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The Localization StrategyUnder Nissan’s America-first strategy, the automaker reduced its tariff exposure by $2.3 billion in its last fiscal year, cutting its potential tariff burden by 61% after the import duties took effect in April 2025. That was made possible by increasing domestic production of its SUVs and pickup trucks, including the Rogue, Pathfinder, and Frontier. According to Automotive News, Nissan increased the domestic production share of its U.S. sales volume by a third to 60%. Nissan Americas Chairman Christian Meunier expects local production to reach 70% of sales by late 2028, once the next-generation Rogue and its e-Power hybrid variant are fully localized in Smyrna, Tennessee, and up to 80% within four to five years. Nissan The Affordable-Car CatchBut despite that financial relief, the strategy is not as straightforward as it sounds. Nissan considered moving production of its affordable models, the Sentra and the Kicks, from Mexico to the U.S., but opted not to because it would be “impractical.” That’s because vehicles under the $30,000 price point have thin profit margins, and without the benefit of lower production costs in Mexico, the company decided to absorb the 25% tariffs instead. Nevertheless, Nissan appears to be heading in the right direction in the U.S. market over the long term. In fact, its tariff hit is expected to fall to $1 billion or less in the current fiscal year, according to a person familiar with the matter. That should also be helped by reducing its reliance on imported parts, including those from China. Chase Bierenkoven Nissan Goes BiggerAside from existing models, Nissan will further increase U.S. production with new and upcoming body-on-frame vehicles, including the Xterra, which would give the automaker an answer to the Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler. The Xterra is expected to be one of five truck-based models being explored for the U.S., with luxury brand Infiniti reportedly planning related models. If anything, Nissan’s approach sounds a bit like the Toyota playbook. Toyota has an extensive U.S. production network and a strong lineup of truck-based models, the kind of vehicles American buyers have long favored. That includes the Tundra and Sequoia. Whether Nissan can replicate that success remains to be seen, but the early signs and projections are encouraging. Nissan View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has raised concerns about the prevalence of performance-focused car advertisements, given the high number of fatalities linked to speeding and aggressive driving. A new study run by the safety authority looked at car ads airing between 2018 and 2022 and found that 43% of them focused on vehicle speed, maneuverability, traction, stopping, or power. Researchers also found that speed was promoted over twice as often as safety, highlighting a lack of regulation for vehicle ads in the United States relative to other major markets. A Culture of Dangerous Driving Ford Any gearhead appreciates the speed and power of a high-performance vehicle, but it also comes with a responsibility to exploit these vehicles’ capabilities only when it is safe to do so. The IIHS pointed out that vehicle ads in the U.S. promote a culture of hazardous driving, whereas other countries have stricter regulations in place. In the United Kingdom, for instance, vehicle ads with messaging about power, acceleration, or handling are prohibited unless mentioned in the context of safety. In the U.S., broadcasters rather than regulators set standards, so it’s easier to get around them. “Showing a stunt driver zooming around a tight turn in the rain might seem harmless, but these ads reinforce our cultural obsession with speed,” IIHS President David Harkey said. “The fine print may caution that it’s a professional driver on a closed course, but the message they convey is that you can drive this way too.” Chevrolet In 2024, 11,288 lives were lost in speed-related crashes in the U.S, making up 29% of all fatalities. That’s a significant percentage of fatalities, yet performance was the most common theme in 1,500 TV ads and 1,000 online ads surveyed. Only 8% of ads highlighted safety, and the IIHS says that even when vehicle traction was advertised, under 1 out of 10 of those ads portrayed traction in performance terms, not as a means of avoiding a crash. Visuals of cars kicking up dust, zooming across beaches, or blasting over mountain boulders were common. This is not a new phenomenon in the USA. As far back as 1990, a Super Bowl ad for the Nissan 300ZX Turbo was criticized by the IIHS and other safety groups, so much so that the automaker agreed not to run it again. “The vast majority of viewers are never going to take their vehicle through a mountain stream or up a sand dune, but this kind of ad could influence the way they drive in risky on-road conditions — in rainy or snowy weather, for instance,” said Amber Woods, IIHS Research Scientist. Performance Emphasis Increased Over Time Ford In ads that aired and were assessed between 2018 and 2022, the share of them with a speed focus increased from 14% to 19%, while those focused on traction increased from 20% to 38%. On the other hand, vehicle ads highlighting safety went from 11% to 3% over the same period. Regardless of vehicle type, performance themes were common in car ads, but they featured especially frequently in ads for pickup trucks. For speeding themes specifically, these were most commonly seen in ads for sedans, rather than SUVs or pickups. “This study highlights the cultural dimension of our road safety crisis,” Harkey said. “Automakers and broadcasters need to start treating unsafe speed the same way they would drunk driving or failure to use a seat belt.” Related: Parents Can Now Install Tech That Stops Teen Drivers From Speeding What It Means Stellantis America’s car-centric society and large enthusiast circles make it one of the most appealing markets in the world for gearheads. High-horsepower cars are prevalent and relatively cheaply accessible, but that same focus on speed and performance is dangerous in the wrong hands. Authorities in specific states have made some headway with new cameras, but the IIHS study suggests this isn’t getting to the root of the problem. Tighter regulations for vehicle advertisements could go some way towards encouraging less reckless driving. View the full article

