Cars

Volkswagen ID.4 Gains Tesla Supercharger Access, Hints at Major Overhaul

Volkswagen's ID.4 and ID.Buzz electric vehicles are now compatible with Tesla's extensive Supercharger network, a significant enhancement for VW EV owners. This move, which follows similar adoptions by other major automakers, grants access to over 25,000 fast-charging stations across the United States. However, this positive step comes amidst declining ID.4 sales and plans for a complete redesign, signaling Volkswagen's efforts to invigorate its presence in the competitive electric vehicle landscape.

Volkswagen ID.4 Embraces Tesla Supercharging Amidst Forthcoming Redesign

In a long-anticipated development for electric vehicle enthusiasts, Volkswagen has officially announced that its ID.4 crossover and ID.Buzz minivan will gain access to Tesla's formidable Supercharger network. This integration, effective immediately, will significantly expand charging accessibility for VW EV owners across North America, providing a much-needed convenience for long-distance travel and daily commutes.

Owners of compatible VW EVs will need to acquire a Volkswagen-approved NACS (North American Charging Standard) adapter to utilize the Tesla Superchargers. This adapter will be available for purchase at approximately $200. For early adopters, owners of 2025 models will benefit from a $100 rebate on the adapter, while all 2026 VW EVs will include the NACS adapter as a standard feature, streamlining the charging experience from the outset.

This strategic move, announced by Petar Danilovic, Senior Vice President of Product Marketing and Strategy at Volkswagen of America, positions VW EV owners to tap into a vast network of over 25,000 DC fast chargers, supplementing the existing 5,000-plus fast chargers provided by Electrify America. Danilovic emphasized the enhanced convenience this offers, whether for extended road trips or as a reliable alternative for those without home charging capabilities.

The announcement comes at a pivotal moment for the ID.4. While initial sales for the model were robust, a recent downturn in demand has prompted Volkswagen to re-evaluate its strategy. This includes temporary production slowdowns at its Chattanooga plant and the impact of evolving EV tax credit policies. Compounding these challenges, the ID.4's pricing currently positions it above key rivals such as the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Tesla Model Y, without offering a discernible competitive edge in performance or features.

Consequently, Volkswagen is preparing for a comprehensive overhaul of the ID.4. This impending redesign is expected to bring significant changes, encompassing both exterior aesthetics and interior functionalities, with a strong focus on user-friendliness. Unlike a typical mid-cycle refresh, this complete reimagining underscores Volkswagen's commitment to revitalizing the ID.4 and strengthening its appeal in the dynamic EV market. The brand aims to mirror the rapid improvements seen in other EV models, acknowledging the need for swift adaptation to consumer preferences and technological advancements.

A Forward Leap and a Necessary Evolution in the EV Landscape

The integration of Volkswagen's ID.4 and ID.Buzz into the Tesla Supercharger network marks a crucial step forward for EV adoption and convenience. For Volkswagen owners, this means an end to range anxiety and a broader, more reliable charging infrastructure, leveling the playing field with competitors who embraced this compatibility earlier. However, the underlying need for a comprehensive redesign of the ID.4 speaks volumes about the fierce competition and rapid evolution within the electric vehicle industry. It highlights that while charging access is paramount, a compelling overall package — encompassing design, technology, and value — is equally vital for sustained success. This dual approach of enhanced infrastructure and product innovation demonstrates Volkswagen's determination to remain a significant player in the future of mobility, learning from market dynamics and proactively addressing customer needs.

Rare Corvette C8.R Race Car Hits Market for $1.5 Million

A truly exceptional piece of modern Corvette racing history is now accessible to discerning collectors. A rare Corvette C8.R, identified as chassis number 005, has been listed for sale on Hemmings in New Hudson, Michigan, with an asking price of $1.5 million. This vehicle is one of only six factory-produced endurance race cars meticulously crafted by Pratt Miller, specifically for the IMSA and World Endurance Championship series between 2020 and 2023. Recently restored and serviced by Pratt Miller, this race-proven machine, featuring a 5.5-liter LT6.R flat-plane-crank V8 engine and an Xtrac P529 six-speed gearbox, offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of American motorsport heritage that has competed at iconic tracks such as Daytona and Le Mans.

This particular C8.R chassis, number 005, boasts an impressive track record, accumulating 22 race victories, 50 podium finishes, 23 pole positions, and setting 14 fastest laps throughout its illustrious career. It competed twice in the grueling 24 Hours of Le Mans in both 2021 and 2022, piloted by renowned drivers including Tommy Milner, Nick Tandy, Antonio Garcia, and Jordan Taylor. Following its final participation in the IMSA season of 2023, the car underwent a comprehensive mechanical refurbishment, ensuring it is in pristine, factory-fresh condition. This extensive work included a complete engine rebuild by GM Powertrain, a full service of the gearbox, and meticulous crack-checking of the suspension components.

Weighing approximately 2,745 pounds, which is nearly 750 pounds lighter than a standard C8 Stingray, the C8.R is a purpose-built racing machine. Its design incorporates a fabricated double-A-arm suspension system, FIA-compliant crash protection, and an advanced aerodynamic package engineered to generate substantial downforce. This represents a stark contrast to more historically significant, but less performance-oriented, vehicles like the 1984 Corvette C4, which marked a new era for the Corvette road car.

