• P.M. Carney suspends federal fuel excise tax (for now)
• Highlights from Truck World 2026 show
• What constitutes a truck in 2026?
• Singer Micah Barnes hits the road
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PUBLISHER
Robert Alfers rob@autoatlantic.com
EDITOR
Carter Hammett carter@autoatlantic.com
IT MANAGER
Tyler Graves tyler@autoatlantic.com
ART DIRECTOR
Nicole Shadbolt
CONTRIBUTORS
Carter Hammett
Jeremy Woolward
Oscar Collins
Tim Terry
Sana Fatemi
Rohit Narayan Sholingur
Zachary Perlmutter
Kristen Lipscombe
IMAGES VIA Unsplash Magnific Respective Articles
atlantic.com auto & trucking
Volume Three • Issue 3
Page 4 Editor’s letter
Gentle folk start your engines! Your editor introduces the racing issue that was.
Page 7 Contributors this issue ..next issue you could...
Page 21 Women and wheels
One of the biggest hurdles in truck maintainence is wear-and-tear from heavy use. Here are some tips to get you started.
Page 26 Electric avenue
Our columnist argues that while the pace of EV adoption has been positively glacial, this variable, among many other solutions, needs to accelerate if it’s to truly bring about positive change.
Page 28 News of the weird
Ontario guy nearly becomes a turkey dinner, tune in to learn more.
Page 30 Motor matters
Canada’s largest automotive manufacturers form new association • more!
Page 34 The Atlantic road report
Ernie Hudson named P.E.I. transportation, infrastructure and energy minister.
Page 39 Stars in cars
Former Nylons singer Micah Barnes hits the road with new autobiographical show.
Features:
Trends 2026
Page 8 Motorsports makes a home in the Maritimes
It looks like Atlantic Canada is shaping up once again to being a hotbed of stock car and motorsports action from May- to- October. Here’s the lowdown on what to expect this summer… By Tim Terry.
Page 12 Highlights from Truck World 2026
Rohit Narayan Sholingur intrepid reporter showcases top trucking trends for 2026.
Page 16 Beyond horsepower: What constitutes a truck in 2026?
Auto & Trvucking Atlantic is published digitally by Robert Alfers. For advertising rates or information regarding Auto & Trucking Atlantic, please contact us at: rob@autoatlantic.com
Tel: 902.452.0345
Mail: 608 - 56 Jacob Lane Bedford, NS B3M 0H5, Canada
Writer Jeremy Woolward asks a fundamental question; What your truck can do for you.
Page 22 Family, friends and fun
Maritime Car Wash proves that passion for people is great business, by Kristen Lipscombe
Page 25 The highway symphony:
Federal government offers temporary fuel tax reprieve that coincides with the beginning of spring, writes Sana Fatemi
Start your engines!
By Carter Hammett
As the days grow longer and the chill of winter fades into memory, there’s a familiar energy building across Atlantic Canada—one that can only mean racing season is just around the corner. Welcome to the May edition of Auto and Trucking Atlantic, where we lean into that excitement and celebrate the machines, people, and passions that keep our region moving.
This month’s feature takes readers trackside with a comprehensive preview of the 2026 racing season across the Maritimes, penned by none other than Tim Terry. Tim has been covering Atlantic Canada’s racing scene for as long as many of us can remember, and his insight is as sharp as ever. From grassroots short tracks to marquee events that draw fans from across the region, his preview captures not only what to watch for this season, but why it matters. Whether you’re a longtime follower of the sport or someone considering your first visit to the track, Tim’s perspective is the perfect place to start.
Racing in Atlantic Canada isn’t just a pastime—it’s part of the cultural fabric.
Maritimers have a deep-rooted connection to motorsports, one that spans generations and communities. You’ll find it in the packed grandstands on a Saturday night, the hum of engines echoing through small towns, and the stories shared between fans who’ve been coming back year after year. There’s something uniquely communal about race day here: families loading up the car, friends gathering early to claim their favorite viewing spots, and the shared anticipation as engines roar to life.