As legacy market growth stalls, the world's largest carmaker is quietly placing a massive hedge with the poster child of rapid development, India. As reported by Nikkei Asia, Toyota Motor Corporation has formally committed roughly $1.9 billion (300 billion yen) to establish three new vehicle assembly plants in Maharashtra, India. This is a calculated investment in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies and a rising export hub. Toyota is tapping India to be its export hub for the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. Toyota Toyota in IndiaHistorically, Toyota’s relationship with the Indian market has been notoriously turbulent. Just six years ago, in 2020, executives effectively halted local expansion, citing a highly punitive taxation regime that crippled organic growth, making it a hostile regulatory environment. But shifting economics and policy reforms have transformed India into one of the decade’s most attractive manufacturing economies. The Indian passenger vehicle market has officially eclipsed Japan to become the third-largest globally, offering the explosive growth trajectory that traditional automotive strongholds currently lack. India already functions as an export hub for car-makers such as the Hyundai Group and Suzuki. The new Maharashtra facilities, slated to begin initial operations in 2029 and fully ramp up through the early 2030s, will completely transform the automaker's footprint on the subcontinent. Toyota The investment is designed to triple Toyota's Indian production capacity to a staggering one million units annually. Upon completion, the expansion will elevate India to Toyota’s fourth-largest global manufacturing hub behind only Japan, China, and the U.S. Toyota's StrategyThe Maharashtra operation serves a highly lucrative dual mandate. These assembly lines are built to function as strategic export hubs. Toyota is engineering a localized fortress to feed vehicles directly into the rapidly expanding consumer markets of the Middle East and Africa, effectively bypassing the logistical and geopolitical friction of exporting from East Asia. While competitors throw billions at domestic pure-EV mandates, Toyota will employ the new Indian plants to heavily support plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) alongside its broader electrified portfolio. In 2025, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, Toyota's Indian joint venture, recorded its strongest year on record with nearly 389,000 units sold—a 19 percent surge driven heavily by hybrid demand. By expanding local hybrid and PHEV assembly, Toyota circumvents the immediate limitations of India's fragile charging infrastructure while navigating a regulatory landscape that recently scaled back specific electric vehicle subsidies. Relying strictly on American consumers and European mandates is a blueprint for stagnation. Toyota recently invested $800 million in its Kentucky plant to prepare for North American BEV production, part of a larger $1 billion commitment to US manufacturing. However, Toyota recognizes that the next decade of automotive supremacy will not be decided in California or Beijing. It will be won on the factory floors of India, building pragmatic, electrified platforms for the emerging economies that the rest of the industry is actively ignoring. Automakers that fail to build supply chains in fast-growing economies risk losing future volume growth. View the full article

Lance Knigge surfaced a rarely referenced rule Saturday when he potentially won a round but his car flew over the finish line beams.View the full article

