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2026 North West 200 SuperTwin/Sportbike Jeremy ‘Jezza’ McWilliams, the 62-year-old ex-Moto GP star made history today when he became the oldest ever winner at the North West 200. 27 years after he stood on the top step of the 250 cc Dutch TT podium, he scored victory in the second Supertwins race; amazing local fans […] The post Hickman and McWilliams share NW200 SuperTwins victories appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

2026 North West 200 Superbikes The Briggs Equipment North West 200 wrapped up on an incredible high today as 23-year-old newcomer, ‘Lord’ Storm Stacey won the feature race of the day; the Merrow Hotel and Spa North West 200 Superbike. It should be mentioned the blue ribband big race was cut short to two laps […] The post Storm Stacey wraps up NW200 with Superbike victory appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Lamborghini’s Exclusive Club Gets a New MemberAmong Lamborghini owners, there’s another level that exists above the usual limited-run specials. The company calls them “Few-Off” models – ultra-exclusive machines produced in tiny numbers and often reserved for the marque’s most loyal collectors. Think Reventón, Veneno, Centenario, and Sián. These are the cars that rarely appear outside concours lawns, climate-controlled garages, or at Monaco hotel entrances. Lamborghini just added another name to that list: the Fenomeno Roadster. It’s the open-top version of last year’s Fenomeno Coupe, and only 15 will exist worldwide. That makes it one of the rarest modern Lamborghinis right out of the gate. The Fenomeno Roadster broke cover at the Lamborghini Arena event in Imola. Underneath, it shares a platform with the Revuelto, but the bodywork is unique. Lamborghini points to influences from their racing prototypes, the Essenza SCV12, and even the Miura Roadster from the 1960s. Lamborghini Open-Top Drama With a Lot Going OnThe Fenomeno Roadster keeps the coupe’s dramatic stance, but Lamborghini had to rethink the aerodynamics without a roof (no, it’s not a convertible). There’s a subtle spoiler built into the windshield frame to direct air over the cabin and toward the engine. Out back, the speedster humps aren’t just for show – they hide the rollover protection system. The styling is as busy as you’d expect from a modern Lamborghini. Sharp intakes, deep side channels, exposed carbon, and hexagonal details fill every surface. Y-shaped lights stand out, and at the rear, a high-mounted hexagonal exhaust sits above a serious diffuser and an active rear wing. However, the windows definitely caught our eye. Just like the Veneno Roadster, the side glass drops low in the middle, giving the car a profile that’s equal parts fighter jet and concept sketch. It’s unusual, but it fits the Lamborghini playbook. The launch car wears a triple-tone finish: Blu Cepheus paint, exposed carbon fiber, and Rosso Mars accents. The red and blue are a nod to Bologna’s city colors. Inside, Lamborghini sticks to its 'Feel Like a Pilot' theme. Carbon fiber covers almost every surface. The switchgear looks straight out of an aircraft, and the digital displays use hexagonal graphics. The seats are heavily bolstered and finished in Corsatex and Carbon Skin. Lamborghini Likely a Seven-Figure Price TagUnder the hood is Lamborghini’s 6.5-liter naturally aspirated V12, paired with three electric motors and an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox. Total output is 1,065 hp and 793 lb-ft of torque. That makes this the most powerful open-top Lamborghini to date. Performance numbers are as wild as you’d expect. Lamborghini says it’ll do 0-62 mph in 2.4 seconds, 0-124 mph in 6.8, and top out past 211 mph. There’s also a 7-kWh battery for short stints of electric-only driving. Underneath, the Roadster rides on a carbon-fiber monofuselage chassis borrowed from the Revuelto. It gets manually adjustable racing dampers and custom Bridgestone Potenza tires. If you want to take it to the track, semi-slicks are on the options list. Lamborghini hasn’t said what it’ll cost, but it should be well into seven figures before you add options. It’s also highly likely that every one of the 15 cars was likely spoken for before anyone saw it in public. Lamborghini View the 7 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

It was an incredible finish to Saturday's NASCAR O'Reilly Auto Parts Series race at Watkins Glen International. Defending series champion Jesse Love was stretching the fuel while Connor Zilisch was running him down on fresher tires. Even after slicing through the mud and damaging his car, Zilisch ran Love down, passing him in the final corner on the final lap, snatching the win away for JR ...Keep readingView the full article

