Dodge Charger Sixpack SEMA

While the future of the V8 remains uncertain, Mopar is making waves at SEMA this year with the new Charger Sixpack. Finished in Stryker Purple and simply named “Moparized Dodge Sixpack Charger concept,” this build demonstrates how customers can extract more power, performance – and yes, more sound – from their new sedans powered by an inline six-cylinder engine.

Unique Design and Performance

This concept features numerous innovations, some specifically dedicated to improving performance. Mopar fans will recognize the Brass Monkey wheel finish, which perfectly complements the Katzkin leather interior trim. The hood is made of authentic carbon fiber, as is the front spoiler and rear wing. According to Dodge’s announcement, the fender vents are functional and contribute to the Charger’s aerodynamic performance by releasing accumulated air pressure in the wheel wells.

Carefully Thought-Out Interior

Inside, several aesthetic enhancements complement the aforementioned seat upholstery. Mopar pedal covers and all-weather floor mats (floor, cargo area) complete the package for a premium and functional finish.

Remarkable Technical Innovations

The Charger Sixpack incorporates sophisticated technical solutions that go beyond mere aesthetic tuning. The extensive use of authentic carbon fiber represents a significant investment in weight reduction while maintaining optimal structural rigidity. The functional fender vents are not just a stylistic element – they actively participate in managing airflow around the vehicle at high speeds.

Equipment and Finishes

The level of detail in this concept car is exceptional. The Brass Monkey wheels, specially developed for this project, establish a visual continuity between the exterior and interior. The Katzkin leather upholstery is not just a luxury covering but genuine automotive craftsmanship with contrasting stitching and exclusive patterns. The Mopar all-weather mats provide complete protection while maintaining the overall elegance of the cabin.

Market Positioning

This Charger Sixpack concept demonstrates Dodge’s commitment to maintaining a performance offering despite the transition to six-cylinder engines. The manufacturer thus proves that automotive enthusiasm can endure without necessarily resorting to traditional V8s. The Mopar accessories presented pave the way for a new era of customization for modern Charger owners.

Future Prospects

The elements featured on this concept car could well foreshadow future options available to Dodge customers. Each component was developed with potential mass production in mind, ensuring these innovations won’t remain confined to the world of concept cars. The SEMA Charger Sixpack thus sets a new standard for high-performance sedans with six-cylinder engines.

Subaru and the Electrification of the STI Legend

Fasten your seatbelts, because the STI emblem isn’t dead; it’s merely dormant. When this legendary badge makes its comeback, it could adorn an electric car, marking a new era for automotive performance.

The Performance-E STI Concept Unveiled at the Japan Mobility Show

Last Tuesday, at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, Subaru revealed the surprising Performance-E STI concept. Subaru’s design director, Shin Imai, told The Drive: “We are considering it, yes,” answering the crucial question about the potential release of an electric vehicle bearing the STI badge.

A Tribute to Historical Models

Imai clarified that the Performance-E STI concept does not directly represent a future production model. However, he emphasized that the design team has strived to “capture some elements of our historical STI vehicles, like the 22B, in this program.”

References to the STI Heritage

Among the iconic features of the 22B are its huge round headlights, typically covered and displaying STI logos. The current concept reinterprets this element with massive STI logos positioned on the lower flaps of the front air intake.

The Transition to Electric

This shift towards electrification represents a strategic turning point for Subaru. The Japanese brand, known for its all-wheel-drive vehicles and boxer engines, is now exploring the possibilities offered by electric propulsion while preserving the performance DNA of the STI division.

Preserved Sporting Legacy

The challenge lies in translating the characteristics that made thermal STIs successful – agility, road holding, and driving sensations – into the electric realm. Engineers are working on weight balance, torque distribution, and dynamic behavior to deliver an authentic driving experience.

Automotive Market Outlook

The potential arrival of an electric STI aligns with the overall trend in the automotive industry towards zero emissions. Performance enthusiasts may need to adapt to new sensations, but the competitive spirit that drives STI vehicles should endure thanks to the immediacy of electric torque.