The Brand America Still Associates With FreedomFord and General Motors have long positioned themselves as deeply American brands, with the former even winning TIME and Statista’s Most Iconic American Companies list earlier this year. But according to a Brand Keys survey, Jeep is America’s Most Patriotic Brand, and rivals still cannot catch up. That’s because Jeep has held the title since the survey began in 2001, marking its 25th consecutive win this year. For 2026, Brand Keys surveyed more than 9,720 consumers ages 18 to 65, balanced by gender and political affiliation, with Jeep ranking ahead of roughly 1,200 brands. That does not necessarily mean Jeep vehicles are better or more “American” than others. Still, it gives Stellantis a useful marketing win, especially among patriotic buyers and off-road enthusiasts, and that kind of emotional brand pull could eventually help drive sales. (C) 2025 Doug Berger | DBPics The Lineup Behind The BrandingJeep offers several models in the U.S., including the Wrangler, Gladiator, Cherokee, Grand Cherokee, Wagoneer, Grand Wagoneer, and Compass. Most are assembled in the U.S., except for the Cherokee and Compass, though Stellantis plans to move both to Illinois production. The automaker is also preparing to launch the all-electric Recon, which is expected to be built in Mexico. The Wrangler is arguably the brand’s most iconic model, despite the Grand Cherokee outselling it in 2025. Its roots trace back to World War II, and it still retains many design cues from its spiritual predecessors, including the round headlights. That familiar look has helped Jeep preserve the heritage and Americana image closely tied to the brand. Stellantis Heritage Still Has ValueSpeaking about the achievement, Bob Broderdorf, Jeep brand CEO, said, “Earning recognition as America’s most patriotic brand for the 25th consecutive year affirms what generations of Jeep owners already know – that driving a Jeep vehicle comes with an unmistakable sense of pride.” If the streak continues, it could further strengthen Jeep’s brand image, which could prove crucial as it competes with models that also carry strong American identities, such as the Ford Bronco. So far this year, Jeep has been one of Stellantis’ main growth drivers in North America, helped in part by models like the refreshed Grand Wagoneer. Stellantis View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The Maverick Keeps EvolvingThe Ford Maverick was introduced not as a heavy-duty off-roader, but as an affordable truck for buyers who may not want to spend F-150 money. As the Maverick became more popular, customers wanted the hybrid version to become more capable, and so Ford added an all-wheel-drive system starting in the 2025 model year. One issue that emerged, however, was how the AWD hybrid setup performed in challenging, low-traction conditions such as ice and mud. Now, thanks to real-world feedback from the media and testing by the Ford team, the automaker says the traction control system has been recalibrated and improved for the 2026 Maverick Hybrid AWD. Ford Why the Hybrid AWD Needed WorkThe issue was discovered after a Maverick struggled to send enough power to the wheel with grip, limiting its ability to move forward. Ideally, the AWD system should reduce wheelspin at wheels with less traction and transfer torque to those with more grip. Ford has long worked on 4x4 systems for vehicles like the F-150, but pairing AWD with a hybrid powertrain – which delivers power differently from a conventional gas setup – created a different challenge on the Maverick platform. To solve the issue, Ford’s Brake Controls team recalibrated the system to transfer torque to the wheels with better traction more aggressively. The update allows the brakes to pinch the wheels with less grip, helping redirect more power to the wheels that can actually move the vehicle forward. The development also led Ford to add three-wheel roller testing to its internal engineering procedures as a standard part of the evaluation process. Ford Tightening Up the MaverickThe upgrade does not require any hardware changes. 2025 Maverick Hybrid AWD customers will be able to download the improved calibration through an over-the-air update, with Ford set to announce more rollout details soon. This could help cement the Maverick’s position in the compact pickup segment, where it does not have much direct competition right now. Hyundai is reportedly ending the Santa Cruz program in favor of larger trucks, but more automakers are said to be interested in joining the fray, including Toyota. That gives the Blue Oval brand more reason to keep refining the Maverick before the segment gets more crowded. Ford View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Krista Baldwin makes her return to NHRA Top Fuel. Her dragster will have a special Chris “The Greek” Karamesines theme for the Joliet event.View the full article

While everyone else builds 150-horsepower land missiles, Chinese manufacturer Zongshen made something people might actually use. View the full article

With a 4.4-liter V8 hybrid powertrain delivering a combined total of 717 horsepower to all four wheels, there aren't many station wagons in the world that can keep up with the BMW M5 Touring. That is, until you look elsewhere in the BMW stable, and specifically the M3 CS Touring. YouTube channel Carwow recently pitted BMW's most extreme fast wagons against each other in a drag race, and the results were rather surprising, with the less powerful longroof beating the bigger brute to the quarter-mile mark by two tenths of a second, setting a time of 11.1 seconds compared to the M5's 11.3. You can watch that race and another to the half-mile mark at the bottom of this article. BMW M3 CS Touring Beats M5 Wagon Over 1,320 Feet Carwow/YouTube According to the video, the U.K.-spec M5 Touring weighs 5,456 pounds, while the limited-edition M3 CS Touring weighs "only" 4,079 lbs. While not as powerful as the PHEV, the M3 CS is far from underpowered, claiming 543 hp from its twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, and in the run to the half-mile mark, this deficiency was laid bare, with the M5 Touring taking the flag first by a bumper. The power deficit was more obvious in a roll race, but in every case, the lighter M3 CS was closer than the on-paper figures might suggest. Where that lower mass made an even bigger difference was in the braking test. Related: BMW Alpina’s First Vision Concept Looks Like The Flagship Coupe BMW Is Missing The driver of the M5, Mat Watson, put the car into its most aggressive brake regeneration setting, but still failed to stop in as short a distance as the M3 CS Touring, taking an extra car length or so to come to a halt. Considering how much more buyers will be spending on tires and maintenance, that's not a good look for the M5, but at least it has greater practicality on its side. Along with being able to run in all-electric mode for an EPA-estimated 25 miles, the M5 Touring has a bigger rear end, swallowing up 27 cubic feet worth of luggage compared to the M3 CS Touring's 17.7 cubes. Not that it matters all that much to us, since the only BMW wagon sold in the United States is the M5. M3 Wagon Could Make It to America Someday Soon BMW While the current M3 Touring (CS or Competition) is not sold on our shores, that may soon change. BMW wants to sell more high-performance wagons in America because our market loves the unique blend of performance and practicality, and when the M5 Touring was launched here, it created more of a buzz than BMW anticipated. With BMW turning an M3 wagon into a racing car and the Neue Klasse 3 Series' longroof variant being teased recently, the automaker is clearly committed to the bodystyle. Hopefully, this new generation of 3 Series will finally be the one to put an M3 Touring on American roads without the driveway-shattering weight of the M5. View the full article

