2025 New York International Auto Show Highlights

Some Key Things To See & Do At This Historic Event

by Peter Ciani

For car guys, the first sign of spring isn’t the budding trees or the hummingbirds returning to the Northeast — no, for us, it’s the opening of the New York International Auto Show this weekend at the Jacob K. Javits Center in New York City. The timing of the NYIAS hits right. The weather is finally warming up and making traveling to and around New York City much more enjoyable. It also helps you appreciate the open-top Jeep Wranglers at the show’s Camp Jeep display.

For 2025, the New York Auto Show celebrates its 125th anniversary. The first New York Automobile Show — sponsored at the time by the Automobile Club of America — made its debut at the original Madison Square Garden in November of 1900. A crowd of 48,000 attendees turned up to check out the latest and greatest automobiles from 34 carmakers, showcasing some 160 vehicles in all.

As much as show organizers have worked to keep the spirit of the auto show alive over the years, these days, not as many manufacturers turn out. It would be great to see more automakers return to the event that helped promote them for so long. There were notable absences from brands like Cadillac and Mazda, and scaled-down displays from luxury names such as Audi and Mercedes. It was nice to see them represented, but the show is missing something without the grand displays and new model premieres we used to look forward to.

That said, several brands that were on hand didn’t disappoint. While Nissan, Ford, and Chevrolet didn’t debut any new models, they still put on impressive displays. The same goes for Kia, Hyundai, and, of course, Subaru.

Subaru’s forest theme brilliantly conveys the spirit of the brand, and as usual, they made space for their ‘Subaru Loves Pets’ adoption area. Every year, Subaru partners with local animal shelters, creating a safe space where show attendees can interact with dogs in need of adoption. It’s a great program, and if you follow RPM News Weekly, then you know that I adopted a dog at the 2023 NYIAS, and it worked out great for us.

While the dogs may steal your heart, Subaru stole the show when it came to debuts by introducing 3 new vehicles: the refreshed Subaru Solterra, a redesigned Subaru Outback, and the all-new Subaru Trailseeker.

Kia and Hyundai weren’t about to let Subaru have all the fun. Kia made a big splash with the all-new K4 hatchback, the EV9 Nightfall Edition, and the radical 2026 EV4 sedan. While most automakers are stepping away from sedans and scaling back their EV ambitions, Kia doubled down and said, Nah, we’re gonna do both… in one sporty package. It’s not an exaggeration to say that online reviews of the EV4’s styling are mixed, but you certainly can’t accuse Kia of copying anyone else, and Kia’s estimated 330 miles of range and $37,000 price tag are certain to give vehicles like the Tesla Model 3 some serious competition.

The big news on the Hyundai side is the redesign of the brand’s flagship SUV, the Palisade. The new 2026 Palisade fully embraces the rugged SUV trend, especially with the new XRT PRO model, and the bold vertical LED signature lighting up front also brings a splash of high-tech flair to the updated design.

Meanwhile, the introduction of a Palisade Hybrid model is sure to attract show-goers. The hybrid is expected to deliver up to 329 horsepower and an estimated driving range of 619 miles on a full tank of gas. Not bad for a spacious 3-row SUV. Of course, anyone who’s ever traveled with kids knows you’ll never get that far without stopping, but it’s nice to know you could.

INEOS Arrives On The Scene

If you’re like me, you’re probably thinking what the heck is INEOS? I follow the automotive industry pretty closely, but I’ll admit I hadn’t heard of INEOS Automotive until quite recently, when advertisements started popping up on YouTube. So, I was pleasantly surprised to see the new brand at NYIAS. You’ll find their booth outside the main show in the Crystal Palace, not far from where we here at RPM News Weekly saw the Lucid Air debut for the first time back in… 2017. Good Guwd, it’s been eight years already?

If you’re not familiar with INEOS Automotive, here’s a quick rundown: INEOS is a chemical company founded by billionaire chemical engineer and entrepreneur Jim Ratcliffe. He launched INEOS Automotive in 2017 in the aftermath of Land Rover discontinuing the original Defender. The company’s primary model is the Grenadier, which is named after the London pub where Ratcliffe first pitched the idea of starting an automotive brand.

