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Missing Them Until They're GoneThe BMW Z4 is one of the longest-standing cars in the Bavarian automaker's lineup, replacing the Z3 and continuing the roadster option for those who want the open-air BMW experience. While it has always been a solid seller, the times have changed against the Z4, and BMW is going to kill it off for now. When manufacturers announce that a car will be killed off, depending on the car, people will either not care or will flock to the dealers to get their hands on one before it goes. It seems the latter phenomenon is happening with the Z4 BMW Q1 BumpAccording to a report by BMW Blog, the current/outgoing BMW Z4 got a modest demand bump in the first half of 2026. This comes after the official production of the Z4 had already concluded; according to the report, the plant that produced the Z4 for the U.S. had already wrapped up production in April. BMW confirmed that the G29-generation Z4 would be going to pasture after the Final Edition launched in November 2025. Looking at the Q1 2026 sales numbers, demand for the Z4 rose by 4.9% compared to the same period last year, reaching a total of 2,555 cars. Despite this slight increase in demand, the Z4 remained ranked second in sales, besting only the outgoing BMW iX. Even if the Z4 was never a volume driver for BMW, when this G29 generation launched in 2018, it sold in respectable numbers, with a slow decline over the years as new competitors entered and industry preferences shifted. Sales started out strong in 2019 at 15,827 and reached their lowest point at 9,744 in 2025. BMW No Z For NowHaving seen the sales and industry trends, BMW has no intention of immediately replacing the Z with an all-new model. Right now, they are in the middle of rejuvenating their EV line with the debut of the Neue Klasse cars, and with sustained new EV launches planned in the future, it's expected that BMW's focus will be on that rather than a small-volume convertible sports car. BMW View the full article

On a big ol' bike, 35 horsepower might not sound like much, but on a 50-kilogram two-stroke scooter? Sending it at the 'Ring is insanity.View the full article

