StreetNewsReporter

Spencer Hyde is ready to have a big weekend at zMAx. He has a new sponsor on the side of his Head Racing Funny Car for the event. View the full article

We’re all about made in the USA parts when they make sense, but I’m very well known for saying that crap is crap, regardless of where it comes from. The point being that you should buy the best parts you can afford, regardless of where they come from. There are a lot of great performance parts being manufactured all over the world. But if you are here in the U.S. and wanting to know how your American Made intake manifold stacks up against some import models, check out this dyno testing video where a few intakes are being bolted onto a small block Chevrolet to see which one comes out on top. Will the cheap import keep up with the Made in the USA model? Let’s watch and see how this mild small block build responds. Video Description: In this video we dyno test carbureted dual plane intake manifolds. We compare USA made to a foreign made cheap knock-off. Blue Collar Dyno Mule engine specifics: Stock bottom end small block Chevy. 9 to 1 compression Stock Vortec cylinder heads. NO porting. Hydraulic flat tappet camshaft. 235 / 237 duration @ 0.050 0.489 / 0.489 lift 112 LSA installed 4 degrees advanced. Stock stamp steel rocker arms 750 “double pump” carburetor 1-5/8 primary 3” collector full length dyno headers. The post Dyno Testing Dual Plane Intake Manifolds: Made in the USA vs Cheap Import Knockoffs – How Do They Compare? appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

The Royal Enfield Continental GT remains one of the few modern motorcycles that genuinely lends itself to customization. Its straightforward architecture, classic proportions and honest 648 cc parallel twin make it an easy canvas, but creating a masterpiece is still the work of the painter. Thi... View the full article

A Worthy Successor Say what you will about Nissan being in a precarious spot, but an injection of excitement might be just what the doctor ordered to get the brand back on track. Obsessed with its heritage and with a desire to relive its glory days, the Silvia is the only car that's left from the golden era of Japanese performance that got stuck in time. News of the next-generation Silvia has been going around, and it appears that Nissan's current President, Ivan Espinosa, can't stop talking about it. It seems that Nissan is excited about the prospect of going toe-to-toe with Toyota, Subaru, and Mazda in the space. Unfortunately, the SR20DET and all of Nissan's SR variants were discontinued years ago. The Silvia was discontinued by Carlos Ghosn to prioritize the Z and the GT-R, and we have not seen another SR motor since. Whether it was due to profitability or emissions, Nissan never gave us a clear answer for why another performance four-cylinder turbo engine never came to be. Even if that is the case, a look into the company's portfolio reveals a few candidates that might make it to the new Silvia with a few tweaks. Nissan The Criteria When it comes to the Silvia, we're looking for a few things. Number one is the engine's ability to be turbocharged, which we're hoping Nissan will continue to offer. Historically, pretty much every S-chassis generation had a turbocharger at its top-of-the-line trim, except for U.S. market 240SXs. If we're to go by old rumors, the engine must also be ready for electrification. Nissan's current president once stated that the brand is considering electrifying the Silvia. Though nothing is set in stone, it's a possibility that we're incorporating into our criteria. Next, the engine has to be modular. If you look at the history of the SR series of engines, you will note that it found its way into other nameplates like the X-Trail (Rogue), Pulsar, and Sentra. It makes sense given how Nissan does things. Think back to the 350Z and how it had the same powertrain as the Murano. You also don't have to look far, either, because the Nissan GT-R's VR series trickled down to the likes of the new Nissan Z (VR30DDTT) and the Nissan Armada (VR35DDTT). It's safe to assume the new Silvia will come with an engine tweaked from an existing line already in service. Lastly, the DDT at the end of every engine code has to be (or ideally should be) in the name, and it should have a hybrid or e-Power variant. That means that the engine is dual-overhead-cam, direct-injection, and turbocharged. Taking this all in and narrowing things down, we have two prime candidates. Note that these are our best guesses, not facts. Nissan KR Series K-swap, anyone? Kidding. Nissan has a K family of engines of its own, and if you look at the applications and variants of this family of motors, you will find that there are some very viable candidates in the lineup. Take the KR15DDT, a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder that is found in the fourth-generation X-Trail. It also has Variable Compression technology and is e-Power ready, meaning it's a hybrid. It's featured on nameplates such as the fourth-generation Nissan X-Trail e-Power and (more notably) the Nissan Aura RS Concept, which was unveiled at the 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon. The Aura Nismo RS concept uses an upgraded KR15DDT, and on its own, it makes 142 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. With its front and rear motors, however, it produces a combined 211 hp and 243 lb-ft of torque. Given that the Silvia has to be rear-wheel drive, the KR series might be a bit of a stretch unless Nissan plans to mount this motor transversely and rely on an electric motor at the back. Nissan could use the Nismo RS concept's rear motor, which makes 134 hp and 144 lb-ft of torque on its own. Either that or Nissan can stick the front motor at the back, which makes 201 hp and 243 lb-ft of torque. Perhaps Nissan could consider upgrading the motors, since 201 hp nowadays feels a little underwhelming compared to the competition. If Nissan goes with an e-Power setup, I fear that the new Silvia will lose the mechanical feel that many enthusiasts crave. The other concern with going e-Power is which transmission Nissan will use. It's likely the direct-drive transmission from the X-Trail and the Aura Nismo RS Concept will be used, but I hope a manual transmission will always be an option. N MR Series Now, here is what I believe is the most likely candidate that I'm most biased toward, the MR series. As a successor to the SR series of motors from Nissan, I think this could be it, or at least the series I prefer. In terms of application, technology, and pedigree, this could be the series the new Silvia will pull from – or I could be totally wrong. Historically, the MR series has supported hybrid technology, as with the MR20DD Hybrid (series-parallel hybrid) and S-Hybrid (mild-hybrid). While it isn't an e-Power system, both are found in the previous-generation X-Trail Hybrid and the previous-generation Serena S-Hybrid. I can imagine that either may work out for the next Silvia. Also, the MR series can be turbocharged, and the most famous coupe to use a turbocharged MR-series engine is actually not a Nissan; it's the Alpine A110. See, Nissan has an alliance with Renault, which co-developed the MR series, and if Alpine thinks the MR18DDT is good enough for its flagship sports car, then dang it, Nissan could consider the same thing for its entry-level offering. Power-wise, the MR18DDT makes about 222 to 296 hp and about 221 to 310 lb-ft of torque on its own. From the archives, I managed to unearth an older article stating that the next Silvia engine could be a Renault-sourced unit. How cool would it be for that scoop to come true after 20 years? However, while the series has a performance pedigree, its hybrid tech is on the older side. We haven't seen a hybrid MR-series engine since Nissan went all-in on e-Power technology. Alpine Cars The LineupNissan could go with the lineup they had with the S15 Spec R and Spec S, or with the Jack's, Queen's, and King's scheme like the S14. The question is: if Nissan is dead serious about hybrid performance, will it be for the top-of-the-line trim, the base-model trim, or standard throughout the lineup? I see it going either way. The thing is, there is no explicit confirmation just yet about what type of electrification Nissan will be doing to the Silvia, so whether it's mild-hybrid, series-parallel, or e-Power, we don't know yet. The MR series is viable. It can be turbocharged and fitted with a series-parallel or mild hybrid system. Personally, this would be my pick, considering that it's in the Alpine A110 and, even as an MR18DDT, it delivers upgraded SR20DET levels of power, and Nissan can probably afford to bore it out up to 2 liters. The one thing holding it back is that its hybrid tech is outdated, and given the current push for Nissan's e-Power technology, that's a point against it. Also, only a few Nissan vehicles still run on the MR engine, such as the Nissan Kicks non-e-Power. Considering that Nismo's been having a lot of fun with e-Power lately, I think the KR series of engines will be Nissan's ace up its sleeve. Perhaps bore it out to 2.0-liters, slap a turbocharger on it, and make sure that there is a proper transmission between it and the driven wheels, and it'll probably be good. It's also an engine platform that's still in production and widely used across multiple Nissan platforms. Or why not both? Historically, the Nissan Silvia has been offered with many factory engine options throughout its life – whether we're talking about CA, SR, or KA series. It wouldn't be impossible for Nissan to go with an MR and KR mix, with the MR serving as the top-of-the-line enthusiast-spec while the KR stays at the entry-level – or vice versa. Will it make sense to have a turbocharged hybrid Silvia? Yes, and no. Yes, because if the R36 GT-R Hybrid rumors are anything to go by, then the Silvia would make sense, giving enthusiasts a peek into what the next Godzilla can deliver. However, it wouldn't make sense given the current lineup, considering that the Z has yet to adopt any form of performance electrification. If I were Nissan, I'd keep things simple. No hybrid powertrain just yet. Just keep it turbocharged. At the very most, give us a mild hybrid, but I don't think e-Power really fits the ethos of a Silvia; I'm open to the possibility. Finally, I certainly hope that regardless of what engine family Nissan goes with, a manual transmission will be available. I hope Nissan continues to put manual transmissions in its cars in the future, just like it did for the Z Nismo after numerous requests. Ideogram/Sebastian Cenizo View the full article

