Gordon Murray created a sensation at Pebble Beach this year by unveiling the S1 LM, an obvious tribute to the legendary McLaren F1. As the creator of the original, it makes sense that Murray, at the helm of his own company GMA, would design a spiritual successor with the T.50, a three-seater V12 hypercar. But this raises a question: does McLaren, still active in the supercar world, perceive GMA as a threat?

McLaren Sees GMA as a Tribute, Not Competition

According to Nick Collins, the CEO of McLaren, the answer is no. When asked by The Drive during Monterey Car Week, he compares the work of Gordon Murray Automotive (GMA) to that of Singer with the Porsche 911: a celebration of the past, not an appropriation of McLaren’s heritage.

“Gordon is a great guy,” said Collins. “We spend a lot of time with him. We have a lot of affection for Gordon and what his team is accomplishing, and we love the fact that they are celebrating McLaren’s heritage. It shows how strong our heritage is.”

A Valuable Heritage but Focused on the Future

While heritage is crucial for supercar manufacturers, McLaren has a more recent road history than its rivals. The F1, its first production model in 1992, remains a milestone. Collins, however, does not feel threatened by GMA’s recent creations.

He explains: “Part of the heritage is very relevant to some people, but for other, younger consumers around the world, it doesn’t mean much. The [Lamborghini] Countach means something to those of us who had a poster of it on our bedroom wall. Maybe it means nothing to a 20-year-old in China today, right? So I’m not intimidated by it at all.”

The W1, McLaren’s New Technological Pinnacle

For Collins, McLaren’s philosophy is not to dwell on the past but to push technological boundaries. The F1 was the pinnacle of technology at its launch, just as the P1 was in its time. The next halo hypercar, the W1, will follow the same logic.

“What is the W1 going to be? It will be the pinnacle of technology at its launch. Every car has set a new standard.”

Developing a hybrid power output of 1,275 horsepower, the W1 relies on blistering acceleration and aerodynamics generating up to 1,000 kg of downforce. While its top speed is limited to 349 km/h (compared to 391 km/h for the F1), it embodies McLaren’s forward-looking vision.

A Unique Heritage That Defines the Future

Collins concludes: “Why do people still love the F1? For good reason, it was and remains the fastest naturally aspirated road car, but it redefined the landscape. The P1 did exactly the same thing, and the W1 will do the same. Our heritage is ours, undeniably ours and no one else’s. Our heritage helps define our future.”

Charging your EV in 2025 is a bit less of a hassle. Despite very real economic headwinds and the withdrawal of NEVI federal funding, the U.S. public charging network is showing signs of improvement, particularly in terms of reliability. According to the latest J.D. Power report, this progress is largely attributable to Tesla.

Progress in Reliability Despite an Overall Decline in Satisfaction

Overall user satisfaction, however, recorded a drop of 10 points. The main customer complaints in 2025 concerned the cost of charging and problems encountered during the payment process. However, one positive point stands out: users report a notable improvement in the reliability of charging stations, with fewer charging failures upon arrival at a station.

The Ecosystem Mobilizes Without Federal Funding

“In the absence of NEVI funding, the industry is seeing a concerted effort from various EV ecosystem stakeholders—particularly automakers and charging networks—to improve the public charging experience for customers,” said Brent Gruber, EV expert at J.D. Power.

He adds: “With or without federal funding, the NEVI guidelines have made their mark by establishing a guide for industry success. Although overall satisfaction scores are down this year, our data shows a clear improvement in the reliability and success of public charging.”

Tesla, Still the Benchmark, But the Competition is Catching Up

Tesla’s Supercharger network remains the absolute benchmark for the fast-charging experience in the United States, with a satisfaction score of 709. Its advantage stems less from technological superiority than from having been built for a single brand, ensuring homogeneity and simplicity.

Notably, networks operated by non-Tesla automakers (such as Mercedes-Benz, Rivian, and Ford) collectively achieved an identical score of 709. The report highlights that although their coverage is still limited, their early performance indicates that they are successfully applying lessons learned from the Tesla ecosystem.

Multi-Brand Networks Lagging Behind

Conversely, charging networks intended to be used by all EV brands are consistently the lowest rated. Blink ranks dead last, behind EVgo and Electrify America, whether for DC fast charging (DCFC) or Level 2 charging.

Lamborghini is concealing a confidential prototype, a true “automotive sculpture” that would serve as a roadmap for the brand’s future design language. This revelation comes from Mitja Borkert, Lamborghini’s head of design, during the Monterey Car Week.