Siblings have qualified No. 1 together in the Red Line Oil PDRA Drag Racing Series’ Jr. Dragsters classes before – multiple times, in fact – but siblings qualifying No. 1 with “perfect” passes was unheard of until McKenzee and Jayden Hogan accomplished the feat at the recent Summit Racing Equipment East Coast Nationals presented by FuelTech at Darana Motorsports Park – Benson, NC. In PDRA Pro Jr. Dragster, drivers qualify against the 7.90 index. Classic Graphix Top Jr. Dragster, the younger division, sets the qualifying order based on reaction time. At the East Coast Nationals, McKenzee ran a 7.900-second pass to qualify No. 1 out of 44 drivers attempting to make the 32-car field. Five other drivers ran 7.90s behind her. Brother Jayden then cut a .000-second reaction time to lead Top Jr. Dragster, where two drivers went .00 behind him. “PDRA races always have our hearts pounding,” said their father, Skip Hogan. “All three qualifiers normally have our stomachs in our throats. During the PDRA race at Darana Motorsports Park was the first time we had both kids in their respective classes solidly. Friday during the second qualifier when we saw Jayden put a .000 on the board we were beyond thrilled. And then during the very same qualifying round, Kenzee put a 7.900 and we were beside ourselves, grinning from ear to ear. We were so proud of both of them. We knew there was still a chance that Kenzee could lose her spot if someone went faster, but we were hopeful. Saturday morning’s qualifier came and went. We couldn’t believe it. They did it.” PDRA records suggest siblings have qualified No. 1 together three times in series history, but using “perfect” performances of a 7.900 E.T. and a .000 reaction time to do so hadn’t occurred until the Hogans did it. The siblings took home $100 low qualifier bonuses from Classic Graphix, as well as custom No. 1 qualifier Victus baseball bats. “I was so excited,” McKenzee said. “I saw that 7.90 come up and couldn’t believe it.” “I have been working really hard on my lights and was excited I got No. 1 with my sister,” Jayden added. The PDRA’s Jr. Dragster classes, especially Pro Jr., have become increasingly competitive over the last several years as second- and third-generation young drivers hone their skills with hopes of someday moving up to “big cars,” whether that means a bracket dragster or a 3.50-second Pro Mod. Graduates of the PDRA Jr. Dragster program include two-time PDRA Pro Street world champion turned Pro Boost contender Ethan Steding, two-time PDRA Pro 632 world champion turned Pro Nitrous standout Amber Denton, and NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle star Brayden Davis. “Qualifying for Pro Junior is extremely difficult,” McKenzee said. “Everyone is always on their game.” With the No. 1 qualifier double-up checked off, the Hogan family now hopes to put both cars in the winner’s circle together someday soon. “We would like to thank our sponsors: O’Meara Realty, Red Line Oil, WO3, Thornton Motorsports for our horsepower, Computech for our weather station, and all our friends and family who support us,” Skip said. “We would also like to thank PDRA for allowing us to have a place to race and Classic Graphix for sponsoring the Jr. classes.” This story was originally published on May 7, 2026. The post Perfect Performance: Hogan Siblings Talk PDRA Jr. Dragster No. 1 Qualifying Double-Up first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Price Isn't An Issue BMW X3 and iX3 BMW View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article We've heard every argument on Earth against electric vehicles: they don't go far enough, they take too long to charge, and they cost too much. If you're shopping for a luxury vehicle in 2026, the upcoming 2027 BMW iX3 is about to put all of those excuses to bed. BMW just announced US pricing for the upcoming iX3, which will arrive at dealers on September 25. The dual-motor 50 xDrive model starts at $61,500 (plus a $1,350 destination and handling fee), which is less than a six-cylinder X3 M50 xDrive at $66,500. That's not a typo, the 463 horsepower iX3 costs $5,000 less than the most powerful ICE X3 with only 393 hp. Keep in mind, a less expensive version of the iX3 with a single-motor setup will likely arrive in 2027. EVs haven't just reached price parity with their ICE counterparts, BMW is actually selling the iX3 for less than the comparable X3. What Range Anxiety? Range anxiety is the second argument that's typically brought up with EVs, but the iX3 may finally put this talking point where it belongs: the past. The official EPA-rated range for the iX3 is even better than BMW anticipated; the car will travel up to 434 miles with the no-cost 20-inch wheels and summer tires, and the lowest it can go is still an impressive 383 miles. Wheel/Tire Range MPGe (Combined) 20-inch Summer Tires (No-cost option) 434 miles 118 20-inch All-Season Tires (Standard) 383 miles 102 21-inch Summer Tires 398 miles 105 21-inch All-Season Tires 399 miles 105 22-inch Summer Tires 392 miles 104 By comparison, a gas X3 M50 with a 17.2-gallon tank can travel up to 516 miles based on its 30 MPG highway fuel economy. That's only 82 miles more than the iX3, and considering it would take over six hours to drive 434 miles at a 70 mph average speed, we imagine most people would stop at least once before driving that far anyway. At the X3's 27 MPG combined average, the tank would only last 464 miles, barely 30 miles more than the iX3. Quick Stops BMW When the iX3's battery inevitably does get emptied on a long trip, or your bladder is full, those pit stops won't take long thanks to the car's impressive 800-volt architecture. Assuming you can plug-in at a 400 kW charger, the iX3 can add 185 miles of range back in just 10 minutes. You may not even have time to buy a sandwich in that time. In 21 minutes, it will go from 10-80% charge, meaning you will have around 347 miles of range (assuming you have the best wheel/tire combo). Admittedly, 400 kW chargers are rare in the US, so it may take longer to charge the iX3's sizable 112.2 kWh battery depending on where you plug in. This is an infrastructure issue though, not an issue with the car. The Excuses Are Gone BMW China Let's say you say you still aren't convinced; the prospect of an electric X3 that's less expensive, more powerful, and goes further than most people need on a daily basis still doesn't appeal to you on the off chance you might want to drive 500 miles in one day. Fine. Why not use the $5,000 savings from the iX3 to rent a gas-powered X3? We checked the prices on Sixt to rent a BMW X3, and found rates for around $105 per day. That means you would have enough money saved up from choosing the iX3 50 over the X3 M50 to rent a gas-powered X3 for approximately 47 days, if you planned to take a road trip and wanted an equivalent vehicle. We aren't even factoring your fuel savings, which would give you even more to spend should you need to rent a car for your hypothetical road trip. There are some other associated costs to owning an EV, like installing a charger, but they will more than balance out when you no longer pay for oil changes and other maintenance items. The iX3 is priced so well, there are no excuses not to choose it over a gas-powered X3. View the full article

In countries like the Philippines, scooters and motorcycles are rapidly becoming the most sensible way to survive rising fuel costs.View the full article