For many, summer simply wouldn’t be complete without at least a few trips to the track. It’s where memories are made—where kids become lifelong fans, and where the line between driver and spectator feels just a little bit closer. In a region known for its strong sense of community, racing offers a space where that spirit thrives. It’s not just about competition; it’s about connection, tradition, and the thrill of being part of something bigger than yourself.
Beyond the racetrack, this issue also shifts gears into the world of trucking with a special section dedicated to
one of the industry’s biggest events, Truck World 2026. Our coverage dives into the trends shaping the future of trucking, from the rapid push toward electrification to the increasing role of connectivity and smart technologies in fleet operations. These aren’t distant concepts—they’re developments that are already beginning to reshape how goods move across our region and beyond.
We also take a closer look at the top five trucks of 2026, highlighting the models that are setting new standards in performance, efficiency, and innovation. Whether you’re an owner-operator, fleet manager, or simply someone with an appreciation for the engineering behind these machines, there’s plenty here to explore. The trucking industry continues to evolve at a remarkable pace, and this section offers a snapshot of where it’s headed next.
Of course, no issue of Auto and Trucking Atlantic would be complete without our Stars in Cars feature, where we sit down with notable personalities to talk about their connection to the road. This month, we’re pleased to profile acclaimed jazz singer Micah Barnes, who will be bringing his tour to Atlantic Canada this summer. Known for his smooth vocals and engaging stage presence, Micah shares his thoughts on touring, travel, and the role that cars and highways play in the life of a performing artist. It’s a conversation that blends music and motoring in a way our readers have come to love.
As always, our goal is to bring you closer to the stories that drive Atlantic Canada—on the track, on the road, and everywhere in between. Whether you’re here for the roar of engines, the latest industry insights, or the human stories behind the wheel, we’re glad to have you along for the ride.
Enjoy the issue, and we’ll see you at the track.
This issue we were....
Carter Hammett, Editor
Toronto writer Carter Hammett has been the editor of Auto and Trucking Atlantic for the past 17 years. His writing has appeared in the Toronto Sun, Ottawa Citizen and Convenience and Carwash Canada among many other publications. View his work at: https://authory.com/CarterHammett
Zachary Perlmutter
Zachary is a blogger and writer who graduated university with a doublemajor in humanities and English at York University in 2014. He’s currently in the process of working on a novel, and he enjoys sharing his thoughts on obscure trivia in various subjects.
Jeremy Woolward
Employed as a fleet safety & human resource manager for a commercial motor carrier in Calgary, Alberta.
Sana Fatemi
Writer and editor with a deep love for storytelling and the literary world. With experience in both writing and editing across various publications, she enjoys shaping narratives, refining language, and bringing ideas to life on the page.
Rohit Narayan Sholingur
An emerging writer with a focus on storytelling that connects culture, society, film, media and technology. He brings a fresh perspective shaped by curiosity and a keen eye for detail.
Kristen Lipscombe
Kristen is a freelance journalist and communications specialist with more than 20 years of experience locally, provincially, nationally and even internationally. She believes that everyone has a story and loves helping others tell them. She’s a writer at heart.
Oscar Collins
Founder
of modded.com
Tim Terry is “the voice of Maritime racing” and the mover and shaker of https:// timscorner.ca which operates as the central hub for all things racing in Atlantic Canada.
Motorsports makes a home in the Maritimes
By Tim Terry
It looks like Atlantic Canada is shaping up once again to being a hotbed of stock car and motorsports action from May- to- October. Here’s the lowdown on what to expect this summer…
The 2026 Maritime racing season is upon us!
There is a lot to be excited about as the ice melts and teams prepare their cars for the upcoming year. What do race fans in the region have to look forward to? In short – lots!