The concept behind the Grenadier was simple: build a true, utilitarian 4×4 that delivers a more analog driving experience. And it looks like they’ve nailed it.

The Grenadier is offered in two body styles: the Station Wagon (yes, they actually call it that) and the 4-door Quartermaster pickup truck.

INEOS has two display areas at the show. At the time I visited, only the Station Wagon was featured in their main booth, which felt like a missed opportunity, because the pickup is genuinely cool. However, you can check it out if you head down to their second display on Level 1.

Lucid Gravity

I can’t mention Lucid without bringing up the Lucid Gravity. While its official debut didn’t take place at NYIAS, it was still a magnet for attention. This was my first time seeing the Gravity in person, and I can confidently say it didn’t disappoint.

The interior is spacious and comfortable, with thoughtful features and impressive tech throughout. On the outside, it’s sleek and looks more like a chopped hot-rod minivan than a rugged off-road explorer. If you’re not into the rugged design trend seen on vehicles like the new Palisade, the Gravity might be right up your alley.

Go for a ride!

As I mentioned, it’s kind of sad to see manufacturers scaling back their footprints at the major auto shows, but one silver lining is having the extra room inside the respective venues to actually show off cars in action. EV cars in particular.

Even though automakers are slowing down their EV investments, thanks in part to the uncertainty surrounding the current “drill baby drill” administration, there were still plenty of tire-squealing, stomach-churning launches to experience at the EV test track. Getting people behind the wheel is one of the best ways to drive EV adoption, and the lineup at the EV Test Track didn’t disappoint. GM made a strong showing with the Chevrolet Blazer EV, Equinox EV, along with Cadillac’s full EV SUV lineup, while Ford brought out the F-150 Lightning and the Mustang Mach-E.

Thanks to GM and Ford, we’ve had a fair amount of seat time in several of their EVs, and we can confidently say they’re worth a look. But there were a few models at the show that we hadn’t yet had the chance to ride in, let alone drive. Standouts include the VW ID. Buzz, the Wagoneer S, and the Dodge Charger Daytona.

Everyone knows the Charger Daytona is a bit controversial. An EV aimed at the muscle car crowd was always going to be a bold move. But after taking a ride, I’ve warmed up to it. If you’re heading out to the show, be sure to take a blast, and let us know what you think.

Camp Jeep

Okay, so an EV muscle car isn’t your thing. How about conquering a 45-degree incline in a 470-horsepower, HEMI-powered 392 Wrangler?

Camp Jeep is a staple of the NYIAS. It’s the first thing you see when you walk up to the Javits Center, and as expected, the site of Jeeps off-roading in the heart of the city always draws a crowd from passersby.

If you’re a Jeep owner or thinking about becoming one, Camp Jeep is a great place to experience what these vehicles are truly capable of. The course puts Jeeps through their paces with tests for ground clearance, traction, stability, articulation, breakover, and off-camber angles. Plus, staring straight up at skyscrapers while climbing a 28-foot “mountain” is a bit of a mind-bending experience.

Ford Bronco Off Roadeo Adventure

Not to be outdone, Ford also has their own Bronco playground, aka demo course. While not as large in scale as Camp Jeep, the Bronco course has its own unique obstacles, including a teeter-totter and a rock crawl obstacle, which highlights how good the Bronco is on rugged terrain.

The 2025 New York International Auto Show runs from April 18th to the 27th at the Javits Convention Center. Check out the NYIAS website for more details.

10 Fun, Innovative and Practical Automotive-Themed Gift Ideas on Amazon.com

Christmas ideas From RPM News Weekly

‘Twas a month before Christmas, but have you got,
That gift for your loved one, who likes cars a lot;
Lucky you there’s a website with plenty for buy‘n,
But you’d better act quickly ’cause time it’s a flying.

Most gifts have free shipping and yeah that is great,
But you’d best pay attention to the order-by date;
Because, though it’s convenient to order online,
Wait too long and they’ll get it on December 29.

Okay, folks, it’s that time of year again—Cyber Monday has kicked the holiday shopping season into high gear!

