Tag Archives: automakers

Motorsport

2024 Ford Explorer Spotted Again Uncovered, New Active Trim Confirmed

It’s a rare sight to see a car manufacturer’s upcoming vehicles driving around without any camouflage. However, Ford seems to be bucking the trend lately. Today, we have more spy photos revealing the fully exposed exterior of the 2024 Explorer, and when we say fully exposed, we mean it! Not only do we get a glimpse of the SUV’s mid-cycle refresh, but we also catch a new Explorer trim level in action. Introducing the Explorer Active.

How do we know it’s the Explorer Active? Well, there is a prominent chrome “Active” badge clearly visible on the liftgate. It seems that Ford is not trying to keep any secrets at this point. If the trim hierarchy follows that of the smaller Ford Escape, the Active variant will likely be positioned between the Base and XLT as a lower-spec version in the Explorer lineup.


News

Why The Fisker Ocean Will Give The Tesla Model Y A Run For Its Money

In the electric SUV market, automakers are competing to offer the best models. The Ford Mustang Mach-E, Volkswagen ID.4, Audi Q8 e-tron, Cadillac Lyriq, and Genesis GV60 are some of the luxury SUVs available. One notable competitor is the 2023 Fisker Ocean, which has entered the scene with impressive features. While the Tesla Model Y is currently leading the category, the Fisker Ocean offers a unique and appealing alternative. Developed by Henrik Fisker, the Ocean stands out with its exceptional range and value. These two electric SUVs have different approaches, so it’s important to consider your priorities before deciding. However, one thing is certain – the Fisker Ocean will give the Tesla Model Y a tough competition.

Related: Five Affordable EVs To Watch Out For In 2023

The Ocean Trumps The Model Y In A Lot Of Aspects

2023 Fisker OceanSpecs Comparison

Fisker Ocean One

Tesla Model Y Performance

Drivetrain

Dual Motor, AWD

Dual Motor, AWD

Power Output

540 Horsepower

450 Horsepower

Range

360 Miles

303 Miles

Acceleration (0-60 mph)

3.6 Seconds

3.5 Seconds

The Fisker Ocean, designed by Henrik Fisker, offers a sleek and practical design. It has a compact body with a spacious interior, making it smaller in size compared to the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Tesla Model Y, and Hyundai Ioniq 5. The Fisker Ocean is built on a bespoke platform called FM29, featuring a conventional skateboard design with MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link rear suspension. It is fitted with two electric motors from Magna Steyr, an experienced auto manufacturer based in Austria. The Fisker Ocean offers plenty of power and performance, with a dual-motor setup producing 540 horsepower and accelerating from 0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds. It also features optional 22-inch Air Glider wheels and a lighter construction using aluminum and plastics. Overall, the Fisker Ocean offers a unique and powerful driving experience compared to the Tesla Model Y.

Related: The Fisker Ocean Is An Underdog That Every Automaker Should Be Careful Of

Why The Fisker Ocean Is A Threat To The Model Y

Red 2023 Tesla Model Y
Tesla 
Rear three-quarter shot of the 2023 Tesla Model Y

The Fisker Ocean offers a minimalist interior design that is a refreshing change from the more traditional Tesla interiors. It features a small screen behind the steering wheel for the driver, a rotating 17.1-inch touchscreen display, and a Mali Blu dark blue interior as standard. The Ocean also has a unique mode that opens the roof panel, side windows, and rear glass to create a convertible-like feel. In comparison, the Model Y has a simpler interior with a large infotainment display at the center of the dashboard. The Model Y includes entertainment features like Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube apps, and it comes with Tesla’s Autopilot semi-autonomous driving system. In terms of battery options, the Fisker Ocean offers two choices – a lithium-iron-phosphate unit for a range of 250 miles and an NMC battery with a capacity of over 100 kWh for a range of 360 miles. The Model Y, on the other hand, offers a maximum range of 330 miles. When it comes to handling and comfort, the Fisker Ocean offers a more satisfying experience, with its lighter construction and better suspension compared to the Model Y.

Related: 10 EVs That Will Make for Great Overlanding And Camping Vehicles

The Fisker Ocean’s Flexible Pricing Gives It An Edge Over The Tesla Model Y

Silver 2023 Fisker Ocean
Fisker Media
Back 3/4 shot of the 2023 Fisker Ocean. 

