IndyCar announced the development of its new chassis, the IR-28, after 16 years of perfecting the DW12 engine. This project, currently in development by Dallara, aims to reduce weight, improve aerodynamics to facilitate overtaking, and integrate the aeroscreen more seamlessly into Formula models.
The first representations of the IR-28 show a cleaner and more aggressive profile, moving away from the 'cut lid' appearance of the current aeroscreen, and resembling Formula cars more closely, while maintaining the characteristic simplicity of Indy. The cockpit has been redesigned to better accommodate taller drivers, optimizing comfort and ventilation.
Although details about the powertrain and aerodynamics are still pending, Indy informed that wings and underbody have been designed to reduce aerodynamic drag, allowing vehicles to operate closer in corners, which promises more intense braking races. For weight reduction, the supercapacitor was replaced by a standard battery and a lighter Xtrac transmission was adopted, resulting in a 45 kg reduction in the mechanical assembly.
The engines remain the same—a 2.4-liter twin-turbo V6 supplied by Chevrolet and Honda—but they have been adjusted with continuous development advancements, generating an unspecified power increase. Additionally, the suspension will receive a new set that will allow for more adjustments in spring, damper, and inertia without increasing team costs. Initial tests with the prototype will begin this week, with the debut scheduled only for the 2028 season.
Volkswagen initially showed the Tukan, its new compact pickup truck, only in the double-cab configuration, focusing on color, name, and shape, which was seen as a response to the market's preference for SUVs with less practical cargo beds. Recently, however, the simple cabin version was revealed, which had previously circulated only camouflaged or as a test vehicle.
The Tukan CS holds strategic importance equivalent to its more sophisticated version, as it is expected to succeed the Saveiro and surpass the Strada, which dominates both the segment and the market. The key mechanical distinction lies in the rear suspension, which will use a robust solid axle with semi-elliptical leaf springs, following the same engineering as Fiat, which should ensure a load capacity close to 700 kg.
Regarding engines, it will inherit options from the T-Cross, sharing the modular MQB platform, ranging from 1.0 TSI up to the new 1.5 TSI mild hybrid, the latter intended for the higher-end double-cab versions. Although the Tarok concept was seen at the Auto Show in 2018, the official launch of the pickup is scheduled for the first half of 2027, representing a long wait.
Volkswagen presented the hybrid version of the T-Roc in Europe, an SUV derived from the Golf Mk7, equipped with a 1.5 turbo TSI Evo2 engine, two electric motors, and a 1.6 kWh battery. Although this powertrain seems distant for the Brazilian public, this unprecedented engine in the country will serve as the basis for the national T-Roc. Furthermore, the 1.5 engine will be adapted to run on gasoline and alcohol, anticipating mild and fully hybrid versions.
A crucial point is that the Brazilian T-Roc will have different dimensions from the European model. Sources indicate that the national version will use the MQB Evo platform but will feature a larger overall length and wheelbase. While it measures 4.37 meters in length and 2.63 m in wheelbase in Europe, in Brazil these measurements should be between 4.40 and 4.50 meters in length, and 2.65 to 2.70 m in wheelbase. This change mirrors what happened with the T-Cross in 2019, when the European project was adapted to the Brazilian market.
The information is confirmed by photos of prototypes testing in Brazil, where larger swings and a distinct design on the front bumper, with new air intakes for the cooling system, are noticeable. The T-Roc is expected to debut in Brazil in 2027, and it is speculated that it might replace the Nivus, although the coexistence of the models is also a possibility.
Audi revealed its largest SUV, the Q9, in the United States, a market where such vehicles have greater penetration. The Q9 will be produced in Bratislava, Slovakia, and will also be sold in Europe. Its arrival in Brazil has not yet been confirmed, but it is considered likely.
Audi's numbering follows a size progression, and the Q9, being the first with the number 9, reached a new dimensional level: 5.31 meters in length, 2.21 m in width, 1.81 m in height, and 3.14 meters in wheelbase. To realize the Q9, Audi abandoned the MLB platform used by the Q8 and adopted the PPC architecture, developed in collaboration with Porsche.
The four-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, similar to the one used in the Cayenne Coupe, is supplied by Porsche. In the launch sports variant, the SQ9, it generates 599 hp and 81.6 kgfm of torque. However, American consumers will also have the option of the 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, which produces 435 hp. The transmission is always an eight-speed automatic, coupled with the Quattro all-wheel-drive system, which directs most of the power to the rear axle and includes an electronic locking differential.
