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When the Midwest Class Racers created the CTech Manufacturing Badger Classic eleven years ago, they envisioned a mix of close racing, camaraderie and an annual event that could carry on at Rock Falls Raceway in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. They worked hard to ensure all of that would happen, and to take things to the next level several years ago, they were joined in their efforts by racer Kurt Anderson to grow the Muscle Car Index class, and Bruce Lang and Russ Berens to propel the Nostalgia Super Stock and Nostalgia Muscle classes. “When the NMCA was still rolling, we did not have races between our Illinois and Michigan races, so I asked some of our index racers if they would be interested in racing at the CTech Manufacturing Badger Classic, and when they said they would, Bruce and I approached Midwest Class Racers and asked about including index for a combo race,” said Anderson, a multi-time NMCA champion who owns AutoKraft Race Cars & Restorations in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, which is an event sponsor. “That worked out well, and it helped us get even more cars on the property. We have local racers as well as racers from as far away as Kansas, Texas, Georgia and so many other states, and that is amazing. We have been enjoying a close working relationship with Scott Dugdale and Brian Zenzen of Midwest Class Racers.” When Anderson and Dugdale suggested raffles be introduced to the event to benefit charity four years ago, they were met with enthusiasm from racers eager to help however they could. In that time, the event raised more than $130,000 for Joshua’s Camp, a special retreat and respite in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, for children with cancer and their families. The 2026 offering of the ever-growing event, which is in its eleventh year, is set for June 26-28, at Rock Falls Raceway. Organizers were compelled to extend their reach, and partnered with Cause for Celebrations, a nonprofit organization which helps various charities in the Chippewa Valley area of Wisconsin. “Deep down, everyone wants to have a purpose, and helping other people is something that is near and dear to me,” said Anderson. “It is also obviously near and dear to a lot of other people who attend the event, because they talk about the charity aspect of it when they are at the event, and they want to help. You know, that is just one of the things that makes the atmosphere so great. Everyone is pulling together.” The exciting lineup of classes includes Midwest Class Racers Stock/Super Stock, B&K Trucking and Berg Sales, Inc. Nostalgia Super Stock/Nostalgia Muscle Car Combo, AutoKraft Race Cars & Restorations Muscle Car Index, TorqStorm Superchargers True Street and Jason Dietsch Trailer Sales Open Comp. In addition to the title sponsor, CTech Manufacturing, and class sponsors, substantial support for the event comes from Summit Racing Equipment and Midwest Factory Finishes. “It is really great to have CTech Manufacturing and all of the other sponsors on board for this event, and to know that they believe in the event as much as we do and want to join us in giving back to the community and to those who need support,” said Travis Hilton, general manager at Rock Falls Raceway. “I think the best thing about this event is having the ability to work with charities within the Chippewa Valley region. It is so important to us to touch the lives of people living within our community, and that is what makes all of this so rewarding.” Stacking begins on Wednesday, June 24, and parking begins on Thursday, June 25. A test and tune session as well as a gamblers’ race will be offered on Friday, June 26, and there are two separate main event races, with time trials, on Saturday and Sunday, June 27-28. The event will also feature the CTech Manufacturing Badger Classic Cruise-In Car Show, with a variety of high caliber cars ready to roll in on Saturday, June 27. This year’s event raffle boasts $5,000, $1,000 and $500 prizes. The drawing will take place on Saturday, June 27, and raffle ticket purchasers do not need to be present to win. Raffle tickets can be purchased, and event information can be found, at www.rockfallsraceway.com/badger. This story was originally published on April 30, 2026. The post CTech Manufacturing Badger Classic Set to Benefit Multiple Local Charities first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Elite Motorsports is ready for the NHRA Southern Nationals. Every member of the team wants to make history this weekend at SGMP.View the full article

