iRacing has just given virtual drivers a cutting-edge tool from Formula 1. The simulator announced a technical partnership with Cosworth, a giant in automotive engineering. This groundbreaking collaboration natively integrates Cosworth’s Pi Toolbox telemetry software directly into the iRacing ecosystem, providing users with professional features for free.

Pi Toolbox: The Power of F1 Telemetry for Everyone

Concretely, an upcoming version of Pi Toolbox will be able to read and analyze “.IBT” data files generated by the iRacing simulator. Drivers will thus be able to visualize and dissect their on-track performance with the same software used by professional motorsport teams. The integration promises to be seamless and intuitive.

Professional Features and Real-Time Teamwork

The agreement includes the creation of custom and pre-built workbooks, specifically designed for iRacing and new users. The most impressive feature is undoubtedly remote live telemetry. Your teammates or spotters will be able to follow your data live during a session and provide you with real-time feedback via voice communications.

A Native Integration for Unprecedented Analysis

Although third-party software already existed, this native integration with iRacing makes Pi Toolbox much more powerful and capable. In theory, drivers will be able to compare their simulation data with that of a real race car equipped with Cosworth technology, all within the same application.

Proof of Authenticity for iRacing

While many developers boast of technical partnerships, iRacing and Cosworth approach the issue from a different and much more functional angle. This partnership is a true testament to the authenticity and realism of the simulator, capable of interfacing with the same tools as real motorsport.

According to iRacing, members will be able to start using Pi Toolbox from September 16th.

Bobby Adams thought he had acquired a 1956 Lincoln Continental Mark II Sport Coupe for $31,000 at a Mecum auction. His final bid was the highest when the hammer fell, but immediately afterward, the auctioneer accepted a new bid, raising the offer to $32,000. Adams, furious with the decision to continue the sale, has since strongly criticized Mecum on social media, where thousands have taken his side.

A Filmed Scene and a Public Dispute

The entire incident was filmed by Adams’ personal team and Mecum’s filming crew. The widely shared video footage allows everyone to form their own opinion on the contentious sequence: had the hammer already fallen and the sale been announced as “sold” before the new bid was accepted?

Adams, along with thousands of internet users, is convinced that the Lincoln rightfully belonged to him. Witnesses in the crowd immediately challenged the Mecum staff’s decision, with some supporting Adams as he expressed his dissatisfaction in a very direct manner to the auction house.

Mecum Auctions’ Defense

Mecum, for its part, maintains that the sale was fair and was conducted in accordance with the regulations. Sam Murtaugh, Mecum’s Chief Operating Officer, provided an official response:

“If you listen carefully to the video on social media, you can clearly hear a bid being announced before the hammer fell. At that moment, the auctioneer exercised his discretionary power to accept the bid and continue the sale, in accordance with California law. Mecum Auctions represents both buyers and sellers, and the auctioneer has a dual responsibility, which includes ensuring that sellers get the highest possible price for their car.”

A Question of Legal Interpretation

The legality of the sale is being questioned based on the California Commercial Code, which states that ‘an auction sale is complete when the auctioneer so announces by the fall of the hammer or in another customary manner.’ Ironically, Mecum cites this same regulation to justify its actions, arguing that the announcement had not been definitively formalized.

The auction house also emphasizes that the bidder’s contract states that ‘the auctioneer’s determination in these circumstances is both final and non-appealable.’

No Lawsuit, but a Desire for Change

When contacted for comment, Adams indicated that several lawyers had offered to sue Mecum pro bono. However, he explained that this was not part of his plan for the time being.

“I’m not dying to sue anyone. But I want to see things change. I don’t think going to court would fix much. Even if I win, it won’t change how things operate. The real impact comes from people speaking out and showing what’s happening. That’s why I shared the video.”

Toward a New Project

Adams, a regular at auctions, is now working on launching his own platform. He states: “It’s time to bring about a change in how auctions work, and I intend to be the one to lead it.”

One thing is certain: Adams is not the happy owner of the 1956 Lincoln, and this case has dealt a serious blow to Mecum Auctions’ image.

The “Godfather of the GT-R,” Hiroshi Tamura, expresses his personal wish that future legendary Nissan models retain a combustion engine. As production of the R35 has just ended after an 18-year career, with no immediate successor, the Japanese brand’s sports car ambassador shares his vision for the future of the icon.

The End of an Era for the Nissan GT-R R35

Production of the Nissan GT-R R35 officially ended this week, closing 18 years of reign without a direct successor ready to take over. Nissan’s Chief Planning Officer for North America had mentioned a provisional R36, potentially turbocharged and electrified, developing over 600 horsepower, with a launch planned between 2028 and 2031. A horizon still far off.

