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The Rediscovered Heritage of the Karma Coachworks SR2

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Bruce Meyers, the pioneering force behind the beloved Meyers Manx dune buggy, extended his innovative vision beyond sandy terrains to create a street-focused vehicle, the Street Roadster (SR). This less recognized aspect of his work, particularly the Karma Coachworks SR2, is now drawing attention. This unique model, constructed on a Volkswagen chassis, represents a fascinating chapter in the evolution of fiberglass-bodied cars. Its distinct design and historical lineage provide a fresh perspective on Meyers's enduring influence in automotive design, offering enthusiasts a chance to own a piece of this remarkable heritage.

The Evolution of the Street Roadster: From Sand to Asphalt

Bruce Meyers's initial success with the Meyers Manx dune buggy solidified its status as an automotive icon, synonymous with carefree Californian beach culture. However, Meyers’s creativity wasn't limited to off-road adventures. He envisioned a road-going version, the Street Roadster (SR), designed to bring the same spirit of fun and simplicity to paved streets. The SR was conceived as a more tarmac-oriented vehicle, maintaining the easy-to-work-on Volkswagen underpinnings that made the original Manx so appealing. This shift in focus aimed to broaden the appeal of his designs, offering enthusiasts a versatile vehicle capable of both spirited driving and everyday enjoyment.

The first-generation SRs were produced in limited numbers, making them quite rare. An intriguing footnote in 1970s automotive history links one of these factory-produced SRs to entrepreneur Malcolm Bricklin, potentially influencing his fiberglass-bodied SV-1. When Meyers's company faced challenges and ceased operations in 1971, Karma Coachworks stepped in to continue his vision. With Meyers’s input, Karma Coachworks developed the SR2, adhering to the proven formula of a fiberglass body mounted on a shortened Volkswagen chassis. This collaboration ensured that the SR2 retained the playful and distinctive styling that characterized Meyers’s creations, even as it embraced a more road-oriented identity.

A Detailed Look at the Karma Coachworks SR2: Design and Performance

A striking example of the Karma Coachworks SR2 recently appeared on Bring a Trailer, reigniting interest in this unique vehicle. While the specific year of its construction remains somewhat ambiguous due to its 1970 Volkswagen chassis and later body build, its presence confirms its place in automotive lore. The SR2, particularly in its glossy black finish, evokes a "Batmobile Junior" aesthetic, packing a multitude of distinctive styling elements into its compact 80-inch wheelbase. These features include a prominent spoiler, distinctive scissor doors, and robust, extra-chunky rear tires, all contributing to its aggressive and playful appearance. The car also boasts practical elements such as a removable roof panel and detachable side windows, enhancing its open-air driving experience and versatility.

Underneath its dramatic exterior, the SR2 is powered by a 1.6-liter Volkswagen flat-four engine, a robust and easily maintainable powerplant. While its exact power output is not specified, it is estimated to produce around 70 horsepower, especially with its Holley "Bugspray" 2110 carburetor. This output is more than sufficient for a vehicle that weighs remarkably little, comparable to a child's swimming pool, ensuring a lively and engaging driving experience. Power is transmitted to the wheels via a four-speed manual transmission, complemented by a Hurst shifter for precise and enjoyable gear changes. A significant aspect of this particular SR2 is its genuine Manx certification, underscoring its authenticity and historical importance as a legitimate part of Bruce Meyers's legacy. This vehicle embodies a raw, exhilarating driving spirit, offering maximum fun in the sun, albeit with a more rebellious, "Black Sabbath" vibe compared to the "Beach Boys" feel of the original dune buggy.

Mercedes-AMG Unveils GT Electric SUV with Up to 1,153 HP
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Green SM Launches All-Electric Ride-Hailing Service in Los Angeles with VinFast VF8 Fleet

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Green SM, a Vietnamese ride-hailing enterprise, has officially commenced operations in Los Angeles, introducing a substantial fleet of 500 VinFast VF8 electric vehicles. This innovative service aims to carve out a niche in the bustling L.A. transportation market by focusing on environmental sustainability and a distinct operational model. Unlike the prevalent gig-economy platforms such as Uber and Lyft, Green SM distinguishes itself by maintaining full ownership of its vehicles and employing a dedicated team of professionally trained, full-time drivers. This strategy seeks to ensure a consistent standard of service and driver quality, while simultaneously promoting eco-friendly urban mobility.

Green SM's Bold Entry into the Los Angeles Ride-Hailing Market

Earlier this week, the vibrant streets of Los Angeles witnessed the debut of a striking cyan-colored fleet of electric vehicles, signaling the arrival of Green SM, a Vietnamese ride-hailing service. The company initiated its U.S. operations with 500 VinFast VF8 electric vehicles, aiming to disrupt the competitive ride-hailing sector. Green SM's approach is rooted in an entirely electric fleet, driven by dedicated, full-time personnel. This model starkly contrasts with the gig-worker framework adopted by many established platforms in the city.

Green SM, which boasts a track record of 850 million rides across European and Asian markets, is making its inaugural venture into the United States. Los Angeles presents a challenging environment, already saturated with services from industry giants like Uber and Lyft, alongside emerging autonomous vehicle technologies. However, Green SM is banking on its unique selling proposition: a commitment to eco-conscious transportation and a highly trained, stable workforce. Hoang Thanh Hang, Green SM's U.S. CEO, emphasized in a recent press release that exceptional service quality and deliberate customer interactions are pivotal to the company's success, complementing its green initiative.

