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Capricorn and Zagato’s Analog Hypercar Takes a Different TurnMost new hypercars are packed with hybrid tech, screens everywhere, and more computers than you’ll ever need. The Capricorn 01 Zagato does the opposite. Built by Capricorn Group with Zagato, it’s all about old-school driving feel instead of digital overload. Capricorn isn’t new to motorsport. They’ve worked on everything from Porsche’s LMP1 cars to Volkswagen’s WRC program, Peugeot’s Dakar trucks, and even F1 teams like Lotus and Caterham. The 01 Zagato is the company’s first road-going hypercar, and it’s built to be light and intentionally analog. Now there’s a new version called the Tutto Rosso, set to debut at the 2026 Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este. This isn’t just a special paint job on a prototype. It’s a customer-commissioned one-off where nearly every part of the car is red. Capricorn says the idea comes from classic 1930s Zagato-bodied Italian endurance racers, especially those all-red Alfa Romeos that helped define the brand’s racing history. Capricorn Nearly Everything on the Car Is RedThe Tutto Rosso isn’t just about red paint. Capricorn says about 95% of what you see is finished in the same deep red, from the body panels to the cockpit and interior trim. Only a few parts, like the pedals and the exposed shift gate, are left in a different finish. That choice made things tricky for the engineers. Capricorn builds about 85% of the car in-house, so they had to rethink materials and how they put the car together. The hardest part was making a red-tinted exposed carbon fiber monocoque that still looked right and stayed as strong as a proper hypercar chassis should. Inside, it’s the same story. Red Connolly leather and Alcantara cover almost everything, so the cabin feels more like a concept than a regular hypercar. Still, Capricorn says this Tutto Rosso is a working development car, with extra technical tweaks compared to the earlier green and yellow prototypes. Capricorn Manual Gearbox, Supercharged V8, and Only 19 CarsUnder all that red, the hardware is the same as before. There’s a supercharged 5.2-liter V8 based on Ford’s design, tuned to make over 888 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque, spinning up to 9,000 rpm. Instead of a dual-clutch or hybrid setup, Capricorn went with a five-speed dogleg manual that drives only the rear wheels. The car uses a full carbon structure, pushrod suspension with Bilstein dampers, Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes, and weighs in at under 2,700 pounds dry. It’ll do 0-62 mph in under three seconds and tops out around 224 mph. Production remains capped at just 19 coupes globally, a nod to Zagato’s 1919 founding year. Only 19 coupes will be built worldwide, a nod to Zagato’s 1919 founding. Prices start at about €2.95 million ($3.4 million before taxes), and deliveries are scheduled for the second half of 2026. Capricorn says there are just a few build slots left. Capricorn View the 8 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

California Governor Gavin Newsom has formally launched the state’s massive $1 billion rebate program specifically targeting electric medium and heavy-duty trucks. Framed aggressively as a countermeasure to federal subsidy rollbacks, the initiative shows that California is willing to unilaterally subsidize the domestic commercial EV market to promote fleet adoption. Authorized retailers are now offering point-of-sale rebates ranging from $7,500 to an enormous $120,000 per vehicle. Tesla Subsidy OverviewCalifornia’s new subsidy targets everything from localized delivery vans to massive Class 8 electric semis. However, a look at the balance sheet reveals the economic barrier this program is desperately trying to mask. Today, a traditional internal combustion (diesel) Class 8 semi-truck carries a baseline acquisition cost of roughly $150,000 to $180,000. In stark contrast, a comparable battery-electric Class 8 rig—such as a Freightliner eCascadia or Volvo VNR Electric—commands a paralyzing sticker price averaging between $400,000 and $450,000. Even with California throwing the absolute maximum $120,000 rebate at the transaction, the electric semi still costs a fleet operator between $280,000 and $330,000. The heavily subsidized electric truck remains nearly double the price of its diesel counterpart, leaving private fleets and independent owner-operators to absorb the additional - and totally avoidable - expense. Volvo What Californians Will FeelFor the ordinary citizen of California, this billion-dollar initiative is a quiet, unavoidable tax. The funding mechanism relies heavily on the state's Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) system, which generates its revenue by forcing carbon-heavy fuel producers to buy compliance credits. That is a massive corporate expense immediately passed down to the consumer at the pump. Furthermore, while the state champions cleaner air along freight corridors, the aggressive push to mandate wildly expensive electric trucks inherently raises the logistical overhead for every business operating within state lines. Every day, Californians are left carrying a dual financial burden: paying inflated fuel prices to fund the massive rebate pool, while simultaneously absorbing the higher costs of groceries and delivered goods as fleets pass along the premium of electrification. The state may be running on borrowed fiscal time. The takeaway for the broader automotive market is that state governments are no longer simply setting emission mandates; they are directly financing the businesses that align with their values. If California intends to cement its status as the standard for clean transportation, it must prove that a billion dollars can actually build a self-sustaining electric logistics network, rather than just temporarily mask the crippling costs of the hardware. View the full article

As Dover hosts the All-Star Race for the very first time, NASCAR provided teams with an extended 90-minute practice session on Friday. Defending NASCAR Cup series champion Kyle Larson topped the speed charts at 22.792s lap (157.95mph) around around the one-mile concrete oval. All 36 entries are taking part in the 350-lap All-Star Race this weekend, but ten drivers will be dropped ahead of ...Keep readingView the full article

While in the U.S. the Toyota Land Cruiser 300 is not available to buy after its predecessor model, the 200, was discontinued after the 2021 model year, in other markets the full-size Land Cruiser continues to thrive. Such is the case in Australia, where the Land Cruiser 300 has received a new hybrid powertrain that makes it the most powerful Toyota Land Cruiser ever. It’s the same hybrid setup U.S. buyers are familiar with from the Lexus LX 700h, the Land Cruiser 300-based luxury SUV we get here. Priced From $111,600 in Australia in GR Sport Trim Toyota Australia In the Land Cruiser 300, the i-Force Max twin-turbo V6 hybrid powertrain delivers 457 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque. That makes it significantly more powerful and torquey than the 3.3-liter V6 turbo diesel engine available on the base Land Cruiser 300 in Australia. The additional 152 hp and 66 lb-ft of torque are said to bring “a substantial increase in performance" both on and off-road. Toyota’s performance hybrid system is a parallel hybrid system that combines a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 gas engine with a single electric motor-generator placed between the engine and 10-speed automatic transmission. The performance hybrid powertrain is available exclusively on the Land Cruiser 300 GR Sport and Sahara ZX trim levels, which will arrive in Australia in mid-2026. Prices for the Land Cruiser GR Sport start at 156,060 Australian dollars, which is roughly the equivalent of $111,620. The Sahara ZX starts at AUD156,810 ($112,170). For the sake of comparison, even though taxes, market conditions, and brand positioning differ, the 2026 Lexus LX 700h starts at $117,285 in the U.S. in F Sport Handling trim (including a $1,550 delivery fee). Specific Off-Road Bits and Upscale Interior Features Toyota Australia Along with the new hybrid powertrain, the Land Cruiser 300 gains electric power steering (the diesel version has hydraulic steering), an upgraded 200V/1500W rear auxiliary power socket to power small appliances, and a 40/20/40-split rear seat back. The Sahara ZX also gets a rear Torsen limited-slip differential while the off-road focused GR Sport features fully lockable front and rear differentials and electronically-controlled E-KDSS suspension. Obviously, the GR Sport and Sahara ZX retain the diesel Land Cruiser 300’s hardware including a full-time 4WD system, five-mode multi-terrain select, and adaptive variable suspension. Inside, both hybrid trim levels feature leather-accented upholstery and trim, heated and ventilated front seats and outboard rear seats, power-adjustable front seats, and a 12.3-inch multimedia touchscreen with a 14-speaker JBL audio system. On top of that, the Sahara ZX also comes with a dual rear-seat entertainment system. View the full article