Tesla’s Cybercab Might Finally Have a Steering Wheel

In a surprising statement, Robyn Denholm, Chair of Tesla’s Board of Directors, revealed that the Cybercab could be equipped with a steering wheel and pedals if necessary. This announcement contradicts remarks made by Elon Musk last week, who claimed the vehicle would be fully autonomous without these traditional components.

A Strategic Divergence Within Tesla

Robyn Denholm’s position appears to reflect a more pragmatic approach regarding the deployment of the Cybercab. While Elon Musk had proudly announced that production would begin in eight months with a vehicle without a steering wheel or pedals, the Board Chair suggests that Tesla might adopt a compromise solution.

This flexibility in the Cybercab’s design could prove strategic for Tesla, allowing the company to more easily adapt to different international market regulations concerning autonomous vehicles.

The Context of the Japan Mobility Show 2025

These statements come as the global automotive industry gathers at the Japan Mobility Show 2025. This major event highlights the latest innovations in mobility and allows manufacturers to present their future vision of transportation.

The Cybercab represents an ambitious project for Tesla in the field of autonomous vehicles and shared transport services. The possibility of including a steering wheel and pedals could facilitate its adoption by the general public, which remains wary of fully automated driving technologies.

Governance Questions at Tesla

Alongside these revelations about the Cybercab, Robyn Denholm also addressed the uncertainties surrounding Elon Musk’s compensation. The Board Chair confirmed that Tesla is considering internal candidates to lead the company if Elon Musk were to leave, particularly if shareholders do not approve his compensation package with a potential value of $1 trillion.

This statement highlights the governance challenges Tesla faces as the company navigates between radical technological innovation and traditional operational constraints.

The Future of Autonomous Mobility

The debate over the presence or absence of a steering wheel in the Cybercab reflects broader tensions in the automotive industry regarding the pace of adoption of autonomous vehicles. While some advocate for an immediate transition to driverless vehicles, others recommend a more gradual approach.

Robyn Denholm’s flexible position regarding the steering wheel and pedals could represent a smart strategy for Tesla, allowing the company to test the market with different configurations depending on the region and the maturity of local regulations.

Implications for Production

The production of the Cybercab, scheduled within the next eight months according to Elon Musk, could be affected by this potential decision to include a steering wheel and pedals. This design flexibility would require adjustments to production lines and could influence the launch timeline.

The modular approach suggested by Robyn Denholm would allow Tesla to offer different versions of the Cybercab, thus adapting to customer preferences and the regulatory requirements of each market.

Mazda Vision X-Compact

Among the two concepts presented by Mazda this week, the Vision X-Compact appears as the most plausible for series production. This small hatchback displays a decidedly assertive style, and Mazda promises that it will be backed by equivalent substance, if a digital concept can possess any.

A Design That Instantly Captivates

It must be acknowledged that this concept is visually very successful. To our trained eyes, it evokes a third-generation Mazda Carol that has undergone a rejuvenation cure in an Italian design workshop. Its city car aesthetics strongly suggest a potential successor to the Mazda2. According to Mazda’s statements, this vehicle will have a personality to match its appearance, but probably not in the way usually expected from an automobile. You guessed it: artificial intelligence is in the loop.

A Powertrain Still Shrouded in Mystery

Since Mazda has provided no information regarding its mechanical underpinnings, we are left to speculate about the powertrain of this charming little hatchback. Given the apparently strengthened ties between Mazda and Toyota, one could bet on a kinship with the Yaris, likely sharing the future Toyota subcompact’s powertrain lineup. Given the source, hybrids seem probable, but with the growing popularity of affordable electric vehicles, both abroad and here, it’s difficult to rule out any possibility at this stage.

