Volkswagen has recently made a commitment to exclusively produce electric vehicles in Europe starting from 2033. This means that the Passat model we see now might be the last generation to feature combustion engines. However, it’s highly likely that the Passat name will continue even in the era of electric vehicles, considering its significance. Volkswagen has already confirmed that iconic models like Golf and GTI will not be discontinued.
The new Passat, which we had the opportunity to photograph at the 2023 IAA Mobility show in Munich, is no longer labeled as “Made in Germany.” With its internal codename B9, the production of this midsize car will take place in Bratislava, Slovakia, alongside the next-generation Superb. While the sedan version of the Passat is being discontinued, Skoda will continue to offer both the liftback and wagon variants. Interestingly, the new Passat has actually been developed by the Czech automaker.
Hyundai will have the ability to produce up to 1 million cars annually with the addition of this new plant
Hyundai is set to acquire General Motors’ land, buildings, machinery, and manufacturing equipment.
The combined production capacity of all three plants will enable Hyundai to manufacture up to 1 million cars per year.
The establishment of operations at this new plant is scheduled for 2025.
As part of the expansion, Hyundai is considering introducing new electric vehicles (EVs) to the Indian market.
Hyundai has signed an asset purchase engagement (APA) to acquire General Motors’ (GM) plant in Talegaon, Maharashtra. With this acquisition, Hyundai will possess three manufacturing facilities in the country, including two in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu.
Upon completion of the acquisition, Hyundai will take control of GM’s land, buildings, machinery, and manufacturing equipment at the plant. The carmaker aims to achieve a production capacity of up to 1 million units annually, with manufacturing operations starting in 2025. Currently, Hyundai’s two existing plants have a combined production capacity of 820,000 units annually. By increasing the GM plant’s current capacity of 130,000 units per year, Hyundai plans to meet its overall goal.
Furthermore, Hyundai will assess its plans to introduce more EVs in India, which will be produced at one of its Tamil Nadu plants. With the addition of a third manufacturing plant, Hyundai can expand its car offerings in India and reduce waiting periods, while also increasing its exports. Although the APA has been signed, the completion of the acquisition is subject to regulatory approvals and fulfillment of certain conditions.
Currently, Hyundai has 13 car models available in the Indian market, including two EVs – IONIQ 5 and Kona electric. Upgrades for models such as the Creta, i20, and Kona EV are expected to be launched next year.
Hyundai has also announced plans to launch a new EV specifically for the Indian market. A Hyundai Creta EV is a strong possibility as it has been spotted testing on multiple occasions. Additionally, Hyundai is expected to introduce an MPV with a similar price range to the Carens as an alternative to the Toyota Innova.
While Tata is gradually catching up, Hyundai has maintained its position as the second largest automotive company in India. This acquisition and increased production capacity will help Hyundai not only protect its market share but also further expand it.
We partnered with BRC Racing, Yamaha, and other industry-leading companies to create the YZ500 two-stroke, which could be the bike that Yamaha needs to produce soon. In this week’s 2-Stroke Tuesday, brought to you by Decal Works, we’re giving you the first look at our finished project.
We took a stock 2023 Yamaha YZ250 chassis and replaced the 250cc engine with a 500cc engine from BRC Racing in Canada. To enhance the appearance of the stock machine, we installed all black plastics from Acerbis, custom graphics from Backyard Designs, an all black seat cover from Seat Concepts, and an Edge Wheel set from Dubya USA.
The kit includes a pipe designed specifically for the BRC Racing engine.
We equipped the bike with Edge wheels from Dubya USA and Mitas tires.
We added traction with IMS Products Core pegs and used FCP titanium mounting pins.
The BRC engine can be easily installed in the modern Yamaha YZ250 chassis without major frame modifications.
The Seat Concepts gripper seat cover, available now, matches the color scheme of our project, but it comes in various color combinations.
The radiator hose mounting locations need to be changed, and different hoses are required.
We installed an Xtrig ROCS triple clamp with PHDS handlebar mounts to reduce vibrations.
The BRC engine fits perfectly in the YZ250 chassis, utilizing all available space.
With the build process complete and the studio shots taken, it’s time to hit the track! Stay tuned to our YouTube channel for our first riding impressions.
Ford’s mid-engine recipe has proven the American automaker’s ability to produce high-performing mid-engine supercars. But as the American speed and performance landscape evolves with every new advancement in modern tech and functionality, the race between manufacturers to capture the market becomes more competitive, as having the biggest engine is no longer enough to outsell top brands.