Nothing has been heard from the AM Racing (AMR) NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series (NOAPS) team since withdrawing from the Rockingham race at the end of March, but Motorsport.com can now confirm that the team has formally ceased operations. Per our Senior NASCAR correspondent Matt Weaver, Vice President of Competition Matthew Lucas informed employees that they were being released from their ...Keep readingView the full article

At the end of last year, Ferrari filed a new trademark for "HC25," and now it's revealed the one-off this name is for. Based on the F8 Spider, the Ferrari HC25 is a stunning drop-top with the multiple award-winning 3.9-liter twin-turbocharged F154 V8, meaning 710 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque going to the rear wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. That also means no hybridization. Maranello says it will get to 62 mph in 2.9 seconds and 124 mph in 8.2 seconds, with a top speed of 211 mph. Since the latest addition to the One-Off series in the Special Projects program (following the F40-aping SC40 last year) was unveiled at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, as part of the Ferrari Racing Days event, it seems likely that H and C are the initials of an American buyer, though Ferrari won't give us that much information. Ferrari HC25 Blends Past and Present Ferrari View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The HC25 gives the impression of bridging two eras, with its overall shape reminiscent of the F8 from which it is derived and the bold gloss black elements calling to mind the contemporary F80 and the 12Cilindri. But even the F80 can't boast the custom-built headlights that this car has, which feature modules Ferrari has never used before to create a very slim, indented lens that is cohesive with the design of the ultra-thin rear taillights. Look a little closer, and you'll find that the daytime running lights are vertical for the first time, sitting on the outer edges of the front fascia in a boomerang shape. Ferrari Further back, the ducted hood is bridged with gloss black, contrasting with the matte Moonlight Grey bodywork. Gloss black also appears on the windshield surround, as well as the side blade, which wraps around the engine cover. Within this band, which conceals the air intakes, is a long blade milled from solid aluminum, within which the door handle is neatly integrated. This gives the car a pure profile, with the gloss black helping make the HC25 look like it's up on its haunches and in motion even when parked. Ferrari View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Like the F8 Spider, the HC25 features two exhaust tips, but they're no longer round. Instead, rhombus-shaped finishers sit lower in the rear fascia, helping accentuate the upward motion of the diffuser. As usual, a Ferrari shield sits on the door, matching the yellow of the center caps and brake calipers. Before we move to the interior, the wheels match the two-tone theme of the car with a diamond-finished outer rim, a double-recessed groove on the outer area, and slim, dark spokes. Again, these somehow look both old-school and futuristic, a neat trick not many automakers achieve well. Ferrari HC25 Interior: Simple and Elegant Ferrari View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article The HC25 cabin is a lightly reimagined version of that seen in the F8 Spider, but it still looks special. The shape of the black bodywork accent running from one door to the other (and the LED DRLs) is echoed with yellow accents on the fabric upholstery, which also features a little leather. Physical gauges are a welcome element of the F8, and the steering wheel is, as usual, accompanied by enormous paddle shifters, and there's a small HC25 badge on the passenger side of the dashboard. This interior is clean, simple, and arguably a high point in Ferrari's history. The interplay in textures between fabric and leather is particularly enticing, and we imagine the commissioning buyer is very pleased. Naturally, Ferrari won't disclose what something like this would have cost, but we suspect it's well into seven-figure territory. But someday, styling and lighting technology from this car will undoubtedly reach more attainable Ferraris, and if you look at it that way, this car is doing a public service. Ferrari Ferrari Ferrari Ferrari Ferrari Ferrari View the full article

There is a distinct, mechanical poetry in the way a Boxer engine hangs in a custom chassis, the massive cylinders jutting out like a pair of clenched, aluminum fists. In 2021, that physical presence was the canvas for some of the most radical, boundary-pushing custom motorcycles the world had ever s... View the full article

It’s been just over three years since the BMW Group announced it would be securing the rights to the Alpina brand. The BMW Alpina brand was made official at the start of 2026, and now we have our first look at its future with the unveiling of the stunning Vision BMW Alpina. A one-of-one design study, this full-size coupe may not be destined for production, but it shows the exciting new direction of the BMW Alpina brand. Here’s a closer look at its design, which was inspired by iconic models from the past, including the stunning BMW 507. Related: As BMW Takes Over Alpina, These Cars Defined the Brand Longer Than an X7, More Presence Than an 8 Series Vision BMW Alpina BMW View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article The Vision BMW Alpina looks every bit the flagship coupe, successfully blending elements of BMW’s past and current design language. At 204.7 inches in length, the concept is even longer than the three-row X7 SUV. It’s also particularly wide and low, with enough space to accommodate four occupants. It comes across as far more impactful than the recently departed 8 Series, a great car that never quite lived up to its flagship status within the BMW lineup. BMW BMW Alpina turned to a few iconic past models when designing this powerful coupe. In front, the forward-leaning stance and shark nose can be traced back to the Alpina B7. The traditional kidney grille has been reimagined as a three-dimensional sculpture. Inward-facing return surfaces are finished in a dark metallic tone, an approach inspired by the BMW 507. There are also modern deco-lines on the side of the body beneath the clear coat, something that’s been part of Alpina’s design language since 1974. Other Alpina touches that live on include the elliptical shape of the four tailpipes and the 20-spoke wheels, a design that has been an Alpina trademark since 1971. Those wheels are available in 22 or 23 inches. “In Vision BMW Alpina, we distill every element of the brand to its essence and apply it in a deeply modern and sophisticated way,” says Maximilian Missoni, head of BMW Design Midsize & Luxury Cars and BMW Alpina. “Every detail reflects substance: in engineering, in materials, and in the story it tells. The statements it makes are subtle and revealed only on a closer read. This interplay between purity and richness defines our approach to BMW Alpina design.” Related: Alpina Fans, Rejoice! BMW Just Saved the Brand's Iconic Quad Exhausts Opulent Interior and V8 Power Vision BMW Alpina BMW View the 4 images of this gallery on the original article Like older Alpinas, the BMW DNA is obvious in the cabin. It has the same dual touchscreens and Panoramic Vision setup as the latest 7 Series. For Alpina, though, the charm is all in the details. Darker upper and lighter lower segments are divided by the six-degree speed feature line, and there’s full-grain leather upholstery sourced from producers across the Alpine region. The metal components use a watchmaking-inspired beveling technique, historic steering wheel hand-stitching inspired the bridge stitch in blue/green, and clear-cut crystal is used for controls that influence the car’s driving behavior. Behind the rear console, there’s a glass water bottle alongside the BMW Alpina crystal glasses, which rise on a self-deploying mechanism—it’s one of several details that you won’t find in an average BMW. As this is a design study, BMW Alpina didn’t go into any detail regarding technical specifications. It confirmed the coupe has a V8, though, along with an exhaust system that’s “rich and deep at low speed” and “sonorous” at higher revs. The Vision BMW Alpina also has a Comfort+ mode, which goes further than even the regular Comfort mode in BMWs. Burkard Bovensiepen, founder of Alpina, always believed speed and comfort were complementary, which is why new Alpinas will still prioritize refinement and suppleness. BMW Alpina’s Place Within The BMW Group BMW BMW Alpina is a brand reserved for models that fall between regular BMWs and Rolls-Royce, where a substantial price gap exists. They’re expected to be lower-volume models than other BMW products, too. "BMW Alpina fills a gap in our portfolio between BMW and Rolls-Royce as we see even more potential in the high-end segment. With Alpina we have a strong legacy and a global community, which we want to build on, while preserving the essence of what the brand stands for—speed, comfort and sophistication,“ says Oliver Viellechner, head of BMW Alpina. The first BMW Alpina model will only reach customers next year. Little has been said about it, but we know it will be inspired by the BMW 7 Series. That strongly hints at a full-size sedan, but if it has the craftsmanship and elegance of the Vision BMW Alpina, it could be a legitimate alternative to Bentley and Maybach sedans. View the full article