Another Piece To The PuzzleEarlier this year, Tesla quietly updated the Roadster’s wordmark with a trademark filing. Now there’s another one, this time showing what looks like the new emblem. Shared by Sawyer Merritt on X, it hints at how Tesla wants the long-awaited Roadster to stand apart from the rest of its lineup. Filed just last month, the application covers more than the car. Tesla’s stylized 'ROADSTER' mark applies to EVs, charging gear, apparel, and even vehicle services. The application is still pending review. I found something cool. Tesla has filed a new trademark application for its next-generation Roadster. It could be the new Roadster logo/badge. The filing says the lines depict speed, propulsion, heat or wind. (I took the liberty of making the logo red. Trademark filings are… pic.twitter.com/W9JSDwTRL7 — Sawyer Merritt (@SawyerMerritt) May 6, 2026 More Like A Badge Than A WordmarkThe new emblem isn’t just a rehash of the old Roadster font. Tesla put the wordmark inside a polygon with bent edges, turning it into a proper emblem. The design is aggressive. A triangle-inspired outline frames the wordmark, and four vertical bars rise from the bottom. The filing also mentions stylized speed lines built into the shape. Tesla says the lines stand for “speed, propulsion, heat, or wind.” Compared to the usual clean Tesla look, this one is much busier. It looks more like a badge from a sci-fi racing game than something you’d expect on a production car. Maybe that’s intentional, since the Roadster is supposed to be the brand’s performance flagship. USPTO The Only Tesla You Can Drive in the FutureThe new emblem feels a bit odd, to be honest. It’s angular and layered, almost too stylized for a car badge. It reminds me more of a gaming logo than what you’d expect on the front of a flagship EV. But then again, that’s just one man’s opinion. That said, the Roadster itself still carries plenty of intrigue despite the endless delays since the 2017 Roadster Concept was introduced. As the only Tesla you can drive in the future, the automaker originally promised outrageous numbers for the next-generation model, including a claimed 0-60 mph time of under two seconds, a top speed beyond 250 mph, and around 620 miles of range. There was also the now-famous mention of a possible SpaceX package using cold-gas thrusters. Over time, the Roadster has shifted from a real product to more of a Tesla legend. We get the occasional update or comment from Elon Musk, but actual progress toward deliveries is still missing. Tesla View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Why Modern Engines Use Ultra-Thin OilAs everyone who owns an ICE car should know, oil changes are an integral part of maintaining a vehicle. Skip them for tens of thousands of miles and the results can become catastrophic, as seen in teardown videos of neglected engines that end up full of sludge and metal contamination. Modern engines also rely heavily on the correct oil viscosity. Newer vehicles use tighter internal tolerances, which is why automakers like Toyota now factory-fill many new models with ultra-thin 0W-8 oil instead of older blends like 5W-30 or 0W-20. That raises an interesting question, though. What happens if you pour modern ultra-thin oil into an old high-mileage engine designed decades before 0W-8 even existed? The TooManyToyotas YouTube channel decided to find out using a 1991 Toyota Camry with more than 330,000 miles on the odometer. The car’s 2.0-liter 3S-FE engine was already burning oil before the experiment began. According to the owner, it consumed roughly one quart every 500 to 750 miles on thicker oil. Once the switch to 0W-8 happened, the numbers became borderline absurd. After just 530 miles, the tired four-cylinder burned through 2.7 quarts of oil. Considering the engine only holds 4.3 quarts total, the Camry was essentially replacing most of its oil supply every thousand miles. This 330,000-Mile Camry Couldn’t Handle 0W-8The YouTuber documented the entire process in detail. Oil samples were collected for laboratory testing, spark plugs were inspected for signs of oil fouling, and B-12 Chemtool additive was poured into the cylinders to loosen carbon buildup. The owner even used a borescope camera to inspect the piston tops after the treatment. Heavy carbon deposits were clearly visible, although some appeared to burn away after the cleaning process and spirited driving sessions. The financial side of the experiment is what really drives the point home. Genuine Toyota 0W-8 oil can cost around $11.50 per quart. Combined with current fuel prices and the Camry’s original 26 mpg combined fuel economy rating, the owner estimated the car would cost more than $230 in fuel and replacement oil every 1,000 miles. At that point, the old Toyota was practically operating like a giant two-stroke engine. The owner calculated it was burning oil at roughly a 37:1 fuel-to-oil ratio, which is close to what some mopeds run from the factory. Despite the smoke and consumption, the engine still maintained decent oil pressure at operating temperature, hovering around 22 PSI at warm idle. YouTube / @toomanytoyotas2301 The Experiment That Proved Oil Choice Still MattersCar enthusiasts are extremely particular about oil viscosity for good reason. Using the wrong oil can have serious consequences. Some automakers and oil companies have even faced lawsuits related to improper oil recommendations or service procedures. Modern engines are engineered around specific lubrication properties, and deviating too far from those requirements can accelerate wear or even lead to failure. In this case, the ancient high-mileage Toyota engine simply could not control the ultra-thin 0W-8 oil the same way a modern engine can. At the same time, experiments like this remain fascinating because they show just how dramatically engine technology has evolved over the decades. Today’s hybrids and EVs continue pushing efficiency even further, with electric vehicles largely eliminating traditional oil changes altogether. Still, stories like this remind enthusiasts why maintenance details matter so much. The TooManyToyotas Camry may have survived the experiment so far, but it also delivered a clear lesson. Just because modern oil exists does not mean every old engine is ready for it. YouTube / @toomanytoyotas2301 View the full article

If I sold one bike last year, and I sold two bikes this year, guess what? That means my sales jumped by 100 percent! Cool story, right? That's the game Harley-Davidson's LiveWire is playing. View the full article