For the European market, the Q9 will also be available with a three-liter turbodiesel V6 engine, capable of delivering 245 hp or 299 hp, depending on the version, assisted by a mild hybrid system that provides an additional 24 hp when necessary. Plug-in hybrid versions will be introduced next year. Although there is no official forecast for Brazil, Audi generally launches new products quickly in the local market.
After an advertising incident with the new electric Charger, Dodge is focused on damage control and decided to revive past icons with a modern look, including the Copperhead concept, which is expected to become a production model.
More recently, the company announced a probable modern reinterpretation of the Plymouth Superbird and Dodge Charger Daytona combination, characterized by an aerodynamic nose and a raised rear wing. The images released so far are only conceptual projections, but the outlook is promising.
A more concrete announcement was made recently: Dodge released a teaser video focused on classic muscle car enthusiasts, highlighting yellow and black colors, dragstrip lights, and bees. This signals the return of the Super Bee. The original Super Bee was launched in 1968, based on the Coronet, and was known for offering the option of 426 Hemi V8 (seven liters) and Six Pack 440 (7.2 liters) engines.
The nomenclature was also briefly used in 2023 on the Charger sedan, with a special Super Bee edition limited to 1,000 units, launched in the Last Call farewell series. Even without official images or emblems in the teaser, the message is clear. An important date was marked: August 7, 2026, coinciding with the Roadkill Nights event, Dodge's annual drag racing festival organized in partnership with Motor Trend magazine, which often serves as a stage for concept and model debuts.
The central government clarified on Thursday that premium gasoline sold by state-owned oil companies does not contain an ethanol additive. Furthermore, it was stated that there are currently no decisions regarding blending more than 20% ethanol into gasoline, and there are no proposals to resume supplies of E0 or E10 gasoline.
Oil and Natural Gas Minister Suresh Gopi provided this information in a written response in Lok Sabha. He stated that premium fuel types such as XP100 from Indian Oil, poWer100 from Hindustan Petroleum, and Speed100 from Bharat Petroleum do not contain ethanol. These special fuel types include special additives to ensure better performance and account for about 0.5% of the total gasoline sales volume in the country.
The cost of these premium gasoline types is approximately 160 rupees per liter, whereas regular gasoline costs about 102.12 rupees per liter. Currently, regular gasoline contains up to 20% ethanol.
Suresh Gopi emphasized that any decision to add more than 20% ethanol to gasoline will only be made after conducting detailed scientific and technical research. This process will involve consultations with vehicle manufacturers, oil trading companies, and research institutions.
The government has directed state and private oil companies to ensure the availability of gasoline blended up to 20% ethanol in all states and union territories of the country. Under the ethanol blended fuel program, gasoline blended with ethanol having a minimum octane rating of 95 RESEARCH RON was also approved starting April 1, 2026.
According to the government, there have been no mass confirmed complaints from vehicle manufacturers, automotive associations, or consumer groups regarding E20 gasoline. Laboratory tests, field trials, and operational data have shown that E20 fuel does not have a widespread negative impact on engine reliability, performance, or vehicle lifespan.
The Minister noted that over 20 million two-wheelers and more than 30 million passenger cars operating on high-ethanol content fuel are in use in the country. To date, no confirmed data has been presented regarding mass engine failures due to ethanol blending.
Regarding the non-resumption of E0 or E10 gasoline supplies, the government cited logistical difficulties. The government stated that maintaining a separate supply system for E0, E10, and E20 gasoline at over one hundred thousand petrol pumps across the country would significantly increase transportation, storage, and fuel management costs.
It should be noted that E0 denotes gasoline without ethanol, while E10 contains 10% ethanol. E20 gasoline consists of 80% gasoline and 20% ethanol. Currently, E20 gasoline is supplied to over one hundred thousand petrol pumps across the country, while premium gasoline is available only at select petrol pumps.
The history of Korean brands in Brazil is about to change significantly, as Kia Motors' headquarters negotiates with the Federal Government to assume direct control of its operations in the national territory. This move concludes a 34-year period during which representation was managed by the Gandini Group.
This transition goes beyond a simple administrative change; it involves forgiving a billion-dollar debt inherited from Asia Motors, Kia's former subsidiary, which had received federal incentives in the 90s to build a Topic and Towner factory that was never realized. In return, Kia's headquarters proposes a real productive investment, aiming to build a second industrial complex, possibly in Piracicaba/SP or Sorocaba/SP, with the potential to generate 5,000 direct jobs.
