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Ultimately, at the end of the day, Ryan Blaney said his role regarding pit crew changes at Team Penske is just to support and welcome those who put on the No. 12 uniform each week. This is regarding the change made this week with the demotion of jack man Landon Honeycutt from the Blaney team to the Wood Brother No. 21 driven by Josh Berry. This follows a slow start by the Penske No. 12 pit ...Keep readingView the full article

Keeping it SimpleNot everyone wants or needs a hybrid or EV with a screen for a dashboard. Oftentimes, simplicity is the key, and Lancia had done exactly that with the latest car it had just launched. Meet the Ypsilon Turbo 100, and its specs are so refreshingly simple that it's the kind of car the world needs more of these days. The car is a response to the Italian market's demand for a low-cost subcompact hatchback. According to Lancia, the Ypsilon Turbo 100 was "born from direct customer feedback and analysis of the Italian market." That means uncomplicated mechanics, no electrification, and features you actually need. Lancia Making Them Like They Used ToLancia says a significant portion of drivers (at least in Italy) still prefer manual transmission. So, that's exactly what the company gave the Turbo 100. It's an honest-to-goodness six-speed manual, and there's no other transmission option. The brand says fitting a manual "is a gesture that puts the driver back at the center of the experience." Features-wise, it's actually decently equipped. There's auto headlights, auto climate control, cruise control, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus autonomous emergency braking, stability control, and a barrage of airbags, which are required by EU law. Again, it's offering the essentials that modern consumers expect - nothing more, nothing less. As for the engine, it's a three-cylinder 1.2-liter turbo that makes 99 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque. Aware that this engine will be flogged around tight streets and country roads, the engine received rigorous reliability trials. It consisted of over 30,000 hours on the test bench and more than 1.8 million miles on prototype vehicles. Lancia Cheap and CheerfulThe main headline here, aside from its sheer simplicity and unpretentiousness, is the introductory price. The little hatchback starts at just €15,950, which is roughly $18,800 at current conversion rates. It's not like the base model is barren, either, so there's incredible value here. Not only that, one can drive it home with monthly payments of €99 (approx. $117 per month) for 36 months. That said, other trims are available that add more assists, but even the fully-loaded, sporty-looking Turbo 100 HF Line still costs well below $25,000. Truth be told, this is the kind of car that should come with Fiat badges, but it's nice to see that Lancia is being given the chance to make up for some volume. Given that the brand only has one model (sounds familiar?), it'll need every sale it can make to survive. There are other versions available, of course. For those who'd like an automatic, they'll have to go for the mild-hybrid version, which currently has a special price starting at €19,900 (around $23,500). The Ypsilon is also available as a pure EV with a promo price of €21,950 (just under $26,000). Did we mention there's a rally-bred Ypsilon, too? It actually won its first race fairly recently, so you can say it's got a bit of racing pedigree. Lancia Lancia View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

In the extremely relevant long-haul electric semi space, legacy automaker Volvo has just revealed its offering - the FH Aero Electric’s extended range variant - with a claimed range of 435 miles on a single charge, putting it right up there with the upcoming Tesla Semi and Windrose Electric semi. Volvo Electrifying EngineeringThe primary hurdle for EVs in the commercial sector has always been the brutal trade-off between energy density and weight. In the world of semi-trucks, every additional pound of battery traditionally meant a pound of lost payload. Volvo’s solution is a masterclass in smart packaging. By redesigning the rear electric axle into a more compact e-axle that integrates the motors and a six-speed transmission, engineers freed up enough chassis space to fit a massive 725 kWh battery pack. Volvo Having a payload of up to 28 tonnes and a claimed range of up to 435 miles per charge, it’s a clear indication that electric trucks are no longer relegated to short-range last-mile deliveries. To make a 725 kWh battery usable for real-world trucking operations, charging speed is as critical as range. Volvo has equipped the FH Aero Electric to handle the Megawatt Charging System (MCS). Volvo claims the platform is capable of charging from 20 percent to 80 percent in approximately 50 minutes when connected to a 700kW charger. This timing is intentional, as it aligns almost perfectly with mandatory driver rest periods, effectively neutralizing the downtime argument that has long deterred long-haul carriers from switching away from diesel. Positioning Against the CompetitionWhile the standard Volvo FH Electric was already a leader in regional logistics, the "Aero" variant uses advanced aerodynamics to minimize drag and maximize efficiency at highway speeds, allowing the Volvo to target long-haul trucking competition like the Tesla Semi and Windrose Electric semi. Volvo The entry of a legacy manufacturer into the 400-plus mile club changes the math for global fleets. Volvo brings an established global service network, proven parts availability, and decades of chassis durability data to the table—factors that are often just as important to fleet managers as the electric powertrain itself. Heavy-Logistics EV RoadmapWhile infrastructure seems to be the final hurdle, the hardware is now widely available. We are witnessing a transition where electric trucks are evolving from niche sustainability projects into viable, primary tools for international logistics - both battery electric, as well as hydrogen FCE (Fuel-Cell Electric). The psychological barrier for many operators was the 400-mile mark. Now that Volvo has joined a growing club of manufacturers who have surpassed it, the industry focus will likely shift from "Can it do the job?" to "How fast can we build the chargers?" The potential fuel-cost savings of moving to EV trucking from diesel trucking will prove to be immensely attractive for profit-maximizing businesses. View the full article