The cabin of a Rolls-Royce is probably the finest place to be anywhere on four wheels, as the exquisite craftsmanship, luxury and the feel-good factor are very hard to replicate by other carmakers. But when Goodwood’s Bespoke division gets involved, things start to get really special, making the passengers feel like they’re in a rolling art gallery. The Bespoke Collective, Rolls-Royce’s elite team of designers, engineers and craftspeople, has introduced four new craft techniques inspired by the decorative arts that are impressive even for the very few who are accustomed to Rolls-Royce Bespoke artistry. On display at Rolls-Royce Motor Cars London, Mayfair, during London Craft Week (May 11-17), the four new craft techniques explore texture, material and depth influenced by art, haute couture, fine jewelry and architecture. Rolls-Royce They include the first-ever application of hand-sculpted 3D metal within a Rolls-Royce Gallery, the first showcase of a layered 3D veneer that integrates brass elements, 3D leather sculpting applied by hand to create realistic form, and beadwork application. To showcase the potential of these innovations, Rolls-Royce artisans built two concept pieces at the scale of a Phantom Gallery, which is the name of the uninterrupted glass-covered dashboard panel that protects and displays artwork inside the super luxury sedan. Both works of combine hand and machine craftsmanship, with the latter including laser cutting, waterjet shaping and digital pattern drafting that are used to achieve shapes that no hand could repeat with the same accuracy. Those are followed up by hand-engraving, hand-painting, hand-embroidery and hand-sculpting to give the work its individual character. There's No Way Those Pomegranates Are Not Real Rolls-Royce Perhaps the most impressive of the two is the one called 'Legacy Craft: Inspired by Still Life,' which draws inspiration from the ‘nature morte’ paintings of the 17th-century Dutch Golden Age and the embroidery traditions revived by the Arts and Crafts movement. Rolls-Royce’s Interior Trim Centre artisans composed a still-life arrangement of fruit and flowers in a three-dimensional form using a stunning combination of materials, textures and contemporary craft techniques. The concept artwork debuts the first application of 3D leather sculpting and beadwork, with the hydrangeas being constructed from 50 individual flowers, each hand-sculpted from leather and painted by hand. Their leaves are formed entirely from thread using a newly developed style called Sphinx Moth 3D embroidery.
 The pomegranates are embroidered using the alternate stitch technique, with the 76 jewel-like beads being individually hand-sewn to form the seeds that replicate the ruby translucence of the real fruit. This concept piece took more than 250 hours of handwork to complete. 'Legacy Craft: Inspired by The Draught’ Rolls-Royce The second concept piece is called 'Legacy Craft: Inspired by The Draught’ and brings together 3D metal hand-sculpting and layered 3D veneer with brass elements. Created by specialists from Rolls-Royce’s Interior Surface Centre as a piece of fine jewelry, it uses four historical techniques. Those include the draught (the technical drawing a craftsman uses to guide architectural work), scribing (the act of marking a surface to guide cutting and carving), strapwork (the interlaced, band-like motif of Elizabethan and Jacobean ornament), and ferramenta (the ironwork support grid used to retain stained glass). Rolls-Royce The 3D veneer uses multiple layers of laser-cut wood finished with bass inserts that catch the light like fine jewelry. The concept piece culminates in a three-dimensional, jewelry-like flower, formed from five layers of brass, each cut into petal shapes using an advanced waterjet. This detail alone took over 45 hours to complete. The left side of the Gallery also features 3D marquetry and a delicate brass lattice applied over the veneer and completed with subtle laser engraving for added texture. 
 "The concepts we present here are a playful expression of our craftspeople’s creative spirit. They show how hand and machine can work in concert, how a 17th-century still life or a Jacobean strapwork motif can become a modern sculptural form, and how Rolls-Royce is both a custodian and an accelerator of rare craft skills,” said Phil Fabre de la Grange, Head of Bespoke, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.
 Expect to see this type of artistry in highly customized Rolls-Royce Phantoms costing obscene sums of money soon. Rolls-Royce View the full article

Becoming Rolling Safety ComputersAs newer cars come with smarter features as standard, it can sometimes feel like automakers are forcing extra tech onto buyers. One of those is advanced driver-assistance systems, though General Motors argues that the technology can significantly reduce crashes and injuries – and it backed the claim with data. In a study conducted with the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI), GM found that advanced driver-assistance systems helped reduce certain crash types by as much as 86%. That is a significant figure, especially since crashes not only cause injuries but can also become expensive and time-consuming headaches involving insurance claims, police reports, and repair work. Buick The Numbers Behind The Safety ClaimsThe 86% reduction applies specifically to backing crashes. GM also found a 57% drop in rear-end crashes with injuries and a 35% reduction in front pedestrian crashes with injuries. Lane-assist features were linked to a 15% decrease in road-departure crashes and a 13% drop in lane-change crashes. These reductions were tied to features such as Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking, Lane Keep Assist, and Lane Change Alert. These findings were based on roughly 700,000 police-reported crashes matched with approximately 12 million GM vehicles from the 2020 to 2024 model years across 18 states. But perhaps the most encouraging takeaway from the study is that buyers do not need to spend a fortune to benefit from these crash-reducing features. Models under $30,000 – including the Buick Encore GX and Envista, as well as the Chevrolet Trax, Trailblazer, and Bolt – come standard with Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert, and IntelliBeam. Cole Attisha GM Bets On Smarter SafetyMeanwhile, other GM models are available with Super Cruise, the company’s hands-free driving system. What some may appreciate is that the feature is subscription-based, meaning buyers who prefer taking the wheel themselves do not have to keep paying for the service after the trial period. In the future, advanced driver-assist technologies will likely become even more sophisticated as the IIHS tightens its crash-avoidance system requirements. That could push automakers to allocate more resources toward improving these systems to qualify for Top Safety Pick+ honors. How that affects pricing remains to be seen, though GM’s study makes a stronger case that the added safety could be worth the cost. Chase Bierenkoven View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

