Electric Cars

Roush Performance has introduced a distinctive Red Edition supercharger kit designed for 2021–2026 Ford F-150 pickups featuring the 5.0-liter V-8 engine. This exclusive release commemorates both Roush's five-decade milestone and the impending quarter-millennium celebration of the United States. Priced identically to its conventional counterpart at $8899.99, this kit boosts the truck's output to a formidable 705 horsepower and 635 pound-feet of torque, with the key differentiator being its vibrant red supercharger casing.

The engineering team at Roush is renowned for pushing the boundaries of automotive performance. Their existing supercharger package for F-150s with 5.0-liter V-8s already provides a substantial power increase, achieving 705 horsepower. Now, aligning with two significant anniversaries, this potent upgrade is available in a striking new crimson finish. This special offering, the Red Edition, maintains the same performance specifications as the standard kit but adds a visually distinct component.

The Red Edition supercharger kit, despite its unique color, carries the same price tag of $8899.99 as the version with the traditional black blower. Both packages include a comprehensive suite of components necessary to support the heightened output. These include a forged aluminum crankshaft damper, an upgraded air intake system, a larger radiator for enhanced cooling, an intercooler, new spark plugs, and specialized software to optimize power delivery. The heart of the system is a 2.65-liter roots-type supercharger, featuring twin four-lobe rotors, which significantly increases torque to an advertised 635 pound-feet.

The primary distinction of this new release, as highlighted, lies in the crimson hue applied to the supercharger housing. Roush strategically launched this special finish to coincide with its 50th corporate anniversary and the United States' upcoming 250th birthday. Red, a prominent color in Roush's corporate insignia and a fundamental color of the American flag, was a fitting choice. This shade of red is consistent with that used on Roush's supercharger kits for current-generation 5.0-liter Ford Mustangs, which are offered in 740- and 810-horsepower configurations.

While Roush has not provided specific timed performance claims for this package, emphasizing that results will vary based on the F-150's configuration, an approximate idea can be gleaned from other high-performance F-150 variants. For instance, an F-150 equipped with Ford's FP700 kit, which produces a respectable 700 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque, achieved 60 mph in 4.2 seconds in tests. In comparison, an F-150 Raptor R, featuring a 720-horsepower 5.2-liter V-8 and tires not optimized for street performance, accomplished the same feat in 3.6 seconds. It is safe to infer that this new Roush kit will deliver impressive acceleration.

Intriguingly, Roush has left the door open regarding the future availability of this special red option. The product page for the Red Edition kit states, "We're not promising this color comes back. We're also not promising it won't." This suggests that future red iterations might be reserved for significant corporate anniversaries. Consequently, potential buyers interested in this distinct offering are encouraged to act promptly.

This Red Edition supercharger kit represents a unique opportunity for Ford F-150 owners to significantly enhance their vehicle's power and make a bold aesthetic statement. Combining raw performance with a celebratory design, it offers a compelling package for enthusiasts seeking both power and prestige.

Tesla is bringing a spacious new option to the U.S. electric vehicle market with the introduction of the long-wheelbase Model Y L. This expanded variant, which has previously been available only in China, is designed to meet the growing demand from families seeking a larger electric SUV with comfortable third-row seating, particularly after the phasing out of the Model X. The Model Y L offers significant enhancements in interior volume and overall length, aiming to provide a more accommodating and versatile driving experience for American consumers.

For many families, the appeal of the Tesla Model X wasn't solely its distinctive rear doors, but rather its practicality as a three-row vehicle. With the Model X no longer in production, there has been a noticeable gap in Tesla's offerings for those requiring extra seating capacity. This void has become more pronounced as competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and Kia EV9 have entered the market, providing ample space and impressive electric range. Recognizing this shift in market dynamics, Tesla has decided to introduce a solution that was already successful in its Chinese portfolio.

The Model Y L distinguishes itself with a six-inch increase in its wheelbase and an overall body length that is seven inches greater than the standard Model Y. These dimensions contribute to a considerably more generous interior, particularly for rear passengers. This extended version also stands two inches taller, giving it a slightly more imposing presence, without quite reaching the substantial size of the Model X. Crucially, the additional space allows for a genuinely comfortable third row, a significant improvement over the more constrained optional third-row found in the standard Model Y.

Originally designed with the Chinese market in mind, where the presence of a chauffeur is more common, the Model Y L prioritizes an enhanced experience for rear-seat occupants. The rear door openings are wider, facilitating easier entry and exit. Furthermore, the U.S. launch edition will come equipped with captain's chairs in the second row, offering a premium and individualized seating arrangement. This thoughtful design caters to parents who often find themselves in multifaceted roles for their children, ensuring a luxurious upgrade for younger passengers. The expanded dimensions also result in a substantial cargo capacity of 89 cubic feet, which is 12 cubic feet more than the standard Model Y.

The added room in the third row transforms it into a practical space for carpooling or extended family journeys. The Model Y L Launch Series is priced at $63,630. Tesla projects an estimated driving range of 325 miles when the vehicle is fitted with the standard 19-inch wheels; opting for the larger 20-inch wheels will reduce this range by approximately five miles. The Launch Series also incorporates the same 83-kWh battery pack and dual-motor all-wheel-drive system found in the Model Y Premium. Tesla indicates that this configuration provides slightly quicker acceleration to 60 mph and retains the same 3500-pound maximum towing capacity. While the $12,000 price increase primarily reflects the added space, it offers a compelling option for those prioritizing passenger comfort and versatility.

The introduction of the Model Y L to the U.S. market is a strategic move by Tesla to retain and attract customers who might otherwise look to competitors for larger electric SUVs. With deliveries anticipated to commence in the fall of this year, this long-wheelbase variant is poised to effectively serve as a bridge for former Model X owners and new families seeking an expansive, capable, and electric vehicle experience.