A Fragile Supply WebA report from Nikkei Asia says Nissan is using 90 percent less rare-earth metals, including dysprosium and terbium, in the new Leaf than in the original model released in 2010. While this reflects advancements in EV motor technology, the reduced reliance also helps limit exposure to rare-earth export restrictions, particularly in China. China dominates the rare-earth supply chain, and while the U.S.-spec Leaf’s direct exposure is unclear, it is still likely tied to that ecosystem. As EV motor technology improves, reducing reliance on those materials could benefit the U.S. by limiting exposure to potential supply disruptions. Nissan The Original EV EvolvesThe previous-gen U.S.-spec Nissan Leaf was built at Nissan’s Smyrna, Tennessee plant, which currently produces SUV models like the Nissan Pathfinder. However, for the next-generation model introduced last year, production has shifted to Sunderland, England, as demand for the model and EVs in general has cooled in the U.S. Still, the Leaf remains one of the most affordable EVs stateside, alongside models like the Chevrolet Bolt EV. It features a 75-kWh lithium-ion battery and a single AC synchronous motor producing 214 horsepower and 261 lb-ft of torque. The estimated range is up to 303 miles, while a 10 to 80 percent charge via DC fast charging takes about 35 minutes. The Leaf is one of the longest-running mainstream EV nameplates, having arrived even before Tesla launched the Model S in 2013 – a flagship now nearing the end of its run alongside the Model X. That makes the Leaf a strong case study on how far EV technology has come, with the report noting that Nissan aims to keep cutting rare-earth use as development continues. Nissan Cutting Back on Critical MaterialsNissan offers the Leaf with a starting price of $29,990, excluding destination fees. It is now the Japanese marque's sole EV model sold in the U.S., following the discontinuation of the larger, more upscale Ariya after the 2025 model year. Aside from Nissan, General Motors is also working to address its reliance on rare earths. GM, which owns Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC, is taking part in the U.S. administration’s plan, including a $12 billion commitment to stockpile rare earths and other critical minerals. The effort is intended to help protect American automakers from potential pricing and supply chain disruptions. Nissan View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Anyone who’s been hanging out around BANGshift for very long knows I have an affinity for old rv trailers and motorhomes. When I was a kid we had a Roll-a-Long motorhome that was a square body Chevy cab and chassis model like this Open Road, so I have a special place in my heart for these. This one here is a really clean example that has had some love recently, that’s for sure. CLICK HERE TO SEE THE ORIGINAL AD TO CONTACT THE SELLER Here’s the information from the ad. 1972 Chevy C30 Custom Camper – Restored & New Engine Under Warranty! Recently installed new 350ci engine Transferable 3 year/100,000 mile warranty (purchased 11/8/24). Original miles: 104,037. New engine mileage: 2,388. Full 2022 Interior Restoration: New plumbing (fresh and gray tanks/sink), new flooring/walls, 12v vents, and a custom wet bath. Can sleep 5. Modern Comforts: On-demand hot water, ice-cold Dometic A/C, and keyless entry, back up camera. Vintage Style: Original captain’s chairs (re-upholstered), original stove, and even the original CB radio, 2) 16# propane tanks. More pics available. PM for more details or questions. $22,000 The post Vintage RV For Sale: This 1972 Chevrolet C30 Open Road Custom Camper Motorhome Is Retro Greatness! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Kyle Busch did not appreciate the commentary about his season and career trajectory from Denny Hamlin during a segment on the Actions Detrimental podcast on Monday. Hamlin effectively said Busch is one of the greatest of all time, but also felt like Busch needed to solidly outperform teammate Austin Dillon to justify a narrative that the two-time champion is being held back by Richard Childress ...Keep readingView the full article

The carbon fibre-infused Encor Series 1, first revealed late last year, is edging closer to production. And at the 2026 Salon Privé Concours, we finally got to see it in person alongside another Lotus restomod. Based on a donor Lotus Esprit rather than a clean-sheet build, the Series 1 replaces ageing components with modern parts and tech while preserving the character that made the original iconic. With just 50 hand-built units planned and a starting price of around £430,000 ($580,000), this is a rare and expensive reinterpretation of a true classic. A Tiny Wedge With Pop-Up Headlights Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Seeing it up close really highlights just how small the Esprit platform is. Measuring just under 14 feet long, 6 feet wide, and just over 3.5 feet tall, the Series 1 has a footprint that feels bite-sized by modern standards. Yet the presence is anything but. The original shape, penned by Giorgetto Giugiaro, remains intact, complete with pop-up headlights and that signature wedge silhouette. But the old fibreglass body is gone, replaced by a carbon-fibre shell for added rigidity and weight savings. It even sits on 5-spoke wheels that echo the donor car’s design, tying the whole look back to its roots. Even among other highlights at the event, like the F1-inspired Nichols N1A, the Encor still drew a crowd. Old-School Soul in a Modern Package Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Rather than chasing extreme numbers, Encor has focused on refining the Esprit’s original formula. The rebuilt 3.5-litre twin-turbo V8 produces around 400 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque, sent through an upgraded 5-speed manual gearbox. More importantly, it still sounds like an old V8, retaining that raw, mechanical character. And with a weight of about 1,200 kg (2,645 lbs), it doesn't need a boatload of power to impress. Encor Design claims a 0-62 mph time of 4 seconds flat and a top speed of 175 mph. The chassis has also been refreshed, with upgraded suspension components, Bilstein dampers, and Eibach springs. A Restomod That Gets It Right Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog Adam Lynton/Autoblog The example we saw at the Concours was finished in Liquid Silver paint, with a contrasting Encor Ramsay Blue interior. The cabin's layout stays driver-centric, like the original Esprit, but the materials and execution have been upped a notch. Carbon fibre surfaces, high-quality leather, and a dash of wood on the gear stick keep the interior feeling modern, but not soulless. Even the machined aluminium piece that houses a digital display makes it feel contemporary, but not at the expense of its analogue charm. If Encor Design's goal was to rework the classic Lotus Esprit from top to bottom, they failed. But if they wanted to reimagine it, without disgracing its legacy, they hit the nail on the head. They refined, respected, and modernized the Esprit in a way very few thought was possible. View the full article

