JULY 24, 2024

The original - and still our favorite - Autoextremist logo. 

The AE Quote of the Century: Everybody loves The High-Octane Truth. Until they don't. -WG 

(Corvette Images)

Editor-in-Chief's Note: Chevrolet pulled the wraps off of the 2025 Corvette ZR1 last Thursday night, and, as predicted, it is a monster. The High Hard Ones: Twin-Turbocharged, 5.5-liter DOHC flat-plane crank LT7 V8; 1,064HP at 7,000 RPM (redline is 8,000 RPM); 828 lb.-ft. of Torque (at 6,000 RPM); 8-speed dual clutch gearbox; Myriad aero tweaks, including wide side air inlets, carbon-fiber elements, and a multitude of airflow and cooling features giving the ZR1 the highest downforce of any production Corvette; The new intercooler with flow-through hood and spoiler helps cool turbo-charged air to extract airflow; The front splitter, paired with an underwing and smooth underbody helps generate suction under the vehicle to maximize downforce and reduce drag; Available ZR1 Carbon Fiber Aero Package, including a carbon-fiber wing, underbody strakes and carbon-fiber dive planes work together to produce the highest downforce of any production Corvette in history; Split rear window and hatch intakes enhance ventilation and a louvered spine increases engine bay cooling; this is paired with new carbon-fiber hatch intakes to draw in colder air for improved engine performance; The flat-top and -bottom heated, leather-wrapped steering wheel with carbon-fiber accents is standard and features unique ZR1 badging; A sueded microfiber-wrapped steering wheel is only available on the 3LZ trim, and as always, much, much more. All of the performance numbers are still being finalized, but the initial figures are indeed impressive. Needless to say, this will be a much-anticipated Corvette when it arrives. "There is an insatiable thirst in the sports car world for the ultimate in performance. And the ZR1 is certainly that in the Corvette lineup. It's at the very top," said Josh Holder, Corvette Chief Engineer. Watch the video here. Amen. And be forewarned, the Corvette lineup will expand exponentially - as I suggested and then predicted years ago - over the next three years. It's gonna be good. -PMD

(Cadillac images)

Cadillac introduced the SOLLEI concept vehicle on Monday (7/22), "the ultimate design expression of a coach-built luxury electric convertible," according to Cadillac PR minions. "This imaginative design exercise pushes the boundaries of future bespoke commissions, tailored to reflect the unique passions and interests of its clientele," Cadillac PR minions continued. The SOLLEI concept is an all-electric, 2+2 convertible equipped with the brand’s signature 55-inch pillar-to-pillar screen, dramatic interior, exterior lighting chorography for arrival and departure, and intuitive front and rear command console. The name comes from sun ('SOL') and leisure ('LEI'), and it represents Cadillac’s inspiration for an open-air, leisurely lifestyle. “SOLLEI reimagines the discovery of travel, envisioning a personalized driving experience that connects one with the natural world around them,” said Erin Crossley, design director, Cadillac. “The concept celebrates Cadillac’s pedigree of elegant convertibles in a modern form by cultivating high luxury through design expressions and experiences.”

SOLLEI is also Cadillac’s first concept vehicle to incorporate an innovative bio-based material developed in collaboration with MycoWorks. Used in the charging mats on the console and the door map pockets, Fine Mycelium™ by MycoWorks is ushering in a new era of luxury materials grown from mycelium (the renewable root structure of mushrooms). The material reflects Cadillac’s mission to pioneer renewable automotive resources.

The SOLLEI’s exterior is finished in "Manila Cream," a color originally used on Cadillacs in 1957 and 1958. This revived finish was meticulously curated and hand-painted by Cadillac craftsmen. The interior of SOLLEI projects Cadillac’s “art of travel” design philosophy, elevating the travel experience for both the driver and the passenger. Features include a fully integrated beverage chiller with a power glass door and crystal glasses seamlessly blending leisure with travel. The interior decor, wrapped in unstained wood veneers, honors natural color and grain pattern variations, while surfaces feature open pore finishes that can be felt by touch. Each piece is hand-cut and hand-laid using marquetry techniques, creating a beautiful focal point that draws the eye from the front doors to the console, and into the rear compartment. The windshield is framed in milled brushed aluminum continuing Cadillac’s use of natural materials.