That’s why we’ve scoured the enormous digital superstore called Amazon to find everyone 10 cool, funny, or (yuk) practical gifts for that automotive enthusiast in your life. Regular prices are shown, but some items might be on sale this week!

Just so you know, RPM News Weekly Earns From Qualifying Purchases as an Amazon Associate.

In the spirit of the Holidays, let’s start with some fun items

#1

Gear Shift Hoodie

$6.99 On Amazon (#ad)

Whether you’re a moody teenager or an esteemed Senator from Pennsylvania, hoodies are all the fashion rage these days. With this stylish nylon Gear Shift Hoodie your gear shifter will be appropriately dressed for an incognito mission to Walgreens or a debate with John Fetterman on the Senate floor.

Even though we’re joking a bit, this does have a practical purpose. Shifters can get quite cold. If you’ve ever driven a manual shift car with a metal shifter in a cold weather state then you know what we’re saying.

#2

Macally Cup Holder Tray

$29.99 On Amazon (#ad)

Thank goodness, someone finally invented a burger / cell phone organizer combo. To some folks, this may underscore the sad state of the human race at the moment, but lots of people do drive for a living and many of those people eat on the go. So why not tune into your favorite streaming service as you eat?

#3

Adult Automotive Activity Book for The Car Enthusiast

$10.10 on Amazon (#ad)

File this one under, “Damn…why didn’t I think of that?”

Automotive fans, don’t sit around wasting time on boring ol’ Sudoku this winter, instead. You can spend time searching for automotive terms in Wordsearch or matching automotive events to their respective dates in history with this 68-page, fun-filled automotive activity book.

#4

PULIDIKI Car Cleaning Gel

$8.99 on Amazon (#ad)

Nothing says Merry Christmas like a jar of blue goo… Right?

Maybe some crumbs spilled from your burger-slash-phone organizer and stuck in your shift boot. Or perhaps you’re the type who finds contentment deep-cleaning your ride each weekend. Either way, PULIDIKI Car Cleaning Gel is a handy way to remove dirt and dust from the tight crevices in your car’s interior.

The gel is reusable – and if you are wondering how well it works it currently has a 4.1 out of 5-star rating on Amazon with over 78,000 ratings.

#5

HORUSDAY Magnetic Wristband & Universal Socket Grip

$9.99 On Amazon (#ad)

A few weeks ago, one of our staff was in the garage rebuilding the carburetor on an old Ford Econoline. Somehow they managed to lose a tiny e-clip. After looking all around the shop, it was nowhere to be found.

Perhaps if this handy magnetic wristband had been in use, the long-lost e-clip would not be so long lost.

But besides its use in the garage, the magnetic wristband also is a great way to hold extra drill bits or screws when doing home improvement projects.

#6

Wagan 6 Quart Portable Electric Cooler/Warmer with 12/24V DC, Small Fridge.

$69.58 On Amazon (#ad)

Do you know someone who has always wanted one of those fancy SUVs with a refrigerator but didn’t want to spend $$$ on fancy a SUV? This small fridge could be the gift they’ve been waiting for.

Able to cool to 36°F below ambient temperature or warm to ≈140 °F using a vehicle’s DC plugin, it’s the perfect way to save money on road trips by taking snacks and drinks with you.

#7

SINSEN Car Safety Hammer, 2-Pack Window Glass Breaker & Seatbelt Cutter

$11.99 On Amazon (#ad)

No one expects to be in an accident – that’s why they are called accidents. Not to be a downer, but one never knows if they’ll find themselves in a situation where they’ll need to cut themselves out of their seatbelt or break a window to escape. This spring-loaded window breaker can break a window even underwater.
At $11.99, this 2-pack could be the bargain gift you thought you’d never find. Give one to all of your family members, it’s cheap insurance.

#8

Everlit Survival Car Emergency Kit

$64.95 On Amazon (#ad)

While we are on the subject of safety, here’s one item that every vehicle should have: an emergency kit packed with all the essentials one might need in a roadside emergency. If you’ve got young drivers, an emergency kit like this is a must-have. Whether you buy an emergency kit like this or already have one, be sure to teach your kids what each item is and how to use them.

#9

Next Level Racing F-GT Racing Simulator Cockpit.

