Author: Donald B. Smith
Donald B. Smith
Donald Smith, Automotive Reporter at automotive.fyi, holds a degree in Journalism from Michigan State University. With a keen interest in the automotive industry, Donald is dedicated to uncovering the latest breaking news and delivering it to our audience. His commitment to thorough research and engaging storytelling ensures you stay informed about the most important developments in the automotive world.
FYI: Toyota is in the final stages of developing a high-performance, track-focused version of its popular GR Corolla. This model promises enhanced aerodynamics, braking, and a potential power increase, marking it as a serious contender on any circuit. Toyota is gearing up to launch a specially developed GR Corolla with an emphasis on delivering exceptional performance on the track. This new iteration showcases significant upgrades, highlighting the brand’s commitment to thrilling driving dynamics. A Sneak Peek at Extravagant Features Images of Toyota’s latest GR Corolla in development show off a strikingly aggressive design. The car features a larger rear wing,…
FYI: A critical thruster malfunction on Boeing’s Starliner tested NASA’s crisis management skills during a docking attempt with the International Space Station. Boeing Starliner Faces Thruster Setback En Route to the ISS In a mission marked by unpredictability, NASA’s collaboration with Boeing encountered a significant bump as their Starliner spacecraft lost control due to a critical thruster failure while attempting to dock with the International Space Station (ISS). Despite NASA’s previous efforts to downplay such issues, astronauts, including Butch Wilmore, who were a part of the mission, faced an acute crisis of control, showcasing the challenges space missions often entail.…
FYI: Volkswagen says goodbye to its manual transmission GTI, concluding an era of driving enjoyment for enthusiasts everywhere. Volkswagen’s departure from the manual transmission in its iconic GTI model marks the end of an era spanning nearly half a century. The last manual GTI was quietly dispatched to a dealership in Missoula, Montana, drawing neither significant attention nor fanfare. This understated send-off speaks volumes about the changing tides in automotive design and consumer preferences. Jamie All’s Journey: A Passionate Farewell In a story that underscores dedication to the vintage driving experience, VW enthusiast Jamie All embarked on a 2,300-mile trek…
FYI: Discover the 10 Best Used Cars Under $20,000 That Offer Reliability and Value in the Face of Rising New Car Prices Recent shifts in the automotive market, driven by increasing tariffs and economic turbulence, have sparked a growing interest in the used car market. Finding a reliable vehicle that fits within a modest budget is more critical than ever. Consumer Reports has compiled a list of the top ten used cars under $20,000, providing practical and dependable transportation options for the average American consumer. These models may not turn heads with flashy designs or break speed records, but their…
FYI: As Honda gears up to roll out the new hybrid Prelude in 2026, a stunning custom build of the classic model makes headlines, doubling up on power and innovation. The Excitement Around Honda’s New Hybrid Prelude Last year, Honda confirmed that its all-new Prelude would be coming to the U.S. as a 2026 model, marking a significant shift for this iconic sports car. The upcoming vehicle will be a hybrid, which has stirred excitement amongst enthusiasts while causing a bit of unrest among purists who favor traditional gasoline engines. An Ingenious Twin-Engine Custom Build In the interim, while fans…
FYI: The Prodrive P25, a modern tribute to the iconic Subaru Impreza, sets a new standard in Resto-Mods with its precision and power. The Resto-Mod Evolution: Enter the Prodrive P25 In recent years, the world of Resto-Mods has witnessed a dramatic transformation, embracing not just the classics but also venturing into the realm of legendary Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) icons. Once the domain of high-budget builds, the Resto-Mod movement has democratized, making room for works of art inspired by beloved vehicles from the past. Among these new creations, the Prodrive P25 stands out as a testament to modern innovation melding…
FYI: Discover the enigmatic saga of the one-of-a-kind 1983 Chevrolet Corvette, saved by chance and on display for all car enthusiasts to admire. The Mystery of the 1983 Chevrolet Corvette: A Legend Born from Fortune When it comes to Chevrolet Corvettes, the year 1983 is shrouded in mystery. Officially, the 1983 Corvette should not exist. Yet, at the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, a white 1983 Corvette stands as a testament to an era that never officially came to fruition. Despite its shadows and whispers, this solitary model represents a captivating story of survival against the odds. The Quest…
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…