The new BYD plug-in hybrid pickup, with 437 hp and 840 km of range, could overshadow Santana Motors’ long-awaited debut in Spain before it even reaches showrooms.

BYD Shark: The Chinese Giant Challenging Santana Motors
The revival of Santana Motors promised to shake up Spain’s automotive scene with a plug-in hybrid pickup based on the Nissan Frontier Pro. However, the arrival of the BYD Shark could steal the spotlight even before that happens. The Chinese automaker, which continues to gain ground across Europe, has created a powerful, efficient, and technologically advanced truck capable of taking on any rival in its class – including the Maxus T60 MAX and the Foton Tunland G7 and V9.
Although BYD has no immediate plans to bring it to Spain, the Shark is already on sale in Mexico, where it’s turning heads thanks to its blend of performance and price. Should BYD decide to introduce it to Europe, it could seriously threaten the commercial ambitions of the historic Andalusian brand.
A Pickup That Blends Sheer Power with Zero Emissions
The BYD Shark stands out for its plug-in hybrid powertrain producing 437 combined horsepower, an impressive figure for a work vehicle. The combustion engine delivers 183 hp, while the two electric motors add 231 hp up front and 204 hp at the rear, providing true 4×4 traction. With a 0–100 km/h sprint in just 5.7 seconds, it’s among the fastest pickups on the market.
Its 29.6 kWh Blade battery, based on LFP chemistry, enables 100 km of electric-only driving under the NEDC cycle, with a claimed fuel consumption of just 0.9 liters per 100 km when the battery is full. The result is a model that’s as powerful as it is efficient, equally suited for work or leisure.
SUV Comfort and Technology in a Pickup Body
On the technical side, BYD has gone all out: the Shark swaps traditional leaf springs for a fully independent rear suspension, while four ventilated disc brakes ensure strong stopping power. Inside, the cabin surprises with build quality worthy of a premium SUV.
Key features include a 12.8-inch rotating central display, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated seats, and full compatibility with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, plus OTA software updates. It’s a level of refinement rarely seen in the hybrid pickup segment.
A Shockingly Competitive Price That Could Conquer Europe
In Mexico, the BYD Shark starts at 899,980 pesos (around €41,850) – a surprisingly competitive price compared to diesel rivals that are less powerful and far less equipped. The top-spec GS trim costs about €45,100, still offering exceptional value for money.
If it ever reaches Spain, BYD could put Santana Motors in serious trouble, just as the brand from Linares prepares for its long-awaited return. With its mix of power, efficiency, and sophistication, the Shark is perfectly positioned to dominate Europe’s emerging plug-in hybrid pickup market.
RACING
Lewis Hamilton Claims First Ferrari Victory As Antonelli Suffers Costly Retirement In Barcelona
Lewis Hamilton finally delivered the result Ferrari had been waiting for.
The seven-time Formula 1 world champion secured his first Grand Prix victory with the Scuderia after a perfectly executed race at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya. Combining strong pace with an aggressive strategy, Hamilton ended Mercedes’ winning streak and reignited Ferrari’s championship ambitions.
The victory also came at a crucial moment in the title fight as championship leader Kimi Antonelli suffered a late retirement after running comfortably inside the top three.

Lewis Hamilton secured his first Formula 1 victory as a Ferrari driver with a dominant performance in Barcelona.
Ferrari’s Strategy Changes The Race
Starting alongside pole-sitter George Russell, Hamilton was unable to challenge for the lead at the first corner despite beginning the race on the softer tire compound.
However, Ferrari’s strategic approach soon began to pay dividends.
The team committed to a bold three-stop strategy while many of its rivals focused on two stops. The gamble proved decisive when a Virtual Safety Car period allowed Hamilton to make his final stop with minimal time loss.
From that point forward, the Ferrari driver controlled the race and steadily increased his advantage over Russell.

Ferrari’s aggressive strategy and flawless pit execution helped Hamilton secure his breakthrough victory with the Scuderia.
Mercedes Finally Beaten
Mercedes arrived in Spain as the dominant force of the 2026 season.
Russell converted his strong weekend pace into pole position and initially looked capable of extending the team’s winning streak. But as tire degradation became a major factor, Ferrari’s alternative strategy gradually shifted the balance of power.
Although Russell drove a solid race and collected valuable points, he ultimately had no answer for Hamilton’s pace in the final stages.
He crossed the line in second place, ending a weekend that started with so much promise.
Antonelli Suffers A Major Championship Blow
The biggest drama unfolded in the closing laps.
Kimi Antonelli spent much of the afternoon fighting near the front and eventually overtook Russell to move into second position. The Mercedes driver appeared set for another strong result before disaster struck.
A mechanical issue forced Antonelli to slow dramatically before pulling off the circuit only a few laps from the finish.
The retirement represented one of the most costly moments of his season and handed Ferrari an unexpected opportunity to reduce the championship deficit.