The significance of the C8.R extends beyond its individual achievements. It symbolizes the concluding chapter of Corvette's dominance in the GTE-class before the transition to GT3 regulations in 2024. This vehicle effectively bridges the gap between the era of factory-backed endurance racing and the forthcoming generation of customer racing programs. Furthermore, it exemplifies the expansive narrative of the Corvette brand, showcasing its ability to encompass both accessible, high-performance road cars and highly engineered racing icons that have triumphed at events like Le Mans. The mid-engine platform pioneered by the C8.R race car directly influenced the development of production models such as the 2020 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Coupe 3LT Z51, sharing its fundamental architecture, layout, and the distinctive roar of a naturally aspirated V8 engine.

Acquiring C8.R-005 offers an unparalleled experience, akin to operating a factory-level endurance racing machine with direct ongoing support from its creators. Pratt Miller continues to provide engineering assistance, access to genuine spare parts, and expert guidance for participation in historic racing events. This commitment ensures that the legacy of Corvette Racing is extended and maintained in private ownership, offering the fortunate buyer not just a car, but a cherished piece of American motorsport history.

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McLaren 750S "Project Viva": A Unique Automotive Homage to Las Vegas

McLaren Special Operations (MSO) has pushed the boundaries of automotive customization with "Project Viva," a unique 750S supercar serving as an elaborate homage to the vibrant city of Las Vegas. This bespoke vehicle, described as a 'Sketch in Motion' livery, integrates over 20 distinct design elements that subtly reference both the city's iconic culture and McLaren's storied history. It exemplifies MSO's commitment to creating truly personal and artistic automotive masterpieces, making its debut just in time for the Las Vegas Grand Prix. The vehicle's intricate details and custom paintwork highlight the extraordinary craftsmanship involved in transforming a high-performance machine into a dynamic art piece.

Beyond its visual spectacle, the McLaren 750S "Project Viva" remains a formidable feat of engineering. Building upon the already impressive foundation of the 720S, the 750S is an even more refined and potent machine. Its 4.0-liter flat-plane crank V8 engine delivers a staggering 740 horsepower, propelling the lightweight supercar from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 2.7 seconds. While its performance capabilities are undeniable, this special edition invites observers to pause and appreciate the artistry. It combines blistering speed with exceptional handling, yet its true essence lies in the meticulously crafted tributes to Las Vegas, making it a car that demands admiration even at a standstill. Its upcoming exhibition at the Wynn Las Vegas Hotel offers a rare opportunity to witness this blend of power and artistic expression firsthand.

The "Project Viva" Design: A Tribute to Las Vegas

McLaren Special Operations (MSO) has unveiled "Project Viva", a one-of-a-kind 750S supercar that transforms into a rolling tribute to Las Vegas. This bespoke creation features an intricate 'Sketch in Motion' livery, hand-painted details, and over 20 hidden 'Easter eggs' that celebrate both the iconic city's culture and McLaren's racing heritage. The vehicle, painted in unique Muriwai White and the new 'Vegas Nights' shade, showcases the pinnacle of automotive personalization and will be exhibited at the Wynn Las Vegas Hotel.

This exclusive McLaren 750S, named Project Viva, showcases an extraordinary level of bespoke craftsmanship and personalization by McLaren Special Operations (MSO). Designed to embody the dynamic spirit of Las Vegas, the supercar features a distinctive 'Sketch in Motion' livery with hand-painted monochrome linework. Its unique color palette includes Muriwai White and 'Vegas Nights,' a newly developed deep black adorned with flecks of cyan, magenta, and green, mirroring the city's neon glow. McLaren Formula 1 drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri contributed their artistic touches, incorporating elements of the team's racing successes. More than two dozen hidden design details, or 'Easter eggs,' subtly nod to Las Vegas and McLaren's history, such as dice representing the founding years of the city (1905) and McLaren (1963), championship-winning car silhouettes, and Bruce McLaren's racing helmet within a heart motif. These intricate elements make the vehicle a moving canvas, encapsulating the essence of the 'City of Lights' and McLaren's legacy.

Performance Meets Art: The McLaren 750S Core

McLaren Special Operations (MSO) has unveiled "Project Viva", a one-of-a-kind 750S supercar that transforms into a rolling tribute to Las Vegas. This bespoke creation features an intricate 'Sketch in Motion' livery, hand-painted details, and over 20 hidden 'Easter eggs' that celebrate both the iconic city's culture and McLaren's racing heritage. The vehicle, painted in unique Muriwai White and the new 'Vegas Nights' shade, showcases the pinnacle of automotive personalization and will be exhibited at the Wynn Las Vegas Hotel.

Beneath its artistic exterior, the McLaren 750S Project Viva retains the formidable performance capabilities that define the 750S model. Lauded for its combination of exhilarating speed and composed handling, the 750S boasts a 4.0-liter flat-plane crank V8 engine that produces 740 horsepower. This power, coupled with a lighter chassis compared to its predecessor, the 720S, allows the vehicle to achieve 0-60 mph in a breathtaking 2.7 seconds. While its performance alone is enough to captivate, Project Viva distinguishes itself by inviting a more contemplative appreciation. Unlike other supercars designed solely for speed, this particular 750S is meant to be admired for its static beauty and the countless thoughtful touches integrated by MSO. Its exhibition at the Wynn Las Vegas Hotel from November 13 to 20 provides a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to delve into the intricate details that make this McLaren 750S a true fusion of high-performance engineering and bespoke artistic expression.

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