Author: Mike Smith

Automotive In a surprising throwback to old-school methods, U.S. auto dealers have found themselves reverting to manual paperwork because of a serious software outage attributable to a cyberattack on CDK Global. This outage has disrupted the dealer management systems (DMS) utilized by over 15,000 retail locations, critical for processing sales, tracking profitability, and managing worker compensation. The cyberattack has plunged the automotive retail sector into chaos, with JPMorgan analysts highlighting the severe impact on business operations. Leading auto retailer AutoNation reported significant disruptions, although their outlets remain operational, continuing to purchase, sell, and repair vehicles despite the challenges. Similarly, Lithia…

Automotive Ford Performance is back with a strong latest contender for the celebrated Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. Introducing the F-150 Lightning SuperTruck, Ford’s latest electric vehicle (EV) demonstrator. This cutting-edge machine will tackle the formidable challenge of America’s Mountain, driven by none aside from Pikes Peak veteran and record holder, Romain Dumas. Continuing the Legacy: From SuperVan 4.2 to SuperTruck Following the remarkable achievements of the SuperVan 4.2 on the 2023 Pikes Peak event, Ford Performance is desperate to construct on that success with the F-150 Lightning SuperTruck. Last yr, the SuperVan 4.2 made headlines by breaking records and…

Automotive Nissan has officially announced the top of production for the R35 Nissan GT-R in North America by October 2024, marking the conclusion of a 17-year run for the long-lasting sports automobile. To commemorate its farewell, Nissan will introduce two special editions: the Skyline Edition and the Takumi Edition, each designed to have a good time the GT-R’s renowned performance. The Skyline Edition, based on the “Premium” model, will feature a particular Bayside Blue exterior paired with a blue interior, priced at $132,985. Meanwhile, the Takumi Edition, derived from the 2024 GT-R T-Spec, will showcase exclusive Midnight Purple paint, carbon-ceramic…

Automotive By the top of 2024, Virginia will shift from adhering to California’s emissions regulations to following federal standards. Governor Glenn Youngkin, a Republican, has endorsed this modification, emphasizing that Virginians must have the liberty to decide on their vehicles without government intervention. He criticized the thought of the federal government dictating which cars people can purchase as “fundamentally unsuitable.” Governor Youngkin’s decision has sparked controversy. Environmental groups and a few political leaders oppose the move. Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell accused Youngkin of breaking the law, claiming that the attorney general is supporting the governor’s decision improperly. The Southern…

Automotive The Biden administration has unveiled recent federal regulations that mandate recent vehicles sold in america to realize a mean fuel economy of 38 miles per gallon (MPG) in real-world driving conditions by 2031. It is a considerable increase from the present average of around 29 MPG. Incremental Increase in Fuel Economy In keeping with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the brand new rules would require passenger cars to enhance fuel efficiency by 2% annually from model years 2027 to 2031. Similarly, SUVs and other light trucks will see a 2% annual increase from model years 2029 to…

Automotive The federal government has allocated $5 billion over five years to develop a comprehensive network of electrical vehicle (EV) charging stations along interstate highways. The goal is to position stations at 50-mile intervals nationwide. Nevertheless, over two years into the initiative, only eight stations have opened, spread across just six states, highlighting the slow progress of the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program. Challenges in Nationwide Deployment The slow rollout underscores the complexities of making a national charging infrastructure. The deployment process is fragmented, with states controlling the distribution of federal funds. Firms awarded funds face various state regulations…

Automotive Chevrolet has once more teased the highly anticipated Corvette ZR1, which is rumored to feature a twin-turbocharged version of the Z06’s 5.5-liter V8 engine. The C8-generation Corvette Z06 is already renowned for its remarkable high-revving engine, a major departure from traditional Corvette powertrains. Nonetheless, General Motors goals to push the boundaries further with the brand new ZR1 variant, as hinted in a recent teaser. The newest teaser video provides glimpses of the ZR1, accompanied by the powerful roar of its V8 engine. Keen observers will notice the rear of the automotive, showcasing a distinguished wing and a four-pipe, center-exit…

Automotive Cadillac has officially unveiled the 2025 Optiq, a compact luxury EV crossover designed to follow within the footsteps of the Lyriq. This recent model, powered by GM’s Ultium technology, is comparable in size to the Equinox EV and utilizes the identical 85.0-kilowatt-hour battery pack as its Chevy counterpart. Nonetheless, the Optiq distinguishes itself with quite a few enhancements. The Optiq features standard all-wheel drive and the Super Cruise driver assist system, delivering 300 horsepower and offering a 300-mile range—each improvements over the Equinox EV’s 288 horsepower and 285-mile range. Charging capabilities are on par, with each models supporting 150-kilowatt…

Automotive BMW recently unveiled the Concept Skytop, a limited-edition roadster designed to captivate enthusiasts with its unique style and exclusivity. The concept was introduced at the distinguished Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este, an event known for showcasing elegant and progressive automotive designs. The Concept Skytop stands out with its sleek, minimalist design, harking back to a luxury M8 Convertible tailored for a Twenties-themed gala. Adrian van Hooydonk, BMW Group’s design director, shared insights into the Concept Skytop during an interview with BMW Blog. Hooydonk, who leads a team of roughly 700 designers chargeable for BMW, Mini, Rolls-Royce vehicles, BMW motorcycles, and…

Automotive Honda recently reiterated its dedication to electric vehicles (EVs), outlining an ambitious plan to speculate $65 billion by fiscal 2031 to propel EV models worldwide, notably within the U.S. and China. The corporate emphasized its steadfast belief within the efficacy of EVs, particularly for small mobility products like motorcycles and automobiles. By 2030, Honda goals for battery EVs and fuel cell EVs to constitute 40% of its global auto sales, with a production capability exceeding 2 million EVs globally. The cornerstone of Honda’s EV strategy is the introduction of the “0 Series,” a brand-new EV series conceptualized from scratch.…