Artificial Intelligence Enhancing the Driver-Vehicle Relationship

Mazda is currently developing a revolutionary human-machine interface technology that would allow the vehicle to get to know its driver and anticipate their needs. This approach aims to create a more intuitive and personalized driving experience, transforming the car into a true road companion.

A Redesigned Interior for Well-being

The Vision X-Compact concept offers a minimalist cabin where every element seems to have been designed with a specific intention. The focus is on comfort and ergonomics, with quality materials and a layout aimed at reducing driving stress.

Positioning in the Premium City Car Market

With this concept, Mazda seems to want to redefine the urban vehicle segment by injecting a dose of technological and emotional sophistication. This approach could well create a new category of high-end city cars, combining urban agility and an enriched driving experience.

Production Prospects and Potential Timeline

Although still only a concept for now, the Vision X-Compact shows all the signs of a vehicle destined for production. Its refined design and realistic technologies suggest a possible market launch in the coming years, perhaps marking the beginning of a new era for Mazda’s urban vehicles.

The Long-Awaited Return of Mazda’s Rotary Engine

Since the discontinuation of the RX-8, Mazda has consistently reaffirmed its commitment to the rotary engine within its research and development laboratories. This iconic technology has been showcased in various forms: hydrogen engine, range extender for commercial electric vehicles, and even in its classic gasoline internal combustion version. One could almost imagine Mazda engineers celebrating each new iteration of the rotary with the same fervor as Hobbits celebrate their meals.

The Vision X-Coupe: A Revolutionary Approach

As with each new incarnation, the Vision X-Coupe model features innovative characteristics. While Mazda has already ventured into the world of electric vehicles with range extenders, the brand had never before explored the concept of a traditional plug-in hybrid. This new strategic direction naturally raises the question: why not now?

Mazda’s Strategic Evolution

The absence of the rotary engine in the current lineup is just one aspect of the profound transformation Mazda underwent between 2010 and 2025. The brand moved away from its mainstream marketing strategy, symbolized by the famous Zoom-Zoom slogan, in favor of a more premium and sophisticated approach. This reorientation is accompanied by a clear determination to push technological boundaries while preserving the brand’s sporting heritage.

Reinvented Rotary Technology

The new turbo rotary engine represents much more than a simple return to roots. Mazda used these years of development to address the historical challenges associated with this technology, particularly in terms of fuel consumption and emissions. The integration of a turbocharger optimizes performance while maintaining the characteristic compactness of rotary blocks.

A Vision for the Future

The Vision X-Coupe perfectly embodies this new philosophy. Its clean, aerodynamic design suggests a car looking toward the future while paying homage to iconic models like the RX-7. The sleek lines and balanced proportions reflect a carefully considered aesthetic pursuit, where every element appears optimized for efficiency and emotion.

Hybridization Serving Performance

The choice of a plug-in hybrid system represents a logical step in the evolution of the rotary engine. This configuration combines the benefits of electric power in the city with the passion of thermal power on the road. The rotary engine, with its compactness and low vibration, is particularly well-suited to this type of architecture, offering an interesting compromise between performance and energy efficiency.

Overcome Technical Challenges

The development of this new powertrain required major innovations in thermal management and apex seal endurance. Engineers also worked on integrating the turbocharger to ensure progressive response and avoid any turbo lag effect. The result is a mechanical system as performant as it is refined, capable of meeting the strictest environmental standards.

Prospects for the Mazda Lineup

This return of the turbo rotary engine could herald a new era for Mazda. The Japanese brand thus demonstrates its ability to innovate while respecting its technical heritage. The Vision X-Coupe is likely just the first step in a series of models that should redefine the brand’s sporting identity in the coming years.

Honda Completes Its Future Family of Electric Cars

The Japanese manufacturer Honda unveiled a new strategic model at the Tokyo Motor Show, significantly strengthening its offensive in the electric vehicle segment. The Honda 0 α represents a crucial step in the diversification of the brand’s electric offerings, specifically targeting the compact SUV market with an entry-level model expected in 2027.