The deployed vehicles, VinFast VF8 EVs, are central to Green SM's mission. Despite VinFast's relatively slow adoption in the U.S. market since its 2023 debut, the brand holds significant popularity in its home country, Vietnam. The five-seater VF8 is crucial for Green SM's environmental objectives, producing zero emissions. The company has specially trained 500 full-time drivers to operate these vehicles, providing them with company-owned cars, a stark departure from the typical independent contractor model. Riders in L.A. can access Green SM services through its dedicated app, a hotline, or by hailing a vehicle directly on the street. Pricing will be determined by time and distance, with introductory offers including 50 percent off the first five rides and a complimentary Green Pass membership, offering monthly discounts.

Beyond its primary role as a ride-hailing service, Green SM also serves as an intriguing platform for public exposure to VinFast vehicles. This initiative could potentially elevate awareness for the Vietnamese automaker, which has struggled to gain significant traction in the U.S. market despite its success elsewhere. Recent reports from Automotive News indicate that only 389 VinFast vehicles were registered in the U.S. between January and July 2026. While some earlier VinFast models faced critiques regarding handling and suspension, newer iterations appear to have addressed some of these concerns. Green SM's deployment could thus act as a real-world litmus test for public perception and the broader acceptance of VinFast's electric offerings.

The introduction of Green SM to Los Angeles presents a fascinating case study in market disruption and sustainable business practices. By prioritizing an all-electric fleet and a dedicated, well-trained driver workforce, Green SM aims to not only capture a segment of the ride-hailing market but also to redefine service expectations within the industry. This venture highlights the increasing demand for environmentally friendly transport solutions and the potential for new business models to challenge established norms. Furthermore, it offers a crucial opportunity for VinFast to enhance its brand presence and evaluate its vehicle performance in a key international market. The success of Green SM in Los Angeles could pave the way for broader adoption of similar eco-conscious ride-hailing services and accelerate the transition to electric mobility in urban centers worldwide.

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2028 Mercedes-AMG GT SUV: Power, Performance, and Pricing Details

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Mercedes-AMG is set to redefine the high-performance SUV segment with its 2028 GT SUV, a vehicle that marries formidable power with advanced electric vehicle technology. This new offering, the first SUV entirely conceived by AMG, expands upon the innovative AMG.EA platform, pushing the boundaries of what a luxury performance SUV can achieve. With a focus on electric prowess, Mercedes-AMG has meticulously engineered a lineup that caters to varying desires for speed and efficiency, from the entry-level GT53 to the electrifying GT63.

Details Unveiled: The 2028 Mercedes-AMG GT SUV

The automotive world is buzzing with anticipation for the 2028 Mercedes-AMG GT SUV, an all-new marvel originating from Affalterbach, set to hit markets next summer. This groundbreaking vehicle marks a significant milestone as AMG's inaugural in-house developed SUV, leveraging the sophisticated AMG.EA high-performance architecture. The GT SUV is offered in three distinct variants: the potent GT53, the robust GT55, and the top-tier GT63.

At the heart of the GT55 and GT63 models lies an advanced three-motor configuration featuring axial-flux technology. This innovative powertrain delivers an astounding 1153 peak horsepower and 1475 pound-feet of torque in the GT63, enabling it to surge from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 2.4 seconds. The GT55, not far behind, offers 805 peak horsepower and 1372 pound-feet of torque. These models also boast an enlarged 128 kWh battery pack, providing a considerable range while accommodating the vehicle's additional weight and aerodynamic profile compared to its sedan counterpart.

For those seeking a more accessible entry into AMG's high-performance SUV family, the GT53 model introduces a dual permanent-magnet synchronous motor setup. While it foregoes the axial-flux motors, its 536 peak horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque are impressive, especially considering its lighter curb weight. This variant utilizes an 18-module battery pack, similar to the GT sedan, yet maintains a competitive estimated range due to its motors' enhanced efficiency.

Beyond raw power, the 2028 Mercedes-AMG GT SUV integrates cutting-edge chassis technology. A newly developed AMG Active Ride Control Plus suspension system, featuring active roll and pitch stabilization, ensures superior handling and comfort. This system, an evolution of that found in the GT63 4-door sedan, intelligently manages body movements, linking front and rear axles to optimize stability during acceleration and braking. The interior mirrors the sedan's driver-centric design, highlighted by the AMG Race Engineer controls for personalized driving dynamics. Furthermore, the SUV offers significantly more rear-seat space and headroom, enhancing its practicality without compromising its sporty essence. While official pricing remains under wraps, expectations are that the GT53 will be positioned attractively below the GT55 sedan's price point.

The launch of the 2028 Mercedes-AMG GT SUV signifies a bold step forward for AMG, demonstrating their commitment to pioneering electric performance within the luxury SUV segment. Its blend of breathtaking speed, innovative technology, and enhanced practicality establishes a new benchmark for high-performance electric vehicles. This SUV is not just about raw power; it's about delivering an encompassing luxury experience, proving that electric can be both exhilarating and refined. It challenges the conventional perception of SUVs, proving that they can indeed be at the forefront of automotive innovation and performance. The inclusion of a more accessible GT53 model also broadens AMG's appeal, inviting a wider audience to experience its legendary performance engineering.

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