Latest News from ArabGT
ArabGT
16 hours ago
- Business
- ArabGT
Elon Musk Parts Ways with Trump
Elon Musk has officially concluded his involvement with the Trump administration, wrapping up a turbulent chapter in which he played a central role in drastically downsizing the U.S. federal workforce. Announcing his departure via his platform X, the billionaire entrepreneur expressed gratitude to former President Donald Trump for entrusting him with leadership of the Department of Government Efficiency—commonly referred to as Doge. The initiative aimed to slash government waste and reduce bureaucratic overhead. Numerous media outlets reported that Musk's exit process started on Wednesday evening, officially concluding his stint as a 'special government employee.' While his departure was expected, it came shortly after he openly criticized Trump's most recent budget plan. 'My scheduled service term as a Special Government Employee has concluded,' Musk posted. 'I'm thankful to President @realDonaldTrump for the chance to help eliminate unnecessary spending. The mission of @DOGE will only grow stronger as it becomes ingrained in our federal systems.' Under federal law, Musk's temporary designation allowed him to serve up to 130 days per year. That timeline aligned with the end of May, based on Trump's January 20 inauguration. However, his exit came just a day after voicing disappointment in Trump's budget plan—which includes sweeping tax cuts and expanded defense funding. In an interview with CBS, Musk warned the proposal would inflate the national deficit and undercut the objectives of Doge. 'A bill can be big or it can be beautiful,' Musk remarked. 'But I'm not sure it can be both.' Initially, Musk had set an ambitious goal to cut $2 trillion from federal spending, later revising that figure down to $150 billion. According to reports, around 260,000 government employees either lost their jobs or accepted severance packages due to Doge's cost-cutting measures. The program even triggered legal pushback, with courts ordering the reinstatement of some workers—among them personnel from sensitive sectors like the nuclear program. Musk began stepping back from his government duties in late April, citing mounting backlash and disruptions to his business ventures. 'Doge was turning into a scapegoat,' he told The Washington Post ahead of a SpaceX launch in Texas. 'Anything that went wrong was pinned on us, even when we had no involvement.' His government tenure coincided with turbulent times for Tesla. The automaker posted a 13% drop in sales for the first quarter of the year—the sharpest decline in its history. While Tesla's stock has recovered slightly, it remains 10% lower than before. The company has also withheld growth forecasts, citing shifting political climates as a potential threat to demand. On a recent earnings call, Musk assured investors that he would significantly reduce his time spent on Doge and refocus on Tesla operations. Meanwhile, opposition to Musk's political involvement has intensified, with activists staging demonstrations, vandalizing Tesla vehicles, and even damaging charging stations. In response, Attorney General Pam Bondi declared such acts would be prosecuted as domestic terrorism. Despite the backlash, Musk reaffirmed his long-term leadership at Tesla during an economic forum in Qatar. He also revealed plans to scale back his political contributions after spending nearly $300 million supporting Trump and other Republican candidates in the previous year.
ArabGT
16 hours ago
- Automotive
- ArabGT
You Won't Believe What the Bugatti Rimac CEO Drives Every Day
In a move that defies expectations, the Bugatti Rimac CEO, Mate Rimac, has captured the attention of car enthusiasts by opting for a humble Volkswagen Golf R32 MkV as his personal ride. While he leads one of the most elite hypercar manufacturers in the world, Rimac's daily driver is a five-door hatchback from a bygone era—one that perfectly reflects his down-to-earth love for authentic driving. This revelation echoes similar stories in the automotive world—like Koenigsegg's founder commuting in understated vehicles. But coming from the CEO of Bugatti Rimac, a brand synonymous with cutting-edge luxury and speed, the choice of a Golf R32 speaks volumes about his personal philosophy. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mate Rimac (@materimac) From Hypercar Innovator to Hot Hatch Enthusiast Mate Rimac, the Croatian tech visionary behind the electric hypercar revolution, has always balanced innovation with genuine automotive passion. As the founder of Rimac Automobili and now the CEO of Bugatti Rimac, he's been at the forefront of performance EV development. Yet despite his futuristic endeavors, Rimac hasn't lost touch with the visceral joy of analog driving. His car collection includes BMW icons like the E30 M3 Sport Evolution, E46 M3 CSL, E39 M5, and the V10-powered E64 M6. But his latest acquisition—a Volkswagen Golf R32 MkV—reveals something deeper about his appreciation for raw, real-world performance. Why the Golf R32 Stands Out for the Bugatti Rimac CEO The Golf R32 MkV, known as the crown jewel of its generation, features a 3.2-liter VR6 engine that delivers 250 horsepower and 320 Nm of torque. Coupled with 4MOTION all-wheel drive and a rapid six-speed DSG transmission, it delivers thrilling performance wrapped in a subtle, practical design. Interestingly, the car's key fob resembles that of the Bugatti Veyron—a fitting coincidence for the Bugatti Rimac CEO. Rimac calls the R32 'the purest expression of driving fun,' and he isn't keeping it stock. He plans to upgrade the cabin with modern tech, merging nostalgia with next-gen comfort in a way that mirrors his broader philosophy at Bugatti Rimac. The Philosophy Behind the Wheel The Bugatti Rimac CEO's choice of a Golf R32 is more than just sentimental—it's a reminder that driving pleasure isn't limited to multimillion-dollar machines. His desire to enhance a classic hatchback rather than trade it for something newer speaks to a deeper connection with the automotive soul. It's the same spirit driving the development of the 2026 Bugatti Tourbillon—a hybrid hypercar blending a naturally aspirated 8.3-liter V16 with cutting-edge technology. A Human Touch in a High-Tech Industry Rimac's approach breaks the stereotype of the distant, corporate executive. Instead, the Bugatti Rimac CEO lives and breathes the passion his company stands for—whether behind the wheel of a Tourbillon or a Golf R32. His leadership style bridges the gap between technological innovation and human emotion, offering a refreshing example in an increasingly digitized industry. As the automotive world accelerates toward electrification, the sight of Rimac choosing a hatchback over a hypercar reinforces a vital truth: no matter how fast or advanced cars become, the thrill of the drive remains eternal.
ArabGT
16 hours ago
- Automotive
- ArabGT
BMW Design Shift Is About to Change Everything
BMW is embarking on a full-scale design revolution that will transform every vehicle in its portfolio. Dubbed the BMW Design Shift, this sweeping change will begin with the highly anticipated iX3 electric SUV, set to debut later this year, and extend to every model in the Bavarian automaker's lineup within the next four years. This bold move represents more than just a new look—it marks a strategic pivot in BMW's design identity. At the heart of the BMW Design Shift is the Neue Klasse design language, a minimalist, forward-thinking aesthetic first showcased in 2023 through concept vehicles. Now, this design vision is going mainstream. Group design chief Adrian van Hooydonk confirmed that the BMW Design Shift is not limited to electric models. Every car in BMW's stable—from the sporty 2 Series to the luxurious 7 Series and rugged X models—will adopt the new styling. 'We're ensuring that the Neue Klasse design becomes the defining face of every BMW,' van Hooydonk stated, noting that the rollout begins this year and will leave 'no car behind.' Interestingly, the transformation will start with the recently updated 5 Series sedan. Despite launching a new generation in 2023, the 5 Series will receive a visual refresh incorporating the Neue Klasse design. Although it remains on the current CLAR platform, this facelifted model will serve as the vanguard of the BMW Design Shift. Other key models, including the X5, X2, X7, and 2 Series, will follow shortly. Product development head Bernd Körber emphasized the speed and scope of the initiative, stating that the BMW Design will be completed within just three and a half years. This accelerated timeline reflects BMW's urgency to unify its brand image across all powertrains—combustion, hybrid, and electric. While the Neue Klasse aesthetic will bring cohesion to the brand, BMW assures fans that individuality won't be sacrificed. Each model will retain unique design elements and character traits, ensuring that the Design Shift enhances diversity rather than eliminating it. Initially intended exclusively for EVs, the Neue Klasse approach has since been extended to gas-powered models as well. The massive kidney grilles that once dominated BMW's front-end styling are expected to be replaced by sleeker, more refined surfaces and restrained detailing—hallmarks of the new design philosophy. The BMW Design Shift isn't just a cosmetic update—it's a statement about the brand's future. With a lineup that will soon speak a common design language, BMW is positioning itself to remain a leader in both innovation and visual identity as the industry evolves.