NOVA SCOTIA
In Nova Scotia, four paved and one dirt oval have plans to provide racing action in 2026. The two anchors, Scotia Speedworld and Riverside International Speedway, have similar schedules to previous seasons. In Halifax, Scotia Speedworld has slight changes to their schedule but their marquee events return. The Bay Equipment Rentals Weekly Racing Series kicks off Saturday, May 16 they will end their point season on Friday, September 25 and officially close their season with the Fourth Annual Halifax 300 on Saturday, October 10. The “300” moves back to Thanksgiving weekend this season with previous schedule changes throughout the region pushing several events back a week on the calendar. Scotia Speedworld boasted healthy
car counts in 2025, including a boom in Mini Stock competitors with over 60 drivers taking at least one lap around the 3/10-mile oval last season. The final Enduro event of the season saw over 70 drivers register and that division will see four races scattered throughout 2026. In addition to the four Fort Garry Industries Pro Stock Tour events at the track this season, three track hosted Pro Stock races will also take place throughout the calendar.
Key dates on their schedule include the Summer Clash 250 weekend presented by Superior Foundation and
Atlantic Tiltload from August 6 -to- 8, FANFEST on June 5, the Shriners Classic for Sportsman on June 12, Fuelling Change: A Celebration of Women in Motorsports on July 10 and Thunder on the Hill on September 4.
Riverside International Speedway is capitalizing on the popular Enduro division with a big money show for the entry level class on Saturday, May 30 featuring $3,000 to win. The James River, Nova Scotia track plays host to the biggest motorsports event of the year in Atlantic Canada, the IWK 250 Super Race Weekend from July 15-to- 18 with the IWK 250 presented by Steve Lewis taking place on Saturday, July 18.
The NASCAR Canada Series and the Fort Garry Industries Pro Stock Tour share the card on Saturday, June 27 on the high banks. The Matt Minglewood Band will play a pre-race concert on Friday, June 26. In total, the track will host racing events on five weekends featuring several of the top racing divisions and tours in the region.
Something that began at Speedway 660 that Riverside International Speedway has picked up in recent years is that kids aged 15- and- under are admitted to each event free- of- charge! To my knowledge, these are the only two
tracks in Atlantic Canada that do this.
Lake Doucette Motor Speedway and Bud’s Speedway bookend the province with racing action. Lake Doucette, outside of Yarmouth, has stock car racing hosted by the Southwest Stock Car Association every two weeks beginning on Sunday, June 14 when the Heart of a Champion Hot Rod Classics powered by Kimco visit the track to honour Paul Morris in the annual Christie’s Classic. For a third year, their season finale is a double header full of racing action on September 19- and- 20.
On the other end of Nova Scotia, Bud’s Speedway in Sydney roars back to action in June. Their season opener takes place on Saturday, June 13. The track will host two Wednesday night races on August 12 and September 16. Their two biggest shows anchor their season with the second annual Redneck Wreckfest on Saturday, September 26 and the Caper Memorial Weekend on October 16- and- 17.
The big news from the Annapolis Valley was that Greg Banks was closing Valley Raceway. Just as this issue goes to press, a group called the Valley Red Dirt Racers Association has struck a deal to produce racing on the oval in 2026. The group is the third to try and make racing work at the Melvern Square oval and we look forward to seeing what comes out of it.
NEW BRUNSWICK
Speedway 660, Petty International Raceway and R&R Speedway offer oval racing action in New Brunswick this year. All three tracks are running partial schedules, with Speedway 660 and Petty Raceway fielding heavier schedules than R&R Speedway.
Petty International Raceway, outside of River Glade, begins their schedule with a double header weekend on the Victoria Day Long Weekend in May. The Saturday, May 16 show has the EasyKleen Super Late Model Series as the main attraction with a Monday, May 18 card also bringing the action to life from a long winter. In all, Petty Raceway will host 16 race dates from May to September with the 13th Annual Mike Stevens Memorial Weekend being the big show from September 16- to- 19.
Speedway 660 in Geary opens their season on Saturday, May 16 with the first of six Enduro events and the next weekend on May 23 with the Riverview Ford Lincoln Season Opener for stock cars. The Ricky Bobby 150 for Street Stocks will race to the track on Saturday, June 27, SpeedWeekend 2026 takes place from September 4to- 6 with the stock car season finale the next weekend on Saturday, September 12. The Enduro finale will race on Saturday, October 17. Those are just the highlights on an 18 event schedule in 2026.