Despite reports to the contrary, Jaguar is sticking with an all-electric strategy, and it's making progress on the production version of the polarizing concept revealed in 2024. The concept was called the Type 00, and internally, the car bears the codename X900, but neither of these names will be used when the 1,000-horsepower luxury car is officially launched. What will that name be? We don't know yet, but according to a report from Autocar India, Jaguar will confirm the nomenclature of the production vehicle on 12 May. That's next Tuesday, and it's possible that Jaguar could reveal additional info to whet the appetites of prospective buyers. The publication also claims that the reveal will take place in September, with the first customer cars on the road early next year. What to Expect From Jaguar's Wild New EV Jaguar Recent spy shots of Type 00 prototypes (we'll keep calling it that until the true moniker is revealed) have shown the grand tourer testing with 23-inch wheels, and the body of the vehicle indicates that it will be a four-door four-seater. That body will also get snazzy new paint that is supposed to make the vehicle look like it's glowing, which is just the sort of ludicrous novelty expected when the product carries a six-figure price (potentially as high as $160,000) and aims to take buyers out of Rolls-Royces and Bentleys. The vehicle will sit atop the Jaguar Electric Architecture and is predicted to deliver around 480 miles of range on a single charge, with the ability to recoup around 200 miles of range in 15 minutes when using a suitable charger. Related: RECALL: Every Jaguar, Land Rover, and Range Rover Hybrid SUV Model Has a Fatal Flaw We also expect large screens to dominate the cabin, and one of them will be used to show what's behind the vehicle, as both the concept and the prototypes we've spotted have been fitted with a solid panel instead of a rear windshield, a la Polestar 4. The monolithic GT will certainly be a strange sight, but perhaps that weirdness will draw its own fanbase. Jaguar's New EV Won't Make Drivers Sick Jaguar Some of the British press were invited to experience the new Jag late last year, and they reported that the tri-motor, 1,000-hp powertrain has been tuned to deliver linear power delivery rather than stomach-churning explosiveness off the line. Ferrari is taking a similar approach with its upcoming EV, the Luce. The media also reported that the vehicle was eerily quiet and refined, befitting the sort of segment Jaguar wants to compete in. Adaptive air suspension and torque vectoring should translate to a sumptuous ride and surprisingly good handling, respectively. Jaguar is almost ready to put its wild new EV out into the world, and if its name is revealed this month, it won't be long before the internet can have its inevitable collective meltdown. Whatever the keyboard warriors have to say will be irrelevant if Jaguar can sell this thing in decent numbers, but given how even the Rolls-Royce Spectre EV has been discounted at times to try to attract buyers, a pure EV may be a tough sell. View the full article

It’s time for more IHRA Outlaw Nitro Series racing action baby! They are back at it, coming to you from IHRA Darana Dragway National Trail in Ohio, where racers are going to be battling it out for big money in all classes. I can’t wait to see who’s going to take the money home this weekend and you can watch all the action right here on the livestream below. We’re talking Pro Am sportsman drag racing, Nitro and door slammer Pro classes, and so much more! The post FREE IHRA Outlaw Nitro Series Spring Nationals LIVESTREAM – Pro Am Time Trials & Qualifying From Darana Raceway appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

The majority of models in Subaru’s U.S. lineup have been implicated in a new class action lawsuit for a persistent battery drain problem. Despite many owners replacing their batteries, the lawsuit claims the issue will simply return due to a larger defect within the electric systems of the vehicle, resulting in parasitic drain. Plaintiffs claim that they’ve had to spend extra cash on diagnostic costs, roadside assistance, and complete battery replacements, besides the inconvenience of being left stranded by cars that won’t start. Here’s everything we know. Subaru Battery Class Action Lawsuit Subaru The lawsuit’s multiple plaintiffs hail from New York, New Jersey, California, and Texas. All have had problems with their cars either being unable to start or shutting down/stalling in traffic due to issues with the battery and electric system. The lawsuit, shared by Car Complaints, alleges that power consumption is inadequately managed by the electric system when the vehicle is off, with at least one electronic control module failing to put the vehicle into the correct low power sleep mode. This leads to parasitic battery drain that can happen at any time. The following Subaru models have been mentioned in the lawsuit: 2021-2022 Subaru Outback2021-2024 Subaru Forester2021-2023 Subaru Legacy2021-2023 Subaru WRX2021-2022 Subaru Ascent2019-2023 Subaru Crosstrek2019-2024 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid2022-2025 Subaru Forester Wilderness2019-2023 Subaru ImprezaThe Forester and Crosstrek are some of Subaru’s best-selling models in the country, so there are potentially a very large number of affected vehicles. Christina Taylor, the plaintiff from New York, purchased a 2021 Subaru Forester and first ran into trouble with starting the vehicle at 36,705 miles. She replaced the battery for $326 initially, but it failed again at 72,678 miles. The dealer replaced it for free but she claims that rough starts are still an issue. Other plaintiffs have had similar experiences and have had to replace batteries for up to $434. Not The First Lawsuit For Subaru Batteries Subaru More than one lawsuit has been filed for the battery issue in Subarus. In 2022, a settlement was reached between the automaker and a separate group of plaintiffs. In it, Subaru insisted the vehicles were fine, but in the proposed settlement, the automaker agreed to pay 100% of the first battery replacement for up to five years or 60,000 miles. That doesn’t directly resolve the issue of continued parasitic drain, which eventually affects new batteries, too. In the 2026 lawsuit, the owner of a 2024 Outback had a larger replacement battery and bracket installed, indicating that the original was inadequate. In October 2025, Subaru issued a bulletin on how to correctly test for parasitic battery drain, with the aim to address “the tendency of technicians to prematurely attribute parasitic draw to the Data Communication Module.” We visited the NHTSA and Car Complaints and found numerous complaints from customers who have had battery issues. For the Subaru Outback, the single most reported problem is for dead batteries on 2017 Outbacks, a model not even included in this latest lawsuit. This suggests there is an underlying electrical flaw. Related: Toyota and Subaru Sued as EV Owners Claim Batteries Fail in Just Months What It Means Subaru Whereas an issue like a defective airbag often results in an immediate recall—due to not meeting federal safety standards—the Subaru battery issue is more challenging to resolve. The automaker’s findings of there being no underlying flaw conflicts sharply with the experiences of many customers, who have had repeated battery failures. While some lawsuits can unfortunately take months or years to reach a resolution, there’s hope for owners that legal pressure will compel Subaru to initiate a recall. Until that happens, many may have to grapple with more frequent battery replacements. View the full article