The Fenomeno: A Glimpse of Lamborghini’s Future

Presented at The Quail, the Fenomeno is currently the manufacturer’s most powerful road car with its 1,065 horsepower, resulting from the combination of a naturally aspirated V12 and three electric motors. Although celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Centro Stile and produced in only 29 units, its angular and aggressive design actually draws its roots from a much more secret project.

The Mystery Sculpture: The Inspiring Origin

Borkert revealed that the Fenomeno is based on the design principles of an internal and unprecedented “sculpture,” developed after Stephan Winkelmann’s return to lead the company at the end of 2020. Unlike the Terzo Millennio concept (2017), which inspired the future Temerario (replacement for the Huracán), this physical model has never been unveiled to the public.

An Ever-Evolving Design Language

However, the designer tempered expectations by refusing to establish this prototype as a new aesthetic dogma. For him, Lamborghini’s identity lies in surprise and perpetual questioning. The design language can thus become sharper, softer, or completely unpredictable.

The Well-Kept Secret of Sant’Agata

“It is not yet shared,” Borkert stated about this concept. “It is not yet decided if and how we want to show this design sculpture. Perhaps we can show it in the future, but it is now a new starting point.”

The Importance of the Unexpected at Lamborghini

This philosophy of secrecy and constant innovation is at the heart of Lamborghini’s DNA, a tradition dating back to the era of the Miura and the Countach. While Porsche has opened its archives with its “Unseen” initiative, Lamborghini prefers to keep its cards hidden to continually surprise and push the boundaries of automotive design.

Here is the 2026 Honda Passport Trailsport from The Drive, our test vehicle for the next eight months. By next March, I’ll be driving this big orange SUV every time I leave my house. That means a lot of miles: school runs, errands, road trips, towing, camping, off-road adventures, and even trips to the groomer for my dog. Summer heat, rain, snow… I’ll face it all with this vehicle.

Why is a long-term test more relevant?

The majority of reviews, including here at The Drive, are based on short-term impressions. We rarely have the opportunity to live with a new car for more than a week. Yet, many details, small but important for the ownership experience, are often overlooked. An eight-month test will allow me to cover a wider variety of topics, such as dashboard creaks after three months or real towing capabilities.

Focus on technology and the daily experience

Today’s new cars are packed with technology. From ADAS systems to subscription apps controlling remote start or locking, I will monitor and test all of this closely. My goal is to provide you with a complete, honest, and unfiltered view of what owning a new-generation Honda Passport is like.

Introducing the 2026 Honda Passport Trailsport

All-new for 2026, the Honda Passport sports a muscular and angular silhouette, enhanced by the rugged Trailsport trim. Under the hood is a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 producing 285 horsepower, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The i-VTM4 system, although it lacks a low-range transfer case, is very effective, as I experienced with the Pilot Trailsport. Equipped with 31-inch General Grabber tires, this five-passenger family SUV is ready for adventure.

Our model is the Trailsport Elite trim, the top of the line, with a price of $54,335. Its vibrant orange hue and brown perforated leather interior certainly stand out.

Do you have specific questions? Feel free to leave a comment or send me an email at jerry@thedrive.com.

Secret Shared: The Ford Mustang GTD Gave Its Wing to the Mustang GT3. The traditional motorsport adage, “race on Sunday, sell on Monday,” has been reversed by Ford. For once, it’s the road car that inspired the race car, and not the other way around. The innovative aerodynamics of the Mustang GT3 are actually a direct legacy from the Mustang GTD, its road-legal sibling.

An Aerodynamic Shift

During the development of the Mustang GT3, the team initially considered a conventional rear wing, mounted on the trunk. But the arrival of the GTD project, a road-going version of the track monster, changed everything. Anthony Colard, Design Manager, and Greg Goodall, Chief Program Engineer, revealed that the design of the swan-neck wing, attached to the C-pillars, was born for the road car.

The Genesis of an Innovation

The idea emerged six months after the start of the GTD’s development. A designer proposed this specific mounting, a solution that was both aesthetic and ingenious. By attaching the wing to the already reinforced C-pillars, the team solved a major technical challenge: managing significant downforce loads without overstressing the trunk.