With Ford retiring their mid-engine icon, the Ford GT, the potential for a new model to occupy the mid-engine slot on the Ford roster grows. And where there’s potential, there’s speculation.
Speculation only became more convincing as the Blue Oval recently trademarked the long-discontinued Thunderbird name. For illustration, the Thunderbird was originally set to compete against the Chevrolet Corvette in the mid-50s, actually outselling Chevrolet’s legendary coupe 23:1 on release.
Chevy’s recent transformation of the popular Corvette from front-engine to mid-engine beginning with the eight-gen Vettes was received well by the speed community and supercar fans alike. Watching the C8 Corvette adopt an entirely new appearance and engine layout with the great success gave way to ideas involving other performance vehicles making the mid-engine switch. Among those, is the Thunderbird.
The trademarking of the Thunderbird name and discontinuing of the GT, as well as Chevy converting the Corvette to mid-engine, adds fuel to the rumors of a modern mid-engine potential face-off between the rival automakers in the near future.
Ford’s mid-engine design proved to be a groundbreaking innovation when introduced in the 1960s, with the Ford GT40 dominating Ferrari at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. When introduced to the public in the form of the 2005 Ford GT, the initial responses were mixed, with the high-dollar price tag putting a barrier between the average consumer and the product.
Nevertheless, the mid-engine icon went on to become one of the most beloved and sought-after supercars of the 21st century. The prospect of a mid-engine Mustang or Thunderbird could remove the barrier presented by the Ford GT by offering a more accessible and affordable mid-engine sports car, potentially drawing the same amount of attention, and sales, as the popular C8 Corvette.
The mid-engine Corvette has captured the attention of enthusiasts, with its many trim levels offering a wide array of optional and standard features, many of which improve driving experience.
Meanwhile, Ford’s most recent performance model, the seventh-generation S650 Mustang, hit markets with upgrades of its own, including a race-oriented Dark Horse Model boasting aftermarket brakes, tires, dampers, gearbox, and suspension, among others.
Notable 2024 Mustang Dark Horse Aftermarket Upgrades:
The Mid-Engine Mustang Would Challenge The C8 Corvette
Yasid Design / TopSpeed
Though it’s not highly likely that Ford will convert the Mustang to a mid-engine layout, the Dark Horse’s naturally aspirated fourth-gen Coyote engine could potentially outpace the C8 Stingray’s 495-horsepower LT2 engine, if given the proper environment (i.e., Ford’s proven high-performance touch).
And while the twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter unit in the 2023 Ford GT pumps out 660 horsepower and 550 pound-feet of torque, for Ford to truly improve its mid-engine recipe enough to compete with the competition, a less exotic engine option would need to be considered, at least for an affordable base mid-engine model trim.
Chevrolet
As observed in the eighth-gen Corvettes, the mid-engine layout accommodates more engine room, particularly engine height, meaning the idea of an even bigger naturally aspirated mill, possibly even a variant of the 3.5-liter V-6 featured in the 2022 Ford GT, in a mid-engine Mustang, or Thunderbird, isn’t out of the question.
Renderings of a mid-engine Mustang inspired by the Ford GT bring the idea to life as familiar features from both icons shine through this futuristic design. Resembling the supercars of today, including the C8 Corvette, Ferrari 360 Modena, and of course, the GT, this rendering gives us a potential platform in which to build speculation about the attributes of a future mid-engine Ford.
The active aerodynamics in the rendering call back to Ford’s innovative designs that have been refined over decades of wind tunnel testing, including the famous teardrop body style, the large air dams, and aggressive diffusers. Though not exclusive to the Blue Oval, the race-inspired functional design of the body is something that Ford excels at.
Powertrain-wise, Ford’s mid-engine powerhouse design is far and above the most refined of any American automaker, with the GT consistently outperforming top American competitors including the C8 Corvette.
That’s not to say that a mid-engine Mustang or Thunderbird would instantly capture the top spot, however, the inspired design and forward-thinking nature of Ford’s high-performance department almost guarantees a seat at the table.
When talking about realistic Ford mid-engine candidates, the Thunderbird name rises above the chatter. With Ford recently taking interest in the discontinued name, along with track testing the mid-engine C8 at their test facilities in 2021, enthusiasts and internet sleuths have pieced together speculative signs of a Thunderbird revival, possibly mid-engine.