Cadillac design utilizes lighting in many of its products as a layer of personalization. SOLLEI elevates this offering with distinguished ambient lighting for true customization including multiple zones and 126 color options in each zone. The lighting can evoke specific moods and personalize the interior ambiance. SOLLEI also caters to bird-watching connoisseurs with a unique interior accessory. A custom brushed metal and leather-wrapped case houses 3D printed acrylic bird calls, a leather-bound journal with handpainted bird illustrations and a leather tool roll for pens and pencils, made to custom match the vehicle interior, allowing enthusiasts to capture their bird-watching experiences.

Other SOLLEI "sun themed" features include:

• Unique sunburst-themed lighting and graphic choreography.
• Sunburst motif perforation, quilting, and embroidery on seat patterns.
• Interior Fine Nappa leather featuring a pink iridescent pigment that creates a subtle color-changing sunrise effect.
• Charging mats on the console, door map pockets and custom accessories are made from MycoWorks’ premium bio-based material created using their Fine MyceliumTM technology. This material is in an iridescent finish in a soft hue color palette.
• Pink iridescent hue on the beverage chiller door and glass tray in the rear compartment that reveals different sunlight exposures.
• “Aurora” tint on primary metal finishes, which includes color shifting to reflect the phenomenon of the sun's solar winds reacting with the earth's atmosphere.
• Convertible metallic roof fabric called "Daybreak", whose name ties to the functionality of the convertible roof; as the roof pulls back, sunlight can pour over the interior.
• Textured floormat material named "Bask," a boucle fabric adding beautiful texture and subtle warmth, matching the color of the roof material and keeping the whole interior very light.

The SOLLEI convertible exercise "represents the brand’s vision to offer modern design this time in an open-air format, inspired by iconic Cadillacs from the past," added Cadillac's PR minions. The concept was officially unveiled at Cadillac House at Vanderbilt, a newly restored, state-of-the-art facility at GM’s Global Technical Center campus in Warren, Michigan. This location is dedicated to providing a bespoke design experience for Cadillac CELESTIQ clients. Watch the video here.

(Porsche)

Yes, the EV version of the Macan is coming, we already knew that. But the big news that emerged last week is that there will be a RWD base version of the Macan EV. The new rear wheel drive Macan model – the lightest variant in the new range – gets its energy from a high-voltage battery with a gross energy content of 100 kWh. (Don't get too excited, it's only 243 pounds lighter than the AWD version.) Propulsion is provided exclusively by the rear-axle motor that is also used in the Macan 4. The electric motor has a 480-amp pulse inverter (PWR) with silicon carbide (SiC) transistors to increase efficiency. This efficient semiconductor reduces switching losses in the PWR and enables higher switching frequencies. In combination with Launch Control, the Macan produces up to 265 kW (355HP) of over-boost power, and the maximum torque is 415 lb.-ft. From a standing start, the RWD Macan reaches the 60-mph mark in 5.4 seconds and has a top track speed of 136 mph. How much? The RWD Macan starts at $75,300.

(Cadillac images)

GM can drone on and on about its EVs that are here - and coming - but who's kidding whom? This is where the action is, folks, as in ka-ching: Cadillac has revealed the 2025 Escalade, with a refreshed interior and exterior and assorted other tweaks to solidify its role as the best-selling luxury full-size SUV. The 2025 Escalade incorporates advanced lighting technology that moves from a horizontal to vertical arrangement, reinforcing the strong Cadillac identity — both during the day and at night. The even bolder front-end includes a standard illuminated front crest and, on the V-Series (shown in Red, below) and Premium Luxury Platinum trims, an illuminated grille surround. New for the 2025 Escalade are available 24-inch wheels, the largest ever offered on an Escalade, and three new exterior colors: Aegean Stone (shown); Deep Sea Metallic and Latte Metallic. Power open-and-close doors are also available.

