Industry Reports

McLaren W1 First Drive: Ferocious Hypercar Transcends the Track

You know things are getting serious when McLaren rolls-out the ‘1’ suffix. The origin story is, of course, the very first road car McLaren ever built, the F1. Designed by visionary Formula 1 aerodynamicist and engineer Gordon Murray, it arrived in 1992 and rendered all other supercars obsolete. The tiny, lightweight F1 embraced carbon-fibre material technology, adopted a radical centre seat driving position with two passengers set back and either side and was powered by a 6.1-litre V12 engine from BMW that might as well have been passed down directly from the Gods. Game-changer? That doesn’t even come close to describing its impact, even if at the time sales didn’t come easy… The P1 was very different. Rather than a unique side project from the Formula 1 team, it was instead a statement piece for McLaren Automotive, a new road car division still in its infancy. It arrived in 2013 and was a wild-eyed showstopper. It traded the long-legged gait and supple suspension of the F1 for a weaponized hybrid system capable of delivering 903bhp and huge blue flames from its drainpipe exhaust. In Race mode, it lowered by 2-inches and its massive concave rear wing extended into the sky. The P1 was all about aerodynamic downforce, crazed acceleration and a snorting, angry soundtrack that mixed venomous twin-turbocharged V8 with the manic whirr of electric motors. Not so much a car as a force of nature. And now there’s this: The W1. It’s a true successor to the P1 with a similar brief and, on the face of it, it evolves rather than radically reinvents McLaren’s vision for the ultimate hypercar. This is not a criticism. How could it be when the result is this dramatic and has such staggering, other-worldly potential? The W1 has 1258bhp delivered to the rear wheels. It’s capable of 0-124 mph in 5.8-seconds, the quarter mile in 9.6-seconds at 167 mph and produces 2205lbs of downforce at 174 mph. The active aerodynamics – particularly a rear wing that extends way out beyond the rear of the car – are pure performance art and deliver massive aerodynamic efficiency. The result, aside from looking extremely cool, is that the W1 is McLaren’s fastest road car around a racetrack. Ever. Their benchmark circuit is the breath-taking Handling Track at the Nardo proving ground in southern Italy, where the W1 beats their previous benchmark, the flyweight McLaren Senna, by three seconds per lap. Or “a lifetime” as they call it in racing. Maybe two lifetimes! Core to the W1’s performance is the new ‘Aerocell’ carbon fibre tub. With integrated seats and a raised footwell to allow for inboard pushrod-operated front suspension – which in turn gives air a clean path to the huge underbody diffuser – it’s light, stiff, space efficient and has been instrumental in McLaren realising a full ground-effect concept. Just like last year’s F1 cars, which were the fastest ever made. There is also an active front wing and the aforementioned complex rear wing dubbed ‘Active Long Tail’. All of which is very admirable. But the ‘anhedral’ or gullwing doors and the fantastically shirnked-wrapped feel to the minimalist, highly-focussed interior are a pretty good side effect. The W1 feels special. Those fixed seats are perhaps a shade more upright than expected, and the driving position is less obviously racecar than, for example, the Aston Martin Valhalla or Ferrari F80. However, once you’ve adjusted the pedals (they move on a slider) and the delicate, slim-rimmed and alcantara-trimmed steering wheel, there’s an overwhelming sense of purpose. The cabin is so tightly tailored and imparts a sense of lightness and agility before you so much as start the all-new 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which makes 916bhp all on its own and revs to 9200rpm. Reach up to a roof-mounted control panel to find the starter button. Maybe this fighter plane trope is a little corny, but somehow you feel thrilled rather than manipulated. The W1 has a sense of humour as well as all that motorsport-derived sophistication. There’s a short delay, but when the engine does fire it’s instant – as the high-powered hybrid system negates the need for an old-school starter motor. A sharp flare of revs tells you that this engine is hyper-responsive and angry. On some deep level your brain and body have been sent all the signals required to prepare for something new and intense. Ahead of us, an empty Mugello racetrack, so press and hold the blue button next to the red starter to select Race mode. The centre display graphic shows the W1’s transformation in real time as it lowers by 37mm at the front and 17mm at the rear whilst simultaneously undocking all that active aero goodness. Race mode is not road legal and is geo-locked. You can show your friends and neighbours the aero dance, but it won’t allow you to select a gear to actually drive unless you’re at a circuit. Incidentally, the rocker switches either side of the display binnacle allow further options now: Toggle up the Handling control on the left for Race+ (for F1-spec super smooth tracks) or stick to Race for gnarlier ones. On the right toggle select ‘GP’ for sustained performance over a stint or ‘Sprint’ to unleash all 1258bhp for a time attack. There’s also a DRS and Boost function on the steering wheel. But I guarantee you won’t have the mental capacity to use them… Exit the pitlane, pin the throttle and W1 takes maybe a millisecond or two to gather its might (the gearing stretches to around 60mph in first, nearly 100mph in second, primarily to aid traction), but then lunges at the first turn with incredible ferocity. It instantly feels light, almost like inertia is no longer a thing. McLaren really does prize lightweight engineering, and at 3084lbs (dry) the W1 has a 278lbs advantage over the Ferrari F80. Plus, Ferrari uses figures for cars fitted with every single carbon fibre option. In reality, the gap is probably wider still. The impression of agility and stunning control continues as the track is unravelled at startling pace. The electric motor mounted to the side of the new 8-speed dual-clutch transmission is good for 342bhp and 324lb ft and it boosts any low rev lethargy the new flat-plane crank V8 might have (spoiler alert: It doesn’t appear to have any), so the W1 just feels massively, almost impossibly powerful at any revs. Even so, there’s real reward for wringing it out to 9200rpm and the power curve feels superheated but organic, too. In Race mode the steering – still hydraulically powered – has less assistance and it is noticeably heavier than other McLarens. However, that resistance is welcome as it gives you something to push against and imparts so much information about the front grip level. New Pirelli Trofeo RS tyres with a bigger front footprint than P1 or Senna really help. The front-end feels incredibly secure and the rear-axle follows with perfectly-aligned precision. The whole car feels super-stiff, completely locked into the surface and inspires confidence, but there’s an inherent agility and adjustability that means you’re quickly confident to push at its limits and really impose yourself on the chassis. It’s such a complex car but the driving experience is intuitive, and the driver feels a key contributor rather than just amazed (or terrified) observer, holding on for dear life. Every dynamic ingredient really is shockingly effective and yet has a subtlety and lightness of touch. From that delicious steering to the incredible brakes, the W1 just feels so mission-focussed, so hooked-up. Only the new 8-speed gearbox is a slightly disappointment. It’s fast and punchy, but after the scintillating energy of the Ferrari F80 ’box it feels competent rather than inspired. Other quibbles – it’s okay to quibble when the starting price is $2.1-million before tax and destination charge. Well, that new twin-turbocharged V8 sounds tightly wound and aggressive but if you have a P1 tucked in the garage you’ll miss the snorting, Darth Vader-style soundscape and all the drama that goes with it. Ferrari does this better, too. The F80 sounds deathly dull from the outside but is a riot of turbochargers, electric motors and all sorts of mechanical fury within the cockpit. Even so, the W1 is wildly entertaining on track, and the rear-drive configuration makes it more of a challenge and more satisfying than the F80 when chasing lap times or just sliding around for fun. In the Ferrari, you must second-guess what the front e-axle might do, whereas in the W1 it’s all on you. There are plenty of tools to help, including the ingenious Variable Drift Control, but somehow the W1 is more heroic. Or at least fools you into feeling more heroic – which is surely the point! On the road? Nimble, loaded with feel and sublime response. The ride is noticeably tougher than, say, a 750S but the control is ramped-up too, and with a bit more speed the whole car finds a delicious rhythm. Sport mode for the drivetrain brings some nice turbo whooshes and chirps, but the noise remains high-quality rather than extreme excitement. It is perhaps the one area the W1 feels just a little too tame. Of course, there’s nothing tame about the raw performance… which is genuinely shocking and literally hurts your neck muscles after a few hours. How McLaren has given the W1 such immense traction through just two driven wheels is beyond me. So, is it worthy of that ‘1’? I think so. Perhaps we won’t be talking about $25-million auction results for the W1 in 30 years from now, as we are for the F1. Perhaps it doesn’t quite have the amazing presence and jaw-dropping star quality of the simply gorgeous P1. But it is such an intense experience and the way it marries stunning track performance with delicate poise and entertainment on normal roads is something akin to magic. Maybe not ‘the one’ but definitely a searing, outrageous addition to McLaren’s fiercest family line. Just 399 W1’s will be built and they’re all sold. I’m not surprised at all. View All McLarens For Sale Images: McLaren Automotive