Three weeks after starting eliminations at the season-opening KTR Drag Racing PDRA Carolina Nationals presented by Pee Dee Fleet at Darlington Dragway, the Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series crowned its first winners of the 2026 season Thursday night at Darana Motorsports Park – Benson, NC. The series completed the Carolina Nationals eliminations during Thursday testing ahead of this weekend’s Summit Racing Equipment East Coast Nationals presented by FuelTech, the second of seven races on the 2026 schedule. Mike Achenbach (Switzer Dynamics Pro Nitrous presented by Jerry Bickel Race Cars), Johnny Camp (WS Construction Pro Boost presented by P2 Contracting and Ty-Drive), Fletcher Cox (Liberty’s Gears Pro Street presented by KTR Drag Racing), JC Beattie Jr. (PDRA Pro 632 presented by Mark Williams Enterprises), and Connor McGee (1320 Fabrication Super Street presented by Brian’s Heating & Cooling) were victorious in the professional categories. Victories in the sportsman classes went to Bryan LaFlam in MagnaFuel Elite Top Sportsman presented by PAR Racing Engines, Steve Furr in Greenbrier Excavating & Paving Elite Top Dragster presented by American Race Cars, Donald Bean in MagnaFuel Top Sportsman, and Joe Gary in ATI Performance Products Top Dragster presented by TBM Brakes. Ashton Halas and Carter Hayes scored victories in Pro Jr. Dragster and Classic Graphix Top Jr. Dragster, respectively. Halas was quicker off the starting line and ran a 7.901 on the 7.90 index to defeat the 7.916 of Connor Hayes in Pro Jr. Dragster. In the Top Jr. Dragster final, Hayes left first and posted a 12.288 on a 12.27 dial-in to beat Noah Taylor and his 9.081 on a 9.05 dial-in. PRO NITROUS “Mountain Man” Mike Achenbach returned from a brief PDRA Pro Nitrous hiatus in triumphant fashion as he scored his third career win and the first for his new Fulton-powered ’20 Camaro dubbed “Hot Sister.” With nitrous guru Brandon Switzer tuning remotely, Achenbach resumed the Carolina Nationals with a semifinal win over defending world champion Marcus Butner before meeting 2024 world champion Fredy Scriba in the final round. Achenbach left first by .002 seconds and won with a 3.706-second pass to Scriba’s 3.741. “We worked hard with this new car, doing some testing and whatnot, and I knew the car would come around,” said Achenbach, who last won at the 2023 East Coast Nationals. “If you just give Brandon Switzer enough time, and even though he’s not here this weekend, he did his best he could do and it turned out really well. It came around really quick and it’s very rewarding. We tried to give him the best car we could and we’re trying to double-up with this thing. We’re here to win a championship.” PRO BOOST The three weeks and drastic changes in location and weather conditions didn’t seem to bother Johnny Camp and tuner Brandon Stroud, who took the ProCharged “Hells Bells” ’69 Camaro to the Pro Boost win at the Carolina Nationals. When the race picked back up at Darana, Camp threw down a 3.642 to defeat Melanie Salemi in a rematch of last year’s East Coast Nationals final round. He kept it rolling with a 3.613 at 208.94 in the final to beat defending world champion Ty Tutterow and his 3.624 at 208.52. Camp’s reaction times were .013 and .014 in the semis and final, respectively. “Beating the competition that’s out here is always a good feeling,” said Camp, who thanked ProCharger, Pro Line Racing, NGK Spark Plugs, Tatman Electric, and his crew. “It’s the best of the best. We came out of the last race with good momentum, carried us through here. Brandon [Stroud] gets the most out of whatever the track conditions are, and that’s what you’re racing is the track conditions. The race before was stellar air. We made some good licks and got some data and rolled it into this week.” PRO STREET Last fall, retired NFL star Fletcher Cox earned his first career win as a driver in Pro Street at the PDRA Thunder Valley Throwdown, which was rained out at Bristol Dragway and completed at Darana Motorsports Park – Benson, NC during DragWars. His second career win came in similar fashion Thursday night, as he beat Jerry Morgano in the final round of the postponed Carolina Nationals that started at Darlington and wrapped up at Darana. He used a 4.020 to defeat Joel Wensley Jr. in the semifinals, then left on Jerry Morgano and ran a 3.967 at 188.96 in his Phil Shuler-tuned, nitrous-fed “Training Day” ’69 Camaro to beat Morgano’s 3.955 on a holeshot. “My team is the greatest,” Cox said. “Everybody worked their butt off all week. We’re short a guy, and we’ve all been busting balls, including myself, but it’s been fun. The mojo is just keep going. I just can’t be proud enough for this team. We just keep going at it, keep going at it, and just taking this momentum on, and hopefully carry it into what we have next.” After the win, Cox pulled his “9191” car number off the windows and replaced it with a new number for the car’s new driver, Andy Mac, a grudge racer who’s served as one of the key crew members on the car. Cox stepped out of the driver’s seat to focus on driving his new screw-blown “Fixed Income” ’69 Camaro Pro Mod. “I believe today was my last day driving ‘Training Day,’” Cox said. “I say my last day, but who knows, I may wheel it down the road. But this weekend, the main guy that’s been helping, driving the rig, making sure everything’s ready to go besides Phil [Shuler] – I’m handing the wheel over to Andy Mac and giving him a chance to run for a championship with me moving into Pro Mod and Pro Boost. Me, Phil, and the whole KTR team, hopefully we’re debuting ‘Fixed Income’ at the next PDRA event in Virginia.” PRO 632 J.C. Beattie Jr. had a career-best start to the season at the Carolina Nationals when he earned his first career No. 1 qualifier award behind the wheel of his nitrous-fed ATI Performance Products Camaro three weeks ago. When racing resumed at Darana, Beattie earned a confidence-boosting semifinal win over two-time and defending world champion Jeff Melnick with a 4.179 before taking a side-by-side win over Jeff Pittman in the final round. Pittman left first, but Beattie fired off a 4.117 at 172.72 to drive around Pittman’s 4.136 at 171.01. It was Beattie’s first career win in Pro 632 competition. “Well, we