Back to the 48When you live in Alaska, it's a totally different ballgame. Take, for instance, a Rivian owner who needs warranty work on his 2024 Rivian R1T. To make a warranty claim and to see it through, it used to be free with time and being the principal cost back then. However, some things happened that now necessitate thousands of dollars just to get the car towed to the nearest service center. The Drive picked up on this story, citing that an EV on a commercial barge caught fire while in transit, prompting them to limit or outright ban EVs. Because of the safety risk, it's become a logistical nightmare to ship over EVs from Alaska to the mainland or vice versa. Some ferries or barges will only take extremely limited quantities, causing lead times to stretch from a few weeks to months. According to the report, "the lead time for a slot is months, not weeks." Prices are also quite high for shipping, and it's causing Rivian and owners in the region a major headache. Rivian How Do Rivians Get Serviced In Alaska? Servicing in Alaska is currently handled by mobile technicians and authorized third-party providers. There is one major service center in the region, in Bellevue, Washington; however, Alaskan topography isn't exactly welcoming, especially if a car is inoperable and needs a tow. Depending on the problem, the cars will need to be shipped back to Seattle or to the Bellevue service center, where repairs or warranty work can be facilitated properly. If ever a vehicle fails to move under its own power, Rivian does offer complimentary emergency towing services, subject to asterisks that account for the vehicle's distance to the nearest authorized service center or a mutually agreed-upon location for warranty-related issues. The brand also covers repairs under its warranty policy, which states that Rivian will cover the repair costs if a vehicle becomes inoperable due to a failure. However, due to the exorbitant shipping costs, the company has pushed back but is allegedly working on another solution. Rivian The Logistical NightmareEVs and PHEVs are not allowed on barges that are not just bound for Central, Western, or Southeast Alaska, but also to Hawaii. Shipping companies are concerned about the energy density of lithium-ion battery packs in these vehicles. When EVs burn, they're difficult to extinguish and release toxic gases that could endanger the crew's health and safety. While a few EVs are okay, grow that number to a thousand, and you might have a big catastrophe on your hands. Such is the case with the cargo ship that necessitated the limitation. The said ship sank after thousands of EVs caught fire. Eventually, the ship sank, but the process took weeks. There are other stories that also involve cars and barges catching fire, like one in 2023, that involved 3,000 cars (25 of which were EVs) on a barge that caught fire. According to authorities, the fire "began near an electric car." New policies are treating EVs and PHEVs like hazardous materials, and thus are limiting or outright banning their entry on board barges and ships. With companies taking only a few, or none at all, this puts a heavy strain on EV shipments to the region and also on shipments outside. Rivian The Solution? TBDThe solution? Still to be determined. Rivian in Seattle is still trying to find a solution, with the owner of the R1T stating that he remains "optimistic" that the brand will help navigate the logistical nightmare unfolding. One solution is to go by land, but even that comes with its own set of costs and regulations. Transporting what is essentially treated as hazardous materials will come under fire from our neighbors from the north (poor choice of words, I'm sorry). According to the source's estimates, shipping an inoperable vehicle across Canada could cost well over $5,000. Ferries might be the next-best option for owners, but that will also cost an arm and a leg. The source also unearthed Reddit threads claiming that a one-way transport fee will set owners back $6,500 for a ferry ride. The logistical challenge is distance, policy, suppliers, and topography. Depending on where the vehicle is, getting it assessed is one thing, but getting it o a set of eyes that knows what to do is another. Then, if more serious work is required, it becomes a battle of capabilities. Does the vehicle need to go to the major service center, which is potentially super far away? Or does the vehicle need to head back all the way to Seattle because the local outfit doesn't have the tools to handle it? Prior to this, Rivian held the fort by shipping the cars by sea, avoiding land travel altogether. Now, the challenge is simply getting on the boat. Rivian View the full article

Here we go with more awesome vintage F1 action from the streets of Monaco! The Monaco Historic Grand Prix is one hell of an event, and it’s back after a few years off! If you dig old race cars, you are going to love this. And the way that it is organized at Monaco is something special. They organize the F1 races based on years, and they livestream the entire weekend. We shared the livestream already, and if you missed it then use the link below. But if you just want to see the independent races, we’re going to share those as well, and the first one is down below. This is the 1973-1976 Formula 1 race and just look at how sexy these race cars are! CLICK HERE IF YOU MISSED THE MONACO HISTORIC LIVESTREAM Video Description: It just feels right doesn’t it? The ’70s had some of the coolest F1 cars of all time. Thankfully, the Monaco Historic means that we get to see new races of the era! So sit back and enjoy that magical era brought back to life. The post Proper 1970s F1 Racing in Monaco! The Full 1973-1976 Formula One Race At The 2026 Monaco Historic Race. appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Finnegan’s Cadillac is arguably one of the most talked about drag and drive projects in recent years and while he’s been working on building his Lexus LC500 into a genuinely fast drag and drive car, it’s the Caddy that grabs everyone’s attention. We all know the project has had some setbacks and changes over the past couple of years, but Mike is committed to getting this thing on the road and so he’s really working on it. And then he broke his leg. Again. Well a different leg, but his leg none the less. Check it out. Video Description: This is episode 393 of Finnegan’s Garage. We had a ton of fun making it for you. Welcome to my channel. This is a fun place to learn about modifying, repairing and upgrading your hot rod car, truck and even boat! I’ll teach you how to weld, how to build high performance engines, how to fabricate your own parts while you learn from watching me wrench on my own project vehicles. I’ll even take you on the adventure as I leave my workshop on epic road trips and racing events as we test out the mods done to all of my projects. Along the way we’ll meet new and interesting people and share in the joy of their automotive creations! Thanks for watching! The post You’re Not Gonna Believe What Happened To Finnegan While Working On The Caddy! Check Out The Progress, And Setbacks… appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