A Strategic Positioning in the Compact Segment

The Honda 0 α is part of an overall strategy to develop affordable electric vehicles. This compact SUV aims to broaden the brand’s customer base by offering an electric alternative to traditional combustion models. Its modern design and reasonable dimensions make it a vehicle suitable for both urban use and suburban travel.

Expected Technical Features

Although the final technical specifications have not yet been fully revealed, initial information suggests that the Honda 0 α will benefit from the group’s latest technological innovations. The dedicated electric vehicle platform is expected to offer competitive range for the segment, while performance will be tailored for daily use.

The Importance of the Tokyo Motor Show for Honda

The choice of the Tokyo Motor Show to present this new model is not coincidental. This major automotive event allows Honda to assert its position in its domestic market while demonstrating its ability to innovate in the face of international competition. The presentation of the 0 α is part of a broader communication strategy aimed at positioning Honda as a major player in the electric transition.

An Expanding Family of Electric Vehicles

The 0 α does not come alone but integrates into a coherent range of electric vehicles that Honda is gradually developing. Each model meets specific needs and distinct market segments, allowing the brand to cover a broad spectrum of potential customers. This systematic approach demonstrates the maturity of the Japanese manufacturer’s electric strategy.

The Challenges of the Compact Electric SUV Market

The compact electric SUV segment represents a rapidly growing market, particularly in Europe and Asia. Consumers are looking for versatile vehicles that are economical to use and environmentally friendly. The Honda 0 α precisely meets these expectations by combining the benefits of an SUV with those of electric propulsion.

Competition in the Segment

The compact electric SUV market is gradually becoming more competitive with the arrival of new Asian and European models. The positioning of the Honda 0 α will have to take this market dynamic into account and offer a distinctive proposal in terms of design, technology, and value for money.

Commercialization Prospects for 2027

The 2027 horizon for the commercialization of the Honda 0 α gives the manufacturer time to refine its proposal and adapt its production to market developments. This period will also allow for the finalization of charging infrastructure and associated services, which are essential for the commercial success of an entry-level electric vehicle.

The arrival of the Honda 0 α marks an important step in the democratization of electric vehicles. By targeting the compact SUV segment with an accessible model, Honda is actively participating in the energy transition of the automotive sector while expanding its audience to new customer profiles.

Plug and Charge: How Does This Automatic Charging Technology Work?

Plug and Charge is set to revolutionize the electric vehicle charging experience in Europe. This innovative technology promises to significantly simplify the charging process by automating the entire transaction.

The Fundamental Principle of Plug and Charge

The Plug and Charge system operates on a principle of automatic identification. When a driver plugs their electric vehicle into a compatible charging station, it automatically recognizes the vehicle and starts the charging session without any manual intervention.

Major Market Players

Several companies are positioning themselves in this promising technological niche. Chargemap, a key player in electric mobility, is actively developing solutions that integrate this functionality. Other charging operators and car manufacturers are collaborating to standardize this technology across Europe.

The Concrete Benefits of Plug and Charge

Simplified User Process

The main advantage lies in its ease of use. No need for a badge, mobile app, or payment card: physically connecting the cable is enough to initiate and authenticate the transaction.

Enhanced Security

The technology uses digital certificates and advanced encryption protocols to ensure the security of data and payments. Each vehicle is uniquely identified, preventing any fraudulent use.

Significant Time Savings

By eliminating manual authentication steps, Plug and Charge significantly reduces the time needed to start a charging session. This smoothness improves the overall experience for electric vehicle users.

Standardization in Europe

The implementation of Plug and Charge follows international standards, particularly the ISO 15118 standard, which defines the communication protocol between the vehicle and the charging infrastructure. This standardization is crucial to ensure interoperability between different networks and vehicle brands.

Vehicle Compatibility

Recent vehicles are gradually integrating this technology. Car manufacturers are working to make their models compatible with the Plug and Charge standard, while charging network managers are adapting their infrastructures.