had to wait a few weeks, and last time we ran [Jeff] Melnick, the two-time champion, he got us, so I was hoping it was our turn – and it was – to beat him in the semis and then go on to the finals,” said Beattie, who thanked his team, Reher-Morrison, and ATI Performance Products. “We had a goal of qualifying No. 1 and winning a race, and we checked those off quick. We want to double-up with my son [James Beattie III] winning a race in Pro Jr. Dragster. He lost in the semifinals, but we’ll try again starting this weekend, which is great, and I’m going to try to keep on going and take the No. 1 points position a little farther.” SUPER STREET Reigning Super Street world champion Connor McGee admitted the three-week break between the first two rounds of the Carolina Nationals and the completion of the event Thursday night didn’t make it easy on him as a driver, but he showed why his Brian’s Heating & Cooling team won last year’s season title. McGee threw down a 4.626 in the semis to take out championship runner-up Austin Vincent, then unloaded a 4.516 at 158.61 in the final round. McGee didn’t need the near-record performance to get the win, though, as his opponent, 2024 world champion Dan Whetstine, went red by .018 seconds. “It’s super challenging,” said McGee, who credited his team and partners like Brian’s Heating & Cooling, Abby’s Performance, Fulton Racing Engines, Driven Racing Oil, Bucked Up Energy, and Tub O’ Towels. “When you’re at the track for the whole four rounds, you don’t have a lot of time. You’re working in between rounds. If you hurt something, you’re really busy, but even if you don’t, still, the rounds get quicker and quicker. So, to have three weeks, that’s so much time to just sit there and think about every possible scenario. I knew who I had to race next round, and honestly, it’s a tough matchup. Me and Austin [Vincent] have battled for the last two years and it’s always been super close, so to just walk away from that win and then the final-round win, it’s just really rewarding.” TOP SPORTSMAN Elite Top Sportsman reigning world champion Bryan LaFlam kicked off his title defense with the Carolina Nationals win when final-round opponent Jeff Melnick – the two-time and reigning Pro 632 world champion – went red by .003 seconds. LaFlam ran a 3.843 on a 3.80 dial-in in his supercharged Big Stuff TPM ’67 Mustang. A red-light start decided the winner in Top Sportsman 32 as well, as past world champion Joe Roubicek went red by .010 seconds in his nitrous-fed ’68 Camaro, allowing Donald Bean to cruise to the win with a 4.351 on a 4.35 dial-in in his Sunset Beach, North Carolina-based ’01 S10. TOP DRAGSTER Two-time Elite Top Dragster world champion Steve Furr picked up the win in his ProCharged ’13 American dragster in a battle between the No. 2 qualifier and low qualifier Josh Duggins. Furr ran a 3.904 on his 3.90 dial-in while Duggins threw away his chances with a .001 red light and lifted to a 3.989. In the Top Dragster 48 final, Joe Gary left the line first and rolled to a 4.385 on a 4.38 dial-in to defeat JB Donati, who ran a 4.223 on a 4.24 dial-in. This story was originally published on April 18, 2026. The post Achenbach, Camp, Cox, Beattie and McGee Victorious at Postponed PDRA Carolina Nationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Drag racers-turned promoters Gerrell Applo and Michael Walker are bringing a new look to doorslammer racing in 2026, introducing Extreme Doorslammers – a Pro Mod-style, heads-up class with the clocks turned off. The first event of the Extreme Doorslammers season will take place April 24-25 at Cecil County Dragway as part of ‘Blood, Sweat, and Tears.’ The race will also feature a host of radial classes including 275 Unleashed, All-Steel, All-Glass, and 275 Lightweight, as well as a 10.5 Slick class. Extreme Doorslammers will feature nearly $10,000 in payouts, with $6,000 being awarded to the winner, $1,500 to the runner-up, and $1,000 to semifinalists. Teams will receive two shakedown runs prior to eliminations, with pairings being determined by chip draw prior to each round. Boosted combinations will follow PDRA rules, with no weight restrictions placed on nitrous combos. “We’ve created a place not only for ourselves to compete, but for the average Pro Mod racer that can’t necessarily afford to run with the top-tier teams, but can still have a great atmosphere to compete in,” said Applo. “I honestly had no intentions of being a promoter. I just wanted to solve an issue in our geographical area with the big-tire racing industry. I’m hoping this series opens some eyes from the average fans’ and racers’ perspective that these smaller events can definitely pull great attention.” Applo and Walker are each Drag Illustrated 30 Under 30 alumni – Applo in the 2022 class and Walker in 2024 – and both will be competing in Extreme Doorslammers this year in addition to running the series. Applo will pilot his Bad Dog Racing nitrous-fed ’41 Willys, while Walker will run his screw-blown ’68 Camaro. A plethora of Pro Mod veterans are already locked-in for the first race, including Chuck Ulsch, Andy Jensen, Frank Falter IV, Chris Russo, and Derrick Ford, just to name a few – and a large list of others will be joining the party throughout the season. “It’s mind-blowing all the support we’ve received from big-name Pro Mod guys like Todd Tutterow, Jon Salemi, Scotty Cannon, Tommy Mauney, Jim Whiteley, and Tommy Gray,” Applo said. “Whether it’s companies, the racers, team owners, or dedicated fans, it’s kind of overwhelming to see how much support we’ve gotten in such a short amount of time. We are here for a long time, not a short time. We’re just trying to make our staple in this industry known as two of the youngest Pro Modified series owners that also currently race Pro Mods.” The 2026 Extreme Doorslammers schedule will feature six total events. Following ‘Blood, Sweat, & Tears,’ the series will head to Maryland International Raceway (MIR) May 24; Outer Banks Dragway July 10-11, MIR August 1; MIR September 6; and Cecil County September 18-19. This story was originally published on April 18, 2026. The post Gerrell Applo and Michael Walker Set for Debut of Extreme Doorslammers N/T Pro Mod Series first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