$499.99 On Amazon (#ad)

Why couldn’t we have stuff like this when we were kids?

Okay, we admit that we’re adding this one in the hopes that our spouses read this.

Kids of all ages (not just our staff wannabes) can build themselves a cool gaming platform with this gift. This base model includes a high-quality racing seat and is compatible with most gaming systems. Next Level offers a variety of add-ons, including gear shifters, seat sliders, and seatbelts — yes, seatbelts on a driving simulator. Check out their Amazon store for more.

#10

BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro OBDII Scan Tool for iPhone & Android

$79.95 On Amazon (#ad)

Anyone who tinkers with modern cars needs to have a good OBD2 scanner to diagnose problems like a pro. The BlueDriver Bluetooth Pro can read and clear codes on any car sold after 1996.

Besides reading codes, this scanner can also show real-time data and provides codes for Antilock brakes (ABS), tire pressure monitors (TPMS), and Airbag systems. Not all scan tools do this, which is why the Bluedriver is worth the extra money verses the plug-in types that you can buy at auto parts stores.

We hope that we’ve given you a few good last minute shopping ideas for both car enthusiasts on your list and anyone else. But you better hurry.

And, Merry Christmas to all and to all a good…eh, you know the rest.

Honda Prologue Elite Is Not To Be Confused With Acura ZDX Type S

by Rich Taber

It would be easy to jump to the conclusion that the all-new 2024 Honda Prologue and its platform mate, the 2024 Acura ZDX are essentially variations of the same mid size SUV. Both are all-electric vehicles co-developed with General Motors utilizing the automaker’s Ultium battery platform and BEV3 architecture, and they do share many features.

Take a step back, though. While the Prologue and the ZDX do tend to look somewhat similar – especially if you squint – there are enough differences to accept their individualities. That’s particularly true if you compare their top-end trims – the Prologue Elite and the ZDX Type S.

combined photos of Acura ZDX Type S (top) / Honda Prologue Elite (bottom) — Prologue Elite

The Road Ahead

RPM News Weekly recently had the opportunity to test drive both models during a Honda sponsored road trip that took us to upstate New York to a hamlet appropriately named Accord (local pronunciation is apparently a bit different than the pronunciation of the well-known Honda vehicle). I drove there on a Monday in the Prologue Elite, some 250 miles or so. (More on that in a bit.)

Then, after a nights rest, I gathered with a group of journalists and fashionistas on Tuesday to bop around the mountain roads in variants of both the Prologue Elite and ZDX Type S, as well as a new 2025 Civic Hybrid. In between drives there was a unique Motocompacto motorbike from Honda to try out around the parking area, too.

On Wednesday after breakfast, I loaded myself and travel bag into a cosmic black ZDX Type S fitted with summer performance tires and headed home on an alternative route that included a lengthy stretch of rigorous driving along mountainous backroads west of the Hudson River.

One thing that became clearly evident to me after those three days is that either one of these vehicles makes long distance travel in an EV not only practical, but enjoyable, too. Just saying that seems totally corny to me at this stage of EV development. I’m certainly not the first one to take an EV on a long road trip, nor was this my first such adventure. It’s just that it still seems that the idea has to be constantly reinforced that a long trip in an EV actually can be accomplished. There is so much range anxiety still at large in the public mind.

Anyway, Honda/Acura have certainly made long road trips easier with these two models. The Prologue Elite AWD has an EPA estimated range of 273 miles, while the ZDX Type S is rated at 278 miles.

On The Road

When I started out Monday afternoon on the above described road trip, the charge in the scarlett red metallic Prologue Elite that I would drive had been almost fully topped off, so the 238 mile route I had mapped out to Accord, NY would leave me with 35 miles (estimated) available at the end if I didn’t charge up somewhere on the way. My contact at Honda suggested charging up in Kingston, NY just before I got to Accord, so that the vehicle would be ready to go in the morning for test drives in the mountains.

I could have driven to Kingston, NY to charge up as planned, but I encountered rain in the Berkshires and thought it was prudent to charge up sooner since rain always eats up fuel more quickly no matter if it’s gasoline or electric. So, I diverted to Albany which added some miles (as well as time) to the trip, but kept me in my comfort zone for making the journey without unnecessary stress because of the weather.