American hypercars are rare, especially ones that manage to combine outrageous performance with a jaw-dropping design. California-based Czinger Vehicles is one of the few American companies successfully taking the fight to Europe’s elite. Based on the standard Czinger 12C, this one-off VMax variant delivered through Prestige Imports in Miami may be its most stunning creation yet. Finished in a dramatic shade called “Royal Venom,” the hypercar looks like a spaceship that belongs in an art museum. Royal Venom Steals The Spotlight Instagram: @prestigeimports and @czingermiami Instagram: @prestigeimports and @czingermiami Instagram: @prestigeimports and @czingermiami Instagram: @prestigeimports and @czingermiami Created as part of Czinger’s Liquid Series, Royal Venom is a deep pearlescent purple that constantly changes character depending on the lighting. Under direct sunlight, the finish glows with bright metallic highlights, while shadows reveal a darker and richer tone. The shifting effect gives the 21C VMax an almost liquid appearance. Unlike many modern hypercars that drown themselves in exposed carbon fiber, this build lets the paint do most of the talking. The front splitter, rear diffuser, and pieces inside the engine bay are all finished in matching purple. Satin champagne-gold anodized accents contrast the purple finish perfectly, appearing on the two-piece carbon-fiber wheels, Czinger badges, and even the 3D-printed Bio-Logic suspension components. A Cabin Inspired By Fighter Jets Instagram: @prestigeimports and @czingermiami Instagram: @prestigeimports and @czingermiami Instagram: @czinger_vehicles @czingermiami and @prestigeimports Instagram: @prestigeimports and @czingermiami Inside, the lavish theme continues. The 21C uses a tandem seating layout that positions the passenger directly behind the driver, similar to a fighter jet cockpit. Purple upholstery, white leather accents, exposed carbon fiber, champagne anodized trim, and matching purple seat backs carry the exterior’s bold personality into the cabin. The 21C and 21C VMax start at $2.36 million, but being the only example finished in Royal Venom, and the only model to flaunt gold anodized pieces, we reckon its price tag should sit closer to $3 million, if not more. With just 80 examples planned globally, it already sits among the rarest American performance cars ever built. A Track Weapon Disguised As Art Instagram: @czinger_vehicles @czingermiami and @prestigeimports Instagram: @czinger_vehicles @czingermiami and @prestigeimports Instagram: @czinger_vehicles @czingermiami and @prestigeimports Instagram: @czinger_vehicles @czingermiami and @prestigeimports The Czinger 21C VMax is much more than just a pretty face. It's engineered to dominate on track. Power comes from a hybrid-assisted 2.88-liter twin-turbocharged V8 producing up to 1,250 hp, sent to all four wheels. Czinger claims a 0-60 mph sprint of just 1.9 seconds, placing the VMax among the quickest production cars on the planet. The company is also targeting the Nürburgring record for an American vehicle, putting it directly in the crosshairs of rivals like the Ford Mustang GTD and Chevy Corvette ZR1. It is a hardcore track weapon that just happens to be one of the most beautiful American cars ever made. View the full article

Happy Birthday, Honda Accord! May 8, 2026, marks the 50th birthday of the Honda Accord. Born in 1976, the first-generation model debuted and then went on to become one of the Japanese automaker's most successful models ever. From businessmen to celebrities like Ludacris, the Accord has gained worldwide acclaim in the 50 years that it's spent driving around the globe. In that time, the nameplate sold a grand total of 25 million units, accumulated millions of miles with countless owners, and is currently in its 11th generation. Honda From Then to NowThe first-generation Honda Accord debuted in 1976 and was sold as a three-door hatchback or a four-door sedan. It came with a 68- to 78-horsepower naturally aspirated 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. Sold alongside the Civic, it was the snazzier option of the two, offering more space and more luxuries than its subcompact brother. Fast forward to today, and the model has grown in size and power and is fitted with the latest and greatest safety tech. Now turbocharged or hybrid, with Honda's Safety Sense, and even available with a detuned version of Honda's Civic Type R (FL5) engine, it has come a long way since its introduction. Notable models include the third, fifth, and seventh-generation models that received the Japan Car of the Year award. Others include the 10th-generation model, which was awarded the North American Car of the Year award. Honda Honda's Throwing a Party Known as one of the embodiments of restraint and quiet luxury in the automotive industry, the Honda Accord will receive a similarly designed celebration at the Honda Collection Hall in the Mobility Resort Motegi. Honda has a special exhibit featuring all the historic models alongside panels that trace the evolution of the nameplate over the years. The exhibit will run from May 7, 2026, through June 30, 2026. On top of that, a line of commemorative merchandise featuring the Accord's 50th Anniversary logo will be sold. The merch line includes T-shirts, caps, mugs, and keyholders, and it will also be available online through the Honda Goods Amazon Brand Store, the official shop for Suzuka Circuit and Mobility Resort Motegi. Stores at both locations will also hold stock and offer delivery, but only within Japan. Aside from the caps and T-shirts, Honda also collaborated with Cotocul, a Kyoto-based leather accessories brand that uses recycled materials from Accord seat covers. These products are also available through Cotocul's online store, but delivery is limited to Japan only. Finally, Honda has videos and content to be posted on its social media channels, plus an article on Honda Stories, all to air on May 26, 2026, in honor of the Accord. Honda View the full article

Mansory Doing Mansory ThingsTo say that Mansory creations are polarizing is an understatement. Some see the German tuner’s work as the height of exclusivity, while others wonder how a standard car ended up looking like it was designed with no restrictions in mind. Every so often, Mansory shows a bit of restraint – like with its recent Porsche 911 Turbo S softkit, which was unexpectedly subtle. Most of the time, though, the company goes all-in on visual drama, and the new Mansory Azura is a clear example. Mansory View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Those ColorsThe Azura starts with the current Mercedes-Benz G-Class (W465) and reimagines it as a luxury beach cruiser. It wears bright turquoise paint, oversized aero-disc wheels, forged carbon trim, and a generous amount of LED lighting. The biggest change is the bodywork. Mansory turned the G-Class into a two-door convertible with rear-hinged doors, requiring extensive rework of the structure and exterior panels. Surprisingly, the result is more cohesive than you might expect. The open roof softens the G-Wagen’s usual military look, giving it a relaxed, almost yacht-like presence. Mansory More Power Than Any Convertible SUV Probably NeedsUnder the hood, Mansory starts with the familiar Mercedes-AMG 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, but upgrades it with larger turbos, new engine management, and a high-flow exhaust with redesigned downpipes. The upgrades bring output to 820 horsepower and 848 lb-ft of torque, a big jump from the standard AMG G 63’s 585 hp and 627 lb-ft. Mansory says the Azura will do 0 to 62 mph in 4.0 seconds and reach a limited top speed of 155 mph. Inside, most surfaces are finished in turquoise leather, with forged carbon accents that include turquoise flakes. Buyers can customize almost every detail, from stitching and leather types to color choices and carbon finishes. The rear seats are now a pair of individual chairs, separated by a custom center console for added comfort. Mansory Mercedes Is Already Working on the Real ThingMansory’s timing is notable, as Mercedes-Benz is also working on its own official G-Class Cabriolet. The automaker previewed its open-top G-Class last year, with camouflaged prototypes seen testing in Austria and Sweden. Reports suggest the production AMG G 63 Cabriolet will arrive around 2028, using the same 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 as the standard model. Unlike the Azura, the factory version is expected to keep four doors and a more understated design, though pricing will likely remain above $200,000. Mansory hasn’t shared pricing for the Azura, which usually means it’s aimed at buyers who aren’t concerned about the cost. Each build is unique, following the company’s 'One of One' approach. Mansory View the 9 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