R&R Speedway in Miramichi, under new ownership in 2025 and under the watchful eye of Manager Glen Sherrard, opens on June 6 and features a healthy mix of stock cars, demolition, enduros, burnouts and tough trucks from June- to- October. Their marquee events include the Firecracker 50 for Bombers on July 25, the popular Figure 8 Trailer Race on September 12, the Very Best Fall Shootout on October 3 and the Halloween Spooktacular on October 24.
River Glade Speedway, which had been resurrected by Gary McLean and his crew in 2024 and had run several races the last two seasons, has no scheduled races in 2026. Over the Fall, a fire happened on the property, compromising the facilities hydro grid. While we anticipate seeing racing at the Centre For Speed outside of Shediac, there is no racing schedule posted as of press time.
PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND
Prince Edward Island’s only paved stock car oval, Oyster Bed Speedway outside of Oyster Bed Bridge, has presented another busy schedule. The season roars to life on Saturday, May 17 and will see 11 race dates, closing on Monday, September 7 with an eight division Labour Day Finale. The RE/ MAX Rumble for Outlaw Four Cylinders (June 20) and the 16th Annual Piston Cup Street Stock 100 (August 22) are highlights on the calendar. The track also hosts most of the major touring series in the region throughout the summer.
NEWFOUNDLAND
Over in Newfoundland, changes abound at Eastbound Park on the stock car side. The only NASCARsanctioned local racing series track in Atlantic Canada will shift several races to Saturday evenings from Sunday afternoons and see several rule changes
and purse increases in some of their divisions in hopes of bringing back car counts to the Avondale track. Their eight- race schedule begins on Sunday, May 17 and wraps up on Saturday evening, September 19.
When it comes to touring series, the Fort Garry Industries Pro Stock Tour continues to lead the way as a fan favorite in the region. Entering their 26th season, they return for 10 races in 2026 with Ashton Tucker from Miramichi, N.B. as the reigning and defending champion. While the championship title will be hotly contested, three rookies join the series and may be the ultimate battle to watch with Colton Noble, Ayden Christensen and Owen Mahar racing for top freshman honours in 2026. Riverside International Speedway, Petty International Raceway, Oyster Bed Speedway and Scotia Speedworld host races on the series, with the latter hosting the opener on May 23 and the championship finale on September 26.
The Easy-Kleen Super Late Model Series saw Tanton Wooldridge and 01 Motorsports pick up their first touring series title in 2025 and are sure to be the benchmark on their series in 2026. The six- race series begins- and- ends at Petty International Raceway with stops in between at Speedway 660 and Oyster Bed Speedway.
INEX Racing has two tours in the Maritimes with the PiccottCare Maritime League of Legends Tour and the TCM Bandolero Road Trip. The Legends, with new title sponsor PiccottCare, races at some of the region’s biggest weekends with 11 races on their season at five different tracks. The Bandoleros race at four events at four different race tracks in their second official Tour around the Maritimes.
The Heart of a Champion Hot Rod Classics powered by Kimco has the most diverse schedule of any stock car racing touring series with seven races as seven different tracks. Featuring classic looks and old school stock car names and liveries, the series thrills fans young and young at heart from June- to- October.
Several other touring series, including the Atlantic Modified Tour and the Maritime All Stars Series Sportsman, also bring their unique brand of entertainment to various tracks across the Maritimes.
In the end, Atlantic Canada is shaping up to once again being a hotbed of stock car and motorsports action from May- to- October. Be sure to get out to a race track this summer, experience the sport, find some favorites to cheer on and be a part of the action in 2026!
Special trucking feature: Highlights from Truck World 2026
By Rohit Narayan Sholingur
Among many other trends, Truck World 2026 demonstrated industry leaders are seeking innovative solutions that prioritize sustainability and cost management, shifting the focus away from merely increasing volume growth.