By Charles Bradley –

The Luxury Automotive Market Is On Track To Reach $215 Billion – And Redefining Affluence

Luxury automobiles have always occupied a rarefied space at the intersection of performance, craftsmanship, and emotion. But, according to a new joint study by Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and duPont REGISTRY Group, the role of the high-end automobile is expanding well beyond the vehicle itself – emerging as a central pillar in a rapidly evolving luxury lifestyle ecosystem. The findings underscore a powerful truth: despite seismic shifts in the broader automotive industry, vehicles priced at $100,000 and above remain one of the most resilient and dynamic segments in the market. Demand is steady, resale values are strong, and transaction activity remains robust. For collectors and enthusiasts alike, luxury and exotic cars are not disposable goods with a fixed lifespan – they are enduring assets, emotional objects, and social connectors that change hands frequently while retaining cultural and financial relevance. Join duPont REGISTRY Talks (video below) as BCG’s Felix Stellmaszek and dRG CEO Antoine Tessier discuss the rapid growth of the secondary market, the rise of lifestyle-driven ownership, and explain how vehicles priced above $100,000 are evolving from transportation assets into cultural capital and ecosystem anchors in a transforming global luxury landscape. Today, the U.S. luxury and exotic automobile market is estimated at $110 billion, encompassing both new and secondary market vehicles. Over the next decade, that figure is projected to grow at a compound annual rate of 5% to 7%, reaching between $180 billion and $215 billion by 2035. Yet the most compelling story is not simply one of scale, but of transformation. As the report reveals, buyer preferences are evolving across every stage of the ownership journey – from discovery and purchase to servicing and long-term engagement. Generational shifts and the rise of digital platforms are reshaping how consumers interact with luxury brands, while expectations are increasingly shaped by experiences outside the automotive world. Today’s high-net-worth buyer doesn’t view a car in isolation; they see it as part of a broader lifestyle that includes travel, hospitality, fashion, art, and exclusive access. This shift is fueling a growing wave of partnerships between automotive OEMs and leading luxury players across retail, real estate, and experiential sectors. Private driving clubs, concierge-style ownership services, invitation-only events, and immersive brand experiences are becoming just as important as horsepower figures or top-speed claims. In this new paradigm, the automobile serves as both a centerpiece and a gateway – anchoring a holistic luxury experience that extends far beyond the garage. Within the market itself, important distinctions are emerging. Vehicles priced between $100,000 and $170,000 – the core “luxury” segment – represent the largest share of sales and are expected to grow at a CAGR of 6% to 8% over the next decade. This momentum is being driven in part by premium OEMs moving upmarket, blurring traditional boundaries between luxury, ultra-luxury, and performance categories. At the very top end, ultra-luxury and hyper-luxury vehicles priced above $170,000 are projected to grow more modestly, but remain highly influential, serving as halo products that define brand identity and aspiration. Perhaps most notably, the secondary market is poised to become a critical engine of growth. Rising new-car prices – driven by increased production costs and tariff pressures – combined with a growing pool of high-quality used inventory are accelerating activity in the resale space. The study projects that used luxury and exotic vehicle sales will grow up to 1.5 times faster than new vehicle sales over the next decade, with a CAGR of 5% to 8%. Even during periods of macroeconomic uncertainty, the secondary market has proven remarkably adaptable, ensuring liquidity and continued engagement among buyers and sellers. This durability speaks to the unique nature of high-end automobiles. Unlike mass-market vehicles, they do not simply age out; they circulate, appreciate, and recontextualize themselves across generations of owners. In doing so, they reinforce their status not just as modes of transportation, but as cultural artifacts and stores of value. The BCG and duPont REGISTRY Group study draws on extensive market modeling: In-depth interviews with more than 20 dealers, collectors, and OEM executives, and a consumer survey of over 400 current, former, and prospective collectors. Together, these insights paint a clear picture of a market that is not only growing, but maturing – expanding its influence into a broader ecosystem where performance, emotion, and experience are inseparable. For the luxury automotive world, the road ahead is not defined solely by what’s under the hood. It’s shaped by how vehicles connect people, passions, and experiences. In that sense, the future of luxury cars isn’t just about driving – it’s about belonging to something bigger. CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL REPORT

