Latest news with #FordMustangRTR
Japan Today
02-07-2025
- Automotive
- Japan Today
Big automakers report U.S. sales jump on pre-tariff consumer surge
Ford Motor Company President and CEO Jim Farley stands between the Ford Mustang RTR (L) and the Ford Mustang GTD at the 2025 Detroit Auto Show By John BIERS Several leading automakers including Detroit giants General Motors and Ford have reported increased U.S. car sales in the second quarter as consumers fast-forwarded purchases ahead of tariffs. Sales were particularly brisk early in the quarter as expectations of President Donald Trump's coming tariffs dominated the news. Besides the U.S. companies, Japanese automakers Toyota and Honda and South Korean brands Kia and Hyundai all reported increased sales compared with the 2024 stretch. "They were able to capitalize on the tariff-induced fear and that drove sales, especially in the early part of the quarter," said Garrett Nelson, equity analyst at CFRA Research. While the auto industry has been near the center of Trump's efforts to reset global trade, consumers have yet to see significant price increases due to tariffs. That is because companies have relied on existing inventories that include vehicles imported before tariffs took effect. Prices are expected to rise more in the second half of 2025, but market demand and supply forces could constrain such hikes, analysts said. GM notched a 7.3 percent rise in vehicle deliveries to 746,588 behind a continued solid performance in pickup trucks and SUVs, as well as good sales of models geared towards customers seeking affordable vehicles. These include the Chevrolet Equinox and Chevrolet Trax, a lower-priced vehicle imported from South Korea. Ford, meanwhile, scored a 14.2 percent jump in sales to 612,095, reflecting the boon from a popular program that offered customers employee pricing on many models. Most of Ford's leading vehicles saw higher sales, including the best-selling pickup F-series, as well as the Ford Explorer SUV. While Ford had lower sales of its all-electric F-150 Lightning Truck and the Mustang Mach-E, it reported a jump in hybrid vehicle sales. Higher sales had been expected for both companies, but the increases were slightly more than projected by analysts at At Toyota, sales jumped 7.2 percent to 666,470 autos, with double digit gains in several vehicles, including the Toyota Camry sedan and the Toyota Tacoma pickup truck. Honda, Kia and Hyundai reported quarterly sales increases of between five and 10 percent. But Nissan reported a 6.5 percent drop in quarterly sales to 221,441, while Jeep-owner Stellantis was projected by Edmunds to have a 12.8 percent drop to just over 300,000 vehicles. The United States imposed 25 percent tariffs on imported finished cars in early April. The Trump administration also enacted a 25 percent tariff on imported auto parts in early May, although White House officials allowed a two-year grace period and stipulated that automakers would not face duplicative tariffs due to a 25 percent levy on imported steel and aluminum. While retail car prices have not risen significantly, analysts at Cox Automotive last week pointed to a recent ebbing in dealer incentives as evidence of a somewhat tighter market. Cox Automotive Chief Economist Jonathan Smoke has projected an eight percent rise in prices due to tariffs, adding that "we don't think consumers or fleet buyers are able and willing to accept that added cost," he said at a briefing last week. Smoke predicted that uncertainty about the economy and whether the Federal Reserve will cut interest rates could lead many buyers to defer purchases. Nelson said automakers have to be "very careful" with price hikes. "Things have cooled off from where they were at the beginning of the quarter," he said. "Everything we're seeing suggests that consumers are still very price sensitive." © 2025 AFP
Yahoo
21-02-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Petersen Automotive Museum Honors Ken Block with Landmark Exhibit
⚡️ Read the full article on Motorious The Petersen Automotive Museum has unveiled "People's Champ: The Impact of Ken Block," the most extensive public display of the motorsports legend's vehicles and memorabilia ever curated. Now open in the Meyer Gallery, the exhibit celebrates Block's legacy as a driver, entrepreneur, and creative visionary who reshaped the world of motorsports and automotive culture. The exhibit offers an in-depth look at Block's career, from his rise in rally racing to his influence on digital automotive content, most notably through his Gymkhana video series, which captivated millions worldwide. His role as co-founder of DC Shoes and later Hoonigan Industries positioned him as a driving force in both action sports and automotive enthusiasm. "Block's profound influence has ignited the passion of millions," said Terry L. Karges, executive director of the Petersen Automotive Museum. "His fearless driving and innovative vision in motorsports content have forever shaped the automotive landscape." The exhibit features some of the most iconic vehicles of Block's career, including: 1965 Ford Mustang RTR 'Hoonicorn' – The all-wheel-drive, twin-turbocharged star of multiple Gymkhana videos, including Gymkhana SEVEN and Climbkhana 2005 Subaru WRX STI 'Gymkhana Practice' – The car