More Recreation Options for Honda and AcuraOverlanding isn't exactly a word we'd associate with Honda or Acura, though models like the Passport show that the companies are more than willing to appeal to that audience. Granted, Acura doesn't have a rugged-looking vehicle just yet, but it's safe to say that it's bound to happen. And with a more adventurous lifestyle comes accessories that will inevitably be attached to the car. With that, both Honda and Acura have partnered with Thule to sell its accessories through dealerships. So, for those planning to slap on some Thule accessories on their Honda or Acura, you don't have to leave the showroom to get those done. Honda The AccessoriesThis collaboration is called Honda Partnered Accessories, and for those interested, there are a couple of Thule accessories that one can fit to their Honda or Acura vehicle. There's a variety of roof boxes available, such as the Motion 3 and Force 3, while bike racks that can be fitted include the Epos and OutPace. Honda and Acura didn't forget about those who'd like to go fishing. The OnShore fishing rod box is readily available and can hold four fully rigged rods up to 12 feet long without the need to unthread or disassemble. Lastly, folks who regularly go on outdoor picnics can make the most of the OutLand Box Awning, which attaches to the side of the vehicle's roof. Acura What Cars Can Have These Accessories?Honda and Acura didn't mention any specific models that can be fitted with these Thule accessories. That suggests these are a universal fit for most models, so good news for those with any current-generation Honda or Acura model. We do see photos of these accessories fitted to the Passport Trailsport, CR-V, Odyssey, and Acura MDX, so anyone who owns any of those will know that it'll be a sure fit. Prices were not listed at the time of writing, so it's good to ask your nearest Honda or Acura dealer for details. But aside from being able to buy these Thule accessories, one can also have them fitted by the dealer, so you can drive off the lot with the bits attached from day one. Honda View the full article

Lotus will launch a new supercar 2028 featuring an all-new V8 hybrid powertrain as part of its Focus 2030 business strategy reset that ditches the electric-only focus and places emphasis on a multi-powertrain approach. In order to achieve a more flexible sustainable business model that will make the brand more resilient to shifting market conditions, Lotus will provide a diverse powertrain lineup built around the customer. “As regulatory and consumer landscapes continue to evolve globally at different speeds, Lotus will pursue an agile approach across ICE (internal combustion engine), PHEV (hybrid electric vehicle) and BEV (battery electric vehicle), targeting an approximately 60% PHEV / 40% BEV volume mix over its electrified portfolio in the short term, and a customer-led transition to full electrification,” the automaker said in a press release. A New Lotus Esprit on Steroids Is Coming Lotus Cars Building on its existing X-Hybrid PHEV powertrain available in the Eletre X in China, Lotus will reaffirm its performance DNA with what it calls its "first ever supercar" called Type 135—what about the 2,011-hp Evija electric hypercar, isn't that supercar enough? Slated to launch in 2028, Type 135 will be an all-new car featuring a V8 hybrid powertrain delivering over 986 horsepower (1,000 metric horsepower). Lotus expects to build the new model in Europe, but further details will be announced later this year. The automaker also released a teaser image of its hybrid supercar, showing a mean-looking rear end featuring two massive round exhaust tips, a chunky diffuser and two pairs of high-set horizontal LED lights. From this angle, the Lotus Type 135 appears to have a very sloped roofline with an almost horizontal rear window. Lotus There’s a clear resemblance between the Type 135 and the Lotus Theory 1 concept from 2024, which was designed to evoke the spirit of the Esprit and its F1 racing heritage. However, that car featured a twin-motor AWD battery-electric powertrain, whereas the production version has switched to a hybrid V8 setup. The last time Lotus sold a V8 model was in 2004, when the Lotus Esprit mid-engine sports car went out of production. Here's hoping that Lotus will revive the Esprit name with the new model; the Type 135 is a working name used during development. Lotus Back to Being Lotus Kyle Edward Lotus has promised that its V8 supercar will follow the brand’s old philosophy, suggesting a return to extreme lightweight engineering. “Lotus was born from the rebellious spirit of Colin Chapman, and that is not lost today,” said Lotus Group CEO Qingfeng Feng. “Focus 2030 will reset both the brand and the business to keep us true to our DNA. We are obsessed with engineering, obsessed with performance and obsessed with building drivers’ cars, and that is what will grow this business.” Regardless of product or powertrain, every future Lotus will be “developed against the same set of guiding principles: lightweight, aerodynamics, obsessive engineering and driver engagement,” reads Lotus’ press release. That’s reassuring to hear if you’re a Lotus fan who was confused by the company’s strategy in recent years. Under Focus 2030, Lotus has pledged to keep design and engineering rooted in the UK, home of its identity and motorsport expertise, and R&D in China to deliver rapid scale to market—Lotus is of course majority owned by China’s Geely Holding Group. Lotus also said that Lotus UK and Lotus Technology (the Chinese side of the business focusing on NEVs) will be merged into a single entity later this year, with the goal of “unifying the brand, streamlining governance, reducing costs and accelerating engineering integration for next-generation performance vehicles.” View the full article