In addition to its impressive features, the Fisker Ocean offers flexible pricing, making it a great value-for-money option. The entry-level Ocean Sport starts at $37,499, which is lower than the base Hyundai Ioniq 5. The mid-spec Ocean Ultra, priced at $49,999, offers a longer range compared to the Hyundai Ioniq 5 Limited AWD and even the Tesla Model Y Long Range, which is priced higher. The Fisker Ocean also offers an optional third row of seats for families. Fisker plans to offer flexible leasing options, allowing customers to return their vehicles anytime and recycling them after their lifespan. Additionally, the Fisker Ocean is backed by Magna Steyr, a renowned automotive manufacturer, and offers software-based upgrades for added value over time.

The Fisker Ocean brings a lot to the table, including its unique features and competitive pricing. It is still a relatively new player in the market, but it has the potential to make a significant impact. Only time will tell if it can live up to its promises, but there’s no denying that it will give the Tesla Model Y a tough competition.

News

History Of Toyota Pickup Trucks

Toyota is well-known for producing durable and tough vehicles, including SUVs and pickup trucks. In fact, it can be argued that Toyota is the brand that revolutionized the American truck industry.

Before the 1990s, pickup trucks were primarily used for work purposes and were not seen as cool or desirable. However, Toyota changed this perception with the introduction of their pickup truck models like the Tacoma, which appealed to outdoor enthusiasts and people who enjoyed off-roading and exploring. While these trucks can still handle work tasks, they have evolved into lifestyle icons.

Let’s take a closer look at the history of Toyota pickup trucks to understand their legacy.

RELATED: 10 Things That Make The Indestructible Toyota Hilux Invincible

It All Started In 1964

The first Toyota pickup truck entered the American market in 1964. It was called the Stout, but it wasn’t the model that continued the Toyota truck legacy. Toyota gained attention in the U.S. market in the 1970s when they imported the Hilux and rebranded it as the Toyota Pickup. This simple yet affordable truck quickly caught the attention of buyers, showcasing Toyota’s commitment to quality and reliability.

Unlike other automakers who focused on the domestic market, Toyota invested in creating a superior chassis and reliable engines for their pickup trucks. These trucks outperformed their competitors and became known for their longevity and performance.

RELATED: 10 Reasons Why People Still Love The Aging Toyota 4Runner

The 4Runner Changed The Trajectory Of The Toyota Pickup

In the 1980s, Toyota made a significant impact on the pickup truck market with the release of the 4Runner. Based on the SR5 Hilux, the 4Runner created a new segment for lifestyle trucks. Seeing the success of this type of vehicle, Toyota decided to include their pickup truck models in the same category.

Kevin Hunter played a crucial role in the transformation of Toyota pickup trucks. He introduced the first Tacoma in 1995, giving the pickup a name and enhancing its width, capability, and aesthetic appeal. The Tacoma became a lifestyle vehicle that was both stylish and high-performing.

To perfect their recipe, Toyota introduced new models and variations like the TRD and Prerunner. The Prerunner, in particular, was a rear-wheel-drive version of the truck and drew inspiration from the vehicle used to pre-run off-road courses before races.

RELATED: The Real Reason Why The U.S. Doesn’t Get The Indestructible Toyota Hilux

Toyota’s Efforts Were Paying Off

By 2004, the Tacoma was trailing just behind the Ford Ranger in sales. However, with the release of the new model in 2005, the Tacoma surpassed the competition by selling 48,000 more units than the Ford Ranger that year.

The 2005 Tacoma boasted increased power and capability. Over the years, it received safety and exterior updates, making it one of the safest and most appealing small pickups on the market.

The third-generation Tacoma, released in 2016, introduced electronic off-road features and the TRD Pro model in 2017. The TRD Pro had a more aggressive appearance and was highly capable, solidifying the Tacoma’s position as the best-selling mid-sized truck in America.

RELATED: Here’s What Could Affect Toyota’s Legendary Reliability

3rd Generation Tacoma TRD PRO Off-Road Features

  • Better flowing exhaust
  • FOX suspension
  • Skid plates
  • Rear locker
  • A variety of electronic off-road assist systems

Recently, Toyota introduced the fourth-generation Tacoma with drastic updates. It is longer than ever before and for the first time, features a coil-sprung solid axle instead of rear leaf springs. The new Tacoma also includes additional off-road trims to cater to the lifestyle and outdoor market.

As the new model is still relatively new, its performance and reception are yet to be fully tested. Ford, however, is not lagging behind and has come up with the all-new Ranger to compete in this segment.