This weekend the NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series will be running the only four-wide national event of the season, and the unique event will provide 2025 NHRA Rookie of the Year, the opportunity to promote The Caine Group with a specialty wrap on his 12,000-horsepower Nitro Funny Car. Last year Hyde met executives from The Caine Group at zMax Dragway and over the past year the Canadian driver from Stratford, Ontario, has built a positive relationship that has led to this exciting opportunity. The company is owned by Jim and Janet Russell who named the company after their late son Caine who was a huge drag racing fan. “We met with the folks from The Caine Group during the race and after the race we came back to North Carolina and spent some time getting to know them,” said Hyde, who recently raced to the final round at the NHRA Arizona Nationals. “They have a lot going on in North Carolina and they wanted to support our Funny Car team, so we worked out a deal for them to be the primary sponsor for this weekend’s 4-Wide Nationals. They have been fans of the NHRA for a while and recognize what a family friendly sport this is, so it was a great fit.” The Caine Group joins Outlaw Light Beer as new additions to the Head Contractors and Engineers Funny Car driven by Hyde for the 2026 NHRA season. As the reigning NHRA Rookie of the Year and lone full-time Funny Car driver from Canada Hyde has continued to raise his profile with marketing partners as he enters his second year of full-time professional racing.“We are constantly talking with people and companies about the benefits of the NHRA. We both run family-owned businesses, and this was a win-win for both groups,” said Hyde. “This season is off to a good start on the track, and we are looking forward to more exciting announcements off the track. Jim is a great team owner and crew chief, so this Funny Car is going to go rounds and we want to make sure we are giving our marketing partners both old and new the best bang for their buck.” Hyde and The Caine Group Funny Car will have four qualifying sessions to secure one of the 16 top spots on the qualifying ladder this weekend at zMax Dragway. The first two qualifying sessions will be held on Friday at 5:00 p.m. and 7:45 p.m. and on Saturday Hyde will have two more chances with runs at 12:50 p.m. and 3:20 p.m. The final eliminations of the NHRA 4-Wide Nationals will get underway Sunday, April 26 at 12:00 p.m. For information on tickets or the race schedule visit www.nhra.com. The post Spencer Hyde Set to Rep The Caine Group at NHRA 4-Wide Nationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Financial Reality Behind ElectrificationProducing a broad electrified lineup to meet various market demands isn’t as simple as it sounds; factors like development costs come into play, with BMW even allocating resources to retool its century-old German factory to support electric vehicle production. Where there is a problem, though, companies will try to find a solution, and Horse Powertrain says its new “all-in-one” powertrain is designed to help automakers streamline that process. Horse Powertrain, a U.K.-based powertrain supplier backed by Renault and Geely, is set to unveil a product called the X-Range C15 Direct Drive at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show. It is a hybrid powertrain engineered to be integrated into an existing all-electric vehicle platform, which, on paper, means automakers could use a single set of EV underpinnings for a broader electrified lineup – including BEVs, HEVs, PHEVs, and REEVs – without the significant changes that typically drive up costs. Horse Powertrain Rewriting the EV PlaybookThe new X-Range C15 Direct Drive features a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine available in naturally aspirated form for smaller vehicles and a turbocharged version for larger ones. The NA setup produces 70 kW (95 horsepower), while the turbocharged variant delivers 120 kW (160 horsepower), around 20 hp more than the U.S.-spec Toyota Corolla Hybrid. The engine is integrated into a single housing with the transmission and two electric motors. One acts as a generator, while the other is connected to the transmission’s output shaft. The setup allows the motor to drive the wheels on its own in a series-hybrid configuration – similar to a range-extended EV – and to work with the engine to deliver additional power. The standard configuration is rear-wheel drive, though automakers can opt for all-wheel drive by adding another electric drive unit to the front axle. Horse Powertrain Flexibility by DesignSpeaking about the flexible hybrid powertrain, Matias Giannini, Horse Powertrain CEO, said, “The X-Range family of powertrains is about reflecting today’s market realities, allowing automakers to pivot from BEVs to hybrids and range extenders on a single platform, quickly and at scale.” As mentioned, Horse Powertrain will showcase the X-Range C15 Direct Drive at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show, which runs from April 24 to May 3. It will also give the company an opportunity to attract more stakeholders by highlighting other products, including its hybrid engine concept, the H12, which is claimed to deliver up to 71.3 mpg under WLTP testing. That figure would likely be lower under EPA standards, though for reference, the Toyota Prius is rated at an EPA-estimated 57 mpg. View the full article