The interior of the 2025 Escalade is heavily influenced by the ESCALADE IQ’s interior design, balancing technology and luxury for an immersive experience for drivers and passengers. An Executive Second Row package is available featuring stowable tray tables, 12.6-inch-diagonal personal screens, a rear command center, dual wireless phone charging pads, massaging seats and headrest speakers.

Two new interior palette options are available for the 2025 Escalade. Renaissance Red features a leather interior, adorned with a faceted quilt and perforated seats, and a dark open pore wood veneer with a high contrast pore filler to complete the look. Jet Black and Sheer Gray features a contrasting leather and heathered grey fabric, faceted quilted and perforated seats, and high gloss wood veneer utilizing a linear marquetry technique to create a layering effect of tones and textures. Customers can personalize their interior lighting, choosing from 126 color ambient lighting options in two zones. Additionally, the 2025 Escalade-V receives a new authentic carbon-fiber performance-focused interior, surrounded by a deep Jet Black leather interior and uniquely quilted and perforated seats exclusive to V-Series. 

Other stuff on the 2025 Cadillac Escalade:

• Curved pillar-to-pillar 55-inch total diagonal display for an immersive and personalized infotainment experience with voice control, navigation, an app store, and more. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also available
• Seating available for up to eight total passengers, with a power folding third row that folds flat for more storage
• AKG Studio 19-speaker audio system standard, with available AKG Studio Reference 36-speaker system, which increases to 40 speakers with available Executive Second Row package
• Standard Super Cruise driver assistance technology on all trims (3 years OnStar Super Cruise plan) (Editor's Note: Yet NOT standard on the $300,000+ Celestiq! Go figure. -WG)
• Available 5G Wi-Fi® hotspot capability connected by OnStar, along with a comprehensive suite of OnStar safety and connected services. 
• Ample passenger entertainment options, including HD streaming and browser compatibility, so customers can log into any streaming app and watch
• Available Night Vision (standard on V-Series & Platinum trims)
• Full-color Head-Up Display (standard for Premium Luxury, Sport, Premium Luxury Platinum, Sport Platinum and V-Series trims)
• Available power open-and-close exterior door entry system (standard on Platinum and V-Series trims). All four doors power open and close at the touch of a button on the door handle or from the command center, and if activated, the driver’s door will automatically open as the driver approaches with the key fob
• Magnetic Ride Control 4.0 (standard for Premium Luxury, Sport, Premium Luxury Platinum, Sport Platinum and V-Series trims) and Air Ride Adaptive Suspension
• Independent front and rear suspension
• Available V-Series features a 6.2L Supercharged V8 with 682HP
• A suite of standard active safety and driver assistance features

The 2025 Escalade will be offered in six trims – Luxury, Premium Luxury, Sport, Premium Luxury Platinum, Sport Platinum and V-Series. Production will start in late 2024 in North America, with availability in other regions to follow. It is manufactured at GM’s Arlington Assembly plant in Texas. Arlington Assembly - celebrating its 70th anniversary in 2024 - is the exclusive assembly site for the gas-powered Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV and Escalade-V. Additional details and pricing will be announced in the future. Visit www.cadillac.com for more information.