Doug Kruse of nearby Rockford, Illinois captured the $10,000 warm-up race Thursday to open the weekend at the Autoland Door Car Challenge at Byron Dragway. Nick Engler of Becker, Minnesota earned a $1,500 payout as the warm-up race runner-up. Engler, who is the reigning NHRA West Central Division Champion, competes as a no box, bottom-bulb entry. In the final, Kruse had an .029 reaction-time and ran a 6.539 elapsed-time on his 6.49 dial-in. Engler’s had an .048 reaction-time and ran a 6.181 elapsed-time on his 6.15 dial-in. This final round captured a special sentiment that is unique to door car bracket racing as the cars themselves are a critical part of the story. A “late bloomer” to being behind the wheel of a race car, Kruse only assumed the driving duties of his Chevrolet Camaro in memory of his late-brother Ken “The Duz” Kruse, whom the car belonged to. And Engler’s Dodge R/T belonged to his late-grandfather and has been in the Engler family since it was new in 1969. These are the meaningful and deeply personal stories that make door car bracket racing extra special. The racing continues Friday with a $15,000 to race. Saturday is highlighted by a $50,000 to win main event. Sunday will conclude with another $15,000 finale. The Autoland Door Car Challenge is at Byron Dragway in Byron, Illinois May 14-17, 2026. This story was originally published on May 15, 2026. The post Kruse Captures $10,000 Warm-Up Race Win to Open The Autoland Door Car Challenge at Byron Dragway first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

With the end of the regular season approaching and a wide range of talent evident at every turn, the JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Elite Motorsports heads to Route 66 Raceway this weekend as part of the Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals presented by PEAK. This weekend’s event is the fifth of 11 races in the category during the 2026 campaign and the race is powered by ProFlow Pumping Solutions. As the fifth stop of the year, it marks the penultimate race of the regular season before the five-race “Road to the Championship” playoffs and the competition is as tight as ever. There have been four different winners – Derek Menholt, Justin Bond, Mike Stavrinos and Jason Collins – through the first four races, with Menholt getting his second career win and Collins picking up his first career NHRA Pro Mod win. Collins’ triumph came at the most recent event at South Georgia Motorsports Park, doing so in just his second career race in the series. It added another strong contender to the mix as the category heads to Chicago to finish off a stretch that included three races in four weeks. “This event brings together the kind of energy, speed, and technical excellence that the ProFlow Pumping Solutions Team respects, both on the track and in the industries, we serve,” declares Scott Champlin, President & Owner of ProFlow Pumping Solutions. “As a company built around motion, horsepower, and keeping critical systems running, we feel right at home in a sport where highly engineered equipment must perform in demanding conditions. “ProFlow Pumping Solutions is excited to support NHRA Pro Mod Racing as an Official Event Sponsor, and we look forward to joining fans and industry partners for an unforgettable weekend of racing. We are proud to cheer on Mason Wright, owner/operator of Shaneda Machine, and to be part of a race weekend that connects great people, powerful machines and a passionate motorsports community.” Wright is one of the marquee talents in the category, entering the weekend as the defending event winner. Last year’s victory, which came against reigning world champion J.R. Gray in the final round. He qualified in the top spot in 2025 as part of an impressive weekend and will look to do so again while taking on a talented field that includes points leader Bond, Menholt, Gray, who is after his first win of the year after a dominant 2025 championship season, Stavrinos, Billy Banaka, Stevie “Fast” Jackson, Mike Thielen, Lyle Barnett, Collins and Stan Shelton. The JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Drag Racing Series presented by Elite Motorsports features two qualifying rounds at 12:45 and 3:30 p.m. CT on Friday, and the final two qualifying rounds at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday. The first round of eliminations is slated for 12:45 p.m. CT on Sunday. The second qualifying session of the day on Friday and Saturday, as well as the first round of eliminations, will be broadcast for free on NHRA’s YouTube page. To purchase tickets to the Gerber Collision & Glass NHRA Route 66 Nationals presented by PEAK on May 14-17 at Route 66 Raceway, fans can visit www.NHRA.com/tickets. All children 12 and under will be admitted free in the general admission area with a paid adult. For more information about NHRA, including the full 2026 schedule, visit www.NHRA.com. This story was originally published on May 15, 2026. The post JBS Equipment NHRA Pro Mod Series Heads to Chicago at Race Powered by ProFlow Pumping Solutions first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