Championship leader Kimi Antonelli suffered a late retirement after running inside the top positions for most of the race.
Norris Completes Historic British Podium
Lando Norris benefited from Antonelli’s retirement to move into third place and secure another important result for McLaren.
The outcome produced Formula 1’s first all-British podium since 1968, with Hamilton, Russell and Norris occupying the top three positions.
Oscar Piastri added more points for McLaren in fifth, while Max Verstappen finished fourth for Red Bull.
Elsewhere, Pierre Gasly delivered an impressive seventh-place finish for Alpine, while Franco Colapinto dropped from eighth to tenth after receiving a post-race time penalty.

Hamilton, Russell and Norris delivered Formula 1’s first all-British podium in nearly six decades.
Ferrari Builds Momentum Heading To Austria
Beyond the victory itself, Ferrari leaves Barcelona with renewed confidence.
Hamilton’s success demonstrated that the team now has the pace, strategy and execution required to challenge Mercedes consistently. Combined with Antonelli’s retirement, the result injects fresh excitement into both championship battles.
Formula 1 now heads to the Austrian Grand Prix with momentum shifting toward Ferrari and with Hamilton finally celebrating his first Grand Prix victory in red.
NOW TRENDING
2027 Subaru Ascent Arrives With New Technology And Pricing Starting At $40,795
Subaru has announced pricing and updates for the 2027 Ascent, its flagship three-row SUV designed specifically for growing families and active lifestyles. The latest model introduces new convenience features, additional charging options for passengers and an exclusive new exterior color while maintaining the capability and safety that have helped make the Ascent one of Subaru’s most important vehicles in the United States.
The 2027 Subaru Ascent will arrive at dealerships this summer with a starting MSRP of $40,795.

The 2027 Subaru Ascent arrives with updated technology, enhanced convenience features and pricing starting at $40,795.
Subaru Continues To Focus On Family-Friendly Capability
The Ascent remains Subaru’s largest SUV and continues to offer seating for up to eight passengers depending on configuration.
Every 2027 Ascent is powered by a turbocharged 2.4-liter SUBARU BOXER engine producing 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. Power is delivered through a Lineartronic CVT transmission with an eight-speed manual mode and paddle shifters.
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, X-MODE with Hill Descent Control and up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity help make the SUV suitable for everything from daily commuting to family road trips and outdoor adventures.
New Technology Improves Everyday Convenience
For 2027, Subaru has introduced several updates designed to improve the ownership experience.
A new interior light OFF switch allows drivers to disable door-activated lighting with a single touch, helping reduce disturbances for passengers during nighttime travel.
The Ascent also gains additional USB Type-C charging ports alongside traditional USB-A outlets. The new ports improve charging performance and are located near the third-row seating area, giving passengers easier access to power for smartphones, tablets and other devices.
These updates reinforce Subaru’s focus on practicality and passenger comfort.

The Ascent continues to offer seating for up to eight passengers while maintaining Subaru’s signature all-weather capability.
Safety Remains A Major Strength
Safety continues to be one of the Ascent’s strongest selling points.
The SUV recently earned a 2026 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ award and has now received an IIHS safety recognition for nine consecutive years.
Every trim level comes standard with Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, including a Wide-Angle Mono Camera and Emergency Stop Assist. Additional standard systems include Blind-Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Reverse Automatic Braking and Automatic Emergency Steering.
These technologies help position the Ascent among the safest family SUVs available in the American market.
Multiple Trim Levels Available
The 2027 Subaru Ascent will be offered in Premium, Limited, Limited Bronze Edition, Touring and Onyx Edition Touring trims.
The Premium model starts at $40,795 and includes an 11.6-inch multimedia system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, roof rails and a power rear gate.
Buyers looking for additional luxury can step up to the Limited trim, which adds navigation, a Harman Kardon audio system, Surround View Monitor and upgraded seating features.
The Limited Bronze Edition returns with unique bronze styling accents, while the Touring model introduces Nappa leather upholstery and premium comfort features.
At the top of the range, the Onyx Edition Touring combines the Touring trim’s luxury equipment with distinctive black exterior accents and a sportier appearance.