In addition to the ARCA Menards Series race on the same day, Dystany Spurlock is set to make her NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series debut at Watkins Glen International on May 8. She will drive the No. 69 Foxxtecca Toyota for MBM Motorsports/Garage 66. “I’m excited for Watkins Glen,” Spurlock said in a release from the team. “It’s been a while since I’ve raced on a road course, so ...Keep readingView the full article

Tesla says it has started high-volume production of the Semi Class 8 electric truck at its dedicated 1.7-million-square-foot facility near Gigafactory Nevada. The announcement was made by the official Tesla Semi account on X, and was shared by CEO Elon Musk on his personal page. “First Semi off high volume line,” reads the April 29 post, which includes a photo showing a white Tesla Semi rolling off the production line with hundreds of workers standing in front of it. Tesla did not reveal the exact date when production started. Two Versions With Up to 500 Miles of RangeFirst Semi off high volume line pic.twitter.com/fI1AdQrJFH — Tesla Semi (@tesla_semi) April 29, 2026 The Semi was first shown almost nine years ago and has undergone significant changes since, with the most significant being introduced in November 2025, when the electric truck also received a facelift. We also learned more recently that the final production version of the Semi has shed 1,000 pounds of weight compared to the pre-production model. The start of high-volume production is a big milestone for the Tesla Semi, of which only a few hundred units have been made since October 2023 on a low-volume pilot line in Nevada; over 100 of those trucks were on the road as of late 2025. A significant portion of them were used for internal testing and in pilot programs by partner companies including PepsiCo, Walmart, and DHL. But now a new chapter opens for the Tesla Semi program, which has been delayed numerous times since the planned initial production start date of 2019. It looks as though Elon Musk’s latest estimate that Semi production would start this year has been correct. Tesla revealed the final production specs of the Tesla Semi in February, when it confirmed two variants: a Standard Range model with standard wheelbase and 325 miles of range at the full 82,000-pound gross combination weight, and a Long Range model with a longer wheelbase and 500 miles of range. The size of the Semi’s structural battery pack has not been disclosed yet, but judging by the official energy consumption of 1.7 kWh/mile, the 500-mile Semi probably has a capacity of around 900 kWh. The battery is also designed to last 1 million miles in its original duty cycle. Both Tesla Semi trims feature an 800-kW (1,072-hp) tri-motor powertrain with three independent motors on the rear axles. The battery pack is said to support peak charging speeds of 1.2 MW (1,200 kW), which enables it to reach 60% state of charge (SoC) in just 30 minutes using Tesla’s Megacharger stations. The Lowest-Priced Class 8 Electric Tractor in the U.S. Tesla Tesla hasn’t revealed pricing yet, but according to Electrek, the 500-mile Tesla Semi is priced at $290,000, while the base model costs roughly $260,000. If the prices are accurate, the Tesla Semi is the lowest-priced Class 8 battery electric tractor available in the United States. The main competitors include the Freightliner eCascadia and Volvo VNR Electric, which reportedly cost around $400,000 and $350,000, respectively. The Nikola Tre BEV was supposed to be another competitor for the Semi, but the EV startup filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in February 2025. Tesla Now that high-volume production has begun, Tesla will have to ramp gradually to the factory’s maximum output of 50,000 trucks a year. Some analysts project 5,000-15,000 Tesla Semi deliveries this year, but that sounds overly ambitious at this point. Tesla does have the advantage of vertical integration, as the Semi’s two available battery packs use the 4680 battery cells, which are manufactured in the same site. Normally, that should eliminate supply issues and ensure a smooth production ramp for the Semi. Deliveries to customers are expected to start this year. Tesla View the full article

Larry Chen is back at it, but this time his Asian adventures have led him to China to check out the car culture in Shenzhen. I used to travel to Shenzen in my previous career and it is the tech capital of China for sure. Not far from Hong Kong, it’s a very busy international city and because of that it has a lot of cars. But what is their car culture like there? You might be surprised as you watch this cool video from Larry, with his buddy Sung Kang, but it is always fun to see how folks around the globe worship cars like the rest of us. The post Exploring Some of China’s Car Culture in Their Tech Capital, Shenzhen, w/ Sung Kang appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