Kia's new structure, scheduled to operate starting in 2028 using the K3 modular architecture, is crucial for the group. It will allow not only the nationalization of Kia models but also unlock the production of new generations of Creta and i20, in addition to supporting the future development of pickups and compact cars in collaboration with General Motors. Currently, the Hyundai factory in Piracicaba is already operating at the limit of its annual capacity of 215,000 vehicles.
Historically, Hyundai and Kia entered Brazil in the 90s as separate entities, with the Gandini Group responsible for Kia (with models like Besta and Sportage) and the CAOA Group for Hyundai. After Hyundai acquired Kia in the global market in 1998, Brazil maintained a fragmented structure, while operations were unified elsewhere in the world. In 2024, Hyundai began organizing this scenario by taking control of its sales and imports from CAOA, paving the way for complete unification under the headquarters.
Additionally, Fiat officially confirmed that the Brazilian version of the Grande Panda will be named Argo X. Although the name suggests a link to the Fiat Argo, which has been on the market for almost ten years and is based on the Punto platform, the Argo X will use an entirely new platform called Smart Car, shared with other Stellantis vehicles, such as the Citroën C3 and Basalt, and the future Fiat Grizzly. The brand positions it as a hatchback with compact SUV characteristics.
Herlander Zola, Stellantis CEO in Latin America, justified the name choice, explaining that it aims to capitalize on the familiarity of the Brazilian public with the Argo, while the X suffix reinforces the 'mini-SUV' image. Zola also mentioned that this strategy helps reverse the perception that Fiat quickly discontinues its vehicles, which could affect resale value. By naming the new model Argo X, Stellantis protects the resale value of the current Argo and establishes the model as part of a product family.
Despite popular desire for a name like Uno, Fiat opted for Argo X because it believes associating the new vehicle with the popular Brazilian car could harm the brand's image, positioning the Argo X one step above the Argo, which will serve as the entry-level model.
On another front, Ford Racing revealed the first sound of the Coyote V8 engine that will be used in its Hypercar/LMDh for Endurance competitions, such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and WEC, starting in 2027. Unlike the EcoBoost 3.5 V6 biturbo used in the Ford GT, Ford developed a naturally aspirated 5.4 V8, derived from the Mustang's Coyote, optimized for the rigor of endurance races. The engine was developed in Michigan, USA, and according to Dan Sayers, the choice of the naturally aspirated engine aims to simplify the setup, minimizing failure risks.
Testing of this prototype will begin at various European circuits next month, preparing it to compete alongside major names such as Ferrari, Toyota, Porsche, and Cadillac. Meanwhile, the McLaren F1 GTR belonging to Pink Floyd drummer Nick Mason will be auctioned by RM Sotheby’s in August in California during Monterey Car Week. The car is estimated to sell for over US$ 35 million, which would make it the most expensive McLaren F1 in history. Finally, Chevrolet launched the S10 Trailboss in Argentina, an off-road version with raised suspension and Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain tires, and there are expectations that it will arrive in Brazil soon.
The motorsport world mourns the passing of Miguel Crispim Ladeira, known as Crispim, who died on Sunday (19th) at the age of 85 after multiple organ failure while hospitalized for an extended period.
Under the guidance of Jorge Lettri in the official Vemag team in the 1960s, Crispim achieved incredible results using small one-liter three-cylinder DKW engines. He was also the preparer of the legendary Carcará prototype, which broke the 212 km/h barrier in 1966, setting a South American speed record. This feat was a marvel of engineering, achieved while working with a piston that had already failed during training.
For decades, Crispim left his mark in Formula Super Vee, Formula Ford, at the famous Boxer workshop (alongside Chico Lameirao), and participated in the development of the national sports car Lobini H1. Recently, he published his memoirs in the autobiography 'Nasci Mecânico' (2025). The publication FlatOut extends its deepest condolences to Crispim's family and friends.
Although manual gearboxes are becoming increasingly rare in standard cars, niche sports models can maintain their relevance, as seen with Henessey, Pagani, Porsche, and Ferrari. McLaren potentially could join this trend. According to information from The Supercar Blog, Woking employees are preparing for the presentation of their new model—the McLaren P50. Rumor has it that to satisfy a certain group of clients who value McLaren's design and performance but desire a more engaging experience, the car will be equipped with a clutch pedal.
The publication does not provide sources, limiting itself to stating 'we learned,' yet the statements made are confident, albeit sparse. It is said that the new McLaren with a manual gearbox will be more expensive than the W1, part of the line started by the McLaren F1 and priced over 2 million US dollars, and that its production will be limited to fewer than 100 units. It is also claimed that the car will be presented to the public at 'The Quail, A Motorsport Gathering' event during Monterey Car Week in California on August 14, 2026.
