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Style Blueprint
10-07-2025
- Automotive
- Style Blueprint
The Coolest Experiences in the South for Car Enthusiasts
Share with your friends! Pinterest LinkedIn Email Flipboard Reddit The South's connection to car culture runs deep, rooted in moonshine runners, early stock car racing, and a long tradition of craftsmanship and speed. Today, that legacy lives on through historic speedways, scenic drives once used for bootlegging routes, and museums that preserve the South's automotive past. Here are some standout experiences every car enthusiast should have on their radar. Hands-On Driving Experiences Porsche Experience Center – Atlanta, GA Located at One Porsche Drive, the Porsche Experience Center Atlanta offers an engaging mix of performance and hospitality. Visitors can drive on two technical tracks, try out the advanced Simulator Lab, explore the Heritage Gallery, and enjoy dining at Restaurant 356. Whether you're a car enthusiast or simply enjoy driving, this destination delivers a memorable experience both on and off the track. Interested in a racing license? Check out their Track Experience in Birmingham! BMW Performance Driving School – Greer, SC Next to BMW's largest U.S. manufacturing plant, the BMW Performance Driving School provides tailored driving programs ranging from half-day clinics to multi-day immersive M School courses. Guided by professional instructors, participants learn high-performance driving skills, precision handling, and vehicle control behind the wheel of BMW vehicles. Pin Atlanta Motorsports Park – Dawsonville, GA Designed by Formula 1 architect Hermann Tilke, Atlanta Motorsports Park features a two-mile FIA-certified road course with 16 turns and notable elevation changes. Through Xtreme Xperience, drivers can take three to four laps in exotic cars such as Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Porsches, and Corvettes, supported by safety briefings and professional instructors. It's an accessible option for both first-time track drivers and seasoned car enthusiasts. Pin Ford Performance Racing School – Charlotte, NC Located at Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord, the Ford Performance Racing School offers on-track driving instruction with factory-prepped vehicles like the Mustang Dark Horse, GT, and F-150 Raptor. Programs range from half-day Mustang Experiences to multi-day courses focused on advanced driving techniques and vehicle dynamics. Small class sizes and expert coaching ensure a focused, skill-building environment. Motorsports Events & Famous Tracks Barber Motorsports Park – Birmingham, AL Located just outside Birmingham, Barber Motorsports Park is a thoughtfully designed racing facility known for its 2.38-mile, 17-turn road course and wide range of year-round events. The park regularly hosts high-profile races like the Children's of Alabama Indy Grand Prix, MotoAmerica, and SRO GT, as well as regional track days and driving experiences. On-site, you'll also find the Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum — home to the largest motorcycle collection in the world. Pin Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta – Braselton, GA Just an hour north of Atlanta, Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta is known for its 2.54-mile, 12-turn track and wooded surroundings. The venue hosts a mix of professional and grassroots events throughout the year, including Petit Le Mans, MotoAmerica, and various driver schools. Spectator amenities include general admission viewing areas, camping, and hospitality options, making it an easy and enjoyable visit for both casual fans and enthusiasts. Charlotte Motor Speedway – Concord, NC Charlotte Motor Speedway is one of the most recognized names in American racing. The complex includes a superspeedway, road course, dragway, and dirt track — all located just outside of Charlotte. Alongside marquee events like the Coca‑Cola 600 and Bank of America ROVAL™ 400, the speedway also hosts NHRA drag races, motorsports festivals, and the NASCAR Racing Experience. Year-round offerings, including behind-the-scenes tours and youth programs, make it a versatile destination for everyone. Pin Talladega Superspeedway – Talladega, AL Known for its towering grandstands and lightning-fast action, Talladega Superspeedway is the largest and fastest oval track in NASCAR. The 2.66-mile tri-oval hosts some of the sport's most dramatic moments — complete with high banks and wild pack racing. Pin Bristol Motor Speedway – Bristol, TN Nicknamed 'The Last Great Colosseum,' this high-banked half-mile delivers some of the most intense short-track racing in the world. With seating for more than 150,000 fans and a stadium-like atmosphere, Bristol Motor Speedway is famous for its night races, rivalries, and thunderous energy. Daytona International Speedway – Daytona Beach, FL The birthplace of NASCAR and home to the iconic Daytona 