The first outing of Aprilia's 850cc MotoGP prototype at Jerez signals a major shift in racing philosophy. View the full article

The new AGV K7 motorcycle helmet delivers wide vision, comfort, and stability in a package that feels a little too convincing. View the full article

We’ve got more fun junkyard inventory from our friend Chad Ehrlich at Nobody Else’s Auto in Great Bend Kansas. This week Chad is sharing this awesome 1963 Custom Cab Ford pickup. These trucks are something special and I love the look. But does this Custom Cab check all the boxes? Let’s see what Chad has to say about it. Video Description: If you like old cars, trucks, and automobilia, be sure to check out all of my other videos! Please subscribe so you can keep up with the new videos as I post them! If you have questions about vehicles or parts, the only way to get a hold of me is to call me, 8 AM-8 PM CST, no texts, no e-mails, no messenger, no smoke signals, calls only. 620-786-4428 If I don’t answer, I’m probably on the phone with someone else and if you don’t leave me a message, I just assume you’re another telemarketer trying to sell me an extended warranty! LOL! I am located in Great Bend, KS and I am not open to the public, so if you show up without calling and making an appointment, don’t expect me to be available. Shipping is available. If you comment, message, text, e-mail, etc., don’t expect me to find it and don’t expect an answer. Thanks for watching, Chad 620-786-4428 The post New Junkyard Inventory! This 1963 Ford Custom Cab Pickup Is Cool! But Does It Check All The Boxes for a Custom Cab? appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

We’ve been fans of the Dakar Rally for decades, and we love to share coverage from the race here whenever possible. It’s been an interesting journey for the Dakar Rally in the last 10 years or so and it just keeps getting more and more competitive. It’s a challenge for drivers, cars, crew, and teams, and we love watching all the action. But when we saw that the Dakar Rally organizers were livestreaming the 2027 Route Announcements, we knew we should share. So here you go, the livestream replay for you to enjoy is below. Check it out and see what the route is going to be and how it compares to 2026. The post The 2027 Dakar Rally Route Has Been Announced! Check Out Where It’s Going Below! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

The Harley-Davidson Sportster was a fan favorite, but the company killed it after taking a loss on every single motorcycle. But now, with a new CEO, he's bringing it back, along with an entry-level motorcycle that's priced under $10,000. View the full article

I am willing to bet that there probably isn’t anyone who’s cut more stuff off of Freiburger’s Muscle Truck than I have. Since I was there for the original build, as part of our CarJunkieTV website, I can tell you a lot about what it took to build this thing the first time so we could drive it cross country and show it off at the LSX Shootout in Memphis in 2008. There is a ton that has gone into this truck over the years, but one of the funniest things that I remember was the perfect floors. When we cleaned out the interior the paint on the floors was nicer than any paint on the rest of the truck. It was nuts. And we didn’t want to scratch it all up. But we did want to cut up the rest of it. This is one of the earlier LS Swaps in a C10 that most people had heard about, and boy has this thing been fun. Check out the story from Freiburger, and if you guys want to hear more let me know and maybe I’ll do one of my own. Video Description: Get OG MUSCLE TRUCK T-shirts here: https://shop.davidfreiburger.com/ The OG Muscle Truck from Roadkill and Hot Rod Magazine has been in my fleet since perhaps as long ago as late 2006, and I never would have thought that a simple LS swap and a shrieking exhaust sound would turn this beater into one of the best known Squarebody C10s on Earth. Here’s the complete story, from the day I bought the truck for $1500, through every episode of Roadkill and Roadkill Garage, and into the plans for what’s next.—D/F Thanks to Amir Saidi for the thumbnail pic. The post Here’s The Story Of Freiburger’s Original Muscle Truck, And How We Helped Make This Awesome Squarebody A Thing! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

This 1967 Mercury Comet is a really cool Nostalgia Super Stocker that brings back memories of some cool Mercury drag cars I grew up with at Fremont Dragstrip in Northern California. One of my favorites was the Team Smokey Bear 1964 Mercury Comet. It was a Super Stock M Automatic car, so was small block powered, but it was still a fun car to watch. Check out this cool vintage hot rod as Evan gives us all the details and shares some fun action video of it going down track. Video Description: Dan Parson Jr. tells REVan Evan about his winning 1967 Mercury Comet 202 with a monster FE under the fiberglass hood! See all our videos from the recent FE Race and Reunion here on the REVan Evan channel. The post Drag Race Feature: This 900HP, 511 Cubic Inch FE Powered, 1967 Mercury Comet Nostalgia Super Stocker Runs 9s! appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Master your charging system: calculate true idle amp draw, respect the 18,000 RPM limit, and ensure a perfect engine ground.View the full article