RELATED: Here’s Why The Toyota Tacoma Is NOT An American Hilux

Toyota May Be Swaying Away From Its Roots

In recent years, Toyota has shown signs of moving away from its traditional roots. Stricter emissions regulations have led to downsized engines paired with hybrid systems. The fourth-generation Tacoma, for example, features a 2.4-liter turbo four-cylinder engine paired with a hybrid system.

Engine Specifications: 2024 Toyota Tacoma Hybrid

While this engine offers more power and efficiency compared to its predecessor, it may not be as reliable due to increased stress from a smaller displacement with higher power output, and the complexity of the hybrid system. This trend can also be seen in the new Tundra and Land Cruiser models.

RELATED: Midsize Pickup Trucks To Consider Over The 2024 Toyota Tacoma

The popularity of Toyota trucks can be attributed to their focus on a lifestyle orientation in the original Tacoma model. However, it’s not the only factor. Toyota had already gained ground in the truck market due to their exceptional build quality.

Unlike other trucks of the time that used cheaper C-channel frames, Toyota trucks utilized fully boxed frames, providing greater durability and towing capacity. Additionally, Toyota engines were simple and reliable, allowing the trucks to last for hundreds of thousands of miles.

With the introduction of more appealing and versatile models, Toyota has expanded its pickup truck range to meet the evolving needs of buyers. Their reputation for building tough trucks has established a strong customer base built on trust.

Motorsport

Strong Chevy Malibu, Toyota Camry Sales Show Sedans Aren’t Dead

Despite the growing popularity of SUVs and trucks, sedan sales have actually been on the rise. In the first half of the year, over 500,000 new sedans were purchased, with some models experiencing significant increases in sales.

Although the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord continue to dominate the segment, the Chevrolet Malibu has caught attention with its impressive sales numbers. Despite rumors of its discontinuation, the Malibu recorded 40,731 sales in the second quarter of 2023, marking a 25.4% increase compared to the same period last year. Year-to-date sales for the Malibu have also increased by 34.4% from the previous year, making it the third best-selling vehicle in Chevrolet’s lineup.

2024 Chevrolet Malibu
2024 Chevrolet Malibu

While overall sedan sales were impacted by the supply-chain crisis of 2022, the surge in Malibu sales cannot be solely attributed to this. In fact, while Malibu sales are thriving, sales for the Equinox, another Chevrolet model, have dropped by almost 10%. It’s worth noting that the current-generation Malibu is already eight years old, with its last refresh occurring in 2019.

With other manufacturers like Ford and Buick discontinuing their sedan models, rumors of the Malibu’s demise seemed plausible. However, recent sales figures have led to speculation that a new model could arrive in 2025. When contacted, Chevrolet attributed the recent success of the Malibu to improved availability of parts and pent-up demand. However, the company declined to comment on the future of sedans in its lineup, considering the Malibu’s outselling of popular Chevrolet SUVs like the Tahoe, Traverse, Colorado, and Blazer.


Motorsport

Discontinued Land Cruiser, Fiat 500, Other Zombie Cars Sold In Q2 2023

As we move into the second half of 2023, automakers are releasing sales data for the first two quarters. One interesting trend that continues is the sales of models that have been discontinued for two or three years. Toyota, Alfa Romeo, Fiat, and other manufacturers are still reporting sales of these “zombie cars” in their sales reports.

In the last three months, Toyota managed to sell two Avalon sedans. This is surprising considering that the model was last produced in 2022 and is no longer available in the US market. The decline in sales can be attributed to changing consumer preferences for crossovers and SUVs. Despite Toyota releasing a new generation of the sedan in 2019, sales failed to improve and eventually led to the discontinuation of the model.


Motorsport

Watch Audi RS6 Performance Take on Mercedes E63 S and BMW M5 Comp in Drag Races

Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz have a long-standing rivalry, and these three German luxury automakers are always looking to outperform each other on the race track. The BMW M5 Competition, Mercedes-Benz E63 S, and Audi RS6 Performance, which are powerful family cars, recently showcased their impressive performance in a new video.

The Audi RS6 Avant Performance is the most powerful car in this group. Its 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine generates an impressive 630 horsepower and 626 pound-feet (850 Newton-meters) of torque. Audi channels this power through an eight-speed gearbox to all four wheels.


Motorsport

Gernot Dollner Becomes New Audi CEO, Replaces Markus Duesmann

Gernot Döllner is taking over as the Chairman of the Board of Management at Audi, replacing Markus Duesmann. The transition will occur on September 1. After leading Audi since April 2020, Duesmann will be departing the automaker.