By duPont REGISTRY – January 25, 2026

2025 Collector Car Insights: Record Prices, Shifting Tastes and a Market in Motion

By Andrew RiedellLast year, collector car sales were strong overall, with an especially robust showing at the top. The top 10 public sales in 2025 grossed $240 million, roughly doubling 2024’s $122m. Looking at data that tracks back about 15 years, these top 10 slot into the all-time public sales ranking between spots #2 and #66, with no adjustment for inflation. Impressively, the 2025 top five make up a third of the all-time top 15. Last year added seven entries to the all-time top 50. That puts 2025 well ahead of 2024 (three spots) and makes it the largest contributor since 2016, which holds seven spots as well, while 2015 leads with eight. Because this all-time list is not adjusted for inflation, 2025 – despite big numbers – falls short of 2015/16’s heights, at least at the top of the market. The leading sale of 2025 was a 1954 Mercedes-Benz W 196 R Stromlinienwagen. In February, chassis #00009/54 became the second-most-expensive public sale of all time at just over $53m. The car came out of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum collection alongside several other notable cars, four of which ended up as the second, eighth, 17th, and 19th-highest sales of the year. The W 196 R is part of a golden era of Mercedes-Benz racing history, and many anticipated an impressive result. The landmark offering – it had been 12 years since the previous public sale of a W 196 R – was one of the stories of 2025. RM Sotheby’s dedicated an entire auction for the occasion. Looking down the year’s top 25 sales reveals an expansion of the themes I discussed in my Monterey auction week recap (dR, Nov 2025). Some winds are shifting (rising market dominance from near-modern and modern supercars), and some things never change (Ferrari reinforcing its unrivaled position at the top). Ferrari claimed 14 of the top 25 spots last year; the next-most prolific make was McLaren with three. Those 14 Ferraris spanned from 1948 to 2025, essentially the manufacturer’s entire history, and covered every decade except the 1980s. Collector appetite for Ferraris across the board remains insatiable. Some older models have nevertheless retreated from highs established a decade ago. For an extreme example, 2025’s 12th-highest sale, a 1959 Ferrari 250 GT LWB California Spider Competizione for $9.5m, sold for roughly half the price paid for the same example in 2017. However, much of the money fading from some of the classics is simply transferring to newer Ferrari models like the F50, built 1995-1998. The F50, which grabbed the #14 spot with a $9.2m sale, straddles the overlap between the old news – Ferrari’s perennial market Lead – and the new news, the rising prominence of near-modern and modern supercars. My Monterey recap focused on ‘near-modern’ supercars, which I defined as 1980-2010, but for the full-year review, I must broaden the scope to more recent supercars as well. Much, much more recent. Nine of the top 25 sales featured supercars from 1993 or newer, a remarkable share. It was recently reported that in 2020, cars realizing seven figures or more at auction were, on average, from 1972. But by 2025, that average model year had shot to 1984. There’s no doubt that modern supercars played a major role in dragging that average up 12 years in such a short time. The top modern supercar sale (and most popular story) was the 2025 Ferrari Daytona SP3 #599+1, offered with proceeds going to charity. Charity lots tend to be fun, light affairs, where serious bidding yields to exuberant, often competitive, displays of charitable giving. Many expected the SP3 to sell over market, but few predicted the final $26m. For comparison, another SP3 – offered without a philanthropic angle – snuck on the 2025 leaderboard at spot #25, selling for $6.7m – one quarter the price. image by Edward Jones If the sale of #599+1 doesn’t count, we don’t need to look far down for the $25.3m buy of a 1994 McLaren F1. The first F1 publicly offered in more than four years, the result set a new model record and further established the F1 as the ‘250 GTO’ of modern supercars. Backed by landmark performance, a 24 Hours of Le Mans overall win, rarity, and a number of unique characteristics, the F1 is a legend that has cemented mythical status for its creator, Gordon Murray. Murray appears again in our final highlight of 2025. His own, nascent firm, Gordon Murray Automotive, announced a run of five S1 LM supercars – essentially reboots of the McLaren F1 LM, a rarer, higher-performance version of the standard F1. The first example, or rather its build slot, was auctioned in November. Despite the model not existing yet and GMA having delivered its first car ever only in 2024, the S1 LM sold for $20.6m and set a record for the most expensive (non-charity) new car ever sold. image by Khris Bharath On one level, this result was another chapter in the automotive coronation of Gordon Murray – such is his reputation that a build slot for one of his creations commands a $20m commitment. But taking a look at the bigger picture, this sale spoke loudly about the modern supercar market as a whole. If you needed further evidence that enormous collector capital is looking at this segment of cars, this was it. *Please note that the information provided is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research or consult with a financial professional before making investment decisions. View All Exotics & Supercars For Sale Images: Mercedes-Benz, Ferrari, RM Sotheby's