A Tornado Emergency, the highest-tier warning the NWS (National Weather Service) issues, is active across central Mississippi tonight, Thursday, May 7, 2026, after a confirmed violent tornado tracked east of Meadville at 50 mph and a second tornado developed near Brookhaven along I-55. The squall line is sweeping east into Alabama, Georgia and the Carolinas overnight as part of a multi-day severe weather outbreak across Dixie Alley. Peak Driving Danger WindowThe greatest risk runs from this evening through the overnight hours along I-55 between Jackson and McComb and along I-20 east into Meridian, where supercells are tracking at 35 to 50 mph and NWS Jackson has explicitly told drivers not to travel the interstate as cells pass. What to ExpectTornado risk: Two confirmed large tornadoes already on the ground in Mississippi, with additional supercells capable of all hazards forecast overnight.Wind gusts: Damaging gusts to 70 mph within the warm sector, supported by 850-mb southwesterly flow at 35 to 40 knots.Hail and rain: Mixed-layer CAPE near 2,500 J/kg supports large hail; up to 4 inches of rainfall expected through Monday May 11.Worst corridors: I-55 (Jackson to McComb), I-20 (Jackson to Meridian), I-65 (Birmingham to Montgomery) and I-85 into Atlanta overnight.The setup is driven by the same massive cold front that produced Colorado snow earlier this week. Mid-60s to lower-70s dewpoints south of the front and strong shear aloft are sustaining long-track supercells overnight, per the Storm Prediction Center. Road ConditionsI-55 was directly in the path of the Brookhaven tornado, and Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves activated state Search and Rescue. With supercell tracks crossing I-20 and I-65 into Birmingham and Atlanta overnight, expect unannounced closures, debris on the roadway, and cells reaching Upstate South Carolina by sunrise. Hail to 2 inches or larger is plausible within the strongest cells, and any vehicle parked in the open is exposed to serious damage. Our breakdown of whether car insurance covers storm damage covers comprehensive versus liability before claims pile up. The Mississippi DOT traffic map tracks active closures. Flash Flood Risk Across the Lower Mississippi ValleyHeavy to excessive rainfall is producing flash flooding from the Lower Mississippi Valley into the southern Appalachians, per the WPC. Multiple flood watches are active across Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee and northern Georgia, with up to 4 inches of rain through Monday May 11 as storm rounds train over the same ground. Drivers on I-10, I-20 and I-65 should expect ponding, hydroplaning, and barricaded low-water crossings. Flooded vehicles often resurface on used-car lots months later, our guide to spotting flood-damaged vehicles is worth bookmarking before any post-storm shopping. Severe Storm Driving TipsIf you are caught on the road with a tornado approaching, do not try to outrun it. Tornadoes change direction faster than highway speeds and debris fields extend well beyond the visible funnel. Pull off, exit the vehicle, and shelter in a sturdy structure or low ditch. Underpasses are not shelter, they create wind tunnels that accelerate debris. Even storm chasers with armored vehicles get overrun, our piece on how stormchasers drive inside a tornado is a useful reality check. For flash flooding, the NWS Turn Around Don't Drown rule applies: 6 inches of moving water can knock down an adult, 12 inches can carry away a small car, and 18 to 24 inches sweeps away most SUVs and trucks. Check tire tread (4/32 minimum for heavy rain), top off washer fluid, and disengage cruise control once rain starts. TimingTornado risk peaks tonight across central and eastern Mississippi, shifting into Alabama and Georgia overnight. Friday May 8 carries continued severe potential along the central Gulf Coast and into the Carolinas. Saturday May 9 a new SPC-flagged severe weather setup targets Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas as the next shortwave trough fires Plains storms. We'll update this article as conditions evolve. View the full article

