Key Brief
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The average age of US vehicles reaches a historic 12.8 years.
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Dodge’s new electric Charger is recalled—for not being loud enough.
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Hyundai positions the Ioniq 6 N as a potential game-changer in the performance EV segment.
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Tim Kuniskis reclaims leadership at SRT, signaling renewed investment in performance.
The Hot Sheet: Industry Headlines
Hyundai Ioniq 6 N Stakes Its Claim in the Performance EV Arena
Hyundai is generating significant industry buzz with teasers for the Ioniq 6 N, its first all-electric sports sedan. The model is designed to compete with high-performance EVs like the Porsche Taycan and Tesla Model 3 Performance, promising advanced engineering and dynamic styling. A full reveal is slated for later in 2025, with market entry expected to intensify EV competition.
Dodge Charger EV Recall Highlights Sound Expectations
Staying true to its muscle car heritage is proving complicated for Dodge. Its all-new Charger EV is facing an official recall—not over power or range, but noise, or rather the lack of it. Customer and regulatory feedback demand that EVs retain distinct auditory signatures, refueling debate over the role of artificial sounds in electric mobility.
US Vehicle Fleet Hits Record Age Milestone
According to the latest S&P Global data, the average age of vehicles on US roads has climbed to 12.8 years, the highest recorded. Factors include strong used market demand, elevated new vehicle prices, and improved build durability. This trend signals both opportunity and challenge for aftermarket, parts suppliers, and new car retailers.
SRT Revival: Tim Kuniskis Returns
Longtime Dodge performance architect Tim Kuniskis is back at the SRT helm, with renewed focus on combining traditional muscle with electrification. Insiders predict this move will yield more enthusiast-driven projects, keeping Dodge’s performance DNA front and center even as EVs assume a greater role in the lineup.
Market & Industry Data Snapshots
| Region | Trend | Key Insights |
|---|---|---|
| US | SUVs up, EVs = 8% new sales | Q2 sales level; price sensitivity persists |
| UK | EV adoption steady | Luxury used market impacted by tax hikes |
| China | BYD, NIO surge in Europe | Chinese OEMs rapidly increasing share |
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BYD & NIO’s European market push continues to challenge legacy brands, diversifying the competitive landscape.
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UK luxury segment adjusting to new vehicle excise duties and tax reform.
Forward Look: Launches & Events to Watch
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Monterey Car Week, California (August 8–18): Anticipate high-profile reveals, luxury auctions, and classic showcases.
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British Motor Show, Farnborough (August 14–17): Industry panels, tech demonstrations, and major new model debuts.
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Silverstone Classic (UK, July 25–27): Historic racing and collector gatherings.
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Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance (August 17): Unparalleled global classic car celebration.
Technology & Innovation
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Ford BlueCruise 1.5: Latest over-the-air update brings expanded hands-free capability and auto lane-change to Ford’s US and UK roster.
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Level 3 Automated Driving: The UK sees growing trials, particularly from Mercedes-Benz and Audi, moving the legal and technological boundaries of eyes-off driving.
Movers & Shakers
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Tim Kuniskis resumes SRT leadership, indicating a bold strategic blend of performance and electrification for Dodge.
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Ford & Volkswagen both announce leadership changes at the executive level, focusing on accelerating electric transition and global reorganization.
Motorsport, Culture & Community Insight
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Formula 1 and WRC: Summer rounds deliver unpredictability, with McLaren and Toyota turning in surprise podiums.
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UK grassroots motorsport: Local clubs are experiencing record-level event participation as enthusiasm for driving and community returns post-pandemic.
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Quirky Highlight: A video of a Dodge exec mimicking engine noises during the silent Charger EV demo has gone viral—powerfully illustrating the evolving role of tradition and emotion in the EV era.
Discussion Point: As artificial sound technology matures, what defines an “authentic” driving experience for future enthusiasts? Industry feedback and reader perspectives are welcomed.
Compiled from sources including S&P Global, Top Gear, Reuters, Automotive News, Motor Trend, Autocar, and manufacturer press releases (July 2025).