500, this Florida landmark is as legendary as the drivers who've raced it. Daytona International Speedway features a 2.5-mile tri-oval, fan-friendly facilities, and a packed calendar of high-octane events. Tours of the track and the Motorsports Hall of Fame make it a year-round destination Nashville Superspeedway – Lebanon, TN Located just outside of Music City, Nashville Superspeedway is a rising star in the NASCAR world. After a decade-long hiatus, the 1.33-mile concrete oval roared back to life with the return of the Cup Series. It now draws race fans with modern amenities, exciting on-track action, and easy access to downtown Nashville for post-race fun. Museums & Auto History Lane Motor Museum – Nashville, TN Located in a historic brick-and-maple bakery, Lane Motor Museum displays a diverse collection of mostly European vehicles, including microcars, amphibious models, and military machines. Around 150 vehicles are on view daily, with regular demonstrations and occasional behind-the-scenes tours offering deeper insight into automotive design and history. It's only a 1o minute drive from some of the best restaurants, music venues, and hotels in downtown Nashville, making it a great weekend trip! Pin International Motorsports Hall of Fame – Talladega, AL Adjacent to Talladega Superspeedway, the International Motorsports Hall of Fame honors key figures in racing history. Exhibits spotlight more than 140 inductees, including legendary drivers and influential contributors, through memorabilia and vehicles that trace motorsports' evolution across disciplines. Open daily, it's a meaningful stop for racing fans. National Corvette Museum – Bowling Green, KY What began as a tribute to a single sports car has grown into a must-visit destination for auto enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. This museum celebrates the full story of the Corvette — from its 1950s debut to cutting-edge modern models. With rare prototypes, race cars, interactive displays, and even an exhibit dedicated to the famous 2014 sinkhole, the museum offers an engaging, behind-the-scenes look at this American icon. Pin Savoy Automobile Museum – Cartersville, GA Savoy Automobile Museum highlights the history and cultural impact of the automobile with a mix of classic American muscle cars and rare vintage models. The museum features rotating exhibits, educational programs, special events, and a well-curated gift shop, all within a thoughtfully designed architectural space. Stay a while, there's more to do in Cartersville than you think! Pin Car Shows Held October 5–12, 2025, Cruisin' The Coast transforms the Gulf Coast into 'America's Largest Block Party,' attracting over 8,000 classic, hot rod, and custom cars from all around. Throughout the week, attendees can enjoy cruise-ins along Highway 90, high-energy sock hops with live headline entertainment, swap meets, charity auctions, and more. With free access to most events across cities like Biloxi, Gulfport, and Bay St. Louis, this community-driven festival is a unique automotive experience. Pin Caffeine and Octane – Atlanta, GA Every first Sunday of the month, car enthusiasts flock to Town Center at Cobb in Kennesaw for Caffeine & Octane Atlanta, the nation's largest monthly 'all makes, all models' car show. Drawing over 2,500 vehicles and 30,000 fans rain or shine, the free event kicks off early — with show cars rolling in before sunrise — and features everything from classic cruisers and custom builds to exotics and modern metal. On May 1–3, 2026, this festival at the picturesque Lake Lanier Islands Resort in Buford, GA, is a celebration of automotive artistry and cultural heritage. Set against over 1,200 acres of scenic resort grounds, the festival will showcase a stunning collection of rare and classic automobiles alongside modern marvels, all meticulously judged in a Concours d'Elegance competition. Attendees can expect gourmet dining, live entertainment, and a refined atmosphere that invites car enthusiasts, families, and collectors. 3rd Annual Great Rocky Mountain Bronco Stampede – Pigeon Forge, TN This two-day indoor expo on August 15 and 16 at LeConte Center in Pigeon Forge celebrates Ford Bronco culture, bringing together enthusiasts, clubs, and a wide range of vendors showcasing the latest Bronco parts, accessories, and off‑road gear. Admission is $15 per adult, $5 for children 6–12, and free for those 5 and under; tickets are sold onsite only. Family-friendly and open to the public—no Bronco ownership required—this event promises high-energy, community-driven fun for fans of all ages. Impressive Drives & Scenic Routes Tail of the Dragon – NC/TN Border Tail of the Dragon features 318 curves in just 11 miles — an iconic drive beloved by sports car and motorcycle fans. Surrounded by dense forest and often free from commercial traffic, the Tail offers an adrenaline-pumping drive paired with dramatic scenery. There are no intersections or driveways