Up to three feet of snow could blanket the Eastern Alaska Range backcountry this weekend while 90 mph gusts hammer the Alaska Peninsula, putting the Richardson Highway corridor in the path of a multi-day winter assault. The National Weather Service Anchorage office issued a Winter Storm Watch today, Thursday May 7, 2026, layered atop active Winter Weather Advisories and High Wind Warnings that stretch from Bristol Bay through the eastern Aleutians. Peak Driving Danger WindowSunday morning through Monday afternoon delivers the worst conditions for the Richardson Highway between Glennallen and Delta Junction, when 12 to 18 inches of new snow will combine with steep grades and refreeze on shaded passes above 2,500 feet. What to ExpectSnow totals: 12 to 18 inches at highway level in the Eastern Alaska Range; 24 to 36 inches possible in higher backcountry terrainLower Kuskokwim Valley: 9 to 13 inches expected through Sunday morningBristol Bay north of King Salmon: 8 to 12 inches expected through Sunday morningWind gusts: 90 mph in Alaska Peninsula channels, 80 mph across the eastern Aleutians and Pribilof Islands, 75 mph on the Kuskokwim Delta CoastWorst corridors: Richardson Highway (AK-4), Tok Cutoff (AK-1), and Glenn Highway approaches near Eureka SummitThe setup is a textbook late-season Bering Sea storm: a deep low off the Aleutians dragging Pacific moisture northeast, then riding upslope into the Alaska Range where orographic lift wrings out the heaviest totals. Road ConditionsThe Richardson Highway is the most exposed paved corridor of the weekend. The stretch from Glennallen north through Isabel Pass routinely sees the worst conditions of any road in the state during spring upslope events, and AKDOT&PF maintenance windows tighten quickly when warning-level snow lands above 2,500 feet. Drivers should check Alaska 511 for chain advisories, closures, and live camera feeds before departure. AWD alone will not save you on glaze ice; review our AWD vs 4WD breakdown before committing to a long-haul drive. Winter Driving TipsTread depth matters more than tire badge. Confirm your snow tires read at least 4/32 inches across the contact patch; below that you are driving on summer rubber regardless of the sidewall stamp. Cold air drops tire pressure roughly 1 to 2 PSI per 10 degree Fahrenheit drop, so check pressures before leaving a heated garage. On packed snow, plan for triple your normal stopping distance. For long Interior runs, see our winter driving practices guide and best vehicles for snow roundup, and review NWS winter weather safety before departure. TimingWinter Weather Advisories and High Wind Warnings run tonight through Sunday morning. The Winter Storm Watch covers Sunday morning through Monday afternoon, with peak Richardson Highway impacts Sunday night into Monday morning. NWS Anchorage discussions flag a second Bering Sea low queued for midweek that could re-energize the same corridors. We'll update this article as conditions evolve. View the full article

RZ, Meet Your Bigger BrotherWhile Toyota isn't exactly going all in on electric vehicles, it's still churning these out from time to time. That said, its luxury division has only one EV offering: the RZ. Well, that changes today as Lexus has just introduced the TZ, a larger, three-row battery-powered crossover. In many ways, it complements the fuel-fed TX and serves as an option for Lexus loyalists who have been wishing for a larger EV crossover from the company. At the same time, the TZ has two main competitors it has set its sights on: the Cadillac Vistiq and the Volvo EX90. Lexus 2027 Lexus TZ: The BasicsTo oversimplify the TZ, it's the luxury version of the new-generation Highlander, itself going EV-only, leaving hybrid powertrains to the larger Grand Highlander. At the same time, it shares the same platform as the Subaru Getaway, which was revealed at the New York Auto Show. For dimensions, the TZ measures 200.8 inches long, 78.3 inches wide, and 67.1 inches tall, and rides on a lengthy 120.1-inch wheelbase. It's over an inch longer than the Highlander EV, and ever so slightly lower, although width and wheelbase are exactly the same. Behind the third-row seats, Lexus claims a cargo capacity of 13.8 cu. ft. As for powertrain options, there are two battery sizes available. In this case, there's a choice between 76.96 kWh and 95.82 kWh. It's still unclear whether two power output options will be offered. The company did reveal that the model it presented makes 402 hp and it lays it down via a DIRECT4 all-wheel drive system. The estimated range is rated at 300 miles. Lexus What Else Does it Offer?Lexus says the TZ is built around its Driving Lounge Concept. In other words, there are acres of space, soothing earth tones in the cabin, and heaps of comfort. The brand is quite proud of using bamboo for its interior trim and of its panoramic sunroof, which stretches all the way to the third row to let even more light into the cabin. What Lexus showed was a six-seater version with the middle row consisting of captain's chairs. It's possible that a seven-seater might be offered for lower trims. Also thrown in as standard is Lexus Safety System+ 4.0, which comes with the usual array of advanced driver assists, plus emergency steering assist, intersection turn assist, and a degree of semi-autonomous driving capabilities. As for infotainment, it features the brand's latest software, which also includes 5G connectivity. Improvements include more personalization, EV charge management options, and enhanced processing power. Lexus Other HighlightsOne of the interesting options for the TZ is four-wheel steering. It can turn the rear wheels by up to 4 degrees, and changes angle depending on speed. Another worthwhile option is the power captain's chairs that also include ventilation. Additional entertainment features are also available, including SiriusXM with 360L and integrated Spotify streaming. The TZ can also pipe in sounds if things get a little too silent inside. Dubbed Active Sound Control, it can channel 'musical chord sequences' or even the V10 wail from the LFA...in a family crossover. This luxury EV also goes beyond the usual drive modes by coming with what's called Rear Comfort Mode. In essence, it puts the accelerator on a more relaxed setting, and the electronically-controlled dampers work overtime to keep those seated at the back as detached from any road harshness as possible. Pricing has yet to be revealed, and so too are the trims. We'll know the full story once Lexus publishes these, and the 2027 will reach showrooms by late 2026. Lexus View the 7 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

2026 North West 200 Wednesday Report The North West 200 got off to a cautious start today in less-than-ideal conditions, with many competitors gingerly lapping the seaside circuit to bank qualifying laps, rather than going for fast times. It was the kind of day when experience won through and it was the elder statesmen on […] The post Brookes tops wet Wednesday in Superstock at North West 200 appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