The Personal Preference of the “Godfather”

Hiroshi Tamura, the former Chief Product Specialist of the R35 nicknamed the “Godfather of the GT-R,” offered his personal opinion on what he would like to see for the next generation. Spoiler: he wants it to keep its internal combustion engine.

“For any future generation of the GT-R, this is just a personal preference, but I would still like it to retain the sound of a combustion chamber,” Tamura said in a recent interview. However, he is keen to clarify: “This is not a hidden hint of the company’s intention, or a clue about a potential direction Nissan might take, but just my personal preference.”

A Passionate Ambassador

It is important to note that Tamura has since retired from his position in GT-R planning to take on the role of Nissan sports car ambassador. A role that suits him perfectly, as he witnessed the Hakosuka Skylines roaring on the Fuji circuit and drove a 240ZG daily in the 70s.

Customer Smile as a Philosophy

Beyond the powertrain, Tamura shares a crucial point regarding the future of the GT-R, which should reassure the most impatient fans.

“The starting point and the goal must always be to bring a smile to the customer’s face, to deliver genuine driving pleasure,” he states. “I tell people to be patient. We had a seventeen-year gap between the second generation and the R32, but Nissan never abandoned the GT-R.”

An Enduring Legacy

The GT-R emblem was indeed dormant before the arrival of the R32 in 1989, a decade that marked the beginning of its golden age. Despite its recent difficulties and corporate upheavals, Nissan still seems to regard the GT-R as its guiding star. The brand has not lost sight of its importance and clearly wants to perpetuate this legacy. While awaiting the next chapter, Tamura’s words leave us nostalgic, but confident in the future of the legend.

The Ford Mustang GTD is so wide that, in theory, it should be equipped with amber marker lights like a Ford Raptor. But Ford found a regulatory loophole to avoid them on this $325,000 gem.

A Width That Pushes Legal Limits

There is a reason why very wide vehicles, like the Ford F-150 Raptor or the Ram TRX, feature amber clearance lights at the front and rear. The reason is not aesthetic; it’s legal. The U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS 108) states that any vehicle 80 inches (about 203 cm) wide or more must be equipped with clearance and identification lights.

A standard Mustang is about 75 inches wide. The Mustang GTD, however, spans 81.8 inches, giving it almost cartoonish proportions. Theoretically, this width required the addition of the famous amber lights. Ford’s team was not enthusiastic about this idea and sought—and found—a way out.

The Loophole: Single-Purpose vs. Dual-Purpose Vehicle

Anthony Colard, head of design for the Mustang GTD, explained that the key to the problem lies in the vehicle’s certification. The regulation on clearance lights mainly applies to pickup trucks, SUVs, and trailers, as they are considered “dual-purpose” vehicles. This means they can be purchased by businesses and registered then used as utility vehicles.

Ford certified the Mustang GTD not as a dual-purpose vehicle, but as a “single-purpose” vehicle. In other words, its primary purpose is not work but performance. As Colard clarified: “It’s not a utility vehicle. It’s not like a big truck. You’re not going to tow anything with it.”

A Clever Technical Interpretation

Ford thus relied on a very precise technical interpretation of the FMVSS regulation to avoid having to add lighting reminiscent of a pickup truck. This move preserves the supercar’s clean and aggressive lines.

One question remains: what happens if an owner, who has a business, still decides to use their GTD as a service vehicle (for example, as a “taxi” on the track)? Technically, this could fall into the dual-purpose category. Ford relies on good faith and the intended use of the car, considering this an exception that proves the rule and validates their clever interpretation.

Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius stated that the planned ban on internal combustion engine car sales in Europe by 2035 is “simply unrealistic.” In an open letter to the European Commission President, he argued that the current timeline for reducing CO2 emissions needs to be “recalibrated.”

A Regulatory Context Deemed Unfavorable

Källenius justified his position by pointing to a “lack of a holistic and pragmatic political plan.” He also cited a long list of factors in the current regulatory and commercial environment that, in his view, “do not provide the necessary conditions for a successful transition” to electric vehicles.

Other Automotive News

Porsche’s Strategy Revision

Porsche has revised its battery strategy. Facing “difficult conditions,” the German manufacturer is abandoning mass production of its own batteries. It will now focus on research and development of high-performance cells.

BMW’s Warning

BMW CEO Oliver Zipse warned the automotive industry. He stated that manufacturers cannot afford to make mistakes, as “a selection process will take place in our industry.” This statement comes as BMW prepares to thoroughly revamp its electric vehicle lineup.