Four New Chinese Audi ModelsGermany automaker Audi just signed a new strategic cooperation agreement with Chinese SAIC Motor, which will result in the joint development of a next-generation Advanced Digitized Platform (ADP) for new electric vehicles. ADP, which will launch exclusively in China, will spawn four new AUDI models in the coming years. AUDI As a reminder, Audi launched a sub-brand in China called "AUDI," which began selling its first model called the E5 Sportback. Earlier this year, the E5 was awarded the Chinese Car of the Year based on its unique style, impressive 478-mile range, and premium quality. Audi has not announced what these four now ADP-based models will be, but we imagine they will have fairly unique styling, like the E5. AUDI Is Growing In China Audi The AUDI brand already followed up on the E5's success with a second model called the E7X, a large SUV. Despite its substantial proportions, the E7X Audi says this model is geared towards "no compromise" rear seat comfort and in-car entertainment, meaning it will likely be a five-seater rather than a three-row vehicle like the Q7. Audi is hoping the E7X will be a sales hit in China, as the E5 didn't have the smoothest launch despite its critical success. Early bugs caused issues when charging, resulting in disappointing sales numbers for the E5. Audi Embraces China Audi's ADP architecture in the E7X is highly impressive by American standards, as it supports 900-volt charging at up to 400 kW speeds. Only a handful of EVs sold in the United States can match that, such as the upcoming BMW i3 and iX3 as well as the Porsche Cayenne Electric. There are no plans to bring any Chinese-built Audi models to North America, as tariffs would likely make them prohibitively expensive. Here in the US, American automakers have lobbied against bringing Chinese cars into the market, on the grounds they can not compete with them on price. View the full article

Some tracks just belong to certain people. For Fletcher Cox, Darana Motorsports Park in Benson, North Carolina, is shaping up to be that track. It was here that the former Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle claimed his first-ever Pro Street victory when the rain-delayed PDRA event at Bristol Dragway was completed in Benson. And it was at the same strip this past weekend, at another weather-delayed race (this time the PDRA Carolina Nationals), that Cox went back and did it again. The win was no fluke. Cox came into the weekend riding serious momentum, having already captured the Drag Illustrated Winter Series Pro Street championship and the World Series of Pro Mod victory in Pro Street. Cox is no longer sneaking up on the competition, yet he and his team continue to deliver. “My first career win here in Pro Street, obviously – my second one here,” Cox said after the final. “PDRA is the best, by the way. We can’t thank them enough. But man, my team is the greatest. Everybody worked their butt off all week.” The weekend wasn’t without its challenges. Cox noted the team was shorthanded while trying to complete two events in one weekend, an obstacle to overcome that showed exactly what kind of culture he’s building around his operation. “We’re short a guy, and we’ve all been busting balls, including myself, but it’s been fun,” Cox said. “The mojo is just keep going.” That mojo doesn’t come from nowhere. It’s the byproduct of a program Cox has stacked with real talent, starting at the top. Veteran tuner and current NHRA Funny Car crew chief Phil Shuler is the leader for Killin’ Time Racing’s tuning program behind Cox’s “Training Day” ‘69 Camaro, proving just how seriously Cox is taking this second career. “I just can’t be proud enough for this team,” Cox said. “We just keep going at it, keep going at it, and just taking this momentum on and hopefully carrying it to what we have next.” And what comes next is significant. Cox confirmed after the win that the Carolina Nationals was likely his last time behind the wheel of “Training Day,” at least for now. He turned over the driving duties to longtime grudge racer Andy Mac, who made it to the final round in his debut at the PDRA East Coast Nationals, and who will continue to run for a PDRA Pro Street championship this season. Cox won’t be leaving the driver’s seat, however – he’s simply stepping up to the next level. “I believe today was my last day driving ‘Training Day,’” said Cox. “I say my last day, but who knows. I may wheel it down the road. But for now, I’m handing the wheel to Andy and giving him a chance to run for a championship.” Cox’s next challenge will be the world of PDRA Pro Boost with his screw-blown ’69 Camaro named “Fixed Income.” Cox, Shuler, and the KTR team are targeting a debut at the upcoming PDRA Mid-Atlantic Showdown at Virginia Motorsports Park, with plans to test the new car in the weeks leading up to it. The move is a natural escalation for a competitor who’s proven he can win at every level he’s entered. “With me moving into Pro Mod and Pro Boost, we should debut the car in Virginia,” Cox said. “Me, Phil, and the whole KTR team, we’re trying to put a plan together so we can come out running up front.” The world of Pro Boost is about as hard as it gets in drag racing today, where Cox will line up against names like Jason Harris, Melanie Salemi, Ty Tutterow, and Steve King. That’s exactly the kind of environment where Fletcher Cox tends to thrive. And with Phil Shuler in his corner, he’s walking into that environment with a fighting chance. The post Fletcher Cox Turns PDRA Pro Street Exit Into a Victory Lap first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

