Archive for category: General

Introduction to Lotus Elise Safari

British startup Get Lost has unveiled the Safari project, reimagining the iconic Lotus Elise S1 as an off-road-ready rally car. Announced on April 15, 2025, this bold transformation takes the lightweight sports car from the 1990s and equips it for rugged adventures. Led by automotive photographer George Williams, the project challenges the traditional Lotus Elise as a track-focused machine, offering a playful, innovative vision. Here, we dive into the details of this daring overhaul.

Performance and Suspension Upgrades

The Lotus Elise Safari swaps its original Rover 1.8-liter engine for a modern, reliable powerplant—possibly a Toyota V6, per speculation. A custom suspension lifts the ride height by 100 mm, boosting ground clearance. Nankang all-terrain tires, a limited-slip differential, and hydraulic handbrake prepare it for rally conditions. Underbody plating protects against rocks, ensuring durability in harsh environments. These upgrades maintain the Elise’s nimble spirit while adding off-road capability.

Rally-Inspired Design

The Lotus Elise retains its core chassis but gains rally flair. Wider wheel arches, square LED headlights, and a roof-mounted air intake shaped like a clavicle bone echo the front grille. A floating rear wing doubles as a spare tire mount, blending practicality with style. Inside, bespoke leather-and-tweed seats offer comfort for taller drivers, improving on the original’s cramped cabin. This design merges the Elise’s playful roots with rugged innovation.

Launch Timeline and Cost

Get Lost will begin building customer cars later in 2025, with interest applications open now. Pricing remains unconfirmed, but given the customization and cost of a base Lotus Elise, expect a premium. The project targets adventure enthusiasts seeking a unique experience. For more on Lotus’s history, check out . Explore further at .

Why It Excites Car Enthusiasts

The Safari project redefines the Lotus Elise as a versatile adventurer, preserving its lightweight charm while tackling new terrains. Williams says, “It sounds ridiculous, which is why we embraced it.” It challenges purists, offering a fun, boundary-pushing ride for those craving off-road thrills. Full details are at Car and Driver.

Comparison with Original Models

Compared to the Elise S1, the Safari offers greater durability and practical off-road design, with enhanced comfort and lighting. Unlike modern Lotus models like the Eletre, it retains an analog feel with an adventurous twist. Reactions are mixed—some call it a “ruin” of the Elise, while others praise its creativity.

Conclusion

The 2025 Safari project transforms the Lotus Elise into an unconventional off-road icon. With raised suspension, rally styling, and a spirited approach, it’s a dream for bold drivers. Follow Get Lost’s updates for more on this ambitious venture!

Introduction to Dodge Charger Daytona EV

The 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona has roared onto the scene as Dodge’s first all-electric muscle car, and Car and Driver’s recent test proves it’s a force to be reckoned with. This two-door coupe, tested in Michigan, swaps the iconic Hemi V-8 for a dual-motor setup, delivering up to 670 horsepower. Launched in mid-2024, it’s built on Stellantis’ STLA Large platform and aims to redefine muscle car performance in the EV era. Here’s a deep dive into its power, style, and real-world capabilities.

Performance That Packs a Punch

The Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack, the top trim tested, boasts 630 horsepower, with a PowerShot button unlocking the full 670 hp for 15-second bursts. Its 93.9-kWh battery powers front and rear motors, driving all four wheels with 627 lb-ft of torque. Car and Driver clocked a 3.3-second 0-60 mph run and an 11.5-second quarter-mile at 121.8 mph—numbers that outpace many V-8 predecessors. Adaptive dampers and massive Brembo brakes (16-inch rotors) ensure control, though its 5,838-pound weight tempers agility on twisty roads.

Design and Sound Innovation

Visually, the Dodge Charger Daytona channels classic Charger vibes with a modern twist. Its long hood, wide stance, and retro-inspired lines nod to the ‘60s, while the R-Wing front fascia adds aerodynamic flair. Inside, a 12.3-inch touchscreen and 16-inch digital cluster modernize the cabin, paired with leather-and-suede seats. The standout feature? The Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust—a synthetic sound system pumping out 126 decibels of V-8-like rumble. It’s divisive but undeniably bold, letting you toggle it off if it’s too much.

Range and Charging Realities

The Dodge Charger Daytona R/T offers an EPA-estimated 317 miles of range, while the Scat Pack drops to 241 miles—or 216 with the Track Package. Car and Driver’s 75-mph highway test pushed the Scat Pack to 255 miles, beating estimates despite its performance focus. With 183-kW fast-charging, it hits 80% from 20% in about 24 minutes on a 350-kW charger. A handy shutdown screen shows charge times for various setups, a feature worth stealing for every EV. Curious about EV trends? Check .

How It Drives and Compares

On the road, the Dodge Charger Daytona feels massive yet composed, with instant torque and all-wheel-drive grip. It’s less nimble than a Porsche Taycan but trumps a Tesla Model 3 in muscle-car swagger. Starting at $61,590 for the R/T and $74,185 for the Scat Pack, it’s pricey but packed with standard upgrades in 2024—like the Stage 2 kit adding 80 hp to the Scat Pack. Read the full test at Car and Driver. For Dodge’s legacy, see .