A man in a suit stands with arms crossed between a blue car, a red SUV, and a yellow sports car—reminiscent of Lamborghini’s strong Q3 results and record margins in the hybrid era—parked outside a modern building.

By Khris Bharath – November 03, 2025

Lamborghini Posts Strong Q3 Results: Defies Global Headwi...

Automobili Lamborghini just wrapped up its third quarter of 2025, and despite global headwinds, the numbers show a company firing on all cylinders. Building on Lamborghini’s Q1 and record H1 results, the first nine months of 2025 saw the Sant’Agata-based marque deliver 8,140 cars worldwide, generating roughly €2.41 billion ($2.77 billion) in revenue and €592 million ($681.3 million) in operating profit, with profitability at 24.6%. Those figures are slightly down from last year, yet Lamborghini claims it is among the most profitable performance brands in the world. Europe, the Middle East, and Africa remain the strongest regions with 3,683 deliveries, while the Americas follow with 2,541 units. Asia-Pacific accounted for 1,916, showing balanced performance across markets. Even with tariff challenges in the U.S. “The results achieved this quarter confirm the strength of our industrial model and the consistency of our strategy, despite the unfavorable exchange rate trends and the impact of US tariff policies on our largest market. Our focus remains on consolidating our now fully hybrid range, while continuing to invest in innovation, quality, and brand value.” - CEO Stephan Winkelmann. CFO Paolo Poma also highlighted the Italian supercar maker’s robust order book, noting that global demand continues to exceed supply. The new Temerario, Lamborghini’s twin-turbo V8 hybrid supercar, has an order bank stretching roughly a year out. It will enter the market before the end of 2025, marking the final piece in Lamborghini’s electrified lineup puzzle. We had the chance to test the Huracán successor at Estoril in August. By Charles Bradley Lamborghini continues to strengthen its presence through brand experiences and product launches that cater directly to enthusiasts and collectors. The Lamborghini Fenomeno, which debuted at Monterey Car Week, showcased the V12 hybrid hypercar’s racing-inspired proportions and attention to detail. It highlighted how Centro Stile, Lamborghini’s in-house design studio, which coincidentally also turned 20 this year, continues to blend art and engineering. Collectors have taken notice, and the car’s entire 29-unit production run is already spoken for. With a solid financial foundation, a one-year order backlog, and a fully hybridized range made up to flagship V12 Revuelto, the Urus SE, and the Temerario, Lamborghini enters Q4 in a commanding position. While competitors chase volume, Lamborghini’s approach remains clear: fewer cars, higher margins, and stronger brand equity. View All Lamborghinis For Sale

A luxury SUV is shown driving on a road; below, the interior view highlights a digital dashboard, large touchscreen displays, and hints at GM’s Next Big Leap: Conversational AI in 2026 for a truly futuristic driving experience.

By Khris Bharath – October 23, 2025

GM’s Next Big Leap: Conversational AI in 2026, Eyes-Off D...

General Motors is taking a decisive step toward what it calls the next phase of intelligent mobility. At its “GM Forward” event in New York, CEO Mary Barra outlined how that shift is unfolding across autonomy, software, and energy systems. The most attention-grabbing announcement was “eyes-off” driving, coming in 2028 with the Cadillac Escalade IQ. This marks GM’s move towards what the industry considers Level 3+ autonomy, where the vehicle can handle all aspects of driving in certain conditions without constant human oversight. Unlike Tesla’s camera-only approach for its self-driving system, GM's system appears to feature a combination of high-definition LiDAR, radar, cameras, and sensors layered with real-time mapping data. The turquoise light is an indicator that the vehicle is operating on a hands-off basis GM already has 600,000 miles of mapped roads in North America, and its Super Cruise system has logged 700 million hands-free miles with no crash attributed to the tech. Backed by five million fully driverless miles from Cruise, GM’s autonomous subsidiary, the company says it’s building one of the safest, most validated systems on the road. That safety-first philosophy contrasts sharply with Silicon Valley’s “move fast” mindset. GM’s method is slower but data-driven, blending a decade of on-road experience with continuous validation. The upcoming Escalade IQ will serve as the proving ground for this next-generation autonomy. As for artificial intelligence tech, starting in 2026, GM will also roll out conversational AI across its lineup using Google’s Gemini model. You’ll be able to talk to your car, naturally ask about maintenance alerts, route changes, or even nearby restaurants. Later, GM plans to replace Gemini with its own in-house AI connected via the company's OnStar service, all trained on your vehicle’s behavior and preferences through OnStar’s cloud infrastructure. Underpinning all this will be a centralized computing platform, debuting in 2028. Instead of dozens of separate control modules, one high-speed core will handle propulsion, steering, infotainment, and safety. GM says it’ll offer 10 times more over-the-air update capacity, 1,000 times the bandwidth, and up to 35 times more AI performance than today’s systems. As for manufacturing, GM’s Autonomous Robotics Center in Michigan and its lab in California are developing “cobots” collaborative robots that adapt to human workers using real-time telemetry and quality data. With these announcements, General Motors is no longer positioning itself as a traditional automaker. It’s transforming into a full-fledged technology company, merging hardware, AI, and data into a unified mobility ecosystem, turning one of America’s oldest carmakers into a next-generation technology company. View All Cadillacs For Sale Images: General Motors