The onboard Google Assistant technology, a first for Honda, made the whole process of redirecting to Albany and finding a charger very easy, and it even preconditioned the battery so that charging went a bit faster. In the end I arrived in Accord with 141 miles remaining on the charge.

The next day, once everyone began driving loops in the nearby countryside, I first took a turn as passenger in a grey Prologue Elite. My driver was a journalist from WAPA, (Washington, D.C. Area Press Association). Having the passenger perspective gave me a better chance to evaluate some of the onboard features and discover what I missed in the details while focused on driving the day before.

Two important things came from that: 1) the faint whoop, whoop I had been hearing at below 24 mph on my drive the day before was not isolated to the vehicle I had been driving. It’s a sound the vehicle automatically generates to alert pedestrians of the oncoming EV since it makes very little noise while in motion; 2) the reason I couldn’t find a physical switch to control the exterior lights is because the control is on the center touchscreen display at the top.

Also, it turns out that Prologue’s 11.3-inch center display and basically the entire center console climate and accessories controls are virtually identical to that in the ZDX (minus some minor stylistic changes).

The ride, however, even though smooth and comfortable as I had learned the day before, was clearly not as luxurious as what I would find in the ZDX Type S. Not anything to complain about for sure, and definitely competitive with its peers in the segment at its price point, but as I soon discovered in the ZDX Type S, it’s a whole different world.

Not only is the drive quieter in the ZDX (unless you’ve turned on the artificial performance noise), the whole experience is managed better whether it’s the suspension, steering or braking. Here’s why according to Acura.

“ZDX Type S is the best-performing Acura SUV ever, with a dual-motor all-wheel drive system delivering nearly 500 horsepower, 6-piston Brembo front brakes, air suspension and adaptive dampers.” ~ Acura Media

Make that 499 horsepower and 544 lb.-ft. of torque to be exact. Even the entry-level ZDX A-Spec RWD trim kicks, offering up 358 horsepower and 324 lb.-ft. of torque.

Meanwhile, output in the Prologue Elite checks in at a respectable 288 horsepower with its dual motor AWD system. EX and Touring trims come standard with a FWD setup that provides 212 hp and 236 lb.-ft. of torque. Good but definitely not in ZDX territory.

A couple more things that pop out if you go side by side down their respective Monroney stickers. With the ZDX Type S, Acura introduces hands-free driver assistance technology to its lineup. Called AcuraWatch 360+, it comes standard on the ZDX Type S and includes 36 months of free service but will ultimately require an OnStar subscription. Also, the ZDX’s 18 speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system delivers a sound experience that the Prologue’s 12-speaker Bose system can’t match.

My drive back home in the ZDX Type S with performance tires only solidified my earlier observations. Driving along steep mountain roads for the first twenty miles or so offered an exciting range of handling challenges including switchbacks, blind turns, quick speed variations, a one lane bridge overpass and a few speed-tempting open stretches. The ZDX Type S proved to be a good friend throughout.

Having started out from Accord with a nearly full charge and taking a very non-direct route that wound through Poughkeepsie, down the Taconic Parkway, across Connecticut to Hartford then northeast to the Mass Turnpike, I managed to get to within 60 miles of home when I figured it was advisable to charge up. No fuss – Google Assistant found me a fast charger on the way, I just plugged in, charged up, and drove away twenty minutes later.

Claremont Police Department Gets An Environmentally-Friendly New Ride

The Claremont Police Department in Claremont, NH, took a significant step towards an all-electric future with a generous donation from their local Ford dealership.

by Peter Ciani

The Claremont Police Department in Claremont, NH, took a significant step towards an all-electric future with a generous donation from their local Ford dealership.

Ford of Claremont’s Christian Gomes presented the all-electric Ford F-150 Lightning Pro SSV pickup truck, the first of its kind to be delivered in the Northeast.

Gomes, a former NYPD officer turned car dealer, has already donated three vehicles to the department since opening his Ford franchise in the city, including a Ford Interceptor Utility Vehicle, Ford Interceptor Hybrid Utility Vehicle, and a Harley Davidson motorcycle.