BMW has a number of new motorcycles coming soon, with one seemingly being a performance-oriented bagger on the K1600 platform. But is that what this is?View the full article

A recent post on social media went viral, as it depicted a motorcycle dangling precariously from a traffic light pole, with many asking how that happened. Now, with security footage, we know. View the full article

The all-new Lexus ES sedan went on sale earlier this year in fully electric form, with hybrid variants set to arrive in showrooms in June. New powertrains and a fresh design aside, the automaker has now detailed its new Lexus Interface Multimedia Experience, which launched on the ES and will ultimately roll out to other models. It’s a smarter, more personalized and feature-rich system than before, while promising much-improved usability for an automaker that hasn’t always delivered on the infotainment front. Related: Lexus ES Hybrid Starts at $51K and Arrives in June Lexus Interface Multimedia System Overview Lexus The previous ES had a much more traditional layout with a small, standard eight-inch touchscreen and numerous quick-access buttons. In the new one, many of these buttons are gone, but the standard screen size has grown to 14 inches. All models get a 12.3-inch digital multi-information display ahead of the driver, too. Here’s a summary of the new features and improved functionality: First Lexus integration of AT&T 5G network connectivityFaster touchscreen response timesConfigurable home screen with individual widgetsQuick Control Menu on upper right of touchscreenFaster responses from Lexus Voice Assistant (male or female options)Native, cloud-based navigation now available in full screen in driver’s displayNew Drive RecorderDigital Key for up to five additional driversAvailable SiriusXM with 360LAvailable Spotify Lexus Interface: Drive Recorder Lexus View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article These improvements bring the ES right up to date with rivals, giving drivers and passengers access to a range of connectivity and entertainment options. Lexus has not forgotten ease of use, though. The configurable home screen and Quick Control Menu (allowing instant access to often-used functions like Bluetooth and screen brightness) prevent users from having to dig deep into the menus to find what they need. Integration of AT&T 5G improves connectivity speeds, which is useful for the range of streaming options. Do note, however, that some features require a subscription to Drive Connect or Remote Connect. The latter allows for remote control of features like the climate settings, the headlights, and even trunk access, all via the Lexus app. Safety and Convenience Come Standard, Too Lexus The latest infotainment system marks the debut of the Lexus Drive Recorder. This system can save 90 one-minute clips of continuous looping footage, and also saves vehicle speed and location data. Manual recording is also possible, and incident recordings can be triggered when the G-Sensor is triggered, such as during a collision. These clips can be viewed on the car’s display or downloaded via USB. For the electric variants specifically, the Lexus Interface introduces EV Charge Management. Using this, drivers can monitor and manage charging on the go. Charge limits and charging schedules can quickly be set, while navigation integration allows you to plan trips based on the location of public chargers. “We are excited for guests to experience something truly special,” said Brian Inouye, chief engineer, Connected Experiences Division. “We’ve made bold updates to Lexus Interface that deliver both function and performance, with every detail meticulously designed to delight, inform and entertain.” Related: 2026 Lexus ES Launches With LS-Level Rear-Seat Luxury What It Means Lexus Lexus has always been viewed as one of the top luxury brands for quality and reliability, but its vehicles often lagged behind German rivals for tech integration. The Remote Touch interface fitted to various vehicles for around a decade was a major weakness—as we experienced in the 2019 Lexus ES—with its mouse-like controller and touchpad being particularly frustrating to use. The new Lexus Interface Multimedia Experience successfully banishes memories of that much maligned system. It brings Lexus tech into the modern era and will do the same as it rolls out to other models in the brand’s lineup. This is now an automaker for tech-savvy drivers as much as it is for those who appreciate traditional luxury virtues like comfort, quality, and refinement. View the full article

