Electric Cars

A U.S. District Judge recently affirmed a substantial $243 million jury verdict against Tesla, holding the electric vehicle manufacturer partially responsible for a deadly accident involving its Autopilot system. This significant legal outcome underscores the complex interplay between advanced automotive technology, driver responsibility, and corporate accountability, particularly as vehicles become increasingly automated.

The incident at the heart of the case occurred in 2019 in Key Largo, Florida, where a Tesla Model S, operating on Autopilot, crashed into a parked SUV. The driver, George McGee, was reportedly distracted by his phone at the time of the collision. Tragically, Naibel Benavides Leon lost her life, and Dillon Angulo sustained severe injuries. While McGee settled with the plaintiffs, the central question for the jury revolved around whether Tesla's Autopilot system facilitated driver inattention or failed to intervene appropriately. The jury ultimately assigned 33% of the blame to Tesla, leading to the substantial monetary award, which includes punitive damages. Despite Tesla's attempts to challenge the verdict, Judge Beth Bloom concluded that the trial's evidence robustly supported the jury's findings, rejecting the automaker's arguments that it should not be held liable for a distracted driver's actions or that the punitive damages were inconsistent with Florida law.

This judicial affirmation marks a pivotal moment for Tesla, which has faced increasing scrutiny over its self-driving technologies. The company has recently begun to adjust its branding and messaging around Autopilot, especially in regions like California, opting for terms such as 'Traffic Aware Cruise Control' and emphasizing the necessity of driver supervision for its 'Full Self-Driving' feature. This verdict, while not prohibiting Tesla's technological advancements, intensifies the pressure on the company to clearly communicate the capabilities and limitations of its systems. As the legal landscape surrounding autonomous and semi-autonomous vehicles evolves, the focus on shared responsibility between drivers and manufacturers will continue to shape public perception and regulatory frameworks, demanding greater clarity and ethical consideration from industry leaders.

This case serves as a crucial reminder that innovation must be coupled with unwavering responsibility. The pursuit of advanced technology should never compromise human safety, and manufacturers have a moral and legal obligation to ensure their products are not only groundbreaking but also rigorously safe and transparently marketed. Upholding justice for victims of tragic incidents fosters trust in technological progress and drives continuous improvements that benefit all of society.

An incredibly scarce Nissan Nismo 400R, recognized as the eighth out of a limited production run of 44 units, is anticipated to fetch more than $1 million at an upcoming auction. This vehicle, celebrated as the pinnacle of factory-built R33 Skyline GT-R variants, spent a significant portion of its early life in Japan before being brought to North America. Its impressive performance enhancements and exclusivity position it as a highly desirable item for automotive enthusiasts and collectors.

The Nissan Skyline GT-R series, encompassing the R32, R33, and R34 models, holds an iconic status in the automotive world. However, the Nismo 400R distinguishes itself as perhaps the most coveted among them, even rivaling the legendary R34 Z-Tune, which reportedly sold for nearly $2 million. The particular 1996 Nismo 400R in question is currently listed by Broad Arrow Auctions and is projected to surpass the seven-figure mark, with some estimates reaching as high as $1.1 million.

Originating from the R33 platform, the 400R was conceived with a strong focus on racing pedigree, incorporating insights gleaned from Nissan's participation in the Le Mans circuit. Initially an R33 GT-R V-Spec, it underwent extensive modifications aimed at enhancing its performance. These upgrades included revamped aerodynamics and a comprehensively re-engineered powertrain, effectively bypassing the output limitations imposed by Japan's "Gentleman's Agreement" of the 1990s. While other notable Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) vehicles like the Toyota Mk4 Supra and Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution were restricted to 276 horsepower, the 400R boasted an impressive 394 horsepower.

This substantial power increase was made possible through the expertise of REINIK, who expanded the standard RB26DETT twin-turbocharged 2.6-liter inline-six engine to 2.8 liters. Further enhancements included the integration of larger N1 turbochargers and numerous internal modifications, culminating in the engine being rebranded as the RB-X GT2. Beyond the powertrain, the 400R features a redesigned body, complete with a carbon-fiber hood and rear spoiler, broader fenders, and modified front and rear bumpers to optimize airflow. It also comes equipped with Rays Nismo LM-GT1 three-piece wheels, an upgraded exhaust system, an enhanced intercooler, Nismo-tuned springs, and Bilstein dampers.

The 400R's eligibility for legal importation into the U.S. is a recent development, owing to the country's 25-year import rule, making examples within the United States exceptionally rare. This 1996 model, the eighth of the 44 units produced, spent the majority of its existence in Japan before being imported to Canada in 2023, and subsequently to the United States the following year. It is considered part of a very select group of 400Rs currently residing in the country. With just 16,313 kilometers (10,136 miles) on the odometer and its original maintenance manuals intact, the car is set to go under the hammer at The Amelia Auction 2026 in Florida on March 7. If its sale price exceeds $1 million, it will join the ranks of the most expensive Skyline GT-Rs ever sold, alongside Paul Walker's R34 GT-R from Fast & Furious 4, which fetched approximately $1.357 million in 2023.

The impending auction of this remarkable Nismo 400R underscores its unparalleled rarity and the significant value it commands among automotive connoisseurs. With its meticulously engineered performance enhancements, limited production numbers, and clean ownership history, this vehicle stands as a testament to Nissan's engineering prowess and Nismo's dedication to high-performance automotive art. The potential for a seven-figure sale highlights the enduring appeal and investment potential of these legendary Japanese sports cars.