2021 Ford Police Interceptor & Harley Davidson Motorcycle donated by Ford of Claremont.

Ford has built a rich and enduring legacy in the police car industry dating back to the early 1900s. The new F-150 Lightning Pro SSV seamlessly melds Ford’s latest EV technology with its decades of fleet vehicle experience.

Police departments all across the country have consistently favored Ford vehicles for their power, price, and reliability. Consequently, the automaker has played a significant role in mobilizing the nation’s police departments, whether it was with Model T paddy wagon conversions or the evolutionary 1950 Ford sedan and ubiquitous Crown Victoria. As law enforcement needs evolved, Ford continued to adapt and innovate, contributing to the development of purpose-built police cruisers as we know them today.

After the retirement of the long-running Crown Victoria, many police departments gradually transitioned to the Ford Explorer-based Police Interceptor Utility which offered a more comfortable ride, improved fuel efficiency, and better all-weather performance.

In 2020, the redesigned Interceptor Utility received a significant update, adopting a rear-wheel-drive-biased chassis that improved handling and increased interior space.

The Redesigned 2020 Police Interceptor Utility features a standard Hybrid powertrain.
Photo: Ford Media

However, the most notable change for the 2020 Interceptor was the introduction of a standard Hybrid powertrain. Hybrid technology represented a big step toward more environmentally-friendly police patrol vehicles. At the time Ford estimated that the pursuit-rated hybrid police utility would save departments between $3,500 and $5,700 per year in fuel costs. Hybrid power in a police car makes a ton of sense, especially considering how much time these vehicles spend idling either on the side of the road or while on a call.

RPM News was on hand to test drive the Interceptor Utility when It made its debut. (See video.)

With states heading toward strict emissions regulations and EV mandates it’s only logical that the next evolution of the police car will be a move toward gas-free, battery-electric vehicles. That’s where the Ford F-150 Lighting Pro SSV comes in.

Introduced last year as a special service variant of the popular all-electric Lightning pickup, the Lightning Pro SSV was designed to handle specialized departmental needs outside of pursuit situations according to Ford.

Having driven a few Lightning models, I can honestly say that I don’t believe pursuit would be a problem, especially considering that the Lightning Pro SSV is offered with 452 and 580 horsepower powertrain options, both delivering up to 775 pound-feet of torque.

Police-specific interior upgrades include heavy-duty cloth seats with reduced bolsters for easy entry and exit and built-in steel intrusion plates in the front seat backs to protect against someone stabbing through the seat. The interior also features easy-to-clean rear vinyl seats and vinyl flooring.

(Left) Lightning Pro SSV with added police equipment; (Right) Police-Spec cloth seats

Mechanically there isn’t much that needs to be upgraded for police duty. Gone are the days of upgraded heavy-duty suspensions and larger V8 power plants with factory dual exhausts.

Like the civilian F-150 Lightning, the F-150 Lightning Pro SSV is offered with standard and extended-range battery packs, delivering between 240 and 320 miles on a full charge. The Lightning’s mega handy, Mega Power Frunk also carries over to the Lightning Pro SSV.

Claremont Police Chief Brent Wilmont shakes hands with Christian Gomes from Ford of Claremont.

During the hand-off at the dealership, Claremont Police Chief Brent Wilmont candidly admitted his initial skepticism when Christian Gomes pitched the idea of donating an all-electric vehicle to the department. Chief Wilmont recalled, “I think it was about a year ago when Chris came to me and said he was interested in donating an electric car to our fleet. I think I laughed at him the first time. I said, “An electric car in a police fleet? I don’t know how I feel about that.””

Chief Wilmont’s reaction reflects common concerns about the feasibility and performance of electric vehicles in law enforcement, but thankfully he was open-minded enough to learn a bit about the Lightning before dismissing the idea altogether and was eventually won over by its all-electric performance.

“The first time that he and I took it for a ride I was blown away, quite literally blown away. I’ve never driven a vehicle that has so much power as this thing does, but on top of power it’s utterly silent and environmentally friendly, there’s so many benefits to it.” Wilmont said.