When the gates swing open at Cecil County Dragway this Saturday morning, Jim Halsey’s Rising Sun, Maryland quarter-mile will host something it has never seen in the history of the track: a no-prep drag race. That’s the headline tucked inside Fast Life Fest 2026, the two-day motorsports festival landing at Cecil County on May 16-17. The brainchild of Eat Sleep Race founder Brian Mabutas in partnership with Discovery Channel Street Outlaws stars Farmtruck and AZN, the Fast Kids Club, and Teter Built, Fast Life Fest packs a no-prep program, a kids’ power-wheel drag race, a car show, a burnout contest, vendors, and a Junior Dragster slate into one weekend built for racers and the families they bring with them. For Mabutas, the whole thing started with a phone call. “I was talking to Discovery Channel’s Street Outlaws star Jeff ‘AZN’ Bonnett, and he said that him and Farmtruck love seeing the power wheels content, and this was three years ago,” says Mabutas. “I told him with all these millions of views that the kids content is getting, we were considering making it a live event where we could get spectators. Within that same conversation we said, ‘OK, why don’t we actually turn this into an event with real drag racing combined with the kids power-wheel drag racing,’ and then obviously add a car show element to it. Long story short, that’s how the idea of the event came together. Obviously, their background with no prep, we decided to make it no-prep drag racing. Alex took control of promoting and managing the kids portion, and then Eat Sleep Race and Farmtruck and AZN were on the side of promoting and producing the drag racing and the car show.” The Cecil County booking wasn’t random. Alex Teter of Teter Built had already run kids’ power-wheel races at the track, and the parent base that fuels that grassroots scene lives within a tank of gas of the Maryland strip. “We chose Cecil County because Alex already hosted a few of these kids power-wheel drag races at other events at the track, so there was a history already there, and because his community of parents that race these cars are local to that track,” says Mabutas. “It’s only two hours away. We have people that could support us within a two-hour radius. The hardest part about this was convincing Farmtruck and AZN to do the event over there because they were 20 hours away, but they believed in the idea, and that’s how we landed on Cecil County. The idea has floated of taking the event over to their area, but the problem is we’re able to draw over 100 parents to this event because Alex has built up this community of kids racers that are very local. There’s a lot of risk if we were to take it out of state, because the largest community is the one he’s built locally.” The competition slate is intentionally wide. Saturday runs 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. as a test-and-tune and grudge day with a $60 tech card. Sunday is the heads-up payday: Small-Tire 28×10.5 Non-W, Stick Shift H-Pattern, All Motor, Honda FWD, Daily Driver, Junior Dragster, RWD/AWD, 11.50 and 10.50 Index, Test and Tune, and Run What You Brung. Eighth-mile classes share staging lanes with quarter-mile classes. Imports and domestics run the same ladder. The Power Wheels cars get their own program in the lanes, and every kid 10 and under gets through the gate for free. The sponsor row reflects the build. Summit Racing Equipment, HPS Performance Products, and Exedy Racing Clutch back the event, Peotter’s presents the car show, and Kids Wash Club presents the kids’ car show. Before the green light drops, Brian wanted to make sure one name landed in print. “Special recognition would be the partners, Farmtruck and AZN, Eat Sleep Race, Fast Kids Club, and Teter Built, and also a shout-out to Jim Halsey for believing in the idea,” says Mabutas. “This event is actually the first no prep that he’s ever ran at Cecil County in the history of the track, so thanks to him for believing in the idea and allowing a no prep to run at Cecil County Dragway.” That last line is the real story. A Mid-Atlantic mainstay opening its prepped surface to no-prep racing for the first time, on a weekend built around kids in power wheels, is the kind of crossover the sport keeps needing more of. Tickets and the full schedule are at fastlifefest.org. This story was originally published on May 15, 2026. The post Eat Sleep Race’s Brian Mabutas Talks Fast Life Fest at Cecil County Dragway first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Toyota is investing $2 billion to expand its truck assembly plant in San Antonio, Texas, creating 2,000 new jobs in the process, public records show. According to a May 15 filing submitted to the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts and seen by Reuters, the site would be located in Bexar County in South Texas, right next to Toyota’s truck assembly plant in San Antonio. The existing site, which currently makes full-size Tundra pickups and Sequoia SUVs, built almost 200,000 vehicles with around 3,700 employees last year. Is Toyota Bringing Tacoma Production Back to Texas? The new facility, which is dubbed “Project Orca,” will help Toyota expand U.S. production through the creation of a new production assembly line. It's not clear if the new line will be used to supplement Tundra and Sequoia production. Still, the scale of the investment suggests a new model might be relocated to Texas, and the Tacoma—America's best-selling mid-size truck—looks like a plausible candidate. Tacoma used to be made in Texas until 2021, when Toyota moved all Tacoma production to two Mexico plants. Now that the U.S. imposes a 25% tariff on Mexican-made vehicles despite the USMCA trade deal, it makes sense for Toyota to move Tacoma production for the U.S. market back to Texas. Construction of the new plant will begin this year and is expected to be completed in 2029, with operations scheduled to start in 2030, according to the application. The proposed expansion is part of a broader trend of global automakers reorganizing their supply chains and manufacturing strategies to adapt to the new U.S. trade policy that pressures carmakers to bolster domestic production, and shifting consumer demand. The move would significantly expand Toyota’s manufacturing capacity in its largest market as rivals including Ford and General Motors in the U.S., as well as Nissan and Honda in Japan, are cutting down on expenses. The Move Is Likely Part of Toyota's $10 Billion U.S. Investment Pledge Car Confections on YouTube A Toyota USA spokesperson told Reuters in a statement that the company has nothing further to announce at this time, adding that “our production philosophy is to build where we sell and buy where we build.” “We regularly evaluate our manufacturing footprint to ensure we remain competitive and aligned with customer demand,” the carmaker said. “This reflects our long-term commitment of investing in the North American region, local manufacturing/jobs, and suppliers.” Toyota CEO Kenta Kon already hinted at the Texas plant expansion during an earnings call last week, when the noted that the key to utilizing production capacity included building new factories. The factory expansion is likely part of Toyota’s previously announced plan to invest as much as $10 billion in U.S. projects over five years to boost production. Announced last November, the plan came in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s 15% tariffs on cars and car parts imported to the United States from Japan. The strategy includes a $912 million investment pledge to boost production of hybrid components and vehicles across five states, including West Virginia, Kentucky, Mississippi, Tennessee and Missouri, where 252 new jobs would be created as a result. In March, Toyota also announced a $1 billion investment in Kentucky—$800 million to increase RAV4 and Camry capacity and add a new BEV line—and Indiana—$200 million to increase capacity for the Grand Highlander hybrid SUV. View the full article