Future Prospects

In the medium term, Plug and Charge is expected to become the standard for electric vehicle charging in Europe. Its widespread adoption will help democratize the use of electric vehicles by removing the last practical barriers related to charging.

Integration with Smart Grids

In the longer term, this technology will enable better integration with smart grids. Vehicles will be able to communicate with the grid to optimize charging times based on demand and pricing.

The Persistent Additional Cost of Electric Cars

Fleet managers are facing an unexpected financial challenge with the electrification of their vehicle fleets. While electric vehicles promise long-term savings, certain expense categories reveal significant additional costs that question the immediate profitability of this transition.

The Higher Cost Item of Tires for Electric Fleets

One of the most surprising elements in the maintenance budget of electric vehicles concerns tires. Several studies show that tires on electric cars wear out up to 30% faster than those on equivalent internal combustion vehicles. This accelerated wear is explained by several technical factors specific to electric vehicles.

The Technical Causes of This Accelerated Wear

The additional weight of lithium-ion batteries represents the first factor of premature wear. An electric car typically weighs between 200 and 500 kg more than a comparable internal combustion model. This additional mass exerts constant pressure on the tires, accelerating their degradation.

The instant torque characteristic of electric motors constitutes the second determining factor. The power available immediately during acceleration generates maximum grip that wears out the tire rubber more quickly. Fleet managers particularly observe this wear on vehicles used in urban environments with frequent stops and starts.

The Impact on Fleet Management

For companies managing dozens or hundreds of vehicles, this additional tire cost becomes significant. The maintenance budget must be recalculated to include more frequent replacements, which directly affects the total cost of ownership. Some managers report replacement cycles reduced to 15,000-20,000 km compared to 30,000-40,000 km for similar internal combustion vehicles.

Necessary Solutions and Adaptations

Faced with this observation, fleet managers are developing several strategies. The first involves opting for tires specifically designed for electric vehicles, offering better wear resistance despite a higher purchase price. The second approach aims to optimize driving styles through adapted training for drivers.

Tire pressure is also subject to enhanced monitoring. Maintaining optimal pressure helps reduce wear while preserving vehicle range. Some companies invest in automatic tire pressure monitoring systems to ensure permanent tracking.

Market Evolution Perspectives

Tire manufacturers have identified this new market and are actively developing ranges dedicated to electric vehicles. These new products incorporate reinforced rubber compounds and structures capable of withstanding the specific constraints of electric mobility. In the medium term, this specialization should help reduce the cost gap with conventional tires.

Conclusion

The persistent additional cost related to electric car tires legitimately raises questions for fleet managers. While this element does not call into question the energy transition of the vehicle fleet, it requires an adaptation of maintenance and management strategies. Taking these technical specificities into account helps optimize the total cost of ownership and ensure the profitability of investments in electric mobility.

Tokyo Motor Show 2025: Lexus Unveils Surprising Concepts

The Japanese manufacturer Lexus made a mark at the 2025 Tokyo Motor Show by presenting a bold vision for its electric future. Among the three concepts unveiled, a surprising six-wheeled monospace particularly captured the attention of visitors and automotive experts.

The Future Generation of Premium Electric Sedans

These concepts represent an in-depth reflection on replacing the LS sedan, confirming that Lexus’s future flagship model will be fully electric. Designers and engineers have worked on different approaches to redefine automotive luxury in the era of electrification.

A Revolutionary Six-Wheeled Monospace

The most spectacular concept presented is undoubtedly the monospace equipped with six wheels. This unique configuration offers several significant advantages: improved stability, increased load capacity, and a rethought driving experience. The wheel arrangement allows for exceptional maneuverability in the city while ensuring optimal comfort on the highway.

Technological Innovations and Avant-Garde Design

The three concepts share a common philosophy: integrating the latest technological advancements into a decidedly futuristic design. The interior has been completely redesigned to take advantage of the possibilities offered by the electric platform, with optimized interior space and sustainable premium materials.