If the Bonneville is the heart of Triumph’s modern classic lineup, the Thruxton is undoubtedly its soul. The name itself is steeped in the grime and glory of 1960s endurance racing, specifically the Thruxton 500-mile race, where Triumph’s twin-cylinder machines first proved their mettle. By 1969, th... View the full article

We’ve got more PDRA Drag Racing video from the East Coast Nationals thanks to our friend NC Promoder. In the video below you’ll see PDRA Pro Boost and Pro Nitrous qualifying from Darana Motorsports Park where the East Coast Nationals are underway. If you like Pro Mod racing, and want to see some of the hottest PDRA racers out there, then this is the video for you. The post Drag Racing Video: PDRA East Coast Nationals Pro Boost And Pro Nitrous Qualifying Video. appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

We’ve got live drag racing coming to you from Division 7! It’s Lucas Oil Drag Racing at it’s finest and every pair that goes down the race track is right here live. If you like Sportsman Drag Racing, where wheels-up action is the norm, then this is the racing for you. We’re talking Stock, Super Stock, Comp, Alcohol classes, and more right here from The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Check it out and let us know what you think! Video Description: Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series Division 7 From Las Vegas Motor Speedway Friday on YouTube. https://www.nhra.com/schedule/2026 The post FREE LIVE DRAG RACING: NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series Division 7 Regional From The Strip at Las Vegas Motor Speedway – Saturday appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

We’ve seen some fast cars over the years, and some of them are incredibly impressive, but watching Donkmaster and Boostdoctor mixing it up on 26’s is nuts. The fact that these big money, big power, big wheel machines can haul ass like this is hard to believe. If you haven’t seen this kind of big wheel action before you might not believe it, but these guys are doing things nobody ever thought possible on a tire with this little sidewall. Video Description: Donknmaster host’s the 2026 Carolina Spring Fest car show at Darlington Dragway where Boostdoctor makes his first pass since switching back to 26s for the year. The post BOOSTDOCTOR Invades DONKMASTER’s Big Rim Shootout at Carolina Springfest! First of Race of 2026 And It Was Hot! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

A Neue Way of Building BMWsIt's not just the iX3 and i3 that are being built in a 'cleaner' way. In a bid to pursue its carbon-neutral targets, BMW will be applying its new production methods to other models as well. With that, we can expect more models to use recycled and secondary materials in their construction and to benefit from new, more efficient production methods. This is all part of BMW's commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement and its own goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Mind you, this doesn't necessarily mean the German automaker will only make EVs by that time. Instead, the construction method of its vehicles and the sale of EVs will offset those of hybrids and ICEs. BMW China The i7 LCI Will Be the First After iX3, i3BMW recently announced that the new i7 will be using batteries from Rimac. But aside from that, the Gen6 batteries that the flagship sedan will get will be manufactured exclusively using renewable energy. At the same time, cell production will partially involve secondary raw materials for the lithium, cobalt, and nickel required. BMW believes that going for more recycled and renewable sources can also streamline its supply chain. With fewer sources to tap, less energy will be involved in vehicle production. The company reckons the 2027 i7's carbon footprint will be reduced by as much as 33 percent compared to the Gen5 battery models. BMW New Wheel Design Shows Sustainable ConstructionThere's one part of the new i7 that BMW has officially shown. That would be the new wheel design for the large EV sedan. Okay, it's just one of possibly several wheel options, but it's a start. But aside from showing off the new look, the company is rather proud of how it constructs the wheels. Like the i3 and iX3, the facelifted i7 will use wheels made from secondary aluminum scraps. About 70 percent of the wheel will be made from that material, further reducing the need to source new aluminum and boosting the company's in-house sustainability efforts. BMW Not Just the 7BMW added that its Dingolfing plant has been undergoing changes to support its carbon-zero initiatives. Given that the i7 and 7 Series are made there, there's a good chance the other car being built at that facility will also receive the same treatment. That car is the 5 Series, and the facelifted version of it is also expected to be launched soon. It's been touted to get the new Rimac batteries, and it'll likely get those 'sustainably-made' alloys as well. But, back to the i7 and 7 Series, the heavily facelifted model will be revealed at Auto China 2026. We'll be there when BMW pulls the covers off and tell you more about it soon. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the full article

Lone Star Roundup is one of the premier car show destinations every spring, especially for traditional hot rods and customs. It’s happening as we speak, in Austin Texas, and while the show is only Friday and Saturday, there are a ton of other parties and shows and cruises that happen for the couple of days prior to the show. Since I couldn’t head down to Austin, I’m glad that our friend John Jackson from Not Stock Photo has been there all week shooting cool cars and trucks while hanging out with fellow hot rodders. Check out the video below from Austin Speed Shop’s Lone Star Roundup pre-party and movie night, and make sure that the Roundup is on your list of must attend shows in 2027! Video Description: #LonestarRoundup #HotRod #AustinSpeedShop The best thing about Lonestar Roundup is the week full of parties, and just hanging out. No one is more iconic fr hosting great Lonestar Roundup Parties than Austin Speed Shop. This Year the hosted a Drive in Movie Night at the Shop with free Beer from PintHouse, Great Tacos, and a showing of Two Lane Blacktop. As always just a great hang, and special thanks to Thom from Saltworks Fab for rescuing me in Austin 5pm Traffic after my Fuel Pump Took a Dump haha. Just a quick video the event since my Roundup video will probably wind up being a Hour Long haha Thanks for watching ‪ @NotStockPhoto‬ #Austin #customcars #carculture #driveintheater The post Hot Rod Drive-In Video From Austin Speed Shop: Free Beer and Two Lane Blacktop Playing At The Pre-Lonestar Roundup 2026 Party appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