Regaining its FootingMercedes-Benz's quest for profit at the expense of volume hadn't panned out. With that, the German automaker has pivoted its focus to sell more while securing the profits it needs for a greater product push. It's a tough ask, but the company has a plan. Under the new direction, Mercedes-Benz is targeting the 'mainstream premium' segment, a market that BMW and Lexus have been focused on for quite some time already. The folks from Sindelfingen now want a greater slice of that pie after the low-volume, high-profit strategy had backfired. So far, there are positive signs towards Mercedes-Benz's volume push. The company shifted more GLEs than ever, but one model alone can't do all the work. With that, Mercedes-Benz USA CEO Adam Chamberlain laid out plans to achieve the automaker's most ambitious plan for the U.S yet. Mercedes-Benz It Starts with the FrontlineIn an interview with Automotive News, Chamberlain said he would like Mercedes-Benz to achieve 400,000 unit sales per year in the U.S by 2030. That's a huge deal, as not only does it have to leapfrog over Lexus and BMW, but no luxury automaker has ever broken past that number. With that, Chamberlain wants Mercedes-Benz to be first to blow past that. To do that, the company and its dealers need to reconnect. Chamberlain will be the crucial link between the two, and admitted that it "lost the core of some of our relationship with our dealers." "We've been really intentional on trying to simplify, declutter the relationship with the dealers," added the executive. He also wants sales executives to give customers a greater, more involved experience instead of "spending all day behind a laptop or a monitor managing [key performance indicators]." Mercedes-Benz The Product PushMercedes-Benz is pulling out all the stops in its bid to chase volume. Chamberlain said that the company will roll out 30 new cars for North America, likely within the next two to three years. It was previously mentioned that 16 new cars will be launched by 2026, with the rest launched in 2027 and beyond. Some of these cars have already been revealed. There's the heavily updated GLS and GLE, the latter being a crucial sales driver for the brand. The significantly revamped S-Class, while not a volume model, is important for generating profits and as a showcase of what to expect in the company's ICE models. On the electric front, the GLC EV will arrive in showrooms by mid-2026, and we can expect the battery-powered C-Class to be available towards the end of the year. From a more global perspective, Mercedes-Benz canceled plans to axe the A-Class and will live for another generation. The VLE has all the potential to succeed in China, given the country's strong electric minivan market. We can also expect the facelifted fuel-fed C-Class down the line. Mercedes-Benz Circumventing Tariffs and the Bottom LineAs with many automakers, tariffs have been the biggest hurdle to earnings. For Mercedes-Benz, it cost the company $1.2 billion, slashing its earnings by a whopping 57% last year. To avoid that sting, Mercedes-Benz is in the process of adding a third model to be built in its Tuscaloosa, Alabama, facility. That model would be the GLC, the company's best-seller not just in the U.S. but worldwide. At the moment, GLCs sold in America are sourced from Germany, and Mercedes-Benz is paying a hefty bill for every one sent stateside. With the current tariffs, not to mention the threat of an additional 25% tariff on every car built in Europe, the company is prioritizing adding the popular crossover to its American assembly line. Production for the Alabama-built GLC will commence by 2027. That should hopefully lessen the impact of tariffs on the company. Combine that with the wave of new models Mercedes-Benz will be rolling out, and it should help the brand, at the very least, get closer to 400,000 units per year in the U.S. For now, though, it's baby steps, and it's targeting 325,000 units by the end of the year. Mercedes-Benz View the full article

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has released its latest safety results for 16 new models, but only two of them achieved the authority’s Top Safety Pick+ award. Those are the 2026 Hyundai Palisade and 2026 Toyota Prius, which achieved near-perfect crashworthiness and crash-prevention scores. For the Palisade particularly, it's a much-needed stamp of approval from the IIHS after the SUV experienced reputation-damaging issues with its rear seats earlier in the year. However, the results also show a trend of imperfect scores in the agency’s moderate overlap front tests. Let’s take a deeper dive into the latest safety scores. Related: Toyota Corolla Vs. Mazda 3 Vs. Honda Civic: Which Is Safest? Palisade and Prius On TopIn order to achieve the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award, a vehicle has to meet the following criteria: Good ratings in the small overlap front, moderate overlap front, and side crash testsAcceptable or Good ratings for headlightsGood rating for pedestrian front crash preventionAcceptable or Good ratings for vehicle-to-vehicle front crash preventionThe Palisade and Prius were the only two models from a new batch of 16 to meet these standards. The only minor blemish between then was an Acceptable score for the Prius hatchback’s headlights. The Hyundai Palisade’s top safety award may raise some eyebrows, given that it was recalled earlier this year and put under a stop-sale order after a fatal incident involving its rear seat. In that tragedy, the seat pinned a two-year-old girl after failing to detect her, eventually leading to her death. This, of course, was a specific fault which Hyundai remedied, so does not factor into the IIHS’ regular safety tests. Only Palisades built after November 2025 qualify for the Top Safety Pick+ award, as they received changes to their rear seat belt buckles. Related: Ford F-150 Vs. Chevy Silverado 1500 Vs. Ram 1500: Which Pickup Is The Safest? Many Models Struggle in One Safety TestIn the latest moderate front overlap crash test, whereby an offset crash is represented between two vehicles, many models have struggled. In 2022, this test was updated to include back-seat protection, and it’s in this area where otherwise safe vehicles are falling short. Two Fords, four Toyotas, and one Kia only attained a Marginal rating in this test, while two models—the Honda Ridgeline and Jeep Compass—scored a Poor rating. Of all 16 vehicles with new IIHS scores, the Ridgeline pickup has the worst overall results, with three Poor ratings (moderate front overlap and both crash-prevention tests), a Marginal headlight rating, and a merely Acceptable rating for the small overlap front test. Another insight is that pricier luxury brands don’t necessarily make the safest cars. The BMW i4 has two Poor ratings, while the 3 Series has two Marginal ratings. What It Means 2026 Toyota Prius Joe Santos View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article The Toyota Prius and Hyundai Palisade are two completely different vehicles: One is a small hatchback and the other is a large three-row crossover. These latest IIHS results show that vehicle size and body style have little bearing on how safe a specific model is. While it’s disappointing that only two of 16 models achieved a safety award, one must bear in mind that the IIHS regularly updates its safety standards, so what may have been a solid result three years ago may not be today. By keeping manufacturers on their toes, the consumer benefits from the safest possible vehicles. View the full article

Rising Costs First, rising fuel prices were pushing people to the edge; now, car maintenance will tax owners. Following all the news surrounding the Iran war and its economic effects, fuel prices were the first gut punch consumers had to stomach, but now, as NBC San Diego reports, "Drivers [are] delaying car maintenance as costs rise." Higher costs of ownership and busy schedules are to blame. Apparently, it's a luxury to be able to keep up with your maintenance schedule now. The Iran War is sending massive ripples through the automotive industry, and consumers will have to face another crisis on top of what's already happening. Getty Images Delays According to the report, mechanics are noticing that cars aren't returning as often for their scheduled maintenance intervals. One owner even admitted that her car is about 1,000 miles overdue. The main reason is the rising prices across the board for car ownership. Not only are cars set to cost more due to the ongoing energy crisis, but parts supply and fuel supply are eating into the maintenance budget. NBC San Diego also states that putting off car maintenance could be more expensive in the long run; however, some consumers are fearful of higher maintenance and repair prices, leading to neglect. NBC's source also states that newer cars tend to be more disposable and less reliable over time. A 2025 CarFax study suggests that 41% of vehicles are overdue for major service, the report cites. The advice that NBC and its source left us with was to maintain a good relationship with the shop that takes care of our vehicles. Set budgets, get what's most important at this time if money is tight, and your car will thank you later. Substitutions Third-party shops, like NBC's source, aren't the only ones that are feeling the pinch. According to a Toyota service bulletin, their motor oil supply chain is getting strained, leaving dealers with a shortage of 0W-8 and 0W-16 motor oils, which are typically used in modern hybrid and non-hybrid Toyota engines. Substitutions are ongoing, as per the bulletin issued to service managers. Furthermore, oil brands are unable to supply shops and stores with sufficient motor oil. In the coming months, we can expect prices to rise more, not just for motor oil but also for car parts and perhaps even skilled labor. View the full article