By Khris Bharath – October 15, 2025

Stellantis Commits $13 Billion to U.S. Comeback, Its Bigg...

Following the controversial exit of Carlos Tavares in December last year, Stellantis appointed Jeep’s growth architect, Antonio Filosa, as its new CEO in May. Stellantis is one of the world’s leading Automotive conglomerates, formed in 2021 after the merger of FCA and PSA, with 14 brands under its umbrella. He was tasked with steering the fourth-largest automaker in the world towards profitability following turbulent times for several key brands within the portfolio. His priority was to stabilize the North American business by moving some production back to the U.S., introducing competitive pricing strategies, and offering a fresh vehicle lineup across the brand’s core markets. Filosa’s arrival was quickly followed by the return of another key figure in the Stellantis hierarchy, Tim Kuniskis. A key figure responsible for the success of the modern era of the Dodge brand, Kuniskis was brought back to lead the conglomerate’s North American comeback as Head of American Brands and North American Marketing and Retail Strategy, while also taking charge as CEO of the Truck brand. He now oversees Chrysler, Jeep, and Dodge, working to tighten marketing strategies and rebuild dealer confidence. A major announcement he made was the return of RAM Trucks to NASCAR. Now, in what is the largest single investment in the company’s 100-year history, a $13 billion investment marks the first major step in that broader recovery plan. Stellantis will expand U.S. production by 50 percent and create more than 5,000 jobs across the states of Illinois, Ohio, Michigan, and Indiana. This move signals a full-throttle return to growth for Stellantis in what is one of its most critical markets globally. “Accelerating growth in the U.S. has been a top priority since my first day. Success in America is not just good for Stellantis in the U.S., it makes us stronger everywhere,” - Antonio Filosa, CEO and North America COO, Stellantis. In Illinois, Stellantis will reopen the Belvidere Assembly Plant to produce two new Jeep models, the mid-size Cherokee and compact Compass SUVs, backed by a $600 million infusion and around 3,300 new jobs. It’s a strategic move that brings production back to the Midwest, reaffirming Jeep’s American manufacturing roots. Over in Toledo, Ohio, Stellantis will assemble an all-new midsize truck previously destined for Belvidere alongside the Wrangler and Gladiator pickup. The $400 million investment and 900 added jobs show a clear intent to compete directly with segment leaders like the popular Toyota Tacoma and Ford Ranger. The state of Michigan will see Warren Truck Assembly retooled to build a large SUV in both internal-combustion and range-extended EV forms in 2028, with nearly $100 million in upgrades and 900 new positions. Meanwhile, Detroit’s Jefferson complex will be readied for the next-generation Dodge Durango in 2029 with an additional $130 million investment. Finally, Indiana’s Kokomo facilities will produce the new GMET4 EVO four-cylinder engine starting in 2026, supported by $100 million in funding and 100 new jobs. This new powertrain is part of Stellantis’ broader plan to balance performance and efficiency across its lineup. In total, Stellantis’ U.S. footprint now spans 34 facilities across 14 states, employing over 48,000 people, setting the stage for five new models, 19 product updates, and a projected 50 percent production jump by 2029. This strategic investment is the first major step on the path to recovery and better positions Stellantis to compete with the likes of Ford and GM, which together represent the Detroit Big Three. View All Supercars and Exotic Cars for Sale Image Source: Stellantis

Front view of a light pink Volvo electric SUV parked and charging at a station next to a modern building, reflecting Volvo’s global plug-in hybrid sales crossing one million.