A Time For ExperimentationThe '60s were an interesting time for the automotive industry; this was the era when multiple household brands solidified their reputations and market positions. It was also during this time that multiple brands began to sprout out of the woodwork, trying to find their niche and offer experimental products. Some of those brands produced decent cars but didn't survive beyond a short production run. One such brand and car known as the Bill Thomas Cheetah was supposed to take on the likes of the Shelby Cobra, but only a few were ever made – and one surviving unit just sold for a pretty penny. Bring-a-Trailer View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Cobra KillerCalifornian Engineer Bill Thomas is the man behind the Cheetah. He built up his resume by racing Corvettes throughout the '50s and eventually founded Bill Thomas Race Cars. In 1960, he secured a partnership with Chevrolet's performance division to use C2 Corvette parts to build his own car. Bill had his eyes set on taking on the Shelby Cobra, and he was able to build the Cheetah in partnership with famed fabricator Don Edmunds. One of the revolutionary things about the Cheetah was the layout they used; the engine was pushed so far back into the chassis that the layout was designated as a front-mid engine for better weight distribution. This also meant that the driver and passenger were pushed further back, effectively sitting on the rear axles. The Cheetah was powered by the famous Chevrolet 327 cubic-inch 5.4-liter Corvette V8, with power ranging from around 375 to 500 hp, depending on the tune and build. It was also extremely lightweight, weighing only 1,500 pounds. Around Daytona, it was clocked at 215 mph, which, for the time, was brisk, especially for a small-block V8. Bring-a-Trailer Up in FlamesAs much promise as the Cheetah presented, a fire tore through the production workshop that built it. Only 19 of the 23 promised cars met full production specs. One of them just sold for $520,000 on Bring-a-Trailer. What's surprising about this car is that, according to the listing, work began after the workshop fire, making this a survivor and rare. The car itself was delivered to the owner without an engine; later, it was equipped with a 377 cubic-inch Chevy V8 with mechanical fuel injection. Bring-a-Trailer View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The City Car That FadedThe Smart ForTwo once seemed like a practical solution for crowded cities. Its size made parking simple, and it stood out as a niche choice. European buyers took to it, but in the US, it struggled. Most Americans preferred larger, more flexible vehicles, and the ForTwo’s drawbacks were tough to overlook. Even so, the ForTwo built a name for itself as an efficient city car. That image stuck with Smart for years, even as the market moved toward crossovers and SUVs. Smart joined that shift, launching models like the #1 and #3, and eventually moving away from the small-car formula that made it unique. Smart stopped making the ForTwo in 2022, ending a run of over twenty years. Still, the idea of a small two-seater never fully went away. Now, Smart is returning to that concept – not with a direct copy, but with a new take. The #2 is meant to carry on where the ForTwo left off, and the Concept #2 gives us the best look so far at what’s coming. Smart A Concept That Leans Into Design as IdentityThe Concept #2 is clearly a city car, but the design feels more deliberate this time. It keeps the compact shape, but the lines are smoother and the surfaces look more refined than earlier models. The matte white and gold two-tone paint stands out right away. It gives the car a softer, more lifestyle-focused, fashion-led look instead of a purely practical one. Smart paid attention to the details, adding strap-like features, subtle textures, and finishes that feel more like accessories than standard car trim. Other elements, including the wheels, match the same approach. The design is simple but not boring, with details that become more noticeable the longer you look. Smart says it’s a mix of function and style, and that's evident in how the car stays clean while still standing out. Sketches of the car back up this direction. The #2 looks wide for its size, with rounded shapes and a stance that feels more confident than the old ForTwo. It still looks friendly, but now it seems more purposeful and less like a toy. Smart What Smart Has Confirmed So FarSmart has started to share what the project means beyond just design. The Concept #2 is the first real move toward a production car that will slot below the current models. It will be fully electric and use a platform made for small city cars. Smart plans to show the concept at its global brand event, then bring it to a bigger stage at Auto Beijing 2026. At the same time, the brand will reveal the #6 EHD, a fastback sedan that shows how much the lineup is expanding. The #2 is expected to launch in late 2026, with key markets to follow. It won’t replace Smart’s current SUVs, but will sit alongside them. Smart is aiming to offer both small city cars and larger, more traditional models again. It’s still unclear if a small two-seater can succeed in today’s market. But Smart is ready to try again, this time with a stronger design focus and a fully electric setup. Smart View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The Next Phase of Self-DrivingThere has been a lot of discussion about the advancement of autonomous driving, especially now that it no longer feels as foreign as it did a few years ago. Some of the most common hurdles are cost, due to the added components such as sensors and cameras, and the legal framework, which is still trying to determine who is at fault when a fully autonomous vehicle hits a pedestrian. Still, that has not stopped automakers from continuing to develop their autonomous systems, and Nissan’s next-generation ProPilot system could mark progress toward wider adoption. The Drive was in Japan to test the system, which is being labeled L2++ for legal reasons, despite being considered Level 4-capable in self-driving technology. Initial impressions were highly positive after a roughly 40-minute drive around Tokyo. Nissan Built to See EverythingThe ProPilot system was fitted to a Nissan Ariya, a more premium electric vehicle positioned above the Leaf, which was discontinued in the U.S. after the 2025 model year. The test vehicle is said to be equipped with 11 cameras, five radar units, and LiDAR. According to the publication, the ProPilot-equipped Ariya performed well even in complex situations, including a construction zone that reduced traffic to a controlled one-lane, two-way flow. The test vehicle also managed to navigate the area without issue, even with a cement truck backing up nearby. One observation, however, is that the EV prioritized safety during the drive. In one instance, the EV yielded to a pedestrian even in the absence of any immediate danger. Whether that is a good or bad thing is ultimately up to interpretation. Tetsuya Iijima, Nissan’s Executive Chief Engineer for adaptive safety systems and software-defined vehicles, said that only Tesla and Wayve are at the level ProPilot is aiming to compete at. Nissan Making It Make SenseNissan is reportedly set to launch the ProPilot system in 2027, initially in Japan with the new Elgrand van. The automaker noted that other markets will follow “as soon as possible.” It will be interesting to see how Nissan approaches the market with this system, especially given that pushing Level 2 driver assistance to this level remains challenging. BMW even dropped its Personal Pilot L3 system on the 7 Series because demand was too low to make it profitable. One reassuring note, however, is that Iijima said the automaker plans to offer it at a “reasonable price” to support mass adoption. Nissan View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A Global FirstBack in 2022, things were heating up in the EV segment. Suddenly, consumers were taking notice and were willing to experiment more with the alternative mobility powertrain. In response, all major car manufacturers kicked into high gear by announcing and introducing dedicated battery electric (BEV) models and nameplates. Jeep's first global BEV was named after the brand's legacy Wagoneer series and was the more sustainable and eco-friendly version. The Wagoneer S was launched in 2024 and has become the brand's sole EV offering in the US – at least until the Recon starts arriving in showrooms this summer. Jeep Playing it SafeInitial reception of the Wagoneer S was strong, with Jeep selling over 6,200 units in North America by mid-2025. This achievement was underscored by the fact that the launch edition models began deliveries only in December 2024. Since the market has slowed and cooled on EVs, the Wagoneer S hasn't sold as much as it used to. Jeep is planning to regroup, according to a report by Automotive News. The company plans to hold off on introducing a 2026 Wagoneer S. Parent company Stellantis says it is pacing production of the all-electric SUV to incorporate improvements in battery performance, software, and capability. Part of the plan is to resume production by 2027, which will be done at the Toluca, Mexico, facility. In an official statement, a Stellantis representative told the publication, “The Jeep brand will forgo a 2026 model‑year designation in North America as we prepare to debut the 2027 model year Jeep Wagoneer S, which will introduce full compatibility with the North American Charging Standard charging port to expand customer access to growing fast‑charging networks.“ Chase Bierenkoven Status QuoIn the meantime, Jeep will continue to sell the 2025 model through dealerships without interruption. The Wagoneer S is built on Jeep's STLA Large Platform, specifically to handle electric powertrains while adhering to Jeep's capability standards. It was launched as one of the most powerful Jeeps ever, with over 600 hp and a 0-60 mph time of around 3.4 seconds. Its design has also made use of aerodynamics, making it more energy-efficient than the more boxy design of the regular Wagoneer. Currently, the EV market has slowed, and the Wagoneer S just sold 175 units in the first quarter of 2026. View the full article