A Functional and Aesthetic Decision

Once validated on the GTD, the team quickly realized that this solution would also be perfect for the GT3. The decision was made to harmonize the two models. This choice wasn’t just stylistic; it proved to be remarkably functional. It notably paved the way for the much simpler integration of active aerodynamics.

The Advent of Active Aero

Active aerodynamics wasn’t part of the GTD’s initial program. However, the mounting on the C-pillars, a fixed structure, facilitated the routing of the cables and lines necessary for the active system. This innovation was crucial for performance, allowing the Mustang GTD to lap the Nürburgring in under 7 minutes, with a record time of 6:52.072.

As Greg Goodall pointed out, without active aero, breaking the 7-minute barrier would have been “tighter.” This unique technology transfer, from road to track, was therefore a decisive vector of performance and innovation for Ford Performance.

Mercedes-AMG GT XX has just shattered 25 world records for electric vehicles on the Nardò track in Italy. The prototype maintained an average speed of 300 km/h for nearly 7 consecutive days, stopping only to recharge its batteries, demonstrating exceptional endurance and technology.

Record-breaking performance

The most remarkable feat is the 24-hour distance record. Mercedes-AMG reclaimed its title from the Xpeng P7 by covering 5,480 km in a single day, which is 1,518 km more than the previous record. However, the ultimate goal was symbolic: to complete the equivalent of a trip around the world (40,075 km) in record time. The mission was accomplished in 7 days, 13 hours, and 24 minutes, before pushing further to 40,234 km.

An elite team of drivers for an extreme challenge

To maintain an average speed of 300 km/h, Mercedes assembled a team of 17 professional drivers, including F1 driver George Russell and rising star Doriane Pin. Each driver took turns in two-hour shifts, a duration necessary due to the intense concentration and physical effort required at such high speeds.

A technological showcase for electric powertrains

This marathon had a purpose: to test in real-world conditions the axial flux motors and direct battery cooling system developed for future Mercedes-AMG electric vehicles. With a power output of 1,360 hp, the GT XX prototype also validated new compact gearboxes and electronically controlled aerodynamic wings. This demonstration of pure endurance, following in the footsteps of the Vision EQXX’s achievements, proves that high-performance electric vehicles are already a reality.

Ford CEO Jim Farley flatly refused to follow his team’s recommendation to make Lincoln an all-electric brand. In an interview with Hagerty, he stated: “The team really pushed me to have an all-electric lineup, and I refused to do it. And I’m really glad we didn’t.” Instead, Farley outlined a future for Lincoln combining combustion engines, hybrids, and range-extender electric vehicles, also mentioning a possible “affordable electric Lincoln, with an exuberant color choice and advanced interior customization.”

Today’s Automotive News

New Models and Road Tests

As the 2025 Ford Mustang GTD begins media testing, attention is also turning to other new releases. The redesigned 2026 Subaru Outback sees its price increase significantly, rising to $36,445, a $5,030 increase over the current model.

Price Hikes and Technical Innovations

The trend of rising prices is confirmed elsewhere: the 2026 Audi lineup will see its prices increase by $800 to $4,700, and the A7 line will be reduced to the RS 7 only. Despite sluggish sales, the Tesla Cybertruck Cyberbeast, the high-end tri-motor model, underwent a $15,000 price increase. On the innovation front, a patent filing reveals how the coach door (suicide door) system of the future electric Genesis GV90 works.

Autonomous Technology

In the field of autonomous mobility, Waymo has obtained a permit to test its self-driving taxis in New York, with a trained specialist sitting behind the wheel as a precaution.

Weekend Racing Results

The weekend was rich in motorsport competition: Ryan Blaney (Team Penske Ford) won the NASCAR Cup Series Coke Zero 400. Christian Rasmussen (Ed Carpenter Racing) scored his first career victory in the IndyCar Series. Finally, Marc Márquez (Ducati Lenovo) took first place at the MotoGP Hungarian Grand Prix.

Official KTM rider Pedro Acosta and cameraman Joao miraculously escaped unharmed after a spectacular accident during the Hungarian Grand Prix. Acosta’s bike, thrown over three meters high, ended its wild ride by crashing head-on into a camera tower located a considerable distance from the track.

An Unlikely Sequence Filmed from Every Angle

Several videos of the incident, shared by the official MotoGP, show the unbelievable sequence. Pedro Acosta, victim of a simple low-speed low-side fall, slides on the track while his machine begins to tumble uncontrollably. Against all odds, upon hitting the protective barriers, the bike retains enough kinetic energy to be propelled upward, heading towards a platform housing broadcast equipment.