Döllner expressed his honor and excitement about his new position, stating that Audi is an exceptional company with a rich history. He looks forward to working with the entire Audi team to shape the company’s future.

Since joining the Volkswagen Group in 1993, Döllner has steadily climbed the ranks. His journey began as a systems analyst for VW. In 1998, he moved to Porsche, where he led the Vehicle Concepts and Package department from 2001 to 2010. During this time, he also served as the project manager for developing the Porsche 918 Spyder. From 2011 to 2018, Döllner was in charge of the Panamera series before becoming the head of the Product and Concept department.

In 2021, Döllner returned to the Volkswagen brand, holding leadership positions in Group Strategy, Group Strategy Product, and the General Secretariat. He reported directly to VW Group’s then-CEO Herbert Diess.

Recently, Volkswagen Group CEO Oliver Blume criticized Audi during a presentation, acknowledging severe software problems that caused delays in launching electric products. Blume also mentioned that Audi’s products are not competitive enough in the Chinese market, with sales down by 16% in the first quarter of 2023 compared to the same period in 2022.

These software issues have also led to delays in several premium EVs. For instance, Audi had to postpone the introduction of its Audi-branded EV until 2027, initially planned for 2024. Bentley faced a similar delay, pushing its version to around 2030 instead of 2025.

Despite these challenges, Audi is gearing up to launch a range of A6 E-Tron EVs in the near future, with the first model expected to debut before the end of the year. Additionally, the Q6 E-Tron is also in the pipeline.

Featured

Ferrari Teases a New Car to be Unveiled June 29

As one of the most beloved and aspirational automakers in the world, any announcement from Ferrari is highly anticipated. With recent changes in its design language and approach to luxury and performance-focused innovation, Ferrari always keeps its fans on their toes when it comes to what’s next. In a recent Instagram post, Ferrari shared close-up teaser images of a new car that has yet to be officially revealed. The caption indicates that the big news will be unveiled tomorrow, June 29, at 12 noon CEST.

One of the standout images is a beautiful carbon fiber spoiler, suggesting that this new car will offer unrivaled performance and exceptional on-track capabilities. It represents a modern evolution of Ferrari’s racing heritage, which put the brand on the map more than three quarters of a century ago. While Ferrari has recently introduced vehicles like the Purosangue, showcasing their ability to create stunning four-door cars, and the Roma Spider, establishing their expertise in crafting beautiful open-top vehicles, this new Ferrari model pays homage to the manufacturer’s renowned racing roots. Fans of Ferrari’s rich racing history will undoubtedly be excited when the car is finally unveiled.

View All Ferraris For Sale

 
Motorsport

Plymouth Superbird and Ford Torino Talladega Barn Finds: Classic Race Cars Discovered

During the late 1960s, NASCAR was a hotbed of fierce competition among automakers. These were the days of the aero wars, with manufacturers pushing the limits of vehicle design to gain an edge on the racetrack. It was during this time that road cars closely resembled their race car counterparts. Recently, an exciting barn find uncovered a collection of high-performance race cars from this era.

This impressive collection includes several American-made models from the late 1960s. One standout is a 1969 Charger Daytona, painted in the iconic B5 Blue with a white stripe and blue interior. This vehicle is already undergoing restoration, along with several others in the collection. However, the barn also houses some rarer gems for enthusiasts to discover. Among them are several Plymouth Superbirds, known for their distinct big wings and aerodynamic noses. Some of these Superbirds are already being worked on, with one having its vinyl roof and nose removed. Additionally, one of the Superbirds featured a four-speed gearbox, while the rest were equipped with a 440-cubic-inch V8 engine and automatic gearboxes.

Also present in the collection are several 1969 Ford Torino Talladegas, which were a more aerodynamic version of the car. The Mercury variant, known as the Cyclone Spoiler, is also part of this barn find. These Torino Talladegas were produced in limited numbers, with rumors suggesting that less than 800 were made in the first few months of 1969. As a result, these cars are quite rare and highly sought after. They came in three different colors and featured power steering, power brakes, and an AM radio.

While not every car in the collection is destined for restoration, many of them are in decent enough condition to be revitalized. Unfortunately, there is a burnt-out Superbird that is beyond repair. Nevertheless, it’s exciting to think that there could be more NASCAR-related treasures hiding in barns across the country. It’s incredible how many forgotten or abandoned vehicles are out there, waiting to be appreciated by new owners. Though they may require some work, few of these cars are beyond salvage.