When I first started working with David Freiburger it seemed like every few days I was finding out about another car, truck, or Jeep that he owned and had stored somewhere. I’d tell you some stories, but you probably wouldn’t believe me anyway. I don’t know how many cars David has owned over the years, but I can tell you that at any given time it has been dozens of cars. And he doesn’t live on some big piece of property with lots of space for a bunch of cars. Quite the opposite in fact. So check out the video below and let us know which one of these cars you most want in your garage? The post Freiburger Has To Sell Some Cars! You Wouldn’t Believe How Many Cars He’s Got, Or How Many He’s Had, But Prices and Descriptions Are Right Here! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

EV Plans Fell Through Sony Group and Honda Motor announced that they will maintain their 50-50 joint venture and pursue other opportunities. On March 25, 2026, Sony and Honda canceled the Afella 1 electric vehicle; however, the two will continue to work together developing other products. Honda's electrification strategy revamp was responsible for this turnout, but fret not, as the two Japanese giants in their industries will continue to work together, albeit chasing other projects, Nikkei Asia reports. The joint venture came at a time when Honda wanted to marry its automotive hardware expertise with Sony's software and game engineering. In a bid to catch up to its industry rivals in the EV space, the Sony-Honda Mobility partnership teased the Afeela 1 model, the joint venture's first product. Sony Honda Mobility The Fallout Honda and Sony's pivot means about 400 employees will likely be reassigned, with the parent firms reportedly working to absorb a portion of each. Reuters stated that they were unable to reach the two firms for further comments at the time of writing. While plans for a complete electric vehicle have fallen by the wayside, Honda and Sony will continue to work together on other projects. As Nikkei reports, both sides in the venture will explore non-EV products and services related to Afeela 1 technologies, including an artificial intelligence assistant and an audio system. Sony Honda Mobility The Door Isn't Completely Shut However, this may be the case for now, seeing as Honda isn't quite as mobile as it once was. A decline in sales, mixed with some catching up, suggests the Japanese brand may need to go back to the drawing board on its core business before making very bold, risky moves. Sources also report that the Sony-Honda Mobility partnership may still produce a fully electric passenger car in the future; however, no such timeline was mentioned or reported. Honda still has a bunch of EVs on the way and several electrified hybrid offerings in the market today, but none as advanced or as bleeding-edge as what some Chinese manufacturers are doing. Even BMW is shifting much of its focus to EVs after pledging to retool its oldest factory to build only electrified passenger cars. The question is, will Honda evolve fast enough, and does it need to? For now, North American markets will have to wait longer for a new Honda EV. The prospect of a Sony-powered entertainment sphere built on Honda bones was a worthy prospect back when the companies first announced their partnership in 2022. After four years, mounting industry pressure has led Honda to scale back, which could further cut into Honda's lead as electrification continues to ramp up in other markets. Sony Honda Mobility View the full article

I headed to Alicante, Spain, for the global launch of the 2026 Triumph Trident 660 and questioned if it had too much power for a first big bike or redefines the category.View the full article

Not Your Average F-350Some builders have chosen to turn the Ford Super Duty into a shortened truck, and one was recently sold on Bring a Trailer. This particular Ford F-350 Super Duty XLT 4x4, dubbed “Supershorty,” stands out for being nearly new, showing just 1,500 miles, and featuring modifications that make the conversion even more compelling. Supershorty comes with a shortened rear frame and a 6.5-foot bed, giving the truck a somewhat disproportionate look. It is paired with a Carli 4.5-inch lift kit with King remote-reservoir shocks and revised springs, along with 18-inch wheels wrapped in 37-inch Toyo Open Country tires. Bring a Trailer A Super Duty That Wants to PlayThis setup should make the truck more engaging to drive, rather than aligning with the Super Duty's traditional workhorse image. In theory, a shorter wheelbase improves agility, and in an off-road context, it enhances trail capability by improving approach, departure, and breakover angles. Perhaps the best part is that the shortened F-350 retains the 7.3-liter “Godzilla” V8, factory-rated at 430 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque. Ford introduced the engine for the 2020 model year as a replacement for the Triton V10, giving Super Duty buyers a newer gasoline option with stronger low-end torque. It is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, an electronic locking rear differential, and 4.30:1 gearing. As an XLT, the truck offers more convenience than the base XL. This example is equipped with heated front seats, black leather upholstery, power-adjustable pedals, remote start, cruise control, and a SYNC 3 touchscreen. Bring a Trailer For Those Who Get ItSuch a build is definitely not for everyone, especially among typical Super Duty buyers. Those looking for a more agile truck may be better served by the Ranger Raptor, which comes factory-equipped with serious off-road hardware, including Fox 2.5-inch Live Valve Internal Bypass shocks. However, the winning bidder clearly has a thing for shortened Super Duty builds. The new owner had already picked up a similar truck with the same model year and trim, also featuring the “Supershorty” conversion, though that example had around 17,000 miles on the clock. In the listing’s comment section, the owner said they enjoyed the way it drove and even claimed it rode “better than any Super Duty on the planet.” This low-mileage example, meanwhile, sold for $60,000, which isn’t too bad considering a brand-new F-350 XLT already starts north of $50,000. Bring a Trailer View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The Reset Strategy Gets RollingInfiniti is pressing ahead with its so-called “product renaissance,” a critical shift as sales slow and rivals like Genesis gain ground. The latest move is the start of all-new QX65 assembly at Nissan’s Smyrna plant in Tennessee, which also builds other crossover models like the Nissan Pathfinder. The plant also assembles the QX60, the midsize luxury crossover on which the QX65 is based. The difference is that the new nameplate is a two-row, coupe-style alternative, much like the pairing of the BMW X5 and X6. This type of vehicle is rarely a brand’s volume seller, but it can add character to the lineup, especially for buyers who prioritize style over practicality. Infiniti A Factory Ready for the Next ChapterIn a press release, Infiniti said it invested in training, tooling, and production processes to support QX65 manufacturing at the Smyrna plant. QX65 production marks nearly 15 years of Infiniti models being assembled there, while also extending Nissan’s presence in Tennessee to more than four decades. Although production has begun, the model won't reach retailers until summer 2026. Power comes from a 2.0-liter VC-Turbo engine rated at 268 horsepower and 286 lb-ft of torque. Infiniti says it delivers a sportier sound while reducing unwanted cabin noise through Active Noise Cancellation and Active Sound Enhancement. The engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system. One of its standout features is the Sunfire Red exterior finish, which incorporates real gold. This gives the paint a color-shifting effect, depending on the viewing angle and lighting. It is one of nine colors available on the MY2027 QX65 and is inspired by the Regal Red introduced on the 2015 Nissan GT-R. Infiniti Slotting Into the SegmentThe all-new Infiniti QX65 starts at $53,990, excluding destination fees. That places it at roughly a $1,000 premium over the Lexus RX, while undercutting the BMW X6, which starts at $77,300. The QX65 follows the launch of the third-generation QX80 in 2024 as part of Infiniti’s broader reset strategy. Looking ahead, the automaker plans to return to the sedan segment with a new Q50 expected to feature rear-wheel drive and a manual transmission, while also preparing for the electric vehicle segment. Infiniti View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Triumph’s Bonneville 350 has been spotted testing in India as GST rules push KTM and others toward smaller engines. View the full article

