First Look – Audi Tazio Nuvolari Hybrid Super Car

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Audi has shown its first supercar with, ahem, a high-performance hybrid powertrain. This is technological progress of a sort with an as yet unknown response from potential customers. Deliveries of the supercar, limited to 499 units, will begin in the first half of 2027. It is the fastest and most powerful production vehicle in the brand’s history.*

“With the Audi Nuvolari,** we are accelerating technological progress,” claimed Gernot Döllner, Chairman of the Board of Management of Audi AG. “It shows what is possible when the focus is on technology, performance, and execution through teamwork – and when we achieve progress together.”

“The Audi Nuvolari accelerates from 0-62 mph in 2.6 seconds and reaches 124 mph in 6.8 seconds. These figures are enabled by a range of innovations inspired by Formula 1, including the high-performance hybrid powertrain, quattro predictive ride, active aerodynamics, and the new Audi Space Frame (ASF) with carbon exterior,” Audi said in a release. [Audi claimed numbers. See footnotes – AutoCrat.]***

High-Performance Hybrid Powertrain with Four Drive Units

  • The Audi Nuvolari is powered by a hybrid high-performance powertrain with a maximum system output of 736 kW (1001 PS). It combines a 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine delivering a claimed 588 kW (800 hp) with three axial flux electric motors, each producing 110 kW. The lithium-ion battery has a gross capacity of 7.3 kWh.
  • The combustion engine delivers a maximum torque of 730 Nm and reaches up to 10,000 rpm, a range previously reserved for motorsports.
  • Two oil-cooled axial flux electric motors at the front axle deliver up to 2150 Nm of torque. As an integral part of the quattro system, they support variable torque distribution. A third electric motor between the V8 mid-engine and the transmission completes the drive configuration.
  • The high-performance drivetrain accelerates the vehicle from 0-62 mph in 2.6 seconds and from 0-124 mph in 6.8 seconds, reaching a top speed of more than 217mph.***

“With the Audi Nuvolari, our entire team has once again demonstrated its technical expertise, innovative strength, and dedication,” said Rouven Mohr, CTO of Audi. “This is reflected not only in the vehicle’s performance and its Formula 1-inspired technologies, but also in the ability to transfer innovations quickly and precisely into a production vehicle.”

*AutoInformed on

**[Tazio Nuvolari (1892–1953) was born in Italy, and was a prominent motorcycle, Formula One and sports car racer. He convincingly beat German teams in Alfa Romeo and Ferrari race cars. He did however win with Auto Union. The Audi Group also owns the motorcycle maker Ducati. Visit the official Tazio Nuvolari Museum – AutoCrat]

***Inevitable Audi Nuvolari Footnotes

  • The vehicle shown is a near-production prototype.
  • Fuel consumption combined (weighted) in 1/100 km: 11.3 (preliminary).
  • Power consumption combined (weighted) in kWh/100 km: 7.8 (preliminary).
  • CO₂ emissions combined (weighted) in g/km: 270 (preliminary).
  • CO₂ class combined (weighted): G (preliminary).
  • Fuel consumption with discharged battery in 1/100 km: 14.7 (preliminary).
  • CO₂ emissions with discharged battery: G (preliminary).
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Trump Thumped – U.S. Air Carriers Fuel Costs Climb 26%!

Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Trump Thumped - U.S. Air Carriers Fuel Costs Climb 26%!

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The Bureau of Transportation Statistics [BTS  is part of the Department of Transportation – AutoCrat.] released today the April 2026 fuel cost and consumption numbers of U.S. Air Carriers. The airlines used 1.573 billion gallons of fuel, 2.6% less fuel than in March 2026 (1.615 billion) and 0.2% less fuel than April 2025 (1.575B).*

“Total fuel expenditure ($6.47B) of U.S. scheduled service airlines was up 26.2% from March 2026 ($5.12B) and up 78.0% from April 2025 ($3.63B). The cost per gallon of fuel in April 2026 ($4.11) was up 94 cents (29.6%) from March 2026 ($3.17) and up 181 cents (78.2%) from April 2025 ($2.31),” BTS said. All fuel consumption data is in regard to fuel paid for by the carrier.** Continue reading

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Stellantis – Solar Now Powers Two-Thirds of EU Plants

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Stellantis (NYSE: STLA. STLAM.MI) said today that it is accelerating the establishment of renewable energy generation and storage across its European manufacturing network. The company is maintaining its long-term goal of decarbonized electricity to reach carbon net-zero  operations. Photovoltaic installations are being scaled across 27 manufacturing sites in Europe.