(motorsportcollector.com)

Editor-in-Chief's Note: I wanted to take this opportunity to mention George Levy's fantastic new book, Texas Legend - Jim Hall and his Chaparrals. This Official Biography of Jim Hall is simply one of the finest biographies I have ever read, and it stands as the definitive work chronicling the life and achievements of Jim Hall. Full disclosure, Jim Hall is and has been one of my all-time favorites, and Levy's book does Jim justice like no book before it. It is filled with details and anecdotes never revealed until now. I highly recommend this book for enthusiasts and non-enthusiasts alike. It is a superb effort and well worth the read. -PMD 

The AE Song of the Week:

I am unwritten
Can't read my mind
I'm undefined
I'm just beginning
The pen's in my hand
Ending unplanned

Staring at the blank page before you
Open up the dirty window
Let the sun illuminate the words that you could not find
Reaching for something in the distance
So close you can almost taste it
Release your inhibitions

Feel the rain on your skin
No one else can feel it for you
Only you can let it in
No one else, no one else
Can speak the words on your lips
Drench yourself in words unspoken
Live your life with arms wide open
Today is where your book begins
The rest is still unwritten

Oh, yeah
I break tradition
Sometimes my tries, are outside the lines, oh yeah-yeah-yeah
We've been conditioned to not make mistakes
But I can't live that way, no, no

Staring at the blank page before you
Open up the dirty window
Let the sun illuminate the words that you could not find
Reaching for something in the distance
So close you can almost taste it
Release your inhibitions

Feel the rain on your skin
No one else can feel it for you
Only you can let it in
No one else, no one else
Can speak the words on your lips
Drench yourself in words unspoken
Live your life with arms wide open
Today is where your book begins
The rest is still unwritten
Yeah, yeah
The rest is still unwritten

Oh, yeah, here we go
Mmm, yeah-yeah-yeah-yeah
Oh yeah, mmm

Staring at the blank page before you
Open up the dirty window
Let the sun illuminate the words that you could not find
Reaching for something in the distance
So close you can almost taste it
Release your inhibitions
hey!

No one else can feel it for you
Only you can let it in
No one else, no one else
Can speak the words on your lips
Drench yourself in words unspoken
Live your life with arms wide open
Today is where your book begins

Feel the rain on your skin
No one else can feel it for you
Only you can let it in
No one else, no one else
Can speak the words on your lips
Drench yourself in words unspoken
Live your life with arms wide open
Today is where your book begins
The rest is still unwritten, yeah, mmm
The rest is still unwritten

Whoa, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
Oh

The rest is still unwritten

"Unwritten" by Natasha Bedingfield, from the album "Unwritten" (2005).* Written by Danielle A. Brisebois, Natasha Anne Bedingfield and Wayne Steven Jr Rodrigues. Publisher: Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC. Lyrics licensed and provided by LyricFind. Watch the Original Music Video (as featured in "Anyone But You") here. 

*"Unwritten" is about living life to the fullest, not planning everything because you never know what may happen. Each day is a blank page and it is up to you to fill it. The song conveys the idea of keeping our eyes open for all the possibilities in our life. "Unwritten" was used as the theme song to the MTV show The Hills, which ran from 2006-2010. Natasha Bedingfield told Seventeen magazine that this song is about "just not worrying." She explained: "I really started to have dreams for myself when I was 17, but I was always afraid people were going to laugh at me. I finally just said, 'Alright. I'm going to write songs, even if they're bad. I'm just going to keep writing until I get good.'" Natasha Bedingfield's bother Daniel Bedingfield had a string of hits at the start of the '00, and in every interview, he'd big-up his sister. His constant praising led to Natasha being whisked off to LA to work with songwriting gurus. Top stuff for her career, but it meant missing her little brother Joshua's 14th birthday. No time for a pressie, so she did what any pop star would do - penned a song for him. "Unwritten was written with a 14-year-old in mind, "Bedingfield told The Guardian. "At that age, you're desperate to be taken seriously, but at the same time everyone is asking what you're going to do. There's this huge pressure to map out your future." "Unwritten" was the most-played song on US radio in 2006. (Knowledge courtesy of Songfacts.com)

Editor's Note: You can access previous issues of AE by clicking on "Next 1 Entries" below. - WG