McLaren has had a tough time over the last few years. Quality was less than stellar, producing too many examples of almost any given product was hurting resale values, and the company's finances were so bad that it had to sell its McLaren Technology Center in Woking and lease the property back. But all that is behind it now, says CEO Nick Collins in an interview with Autocar, and what comes next should make rivals worry. Collins says that McLaren is now debt-free and has "a bold plan to grow" into the sort of luxury brand that the price tags of its cars suggest it is. Let's go through some of the notable highlights of this reinvention plan. McLaren Won't Be the Laughing Stock of the Supercar World Anymore McLaren Collins says that the automaker has "really focused on quality," improving its warranty by 80 percent and its production quality by more than 60 percent. Anybody who's pressed on the dashboard of a 720S and seen and heard it move and creak knows that quality was not always McLaren's strongest suit, and because it was so easy to buy a McLaren, with "too much stock" at dealers, resale values were poor. That won't happen again, and McLaren wants to keep things as simple as possible. "We didn't take decisions fast enough," said Collins. "We didn't make complicated things simple to make things faster. Like a lot of car companies, we have a lot of acronyms, and I believe passionately in plain language." To that end, McLaren has overhauled its internal infrastructure to better leverage new technologies, and it's given its design team—now led by ex-Ford designer Kemal Curic—more room to breathe with a new design studio and full clay modeling studio in Bicester, an upgrade over the small space at the Woking headquarters. This is particularly important. Related: McLaren’s New Hybrid Tech Could Boost Acceleration at Speed Ferrari, Porsche, and Rolls-Royce talk a lot about how customization is key to survival and growth in the luxury sector, and McLaren intends to get up to speed in this realm by growing the McLaren Special Operations division. "We've got incredible craftspeople in MSO, and we want to broaden that offer," said Collins. "We want more people to tailor their cars and increase personalization as a percentage of our total order banks." That includes taking ideas from customers, hinting at the possibility of more special editions and one-offs. McLaren has already hinted at a heritage project to capitalize on nostalgia. McLaren Poised for Growth, F1-Inspired Hypercar Possible Mecum Partly because of investments in EV technologies and being forced to delay or cancel related vehicles, and partly because of global economic turbulence, Collins believes McLaren's rivals are now facing the sorts of challenges that McLaren dealt with last year. "My determination is to grab that opportunity before everybody else has settled their restructures," said Collins. Thus, the next 12 months will be occupied by launching new products and clearly defining the McLaren vision. What those products will be exactly, Collins still won't say, but a McLaren SUV won't be the only new car. As for EVs, those will only come when customers want them, and right now, that's not happening. Collins also spoke about McLaren Automotive's relationship with the McLaren Group, which includes the Formula One team, saying that the former will work more closely with the latter in the future. Collins said he and McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown "communicate daily," adding that they share ideas about what they can do together regularly. While the W1 will certainly be a technological tour de force, this alignment hints at closer collaboration on future road cars, potentially hinting at a new F1-inspired hypercar. With the funds and the ambition to make its dreams come true, the next year is going to be an exciting one for McLaren. McLaren View the full article