Jorge Martin stormed from eighth to first by Turn 4 and controlled the French MotoGP Sprint at Le Mans, while Marc Marquez’s late crash brought major championship consequences. The post Martin storms from row three to French Sprint win as Marquez suffers costly crash appeared first on MCNews. View the full article

Volvo is inching closer to the launch of the EX60, and alongside the rollout of the new electric SUV, the Swedish automaker has been making the media rounds. In an interview with Motor1, Volvo’s Chief Commercial Officer, Eric Severinson, shared the company’s stance on subscription-based car features. Severinson criticized the idea of charging monthly fees for basic functions like heated seats, saying luxury brands "shouldn’t nickel-and-dime customers" after they have already spent tens of thousands on a premium vehicle. Why Carmakers Love Subscriptions Volvo Money makes the world go around, and the autosphere is no exception. Subscription services have become increasingly common as automakers look for new ways to generate recurring revenue beyond traditional vehicle sales. In fact, GM thinks subscription services could eventually generate more revenue than selling cars. BMW faced heavy criticism after introducing heated seat subscriptions back in 2022, but have since admitted it was a mistake. From the manufacturers’ perspective, these systems allow for a more streamlined production process, since every vehicle could leave the factory with the same hardware installed. Subscriptions would essentially serve as a paywall to unlock features already installed on your car. Volvo Draws The Line Volvo Volvo believes there is a major difference between premium software services and features that are already installed in the car. Severinson explained that charging extra for basic functions does not align with the experience buyers expect from a luxury automaker. However, he noted that subscriptions can still make sense for larger digital ecosystems such as advanced driver-assistance systems or software features, like Volvo’s upcoming Google Gemini-integrated infotainment. A Different Kind Of Luxury Brand Volvo While Volvo competes directly with brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz, buyers seem to gravitate toward German luxury brands, making it harder for Volvo to compete. The company’s EV lineup now includes the compact EX30, the flagship EX90, and the upcoming EX60, which is expected to rival models like the iX3 and GLC EQ. Volvo’s CEO has also signaled openness to building Chinese-developed EVs in the US, with help from their parent company Geely. Not only could this make electric vehicles more affordable, but combined with its public criticism of subscription features, Volvo would earn the public's favor. View the full article

Epitome of DesireFerrari has always been the definitive bedroom poster car for generations of petrolheads; it has become the most recognizable brand in high-performance cars. One thing the Prancing Horse brand understands is that not only do the cars have to perform well, but also evoke emotions, and that stems from good car design. Over the years, the brand has worked with notable Italian designers like Pininfarina, Bertone, and many more. It has also built up its own in-house design capabilities, and one self-made design has just nabbed a prestigious award. Ferrari View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Nostalgic Design The Red Dot design award is widely regarded as the most prestigious awarding body for automotive design. For 2026, the winner of the Best of the Best in the Product Design categoryis none other than the Ferrari SC40. The SC40 is a limited one-off by the Ferrari Special Projects Programme. This special service offered by Ferrari gives a very special new owner a truly bespoke experience, with a whole, singular model designed and built just for them. It was designed in-house by the Ferrari Design Studio under the stewardship of Flavio Manzoni. It was conceived as a pure, uncompromising Berlinetta, which means "little saloon." The design philosophy draws inspiration from the iconic F40 but adds elements that Ferrari's designers describe as "muscular squared volumes." It pays tribute to the F40 without being a literal representation; it even draws inspiration from industrial design, using precise geometry. Some key elements are the long, low nose, a short rear overhang, and a high fixed rear wing. It is painted in a bespoke color called Bianco SC40, and inside it uses a lot of carbon-kevlar materials matched by Alcantara. Since the base car is a 296 GTB, it uses the same engine, which produces a total power output of 819 hp with the help of a hybrid system. Ferrari View the 2 images of this gallery on the original article Multiple WinnersThis year marked the 72nd Red Dot Awards, and Ferrari marked the occasion not just with the overall win of the SC40 but also with other special cars from the stable taking home awards. These cars are the Ferrari Amalfi, 849 Testarossa, 849 Testarossa Spider, 296 Speciale, and 296 Speciale A. Over the past 12 years, Ferrari has bagged 35 Red Dot awards, an achievement unmatched by any other automaker since the Red Dot awards were established in 1955. Ferrari View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

The grid is set for Sunday's NASCAR Cup Series race at Watkins Glen International. Defending winner Shane van Gisbergen earned pole position -- his first at the Glen but fifth at the Cup level. The impressive qualifying effort also comes on the Kiwi's 37th birthday! Spire Motorsports' Michael McDowell will start from the outside of the front row, a full 0.259s off of SVG's fast lap of ...Keep readingView the full article