to interrupt the rhythm — just pure, uninterrupted pavement. Cherohala Skyway – TN to NC The Cherohala Skyway, stretching 43 miles between Tellico Plains, TN and Robbinsville, NC, is a dream drive for car enthusiasts who appreciate both performance and scenery. Often paired with the nearby Tail of the Dragon, the Skyway offers a completely different kind of thrill: high-speed sweepers, smooth pavement, and long, flowing curves through the heart of the Cherokee and Nantahala National Forests. The road climbs over 5,000 feet, delivering crisp mountain air and panoramic views that rival anything in the Smokies. It's less technical than the Tail of the Dragon but more open and fluid — perfect for drivers who want to stretch the legs of a GT car, a sports sedan, or a motorcycle built for comfort and cornering. Natchez Trace Parkway – TN to MS The Natchez Trace Parkway offers a smooth, scenic escape steeped in history and Southern charm. Spanning 444 miles through Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi, this federally protected two-lane road is a favorite for those seeking a relaxed, uninterrupted cruise — with no commercial traffic, billboards, or stoplights. The gentle curves and rolling hills make it ideal for classic cars, vintage cruisers, and comfortable grand tourers. Time to hit the road! ********** To stay up to date on events going on in the South, subscribe to StyleBlueprint! About the Author Elizabeth Master
The Sun
01-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
Conquering the Desert: GWM's Off-Road Fleet Dominates China's Largest Rally
XINJIANG, CHINA - Media OutReach Newswire - 1 June 2025 - As engines roared across the vast desert skies, the 2025 Taklimakan Rally—dubbed the 'Asian Dakar'—roared to life in China's largest desert. This FIA-certified premier event stretches 4,500 kilometers across Xinjiang, including 2,350 kilometers of grueling special stages through the infamous 'Sea of Death,' Gobi deserts, and dramatic Yardang landforms—terrain long revered as the ultimate test of man and machine. Marking its boldest return yet, GWM enters the fray with its complete lineup of mass-produced vehicles, unshaken by the challenges that lie ahead. Early Dominance Proves Production-Level Excellence GWM has already made a powerful impression, with its unmodified production vehicles dominating key categories. In the T2.1 fuel class, the HAVAL H9 diesel—equipped with a factory-spec 2.4T engine and triple-locking differential—has claimed multiple stage victories, including the punishing SS5 stretch across Moyu's Red and White Mountains. Its confident navigation of shifting dunes and rugged Gobi terrain highlights the brand's expertise in diesel technology and all-terrain engineering. In the hybrid T2E category, the GWM TANK 300 Hi4-T has emerged as a standout contender. Drivers Yao Weiqiang and Zhou Renbin clinched stage wins in SS2, SS6, and SS7, powered by the model's stock Hi4-T system—a 2.0T engine paired with a P2 motor and 9HAT transmission. The setup's seamless torque delivery and rapid responsiveness in intense sandstorms and steep dune climbs reinforce GWM's new energy off-road platform as both powerful and efficient. Stock Cars, Extreme Terrain: GWM's Factory Off-Roaders Hold Their Ground The Taklimakan Rally, recognized globally as a proving ground for endurance, draws elite teams with its unforgiving terrain and rigorous FIA standards. For GWM, the event is more than a competition—it's a bold assertion of technological independence. The brand's three flagship lines—HAVAL, GWM TANK, and POER—are all in the spotlight. Every participating vehicle, from the HAVAL MENGLONG (gasoline) and HAVAL H9 (diesel) to the GWM TANK300 Hi4-T, GWM TANK400 Hi4-T, GWM TANK500 Hi4-Z, and the POER V6, runs with factory-standard engines and transmissions, modified only for safety. No race-tuned upgrades, no compromises—what conquers the desert is exactly what customers can drive off the lot. Built to Last: GWM's Factory Engineering Faces the Desert Head-On 'We chose to compete in the T2 production class to further validate our production vehicles under extreme conditions,' said GWM CTO Nicole Wu. 'Our goal is to bring the same models designed for our users into the heart of the Taklimakan Rally.' Throughout the grueling 4,500-kilometer course, every component faces relentless testing—each shock absorbed by the suspension, every spike in engine temperature, every grain of sand in the drivetrain becomes proof of GWM's 'Intelligent Off-Road' capability. As the rally continues, GWM's message is unmistakable: reliability isn't engineered in laboratories—it's forged in the field. By pushing production vehicles through some of the planet's harshest terrain, GWM is redefining what 'Made in China' means—one sand-covered, stage-winning machine at a time. Hashtag: #GWM The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Arabian Post
01-06-2025
- Automotive
- Arabian Post