By Khris Bharath – October 02, 2025

Volvo’s Global Plug-In Hybrid Sales Cross One Million

Volvo just passed a major milestone that speaks volumes about where the brand and the wider industry are heading. In September, the Swedish automaker delivered its one millionth plug-in hybrid, highlighting how Volvo is using hybrids as a transitional step while it continues to push toward becoming a fully electric brand. Back in 2019, the brand sold just under 46,000 PHEVs, which steadily grew to more than 177,000 by 2024, largely driven by demand for two models: the PHEV variants of XC60 and XC90, in markets like the U.S., Sweden, and China. Coming out of the pandemic, as the sales of EVs slowed, demand for hybrids grew. The XC60 was not only Europe’s top-selling plug-in hybrid last year, it also led the premium PHEV segment worldwide for three years straight, and that streak continues into 2025, accounting for 23 percent of Volvo’s global sales in the first half of the year. Today, Volvo claims that it has the highest plug-in hybrid share of total sales among legacy luxury automakers. That’s partly because Volvo went all-in early. It's first PHEV hit the market back in 2012, which was the diesel-powered V60 estate. For years, it was the only brand to offer a plug-in option across every model line. Today, Volvo still sells PHEV versions of five different models alongside six fully electric vehicles. This mixed approach is what has given them leverage over the competition, especially in markets where charging infrastructure is still inconsistent. Volvo’s newest entry is the XC70 plug-in, the automaker’s first long-range hybrid SUV. Under China’s CLTC cycle, it’s rated for more than 124 miles of pure electric range. Expect that figure to be likely lower under EPA standards, but it still represents a meaningful leap from earlier plug-in hybrids, which often offered ranges closer to anywhere between 25 to 40 miles. If you live in the suburbs, that kind of range is significant and could mean doing most daily errands without tapping into burning gas. Volvo’s own data backs that up, claiming its PHEV owners already drive roughly half their time on electric power alone, especially in urban areas, suggesting that the hybrids are being used as intended: i.e,. Short, local trips on electric power, and longer stints with the safety net of a gas engine. “Volvo Cars is committed to a fully electric future, and we will get there at a pace that suits our customers. Our plug-in hybrid cars are a crucial bridge towards that future for those customers who are not yet ready to go fully electric.” - Erik Severinson, Volvo’s chief commercial officer. The bridge metaphor might feel like a talking point here, but it makes practical sense. Charging networks in the U.S. are expanding with the NACS standard, as well as Tesla opening up its Supercharger network to more automakers, which is helping, but access and reliability can be spotty, especially in rural areas. Also, speaking of the United States, Volvo is doubling down on its South Carolina plant, where it will also soon begin manufacturing the XC60, the brand’s global best seller with more than 2.7 million units sold. That figure is staggering, considering it even outsold the brand’s iconic 240 wagon, a car that defined Volvo for decades. The Ridgeville site already manufactures the all-electric EX90 and the Polestar 3. Local production will only help meet domestic demand quickly, but it will also position Volvo to qualify for incentives tied to domestic manufacturing and help Volvo stay competitive in the fiercely contested luxury crossover and SUV segments. This is in the recent light of looming uncertainty around U.S. tariffs. Looking ahead, Volvo is also planning a next-generation hybrid specifically tailored for America. The million-unit hybrid milestone highlights how Volvo played it safe by maintaining a diversified portfolio of powertrains on its path to electrification, as both infrastructure catches up and EV tech continues to evolve. View All Volvo Cars For Sale Images: Volvo

Six luxury sports cars, in blue, silver, red, and white, are parked in two parallel rows on a dark tiled driveway—an impressive lineup sure to captivate luxury car buyers and enthusiasts alike.

By duPont REGISTRY – September 18, 2025

Boston Consulting Group and duPont REGISTRY Group Launch ...

September 16, 2025 – Miami, FL – duPont REGISTRY Group (DRG), a trailblazer in the luxury and exotic automotive ecosystem, has announced the launch of a market study in collaboration with Boston Consulting Group (BCG). The foundation of the study includes a survey fielded by Nielsen Sports with participants ranging from high-net-worth collectors to aspiring luxury buyers. The study will also encompass interviews with leading industry participants and detailed market size modeling. This wide-ranging study will deliver a comprehensive market analysis on the purchasing habits, ownership experiences, and lifestyle preferences of U.S.-based luxury, classic and exotic car buyers. Targeted to adults aged 18 and older residing in the United States, the survey will gather insights from current owners and prospective buyers (intenders) of vehicles valued at over $100,000. By combining duPont REGISTRY’s extensive access to affluent automotive enthusiasts with BCG’s strategic market expertise and Nielsen Sports’ advanced data capabilities, the resulting report will provide an authoritative perspective on this exclusive sector. The survey is organized into distinct sections: • Ensures participants are qualified luxury vehicle owners or intenders. • Establishes whether respondents are current owners or future buyers. • Explores motivations, decision factors, and brand preferences for new, pre-owned, and restomod vehicles. • Evaluates dealership interactions, service satisfaction, and aftersales engagement. • Examines purchasing methods, insurance considerations, and alternative acquisition models. • Captures participation in brand events, experiential activations, and engagement frequency. • Maps research patterns, planning cycles, and brand decision pathways. • Concludes with demographic insights for comprehensive audience segmentation. “The luxury automotive ecosystem is evolving rapidly, shaped by shifting consumer preferences, new ownership models, and associated services, solutions and experiences. This collaboration will give the industry a clear view into the minds of high-net-worth buyers – and the associated opportunities,” said Felix Stellmaszek, a BCG managing director and senior partner, and global leader of the firm’s Automotive practice. “Understanding the luxury consumer requires more than just data—it demands deep insight into their aspirations, expectations, and lifestyle choices. This collaboration will empower brands to not only meet but anticipate the desires of this highly influential audience,” said Sandeep Chugani, a BCG managing director and senior partner, and member of the board of duPont REGISTRY Group. “This initiative represents a first-of-its-kind collaboration that will define the ever-growing luxury automotive marketplace in ways never before quantified,” said Antoine Tessier, CEO of duPont REGISTRY Group. “The intelligence gathered will be unparalleled and invaluable for brands, dealers, and marketers seeking to connect with the most discerning automotive consumers in the United States.” The final report, available later this year, will offer actionable intelligence for manufacturers, dealerships, event organizers, and luxury lifestyle brands aiming to better understand and engage with this influential audience. About duPont REGISTRY Group The heart of the Driven Lifestyle division, the duPont REGISTRY Group is the world’s leading luxury ecosystem, encapsulating the culture, community and commerce of the high-end automotive lifestyle. Built by some of the biggest names in the luxury automotive space, duPont REGISTRY Group represents a vibrant community of members worldwide nurtured over four decades. Its portfolio includes duPont Registry, Canossa Events, Cavallino, Supercar Owners Circle, Petrolicious, Retromobile USA, FerrariChat and Sotheby’s Motorsport. About Boston Consulting Group Boston Consulting Group partners with leaders in business and society to tackle their most important challenges and capture their greatest opportunities. BCG was the pioneer in business strategy when it was founded in 1963. Today, we work closely with clients to embrace a transformational approach aimed at benefiting all stakeholders – empowering organizations to grow, build sustainable competitive advantage, and drive positive societal impact. Our diverse, global teams bring deep industry and functional expertise and a range of perspectives that question the status quo and spark change. BCG delivers solutions through leading-edge management consulting, technology and design, and corporate and digital ventures. We work in a uniquely collaborative model across the firm and throughout all levels of the client organization, fueled by the goal of helping our clients thrive and enabling them to make the world a better place.