The 2026 NHRA Mission Foods Drag Racing Series will crown South Georgia Motorsports Park as their newest national event racing facility with the running of the NHRA Southern Nationals, May 1-3. Steve Johnson will be there aboard his Suzuki as he continues his historic 40th season of NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle competition. Johnson’s striking red and white Suzuki Hayabusa struggled in Charlotte, after parts failure during the third qualifying attempt led to an early first round exit on Sunday. “We were prepared, we just used the wrong equipment. We had two parts fail at the same time that had never failed in the past,” explained Johnson. “Now, with these back-to-back races, it’s on to bigger and better things at the Southern Nationals.” Johnson earned his first career No.1 qualifying honor at the Southern Nationals in 1995, when the event was held near Atlanta. The veteran Suzuki pilot enters this 3rd race of the 14-event NHRA Pro Stock Motorcycle schedule positioned 8th in the Mission Foods points standings. During his 40 years on the NHRA tour, Johnson has witnessed the excitement and magic surrounding new facilities and inaugural races. As the NHRA continues to celebrate their 75th anniversary in 2026, South Georgia Motorsports Park will become the headquarters for the world’s fastest sport for three spectacular days of drag racing. “I’m excited at seeing the NHRA branching out into a new area and demographic. And I’m thrilled at the economic impact that it will create for the city of Valdosta, Adel and the surrounding areas,” Johnson stated enthusiastically. “I’m equally thrilled for the fans in the area who have never had the opportunity to witness an NHRA national event in person.” The quality of the all-concrete racing surface at SGMP has the potential to support national record performances, should the weather conditions cooperate. Johnson’s 40 years of experience at reading and learning the characteristics of different racing surfaces could provide him a measure of an advantage. The post Steve Johnson Racing Rolls Into Georgia for NHRA Southern Nationals first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

Honda Sued For Its Idle Stop A feature that's meant to save drivers some dollars at the pump might end up costing Honda dearly, think about $36,000,000 in legal fees and expenses. The lawsuit revolves around Honda's Idle-Stop feature and how it refused to start the engine up again after activating, Car Complaints reports. How Honda's system works is that it shuts off the engine after it comes to a stop and idles for more than two seconds. When the brake pedal is released, the system will restart the engine automatically. According to the lawsuit, the idle-stop system wouldn't allow the engine to restart, even after the engine start button was pressed. leaving the vehicle immobile. According to the lawsuit, the feature wouldn't allow the engine to restart even after the brake pedal was released, and it has been ongoing for quite some time. Michael Austin Affected Models Both Honda and Acura models were affected, including those with 3.5-liter engines and 9-speed automatic transmissions. This isn't the first time that Honda's 3.5-liter V6 has been "taken to court." In fact, there is another lawsuit involving these motors for a different issue. 2015 to 2020 Acura TLX 2016 to 2020 Acura MDX 2016 to 2021 Honda Pilot2019 to 2021 Honda Passport 2020 to 2021 Honda RidgelineVehicles that have already undergone the warranty process, as indicated by a new starter motor replacement (A53 starter motor assembly), are not included in the warranty extension. Honda's Response Honda's been hit with a lot of lawsuits lately, from peeling white paint to phantom braking. This is yet another lawsuit that Big H has to handle. Owners filed multiple class-action lawsuits and then consolidated them into one, called "In re Honda Idle Stop Litigation." The judge allowed the plaintiffs to modify and refile their class action a total of five times. It was certified in 11 states, and in a bid to settle, Honda offered 10-year warranty extensions in 2022 and 2023 for the affected models. The extended period began when the model went into service. Honda even skipped the technical inspection entirely for this issue, allowing eligible vehicles to claim the extended warranty without having to reproduce the problem. More problems arose with the initial offer, as some affected models were more than 10 years old by the time a fix was available. Honda was rather generous and offered an extension to the Idle Stop warranty claim period, which is 24 months for 2015 model year vehicles and 18 months for 2016 model year vehicles. Honda has also offered reimbursements to customers who paid for Idle Stop repairs themselves. Owners who have repaired the issue can apply for settlement via reimbursement, provided that proper documentation of the repair is available. The Settlement The 20 Honda customers who sued the Japanese automaker will receive $7,500 each. However, the lawyers representing those plaintiffs are seeking $35,250,000 in attorney fees and $823,131.24 in expenses. A final approval hearing is scheduled for June 1, 2026, and might finally bring this litigation to an end, but for now, nothing is official until the judge grants final approval. Copyright 2015 Brandon Turkus / AOL View the full article