The Ultimate Proof of the Effectiveness of Safety Equipment

The most striking aspect of this accident is its “one-in-a-million” nature. The fall itself does not seem particularly violent, but the sequence of bounces and the final trajectory of the bike almost resemble a trick shot. Fortunately, the rider’s protective gear performed perfectly, allowing him to slide a long distance without injury.

A Happy Ending and a Fair-Play Gesture

After the accident, Pedro Acosta went to check on the cameraman’s condition and even signed a piece of the damaged equipment as a souvenir, a gesture greatly appreciated. The camera operator confirmed that he only witnessed the impact, as the bike only hit the equipment. Still, a tremendous scare in the face of a racing machine turned into an uncontrolled projectile.

This incident is a reminder of how high the safety standards are in MotoGP. Seeing Acosta moving normally after such a fall is proof of the effectiveness of the full leathers and protections. A stark contrast to a low-speed accident without proper equipment, which can have much more serious consequences. The motto is more relevant than ever: dress for the slide, not for the ride.

You can buy this 1000-horsepower supercharged V8 Godzilla for $39,000. What’s more impressive than a naturally aspirated 7.3-liter crate V8 engine producing 430 horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque at the crankshaft? Imagine a supercharged, ready-to-use version that produces more than double that. This turnkey 1000-horsepower solution currently for sale on eBay offers exactly that, for the princely sum of $39,000.

Proformance Unlimited: The Craftsman Behind the Beast

According to the listing, this is a product from Proformance Unlimited, a family-owned business based in Melbourne, Florida, that ships crate engines for just about everything. Several different versions of the Godzilla are listed on their website, but none claim 1000 horsepower straight from the factory. If you check the 850HP package description page (listed at the same price as the engine on eBay), it states that the engine will exceed 1000 horsepower “with a few upgrades and good fuel.” That’s likely what we have here.

Detailed Build and Options

This landing page includes both the details of the upgrades made to the Godzilla and a comprehensive list of components included in the build, from the Whipple supercharger and forged Ford crankshaft, down to the various sensors and wires we take for granted. Belt and pulley kits are sold separately, but if you bypass the eBay listing and go directly to their website, you can purchase the engine with various options, such as custom paint, custom exhaust components (including headers adapted for various applications), and more.

An Alternative to Official Ford Kits

This is certainly not the first 1000-horsepower Godzilla we’ve ever seen, and since Ford sells its MegaZilla and MegaZilla 2.0 engines directly to workshops and enthusiasts, countless vehicles achieve equally impressive figures—potentially after a much smaller investment. But the “all-in-one solution” aspect makes this offer particularly interesting.

This Hyundai Ioniq 6 N tearing up the track could fool you into forgetting it’s an electric vehicle. The best part of being an automotive journalist is constantly being surrounded by people who share my passion for cars, racing, and anything with wheels. The worst part is that, precisely, it can often feel like living in a bubble, with few outside opinions, you know, those from “normal” people. So I deliberately seek out conversations with people who aren’t passionate about cars and who, to be honest, don’t know much about them. The results are often both amusing and enlightening.

The Perfect Illusion of the Simulated Manual Transmission

But what does this have to do with this video of Randy Pobst propelling the Hyundai Ioniq 6 N up the Goodwood hill climb? Let me explain. As you may know, the high-end Ioniq N models are equipped with a simulated manual transmission. It responds to gear shifts, up and down, just like a combustion-powered sports car, while producing engine noises that convince you you’re not driving an electric vehicle.

A Deceptive and Realistic Sensory Experience

Watching Randy Pobst shift through gears while the Ioniq 6 N screams its artificial melody is highly entertaining. The simulated sound is punchy, and the gear changes sync perfectly with the paddle shifts. Moreover, shifting gears directly influences the sound, creating an incredibly realistic synergy.

Would You Be Fooled by This Performance?

It made me think: if you showed this video to someone unaware that the Ioniq 6 N is electric, could they be tricked into thinking it’s a conventional combustion-engine car? I believe the answer is yes. The real question is: could a person with no automotive knowledge, behind the wheel of the Ioniq 6 N with all its sound effects and simulated gear changes, believe they’re driving a gasoline-powered car? I still think the answer is yes.

There’s no right or wrong answer here, and for what it’s worth, this is a fairly light observation from me. But it’s what I thought while watching this video. What about you, what do you think?