Truck World’s April return to Mississauga’s International Centre highlighted its position as Canada’s premiere trucking trade show . Showcasing a diverse range of products and services tailored to meet the evolving needs of the trucking sector, the three-day event kicked off with over 500+ exhibitors, hands-on vehicle demonstrations and a massive 32516 sq metres of exhibition space, attracting 15,000 attendees.
Often recognized as the meeting place for the Canadian trucking sector, the event brought the industry together to showcase innovation and strengthen partnerships. The event attracted a substantial congregation of fleet operators, manufacturers, and suppliers, highlighting the increasing influence of the Indian diaspora in the Canadian trucking sector, noting their growing roles as both drivers and entrepreneurs. The Ontario Trucking Association noted the event’s value in bringing the right stakeholders into direct conversations, par-
ticularly given the industry’s current focus on sustainability, fleet renewal, and a workforce shortage that has yet to ease. Truck World 2026 arrived at a moment when the industry had less room for speculation and more need for answers. What unfolded across the exhibition floor suggested that on several fronts.
Initial days
The initial two days of the event primarily focused on executive-level networking with the VIP exclusive breakfast session featuring keynote speaker Eric Starks, Chairman of FTR Transportation Intelligence who provided a data-driven outlook on the forces shaping the 2026 Canadian and U.S. trucking landscapes.
Discussions on the exhibition floor predominantly focused on currently implementable solutions rather than hypothetical future capabilities. A significant alignment was observable between manufacturers and fleet operators, primarily centred on optimizing the performance of existing assets while concurrently establishing foundational elements for the future.
The Ontario Trucking Association reports suggested advancements across three interdependent domains: sustainability initiatives, fleet modernization, and workforce development: identifying these as core themes permeating the gathering. Reports from TruckNews.com substantiated that while electric vehicle integration continued to be a relevant topic, enhancements in the operational efficiency of current fleets remained the primary focus.
Top five trucks
The show floor displayed a wide range of diesel and zeroemission models from industry leaders alongside The Ride & Drive Track, which allowed registered attendees with valid AZ licenses to test-drive cutting-edge electric and hydrogen vehicles .What manufacturers brought to Truck World this year was refinement: incremental but meaningful advances in fuel efficiency, driver ergonomics, and digital capability. In the current market, that approach appears to be exactly what fleet buyers are looking for.
Across all five brands, a consistent direction was evident: performance, driver comfort, and digital integration advancing in step. A practical model of innovation suited to the demands of the current operating environment.
The Freightliner Cascadia
Designed for maximum uptime and driver comfort, the Freightliner Cascadia offers advanced Detroit Assurance 4.0 safety systems, such as active braking and pedestrian protection, alongside premium interior options. Continued aerodynamic development and the expansion of digital driver interfaces drew positive responses from fleet operators, with fuel efficiency improvements reinforcing the model’s reputation for dependable, high-volume performance.
The Volvo VNR Electric
Volvo Trucks North America showcased its latest zero-emission, next-gen Volvo VNR Electric. Tailored for regional-haul, the VNR Electric offers up to 442.5 km of range, 455 hp, and fast-charging capabilities, serving as a cornerstone of Volvo’s sustainable transportation solutions in Canada.
Kenworth T680 Next Generation
A redesigned cabin brought quieter operation, improved ergonomics, and more refined digital controls. Featuring a sleeker, “wind-cheating” exterior with a narrower hood and grille, the Kenworth T680 includes optional DigitalVision mirrors, which can improve fuel economy by up to 1.5%. The connection between driver comfort and retention was well understood, and Kenworth’s approach treated it accordingly.
The Peterbilt Model 579/579 EV
Aerodynamic updates and enhanced onboard technology kept the model current while its identity remained intact: focusing on advanced technology, driver comfort, and efficiency. Showcased for on-highway efficiency and electric, zero-emission technology (up to 321.8 km range), Peterbilt features the PACCAR ePowertrain.