Shannon and Jess are moving right along on the FJ40 and things just keep getting better. If you like a Landcruiser, you’ll dig this one. But if restored to factory is your jam, this one might not be quite up your alley. We dig them all, so we are in. Check it out as Shannon gets rolling with winch mount and bumper fabrication, plus race prep! If you missed this FJ40 project that Shannon Campbell is working on, we’ve got a link below, but if you are back for the next installment in this build series you are in luck as well. I think this is going to be a fun project, because I love FJ40s, but if you have any ideas of building a custom chassis for your FJ or Jeep, you should check this one out. CLICK HERE IF YOU MISSED ANY OF THE UPDATES ON THIS FJ40 PROJECT SO FAR Video Description: This one is PACKED and a little all over the place—in the best way We’re in full crunch mode getting everything ready before heading out to Moab where we’ll be racing at Area BFE this week! Shannon puts in some serious work on the FJ40: Builds a custom winch mount Fabricates the rear bumper Keeps the momentum going on this full build Meanwhile, Donnie gets after it installing gears and lockers On the race car side, we FINALLY get the transmission back and installed just in time before hitting the road for Moab… because of course, nothing happens early around here Jess sneaks in a little Saturday cruise in the Scrambler (because priorities ‍) The post FJ40 Land Cruiser Custom Fabrication: Fabrication Marathon! Winch Mount, Bumper & Race Prep Madness In The Shop appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

Pain PointThere are a lot of things to consider when jumping into the EV lifestyle. Most people will complain about the high prices of EVs and some of the disadvantages in certain situations. One big pain point is the sometimes lack of charging infrastructure in more populated areas, where charging can be a hassle and lines can build up. As we all know, lining up for anything is a bit of a hassle, especially if the line barely moves. Since charging an EV isn't necessarily as quick (yet) as filling up with gas, these frustrations sometimes boil over, leading, in some cases, to fisticuffs between EV owners. Getty Images Virtual QueuingTesla is finally acknowledging the issue of queueing at its Supercharger locations nationwide. According to Not a Tesla App, the EV automaker is working on building a virtual queueing system in the Tesla app. When a driver is near a Supercharger, the app will alert them to the current capacity and usage of the station, and then allow them to join the queue. The app will then manage the queueing system itself, removing the burden of arguing with another owner over who was first in line. The app update doesn't only use the car's location relative to the Supercharger, but also the driver's location. While the app is closed, it will use your location to notify you of accurate wait times at Superchargers when you arrive. A follow-up message will be sent to the driver, confirming that there is a waitlist to charge, and will then ask if the driver is sure to start a charging session at that location. Once the driver confirms, the app will update the driver on their position in the waitlist and how many cars are ahead of them. Jay L Clendenin/Getty Images Notable IncidentsTesla Superchargers have been the subject of a variety of incidents, usually of the not-so-good kind. There are often reports of vandalism at some locations, but in relation to queuing at these locations, sometime in 2025, a video surfaced online showing a physical fight breaking out between owners who were arguing over who was first in line to charge. Hopefully, the queuing app does its job, given that many more brands are getting access to charging at Tesla's Supercharging stations, which will drive up traffic. Kristen Brown View the full article

Dubbin Motorsports will bypass the upcoming Chicago NHRA Route 66 Nationals after the team failed to find a competitive footing across all four qualifying sessions and the first round of competition in Top Alcohol Dragster at the Charlotte NHRA 4-Wide race, leaving the team roughly a tenth off the pace of the front-runners. The team’s A/FD posted a best of 5.318 at 270.05 mph in Q4 – its quickest pass of the weekend – but Wolf remained parked at the 12th position on the ladder. Wholesale tune-up adjustments between sessions produced no measurable improvement, prompting the team to swap powerplants ahead of eliminations. “Something was up with that motor,” said team owner Dean Dubbin. “It just would not respond to the changes we were making, and we were making big changes.” The first-round quad against John Ausherman, five-time TAD National Champion Joey Severance, and Melanie Johnson driving a McPhillips team car did not deliver the desired results. The car struggled from the 1-second mark through the finish, placing fourth in the quad and ending the weekend for Kirk Wolf and the team. “We made some wholesale changes in the new engine and even changed cam timing in hopes of really making this engine angry,” Dubbin said. “When you are way down the ladder from the top-running teams, you have to make some aggressive moves and really step it up to have a chance against these guys.” Wolf framed the result plainly: “It was a very frustrating weekend to say the least. The car just isn’t responding like it should. Hopefully, we can go make some test laps to get this all figured out.” Dubbin confirmed the schedule change and outlined the path forward. “We have decided that this car is not leaving the shop until we figure out what’s going on with it. We are going to bypass the Chicago race and get this problem fixed. We will park it in the shop and go over every inch of this car and go through every engine. You can’t do that at the track effectively. Everyone is working way too hard on this car for it to be running like it is – it should be running much better. It’s disappointing and frustrating. We will find the problem and maybe go do some testing before we return to the track for competition.” The post Dubbin Motorsports Alters Schedule After Charlotte 4-Wide Struggles first appeared on Drag Illustrated. View the full article