Ford Recall

Ford has issued a stop-sale order and recall for 355,656 F-Series pickups, including some Super Duty and 2025-2026 F-150 models. The issue stems from a digital instrument cluster that may not illuminate when the vehicle starts.

Price Cut at Ineos

Ineos has lowered the price of its Grenadier SUV in the U.S. market by 9.8%, following three months of increases. The model is now priced at $72,600.

RML GT Hypercar Unveiling

The RML GT Hypercar has debuted. It is a heavily modified Porsche 911 Turbo S (992.1) producing 907 horsepower. Its design is inspired by the Porsche GT1 that won at Le Mans in 1998.

The Porsche Macan Electric, barely on the market for a year, is starting the 2026 model year with several notable improvements. Among them, an AI language model for the Voice Pilot voice assistant, towing capacity increased to 2.5 tons, and most importantly, a clever and useful intelligent reversing function.

Reversing Assist: The Electric Macan’s Reversing Memory

Integrated into the optional 3D camera system with parking aid, the Reversing Assist function allows the SUV to automatically reverse along the last 50 meters traveled in forward gear. Porsche specifies that the system handles steering and acceleration, “with the driver only supervising the maneuver.”

A Technology Inspired by the Past

While Porsche is not the first manufacturer to offer this innovation – BMW introduced it six years ago – its implementation remains remarkable. Instead of relying solely on sensors, the system records the driver’s movements to replicate them in reverse. Developed by Bosch, this technology includes a crucial safety feature: the car stops automatically if an obstacle is detected.

Ideal for Tricky Situations

Porsche envisions a particular use on “narrow access roads or winding parking lots,” where reversing maneuvers can become complex. It is complemented by Trained Parking, which allows the memorization and replication of up to five customized parking maneuvers.

Other Refinements for 2026

Beyond parking, the 2026 Electric Macan gains support for digital keys (iPhone, Apple Watch, Android), advanced customization of the ambient lighting, and the integration of AirConsole for in-car gaming. These evolutions, coupled with the voice assistant and increased towing capacity, enhance the driving experience. Orders are open in the United States for deliveries scheduled for spring 2025.

If you’ve ever considered testing a Bosch power tool, this offer is for you. And if you already use the Bosch battery ecosystem, it’s a no-brainer. For its sale event, the home improvement store Lowe’s is offering a free power tool (to choose from 11 options) when purchasing a pack of two Bosch 18-volt 4 Ah lithium batteries.

The Offer: Buy a Battery Pack, Choose Your Free Tool

The promotional deal is simple: buy the Pack of Two Bosch 18-Volt 4 Ah Lithium Batteries and receive free one of the following 11 tools:

List of Available Free Bosch Tools

• 3/8″ Variable Speed Cordless Impact Wrench (value: $219)
• 3.25″ 4A 18V Cordless Planer (value: $229)
• 4.8″ Portable Band Saw (battery not included) (value: $399)
• 18V Jobsite Blower (value: $119)
• 4A Variable Speed Cordless Oscillating Multi-Tool (value: $159)
• 6-1/2″ Brushless Cordless Circular Saw (value: $219)
• 1-Speed Cordless Rotary Cut-Out Tool (battery not included) (value: $159)
• 1/2″ Brushless Variable Speed Cordless Impact Wrench (value: $199)
• Keyless Variable Speed Brushless Cordless Jigsaw (value: $169)
• Xtend Brushless Cordless Screwdriver (value: $159)
• 1/4″ 4A Brushless Cordless Fixed Base Router (value: $229)

An Offer Extended to High-Capacity Batteries

Lowe’s also offers the same deal with other battery packs. By purchasing the 8 Ah Lithium-Ion Battery Kit + Charger or the Pack of Two Profactor 18V 8 Ah Batteries, you can also qualify for a free tool, this time choosing from a selection of 7 models.

Bosch Quality and Compatibility

The reputation for durability and longevity of Bosch tools is well-established. Many models, such as cordless drills, are known to last for many years. Aggregated reviews on Lowes.com confirm this impression of quality for most tools included in this offer.

A major advantage: Bosch AMPShare batteries are compatible with tools from a long list of other brands, offering great flexibility, even though common American brands like DeWalt or Milwaukee are not included in this compatibility.

Production outside the United Kingdom is not ruled out for McLaren. A few weeks after Lotus considered leaving its historic site in Hethel, the new CEO of the British supercar manufacturer, Nick Collins, hinted that although Woking would remain the historic heart of the brand, building vehicles abroad was a possibility if it proved relevant.

