AUTO NEWS: Ferrari Flops, MAJOR EV News, Classics Electrified

Ferrari Flops: Ferrari Recall Affects Almost ALL Models Sold Since 2005

Ferrari has seen more than its fair share of troubles in F1 and now in its production vehicles with this latest recall issued by the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). Known for producing incredibly fast supercars with some of the best handling on the planet, Ferrari has seen incredible success over its history, especially in recent years as it introduces more new models and scales up production. However, Ferrari needs to hit the brakes (literally!) in their latest recall affecting their braking system. This issue affects nearly ALL models sold since 2005, from the newly released Roma and Portofino to the older 430 and 612 Scaglietti. Even hyper-expensive models such as the LaFerrari, F60 America, F12 TDF, and 488 Pista make the list for a total of 19 models being affected. The NHTSA reports that these Ferraris have the potential to completely lose brake function due to an inability to vent properly leading to a fluid leak. The part in question is the brake fluid reservoir cap, which per recall requirements, must be replaced at no charge to the owner. Ferrari will also update the software so that drivers will have better knowledge of their systems by receiving different messages should things need repair. Although 23,555 cars being affected may not sound like much compared to other recalls, keep in mind that Ferrari produces far fewer cars than big-name brands, so they can keep their brand exclusive and expensive. Ferrari owners, type your VIN (Vehicle Identification) number into the NHTSA website to see if your car is affected and take it to your service center for free so you can carve more canyons in no time.

AN ICON RECREATED: Meyers Manx Goes Electric with New “2.0” model

It seems as if the transition to EVs is taking us back to the future with the latest and greatest thing to come out of the dune buggy world. That’s right, the legendary Meyers Manx dune buggy, a vehicle achieving mega popularity in the 1960s and 1970s, is making a comeback in “2.0” form. Released via the Meyers Manx Instagram account with photos taken by Evan Klein, the 2.0 has received excitement across the web. Gone is the rear-mounted Volkswagen engine and in its place is a futureproof electric powertrain. A vehicle praised by virtually all who drove it for its endless fun and eagerness to tear up sand dunes and trails, the company, under new leadership, plans to revive the Manx in 2024, almost fifty-five years after the last models rolled off the line in 1971. From its sizable 40kwh battery pack, the largest available, expect a generous 202 horsepower and impressive 300 miles of range. Given the vehicle’s mere 1650-pound weight, the buggy can hit sixty in a quick 4.5 seconds. Under new leadership, the historic company plans to knock it out of the park with the Manx 2.0, as plans for a beta run of 50 units start soon. We can’t wait to get our hands on one.

BACK TO THE FUTURE: VW Reviving International-Harvester Scout Name with EV

Retro is real and it's here in electric form. Automakers far and wide seem to feel a bit nostalgic given their latest releases, and Volkswagen is no different. Although you may have already heard about the German carmaker’s plans to revive the International Scout name after their teaser released in May of this year, more info has surfaced recently in a YouTube video released by the VW group channel showing engineers driving an original Scout II in an attempt to recreate its driving experience in EV form. VW has invested billions into EV technology and platforms; however, they plan to create a new platform for what’s looking to be an off-road beast. It’s no doubt that the off-road market is hot right now and will continue to be, as automakers go all-in on trail-ready trucks. With the market getting ever-more crowded, VW is looking to make it big by bringing back a reputable name and retro truck with the newest tech and power rivaling staples such as Jeep, the Ford Bronco, and even the new Rivian lineup. VW plans to build an SUV and truck model employing the “Scout” name, built in America, specifically for the American market. Expectations are already high for off-roaders, given that the bar continues to be raised by hot hits like the Jeep Wrangler 392, Ford Raptor R, and electric Rivian R1T. VW promises a 2026 release with more prototypes coming next year. Stay tuned.

CHARGED UP: Plans of Corvette Going Electric with AWD Hybrid Model

Chevy is capitalizing on the smashing success of their new mid-engined Corvette by releasing a slew of models, including the Z06 (above), with plenty more variants on the way. So, what’s new? A lot, actually. More details have been announced about the Corvette’s move toward electrification, coming in the form of an electric all-wheel-drive hybrid E-Ray model hitting the showrooms in 2023. That’s right, never before has a Corvette seen AWD or hybrid tech. The mid-engined Corvette, and virtually all Corvettes for that matter, have been praised for their spot-on combination of cheap power, supercar handling, daily drivability, and practicality. With the newest Vette, owners will have an added sense of security when driving in the rain with the safety and traction of all-wheel-drive, with two electric motors powering the front wheels, and of course, a V8 powering the rear. You can also expect a power boost that will place this new e-hybrid in-between the base Z51 performance package and the Z06. What’s even more interesting is that from the very beginning, Chevy designed the Corvette’s chassis so that it can fit GM’s Ultium battery pack. Yep, it was all part of the plan.

That’s it for auto news this week. EVs are in and so is the nostalgia factor as automakers hope to put even more buyers behind the wheel of EVs. Look out for more info across the industry as we get closer to major auto events including the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, the Detroit Motor Show, and lots more.