“Energy management is a critical enabler of our decarbonization roadmap. By expanding on‑site renewable solutions — including solar, wind, geothermal and biomass – together with energy storage, we are reducing emissions, improving energy autonomy and reinforcing the competitiveness of our manufacturing footprint,” said Francesco Ciancia, Global Head of Manufacturing at Stellantis. Continue reading

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Ralph Nader Arises Again in Uber Legal Accountability Bout

Consumer advocate Ralph Nader** has released an open letter to Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi condemning the company’s efforts to limit legal accountability for crashes involving rideshare drivers and autonomous vehicles. It objects to Uber’s push for federal legislation sponsored by Representative Vince Fong (Republican – Bakersfield, CA) that would limit the company’s legal exposure for crashes involving drivers using its platform.*

“Uber is actively pursuing legal and legislative changes in California and at the federal level that would weaken its accountability for injuries and deaths tied to its platform and the autonomous vehicle systems Uber is now rapidly deploying,” Nader wrote. “These efforts are not technical adjustments to litigation rules. They represent a fundamental attempt to undermine the rights of injured people and reduce corporate responsibility at the very moment rising autonomous systems are being tested on public roads at scale.” Continue reading

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Nissan to Build Chinese Chery Vehicles in UK?

Nissan (7201T and NSANY ADR) and Chery International UK (9973.HK) said today they have signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the study of contract manufacturing for Nissan to manufacture Chery International UK passenger vehicles at its Sunderland Plant. [The struggling Japanese automaker posted a ¥533 billion yen (~$3.4 billion) loss for the Japanese fiscal year 2025, ending 31 March 2026. This was less than the ¥670.9 billion loss in the prior 2024 Japanese fiscal year.* Quarterly sales dropped ~2% to ¥3.43 trillion (~$22 billion) – AutoCrat].

“This is an important step forward for our operations. We are looking forward to working with Chery International UK in the coming months to finalize a position that is optimal for both companies,” said Massimiliano Messina, Chair of Nissan AMIEO. [Africa, Middle East, India, Europe and Oceania markets. – AutoCrat]** Continue reading

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Goodyear to Make Tires for Pegasus Lunar Terrain Vehicle

Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Goodyear to Make Tires for Pegasus Lunar Terrain Vehicle

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Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company (NASDAQ: GT) said today that it is returning to the Moon.* As part of NASA’s Artemis program, Goodyear will supply advanced lunar tires for Lunar Outpost’s Pegasus Lunar Terrain Vehicle (LTV), projected to support astronaut missions on the Moon beginning in 2028.

“Designed for operations at the lunar South Pole, Pegasus will enable astronauts to travel farther, operate longer and unlock new scientific exploration capabilities in one of the harshest environments known. Goodyear’s lunar tires are built to meet this challenge, engineered to withstand extreme temperature swings, rocky surfaces and low-gravity conditions while helping astronauts move safely and confidently across the lunar surface. Drawing on advanced science and decades of experience, these tires build on Goodyear’s work in extreme environments on Earth and in the stars,” Goodyear said. Continue reading

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Honda Hybrid-Electric Vehicles Set U.S. May Sales Record

Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Honda Hybrid-Electric Vehicles Set May Sales Record

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American Honda Motor Company (NYSE: HMC) said today that it posted a May 2026 sales increase of 9.9% at 148,903 units, with year-to-date sales reaching 623,139. Honda hybrid-electric vehicles set a new monthly sales record of 42,583 units, led by the CR-V hybrid setting a new May sales record, accounting for 54% of model sales in May, with Accord at 50% hybrid mix and Civic sales at 31% hybrid.*

“A strong lineup of affordable and fuel-efficient vehicles powered American Honda to strong May sales results,” AHM said. Continue reading

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BTS – May 2026 Fuel Prices Are Sky-High Up 32-50%

Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on BTS - May 2026 Fuel Prices Are Sky-High Up 32-50%

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The Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS) today released monthly motor fuels prices for May 2026. The news shows the dire straits motorists are in with the prices at the pump confirming the ongoing trend under the Trump mis-administration. This comes as Iran on Monday has charged the Trump administration with ceasefire violations in Lebanon, saying it will close the Strait of Hormuz and stop swapping messages with the U.S. through intermediaries.

“In May 2026, the average price for regular motor gasoline was $4.48 per gallon; up 9.2% from April 2026 and up 42.2% from May 2025. The average price for diesel no. 2 was $5.60 in May 2026, up 1.8% from April 2026, and up 60.0% from May 2025,” BTS said. Continue reading

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FuelFest – 2027 Toyota GR86 Sports Car Debuts

Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on FuelFest – 2027 Toyota GR86 Sports Car Debuts

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The 2027 Toyota GR86 (NYSE: Toyota Motor) sports car debuts on June 13th in the San Francisco Bay area at FuelFest where the performance enthusiast community gathers at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton, CA. The 2027 Toyota GR86 is expected to arrive at Toyota dealerships in summer 2026. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Pricing and specs will come later this year.*

“Toyota GR86 returns with a series of focused enhancements designed to deepen the connection between driver, car and road. Built for enthusiasts and engineered with input shaped by motorsports, the GR86 continues to deliver the kind of lightweight, rear-wheel-drive fun that has made it a favorite among sports car purists around the world,” Toyota claimed in a release. Continue reading

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Wheels Off? GM Front Wheel Bolt Recall on 24-in Wheels

General Motors, (NYSE: GM) is recalling ~2457 model year 2025–2026 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban 1500, Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles with 24-inch wheels. Incorrect bolts may have been installed on the left and right front wheel hubs, which can result in the bolts loosening or deforming over time.