The GV250X Roadster brings a compact V-twin engine, traction control, and strong value to Japan’s competitive 250cc class. View the full article

Sebago Lake is the largest, and deepest, lake in the state of Maine and is known for it’s clear water. Because of the conditions there, it is a favorite spot for under water explorers using submersible drones. And that’s how the Camaro was spotted. A drone operator named Jason Smith was exploring and saw a shadow that drew his attention. It turned out to be a 1974 Z28 Camaro that looked to be in amazingly good shape. Looks can be deceiving however, so check out the story below. If you are wondering how this completely intact Camaro came to be on the bottom of the lake, watch the video. Video Description: A car that sank to the bottom of Sebago Lake was recently discovered. It had no license plates, the windows were down and nothing but parts of an old tent were in the trunk. For more on this story, visit: https://bit.ly/426IGim The post This 1974 Z28 Camaro Was Found At The Bottom Of Sebago Lake In Maine! But How Did It Get There? appeared first on BangShift.com. View the full article

New Japan-Market Honda Odyssey May Be ComingMinivans continue to win where it matters most. Practicality, comfort, and everyday usability still outweigh the image-driven appeal of SUVs for many families. Features like sliding doors, flexible seating, and superior interior packaging make them easier to live with every day. The Odyssey has long embodied that formula, prioritizing function over flash while still delivering a composed, car-like driving experience. At this stage, there are no official images or confirmed specifications for the next-generation Odyssey. However, Japanese outlet Creative Trend reports that a dealer-sourced product scheduled for this month points to a full redesign arriving sometime after 2027. That timing makes sense given the current model’s age. Early expectations suggest a more modern design and updated interior tech, but the core strengths of space, usability, and family-first engineering are expected to remain intact. Honda The US Odyssey Is Falling BehindThe US-spec Odyssey, however, is starting to feel dated. We describe it as a dependable family workhorse with excellent space, flexibility, and a composed driving character. It continues to rely on a naturally aspirated V6 and front-wheel drive, delivering a familiar and proven setup that many buyers still appreciate. That said, competitors now offer hybrid or plug-in hybrid options, while the Odyssey sticks to traditional powertrains. In Japan, the Odyssey already features a hybrid system, while the US version remains the only minivan in its class without one. Demand for a hybrid Odyssey is no longer niche. It is now an expectation. If Honda brings that powertrain to the next generation, it could immediately resolve the model’s biggest weakness and reposition it as a segment leader. Cole Attisha Using Gemini 3 Pro The Odyssey Stands in a Changing MarketElectric vehicles, especially those coming out of China, are advancing at a relentless pace. They bring aggressive pricing, rapid development cycles, and increasingly sophisticated technology. That pressure is beginning to reach even the minivan segment, where buyers now expect electrification alongside practicality. Still, the Odyssey has something many newer competitors lack. Proven usability and long-term trust. It has built its reputation on reliability, flexibility, and real-world functionality. If Honda executes the next redesign correctly, particularly with hybrid integration and updated tech, the Odyssey will remain highly relevant. Honda View the full article

Famously, Ford's CEO Jim Farley sits on Harley-Davidson's board of directors. Yet, for some reason, Harley just announced it's partnered with Jeep in Europe. View the full article