Tariff Fight ContinuesOne of the latest developments in the Trump administration’s tariff push is the possibility of raising import duties on European cars from 15% to 25%, a move that could severely affect brands without U.S. manufacturing, including Audi. But while tariff debates continue, a federal trade court has blocked the administration’s new 10% global tariffs, ruling them unlawful, according to Automotive News. For context, the new tariffs do not apply to imported cars and auto parts, which are already subject to separate duties under Section 232. The fresh 10% tariffs, imposed under Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974, were introduced in February 2026 after the Supreme Court ruled the administration’s International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA)-based tariffs illegal. For now, the court’s block applies only to the two companies that sued and the state of Washington. SeongJoon Cho/Bloomberg via Getty Images The Legal ProblemThe court stated that the administration exceeded the authority granted under Section 122 in imposing the 10% global tariffs, as the provision is intended for temporary emergency measures tied to a serious “balance-of-payments deficit,” not general trade deficits. Under this provision, import duties can only be raised to 15% and may remain in effect for only 150 days unless extended by Congress. While this may not directly affect the car industry, the ruling could help reduce the risk of additional blanket tariffs being piled on top of existing automotive duties. Several brands, including Hyundai, have also expressed concerns over the challenges posed by tariffs, which may not immediately affect customers but could have long-term consequences for automakers. GM Canada Billions in RefundsStill, U.S. automakers like Ford, General Motors, and Stellantis are reportedly set to receive around $2.3 billion in tariff refunds, which are specifically tied to the overturned IEEPA tariffs. Across multiple industries, importers could reportedly receive almost $170 billion in refunds. While the refund process is reportedly beginning to “heat up,” automakers that import vehicles into the U.S. will still have to navigate Section 232 tariffs. Those duties have also added pressure on brands to build more vehicles stateside, but setting up U.S. manufacturing is costly, time-consuming, and risky given how quickly tariff policies can change after elections or court rulings. For now, some automakers may simply have to absorb the hit. MICHAEL MACOR/The San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images View the full article

There is a specific kind of magic found in the Mojave Desert near Ridgecrest, California, every April. It’s not just the vast, unforgiving landscape or the shimmering heat haze; it’s the sound of hundreds of engines shattering the silence for the Biltwell 100. It is an annual, grassroots, 100-mile d... View the full article

Geely Already Has One Big Advantage in the U.S.While U.S. politicians continue to push back against Chinese automakers entering the U.S. market, a new CNBC report says Geely Holding may already be the best-positioned Chinese carmaker to break into the U.S. market. Unlike rivals still trying to establish a foothold, Geely already has strong operational ties in the United States through familiar brands such as Volvo, Polestar, and Lotus. Industry analysts interviewed by CNBC pointed out that Geely effectively “already sells cars in America” through its ownership stakes and partnerships. Geely Holding owns nearly 79% of Volvo Cars, controls 51% of Lotus, and maintains major influence over Polestar. Those relationships give the Chinese automaker something competitors like BYD or Nio still lack in the U.S.: factories, dealer networks, supply chains, and brand recognition already operating on American soil. Volvo’s South Carolina Plant Could Be the KeyOne of the biggest assets in Geely’s corner is Volvo’s manufacturing plant in Charleston, South Carolina. The facility is currently operating well below its annual capacity of roughly 150,000 units. Volvo executives have already hinted they would be open to producing additional vehicles there, including potentially models tied to Geely’s broader portfolio. Volvo reportedly wants to significantly expand its American manufacturing footprint as it aims for 200,000 annual U.S. sales. The company is also preparing to build more hybrid SUVs locally. That opens the door for Geely-backed brands to potentially sidestep steep import tariffs by producing vehicles inside the United States instead of shipping them directly from China. Autoblog / Leroy Marion Zeekr May Be the Brand Americans See FirstAmong Geely’s growing portfolio of automotive brands, analysts believe Zeekr is the most likely to officially enter the U.S. market. Positioned as a premium, performance-focused EV brand beneath Volvo, Zeekr has already started establishing a quiet presence in America through its partnership with autonomous driving company Waymo. Waymo has deployed Zeekr-based autonomous vans in San Francisco as part of its robotaxi operations. Executives from Zeekr have also publicly expressed interest in entering the American market. Analysts believe the brand’s upscale positioning, advanced EV technology, and Geely’s existing infrastructure could make it the easiest Chinese automotive brand for American buyers to accept. Jacob Oliva/Autoblog Chinese Automakers Are Growing Too Big to IgnoreAcross all its brands, Geely reportedly sold nearly 1 million vehicles in the first quarter of 2026 alone, according to the report. Analysts say the company has also gained valuable international experience by aggressively expanding across Europe, giving it a better understanding of operating outside China compared to many of its domestic rivals. At the same time, American consumers may be more open to Chinese vehicles than politicians expect. An earlier report found that a large percentage of U.S. buyers would consider buying a Chinese car. Among younger buyers, that number reportedly climbs close to 70%, signaling a potentially huge opportunity if regulatory barriers ease in the future. Autoblog / Leroy Marion Political Resistance Remains a Massive ObstacleDespite Geely’s positioning, entering the American market won’t be easy. Chinese EVs currently face a 100% U.S. tariff, with additional duties potentially pushing costs even higher. The federal government has also moved aggressively against Chinese connected-car technology over cybersecurity concerns. Still, some American leaders have shown openness toward Chinese automakers manufacturing vehicles domestically. Donald Trump recently said he would welcome Chinese companies building factories in the U.S. if they hire American workers and invest locally. That approach could ultimately become the path forward not just for Geely, but for the entire next wave of Chinese automakers hoping to enter the American market. Leroy Marion / Autoblog View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