The 2027 Subaru Ascent is available in several trim levels and continues to target families seeking versatility, safety and all-wheel-drive capability.
New Colors Join The Lineup
Subaru is also expanding the Ascent’s color palette for 2027.
In addition to familiar finishes such as Crystal Black Silica, Ice Silver Metallic and Crystal White Pearl, the SUV now offers Daybreak Blue Pearl and Deepwater Blue Pearl.
The latter is exclusive to the Ascent and gives the three-row SUV a distinctive appearance within Subaru’s lineup.
Built In America For American Families
Like previous generations, the 2027 Subaru Ascent is assembled at Subaru of Indiana Automotive in Lafayette, Indiana.
The plant also produces the Subaru Crosstrek and Forester, reinforcing Subaru’s commitment to manufacturing key models in the United States.
With updated technology, strong safety credentials, standard all-wheel drive and a broad range of trim levels, the 2027 Subaru Ascent continues to strengthen its position as one of the most versatile three-row SUVs available for American families.
INTELLIGENT MOBILITY
Mercedes-AMG Unveils 1,169-HP Electric GT 4-Door Coupe With 600-kW Charging
Mercedes-AMG Launches 1,169-HP Electric GT 4-Door Coupe With 600-kW Charging
Mercedes-AMG has officially opened orders for its most advanced electric performance vehicle to date. The new AMG GT 4-Door Coupe combines extreme power, rapid charging capabilities and next-generation electric technology in a package designed to redefine high-performance driving.
Available as the AMG GT 63 4-Door Coupe and AMG GT 55 4-Door Coupe, the new model introduces several technologies never before seen in a production Mercedes-AMG.
With up to 1,169 horsepower, a top speed of 300 km/h and charging performance that ranks among the fastest in the industry, the four-door coupe represents a major milestone for the AMG brand.

The new Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupe introduces a new era of electric performance with up to 1,169 horsepower and ultra-fast charging technology.
Advanced Axial-Flux Motors Define A New Generation Of Performance
One of the most significant innovations in the new AMG GT is its electric powertrain.
For the first time in a production Mercedes-AMG, engineers have integrated axial-flux electric motors. The vehicle uses three motors in total, with two mounted on the rear axle and one powering the front wheels.
Together, the system produces up to 860 kW, equivalent to an impressive 1,169 horsepower.
Mercedes-AMG says the new motor technology delivers exceptional power density, rapid energy transfer and consistent performance under demanding driving conditions.
The result is an electric vehicle capable of delivering performance levels traditionally associated with exotic supercars.
Exceptional Electric Performance
The performance figures place the AMG GT among the fastest four-door vehicles ever produced by the brand.
Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes only 2.1 seconds, while the sprint to 200 km/h requires just 6.4 seconds.
Customers who choose the optional AMG Driver’s Package can unlock a top speed of 300 km/h.
These figures demonstrate the capability of Mercedes-AMG’s newest electric platform.

Three electric motors, advanced aerodynamics and all-wheel drive help deliver impressive acceleration and high-speed capability.
Charging Technology Sets New Standards
Performance is only part of the story.
Mercedes-AMG has equipped the vehicle with a high-performance battery system capable of accepting charging rates of up to 600 kW.
Under ideal conditions, more than 460 kilometers of driving range can be recovered in just 10 minutes. A charging session from 10 to 80 percent requires approximately 11 minutes.
This combination of performance and charging efficiency helps make the new AMG GT practical for both everyday driving and long-distance journeys.

The electric AMG flagship combines high performance with one of the fastest charging systems available in a production vehicle.
AMG Preserves Its Signature Driving Character
Mercedes-AMG understands that many enthusiasts appreciate the sound and character of the brand’s traditional V8-powered models.
To maintain that connection, engineers developed AMGFORCE S+, a system that recreates key elements of the AMG driving experience through dedicated sound profiles, simulated gear changes and performance-focused digital displays.
The goal is to provide a familiar sense of engagement while embracing the advantages of an advanced electric platform.
Aerodynamics And Software Work Together
Supporting the vehicle’s performance is a collection of active aerodynamic systems and advanced software technologies.
Depending on configuration, the AMG GT can be equipped with active aerodynamic elements integrated into the underbody as well as an active rear diffuser that continuously adapts to changing driving conditions.
Drivers seeking additional capability can select the AMG DYNAMIC PLUS Package, which includes active roll stabilization, Race mode, AMG TRACK PACE and the AMG RACE ENGINEER system.
Together, these technologies help optimize traction, cornering precision and overall vehicle response.

Active aerodynamic systems help maximize efficiency, stability and overall driving performance.
A New Era For AMG Performance
The new Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupe demonstrates how electrification can expand the possibilities of performance vehicles.
With advanced axial-flux motors, up to 1,169 horsepower, ultra-fast charging capability and sophisticated software integration, Mercedes-AMG has created a vehicle that showcases the future direction of the AMG brand.
As Mercedes-AMG continues its transition toward electrified performance, the new GT 4-Door Coupe stands among the most technologically advanced vehicles ever developed by the company.
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