New Model OffensiveIt's no secret that BMW has a barrage of new models coming in for the 2027 model year. After all, it's keen to keep its lead in the U.S luxury car sales rally amid challenging market conditions. Next year will be buzzing with activity, and that's good news, indeed. A few months ago, a list of new models was accidentally leaked, revealing at least seven that we can expect to appear in showrooms soon. Of course, there's the ix3 and the facelifted 7 Series, along with some surprises like the all-wheel-drive M2 and M350. BMW iX5: Also Coming SoonOne that wasn't mentioned in detail was the iX5, but it's an inevitable addition to the lineup given the brand's EV push. Our previous report brushed on one possible model, namely the 60 xDrive. Other than that, it's the only thing we know about it, at least until now. German publication Auto Motor und Sport spotted an EPA document that reveals key details about the iX5. Powertrain output was revealed, along with battery capacity and some specs on its battery composition. Interesting stuff. SH Proshots/Autoblog The Juicy DetailsWe'll kick things off with power, and the alleged file is for the iX5 60 xDrive. With that, it has two electric motors, with the front making 247 hp and the rear 322 hp, and the listed combined output is 569 hp. Torque is somewhere in the region of 600 lb-ft. That's a lot of punch, and this isn't even the high-performance version. More important here is the battery, and it's a whopper with a capacity of 147.8 kWh. It's even larger than the one fitted to the recently updated i7, which itself comes with a 112.5 kWh pack. Range, however, wasn't listed, but given its size, it might be close to 600 miles. Auto Motor und Sportreports that the next-gen X5 and iX5 will use the CLAR platform, meaning the ICE/PHEV and EV models will likely share the same chassis rather than separate architectures as in the X3 and iX3. With the EPA files, it's possible that the iX5, as well as the next-gen X5, might be revealed pretty soon. Aside from that, we can also look forward to the iX4 and an entry-level version of the i3, based on the other documents uncovered by the German publication. SH Proshots/Autoblog View the full article

The Signals Are Getting Harder to IgnoreWhen we first covered the long-wheelbase Tesla Model Y L, it looked like a market-specific experiment. The added seating and stretched proportions hinted at a family-focused direction. At the time, Tesla kept quiet about any U.S. plans. The product existed, but only for China and other Asian markets. That left American buyers still choosing between the standard Tesla Model Y and the outgoing Tesla Model X. As reported by Teslarati, a trend has emerged among American influencers who recently traveled to China and Australia, publishing near-identical hands-on reviews within days. The website noted that Tesla has used this tactic before to build momentum ahead of a launch. Is this just content for content's sake, or a soft signal that the Model Y L is being prepared for North America? Autoblog / LeRoy Marion Bigger Where It CountsThe Model Y L does not try to fully replace the Model X in footprint. It approaches the problem with smarter packaging. The wheelbase is actually about 3 inches longer than the outgoing Model X, which unlocks meaningful space in the second and third rows. The third row becomes usable for real passengers. Cargo capacity remains competitive, which is critical for family duty. There is also a notable upgrade in cabin execution. Some versions include second row captain’s chairs and a rear touchscreen. Reviewers point to a more composed ride and a quieter cabin. Range remains competitive even with the larger body. In practical terms, this is the Model Y many buyers expected from the start. It delivers three-row flexibility without stepping into Model X pricing. Autoblog / LeRoy Marion A Practical Tesla Might Finally LandThe Model X carved its niche with space and a distinctive layout. Its falcon wing doors made it stand out, but also divided opinion. Buyers consistently appreciated the seating flexibility. That formula matters more than styling theatrics in daily use. Families prioritize access, comfort, and ease of loading. If the Model Y L arrives in the United States, it targets that exact demand. It offers the seating solution without the complexity or cost of the Model X, positioning it as a volume product rather than a halo vehicle. Tesla has been missing that middle ground. If the response translates into demand, a U.S. launch looks less like speculation and more like a question of timing. Autoblog / LeRoy Marion View the full article

Remember those kids' ride machines where you threw a couple quarters and rocked back and forth? Yeah, you can get one for your kid in the shape of an old-school Harley-Davidson motorcycle right now. View the full article

