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  • 10/02/23 - Ford Mustang Dark Horse, Cheaper EV spells troubles for big autos, How boost gauge lies about added powers

10/02/23 - Ford Mustang Dark Horse, Cheaper EV spells troubles for big autos, How boost gauge lies about added powers

10-02-2023

GM. Rev up your day with the latest automotive news and insights delivered to your inbox in our exclusive newsletter! In today’s email:

  • 🚗 Car reveal/review: Ford Mustang Dark Horse, Mullen GT, convertible Mini Cooper

  • ⚡ EV: Cheaper electric cars spells troubles for big autos

  • 🙌 Tips and advices: Oil changes and warranty claims, how boost gauge lies about added powers

  • 🔧 Car’s part/upgrade: Off-road wheels for Tesla model Y

Ford has introduced the 2024 Mustang Dark Horse, featuring a 500-horsepower V8 engine. This Mustang variant emphasizes handling with MagneRide dampers, Brembo brakes, and Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS tires. It's designed for track capability and precise cornering. An optional handling package includes aggressive aero and even grippier Trofeo RS tires. However, for non-track use, the standard Dark Horse offers a livelier road experience. This model is likely to be a future classic.

Mullen GT | Car and Driver

The Mullen GT, an electric sports car, is set to debut in the U.S. in 2025/2026. The car has around 400 horsepower, a 78.0-kWh battery, all-wheel drive, and a claimed 230-mile range. Originally marketed as a supercar, it's now priced at $150,000 with a 0-60 mph time of 4.2 seconds. Mullen plans to manufacture it in Indiana with some financial uncertainties surround the company.

Mini has revealed the Cooper EV, with ICE models on the horizon, including a convertible. The fabric top design remains similar to the current Cooper Convertible. Trunk space is a concern. The design features different taillights, and an intelligent infotainment system could become standard. The prototype has a single exhaust, but Mini may revert to a dual-outlet system. Existing powertrains, including a turbocharged triple, 2.0-liter four-pot, and a new JCW model, will likely be retained.

Legacy automakers like Ford are struggling to catch up with the EV shift dominated by Tesla and Chinese competitors. China leads in battery production and materials supply. Established automakers face supply chain challenges, labor disputes, and higher EV production costs. The EU's probe into China's EV subsidies may lead to tariffs that hurt European carmakers. Affordable EVs are crucial for lowering carbon emissions, but the gap between legacy and newcomer automakers remains significant.

The author shares a story about his experience with an aftermarket warranty for his wife's 2014 Audi All Road. Despite issues with the car, the warranty company initially denied coverage due to a lack of oil change receipts. However, the author discovered that federal laws require actual proof of neglect, ultimately leading to the warranty company approving a $9200 engine replacement. The story highlights the importance of documenting maintenance for warranty claims.

The article discusses the importance of air density in turbo and supercharged cars, emphasizing that boost pressure alone is not the ultimate metric for measuring power. While boost is a measure of pressurized air, it doesn't directly represent air density, which is affected by factors like temperature. The author highlights that understanding air density is crucial for optimizing engine performance.

Unplugged Performance offers beadlock-capable wheels for the Tesla Model Y, enhancing off-road performance. These 18-inch UP-03 wheels allow for tire pressures as low as five psi, providing increased grip in extreme off-road conditions. They are compatible with Tesla's standard bolt pattern, costing $1,123.75 per wheel, or $4,495 for a set.

And.. that’s a wrap