The Future Of Ford’s Mid-Engine Options Could Include Thunderbird
Yasid Design/TopSpeed
Whether Ford moves forward into the future with their refined Mid-engine recipe is all speculation at this juncture, yet many can’t help but visualize the direction they’d take.
With the mid-engine Mustang, the idea of converting such a familiar front-engine muscle car to a mid-engine layout is enough to put Ford in the headlines. And with the Thunderbird, speculation, and evidence of Ford’s interest in reviving the name has the internet re-imagining the discontinued model as a modern mid-engine weapon.
And though the Thunderbird, before its dissolution, took the luxury route, many speculate that if Ford moves forward with the mid-engine layout in mind, the future Thunderbird could emerge with an entirely different attitude and purpose.
Ford
Ford’s modern accessories, including aftermarket performance upgrades and top-of-the-line tech, could take their mid-engine recipe to the next level, as many of the modern amenities offered by the competition are omitted from Ford’s mid-engine GT to put focus on the performance. Many of the complaints surrounding the GT are of passenger space and lack of creature comforts.
Some speculate that, with premium amenities and optional upgrades, such as those offered in the latest seventh-generation Mustangs, Ford’s decked-out mid-engine option would attract more consumers looking for a proper daily driver and a weekend track weapon, similar to the Corvette fan base.
Even though the interest is real, everything involving the mid-engine Mustang and Thunderbird revival is all speculation for now. Regardless, the potential for a new mid-engine model from Ford continues to draw in enthusiasts, each with their own take and opinions on the matter.
McLaren introduced the 765LT as a special edition of the 720S. Only 765 examples of this long-tail variant were planned for production, making it a rare find. However, the aftermarket scene has not overlooked this supercar, offering various upgrades.
This particular vehicle features a wrap from a company called Fostla.de Concepts located in Hannover, Germany. The wrap complements the car’s existing carbon-fiber elements, such as the mirror caps. Additionally, splashes of orange accentuate the front splitter, side blades, front trunk, roof, wing, and rear diffuser.
KTM has recently unveiled the 2024 KTM 500 EXC-F SIX DAYS special edition motorcycle. While these special edition bikes may not be everyone’s cup of tea, the fact that KTM continues to produce them brings joy to the Dirt Bike team. Here are the official images and details provided by KTM:
The 2024 KTM 500 EXC-F SIX DAYS is a dual-sport machine that proudly displays the Argentinian flag, marking only the second time in history that this collaboration has taken place. In November 2023, hundreds of riders and thousands of fans will gather in Argentina’s Cuyo region for six days of exhilarating racing. Like the International Six Days Enduro (ISDE), the 2024 KTM 500 EXC-F SIX DAYS is designed to provide riders with the ultimate off-road experience. The bike features an almost entirely new chassis, with around 95% of its components being new and improved for maximum performance in endurance racing.
In addition to a new high-gloss orange powder-coated frame, the 2024 KTM 500 EXC-F SIX DAYS boasts closed-cartridge suspension, updated bodywork, unique SIX DAYS Argentina graphics, and cutting-edge technology. Here are some of the additional parts included:
Orange frame protectors
SIX DAYS-specific seat with enhanced grip
Handlebar with unique SIX DAYS bend
Anthracite-coated muffler featuring the SIX DAYS logo
GIANT high-strength rims with SIX DAYS logo
Orange-anodized CNC machined triple clamps
Orange front axle puller
Semi-floating front brake disc
Solid rear brake disc
Rear brake safety wire
Orange chain guide
Composite skid plate
Radiator fan
The 2024 KTM 500 EXC-F SIX DAYS continues the legacy of an enduring tradition that spans nearly 20 years. With over 30 years of racing experience and an impressive collection of more than 126 World Enduro titles, many of which were earned at the ISDE, this special edition bike is a testament to KTM’s commitment to the sport.
The all-new 2024 KTM 500 EXC-F SIX DAYS will be available at authorized KTM dealers starting August 2023. For more information, please contact your local KTM dealer.
Hennessey has unveiled a powerful upgrade for the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing, boosting its engine output to a remarkable 1,000 horsepower and 966 pound-feet of torque. This is a significant improvement compared to the stock model, which produces 668 hp and 659 lb-ft.