Simulated Shifts, Real DemandWhen Hyundai first introduced simulated gear shifts and engine sounds in the Ioniq 5 N, it seemed like a gimmick. But after spending time behind the wheel, it’s clear why it's become a popular feature in new EVs. The system restores a sense of connection and feedback that most electric cars just don’t offer. For drivers who grew up associating performance with the rhythm of shifting gears, this brings back a familiar feeling. Unsurprisingly, other automakers are taking notes – BMW, for example, is already working on its own take for upcoming performance EVs. With all the attention, Hyundai isn’t keeping this tech locked away in its N performance models. The plan is to roll it out to more mainstream EVs, but not every model will make the cut. Power Matters, Says HyundaiHyundai has already started quietly testing these simulated shifts in some of its newer electric models outside the N badge, according to Carsales. The company is clearly serious about seeing how it fits into the broader lineup. Hyundai’s product chief for Europe, Raf van Nuffel, says the real aim is to make driving more engaging – not just to pump in fake noise. The catch is that the system only feels right when the car has enough power to back it up, especially when simulating the feel of shifting and delivering torque. So, while Hyundai isn’t making this an N-only feature, there’s a minimum requirement. Entry-level EVs just don’t have the muscle to make the simulated shifts feel authentic, so they will be left out. Instead, expect to see this tech in mid-range and higher-powered models, where it actually enhances the experience. “We are not going to offer it across the range, but definitely [there is] more to come without always having to go for 600 horsepower,” van Nuffel said. Hyundai Where It’s HeadedRight now, you’ll only find the simulated shifts in Hyundai’s performance EVs like the Ioniq 5 N and Ioniq 6 N. These models show off the system at its best, and you can turn it on or off depending on your mood. Hyundai isn’t the only one in its group playing with this idea. The Kia EV6 GT already uses a similar setup, and more Kia EVs are expected to follow. Genesis is also getting in on the action, with the GV60 Magma set to bring its own performance-focused twist. This is just the start. As more automakers look for ways to make EVs feel less anonymous, features like simulated gear shifts could become the new normal – giving electric cars a bit more personality where it counts. Adam Lynton/Autoblog View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Purpose-built, factory-engineered, and unapologetically extreme, the 2006 Harley-Davidson V-Rod Screamin’ Eagle Destroyer stands as one of the most focused competition machines ever offered by Harley-Davidson. Now available for sale on Bring a Trailer, this one-year-only model represents a rare opportunity to acquire a true turn-key drag racing motorcycle developed under the brand’s elite Custom Vehicle Operations (CVO) program. With approximately 650 examples produced, exclusivity is guaranteed—yet it’s the engineering depth that defines its significance. Visually, the Destroyer delivers unmistakable intent. […] The post FOR SALE: 2006 Harley-Davidson V-Rod Screamin’ Eagle Destroyer appeared first on Return of the Cafe Racers. View the full article

The enduring appeal of the BMW K100 lies in its unconventional engineering and timeless adaptability—qualities that are vividly showcased in this freshly listed example on Bring a Trailer. Reimagined in café racer form, the 1985 model demonstrates how precision craftsmanship and modern upgrades can elevate a classic into a contemporary statement piece. At the heart of the build is the liquid-cooled 987cc horizontal inline-four—an engine that helped define BMW’s transition into advanced motorcycle engineering in the 1980s. Featuring dual overhead […] The post FOR SALE: Modified 1985 BMW K100 appeared first on Return of the Cafe Racers. View the full article

Still AwesomeIt's been a while since the Ford Mustang GTD first made headlines, but the specs are still as impressive as ever. With everything that's been done to it, the GTD is more road-legal race car than hotted-up Mustang. Those extensive and comprehensive changes to the chassis include a bespoke arrangement with pushrod suspension at the back, adaptive spool-valve dampers, a wider track, and more. Of course, those changes will be for nothing if it didn't move fast. So, at the heart of the GTD is a supercharged 5.2-liter V8 engine tuned specifically for this model. The result is a hearty 815 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque, which is more than enough to put a good number of supercars on their toes. Ford Laying Down That PowerWith those fat 345-section tires at the back, it has more than enough contact patch to lay down that power on the road unless you're deliberately lighting the tires. 815 hp is a serious amount of power by any means, but is Ford truthful in its ratings, or is it actually sandbagging the actual output? The folks from Late Model Restoration took a GTD, strapped it to a dyno, and let the numbers speak for themselves. The results were predictably impressive, but did it, at the very least, match the advertised figure? Read on. The Magic Number is...Before we tell you, note that the Mustang GTD in question was a freshly broken-in example with 1,100 miles on the clock. The car underwent a short shakedown before it was strapped into the dyno. The first pass saw a result of 740 hp and 605 lb-ft in its first pass. However, the second pass resulted in 753 hp and 609 lb-ft of torque. On paper, it's far away from the 815 hp listed by Ford, but do note that the dyno measures power at the wheels, not at the crank. So, what's 740 hp in terms of crank horsepower? Give or take, drivetrain losses for rear-wheel-drive automatics are about 15%. Factoring that in, that's about 870 hp. 753 hp to the wheels comes out at around 885 hp at the crank, 70 hp more than Ford's claim. With those numbers, one can say that Ford was conservative in its ratings. Still, we're not complaining. Bonus horsepower is always a good thing, and if you have over $300,000 to spare, you can still get your hands on one as Ford has opened up another allocation for this special steed. View the full article

India's new GST structure on bikes bigger than 350cc is forcing brands to rethink engine sizes and long-term strategy. View the full article