Ford of Claremont also contributed to the costs of outfitting and the addition of a level 2 charger at the station.

Matchbox Goes Green: The ICE vs. EV Battle Comes to 1:64 Scale

As the life-size electric vehicle competition is beginning to heat up, Mattel toys recently announced that their popular Matchbox series will be bringing the ICE versus EV battle to the 1:64 scale.

by Peter Ciani for RPM News Weekly ~

As the life-size electric vehicle competition heats up, Mattel toys recently announced that their popular Matchbox series will be bringing the ICE versus EV battle to the 1:64 scale.

One could assume that a small toy car with no engine is pretty much eco-green already, but you’d be wrong. Sure the cars themselves aren’t very big, but when you factor in how many are sold each year plus the packaging and numerous playsets that are available, the amount of plastic that’s being produced really starts to add up.

The goal that Mattel recently laid out in their product roadmap is to use recyclable materials in making all die-cast cars, playsets, and packaging. This includes the use of 100% recycled, recyclable or bio-based plastics by 2030, and it falls in line with the company’s overall goal to do the same across all of its product lines.

The goal of using more sustainable packaging is not a new idea for Mattel. In 2011 the brand announced a commitment to using mostly sustainably sourced paper and wood fiber across their entire business – including product packaging. The company now uses 93 percent recycled or sustainable wood fibers in their packaging and products, exceeding their 2018 goal of 90 percent.

**Mattel aims to use 100% sustainable materials in Matchbox Packaging.**
*Photo: Mattel*

Even though Mattel’s plans to go green are a company-wide initiative, there’s more to the story than eco-friendly packaging. It’s also about education, for which the company sees the Matchbox brand being uniquely positioned to educate and inspire children about the importance of eco-conscious behavior and eco-friendly transportation. Matchbox has been inspiring children to play with cars since 1953.

**The Matchbox EV** **Car Lineup Underscores Changing Perspectives.**
*Photo: Mattel*

Calling it inspiration through representation, Matchbox plans to expand the presence of electric and hybrid cars across their product lineup saying, “Kids drive their adventures with authentic Matchbox® die-cast vehicles, including the electric and hybrid vehicles they see on the roads every day. We are increasing the representation of such vehicles in our product line, while also integrating eco-conscious behaviors and themes into our large vehicles and playsets, such as our Matchbox Recycling Truck and the recent Matchbox Action Drivers™ Fuel Station, which includes an EV charging station.”

Of course, what better way to kick off this new green initiative, than the long-awaited (in real life) Tesla Roadster. The special edition Matchbox Tesla Roadster will be made of 99% recycled materials and will go on sale in 2022, which ironically could beat the real Tesla version to market. Collectors likely will snatch these miniature Tesla Roadsters up in no time, just like the real-world counterpart.

**How Green is the special Tesla Roadster?**
*Photo: Mattel*

Mattel’s Tesla Roadster will come encased in the new Matchbox plastic-free packaging as seen in the brand’s PowerGrabs line.

**Matchbox PowerGrabs Car Line features plastic-free packaging.**
*Photo: Mattel*

Curiously, Matchbox claims that its PowerGrabs packaging is the first Matchbox product to feature 100% plastic-free packaging. Technically, that’s incorrect considering its original toy car packaging was indeed a paper matchbox, or at least a simulation one. The familiar plastic blister packs didn’t make their debut until sometime in the 1980s.

Mattel made no mention of the car lineup from Hot Wheels – Matchbox’s chief rival that also happens to be owned by Mattel. Since this is a company-wide initiative, it’s safe to assume that Hot Wheels will eventually follow suit, but for now, to borrow a popular slogan from Hot Wheels, it appears that Matchbox will be “leading the way” on this.

Nissan “Dream Garage” Panel at NYIAS

CarCast’s Matt D’Andria chats up the 50th Anniversary GT-R and 370Z with Nissan’s Hiroshi Tamura and BRE’s founder Peter Brock at the 2019 NYIAS.

Hosted by:
• CarCast’s Matt ‘The Motorator’ D’Andria
Featuring:
• BRE’s Peter Brock
• Nissan’s Hiroshi Tamura

Uncut, Recorded Live 4/17/19