A 2030 Mercedes-Benz car with a transparent hood effect reveals the powerful V12 engine underneath.

By Khris Bharath – September 13, 2025

V12 Lives On: Mercedes-Benz Will Retain the Flagship 12-C...

It appears that Mercedes is not letting go of its flagship twelve-cylinder engine without a fight. At the IAA Mobility 2025 show in Munich earlier this month, the German automaker made it official: the V12 will remain in production until at least 2030. That announcement comes as most luxury automakers, including Mercedes themseves, continue to scale back combustion engines to meet tougher emissions rules. However, Mercedes has decided that one of the remaining few V12s worldwide will still wear a three-pointed star, as confirmed in a recent interview with Autocar U.K. If we look back at Mercedes’s history with the V12 and sedans in particular, it stretches back over three decades to 1991, when the W140 S-Class introduced the 6.0-liter M120. Later families such as the (M275), its (M285) offshoot, and the updated (M279) powered models like the Maybach 57 and 62, the AMG S 65, CL 65 coupe, SL 65 Black, and G 65, as well as later Maybach S-Class flagships. For decades, then, the signature V12 has been the pinnacle of the lineup, a clear marker of ultimate luxury and prestige. Today, the only Mercedes model with a V12 is the Maybach S 680. Under the hood sits a 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged V12 with 621 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque, paired with 4MATIC all-wheel drive. In the U.S., it carries a sticker price of $244,400, making it one of the most attainable new twelve-cylinder sedans on sale. Compare that to a Rolls-Royce Ghost, which starts at roughly $350,000, or a Bentley Flying Spur Speed W12, which pushes closer to $300,000 before options and at that level, the Maybach’s price almost looks restrained, even though it still delivers the refinement and exclusivity that you expect from a V12 flagship. Now, fully optioned versions can approach $290,000, but that remains well below the multimillion-dollar hypercars that also carry twelve cylinders. Mercedes-AMG, of course famously also supplies the V12 engine to Pagani, keeping the tooling alive for boutique supercar makers. Better still, in the Pagani, that V12 pairs with a manual transmission, an extremely niche format intself. But the real challenge about the future of the 12-cylinder powerplant has to do with regulation. Europe’s Euro 7 rules take effect in late 2026, and Mercedes has yet to say how the V12 will comply. The European Commission has advanced its review of the 2035 zero-emissions target to the end of 2025, which will decide whether Europe sticks to its plan of ending sales of internal combustion cars. Presently, EV adoption across the EU remains lower than expected. Proposals under discussion include a new category for small, affordable EVs and recognition of carbon-neutral fuels like e-fuel and biofuels, which could allow combustion engines, including hybrids and plug-ins, to remain part of the mix. For a company like Mercedes-Benz, that regulatory uncertainty could determine whether its V12 survives in Europe beyond 2030 or becomes restricted to regions like U.S., Middle East, and China. While Markus Schäfer, CTO, did tell Autocar that the engine will remain in production, he didn’t share specifics on displacement changes, hybrid integration, or emissions fixes. So the most likely solution is some form of electrification, either a mild-hybrid or plug-in system, to extend the lifespan of the engine while improving efficiency. Bugatti, for instance retired the Piëch-era W16 that did duty in the Veyron and Chiron, and has found a way to keep a sixteen-cylinder alive in the new V16-Tourbillon thanks to electrification and Rimac’s engineering input. Mercedes’s approach to the V12 could be similar: find a way to modernize without losing the aura of a powerplant that has defined the top tier of luxury for decades. View All Mercedes-Benz For Sale Images: Mercedes-Benz

A close-up of a black and silver snake emblem on the side of a blue vehicle, celebrating the return of power as The HEMI Is Back: First 2026 Ram 1500 V8s Roll Off the Line.