An Icon That Could've Been Replaced in the '60sMuch has been said about the Volkswagen Beetle and its long and illustrious history. Anyone somewhat knowledgeable about automotive history would know that the Beetle story dates back to the Second World War. If it weren't for British Major Ivan, who spotted a Type 1 prototype amidst the rubble of the Volkswagen plant, the entire German automotive industry probably wouldn't have become the powerhouse it eventually became. The Type 1 would eventually be named Käfer, the German word for Beetle, and it became its official name by the late '60s. However, there were already plans to build a successor long before that, and had any of those been approved, we probably wouldn't be writing this story in the first place. Exotic Car Trader The First AttemptsAs early as the '50s, Volkswagen had been building prototypes for the Type 1 replacement. One of the earliest examples was the EA 47-12 from 1955, transforming the insect-shaped car into a more formal sedan that looked contemporary. That same year, there was the EA 48, which looked rather like the love child of a Porsche 356 and a panel van. Another interesting prototype was the EA 97, and if it looks familiar, that one ended up being the 1961 Type 3 and not as a direct replacement for the Beetle. Then there was the EA 142 that subsequently became the Type 4, again, not a Beetle replacement. But around the mid-'60s, there were two proposals that would eventually change the brand's trajectory. These were the EA 266 and EA 267, and both have amazing backstories, particularly the earlier model. Volkswagen The EA 266Quick fun fact: the reason why VW has EA in its product codes is that it stands for Entwicklungsauftrag, meaning development assignment. VW attaches that to engine codes these days, but back then, it was assigned to prototypes. So, in this case, EA 266 stands for development assignment 266. EA 266 was awarded to Porsche by the then CEO, Dr. Kurt Lotz. The brief was simple, on paper at least. EA 266 had to be "sporty, comfortable, safe to drive, spacious, and compact." With that in mind, Porsche opted to go for a mid-engined layout, likely for packaging reasons and, well, the 'sporty' part of the brief. The project was led by the then development chief, Ferdinand Piëch. Yes, that Ferdinand Piëch. Volkswagen Clever for its EraThe resulting prototype, shown in 1969, featured a flat-4 engine under the rear seats, providing a sizable cargo area for a small vehicle. Interestingly, it was water-cooled, breaking away from the company's usual air-cooled engines. The 1.6-liter engine made, give or take, about 100 hp, which was unheard of from such a small engine back in the day. For reference, the Beetle made about half as much as the EA 266. As for the suspension, it was independent at the front and rear. It had struts up front and a semi-trailing arm arrangement at the back, which would've made for some pretty sporty handling back in the day. Indeed, according to Volkswagen, "its roadholding left most sports cars in the dust." This flyweight subcompact weighed under 1,750 lbs and had a claimed speed of 116 mph. It's safe to say that Porsche nailed the 'it must be sporty' part of Volkswagen's instructions. Volkswagen A Couple of IssuesUnfortunately, that mid-engined layout would cause some problems. The engine hung low, constantly putting it at risk of catastrophic damage if its belly scraped against anything. Placement of the intake manifold and radiator was compromised at best, and accessibility to the engine for maintenance work was, to put it lightly, difficult. Then there was the matter of refinement. It inevitably got hot inside, particularly for rear occupants, and there was a fair amount of noise seeping into the cabin. As for handling, it was fine (and fun) for the more experienced helmsman, but it was potentially scary for the average person who just wants to use it to go to the shops. Given more time, one could say that Porsche could've ironed out all those kinks, but it wasn't meant to be. The development of the EA 266 had proved expensive, and there was a change of the guard at Volkswagen's offices. A new CEO had stepped in, and Rudolf Leiding terminated the project on the grounds of cost and complexity. Volkswagen A Different DirectionWith the EA 266 project axed, VW went with the direction set by the EA 276. It was, at the time, a massive departure from the brand's usual models, as it was front-engined, front-wheel-drive, and came with a water-cooled inline-four engine. If that formula sounds familiar, it would form the basis of EA 337, the prototype of the car we all know as the Golf. As for the EA 266, of the 50 prototypes that were made, only two remain. It's certainly an interesting footnote in VW's history, and had that been chosen over the Golf, the company would look very different today. After all, a full range of vehicles had been planned for it had been approved, one that included sedans, sports cars, and even a minivan. Perhaps in a parallel universe where the EA 266 became the Golf, VW would be the purveyor of mid-engined vehicles worldwide. Alas, it wasn't meant to be. Still, its chief developer, Ferdinand Piëch, would come back much, much stronger after that. We all know what kind of cars resulted under his stewardship of the brand. As they say, the rest is history. Volkswagen Volkswagen View the 5 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

“Honestly, a bit surprised.” Ryan Preece was very measured on Saturday morning when discussing the penalty levied against him this week by NASCAR for the incident involving him and Ty Gibbs last Sunday at Texas Motor Speedway. Gibbs crashed on Lap 101 and NASCAR deduced intent based on radio communication that indicated Preece could retaliate in some form for a previous incident ...Keep readingView the full article

Porsche Hits ResetGive Porsche credit for trying to branch out into adjacent ventures. But with shifting market conditions, including U.S. tariffs and slowing sales in China, the German marque wants to refocus on its “core business.” That shift is so significant that the company is cutting several subsidiaries, affecting more than 500 employees. This strategic realignment became apparent after Porsche agreed to sell its stakes in the Bugatti Rimac and the Rimac Group. Now, the automaker is discontinuing three subsidiaries: Cellforce Group GmbH, Porsche eBike Performance GmbH, and Cetitec GmbH. “We must refocus on our core business. This is the indispensable foundation for a successful strategic realignment. This forces us to make painful cuts – including our subsidiaries,” said Dr. Michael Leiters, chairman of the executive board of Porsche. Porsche Pulling the PlugCellforce Group is a battery cell manufacturer that later shifted toward becoming an independent R&D unit for Porsche as EV demand slowed in markets such as the U.S. and China. However, the venture is no longer seen as having a viable long-term business case, leading to its discontinuation. Meanwhile, Porsche eBike Performance, as the name suggests, develops high-performance e-bike drive systems. But shifting conditions in the e-bike market have also brought that venture to an end. As for Cetitec, it develops specialized data communication software not only for Porsche, but also for the broader Volkswagen Group, Porsche’s parent company, which owns brands such as Audi and Lamborghini. Much like the other two subsidiaries, Porsche said changing market conditions and shifting development priorities made the venture no longer sustainable. Porsche The Heart of PorschePorsche did not elaborate on what it means by “core business,” but it likely refers to its main carmaking operations. That could mean funneling more resources into vehicle development, including long-standing nameplates like the 911, which is now available with a hybrid system called the T-Hybrid. The automaker is also expanding its EV lineup, with the Cayenne Electric set to begin deliveries in the U.S. in late summer 2026. Conditions could become even more challenging now that the Trump administration is threatening to raise tariffs on imported cars from Europe from 15% to 25%. Porsche does not have a manufacturing plant in the U.S.; most of its models are produced in Germany, while the Cayenne is assembled in Slovakia. Against that backdrop, the company's decision to streamline parts of the business looks easier to understand. Porsche View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article