Fresh off a historic championship season, reigning NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle World Champion Richard Gadson is continuing to make an impact far beyond the racetrack. The rider of the RevZilla/Mission/Vance & Hines Suzuki is once again partnering with Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS), welcoming groups of “Bigs” and “Littles” to six NHRA national events throughout the 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series season. This marks the third consecutive year of Gadson’s initiative, which provides BBBS participants with behind-the-scenes access to professional drag racing while reinforcing the power of mentorship and perseverance. The six races included in this year’s program are: NHRA 4-Wide Nationals, Charlotte, NC, April 25 Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals presented by PEAK, Chicago, IL, May 16 Cornwell Quality Tools NHRA U.S. Nationals, Indianapolis, IN, September 5 NAPA Auto Parts NHRA Midwest Nationals, St. Louis, MO, October 3 Texas NHRA Fall Nationals, Dallas, TX, October 17 NHRA Las Vegas Nationals, Las Vegas, NV, October 31 Gadson’s connection to BBBS is deeply personal. As a former “Little,” he credits the organization with helping to shape his path. He first launched this trackside initiative at his home race, the 2024 Pep Boys NHRA Nationals in Reading, Pennsylvania, the closest event to the BBBS Independence chapter that supported him growing up.In 2025, that same chapter honored Gadson with its prestigious Little Achievement Award, recognizing a former Little who has gone on to accomplish extraordinary success while continuing to give back. Just days later, Gadson etched his name in history by winning his first NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle world championship, becoming the first Black rider to do so. This weekend’s NHRA 4-Wide Nationals in Charlotte will mark Gadson’s first in-person interaction with a BBBS group since securing that milestone title. “Having Big Brothers Big Sisters back at the track means everything to me,” said Gadson. “This program isn’t just something I do, it’s part of who I am. I was in their shoes once, so being able to share this experience with them now, especially as a world champion, is really special.” Gadson noted that his message to the group has evolved alongside his career. “Before, I was talking to them about chasing their dreams and what could be possible,” said Gadson. “Now I get to show them what that looks like in real life. It’s gone from aspirational to inspirational, and that’s a responsibility I take seriously.” The Charlotte event also brings a bit of added excitement. With his victory at the season-opening AMALIE Motor Oil NHRA Gatornationals in Gainesville, Florida, Gadson has qualified for the Mission #2Fast2Tasty Challenge, set for Saturday, April 25, when the BBBS group will be in attendance. “They’ve definitely been a good luck charm for me,” said Gadson. “Every time they’re at the track, something good seems to happen, especially in the #2Fast2Tasty Challenge. So I’m really looking forward to having them there on Saturday. Hopefully we can keep that streak alive.” One element of the program that is becoming more formalized this year is other drivers stepping up to participate. Funny Car driver Daniel Wilkerson, Top Fuel driver Jasmine Salinas and fellow Pro Stock Motorcycle rider Jianna Evaristo have also volunteered to talk to the BBBS guests and give them a peek inside of their pits. “I’m thankful to Daniel, Jasmine and Jianna for wanting to get involved,” said Gadson. “The more we can show these kids, the better. Daniel came to me about halfway through last season wanting to get involved, and I jumped at the chance to let the groups see a Funny Car team up close. Over the off-season, Jasmine and Jianna also reached out. It’s been great to see this grow in a really organic way.” As Gadson continues to defend his championship title in 2026, his commitment to mentorship and community remains just as strong as his drive to win, proving that his legacy is being built both on and off the track. For additional information on Richard Gadson follow him on Instagram (@rg5racing) and Facebook (Richard Gadson) and for more information on Big Brothers Big Sisters click here. The post Richard Gadson Launches Year Three of Big Brothers Big Sisters Track Program at 4-Wide Nationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Happy 40th, M3The BMW M3 was built in response to the Mercedes-Benz 190 2.3-16, along with other cars that were taking wins in the world's touring car races. It made its world premiere in 1986, with production kicking off in March. 40 years later, the M3 had evolved significantly. The two-door model had been spun off into the M4, and we now have a Touring model. Power levels are insane next to the original model, too. The E30 M3 had 197 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque (192 hp and 170 lb-ft in the U.S), which is pedestrian by today's standards. Today, the M3 puts out 473 hp and 406 lb-ft, or 523 hp and 479 lb-ft in Competition xDrive form. To put that into perspective, the modern M3 Competition has over 2.5 times more power than the E30 M3. BMW Kicking Off CelebrationsUnsurprisingly, BMW has kicked off celebrations for the M3. The BMW Museum is putting more of those cars on display, and inevitably, there will be special edition models. Oddly enough, it's China that's getting the first of the country-specific 40th-anniversary models. That's mainly because China didn't get the M3 until the E90/E92 generation from 2008. The BMW M3 Edition 40 Jahre will make its public premiere at the 2026 Auto China. It will be displayed with the upcoming 2027 i7 and 7 Series, so the German automaker will be quite busy this weekend. It'll be available in both sedan and touring guises, with only 20 examples of each made. BMW What It PacksIt's easy to dismiss these cars as merely cosmetically enhanced versions of their regular counterparts. The thing is, these Edition 40 Jahre models are based on the xDrive Competition models, so that's a good thing right out of the bat. The best part is, the M Driver's in included in these limited-run cars, raising the top speed from 155 mph to 180 mph for the sedan and 174 mph for the Touring. For the sedan, BMW drew on its back catalog for the color. It's draped in Laguna Seca Blue, something normally associated with the E46 M3. As for the Touring, it was painted in a special Individual color called Wildberry Red. The wagon's wheels are then finished in Crimson Copper. Of course, the interiors get special touches, too, and there's a smattering of 40 Jahre labels everywhere from the roof to the center console. We can expect more major markets to launch their respective Edition 40 Jahre versions later this year. In the meantime, we wait, not just for this limited-edition model but also for the next generation. BMW BMW View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Cadillac’s Sportier EV PlayCadillac has built a competitive electric vehicle lineup, helping it claim the top spot in the U.S. luxury EV market last year. One of the most intriguing models in the brand’s EV range is the Optiq-V, a performance-oriented compact luxury crossover that can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds in Velocity Max mode. Beyond performance, Cadillac is also offering Optiq-V buyers a limited styling package called the Magnus Launch Edition. According to GM Authority, it is now arriving at dealerships and is available for purchase. The package adds interior and exterior design elements and is produced in extremely limited numbers, offering a sense of exclusivity for buyers who manage to secure one. Cadillac More Than Just FastThe Magnus Launch Edition features a Magnus Metal Frost exterior finish, a color exclusive to the package. It is paired with blue brake calipers – with the front set wearing the V-Series logo – housed behind 21-inch alloy wheels finished in Satin Graphite. Enhancing its performance-inspired look further is a carbon fiber package that includes a genuine carbon fiber front splitter, mid-spoiler, and rear diffuser. The blue motif continues inside with the Santorini Blue interior package set against a Noir (black) cabin. Again, the Magnus Launch Edition is strictly a styling package, so it does not bring any changes to the electric powertrain. The Optiq-V is powered by a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system producing 519 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. It offers an EPA-rated range of 278 miles and can add up to 71 miles in about 10 minutes at a DC fast-charging station. Cadillac Paying for the LookGiven its exclusivity, it is not surprising that the Magnus Launch Edition carries a $10,990 premium. That is added on top of the Cadillac Optiq-V’s $67,300 starting price, excluding destination fees. By comparison, the non-V-Series model starts at $50,900, though the exclusive styling package is not available on those variants. For those who miss out on one, Cadillac is also offering the Optiq Premium Sport and V-Series with the Onyx Package. It adds 21-inch gloss black wheels, Obsidian Chrome mirror caps, and perimeter lighting for the driver and front passenger that illuminates the ground to assist with entry and exit. Production takes place at General Motors Ramos Arizpe Plant, where other all-electric models in the company’s portfolio, such as the Chevrolet Equinox EV and Blazer EV, are also built. Cadillac View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

