Author: Donald B. Smith

FYI: Tesla stands strong against new tariffs, while traditional automakers struggle to cope with cost increases. Tesla Sidesteps Tariff Turmoil Amidst Industry Challenges Industry insiders have pointed to General Motors, Ford, and Stellantis as the primary victims of the latest tariff changes, while Tesla, despite CEO Elon Musk’s public complaints, has managed to sidestep the brunt of these financial blows. Unlike its rivals who are dealing with substantial disruptions, Tesla’s U.S.-based manufacturing operations have shielded it from the heaviest impacts of policy changes. Tesla: A Leader in the Electric Revolution Founded on July 1, 2003, by Martin Eberhard and Marc…

— FYI: A whirlwind tour of Japan’s automotive culture offers enthusiasts an unparalleled driving experience behind the wheels of legendary JDM cars, blending rich heritage with thrilling drives. — Growing Tourism and Automotive Culture in Post-Pandemic Japan During my extensive time in Japan, the recent surge in tourism following the pandemic reopening has been unprecedented. With global restrictions easing, Japan has become a hotspot for travelers eager to experience its culture, cuisine, and for car enthusiasts, the vibrant automotive scene it offers. The rise in visitors is reflected in the increased interest in iconic car parks like Daikoku and Sea…

FYI: The 2025 RAM 2500 Power Wagon and 2500 Rebel HD have arrived, ready to take on the evolving off-road competition with enhanced features while retaining their unique off-road capabilities. The off-road truck segment is witnessing significant competition, with Chevrolet and Ford introducing their latest models. However, RAM remains steadfast in its position, unveiling the refreshed 2025 RAM 2500 Power Wagon and 2500 Rebel HD. These trucks come equipped with notable design and technological updates, asserting their place in the market. Design and Engine Upgrade Highlights While the RAM 2500 Power Wagon remains unmatched in off-road hardware, the 2500 Rebel…

FYI: A drastic decrease in air travel between Canada and the U.S. heralds significant impact on tourism industries and local economies. Air Travel Between Canada and the U.S.: A Flight Path in Trouble Recent figures indicate a dramatic decline in air travel between Canada and the United States, raising alarms for the tourism industry and local economies reliant on international visitors. OAG, a leading aviation analytics firm, has reported a startling 71-76% drop in booked U.S. flights from Canada from March 2024 to March 2025. The months hit hardest by this decline are July and August, typically the peak of…

FYI: Two horsepower-heavy titans clash in OG Battles as a ferociously modified Nissan R35 GT-R squares off against a tuned Audi RS3, each bringing their road-ripping credentials to an exhilarating showdown. — In an adrenaline-fueled episode of OG Battles, YouTuber Nams pits his two prized beasts against each other: a roaring Nissan R35 GT-R and a fierce Audi RS3. Both cars, expertly crafted by Boost Performance, pack a punch on the strip, yet showcase distinct personalities. The Nissan, giving a nod to its heritage, churns out an impressive 750 horsepower from its 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6. However, when toggled to “kill…

FYI: Car owners across the globe are sharing their worst recall experiences, highlighting numerous cases of unresolved mechanical issues and challenging customer service interactions. When Repairs Make Matters Worse In the world of automotive recalls, sometimes the fixes leave drivers in a worse state. One such story dates back to 1991 with a 1986 Pontiac Fiero. The car had been recalled for an exhaust manifold issue, but after leaving the shop, its owner found the vehicle’s windows and gauges behaving erratically. Investigation revealed a shoddy wire job that left an electric tape ball under the hood, making the car nearly…

FYI: In the high-stakes world of drag racing, the famed Toyota Supra MKIV meets its match against the nimble Aprilia RS250, showcasing a thrilling blend of speed and engineering prowess. When it comes to iconic vehicles that have left their mark on popular culture, few have had an impact like the Toyota Supra MKIV. Renowned for its customization potential and quarter-mile performance, this legendary car is a top contender in the drag racing scene. But how does it measure up against a two-wheeled adversary, the 1999 Aprilia RS250? This clash pits Japanese engineering against Italian craftsmanship in a battle of…

FYI: The anticipated auto tariffs originally set by President Trump for April 2nd are unlikely to be enforced as planned, providing temporary relief for the global auto industry. The press was abuzz with the expectation that President Trump’s proposed tariffs on the automotive sector were to take effect on April 2nd. However, it now appears these tariffs may not materialize as initially intended. This news has undoubtedly provided a sense of relief to automakers, suppliers, and consumers alike, although it might only be a brief respite. Trump’s strategy, aimed at instituting new sector-specific obligations affecting automobiles, pharmaceuticals, and semiconductor products,…

FYI: Nemtec Racing’s Toyota Grolella stands as a testament to automotive ambition, demonstrating remarkable power and resilience in overcoming challenges. Revving Up with Toyota Grolella Nemtec Racing’s Toyota Grolella has emerged as an icon in the world of automotive performance, reaching the pinnacle as one of the most powerful Gr Corollas on the planet. The transformation into a high-powered machine is a dream realized for many car enthusiasts, albeit a path fraught with financial and technical hurdles. Toyota’s Legacy in Motion Toyota continues to dominate the automotive landscape as the largest automaker globally. The Japanese giant, founded by Kichiriro Toyoda…

FYI: The Bugatti Tourbillon promises groundbreaking performance with its 1,800 horsepower hybrid engine and cutting-edge aerodynamics, redefining speed and timeless design in the automotive world. Bugatti Tourbillon: A New Era of Speed and Design The Bugatti Tourbillon is set to revolutionize the luxury sports car world with its exceptional 1,800 horsepower plug-in hybrid powertrain. Anchored by an innovative high-repetition V-16 engine, this powerhouse demands advanced aerodynamics to harness its immense capabilities effectively. Aerodynamic Excellence for Unmatched Speed Aiming to eclipse the aerodynamic prowess of the iconic Bugatti Chiron, Chief Engineer Paul Burnham revealed that a significant reduction in aerodynamic drag…