Japan's Love for Special EditionsJapan loves its special editions. From toys, clothing, and even food and beverages, the moment something is marketed as limited and potentially collectible, you can pretty much guarantee there will be very interested customers. Cars, of course, are no exception. BMW Japan is very well aware of this. We've covered several of these in the past, the most recent being the Edition Shadow models. Less than 500 of these were made, so it'll be a rare sight to see those over there. Now, there's another limited-run model, and the company has come up with a rather interesting way to hype it. BMW Japan Check Out the Car, Win Cool PrizesBMW has rolled out Frozen Edition models for its top-selling models in Japan, namely the X1, X3, and 3 Series. More specifically, it's for the M Performance models, so it's the X1 M35i, X3 M50, and M340i in both sedan and Touring guises. Making these cars more interesting is the way BMW Japan is promoting them. If you enter a raffle, you can get pretty sweet prizes out of it. Now, this isn't just a dealer promotion that'll get you a gift card or merch. BMW Japan's prizes are actually worth checking out. The 'basic' prize is a day at Fuji Speedway to watch a round of the BMW and Mini Racing series for 9 pairs of lucky winners. The second prize is an extended test drive that brings the winner and their passenger to The Hiramatsu Hotels & Resorts Sengokuhara with an X1 35i, M235 Gran Coupe, or an M340i. But for us, the one to get is the free entry to the BMW Circuit Academy 2026, where the winner and their companion can do laps around Fuji Speedway. That package also includes an accommodation at the Fuji Speedway Hotel, plus tickets to the BMW & Mini Racing series round the day after the track experience. Well, that's one way to promote your latest products. BMW Japan The Frozen Edition ModelsAs mentioned, these limited-run models are for the X1 35i, X3 M50, and both sedan and Touring versions of the M340i. Three of the four are available in either Frozen Black or Frozen Pure Grey, and the M340i is exclusively in Frozen Black. All get an exclusive Edition Frozen badge on the inside, along with a carbon fiber fuel cap and gloss-black M badges. For the X1, it gets brushed-aluminum Shadow trim inside, along with a rear badge delete and carbon door mirror caps. The X3 also gets those carbon door mirror caps, plus bronze exhaust tips with a carbon finisher, panoramic sunroof, and the Comfort Package fitted as standard. As for the 3 Series, both sedan and Touring get carbon fiber interior trims, gloss black badges, galvanic finishes on the buttons and switches, as well as more carbon touches on the outside. Production numbers weren't mentioned, but we can say with certainty that these Edition Frozen models won't be a common sight on Japanese roads. BMW Japan BMW Japan View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Lexus Dealers Are Already Lining UpToyota has begun laying the groundwork to bring the GR GT to the U.S., with more than 100 Lexus dealers already expressing interest in handling sales, according to Automotive News. The automaker is said to be taking a more controlled approach, creating a customized sales and service process to ensure proper customer delivery. This appears to be a much more deliberate rollout than when the Lexus LFA was launched – though, to be fair, Toyota did not initially anticipate demand would later grow. Now, the company wants to avoid past mistakes and plans to train prospective dealers at a dedicated facility at Eagles Canyon Raceway in Texas, with the program eventually extending to customers once the GR GT arrives in the U.S. Toyota A Curated Retail StrategyThe report said Lexus dealers seeking a GR franchise will not need to build a separate new building. However, one dealer owner noted that the franchise is not intended for every market, but rather for those where “these prestige customers are.” The target market for the Toyota GR GT is well-heeled enthusiasts. With an expected starting price north of $200,000, it would land in upper-Porsche 911 territory. Power comes from a new 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 paired with a hybrid system, with output expected to reach at least 641 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. That is roughly 90 horsepower more than the previous halo car, the LFA. This time, the successor also benefits from the global motorsports success of the Gazoo Racing brand. In fact, the aforementioned dealer owner experienced the vehicle firsthand in Japan and said he was “blown away,” describing it as “extraordinary.” Toyota Designed for Real EnthusiastsThere is also a GT3-spec version of the GR GT, revealed last year, that is intended strictly for track competition. For now, however, the road-going customer car is expected to arrive in the U.S. next year. The report suggests buyers can expect a highly attentive, detail-oriented purchase experience – one that could help place the car in the hands of genuine enthusiasts rather than collectors who may never fully use it. After all, GR GT customers will gain access to Toyota’s first GR Academy, where a fleet of 42 GR vehicles – including the GR Corolla, GR86, and GR Supra – will be used for hands-on training in disciplines like autocross and drifting. Toyota View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Manthey Magic at the RingThe Porsche 911 GT3 RS set one of the quickest production-car lap times ever recorded around the Nürburgring in Germany with the Manthey Kit, delivering yet another strong performance from the German tuner. With Jorg Bergmeister behind the wheel, the car recorded a 6:45.389 lap – about four seconds quicker than the 911 GT3 RS without the kit. In a press release, Manthey said the car was fitted with its performance kit and optional Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R tires. The package further enhanced the model’s already substantial downforce capability – highlighted by its massive DRS-style wing – without increasing drag. As a result, the modified car was said to deliver performance comparable to that of a race car on slicks. The high-performance brakes also allowed the driver to brake later while maintaining consistent friction across a wide temperature range. In addition, a semi-active suspension, used for the first time, helped the car work through the bumps and corners around the 20.832-km (12.9-mile) track. A Masterclass in BalanceThe latest run still fell short of the 991.2-generation 911 GT2 RS with the Manthey Performance Kit, which posted a 6:43.300 in 2021. But that car had 700 horsepower from a twin-turbo flat-six, while the 911 GT3 RS relies on a naturally aspirated engine producing 525 hp. That gap suggests outright power is not everything around the Nürburgring, especially since this latest lap was still roughly three seconds quicker than both the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series and the Chevrolet Corvette ZR1X, the latter producing 1,250 horsepower from a twin-turbo hybrid V8 engine. For reference, the record for production, street-legal cars is still held by the Mercedes-AMG One, which uses a Formula 1–derived engine and set a 6:29.090 lap. It is followed by the Ford Mustang GTD Competition at 6:40.835, making it the fastest American car at the Ring. Manthey Racing The Business of Going FasterBergmeister, a Porsche brand ambassador who also drove the stock 911 GT3 RS around the Green Hell in 2022, expressed satisfaction with the lap, noting that both the car and the weather cooperated. “It’s truly amazing how much you can achieve with the Manthey kit, especially on the fast and medium-speed sections of the track.” That level of track-focused upgrade, however, does not come cheap. The Manthey Kit is priced at about $116,000 before taxes and installation, and thanks to the latest lap, it proves the package delivers beyond the spec sheet. Manthey Racing View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article