GWM's Mass-Produced Off-Road Fleet Takes on China's Largest Desert Rally
GWM's Mass-Produced Off-Road Fleet Takes on China's Largest Desert Rally XINJIANG, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 June 2025 – As engines roared across the vast desert skies, the 2025 Taklimakan Rally—dubbed the 'Asian Dakar'—roared to life in China's largest desert. This FIA-certified premier event stretches 4,500 kilometers across Xinjiang, including 2,350 kilometers of grueling special stages through the infamous 'Sea of Death,' Gobi deserts, and dramatic Yardang landforms—terrain long revered as the ultimate test of man and machine. Marking its boldest return yet, GWM enters the fray with its complete lineup of mass-produced vehicles, unshaken by the challenges that lie ahead. Early Dominance Proves Production-Level Excellence GWM has already made a powerful impression, with its unmodified production vehicles dominating key categories. In the T2.1 fuel class, the HAVAL H9 diesel—equipped with a factory-spec 2.4T engine and triple-locking differential—has claimed multiple stage victories, including the punishing SS5 stretch across Moyu's Red and White Mountains. Its confident navigation of shifting dunes and rugged Gobi terrain highlights the brand's expertise in diesel technology and all-terrain engineering. ADVERTISEMENT In the hybrid T2E category, the GWM TANK 300 Hi4-T has emerged as a standout contender. Drivers Yao Weiqiang and Zhou Renbin clinched stage wins in SS2, SS6, and SS7, powered by the model's stock Hi4-T system—a 2.0T engine paired with a P2 motor and 9HAT transmission. The setup's seamless torque delivery and rapid responsiveness in intense sandstorms and steep dune climbs reinforce GWM's new energy off-road platform as both powerful and efficient. Stock Cars, Extreme Terrain: GWM's Factory Off-Roaders Hold Their Ground The Taklimakan Rally, recognized globally as a proving ground for endurance, draws elite teams with its unforgiving terrain and rigorous FIA standards. For GWM, the event is more than a competition—it's a bold assertion of technological independence. The brand's three flagship lines—HAVAL, GWM TANK, and POER—are all in the spotlight. Every participating vehicle, from the HAVAL MENGLONG (gasoline) and HAVAL H9 (diesel) to the GWM TANK300 Hi4-T, GWM TANK400 Hi4-T, GWM TANK500 Hi4-Z, and the POER V6, runs with factory-standard engines and transmissions, modified only for safety. No race-tuned upgrades, no compromises—what conquers the desert is exactly what customers can drive off the lot. Built to Last: GWM's Factory Engineering Faces the Desert Head-On 'We chose to compete in the T2 production class to further validate our production vehicles under extreme conditions,' said GWM CTO Nicole Wu. 'Our goal is to bring the same models designed for our users into the heart of the Taklimakan Rally.' Throughout the grueling 4,500-kilometer course, every component faces relentless testing—each shock absorbed by the suspension, every spike in engine temperature, every grain of sand in the drivetrain becomes proof of GWM's 'Intelligent Off-Road' capability. As the rally continues, GWM's message is unmistakable: reliability isn't engineered in laboratories—it's forged in the field. By pushing production vehicles through some of the planet's harshest terrain, GWM is redefining what 'Made in China' means—one sand-covered, stage-winning machine at a time. Hashtag: #GWM The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
The Sun
01-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
GWM's Mass-Produced Off-Road Fleet Takes on China's Largest Desert Rally
XINJIANG, CHINA - Media OutReach Newswire - 1 June 2025 - As engines roared across the vast desert skies, the 2025 Taklimakan Rally—dubbed the 'Asian Dakar'—roared to life in China's largest desert. This FIA-certified premier event stretches 4,500 kilometers across Xinjiang, including 2,350 kilometers of grueling special stages through the infamous 'Sea of Death,' Gobi deserts, and dramatic Yardang landforms—terrain long revered as the ultimate test of man and machine. Marking its boldest return yet, GWM enters the fray with its complete lineup of mass-produced vehicles, unshaken by the challenges that lie ahead. Early Dominance Proves Production-Level Excellence GWM has already made a powerful impression, with its unmodified production vehicles dominating key categories. In the T2.1 fuel class, the HAVAL H9 diesel—equipped with a factory-spec 2.4T engine and triple-locking differential—has claimed multiple stage victories, including the punishing SS5 stretch across Moyu's Red and White Mountains. Its confident navigation of shifting dunes and rugged Gobi terrain highlights the brand's expertise in diesel technology and all-terrain engineering. In the hybrid T2E category, the GWM TANK 300 Hi4-T has emerged as a standout contender. Drivers Yao Weiqiang and Zhou Renbin clinched stage wins in SS2, SS6, and SS7, powered by