Good morning and welcome to The Downshift, or TDS for short.
Light, tight, and right, TDS gathers the latest automotive news from around the globe and places it in one spot. Stories are summarized in a single (sometimes long) sentence accompanied by a link for those seeking more information.
Feedback regarding TDS is both welcome and encouraged via either the comments or email at tips@thedrive.com.
Two cups of coffee into the day, so let’s get into it.
? What I’m driving: The 2025 Ford Expedition Platinum will leave today and I’ve gotten used to the new two-spoke steering wheel and dual-screen dashboard layout, but the black tailgate is still an eyesore.
? Late Friday Porsche CEO Oliver Blume told investors the German automaker is pivoting, again, and will pull back its EV plans, keep top-tier 718 models gas powered, launch the new three-row SUV known as K1 with gas and plug-in hybrid powertrains instead of an electric powertrain, and continue developing gas-powered Panamera and Cayennes well into the 2030s all while costing the automaker $2.1 billion with the sudden change of plans.
? BMW gave the first glimpse of the next-generation X5 undergoing testing while covered in camouflage, though the automaker made sure to highlight that this variant has a hydrogen powertrain lurking beneath the metal skin, but the Neue Klasse design influence can’t be missed.
?️ The Chinese-built Yangwang U9 Xtreme became the fastest production car in the world after it hit 308.4 mph at the ATP Papenburg’s high-speed oval in Germany, which means the EV dethroned the Bugatti Chiron.
? Rivian quietly revealed the third iteration of the R1T’s electric power tonneau cover after multiple iterations with issues.
‼️ Hyundai recalled 31,042 Ioniq 6 electric sedans due to an issue that might lead to the charging port door detaching.
? Nissan demoed its next-gen ProPilot hands-free driver-assist system, and it’s powered by AI.
‼️ Ford recalled 101,944 Taurus sedans due to trim detaching while driving.
? Weekend Race Results:
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As Director of Content and Product, Joel draws on over 15 years of newsroom experience and inability to actually stop working to help ensure The Drive shapes the future of automotive media.