With a quarter of the Mission Foods NHRA Drag Racing Series season already past, Tony Stewart Racing enters this weekend’s Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals with both Matt Hagan’s Dodge//SRT Hellcat Funny Car and Leah Pruett’s Dodge Top Fuel dragster sitting third in their respective points categories. Hagan, a 56-time Funny Car national event winner, has had a quarter final finish or better through the first five races with a win and two semi-final finishes. His victory at the NHRA Winternationals extended his streak of seasons with at least one victory to 14. The Dodge//SRT team has qualified in the top five at each event. They are coming off a No. 4 qualifying effort and quarter final exit at the Southern Nationals at South Georgia Motorsports Park. “I’m really looking forward to getting to Chicago and a good race track, both lanes are smooth and it’s a stadium style arena, but the biggest thing is just side-by-side racing. I think last race in Georgia was tough, it was a new race track for us and lane choice really mattered,” Hagan said. “Chicago has always been a really good track and we’re able to put on a good show. I’m looking forward to getting back to it. I’m looking forward to getting back to racing after our week off.” The four-time Funny Car world champion has tallied four wins in five final round appearances at Route 66 Raceway. His wins came in 2010, 2013, 2014 and most recently in 2024. Hagan also earned No. 1 qualifier positions in 2016 and 2018. In 2025, he qualified No. 3 and had a semi-final finish. “Route 66 Raceway is just one of those tracks where it has good vibes, it’s always treated me pretty well. I’ve got a lot of good memories here. I set a national record during one of my wins and it was back when you had to back it up, so winning that weekend was a wild deal. There was a big thunderstorm that came in that put racing behind a couple hours but conditions got really good afterwards. We were really able to lay it down and we went out there and officially set the national record and win the race. It was wild,” Hagan said. “And then two of my wins, they came at the expense of John Force. That’s something, as a driver, I’m super honored to be able to say that I’ve competed against him, battled it out for race wins and championships. Racing a guy who has had a hand in the evolution of the sport, it’s cool and I’m glad I got to race with him. He’s one of the best there ever will be. To have raced him here in the Chicago finals and gotten the win against him twice, that means a lot. It just was always an honor to race John.” Hagan is on the verge of another milestone in his Hall of Fame caliber career. Already named to NHRA’s top 75 drivers of all time, Hagan’s next final round appearance will be his 100th in the professional ranks of NHRA. “Wow, my next final round will be my 100th that’s a pretty wild stat there. I guess what pops in my head at first is I’ve been out here doing this a while and I’m getting old. But, you know I’m a little better than 50-50 on wins so I’m just hoping that next final round was as good as my last, winning the Winternationals,” Hagan said. “Nonetheless man, I’m really blessed to have those and to have had the opportunity. You can do everything right and still get everything wrong and you aren’t guaranteed to be blessed to win the trophy and the money and the bonus for the guys. Just having 100 opportunities to win trophies, to have won 56 of them, I’m ready for the next one. In Top Fuel, Leah Pruett looks as if she never stepped out of the driver’s seat for two years to start a family. She returns to the Route 66 Nationals for the first time since 2023 looking for her first win in Chicago. Her Dodge Top Fuel dragster team has advanced to the quarterfinals or beyond each of her five starts this year, earning runner-up honors at the Arizona Nationals and a No. 1 qualifying start at the Winternantionals in Southern California. After a No. 8 qualifying start and second round exit at the the Southern Nationals at South Georgian Motorsports Park, Pruett stayed and tested. “Testing overall went very well as we continue to put together pieces in a much larger picture. We’ve absolutely had steady progression through these first five races,” Pruett said. “Our first Wally of the year is in the crossharis. It’s so close, I can feel it. That feeling is mutual throughout our pit.” Adding to that confidence this weekend is knowing the team surrounding her are technically coming in as defending event winners. In 2025, with Pruett’s husband Tony Stewart in the driver’s seat, the TSR Dodge Top Fuel dragster raced to victory. It was their second win of the 2025 season. “I believe Chicago and this team have had a good working relationship. So yes, it gives me even more confidence coming into this event,” Pruett said. “Tony winning and bringing our son Dom to the winners circle was a great memory and I’m looking forward to making the Chicago family picture full circle with a win of my own this weekend.” Competition at the Gerber Collision & Glass Route 66 NHRA Nationals begins with four rounds of qualifying Friday at 1:30 and 4 p.m. and Saturday at noon and 2:30 p.m. Eliminations are slated for Sunday at 11 a.m. Television coverage of the event will be on FOX Sports 1 (FS1) with qualifying shows Friday at 7:30 p.m. ET and Saturday at 11:30 p.m. ET. Eliminations will air Sunday at 5:30 p.m. ET. The post Matt Hagan, Leah Pruett Look to Carry Momentum Into Chicago for NHRA Route 66 Nationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