the model's stock Hi4-T system—a 2.0T engine paired with a P2 motor and 9HAT transmission. The setup's seamless torque delivery and rapid responsiveness in intense sandstorms and steep dune climbs reinforce GWM's new energy off-road platform as both powerful and efficient. Stock Cars, Extreme Terrain: GWM's Factory Off-Roaders Hold Their Ground The Taklimakan Rally, recognized globally as a proving ground for endurance, draws elite teams with its unforgiving terrain and rigorous FIA standards. For GWM, the event is more than a competition—it's a bold assertion of technological independence. The brand's three flagship lines—HAVAL, GWM TANK, and POER—are all in the spotlight. Every participating vehicle, from the HAVAL MENGLONG (gasoline) and HAVAL H9 (diesel) to the GWM TANK300 Hi4-T, GWM TANK400 Hi4-T, GWM TANK500 Hi4-Z, and the POER V6, runs with factory-standard engines and transmissions, modified only for safety. No race-tuned upgrades, no compromises—what conquers the desert is exactly what customers can drive off the lot. Built to Last: GWM's Factory Engineering Faces the Desert Head-On 'We chose to compete in the T2 production class to further validate our production vehicles under extreme conditions,' said GWM CTO Nicole Wu. 'Our goal is to bring the same models designed for our users into the heart of the Taklimakan Rally.' Throughout the grueling 4,500-kilometer course, every component faces relentless testing—each shock absorbed by the suspension, every spike in engine temperature, every grain of sand in the drivetrain becomes proof of GWM's 'Intelligent Off-Road' capability. As the rally continues, GWM's message is unmistakable: reliability isn't engineered in laboratories—it's forged in the field. By pushing production vehicles through some of the planet's harshest terrain, GWM is redefining what 'Made in China' means—one sand-covered, stage-winning machine at a time.
Arab Times
21-05-2025
- Automotive
- Arab Times
ALSAYER celebrates the successful conclusion of the GR Yaris Cup Kuwait Season 2
KUWAIT CITY, May 21: Mohamed Naser Al Sayer & Sons Est. Co. W.L.L proudly announces the successful conclusion of the second season of the GR Yaris Cup Kuwait, a groundbreaking sporting event that has significantly advanced motorsport in the region. Launched in 2023 as the Middle East's first FIA-certified racing series dedicated to the iconic Toyota GR Yaris. This season marked a notable milestone featuring the first-ever GR Yaris Regional Cup between Kuwait and Qatar, in cooperation with Al Abdulghani Motors. The Kuwaiti team clinched the inaugural Gulf Championship title amidst fierce competition, highlighting Kuwait's rising prominence in regional motorsports. GR Yaris Cup Kuwait, organized by ALSAYER, reaffirmed Toyota's dedication to inspiring motorsport excellence in the region, strengthening regional relationships, and engaging local youth through exciting and safe racing initiatives. The passion and enthusiasm continue to drive the growth of motorsport in Kuwait and beyond. Mr. Mohamed Naser Al-Sayer, Board Member of ALSAYER Group, expressed gratitude for the tremendous support from FIA, Kuwait Motor Town, Suffix Event Management Company, sponsors, as well as the dedicated team members. He highlighted the event's role in engaging local automotive fans, promoting motor sports, and strengthening regional and international partnerships. Mr. Mohamed Al-Sayer also extended thanks to the sponsors, organizers, and media for their pivotal roles in ensuring the event's success, emphasizing the importance of community and youth engagement in shaping the future of motorsport. Mr. Martin Aherne, Senior Business Director, emphasized the teamwork, dedication, and sportsmanship demonstrated by all involved—drivers, sponsors, organizers, and fans alike. He praised the exceptional performances of Kuwaiti racers, the reigning GCC champions, highlighting how the championship has not only been a test of speed but also a showcase of talent and perseverance. 'With future seasons on the horizon, the team expressed their commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance and excitement, solidifying Kuwait's position as a leading hub for motorsports in the Middle East,' commented Mr. Martin Aherne. A special Open Day was held for the ALSAYER Group during the final round of the season in association with the Group Corporate Excellence Department as a special family day at Kuwait Motor Town, where employees and their families enjoyed a weekend filled with exhilarating activities. Highlighting the season's success, Mr. Bader Faisal Al Sayer, Senior Manager of Toyota Marketing, mentioned that 'attendance and enthusiasm have reached new heights. We are excited to note that over half a million fans interacted with the event via social media during this season. We look forward to upcoming seasons, promising more exciting races, continuous community engagement, and regional sporting development'.
