- Today in Cars
- Posts
- Wild Corvette Concept, Desert JDM Stash, Most Powerful V12
Wild Corvette Concept, Desert JDM Stash, Most Powerful V12
PLUS: New VW Truck, GT40 Auction, Audi Race Sale
2025-04-08
🚙
Releases & Reviews
GM’s Advanced Design Studio unveils a futuristic Corvette concept blending classic DNA with innovative EV propulsion. Its aerodynamic design features split-body styling and 3D printed, recycled-tyre lower elements, setting a new course for Corvette evolution.
Toyota’s 2025 GR Corolla review pits its engaging manual gearbox against a newly introduced automatic option. The turbo-three engine delivers 300 hp (224 kW) and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm), with the manual offering more raw, spirited performance despite suspension tweaks.
📈
Technology, Market Data & Analysis
Automakers are rapidly adapting to a new 25% tariff on U.S. vehicle imports, triggering production halts, price adjustments, and cost absorption measures. From Audi’s US import pause to BMW’s coverage for Mexican-built models, industry responses vary widely amid uncertain trade dynamics.
University of Michigan engineers developed a 20-nanometer lithium borate-carbonate coating that boosts EV battery charging speeds by 500%, reducing full charge time to under 10 minutes. The breakthrough also maintains 97% capacity after 100 fast charges, even at subfreezing -10°C conditions.
🛞
Car Culture
Hagerty takes viewers behind the scenes of a secret JDM car collection in Dubai slated for restoration. The footage captures rare models like the R34 GTR M spec and original classics, showcasing the passion for reviving Japan’s automotive heritage in an unexpected locale.
In this road-trip special, a classic Ferrari Testarossa takes on Scotland's famed NC500 and breathtaking scenic routes over 2,000 miles (approximately 3,218 km). The journey showcases impressive performance and nostalgic charm, merging high-speed thrills with rugged, picturesque landscapes.
🔧
Miscellaneous
Tesla is reportedly declining Cybertruck trade-ins amid sluggish sales and mounting inventory challenges. The automaker now forces owners to pursue Lemon Law remedies, while competitors like Polestar and Lucid offer incentives to attract Tesla switchers.
Zenvo unveils its Mjølner engine—a quad-turbocharged 6.6L V12 hybrid that produces 1850 hp (1379 kW), combining 1250 hp (933 kW) from the V12 with 600 hp (448 kW) from electric motors. The engine will power Aurora variants achieving 0-62 mph in 2.5–2.3 seconds and top speeds up to 280 mph (451 km/h).
🏁
Quick Links
JLR delays April shipments to address a 25 percent tariff that could add between $5,000 and $10,000 to new car prices, while leveraging existing US inventory to sustain supply during strategic planning.
Audi is offering the iconic R18 and RS5 DTM race cars with full factory backing, including spare parts and technical support, with the RS5 featuring a 2.0-liter engine delivering about 600 horsepower (448 kW) for exceptional track performance.
Volkswagen is developing a second-generation Amarok in Argentina with a $580-million investment and Chinese SAIC support, potentially adopting a monocoque design and dual powertrain options while repurposing 50 percent of Taos production assets.
Hyundai is prioritizing tactile buttons over oversized touchscreens to minimize driver distraction, with its design chief confirming that future interiors, including the Pleos platform arriving in Q2 2026, will retain physical controls in high-demand functions.
Ford’s only open-top GT40 that raced at Le Mans, chassis GT/109, has been restored to its authentic configuration, featuring a lightweight design of 2,350 pounds (1,065 kg) and a storied racing pedigree now set to be auctioned.
Ferrari may revive its manual transmission option in a limited-edition Icona model, despite over a decade since the last stick-shift, catering to enthusiasts seeking a more engaging driving experience.
The 2026 Ford Ranger Super Duty for Australia offers a 9,921-pound (4,496 kg) tow rating powered by a turbo-diesel V6 delivering 247 horsepower (184 kW) and robust off-road features, although it won’t hit U.S. roads.
Mercedes-Benz reported a 7% decline in first-quarter deliveries, with overall sales dropping from 568,400 to 529,200 units and battery electric vehicle sales falling by 10% amid softer demand in China and Europe.
Seen Through Glass takes the Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato off-road on a 500-mile (805 km) desert adventure, showcasing its enhanced ride height, unique off-road capabilities, and the thrill of a rare V10 supercar in extreme conditions.
The 2025 Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring PHEV integrates a 2.5-liter engine and electric motors for 266 horsepower (198 kW) while weighing 4,542 pounds (2,059 kg), offering a 27-mile (43 km) electric range and BlueCruise assist for enhanced efficiency.
Reply