The Land Cruiser FJ Goes Live in JapanMonths after it made its world premiere in Japan, the compact Toyota Land Cruiser FJ has reached showrooms in its home market. Carrying a base price under $30,000, it's an affordable way to get into off-roading. As it's based on the Hilux, it's got rugged underpinnings from the get-go, and true capability off the beaten path. It's just a shame that the U.S has little to no chance of ever getting it. The Land Cruiser FJ has almost everything an old-school off-roader wants. The ladder-frame chassis will easily shrug off abuse, and its mechanicals are simple and straightforward by today's standards. In many ways, it's the antidote to the complexity of modern vehicles. Toyota Modellista Goodies for it are Now AvailableFor those familiar with Toyota's in-house aftermarket divisions, Modellista should ring a bell. Gazoo Racing focuses on performance, TRD is for off-roading, while Modellista is for the so-called 'street look.' It's interesting then that this 4x4 is available with the Modellista treatment. Then again, Modellista kits are also available on the Land Cruiser and other SUVs in Toyota's Japanese lineup. Of course, the Modellista look is different for the Land Cruiser FJ. It still includes some off-road-oriented parts, such as front and rear skid plates. There's a front bumper extension, a hood garnish, an illuminated grille, overfenders, and a set of Modellista wheels shod with low-profile all-terrain tires. These Modellista parts can be purchased individually or as a complete set. It can also be mixed and matched with other accessories from the parts catalog, such as door guards, cargo solutions, graphics, and more. Toyota There are ARB Accessories, TooIf the street look isn't for you or if you simply want to slap on every possible accessory for your Land Cruiser FJ, it can also be fitted with parts from ARB. It was mentioned in our previous article for the compact off-roader, but it's still worth a recap. ARB accessories for the Land Cruiser FJ include a roof rack, skid plates, and side rock sliders. There's not a lot, admittedly, but like the Modellista kit, you can add other accessories from the catalog. Toyota Just the StartGiven the way it looks, it's like the Land Cruiser FJ is just begging to be modded. The official accessories are just the start, and it's only a matter of time before other aftermarket companies start making more parts for the SUV. In fact, several custom Land Cruiser FJs were shown by Toyota during this year's Bangkok International Motor Show. If anything, it shows that this SUV is a great blank canvas for the aftermarket community. For those in the U.S, it's (still) such a shame it's not coming there. Jacob Oliva/Autoblog Toyota View the 15 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Japan has long been a closed market for foreign carmakers. Domestic giants Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Suzuki, and Daihatsu collectively gather 95 percent of new-car sales there, rightly earning the reputation as a graveyard for overseas brands. Yet Kia has decided this is precisely the moment to return to a market it retreated from 24 years ago — and it's doing so with the PV5, a record-breaking all-electric van in passenger and cargo versions that becomes the brand's first EV launched in Japan. Kia Motors Why Japan Has Always Been a Hard Market to CrackForeign brands fail in Japan for both structural and cultural reasons. Japanese consumers are intensely loyal to domestic nameplates. Dealership networks built over decades run deep into local communities, and domestic manufacturers have spent generations fine-tuning vehicles specifically for Japan's narrow urban streets. Toyota alone has long been the country's best-selling brand, cornering roughly 45 percent of the market in 2025, followed closely by Honda and Nissan, with Suzuki and Daihatsu dominating the kei-car segment that barely exists elsewhere. Foreign brands have no equivalent foothold. BYD Kia Is Targeting the Gap, Not the GiantRather than going head-to-head with Toyota on passenger cars, Kia spotted something more interesting. Japan's domestic manufacturers have been slow to commit to full electrification, favouring hybrids instead. This leaves the commercial EV space notably thin on options. Kia is walking straight through that door. The company partnered with Sojitz Corporation, a major Japanese trading firm, established Kia PBV Japan as a subsidiary, and already has seven dealerships and 52 service centres running. By year-end, it plans to expand to 11 directly operated stores and 100 service centres, targeting 1,000 EV van sales. Kia Why the Kia PV5 Works For JapanThe PV5 has been sized deliberately for Japan's infrastructure, coming in at 15.4 feet long, 6.2 feet wide, and with a tight turning radius that makes it manageable on congested city roads. Kia also added CHAdeMO charging compatibility as standard, ready for widespread Japanese charging infrastructure. The van is already proving itself elsewhere. In the first quarter of 2026, Kia sold over 8,100 PV5 units globally, capturing 9 percent of Europe's light commercial EV market. By 2030, Kia wants to sell 250,000 electric vans annually. Japan, where logistics demand is high and electric alternatives are scarce, sits at the centre of that ambition. View the full article

NHRA National event racing returns to the great state of Michigan, courtesy of NHRA, Dodge and Mopar. NHRA officials announce that the Dodge and Mopar brands will serve as title and presenting sponsors of the first NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series event at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park. Racing takes place Sept. 18-20 during NHRA’s 75th anniversary season. The event is the first of six playoff races during the 20-event 2026 campaign. The inaugural Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals presented by Mopar makes its debut at the standout facility in Martin, Michigan, representing the first NHRA National event Michigan stop in 66 years and kicking off the NHRA Countdown to the Championship playoffs in grand fashion. “Having Dodge and Mopar step into the role of title and presenting sponsor for our debut event at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park is incredibly exciting,” NHRA Vice President and Chief Development Officer Brad Gerber said. “This race has huge importance as the first event in the Countdown to the Championship, and partnering with two iconic brands like Dodge and Mopar, which have a deep-rooted history in the area and in NHRA drag racing, elevates it even further. It’s a great way to launch the playoffs at a new venue, and we’re looking forward to delivering a standout weekend for everyone involved.” “Let the Countdown begin,” said Matt McAlear, Dodge CEO. “We are thrilled to partner with Mopar to bring NHRA National event racing back to Michigan for the first time in 66 years, at the same time we celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Dodge Charger. Dodge performance is rooted in drag racing then and now, and it will be a great weekend to kick off the NHRA playoffs.” The last full NHRA National event in Michigan was at the now-defunct Detroit Dragway in 1960. The anticipation is already building for the first event at the popular Martin, Michigan, facility, and the addition of Dodge and Mopar as title and presenting sponsors adds to the excitement for the race. Dodge and Mopar continue to be heavily involved in the NHRA ranks, serving as partners for the Tony Stewart Racing team’s Top Fuel and Funny Car drivers, longtime Dodge and Mopar racers Matt Hagan and Leah Pruett. Racing legend and team owner Tony Stewart also competes in the Top Fuel class with Dodge HEMI® power. Pruett has impressed upon returning to the Top Fuel ranks in 2026, while Hagan is a four-time world champion who has spent his entire career in a Dodge Funny car and expects to be in the title hunt yet again. Stewart, who won the regular-season championship in 2025, already posted an early-season win this year. In Martin, Dodge and Mopar will have a strong presence at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park with a popular interactive exhibit and Dodge muscle cars on display, including the new SIXPACK-powered Dodge Charger. Additional information on Dodge and Mopar activities planned around the NHRA’s historic return to Michigan will be shared later this summer. With championship dreams in mind, all the stars in Top Fuel, Funny Car, Pro Stock and Pro Stock Motorcycle are set to debut at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park, one of four new facilities during NHRA’s milestone season. The special diamond Wally trophy celebrating NHRA’s 75th season will be on the line for the winners of the new race in Martin. The event will also be broadcast on FS1, including eliminations on Sunday, Sept. 20. The inaugural Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals presented by Mopar will also feature thrilling competition in the NHRA Lucas Oil Drag Racing Series, which includes some of the sport’s top drivers in Top Alcohol Dragster, Top Alcohol Funny Car and Flexjet Factory Stock Showdown. To purchase tickets to the inaugural Dodge NHRA Great Lakes Nationals presented by Mopar on Sept. 18-20 at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park, fans can visit www.nhra.com/tickets. The post NHRA, Dodge, and Mopar Bring National Event Racing Back to Michigan for First Time in 66 Years for NHRA Debut at U.S. 131 Motorsports Park first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Here is your livestream from the 2026 Santa Pod Door Slammers race! If you want to enjoy three days of great drag racing from England, then this is the livestream for you today. With a huge variety of race cars this weekend, there is surely some door car that will really turn your crank. We love Santa Pod and are excited to share their great racing action with all of our viewers. Watch and enjoy. The post FREE DRAG RACING LIVESTREAM: DOOR SLAMMERS AT SANTA POD IS TAKING OVER THE ENGLISH DRAG RACING SCENE THIS WEEKEND! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