People have always looked for cheaper and cleaner alternatives to mainstream fuels like gas and diesel, and the automotive industry today offers probably the most diverse lineup of powertrain types that have ever been available at one point in time. Besides the ubiquitous gas and diesel engines and their hybrid and plug-in hybrid derivatives, you’ve got biofuels such as bioethanol or biodiesel, cars that run on Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), all-electric vehicles and even cars that use hydrogen fuel cells and synthetic fuels for propulsion. There also used to be steam-powered cars a century ago, but we’re long past that now. At one point, gas produced by burning wood was another option, and it gained traction especially during World War II when fossil fuels were rationed. Known as “woodmobiles,” these vehicles were fitted with a wood gasification unit that turned wood, wood chips, sawdust, charcoal, coal and even rubber into gas that would then power a combustion engine. How Does It Work?As a reminder of those times and to prove that woodmobiles can still work today if need be, the owner of a Chevy Fleetside V8 'square body' from Finland converted it into a wood gas truck—and has covered over 60,000 miles on wood alone without any issues since. From the video posted on the Jp Prat Projects channel on YouTube, we learn that the vehicle is “very environmentally friendly” when you factor the carbon footprint caused by the entire life cycle of the wood fuel. Of course, you wouldn’t think that by looking at the big chimney installed behind the cab between the gasifier and the filter. Jp Prat Projects / YouTube The former transforms the wood into flammable gas composed of carbon monoxide and hydrogen, while the latter filters the wood gas for tars as well as soot and ash particles. Before going into engine filter, the gas is cooled by the additional radiator the size of a Rolls-Royce Pantheon Grille, and after it comes out of the filter it goes through a mixer that feeds the right amount of air and wood gas into the engine. Inside, the truck looks pretty much standard with the exception of a few additional gauges and buttons. The V8 Pulls as if It Runs on Gasoline Jp Prat Projects / YouTube The 350-cubic-inch (5.7-liter) V8 engine comes from a 1972 Chevy truck and has a compression ratio of 11:1. It has seen some changes, including a different camshaft that’s better suited for wood gas use, while the intake manifold comes from a 1986 Corvette. Interestingly, it takes a while to start the vehicle up—5 to 10 minutes—and one of the required steps in the startup process is to light up the gas coming out of the chimney in order to observe the quality of the gas before directing it to the engine. Once the engine starts, it pulls the gas into itself automatically. Jp Prat Projects / YouTube For those of you who are interested in numbers, this Chevy woodmobile eats about 81 pounds of wood per 60 miles. Mind you, there’s a small inconvenience: given the size of the stove, you need to stop and feed wood into it every 43 miles or so. The owner of the car says the video does not present some “crazy energy hack solution” as the vehicle was built purely for the enjoyment of tinkering, not to pitch wood as an alternative fuel. A new video will follow in a few months to document the wood-burning Chevy truck participation in a 1-mile speed event. That should be fun. View the full article