Lexus’s Electric Strategy Becomes Clearer

With these concepts, Lexus demonstrates its firm commitment to the electric transition. The manufacturer is not merely adapting its existing models but fundamentally rethinking its vehicle architecture to fully exploit the potential of electric powertrains.

A Reinvented Vision of Automotive Luxury

Lexus’s approach goes beyond simply replacing internal combustion engines. The Japanese manufacturer is exploring new forms, new configurations, and new user experiences. The six-wheeled monospace is the perfect illustration of this, combining the brand’s traditional elegance with radical innovation.

Outlook for the Premium Automotive Market

These concepts foreshadow the evolution of the premium segment in the coming years. Lexus clearly positions technological innovation and bold design as the new pillars of automotive luxury, meeting changing consumer expectations while anticipating future environmental regulations.

The 2025 Tokyo Motor Show was therefore an opportunity for Lexus to unveil its electric roadmap and announce a new era for its high-end lineup, with vehicles that push the conventional boundaries of the automobile.

At the Tokyo Show, Mazda Confirms Its Strategic Positioning

Present at the Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo, automaker Mazda unveiled two new vehicle concepts that confirm its distinctive approach in the global automotive landscape. While most manufacturers are accelerating their transition to electric vehicles, Mazda maintains its own path with a strategy firmly focused on hybrid technologies.

An Alternative Vision for Sustainable Mobility

Mazda persists in its automotive philosophy that favors a gradual and thoughtful approach to the energy transition. The Japanese manufacturer is betting on optimizing internal combustion engines and developing sophisticated hybrid technologies rather than following the general trend toward all-electric vehicles.

This position aligns with a long-term vision where diversity of technological solutions is considered essential to meet different consumer needs and the specificities of global markets.

The New Hybrid Concepts Unveiled

The two concepts presented in Tokyo perfectly embody this strategy. They are advanced hybrid vehicles that incorporate the manufacturer’s latest technological innovations while retaining Mazda’s DNA: cars with elegant design and dynamic road behavior.

These concepts demonstrate Mazda’s ability to innovate in the field of alternative powertrains without abandoning the qualities that have made it successful. The focus is on energy efficiency, emission reduction, and driving experience, three fundamental pillars of the brand’s technical philosophy.

A Thoughtful Industrial Strategy

Unlike many competitors announcing abrupt transitions to electric vehicles, Mazda adopts a more measured approach. The manufacturer considers hybrid technology an ideal transitional solution, particularly suited to markets where electric charging infrastructure is not yet sufficiently developed.

This position is based on a realistic analysis of industrial capabilities, consumer needs, and infrastructure constraints worldwide. Mazda favors gradual evolution over a technological revolution that could present significant economic and technical risks.

Innovation Serving Energy Efficiency

The technologies presented on the Tokyo concepts demonstrate advanced research in optimizing hybrid powertrains. Mazda is working on continuously improving energy efficiency, energy recovery during braking, and the harmonious integration of different propulsion systems.

The manufacturer is also developing innovative solutions to reduce vehicle weight and improve aerodynamics, thereby helping to decrease energy consumption regardless of the power source.

A Long-Term Vision for Mobility

Mazda’s strategy is part of a long-term perspective that considers the diversity of energy situations worldwide. The manufacturer believes that different regions will adopt different mobility solutions depending on their energy resources, infrastructure, and consumption habits.

By maintaining a diversified offering and investing in multiple technologies simultaneously, Mazda positions itself as a player capable of adapting to market developments while preserving its technical and philosophical identity.

Conclusion: A Unique Path in the Automotive Industry

The Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo confirmed that Mazda is resolutely pursuing its own path in the automotive industry’s energy transition. By favoring hybrid technologies and adopting a gradual approach, the Japanese manufacturer demonstrates that there are several possible paths toward more sustainable mobility.

This strategy, although different from that of most manufacturers, reflects a realistic and nuanced view of the technological and industrial challenges facing modern automobiles.