Conclusion

The 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona proves electric muscle isn’t just a gimmick—it’s a powerhouse with attitude. While it sacrifices some range for raw speed, it delivers a visceral experience that honors its roots. Whether you’re a purist or an EV convert, this Charger demands attention. Stay tuned for more on its four-door sibling in 2025!

Introduction to Land Rover Defender Baby EV

Land Rover is gearing up for an electrified future with the Land Rover Defender Baby EV, recently spotted testing in prototype form. This compact, all-electric SUV is set to debut in 2027, bringing a smaller, eco-friendly twist to the iconic Defender lineup. Built on Jaguar Land Rover’s new Electric Modular Architecture (EMA) platform, it promises rugged capability in a downsized package. In this blog, we’ll explore what this spied model reveals and what to expect from this exciting addition.

Design Hints from the Prototype

The camouflaged prototype of the Land Rover Defender Baby EV showcases a boxy silhouette true to the Defender’s heritage. Despite its smaller size, it retains sharp, upright proportions and a rugged stance. Features like a rising waistline and slanted C-pillar suggest design cues shared with the Discovery Sport. This compact off-roader could compete with the likes of Mercedes’ electric “Baby G,” blending style and utility in an EV format.

Power and Platform Details

The Land Rover Defender Baby EV will ride on the EMA platform, designed for smaller JLR electric vehicles. While specifics on powertrain and range remain under wraps, the 800-volt architecture hints at fast-charging capabilities, potentially up to 350 kW. This could mean a 20-25 minute charge to 80%, ideal for adventurers on the go. The platform’s flexibility also supports future EVs like the Range Rover Evoque and Velar, showing JLR’s commitment to electrification.

Launch Timeline and Market Impact

Testing at the Nürburgring indicates the Land Rover Defender Baby EV is on track for a 2027 reveal, likely as a 2028 model in the U.S. Its smaller size could make it a hit in urban markets while still appealing to off-road enthusiasts. However, U.S. import tariffs under Donald Trump might challenge JLR’s pricing strategy. For more on JLR’s electrification plans, see . Full details are available at Car and Driver.

How It Fits in the Lineup

Unlike the larger Defender, this baby version targets a compact SUV niche. It’s distinct from the upcoming Range Rover Electric, due in 2025, and complements JLR’s broader EV roadmap. Curious about other Land Rover models? Check out for comparisons. The Baby EV could redefine the Land Rover Defender legacy for a new generation.

Conclusion

The 2027 Baby EV signals an exciting evolution for the Land Rover Defender brand. With its compact design, electric power, and off-road potential, it’s poised to attract a wide audience. As testing continues, we’ll keep you updated on this groundbreaking SUV. Stay tuned for more!

Introduction to Toyota GR Corolla GRMN

Toyota is stirring excitement with rumors of a more powerful version of its sports car, the Toyota GR Corolla GRMN. Recently, a camouflaged test car was spotted at the Nürburgring, sparking speculation about significant upgrades. Reports suggest this could be a GRMN variant set for 2026, promising top-tier performance. In this blog, we’ll dive into these rumors and explore what this anticipated model might offer enthusiasts.

Potential Performance Enhancements

The Toyota GR Corolla GRMN could see notable mechanical improvements. The current 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine, producing 300 horsepower, might get a torque boost beyond 295 lb-ft. Additionally, expect upgrades to the suspension system and stronger brakes. These enhancements aim to sharpen track performance, positioning it as a fierce competitor in its class. Toyota’s focus on dynamics could elevate the driving experience significantly.

Bold and Sporty Design

Visually, the test car featured a larger rear wing and vents on the front fenders. This hints at a more aggressive design for the Toyota GR Corolla GRMN. There’s also talk of a carbon-fiber roof to reduce weight and improve stability. These changes not only enhance aerodynamics but also reinforce its GRMN identity, the pinnacle of Toyota’s Gazoo Racing lineup. The look is set to turn heads.

Launch Timeline and Expectations

The Toyota GR Corolla GRMN is expected to debut as a 2026 model, possibly unveiled in 2025. While Toyota hasn’t confirmed its U.S. availability, rumors suggest a limited run. This aligns with GRMN’s tradition of rare, high-performance editions. For more on GRMN’s history, check out . You can also explore for related insights.

Comparison with the Current Model

Compared to the existing GR Corolla, this version could offer superior power and a bolder aesthetic. The larger wing and vents bring it closer to racecar territory. Inside, anticipate sportier seats and exclusive GRMN touches. For details on the 2025 GR Corolla, visit Car and Driver.

Why It Matters to Car Enthusiasts

If the rumors hold true, the Toyota GR Corolla GRMN will thrill sports car fans. Its blend of high performance and modern design makes it a standout. Plus, its Nürburgring testing underscores its potential for dynamic driving. This could be a game-changer for Toyota’s performance lineup.

Conclusion

The rumors point to an exciting future for Toyota’s sports car range with this model. With potential upgrades in power and style, it might become a highlight of 2026. Stay tuned for updates on this thrilling development!