I know that some of you are screaming already, but the reality is that it’s not like you can’t replace the Chevy with a Ford in this F100 if you buy it and want to “save” it from a fate worse than Chevrolet. It never ceases to amaze me that people think an engine or wheels and tires can completely ruin a vehicle FOREVER. It’s weird that someone put a small block Chevrolet in it, but whatever. Derek at Vice Grip Garage is going to dive into this one and get it out of the field and into the shop. Then he’s doing some upgrades to the small block Chevrolet. Check it out. Video Description: A guy needs to build a unique truck to auction for charity… so in comes this beautiful 71 ford powered by a Circle Track 355 Chevrolet motor! Let’s tear it down and build it back better! Want to be part of a WORLD RECORD PARADE? Join me at the Capitol Cruise in Tulsa! Info and registration at capitalofroute66.com! The post Is This Thing An ABOMINATION or GREATNESS? This Is A Small Block Chevy Powered Ford F100! Installing a HUGE Cam and Engine Refresh With Derek. appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Jr. Dragster racers are always looking for that extra edge. Harmonic dampers have reduced engine vibration and increased consistency. View the full article

The British Auto Racing Club is in full swing for the 2026 racing season as weather in the UK is getting nice. They put on races all over the UK and feature a ton of variety when it comes to race cars and trucks. Yes I said trucks. They race everything from big rigs to minis at these BARC races, so you’re always in for some fun. Check out the racing action from last weekend’s Cadwell Park race as we welcome all kinds of fun machines to the race track again. Video Description: The British Automobile Racing Club makes a triumphant return to Cadwell Park this weekend. Renowned for producing thrilling action, the Lincolnshire venue will see Caterham Motorsport kick-start its 2026 season while the likes of the Classic Touring Car Racing Club and Junior Saloon Car Championship will also be in action. The post British Auto Racing Club Action From Cadwell Park Means Some Cool British Machines Racing Wheel To Wheel and Door to Door! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Dubbin Motorsports heads to zMAX Dragway in Concord, North Carolina, for the NHRA 4-Wide Nationals, the second stop on their 2026 campaign. Making their third appearance at the 4-wide format, the Minnesota-based A/Fuel Dragster team arrives with unfinished business after a razor-thin .005-second first-round loss at the Gatornationals. That losing margin – 30 times less than the blink of an eye – has Kirk Wolf and the Dubbin crew focused and looking for a win at Charlotte. “We just got behind at Gainesville,” said team owner Dean Dubbin. “We lost a couple of runs with a wheelie bar problem in Q1 and smoking the tires in the second session. The car was really aggressive. Clay, and Chase, and the guys made some big changes to get it settled down. It made a good run in round one, but we just came out on the wrong side of a really good drag race. I like where the car is, and I like where the whole team is. Everyone is doing a great job, and we are looking for good things at Charlotte.” The 4-wide format at zMAX Dragway is frowned upon by some drivers, but Kirk Wolf has always enjoyed the strategy-driven part of the race. “We’ve always done well here, and I’ve always enjoyed the 4-wide format,” said Wolf. “The 4-wide format actually works in our favor. As well as this car runs, if I do my job on the starting line, I only need to outrun two of the three other cars to advance – and I like those odds. But you have to be consistent, and other than a few strange occurrences, we have been consistent and fast here.” Team owner Dean Dubbin agreed, “We’ve had a few ‘What the heck was that?’ moments at Charlotte, but for the most part we’ve made good runs. Where you can get into trouble is that this track changes very fast, and you have to keep up with it. It seems to be very temperature sensitive, where it gets good fast, and it goes away fast, so you have to keep a close eye on it throughout the day. It is a challenge that has bitten us a couple of times. We don’t plan on letting it happen this year.” The Dubbin Motorsports A/Fuel Dragster has delivered strong performances at zMAX Dragway over the past two seasons, with Wolf securing competitive qualifying positions while consistently running in the low‑5.20 range. There is no doubt that Kirk Wolf and the Dubbin team are hungry and motivated to have a breakout weekend at the Charlotte 4-wide. “We have a great car, and everyone is performing at a very high level. It’s time to turn that into a win this weekend,” said Wolf. The post Kirk Wolf and Dubbin Motorsports Arrive at zMAX Dragway Motivated and Confident Heading Into the NHRA 4-Wide Nationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Four-Cylinder No MoreFor those thinking of getting a Chevrolet Silverado LT Trail Boss with a base four-cylinder engine, the moment has passed. According to GM Authority, the off-road-oriented version of the full-size pickup could no longer be offered with the 2.7-liter TurboMax four-cylinder engine. The publication reports that about 200 units of the four-cylinder Silverado Trail Boss models remain. After that, that specific pickup version will no longer be available. With that, there's good news and bad news. Chevrolet The Bad NewsBecause the turbo-four option has been discontinued, the base price of the Silverado Trail Boss LT is expected to increase. Exact figures are unknown at the moment, but expect updates to the price lists down the line. Based on the configurator, the TurboMax-powered Silverado LT starts at $62,495. That said, there was no mention of whether the standard Custom Trail Boss will drop the TurboMax engine. It appears it will remain an entry point for those looking for an off-road-oriented full-size pickup for less. But for those who like the niceties from the LT version, you're out of luck. Chevrolet The Good NewsThen again, if you're spending that much on a well-equipped and off-road-ready full-size pickup, you might as well go for the V8, right? Well, it seems that GM might have followed that logic. Once stocks run out, the base engine for the LT Trail Boss will be the 5.3-liter. It'll raise the price, for sure, but hey, standard V8, right? Should Chevrolet stick to current pricing, that means the LT Trail Boss will now start at about $65,000. The 5.3-liter V8 is good for 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. While it has more horsepower over the TurboMax at 310hp, the V8 couldn't match the boosted four's torque, which is at 430 lb-ft. Of course, there are other engine options available. One can order the 6.2-liter V8 with 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. There's also the 3.0-liter Duramax inline-six diesel that makes 305 hp and 495 lb-ft. Chevrolet A New Silverado is ComingThe current Silverado has been around since 2018 and received a facelift for the 2022 model year. That means it's been eight years since we last saw a fully-redesigned Silverado, and we're due for an all-new generation. As we reported previously, the fifth-gen Silverado will start production by October this year. It'll be for the 2027 model year, and major changes are most definitely coming. The timing is just right, too, as the next-gen F-150 isn't due until 2029. Chevrolet View the full article