that started it all in the first Gymkhana video 2008 Subaru WRX STI from Gymkhana TWO: The Infomercial 1977 Ford F-150 'Hoonitruck' – Inspired by Block's father's pickup and featured in Gymkhana TEN 2022 Audi S1 E-Tron Quattro 'Hoonitron' – Built for Electrikhana, showcasing Block's venture into electric performance 1994 Ford Escort RS Cosworth WRC 'Cossie V2' 2022 Porsche 911 SVRSR 'Hoonipigasus' – Designed for the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb 1986 Ford RS200 2016 Ford Focus RS RX, raced in the FIA World Rallycross Championship and featured in Gymkhana TEN The exhibition also features Block's racing suits, helmets, and personal memorabilia, as well as the "Ain't Care Wall," displaying wrecked vehicle parts from his high-adrenaline stunts—an homage to his fearless approach to motorsports. Created in collaboration with the 43 Institute, a nonprofit founded in Block's honor to provide mentorship and support for aspiring athletes and creatives, the exhibit embodies his commitment to inspiring future generations. "This exhibit is a meaningful tribute to Ken's legacy, reflecting his lasting impact and the inspiration he brought to motorsports and car culture," said Lucy Block, Ken's wife. "43 Institute is committed to fostering the opportunities that sparked his passion and creativity." "People's Champ: The Impact of Ken Block" will remain on display at the Petersen Automotive Museum through October 2025, offering fans and enthusiasts a chance to experience the life and career of one of motorsports' most influential figures.
Yahoo
19-02-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Vaughn Gittin Jr. Calls Mustang RTR A Dream
Read the full story on Backfire News Known for his prowess in drifting and off-road racing, Vaughn Gittin Jr. is pumped for the upcoming reveal of the Mustang RTR. Standing for 'Ready to Rock' not much is know about the factory-tuned pony, although there's been plenty of speculation. What we do know is Gittin says what's happening is a dream of his, so he's on cloud a video about the RTR, Gittin says it's the product of '15 years of dreaming.' The man reflects on how RTR is only the second company to collaborate with the Blue Oval 'at this level' in 60 years. That is pretty amazing when you think about it. Another detail Gittin reveals in the video is the fact the wrap used on the Mustang RTR preview car is a one-of-one thing. Apparently, a lot of fans have been asking where they can buy it, but there are zero plans to put it into production. With modern technology, someone might crack the code and offer it eventually, but it won't be coming from Ford or RTR. There are still a lot of questions about the Ford Mustang RTR, which has been developed in extreme secrecy. If you're expecting Gittin to spill the beans in his video, he doesn't. What we do know is it borrows some performance parts from the Mustang Dark Horse, although what specifically isn't clear. We also know the RTR is based on the EcoBoost, so fans of burly V8s won't be impressed. In the preview, despite the camo we could see the car has a pedestal spoiler as well as Hyper Lime Brembo brake calipers. An electronic drift brake will likely be included, something RTR developed that's offered in S650 Mustang Performance Packages. Unlike other tuner Mustangs developed by other companies, the Mustang RTR will be assembled at Flat Rock and roll off the line alongside other production models. Images via Ford
Yahoo
31-01-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
New Museum Exhibit Honors Ken Block's Lasting Legacy
Read the full story on Backfire News If anyone had doubts about the lasting impact the late Ken Block has had on the car hobby, a new museum exhibit should clear things up. Hosted at the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, 'People's Champ: The Impact of Ken Block' celebrates the man and his incredible contributions to motorsports and casual part of the exhibit, visitors will be able to see numerous vehicles owned by Block all in one place. Not only will his rally race cars be on display, so will rides used in the wildly popular Gymkhana films as well as some of the man's personal vehicles. The museum in a release calls this 'the most comprehensive public display of Block's collection every assembled.' One of the highlights is unsurprisingly the Hoonicorn, a 1965 Ford Mustang RTR famously used in Gymkhana SEVEN and Gymkhana TEN. Fans will also be happy to see Hoonipigasus, a 2022 Porsche 911 SVRSR which was built for the rigorous Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in 2022. Going back further in his career, we'll see the car that stared in Gymkhana ONE, a 2005 Subaru Impreza WRX STI, plus a 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI used in Gymkhana TWO. Not only will the public be able to get up close to some of Ken Block's cars, the display space has been fashioned to mimic the man's race headquarters and offices located in Park City, Utah. Photos and memorabilia never seen in public before will also be shared in the exhibit, adding to the draw for fans. The official public opening of 'People's Champ: The Impact of Ken Block' will be Saturday, February 15. Per Petersen Automotive Museum, the exhibit will run until October 2025. Image via Larry Chen/Petersen Automotive Museum