Truth in Lending Act Whenever you sign off on a loan, be it from the bank or for a car with in-house financing, you'd want to know every single detail, or at least you should do your due diligence to get the information in front of you. Likewise, dealers and lenders are supposed to show you how much you will eventually pay before signing. Both parties are supposed to be transparent, though that might not be the case in this story, Automotive News reports. So what's happening with this Atlantic Kia dealership in New York and its customer? According to the plaintiff, Jean Garcia, the used vehicle they bought is priced "grossly-inflated" and "packed with costly hidden charges." According to the dealer, they extended a gesture in good faith. According to the client, forged documents were involved. The plot thickens. It Started with a Carnival This auto loan circus is nothing new, nor is the 2023 Kia Carnival that the customer and plaintiff bought secondhand from Atlantic Kia in West Islip, New York, in December 2025. According to him, Garcia was the victim of "a variety of sharp and deceptive sales practices." Garcia negotiated the price of the car down to $33,325 from $34,150 that the dealer was selling it for. He then made a $5,891 down payment and digitally signed the documents. One issue was that the included retail installment sales contract was in the documents that Garcia signed, which was not explained to him – allegedly. It was only after he reviewed the sales contract that Garcia realized the price had been inflated by $8,175, leaving him with a total of $41,500, according to the lawsuit. Lawyer's ReactionsGarcia's lawyer, Robert Nahoum of Pearl River, N.Y., stated that his client's "attempts to resolve the matter were met with persistent and continuing deception and obfuscation [by the dealer]." On the other hand, Kia New York's defense said that Garcia returned to the establishment to complain about the car's price after the deal. Graciously, Kia New York offered a "full refund" or a refund of $1,971 of Garcia's purchase price. Presented with these two options, Garcia declined both. Since Kia offered these two options, it has made an effort in good faith to smooth out the situation. Lawyer John Gentile, general counsel to the Atlantic Auto Group, stated that "the dealership did nothing wrong." However, Garcia contends that when he returned and asked the dealership about the discrepancy, he was shown an unsigned purchase order listing the higher price and obtained the sales documents from the lender. In doing so, he saw a purchase order with a forged signature, according to the suit. John Beltz Snyder Hidden Charges and Damages Other than the inflated price, the dealer also included some "hidden charges" in Garcia's purchase, which included a $695 "acquisition" fee, a $2,995 "inland freight charge", and a $1,895 "recondition" fee. None of the fees were included in any of the documents that Garcia signed and left unsigned. The plaintiff, Garcia, is seeking damages for the violation of New York's consumer protection and motor vehicle laws, false advertising, and fraud. The defendant is the lender, being the assignee of the sales contract. View the full article

KLIM has just launched an in-house-developed armor, which is made to tackle the problems adventure riders face. Alongside it is updated gear and an all-new helmet.View the full article

Suzuki’s new SV-7GX lands in France with approachable ergonomics, crossover styling, and a surprisingly reasonable price tag. View the full article

Ford’s New Power PlayIn 2025, Ford said it took a $19.5 billion hit tied to its electric vehicle business. That was behind Stellantis’ $26.2 billion hit, but still large enough to force a major strategy rethink, including the shift from an all-electric F-150 Lightning to a range-extender version. But instead of doubling down on EV models amid uncertain market conditions, the Blue Oval introduced Ford Energy, a wholly owned subsidiary aimed at developing battery energy storage systems (BESS). In a press release, Ford said Ford Energy will provide BESS for utilities, data centers, and large industrial and commercial customers in the United States. The systems will be assembled domestically in Glendale, Kentucky, at a site originally intended for EV battery production. That appears to align with current market and political realities, as federal policy has moved away from EV incentives and tougher emissions rules. Ford Not Your Typical Battery PackThe subsidiary’s flagship product will be the Ford Energy DC Block, a standardized 20-foot containerized battery energy storage system built around 512 Ah LFP prismatic cells. It will be available in two configurations, the FE-250 (two-hour system) and the FE-450 (a four-hour system). The Ford Energy DC Block is touted to offer “predictable lifetime performance, ease of service, and thermal stability.” Ford Energy will also produce electrode coils, assemble modules and containers, and provide sales and service support. Customer deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2027, with the company targeting 20 GWh of annual deployments. Ford The EV Fight ContinuesDespite the shift to BESS production and the broader EV slowdown, Ford will continue competing in the EV market. It still sells the Mustang Mach-E, which serves as an alternative to the Tesla Model Y and Hyundai Ioniq 5. A plan to introduce lower-cost EV models is also underway, with pricing expected to start at around $30,000. That could be a fitting response to the rise of affordable Chinese EVs, which may not be sold in the U.S. but continue to pressure automakers to adapt globally. How these strategic shifts will play out remains to be seen, though Ford is clearly investing in them. The company has committed $2 billion to retool the Kentucky plant for its BESS venture, while roughly $5 billion has been allocated for the Louisville Assembly Plant and BlueOval Battery Park Michigan to support new low-cost EVs and advanced prismatic LFP batteries. Ford View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