In 1976, the first-ever GTI appeared and would go on to set the standard for fun, affordable motoring. 50 years later, the first all-electric GTI aims to do the same. Volkswagen has revealed the ID. Polo GTI at the 24 Hours of Nürburgring, where its wildest Golf yet will compete next year, and it looks like a lot of fun. On the front axle, a single electric motor produces 223 horsepower and 214 lb-ft of torque, enough to get from 0-62 mph in 6.8 seconds and up to a top speed of 109 mph. Yes, that's not particularly fast, but it's certainly exploitable, and that's what electric hot hatches need to be. For comparison, the bigger, combustion-powered Golf GTI gets to 62 mph in 5.9 seconds and tops out at 155 mph. ID. Polo GTI Fun Means Less Range Volkswagen View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article The regular ID. Polo EV was recently launched with 208 hp and 283 miles of WLTP range, and this GTI version's increased output means its 52 kWh net battery can only do 263 miles. But 20 miles is not a huge amount to sacrifice for the extra grunt in the GTI, and with the ability to use a DC fast charger at 105 kW, recharging from 10 to 80 percent takes roughly 24 minutes. AC charging is also possible at 11 kW for overnight battery replenishment. Of course, if you're driving the ID. Polo GTI as intended, making the charge last will be a challenge, but at least you should have fun. The electric hot hatch gets adaptive Dynamic Chassis Control dampers and an electronically controlled front differential lock as standard, and a GTI button on the steering wheel puts the power delivery, steering, and chassis systems in their sportiest settings with a single click. This also gives the interior screens unique colors and graphics specific to the GTI. ID. Polo GTI Looks Sporty From Every Angle Volkswagen View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article While an electric GTI is something entirely new, the ID. Polo GTI is easily recognizable as both a Polo and a GTI. The so-called Pure Positive design language is made more aggressive through standard 19-inch wheels, a GTI-typical red stripe running between the standard IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights and across the illuminated VW badge, and a pair of red vertical elements in the lower fascia that mimic a racecar's towing eyes. These are set in a mesh intake featuring the traditional GTI honeycomb design, while the black side skirts get a GTI badge, as do the wheel center caps. Red brake calipers are obligatory on a GTI, as is a roof spoiler, which here has a recess in the middle. The full-width taillights feature a red VW badge in the middle, below which another GTI badge appears. Lower down, the faux diffuser panel follows the spoiler's design, with two pronounced segments. Overall, the ID. Polo GTI looks clean, sporty, and staunch, and we look forward to seeing it in other colors beyond Tornado Red; VW will offer Candy White, Oyster Silver, Celestial Blue, Magnetic Grey, and Grenadilla Black. ID. Polo GTI Gets a Funky Cabin and a Nice Price Volkswagen View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article As usual, red and black appear inside. The GTI sports steering wheel gets a red noon marker and red stitching, the latter of which appears on the doors and seats, too. Like the front fascia, the dash gets a red stripe and a red glow of ambient lighting running across it, and another callback to heritgious GTIs is found in the fabric that has been inspired by the tartan upholstery of prior VW hot hatches. GTI emblems appear on the front headrests and on an illuminated element on the steering wheel, which has physical buttons for ease of use. Behind the wheel, the Digital Cockpit is a 10.25-inch display that can be configured to show a retro display inspired by the first-generation Golf's cluster. Related: Volkswagen CEO Says Electric Golf Is Unnecessary - For Now In the middle of the dash, a 12.9-inch touchscreen infotainment display also gets old-school graphics when the View button on the steering wheel is pressed. Beneath this, more physical buttons appear above a space for smartphones, with a physical volume knob in the center console ahead of a pair of cupholders. Optionally, buyers can add a Harman Kardon sound system with 10 speakers and a 425-watt amplifier, or they can make the cabin feel more spacious with a panoramic sunroof. Also available are massage functions for the 12-way front seats or specially developed Bridgestone Potenza Sport tires. Volkswagen View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article What does all of this cost? In Germany, the ID. Polo GTI will retail for "just under €39,000," or roughly $45,340. That's roughly €7,000 ($8,150) cheaper than a gas Golf GTI sells for in Europe, but sadly, this electric hot hatch won't be offered in America. This isn't where the electric Polo GTI's story ends, though. For those who think the ID. Polo GTI should be quicker, don't worry - a more exciting version is reportedly in the works with up to or even more than 280 hp and simulated gear shifts. The question is, if the electric Polo GTI were to be sold in North America, would you be interested? Volkswagen Volkswagen Volkswagen Volkswagen Volkswagen View the full article

In February 2026, the Supreme Court invalidated significant portions of the tariff framework imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, declaring them unlawful. The ruling invalidated much of the sweeping tariff regime the Trump administration had put in place from early 2025, including levies on Canada, Mexico, and China, and opened the door to potential refunds of up to $175 billion in tariffs already collected. For Toyota, one of the most import-dependent automakers in the U.S. market, the fallout was severe. Despite record-setting revenue and an 8.5 percent jump in North American vehicle sales, the impact of US tariffs erased all of Toyota's profits in the region for fiscal year 2026, resulting in a rare operating loss of $1.9 billion. Toyota Canada What the Lawsuit Actually ClaimsNow, a California consumer argues that Toyota's customers are entitled to compensation, out of whatever the company gets back. Filed in the US District Court for the Central District of California, the class action lawsuit targets Toyota Motor North America over what it calls "windfall proceeds tied to tariffs." The lawsuit contends Toyota paid roughly $9.7 billion in tariff costs as a result of its reliance on parts and production from countries including Japan, Canada, and Mexico, and that those costs were passed directly on to consumers. The plaintiff argues that because buyers effectively funded Toyota's tariff bill through higher vehicle prices, they are entitled to a proportionate share of any government refunds Toyota recovers, plus interest. Toyota Does It Have Legs?Skeptics might dismiss this as opportunistic litigation, but there is genuine precedent here worth paying attention to. More than 2,000 lawsuits seeking IEEPA tariff refunds have already been filed at the Court of International Trade, with major companies including FedEx, Costco, and Nissan North America among them. FedEx has already stated it will return any refunds it receives to the customers who paid the tariffs, suggesting the logic behind the Toyota lawsuit is not without merit. Any effort to calculate consumer damages would likely require proving how much tariff exposure was embedded into individual vehicle pricing. Toyota has made no public statement on how it intends to handle any refunds it receives. That silence may just be the whole problem. View the full article

Not every OEM gets to be 125 years old, but it's clear that Royal Enfield is celebrating this milestone in style in every way possible.View the full article

Well, there are a lot of big money bracket races going on in 2026, but only one Great American Bracket Race, and only one with a Dream Team race where it isn’t just up to you, but rather your whole team, to go rounds for the money. The entire event consists of not only 3 Pro races, aka bottom bulb, but also 3 Super Pro races, aka top bulb. In addition to those races is the Dream Team race and that one is special. Teams can be made up of racers from anywhere in the country and those racers put their own teams together. This is your chance to put together whatever team you think is needed to take home the big money. The catch is that individual wins are not enough to keep you moving through rounds during the Dream Team Race. If your team “loses” the round, you all lose. Of course the other way to look at it is that if you have a bad round, but your team is on their game, then you will come back for the next round if the team wins overall for that round. It’s a lot going on but the drama is crazy! The post LIVE DRAG RACING: 9th Annual Great American Bracket Race – Dream Team – Friday appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Parent company Bajaj Mobility AG (formerly Pierer Mobility AG) couldn't wait to share this info, which is why it's doing quarterly reports for the first time ever.View the full article