By Khris Bharath – August 30, 2025

The HEMI Is Back: First 2026 Ram 1500 V8s Roll Off the Line

The HEMI V8 is finally back in the Ram 1500, and that headline alone should be enough to light up forums and dealer phone lines. Just three months after announcing the return of the 5.7-liter V8, the first 2026 models are already shipping from the Sterling Heights facility in Michigan to dealerships across the nation. For Ram loyalists and Mopar fans, it marks the end of a short-lived phase without a traditional eight-cylinder option. As for Stellantis, it is part of a bigger plan to reconnect with American truck buyers. When Ram announced the HEMI’s comeback in June, customers responded immediately. More than 10,000 orders rolled in within the first 24 hours, proving there’s still strong demand for V8s in a market increasingly moving toward hybrids and EVs. The HEMI will be available in trims ranging from the entry-level Tradesman to the premium Limited and Longhorn, with the Rebel joining later in the model year. Each truck also now features a new fender badge, called the “Symbol of Protest,” designed to emphasize the American truck brand’s decision to preserve eight-cylinder gasoline power. The 5.7-liter HEMI has long been known as a dependable workhorse, delivering 395 horsepower and 410 pound-feet of torque. It now comes paired with Ram’s eTorque mild-hybrid system, which employs a belt-driven motor generator and a 48-volt battery pack to improve fuel efficiency, add low-end torque, and smooth out stop-start operation. It is not a full hybrid and only a mild hybrid; the system provides up to 130 pound-feet of supplemental torque during acceleration and stop-and-go traffic. In the real world, that should make the V8 feel more responsive and slightly more efficient than the old setup, particularly when it comes to towing or hauling. If you’re concerned about fuel costs, eTorque makes the HEMI more livable without dulling its character. Now Ram is not alone in selling a V8 full-size pickup truck. Ford still offers the good ol’ 5.0-liter Coyote in the F-150, and GM has its 6.2-liter option for the Silverado. The difference is strategy, as Ford is leaning hard into the Lightning EV and hybrid EcoBoosts, while GM is pushing electrification but facing slow EV rollouts. Ram, meanwhile, is carving a middle path when it comes to electrification, all while keeping the V8 alive. This approach carries risk, especially with tightening emissions rules, but it may pay off in market share if potential buyers reward the Ram brand for preserving choice. But this HEMI comeback goes far beyond the pavement, because in 2026, the Ram will return to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series after a 13-year absence. Branded under the “Ramdemption” campaign, the comeback ties racing directly to production trucks. The Ram 1500 NASCAR Concept unveiled earlier this year packs a V8 that can rev to 9,000 rpm. Stellantis has 25 product launches planned over the next 18 months, and NASCAR visibility should give Ram an American performance stage alongside rivals Ford and Chevy. Much of this strategy comes down to leadership. Recently appointed Stellantis Global CEO Antonio Filosa roped in Tim Kuniskis, the architect of Dodge’s Hellcat and Demon era, to continue running Ram while also overseeing Stellantis’ North American marketing and retail strategy. Dealers, who had been frustrated with Stellantis’ previous leadership and bloated inventories across most of its American brands, see Kuniskis as someone who understands both the product and the buyer. Under his watch, Stellantis has also revived Street & Racing Technology( SRT), recommitted to motorsports, and delivered the HEMI’s comeback in record time. Whether this dual push, production V8s with modern hybrid assist and a NASCAR comeback, can restore Stellantis’ footing in North America is something that needs to be seen. Watch this space. View All Ram 1500s For Sale Source: Stellantis

A green electric SUV with impressive autonomy drives on a highway next to the ocean under a partly cloudy sky.

By Khris Bharath – August 06, 2025

Lucid Posts Strong Q2 2025 Results, Bets Big on Autonomy ...

Lucid Motors is shifting into high gear. Fresh off the launch of its Gravity SUV, a growing global footprint, and a Guinness World Record to its name, the California-based EV maker continues to defy expectations and has posted another quarter of growth, momentum, and big bets on the future. In Q2 2025, Lucid produced 3,863 vehicles and delivered 3,309 to customers. This marks its sixth consecutive quarter of record deliveries and a 38.2 percent jump from the same period last year. It follows a strong Q1, where Lucid delivered 3,109 vehicles and notched a 58.1 percent year-over-year gain. Cumulatively, Lucid delivered over 10,000 vehicles last year in 2024, cementing its reputation as a rising force in the niche luxury EV space. “Despite economic headwinds, we’re staying focused on cost discipline, brand momentum, and a strong product launch. That’s how we keep moving forward.” - CFO Taoufiq Boussaid. Revenue for the second quarter rose to $259.4 million. Though the company reported a GAAP net loss of 28 cents per share, or 24 cents non-GAAP, Lucid Motors still ended the quarter with approximately $4.86 billion in liquidity. It has also revised its 2025 production outlook to between 18,000 and 20,000 vehicles, down slightly from the original 20,000-unit target. Still, leadership remains bullish. The robotaxi program, in partnership with Uber, is set to deploy at least 20,000 Lucid Gravity vehicles equipped with Nuro Driver, a Level 4 autonomous system. It will position Lucid as a serious player in the driverless mobility / ride-hailing space, currently occupied by the likes of Waymo and Cruise. “We’re just getting started. Our robotaxi partnership with Uber and Nuro is exactly the kind of strategic expansion we envisioned. We expect to maintain our delivery momentum as Gravity ramps up in the second half of the year.” Interim CEO Marc Winterhoff. On the charging front, the company has opened up access to more than 23,500 Tesla Superchargers across North America via a Lucid-approved NACS adapter. This move alone will be a game-changer for potential buyers, who can count on a reliable charging network. Lucid even shattered a Guinness World Record with the Gravity, achieving an impressive 749 miles on a single charge. In our recent first drive review of the 2026 Lucid Gravity Grand Touring, we were impressed by the technology, performance, and packaging. The all-electric luxury-crossover SUV space only has a few models, but what sets the Gravity apart is that it is sleek, packed with tech crossover that blends performance, practicality, and futuristic design. Additionally, Lucid is also advancing its in-house DreamDrive Pro system, which will now feature Hands-Free Drive Assist and Lane Change Assist. The Gravity is available in four trims and starts at $78,900. For comparison, the base Lucid Air sedan has a starting MSRP of $69,900. Lucid continues to expand its network across the United States, and to cap it off, Lucid tapped Oscar-nominated actor Timothée Chalamet as its first global brand ambassador, launching the company’s largest brand awareness campaign yet. View All Lucids For Sale Source: Lucid Motors

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