A meticulously reimagined interpretation of BMW’s legendary air-cooled boxer platform, this 1994 BMW R100R cafe racer by Diamond Atelier represents the fusion of classic Bavarian engineering and contemporary custom craftsmanship. Now offered on Bring a Trailer, the machine showcases the Munich marque’s durable R-series architecture transformed into an aggressively modernized performance-oriented build with unmistakable visual presence. Originally based on the R100R platform, the motorcycle has been comprehensively modified with a handcrafted café-style tail section, a Walzwerk subframe, and a black-and-gold […] The post FOR SALE: 1994 BMW R100R Cafe Racer by Diamond Atelier appeared first on Return of the Cafe Racers. View the full article

Carhartt has, in recent years, become a fashion brand beloved by streetwear aficionados. But its working-class roots are still present, and the brand's partnership with Ford, and is baked into this special edition F-Series Super Duty.View the full article

Davey Todd will miss the 2026 Isle of Man TT after being declared medically unfit due to injuries sustained at the Daytona 200, adding to the blow of also missing the North West 200. The post Davey Todd ruled out of 2026 Isle of Man TT appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Moto News Weekly Wrap May 12, 2026 What’s New: 2027 FIM Oceania Speedway confirmed for Gillman WSX 2026 field starts to take shape FIM Intercontinental Games move to Brazil Boughen wins FIM Flat Track debut Mulford reclaims FIM Long Track U23 crown 2026 AusProMX Round Three – Gillman Wrap 2026 AMA SX Round 17 – […] The post Moto News | WSX | Flat & Long Track | AusProMX | SX appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

A weekend storm that buried Southwest Alaska with 13 inches of snow and 90 mph gusts is not finished. NWS Anchorage confirms the original upper-level low is still spinning today, Tuesday May 12, 2026, while a 982 mb Bering Sea low merges with it over the Pribilof Islands in a textbook Fujiwhara Effect, with the worst remaining conditions pushing toward Kodiak and Southcentral Alaska. Peak Driving Danger WindowTuesday evening through early Wednesday delivers the highest-risk window on Kodiak Island and along Turnagain Arm, when 40 mph crosswinds overlap with wet snow refreezing into black ice on shaded shoulders and bridge decks. What to ExpectWind gusts: 40 mph on Kodiak Island, 30 mph along Turnagain Arm, 25 mph in Whittier and ValdezPrecipitation: wet snow across Anchorage and Mat-Su, rain switching to snow in Valdez after 10 PM Tuesday, isolated graupel in the Southwest InteriorRefreeze risk: overnight black ice on Anchorage, Mat-Su, and Turnagain Arm pavementThe combined low sits over the Pribilofs by Tuesday afternoon and tracks east through the Gulf overnight. This is the seasonal exception that proves the rule, with the WPC Winter Weather Desk having already gone on summer hiatus through late September. Road ConditionsKodiak's coastal segments and the Glenn Highway through Turnagain Pass are the most exposed paved routes, with crosswinds capable of pushing trailers and motorcycles across the lane line. Spring upslope refreeze causes more single-vehicle slide-offs in Alaska than the snowfall itself. Check the Alaska 511 system for live closures and chain advisories before any peninsula crossing. Crosswind Threat on Wyoming I-25 and I-90The same upper-level pattern driving Alaska's winds has the NWS Riverton point forecast showing 50 mph gusts Wednesday and 65 mph gusts Thursday along I-25 near Buffalo and the I-90 approach to Sheridan. WYDOT routinely restricts light trailers during sustained 60 mph events. Drivers should check wyoroad.info for corridor advisories before crossing the open prairie sections east of the Bighorns. Fire Weather Watch on Southwest Utah HighwaysNWS Salt Lake City has issued a Fire Weather Watch for Wednesday from 12 PM to 9 PM across portions of southwest Utah below 8,000 feet, with 40 mph southwest gusts pairing against 8 to 12 percent relative humidity. The driver-side concern is blowing dust on I-15 and US-89, where visibility can collapse below a quarter-mile in seconds and rear-end pileup risk spikes. Storm Driving TipsThree-Peak Mountain Snowflake (3PMSF) tires remain the minimum for ice-adjacent driving, with tread at 4/32 inch or deeper. Cold air drops tire pressure roughly 1 to 2 PSI per 10 degree Fahrenheit, so check cold pressures before leaving a heated garage. Plan for triple stopping distance on packed snow and skip cruise control on any compromised surface. See Autoblog's best cars and SUVs for snow and winter driving and snow, ice, and rain best practices for setup, and review NWS winter weather safety before any high-country crossing. TimingThe Fujiwhara merger peaks Tuesday afternoon over the Pribilofs and tracks east overnight, with Southcentral conditions easing Wednesday afternoon. A second Pacific wave is queued for the Alaska Peninsula and northern Gulf Friday and Saturday. The Wyoming wind event peaks Thursday afternoon, and the Utah Fire Weather Watch is a single-day Wednesday issue. We'll update this article as conditions evolve. View the full article