The Rivian R2 has the potential to become an even bigger thing for the company than everyone expected. It goes without saying that the midsize electric SUV will target a much larger demographic than the existing high-end R1S and R1T, but it looks like the growth potential of the R2 will be even more significant. That’s because Rivian is reportedly developing additional variants of the R2 that it hasn’t disclosed previously. While Rivian recently began volume production of the R2 at its Illinois plant, CEO RJ Scaringe told Reuters the new Georgia plant is being built to support multiple versions of the R2 platform, allowing flexibility as the EV maker ramps up production. Rivian R2 Pickup and R2X Performance Model Not Ruled Out Rivian While Scaringe did not get into details, he did suggest R2 versions may include pickup or performance models. "There are other variants of R2, which we haven't shown,” Scaringe said in an interview with the news agency when asked about a pickup variant of the R2. “What we're building in Georgia allows for different variations,” he added. Rivian previously said the R2 midsize platform would also underpin a smaller R3 crossover and the R3X performance variant further down the line, but it looks like an R2X performance model is also in the cards. "So clearly there could be an R2X," Scaringe said. "There's going to be combinations. I want to be careful not to announce the program.” While that’s great news, Rivian needs to nail the R2 rollout first, as deliveries of the new model are expected to start around June. In March, the company has announced various trims of the R2 SUV, including a $58,000 R2 Performance Launch Edition model, a $53,990 R2 Premium trim coming before the end of the year, and the $48,490 R2 Standard arriving in the first half of 2027. Mind you, the long-awaited $45,000 entry-level R2 trim will become available by late 2027. Expected to offer over 275 miles of range, the base Rivian R2 is likely to significantly expand the company’s customer base. The R2 Is Expected to Boost Rivian Deliveries by 53% This Year Rivian Rivian expects deliveries to jump 53% this year driven by the launch of the R2. Assuming a smooth production ramp and steady demand, the company expects to deliver roughly 22,000-23,000 R2s, contributing to a significant increase in Rivian’s EV market share. Initially, the R2 is being built at the existing plant in Normal, Illinois. But the midsize electric SUV will also be built at the new factory in Georgia, which is expected to start production in 2028; the smaller R3 and R3X will also be made at the site. Rivian has been awarded a $4.5 billion loan from the Department of Energy to build the plant, and the company will begin to access the loan next year. Initially, the loan was supposed to amount to $6.57 billion, but on April 30 Rivian announced that it renegotiated the terms in order to draw on the loan sooner and have greater initial production. As a result, the Georgia plant is now projected to have an annual output of 300,000 vehicles given the uncertain demand for all-electric vehicles, down from an initial projected capacity of 400,000. Rivian’s new factory will also build the 10,000 autonomous R2 robotaxis contracted by Uber as part of a $1.25 billion deal. Rivian View the full article

The Fight Over Driving DataThe court has ruled that the lawsuit against General Motors over alleged data privacy violations involving OnStar can proceed. Car Complaints reported that about 30 class actions were consolidated into a single lawsuit, though some claims were dismissed. For context, GM is being sued for allegedly collecting vehicle and driver data through OnStar and selling it to third parties, including insurance companies. OnStar is a connected service that provides functions such as smartphone controls and vehicle diagnostics, which came free with every vehicle purchase in 2015. The issue, according to the plaintiffs, is that GM failed to adequately disclose that part of the subscription involved gathering driver data. Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images Driving Data Has ValueSome of that data reportedly includes instances of “hard braking, hard acceleration, driving without a seat belt, driving over 80 miles per hour, and late-night driving.” Insurance companies could use this information to increase rates or deny coverage based on a car owner’s driving behavior. There is also the cybersecurity concern, especially if that data is hacked and leaked. In response, General Motors argued that vehicle owners consented to data collection by using OnStar, and that the terms of service still applied even if customers did not read them. Moreover, the Michigan-based automaker claimed it did not violate privacy because OnStar subscribers were driving in public rather than “in seclusion.” Nonetheless, the court reportedly allowed more than 40 claims against GM to proceed, including allegations involving the Stored Communications Act, Fair Credit Reporting Act, and Federal Wiretap Act. Chevrolet The Tradeoff of Modern TechnologyThis case is similar to a lawsuit against Toyota, in which a 2021 RAV4 owner accused the Japanese automaker of selling driver data to third-party companies through Connected Services, which works much like OnStar. The issue raises broader privacy concerns, especially as more vehicles rely on data to enable smart features such as advanced driver-assistance systems, which use cameras and sensors to detect potential hazards. Perhaps the dispute could force automakers to be clearer about consent, especially as connected-car features are undeniably useful in making car ownership more convenient. In fact, OnStar’s top bundle includes Super Cruise, which allows GM vehicles like the Chevrolet Tahoe to use hands-free driver assistance technology that can help reduce driver fatigue. But for interested customers, it is worth noting that the Federal Trade Commission has already finalized an order banning GM and OnStar from sharing geolocation and driver behavior data with consumer reporting agencies for five years. It also requires the company to provide greater transparency to customers. Buick View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article