“If a bolt breaks or completely loosens during vehicle operation, additional load could be placed on the three remaining bolts and lead to partial loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash. This recall only affects vehicles with 24-inch wheels that (a) received the dealer-installed accessory brake package (RPO 5JL) or (b) received a front hub replacement in service. Vehicles with other size wheels are not included,” GM said in the mandatory safety defect recall filing made public by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) this morning. Continue reading

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Airbag Failures – American Honda Recalls ~99,000 Vehicles

Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling ~99,000 Acura and Honda models because the front passenger seat weight-sensor may crack and short circuit, which can cause the airbags to deploy unintentionally during a crash. This is an expansion of a previous recall for the same safety defect.*

“In the event of a crash, the front passenger frontal and knee airbags may deploy despite the presence of an occupant (infant in child seat, child, or person smaller than AF5) for whom deployment should be suppressed, increasing the risk of injury.” Honda said in the mandatory safety defect filing made public by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) this morning.** Continue reading

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UAW Members at American Axle’s Three Rivers Plant on Strike

Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on UAW Members at American Axle’s Three Rivers Plant on Strike

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In 2008, workers at American Axle [aka Dauch Corporation – AutoCrat] took major sacrifices to save the facility from closure during the Great Recession. Many long-time workers who were making as much as $29 an hour in 2008 saw their wages slashed to $14.50. Today, eighteen years later, workers are still yet to make up all that lost ground, with wages at American Axle currently topping out at $22 an hour after a five-year progression, with inflation-adjusted wages cut in half from their pre-2008 levels.*

“After the company now known as Dauch Corporation failed to offer a fair deal after weeks of negotiations, nearly 1000 UAW Local 2093 members walked out on strike in Three Rivers, MI starting Monday 1 June at 12:01 am. Mass picket lines started at 6:00 am,” the UAW said.** Continue reading

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California Air Resources Board Tweaks Cap-and-Invest

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) adopted late last week updates to the state’s Cap-and-Invest Program, which were proposed earlier this year. Following the Legislature’s enactment last year of laws extending California’s Cap-and-Invest Program through 2045, CARB proposed the updates adopted today to balance legislative direction, affordability, jobs and near-term economic concerns while also ensuring emissions reductions and providing a long-term signal for the market. The adopted changes maintain California’s path toward meeting its 2030 and 2045 climate targets “while supporting affordability for Californians by managing costs and maintaining a clear long-term signal for clean energy investment in the state.”*

“At a moment when climate policy is under attack and global economic upheaval is creating real uncertainty, this rule-making is critically important for California,” said CARB Chair Lauren Sanchez. “California has both an opportunity and a responsibility to lead with consistency. By moving forward today, we are responding to real affordability concerns while sending a clear and unwavering signal to the world that we remain committed to long-term investment in clean energy, good jobs, and healthier communities.” Continue reading

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Trump-conomics – May 2026 U.S. Auto Sales Forecast Flat

Ken Zino of AutoInformed.com on Trump-conomics May 2026 U.S. Auto Sales Forecast Flat

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U.S. new-vehicle sales volume in May is expected to be mostly flat from year-ago levels, increasing a barely measurable 0.1%, according to the latest forecast from Cox Automotive. There are 26 selling days this May, which is the same as last month, but one less than May last year.*

“May sales appear to be holding up despite significant economic uncertainty,” Cox Automotive Senior Economist Charlie Chesbrough said. “New-vehicle buyers today are more affluent than ever, so they may not be as impacted by inflationary pressures as much as other consumers who are more acutely feeling the sharply higher fuel costs. If the economy and stock market can remain on this growing but volatile path, new-vehicle sales will likely follow. However, those are two large necessities during extremely volatile times.” Continue reading

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Milestones – Volkswagen Chattanooga at 15 Years

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Volkswagen Group of America’s Chattanooga Plant is celebrating 15 years since its grand opening in May 2011 (VOW3.DE or OTC VOW3.DE). Volkswagen Chattanooga has assembled more than 1.85 million vehicles, invested $4.3 billion in its operations, and now employs more than 4,000 team members. Today, the plant is home to the Volkswagen Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport. The models together composed about 30% of Volkswagen’s U.S. sales in 2025. The plant is also noteworthy as becoming UAW organized despite VW’s long opposition to a union in North America. Tennessee is a Right to Work state [right to work for less? – AutoCrat] since 1947.*

“Fifteen years ago, we invested in Chattanooga, in this community and workforce, and in the future of American assembly,” said Henning Habicht, Head of Volkswagen Chattanooga Operations. “We are proud to have called this community home ever since. Today, as we mark this milestone, we celebrate every Atlas that rolls off our line, every student we’ve trained, and every family whose livelihood is connected to this plant.” Continue reading

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