It is unknown whether the proposed new McLaren will have a true manual gearbox or if it will be a shift and neutral simulator, similar to what Ferrari does with the 12Cilindri Manuale. If it turns out to be the latter, it will be an interesting surprise.
Recall studies showing that multimedia screens make cars increasingly dangerous. However, it seems this will not prevent manufacturers from continuing to invest in larger and more sophisticated displays that may further distract drivers. The new Freelander 8, which will be the first model from the newly created Jaguar Land Rover sub-brand, unveiled its interior, and the most striking element was the huge 46-inch multimedia panel.
In fact, there are two panels: a central multimedia unit, which is very large in itself—15.6 inches; and a panel above it, spanning the entire width of the dashboard and functioning as the instrument cluster. It also displays additional information such as GPS navigation, clock, weather forecast, and onboard computer functions. Below the central multimedia unit is a small series of physical buttons for functions like hazard lights, windshield heating, and audio volume, but apparently, all other controls will be focused on the screens. Furthermore, a third screen is provided for rear passengers.
The technological look is complemented by the overall minimalist cabin design, with atmospheric lighting in 256 colors (similar to gaming PC RGB equipment!) and an aromatic diffuser that, according to the Freelander description, will accurately reproduce the scent of a 'traditional English manor.' It should be noted that the new Freelander 8 will be a hybrid, using the internal combustion engine solely as a range extender, equipped with two electric motors—one on each axle, providing a total output of 561 hp. A fully electric drive version is also planned. This clearly differs from the traditional Freelander, although the classic-inspired visual style, including the sloping C-pillar, looks interesting.
The new generation Volkswagen Amarok is approaching launch, and thus it is appearing more frequently on the streets, albeit in disguise. Recent photos published by Argentina Autoblog show that it will have a completely different silhouette compared to the usual one. If the more straight shapes, high hood, more vertical windshield, and thin pillars give it a more 'Chinese' style, it is not accidental: the next generation Amarok is the result of a partnership between Volkswagen and Chinese SAIC; essentially, it is a VW version of the Maxus Terron 9 pickup. Naturally, it retains the current VW visual identity, including dual-level headlights and a LED strip running across the front end. Nevertheless, the bumpers and taillights look identical to the Chinese model.
The shared platform means that the new Amarok will have a semi-monocoque construction, combining a frame with passenger car elements such as the suspension. While Volkswagen has not disclosed details about the powertrain, only stating that the new Amarok will be hybrid. Although specific information is lacking, Volkswagen might present the new Amarok in Barretos during the rodeo festival at the end of August. The brand has previously held promotional events during this event.
A prototype of the new Toyota Hilux, in the final development stage, was spotted almost without camouflage, displaying almost the entire body, including the brand and model logos. Photos were received from the Guru dos Carros website. The pickup had sensors and a long exhaust pipe directed into the cargo bed, indicating the start of certification testing. This process should take about six months, predicting the release of the ninth generation in early 2027, depending on the production schedule at the Zarate plant in Argentina.
Although Toyota decided to reuse the proven IMV technical base and central cabin structure—including pillars, roof, windshield, and doors—the exterior front end will undergo a radical modernization. It is this deep plastic molding at the front combined with new technologies that leads the manufacturer to view the project globally as a full generational change. The main innovation under the hood is the introduction of a 48V mild-hybrid system installed on the 2.8 turbo-diesel engine. This technology uses a small 0.2 kWh lithium-ion battery and an auxiliary motor of 16 hp, which replaces the traditional generator and starter. The goal is to reduce emissions and smooth acceleration by working together with the improved start-stop system. Since the electrical assistance is localized and only operates below 1000 rpm (without direct wheel movement), maximum performance figures do not change: they remain 204 hp and 50.9 kgm of torque, always controlled by a six-speed automatic transmission. In the future, the portfolio will be supplemented by an unprecedented 100% electric version, the production of which has also been confirmed in Argentina for the Brazilian market. Plug-in hybrid versions, although often mentioned in industry rumors, remain speculative and have no release date in the country.
Suresh Gopi stated that the goal of the government's policy is to move towards cleaner and higher quality fuel, not to revert to old standards. He added that E20 fuel was adopted after scientific testing, and the automotive industry approved it after comprehensive tests. The government's goal is to move towards clean fuel, balancing energy security, environmental sustainability, and farmers' interests.