One of the best decisions Japanese automakers ever made was to create North American branches, and they have traditionally been a reliable source of cash for these companies when things in the rest of the world are challenging, but Toyota North America has posted a $1.21 billion loss for the 2025 fiscal year. After a $681.4 million profit the year before, what is the cause of this decline? There are several: Trump tariffs, investing in EVs, and the war in Iran. However, new CEO and former CFO Kenta Kon has a plan to right the ship. More Hybrids, a Revised Lineup, and Shared Costs for Toyota Toyota To improve operating profits, which have already fallen and are set to decline another 20 percent to $18.79 billion, Kon wants to review the Toyota model range, reports Automotive News, not only in terms of which nameplates are being produced, but also how many thereof. "As we pursue the multipathway, that naturally increases the number of models, and that means an increase in the number of parts and specifications, which makes things more complex for customers," said Kon. "If we can review that complexity, it would have a major impact." In other words, while Toyota still wants to produce all-electric, mild-hybrid, plug-in hybrid, hydrogen-powered, and combustion vehicles, it can't afford to overcommit to vehicles that occupy small niches and have a low forecast for near-term growth. Related: Toyota Vs. Honda Reliability: One Clear Winner Chief Financial Officer Yoichi Miyazaki admitted that "[Toyota's] business in America is very challenging," and the numbers show it, with the automaker accumulating an $8.64 billion tariff bill each fiscal year. While Toyota could bear the brunt of this burden in the previous fiscal year, it now intends to work with its suppliers to share the strain. Efficiency will be key for Toyota after it announced a $1 billion investment in its Kentucky and Indiana assembly plants, which will both be responsible for a trio of new EVs - the first of which will be the now electric-only Highlander - and increased output of the gas-powered Grand Highlander three-row SUV. Toyota Is Cautious But Optimistic Toyota While the likes of Nissan have already had to trim the workforce and scale back production, Kon believes that Toyota does not need to be aggressive and reactive in its cost-cutting. "We do not have to apply the brakes on our growth strategy despite the environment," said Kon. "We will remove waste one by one and restructure the business." Caution is arguably the best attitude to take right now, with Toyota reporting that the conflict in Iran is likely to result in a $4.2 billion earnings hit for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2027, and if it continues, disrupted shipments could nearly halve the automaker's annual exports to the Middle East, some 500,000 to 600,000 vehicles. If things stabilize, Toyota should be able to improve on its actual net income of around $24.11 billion, which is slightly better than the $23.49 billion that was previously forecast. View the full article

An 800 Horsepower Upgrade A Chinese source, Car News China, reported online chatter about the next Zeekr 001 FR. For context, "FR" is Zeekr's performance brand, similar to what M is to BMW and what AMG means to Mercedes-Benz. The sub-brand is going to come out of hiding soon, but our initial findings didn't reveal too much. Until we found this: whispers of a new performance EV from Zeekr featuring more than 2,000 horsepower. The info comes from Chinese car bloggers: MetaAuto and Hanlu on Baidu. If the rumors are true, we might be looking at one of the fastest production Chinese EVs ever. Zeekr More Performance The current 001 FR hails from 2023. At the time, the EV horsepower war was just kicking off. Only a few EVs had over 1,000 horsepower on the market, and Zeekr gave us up to 1,300 horsepower from the first 001 FR. Now, rumors point to a power figure of over 2,000 horsepower, along with several enhancements. Rumors also suggest that Zeekr is revising the body of the car, along with the brakes and tires, in order to "safely" handle that monumental figure. Even as an older performance model, the Zeekr 001 FR was already able to accelerate from 0 to 62 miles per hour in about 2.02 seconds, and you can get that level of performance for just $107,000 in China. Now, there's Zeekr may be able to break the two-second barrier with its newest performance EV. Zeekr More Features? Apart from its high power, the Zeekr 001 FR also features a quad-motor setup that allows it to take full advantage of torque vectoring for improved handling. There is also a "Räikkönen Mode" designed to provide a Kimi-approved driving experience. There is also an overclocking mode that increases power output slightly. We can also infer that the 2026 Zeekr 001 FR will get a battery and charging standard upgrade. Currently, it has a 100 kWh battery pack that's running the show, but as power outputs increase, we might see a larger pack installed. On top of that, current model charging standards are at 10% to 80% in just 15 minutes, but it's likely that the Geely group will allow Zeekr to take its megawatt charging standard and run with it in the new 001 FR. Geely Group Why Though? There may be an actual war going on in the world, but in the auto industry, automakers are engaged in a horsepower war of their own. Heck, even for normal grocery getters and electric soccer mom cars, we're seeing over 400, 500, or even 600 horsepower in EV crossovers and SUVs. Check out what GWM is doing with their all-electric tank that makes close to 900 horsepower. Even popular electronics manufacturers like Xiaomi are throwing their hats in the ring with the SU7, which makes up to 1,500 horsepower. Even Zeekr's more "normal" cars, like the flagship Zeekr 7X, are making over 600 horsepower. It makes for a great headline, but you eventually have to ask, "What for?" Zeekr View the full article