ArabGT
2 days ago
- Automotive
- ArabGT
GM Announces Powerful New V8 Coming in 2027
In a bold move that contrasts with the electric shift sweeping the auto industry, General Motors has announced a colossal investment aimed at creating its next-generation V8 engine. The company, which owns Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, and Buick, is channeling $888 million—around 3.33 billion Saudi Riyals—into its Tonawanda engine plant in Buffalo, New York, to build the sixth generation of its iconic V8. This marks GM's largest-ever investment in a single engine facility, and it comes at a time when most global automakers are focusing their resources on electric powertrains. But GM's decision signals a different approach—one that continues to prioritize the demand for strong, combustion-powered vehicles, especially in the full-size pickup and SUV segments. Why Develop a New V8 Now? While competitors promote all-electric futures, GM is sending a clear message: internal combustion still matters. The decision to develop a new V8 isn't a step backward but rather a strategic play to satisfy loyal customers who continue to rely on traditional power, particularly in large utility vehicles. The new engine will start appearing in GM trucks and SUVs from 2027 onward. What to Expect from the New Engine Although exact performance stats remain under wraps, GM has confirmed the upcoming V8 will outperform and outclass the current lineup in both power and efficiency. The brand's existing 5.3-liter engine delivers about 355 hp and 375 lb-ft of torque, while the 6.2-liter model produces up to 420 hp and 450 lb-ft. The Escalade's high-performance variant pushes things further with 682 hp and 585 lb-ft. The new engine is expected to integrate advanced combustion technologies and improved thermal management to enhance fuel economy and lower emissions—without compromising muscle. Production Expansion and Support Network The Tonawanda plant becomes the second site for the new engine's assembly, complementing Michigan's Flint Engine Operations, which secured $579 million in 2023 for engine production. GM is also investing in its Rochester (NY) and Defiance (OH) facilities to handle key components like cylinder blocks and connecting rods, further expanding its V8 supply chain. Strategic Signal to the Industry By advancing a new V8 for 2027, GM is reaffirming its commitment to internal combustion in select vehicle categories through at least the next decade. While the company remains committed to a fully electric lineup by 2035, this move demonstrates a dual-track strategy—pushing electrification while also preserving the legacy and demand of performance-focused, rear-wheel-drive vehicles. In a world chasing electric dreams, GM is proving there's still a place for raw V8 power—refined, reengineered, and ready for the next chapter.
ArabGT
2 days ago
- Automotive
- ArabGT
All You Need to Know About the 2026 BMW M2 CS
2026 BMW M2 CS ; On May 25, 2025, BMW pulled the wraps off the highly anticipated CS variant of its high-performance compact coupe, the 2026 M2. Embodying the ethos of 'Absolute Power and Extreme Lightness,' this model claims the title of the most compact yet ferociously capable M car in BMW's modern arsenal. Today, we dive deep into its official mechanical credentials. Enhanced Power from a Proven Engine At the core of the 2026 BMW M2 CS lies a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged inline-six engine, now tuned to churn out an impressive 523 horsepower and 649 Nm of torque. That's a 50 hp and 49 Nm bump over the standard automatic M2 we previously tested at ArabGT. These new figures set a new benchmark for rear-wheel-drive performance under the BMW M Power badge. Engineers didn't just amplify performance—they also shaved 97 pounds off the curb weight, bringing the M2 CS down to 1,710 kilograms. This was made possible through strategic use of carbon fiber components including body panels, a ducktail-style trunk lid, lightweight forged wheels, and standard-issue carbon racing seats. Precision-Tuned for Performance The 2026 BMW M2 CS doesn't just pack more muscle—it's also smarter on its feet. The chassis has been meticulously re-engineered: stiffer springs, recalibrated adaptive dampers, and finely tuned systems for the electronic differential, ABS, and stability control ensure flawless power delivery and rear-wheel grip, even under intense pressure. BMW claims the M2 CS rockets from 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) in just 3.7 seconds, with top speed electronically capped at 188 mph (302 km/h). These figures place it at the summit of rear-wheel-drive performance in the M lineup. Production Timeline and Launch Schedule Production of the M2 CS is set to commence in August 2025 at BMW's San Luis Potosí plant in Mexico. Customer deliveries are slated for fall 2025, God willing. While official pricing has yet to be confirmed, early estimates suggest a global sticker price around $100,000 (SAR 375,000). That positions it well above the base 2026 M2, which starts at $69,375 (SAR 260,156). 2026 BMW M2 CS Gallery: The 2026 BMW M2 CS delivers a visceral driving experience by combining electrifying power with the weight-saving magic of carbon fiber. For enthusiasts craving a machine that fuses racetrack DNA with daily drivability, this latest CS model stands as the ultimate manifestation of M performance.
