Good morning and welcome to our daily digest of automotive news from around the globe, starting with…
Internet Posters Beat Chevrolet Dealers In Battle Of Astronomical Corvette Z06 Markups
The battle to ensure fair pricing continues to rage on, but a limited supply of desirable cars such as the Corvette Z06 means that dealers will go to great lengths to snag themselves the largest markup possible. To get around Chevy’s policies aimed at preventing such, a dealer network in Texas called Classic Chevrolet sought to get around these restrictions by auctioning off its build slot — expecting $75,000 over the sticker price. Another dealership blatantly stated that customers must pay $90,000 over MSRP for a Corvette. But thanks to shaming and flaming online, each dealership has backtracked in some way or another.
Dodge Unveils First Of Seven ‘Last Call’ Special Editions, The 2023 Challenger Shakedown
The current generation Charger and Challenger are being sent off in style, with seven special edition models being revealed between now and November. The first is the 2023 Dodge Challenger Shakedown. Based on the R/T Scat Pack, the Shakedown will be offered in either the standard or widebody version, with a Mopar Shaker hood, unique rims (depending on which model you opt for), and some interior niceties. The Shakedown will also get a commemorative “Last Call” plaque under the hood that’s made of brushed aluminum.
Opel Zafira-e Life Crosscamp Flex Is An EV Camper With A 200-Mile Range
The Opel Zafira-e Life Crosscamp Flex is ideal for those who’ve been looking to do some camping with zero local emissions. Of course, range is always going to be a concern if venturing away from civilization, but the Zafira-e Life’s 75-kWh lithium-ion battery is good for a 322 km (200 miles) — enough to get you out of the city, and a 100 kW DC fast charger will juice up the batteries to 80 percent in 48 minutes. There’s also a 95 Ah battery for the amenities, which include a gas cooker, a sink, and a cool box, alongside cupboards for storage, and containers for drinking water and wastewater.
Ex Apple iCar Engineer Heading For China’s XPeng Admits Stealing Secrets
An employee that was working on Apple’s secretive “iCar” project has admitted to stealing secrets prior to taking up a new position at Xpeng in China. Zhang Xiaolang was hired by Apple in 2015, but in 2018 announced he would be resigning to return to China. Zhang was arrested in 2018 before he could board a flight to China. He admitted a single count of stealing trade secrets at a hearing in San Jose, California, this week and could face up to 10 years in jail and a $250,000 fine.
Daihatsu Tanto FunCross Is An Adventurous Kei Car For The Urban Jungle
The Kei car class is full of some curious takes on what an automobile should look and feel like, with the boxy shapes sometimes giving way to some fun interpretations on how best to fit in with the restricted dimensions. The amusingly-named Tanto FunCross from Daihatsu stands out from the regular trims by adopting crossover-like design cues and water-resistant materials for some of the interiors.
Toyota Gives GR Yaris A Torque Boost Through Kinto Factory Tuning Program
Yaris GR owners in Japan will now be able to avail themselves of the tune that was previously specific to the GR Yaris Morizo Selection. For those not aware, the Morizo Selection improved the car’s torque curve and upped the output from 272 lb-ft (370 Nm) to 288 lb-ft (390 Nm). In addition, there’s now an option to have GR consultants personalize the tune, with 27 combinations of throttle response, AWD torque distribution, and steering assists settings on offer. Those wanting to go the extra mile can have their driving data analyzed for the optimum combo selection.
What Else Is Making The News
Playstation Announces New Dual Sense Edge Controller
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Sony has unveiled a new controller for its PS5 console. The Dual Sense Edge focuses on customizability, with control mappings and deactivation of buttons possible. There will also be swappable thumb stick caps and adjustable dead zones.
Mercedes-AMG To Run “Red Pig” Tribute At Spa
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The cars of Lewis Hamilton and George Russell will be sporting large vintage starting numbers on their sidepods at this weekend’s Belgian Grand Prix, as AMG celebrates 55 years. There will be other changes to the car’s livery, including a red AMG pattern as a tribute to the Red Pig that achieved a class victory at the Spa 24 Hours in 1971 and finished second overall.