Missing PartsSomething many automakers are doing these days is adding a list of features that make their cars stand out. To keep production easy and costs low, most of these features are simple interior or exterior bits, such as badges, lights, and, in more recent times, illuminated badging and emblems. When it comes to some of these unique features, brands offer them as optional extras, meaning buyers really want them and expect them on their brand-new car. The problem is that, somewhere along the way, the optional features don't arrive as intended, which is exactly what has happened with a number of 2026 Traverse SUVs. Chevrolet Illuminated EmblemGM Authority released a report stating that some cars have been delivered without an optional extra. It seems that limited units of the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse are missing the optional illuminated grille emblem. According to the service bulletin, “certain vehicles listed above may have been delivered without the customer-ordered Front Grille Illuminated Emblem.” This prompted GM to instruct each dealership to first check whether a car is part of the advisory in the brand's Global Warranty Management database before performing any repairs. This service campaign will remain active until May 31, 2026. To rectify the lack of the emblem, GM's dealerships will install the missing part for those who still want it, and for those who don't, will issue a $500 reimbursement check. If the owner chooses reimbursement, the dealership will need to verify the ownership documents before issuing the payment. The verification process has three essential items: a letter provided by GM, vehicle registration, and either a driver’s license/state ID. When it comes to company-owned cars, proof of automotive insurance is needed. Chevrolet Optional Extra CostGM's iconic bowtie logo is something brand loyalists and fans are proud of, which is why it makes sense that GM would offer an illuminated option for its cars. Available as a dealer option for the 2026 Chevy Traverse, it will set people back $525 and is part of the more expensive illumination package, which costs $625. Should any affected vehicles remain unsold, GM has requested that dealers hold them until repairs are complete. Chevrolet View the full article

During Friday's NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race at Watkins Glen International, two late-race leaders were penalized for going early and mashing the gas before reaching the restart zone. The first was Ross Chastain, who led 19 laps before penalized with just ten laps to go. Two restarts later with five laps to go, it was Gio Ruggiero, who was even closer to the line and was getting pushed ...Keep readingView the full article

The BYD Datang, or Great Tang, offers 5-minute flash-charging, long-range powertrains, three rows of seating, and up to 784 hp. With prices starting at $36,700, it's easy to see how BYD managed to gather over 100,000 bookings for the Datang only two weeks after its unveiling at the Beijing Motor Show. The Datang is effectively offering Maybach-level presence for mid-trim Honda Pilot money. BYD Under the SkinAt over 207 inches long, the Datang is a massive three-row behemoth, physically overshadowing competitors like the Kia EV9. But it’s the tech under the skin that should have engineering teams in Dearborn and Stuttgart sweating. BYD claims a staggering 590 miles (950 km) on the CLTC cycle. Even when you account for the optimism of Chinese testing standards, you’re looking at a real-world range that comfortably eclipses almost everything currently on American roads. As for charging, thanks to the new Blade Battery 2.0, the Datang features "Flash Charging" capable of adding significant range in just 5 minutes. BYD The Datang isn't just big, it's quick. The dual-motor flagship variant pumps out 784 hp (585 kW). That isn't just "family SUV" fast; that is supercar fast. Inside, the Datang is a masterclass in the "more is more" philosophy. Aside from the palatial lounge-like seating arrangement, the dashboard is a glass-covered command center with three integrated screens, plus a massive entertainment display that drops from the roof for rear passengers. It even sports a roof-mounted Lidar system for BYD’s "God’s Eye" ADAS, offering high-speed Navigation on Autopilot (NOA). BYD Datang for Uncle Sam?While BYD is making aggressive moves into markets like Canada—where tariffs were recently slashed—the U.S. remains a fortress. Between trade barriers and the complexities of exchange rate parity (which some analysts argue puts the "true" economic value closer to $75,000), the Datang is a forbidden fruit for American buyers for now. Will the Datang eventually force its way into the North American market? Only time—and trade policy—will tell. View the full article

Selling an Experience, Not Four WheelersMitsubishi was once a major Japanese player in the U.S., selling more than 340,000 vehicles in 2002 with models like the Lancer and Eclipse. Since then, the brand has declined significantly and now hovers around the 100,000-sales mark. Moving forward, the automaker wants to revitalize its U.S. operations through its “Momentum 2030” plan, one part of which involves building dealerships that do not actually sell cars. As counterintuitive as it may sound, this new concept, called the Gallery dealership, aims to strengthen Mitsubishi’s branding through a more modern approach. It will be staffed by knowledgeable personnel who will guide visitors through the brand, including its in-car technology and history. The concept could also bring back casual dealership visits, especially since these locations are planned for high-traffic retail areas. Mitsubishi Before Crossovers Took OverGiven Mitsubishi’s current strategy of prioritizing affordable, mass-market models like the Eclipse Cross, younger buyers may not be aware of the brand’s championship-winning rally history, when it once went head-to-head with Subaru. Mitsubishi also offered several performance-oriented models that aligned it closely with the tuner culture that thrived in the 2000s, alongside cars like the Toyota Supra Mk4 and Nissan Silvia. As such, the Gallery dealership model appears to be a viable strategy to help bring interest back to the brand. The first location will open in Antioch, Tennessee, with its grand opening scheduled for July 2026. Once operational, the concept is expected to inspire other dealer partners to build their own Gallery dealerships as well. “From the outset, we wanted to create a high-touch, low-pressure way for shoppers to discover our brand and to learn more about what we stand for, the philosophy behind our engineering, and the vehicles we sell,” said Mark Chaffin, president and CEO at Mitsubishi Motors North America. Cole Attisha Browse Here, Buy ThereWhile the upcoming Gallery dealership itself will not sell cars, it will still connect visitors to dealer partner City Auto’s inventory. Prospective buyers can complete the purchase at City Auto’s main store, located only 20 minutes away. In addition to the Gallery dealership concept, the “Momentum 2030” plan aims to expand Mitsubishi’s electrified lineup in the U.S. One upcoming addition is a new EV based on the Nissan Leaf, which is expected to arrive in summer 2026. Mitsubishi has also hinted that the Lancer Evolution dream is not dead, a development that could excite long-time fans of the brand. Mitsubishi View the 3 images of this gallery on the original article View the full article