Only a Matter of TimeThe Audi Q9 is no secret. Several spy shots of the large SUV have been published, and the company said it's coming any time this year. After seeing its rivals own the full-size, three-row luxury crossover space for years, the folks from Ingolstadt reckon it's their turn to make a big impression on that segment. Its main rivals are none other than the BMW X7, which is due for a redesign, and the Mercedes-Benz GLS that was just given a facelift. Audi is determined to give its rivals a good scare, and has released first images of the Q9 for us to see. Audi Corporate LookOf course, Audi isn't showing all of its cards just yet. The exterior is still wrapped in camouflage, but we see more details of the SUV this time around. The Q9 follows the brand's corporate look, so there's a sizable grille up front, high-set daytime running lights, and bumper-mounted headlights. We can expect the next-generation Q7 to adapt a similar look. We're glad to report that the Q9 comes with regular door handles, likely to make it easier and less costly for Audi to sell in China. As for the size, it looks massive even in photos, making the current Q7 look even smaller than appears. A tall glasshouse is typical in this class, and the flared fenders aim to give it more presence. As for the rear, the tailgate is as wide as it gets with a low liftover for easy loading. The tail lights are then inspired by the A6 Avant, also employing a split design. Audi calls the SUV a prototype for now, this it's safe to say we're looking at the version that we'll be seeing in showrooms later this year. Honda Hopping InThere are two ways to open the doors, either manually or letting the motors do the work to swing it all the way by simply tugging the handle. Once on board, the now-familiar layout has been supersized, and, for once, it's nice to see a cabin not plastered with piano black trims. Of course, we'll know the full scope of its interior features once Audi publishes the rest of it. The Q9 shown in the preview comes with the optional captain's chairs. It is, of course, electrically-adjustable, and a floor-mounted center console takes the place of the middle seat. Those seats are also heated and ventilated with the option of adding a massage function. For those who plan to use this crossover as a family car, the good news is, second and third-row seats come with ISOFIX mounting points. Audi Other HighlightsThere's no mention if that massive panoramic sunroof is standard or not, but it does come with tech that allows it to be fully opaque, translucent, or totally transparent. Audi says it can block out a good amount of light with its glass roof, negating the need for a motorized cover. It automatically reverts to an opaque setting when parked. Of course, there's no shortage of ambient lighting in the Q9, and the 4D audio experience by Bang and Olufsen has been updated for a more immersive experience. As mentioned above, the doors are motorized, although another neat trick it can do is the ability to open all doors at once via the key fob or an app. We're also glad to see the appearance of more buttons inside. It won't be long before Audi unveils the Q9. The company says all will be revealed by summer this year. This will be a hugely important vehicle for the brand, especially for the North American market. U.S sales have tumbled, and 2026 has been difficult so far, and threatening tariffs won't make this model's debut any easier. Still, it should help bring in more customers into showrooms. Audi Audi View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Choosing oil for a motorcycle rarely gets the attention it deserves, yet it shapes how the engine feels day to day. Riders often learn this the hard way. The question tends to surface during routine servicing or when weighing up the right motorcycle engine oil in NZ, where conditions can shift without much warning. However, the right choice is less about brand loyalty and more about knowing what your engine is asking for. The right choice is less about brand […] The post How to Choose the Right Oil for Your Motorcycle Engine appeared first on Return of the Cafe Racers. View the full article