To achieve this extra power, Hennessey made several modifications to the supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine. They added ported cylinder heads, an HPE camshaft, and new components for the valves, lifters, and pushrods. The stock supercharger was replaced with a larger one. Additional enhancements include oversized heat exchangers, a high-flow air intake, stainless steel headers, and revised engine management software.
Hennessey claims that their 1,000-hp Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 2.5 seconds, compared to around 3.5 seconds in its original configuration. The upgraded sedan can also cover a quarter-mile in just 10.1 seconds. While the tuner hasn’t provided a specific top speed figure, they state that it surpasses the standard model’s 205 mph limit.
Aside from the power upgrade, Hennessey has kept the rest of the CT5-V Blackwing unchanged. The vehicle still features the Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 suspension system and offers carbon-ceramic brakes as an optional upgrade, which weigh 53 pounds less than the standard steel rotors.
Inside the Blackwing’s cabin, there is a 12.0-inch digital instrument cluster with three display modes: Tour, Sport, and Track. The vehicle also includes features like launch control and a Performance Traction Management system.
The 2023 CT5-V Blackwing starts at $93,390 after the $1,395 destination charge. However, Hennessey is not currently accepting orders for the 1,000-hp upgrade. The company plans to offer the tune starting in August 2023.
Looking ahead, the 2024 CT5-V Blackwing will feature a few upgrades. Commemorating the 20th anniversary of Cadillac’s V Series models, it will have special badges on the grille and lower portion of the front door. Additionally, the driver info display will have a new wake-up animation. Several new colors will be available, including Velocity Red, Cyber Yellow Metallic, Coastal Blue Metallic, and Black Diamond Tricoat. Vehicles equipped with the 10-speed automatic transmission will also have the option of GM’s Super Cruise hands-free driving assist.
New BMW Group Plant Woodruff will produce high-voltage batteries for fully electric BMW X models at Plant Spartanburg.
Investments of $700 million in the construction of the new Plant Woodruff and $1 billion in Plant Spartanburg in preparation for electric vehicle production
Local for Local: short distances between cell supplier, battery assembly, and vehicle production plant
Woodruff, S.C., U.S.A. – The BMW Group broke ground for a new high-voltage battery assembly plant in Woodruff, South Carolina, signaling a major step towards building electric vehicles in the United States. The BMW Group Plant Woodruff will produce sixth-generation batteries to supply fully electric vehicles at nearby BMW Manufacturing in Spartanburg. The plant is expected to create over 300 jobs and has potential for further growth.
According to Ilka Horstmeier, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for People and Real Estate, the new battery assembly plant in Woodruff will play a vital role in the company’s electric future in the USA. The expansion is not just about increasing the company’s footprint in South Carolina, but also about preparing the associates for future electric vehicle production through the new Technical Training Center at the Spartanburg plant.
Robert Engelhorn, president and CEO of BMW Manufacturing in Spartanburg, stated that the groundbreaking ceremony marks the beginning of a new era for Plant Spartanburg, which will now produce fully electric BMW X models for the global market. The Woodruff plant is expected to be state-of-the-art, focusing on sustainability, flexibility, and digitalization.
Extensive Investments in Plants Spartanburg and Woodruff
In October 2022, the BMW Group announced a significant $1.7 billion investment in its U.S. operations. This includes $1 billion for preparing Plant Spartanburg for the production of fully electric vehicles and $700 million to construct a new high-voltage battery assembly plant in Woodruff. The Woodruff facility will occupy approximately 100 acres of land and will house various buildings such as a technology building, cafeteria, fire department, and energy center.
Local for Local: Short Distances between Battery and Vehicle Production.
To promote localization, the BMW Group will source battery cells for its electric vehicles from partner AESC’s new battery cell factory in Florence, South Carolina. The cells will be specifically designed for the sixth generation of BMW eDrive technology, offering increased energy density, faster charging speed, and extended range. The company aims to reduce the carbon footprint in battery cell production by up to 60 percent by utilizing cobalt, lithium, and nickel that include secondary material and by using green power from renewable energy sources.
High Ecological Standards: Binding CO2 when pouring concrete
The BMW Group Plant Woodruff, known as the next BMW iFACTORY, will meet high ecological standards. The plant will operate without fossil fuels, relying solely on 100% green electricity. The BMW Group has set a goal to reduce CO2 emissions in its global production network by 80 percent by 2030 compared to 2019. The plant will have photovoltaic systems installed on its roofs, use intelligent LED lighting with motion detectors and efficient dimming strategies, and collect rainwater for non-production purposes. Furthermore, an innovative technology that injects captured CO2 into the fresh concrete during the mixing process will be used, enhancing both carbon sequestration and concrete strength.