Strategy and Restructuring at McLaren

Met during Monterey Car Week, Nick Collins now leads McLaren Automotive as well as McLaren Group Holdings, following the merger with the electric startup Forseven and a restructuring that resulted in the elimination of approximately 500 jobs. Faced with excess inventory at dealerships, the first decision was to voluntarily reduce production volumes to realign supply with demand and preserve the residual value of the vehicles.

Woking, the Preserved Geographic Soul

Despite these changes, one constant remains: the manufacturing of supercars will continue at the “spiritual headquarters of the company,” the McLaren Technology and Production Centers in Woking. Collins stated that this site would remain the operational base “for a very, very long period.” The goal is to maintain an optimal level of production there, ensuring world-class quality without compromise.

What Future for Production Abroad?

The CEO indicated, without going into details, that “some things might make sense to be built in other locations,” depending on Woking’s optimal capacities. The central question now is which models might be affected. The mythical SUV discussed for years seems to be the most obvious candidate, as do future fully electric models, an area where Forseven’s expertise could be leveraged.

Imprisoned for disabling anti-pollution systems, diesel tuner Troy Lake, owner of Elite Diesel, receives significant political support. Over 40 representatives from the state of Wyoming are advocating for a presidential pardon from Donald Trump, challenging the legitimacy of his conviction.

A Federal Conviction Under Fire

Troy Lake pleaded guilty to conspiracy to violate the Clean Air Act. The federal government accuses him of disabling emission control systems on “hundreds” of heavy-duty trucks across the country. His sentence amounts to 12 months and one day in prison, along with a $52,500 fine.

Massive Support from Wyoming Lawmakers

Chip Neiman, Speaker of the Wyoming House of Representatives, sent a letter to the U.S. Attorney General, co-signed by more than 40 of his colleagues. In it, he denounces an “unjust prosecution” by the Biden administration and a justice system “weaponized” for political purposes. The letter defends Lake’s actions, arguing that anti-pollution systems cause engine failures, fires, and exorbitant repair costs for truckers and small businesses.

A Case with Political Ramifications

Lake’s supporters point to the reversal of the EPA under the Trump era, where Administrator Lee Zeldin worked to undo emission regulations. They believe that Lake’s conviction was motivated by political considerations rather than justice, claiming that the judge intended to “make an example” of him.

A Widespread Practice in the Industry

The Lake case is not isolated. Many diesel tuners have faced heavy fines and criminal penalties for violating the Clean Air Act. Trump’s return to the White House was met with optimism by the industry, which hoped for a relaxation of regulations.

Monterey Car Week has become a true spectator sport. This unique global event brings together the rarest, fastest, and most exclusive cars on the planet, creating a concentration of wealth and automotive passion that defies comprehension.

The Historical Evolution from Pebble Beach to Monterey Car Week

It all began in 1950 with the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, an elegant lawn show featuring classic and collector cars. Over the decades, this prestigious event gave rise to multiple satellite gatherings like the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, Motorlux, and The Quail, transforming a single day into a full week dedicated to automobiles.

The Quail: The New Luxury Auto Show

Since its inception in 2003, The Quail has established itself as the must-attend auto show for luxury brands and custom manufacturers. Exclusive unveilings like the Guntherwerks Project F-26 (1000 horsepower) or the Ringbrothers’ Octavia ($2.5 million) attract an affluent international clientele.

Accessibility and Counter-Culture: The Concours d’Lemons

In response to growing exclusivity, the Concours d’Lemons has offered a free and quirky alternative for 16 years, celebrating the “worst” cars in the automotive world. This event welcomes commercial failures and original creations, democratizing access to car culture for all enthusiasts.

The Impact of Social Media on Car Culture

Monterey Car Week reflects the evolution of automotive passion in the digital age. Hundreds of young spotters armed with smartphones flood the streets, turning the experience into a continuous spectacle. As noted by Doug DeMuro, a former spotter turned automotive influencer: “The young people are great, but there are many more of them now.”

Alternative and Accessible Experiences

Facing prohibitive prices, initiatives like Camp Overcrest offer affordable solutions ($695 for the entire week) to stay near the events. This community prioritizes authentic driving experiences and human connections over ostentatious luxury.

The Diversified Future of Car Culture

Monterey Car Week perfectly illustrates the diversification of automotive passion. Between exclusive events and accessible initiatives, between tradition and modernity, car culture is not dying—it’s reinventing itself for a new generation of enthusiasts.