While EVs for a while got the most attention, with many still skeptical of the powertrain technology, Polaris seems to be splitting the difference with this hybrid side-by-side patent. View the full article

A Winter Storm Warning for central and southwestern Montana is probably coming before the storm hits Wednesday evening, with forecasters in the National Weather Service office in Great Falls signaling a likely upgrade as the system approaches. The current Winter Storm Watch remains in effect for the high mountain zones, alongside a Winter Weather Advisory covering West Yellowstone and the tri-border area with Idaho and Wyoming. The system is expected to bring up to 10 inches of heavy wet snow to higher elevations from the Little Belt Mountains through the Gallatin Range, along with wind gusts reaching 60 mph. Temperatures are forecast to drop sharply, running roughly 25 degrees below mid-April averages. The Watch runs from 6 PM MDT Wednesday through 6 PM MDT Thursday for the high mountain zones, with Judith Basin, Fergus County below 4,500 feet, and the Snowy and Judith Mountains added from midnight Wednesday. Rain To Snow Transition Raises ConcernThe storm is expected to arrive Wednesday afternoon initially as rain, before rapidly transitioning to snow as colder air moves in during the evening hours. That shift is expected to create hazardous travel conditions overnight into Thursday, particularly as wet surfaces freeze and blowing snow reduces visibility. Forecasters warn that visibility could drop below a quarter mile at times, with the combination of heavy snow and wind increasing the risk of downed trees and power lines. Isolated outages across central Montana are possible. Bozeman Pass And I-90 Expected To See Significant ImpactsInterstate 90 over Bozeman Pass, at 5,712 feet, is expected to be one of the most heavily affected travel corridors. The route, a key east to west freight artery connecting the Pacific Northwest and the Midwest, could see rapidly deteriorating conditions Wednesday night into early Thursday. US-191 between Bozeman and West Yellowstone is also expected to be impacted, affecting access to Yellowstone National Park, whose West Entrance sits inside the Advisory area. The park's roads opened for the spring season only days ago. Higher elevation passes across the region may require chain restrictions depending on conditions. Broader Impacts Across Ranch And Fire RegionsIn addition to travel disruptions, the storm arrives during calving season in parts of central Montana, raising concerns for ranching operations in Judith Basin and Fergus counties. Meanwhile, just across the state line in Wyoming's Bighorn Basin, dry and windy conditions associated with the same weather system have prompted a Fire Weather Watch, highlighting sharply contrasting impacts across the region. Timing And OutlookThe heaviest snowfall is expected late Wednesday night through Thursday, with conditions gradually easing by Friday. Updated advisories and warnings will be issued as the system approaches. Officials are advising residents and travelers to monitor forecasts closely and avoid non essential travel during the peak period of the storm. View the full article

Today’s feature is a striking custom café racer built on the iconic BMW R100 platform, reimagined by the renowned Spanish workshop Cafe Racer Dreams as part of its celebrated CRD series. Known as the CRD111, this bespoke machine blends classic BMW engineering with modern craftsmanship and minimalist styling. At its core lies a naturally aspirated 980cc air-cooled flat-twin engine, fed by twin carburetors and paired with a manual transmission and shaft-drive system. The bike reportedly underwent a full strip-down and […] The post Bike of the Day: 1980 BMW R100 – Custom Cafe Racer appeared first on Return of the Cafe Racers. View the full article

Honda's "Bonus Bucks" act as instant rebates and reveal which motorcycles are being pushed hardest right now. View the full article