BMW Group in South Carolina
Since 1992, the BMW Group has invested around $12.4 billion in its South Carolina operations. BMW Manufacturing in Spartanburg is the largest BMW Group plant globally, producing over 1,500 vehicles each day. The plant is crucial for meeting the high demand for BMW Sports Activity Vehicles and Coupes in the U.S. and international markets. Approximately 60 percent of BMW vehicles sold in the U.S. in 2022 came from Plant Spartanburg, showcasing its significance. The plant has a production capacity of up to 450,000 vehicles annually and employs over 11,000 people.
Ongoing Commitment in the U.S.
Aside from sales and marketing operations, the BMW Group has a strong presence in the U.S., with nearly 30 locations in 12 states and a wide dealer network. The company’s operations, both directly and indirectly, provide and support more than 120,000 jobs in the U.S. and have contributed $43.3 billion to the U.S. economy. The BMW Group aims to continue making significant contributions to the country’s automotive industry.
As part of its effort to position itself as a “brand of joy, colours, and optimism,” Fiat has decided to stop producing cars painted in grey, despite it being the most popular car colour in the UK. The change will begin with the release of the 600, Fiat’s answer to the Jeep Avenger, which will be available for sale later this year. The new strategy aims to give Fiat’s cars a distinctive character in their respective markets and provide the company with a competitive advantage.
Grey has traditionally been the preferred colour choice among UK customers, with over a quarter of new cars sold in the country last year being grey. Fiat’s CEO, Olivier Francois, explained that the decision to eliminate grey cars is intended to reinforce the brand’s leadership in joy, colours, and optimism. The change aligns with the company’s vision of conveying the values of “dolce vita” and the Italian DNA embodied by the brand.
In conjunction with the elimination of grey cars, Fiat has introduced a new tagline: “Italy. The land of colours. Fiat. The brand of colours.”
Fiat’s current lineup includes five models: the 500, electric 500, 500X, Panda, and Tipo. All of these models are now available in white, orange, red, blue, green, gold, and black, with each colour named after Italian landscapes.
This decision follows a series of changes made by Fiat as it transitions to becoming an all-electric car manufacturer by 2030. The company will continue producing small cars and has plans to introduce five new models within the next five years, in addition to its existing electric Fiat 500. Furthermore, Fiat is developing a range of models based on the 2019 Centoventi electric concept, which may see the revival of the Panda nameplate.
Modifying the engine of a vehicle can lead to impressive results, especially when it comes to an unassuming car like a regular city car. With some clever modifications and a bit of bravery, a boring hatchback can be transformed into a powerful sleeper. And that’s exactly what happened with the Volkswagen Polo featured in the video above.
Posted on the CCD Video YouTube channel, the 8-minute video showcases how the modest 1.9-liter turbo-diesel engine of the Polo can outperform stock cars that cost more than ten times its price. The base price for a Polo in Germany is around $22,800 (20,830 Euro).
Of course, the Polo in the video is far from stock. It has been upgraded with enhanced injectors, a better cam, a larger turbocharger, and improved intake and exhaust pipes. The sub-assembly remains stock, but there’s a surprising addition to the blacked-out Polo—nitrous oxide.
The first dyno run was done using only the boost from the turbocharger. The 1.9-liter TDI produced 366 horsepower and 587 Newton-meters of torque with approximately 40 pounds per square inch (2.8 bar) of pressure from the hybrid turbo.
When nitrous was introduced, the car achieved 472 hp and 789 Nm. But it didn’t stop there. After a couple more dyno runs, the small Polo managed to reach an impressive 513 hp and 865 Nm from its highly modified diesel engine.
This power output exceeds that of a base Porsche 911, which generates 379 hp from its twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter flat-six engine. It’s also more powerful than a Dodge Charger Scat Pack with its 485 hp 6.4-liter V8 engine. The Porsche starts at $114,400, while the Charger has an MSRP of $50,330.
Furthermore, the interior of the Polo has been stripped down, resulting in some weight reduction. This makes it a true sleeper car that can likely outperform many vehicles that are much more expensive than the modest Polo.
What do you think about this impressive performance? Watch the video above and share your thoughts in the comments section below.
Unlock Your Automotive Passion and Explore the Road Ahead