The Mack Anthem
For fleets that evaluate investments over years rather than quarters, the Anthem’s positioning speaks directly to how those purchasing decisions are actually made. With a 22.8 cm wider cab, improved aerodynamics, and up to 10% better fuel efficiency. It features a 287 cm bumper-to-back-of-cab (BBC) length, 12% better turning radius, and a 12% improvement in forward visibility.
Best fleets results
The Best Fleets to Drive For program, which was administered by the Truckload Carriers Association in partnership with CarriersEdge, offered a useful measure of how carrier competitiveness is evolving.
What the results suggest is that the fleets pulling ahead are those treating driver experience not as a recruitment tactic but as a long-term operational strategy. Featuring names such as America’s Service Line, Fortigo Freight Services and Decker Truck Line, these carriers were recognized for exceptional driver support, pay and culture during a challenging freight market. Crawford Trucking and Fortigo Freight Services were named overall winners for 2026.
AI tools and fleet management
Technology providers at this year’s show were notably consistent in how they positioned artificial intelligence: AI tools are no longer just buzzwords: they now provide actionable insights for maintenance, parts sourcing, and invoice automation. The gap between concept and deployment seems to have been closed.
Waabi and Kodiak Robotics contributed a longer-horizon perspective, presenting developments in simula-
tion-based training and AI-supported highway operations with tools like Lazer Logistics’ ‘Uncle Phil AI providing coaching and automating workflow decisions. AI-powered dash cams (such as Nauto on the Geotab Marketplace) showcased the ability to utilize billions of data points to reduce collisions and enhance driver safety.
Both companies were deliberate in framing their work around staged, controlled deployment, shifting the aim of progress toward autonomy, but measured and sequenced rather than immediate.
The picture that emerged across the exhibitor floor was consistent: AI is becoming operational infrastructure, running through maintenance, logistics, dispatch, and security as a connected layer rather than a series of isolated applications. This shift marks a significant evolution in how businesses leverage technology to drive productivity and manage resources.
The future of trucking
Truck World 2026 showcased a shift toward technological integration, zeroemission transportation, and practical, operational efficiency in the face of a tightening industry.
FTR Transportation Intelligence forecasts suggest that 2026 will not see a
robust bounce-back for the trucking industry, but rather a slow recovery with contract rates remaining below 2%. As a result of high operating costs and low rates, further carrier failures are expected in 2026.
In conclusion, Truck World 2026 marked a pivotal transition from the unpredictable conditions of the pandemic era to a renewed focus on operational efficiency. This gathering showcased the industry’s commitment to leveraging advanced digital tools to ensure the highest safety standards, while also addressing the growing challenge of rising expenses.
By embracing automation and exploring alternative fuels, industry leaders are seeking innovative solutions that prioritize sustainability and cost management, shifting the focus away from merely increasing volume growth. The direction was consistent and the pace was real. Trucks are being built around connectivity from the start. Workforce strategy is sitting alongside capital decisions rather than beneath them. Artificial intelligence has moved from the roadmap to the dispatch system. The carriers and manufacturers ahead of this curve are not predicting where the industry is going. They are already here. The official Truck World page signed off on Facebook with a promising 2028 return.
Beyond horsepower: What constitutes a truck in 2026?
By Jeremy Woolward
It doesn’t matter if you prefer fuel or electric powered vehicles because this is only part of a larger question, says our pundit. In fact, both are just part of a much bigger question: “What do you want your truck to do for you?”
Gone are the days where one would say that “horsepower is king”
It seems rather bold and maybe a bit presumptive, but it’s not wrong. Horsepower alone doesn’t define what makes a truck work in 2026. Instead, it’s only a part of a much bigger equation. In days gone by, one could define a truck by how much power it had, its wheel and tire size, towing capacity, and fuel economy. And the rule was, the more, the better. That worked for previous generations, but just as other vehicles have evolved in the marketplace, the world of personal and commercial trucks is also following suit. And while horsepower is not the only consideration, the argument of whether fuel or electric powered vehicles is also not the only viable argument out there. In fact, both are just part of a much bigger question: “What do you want your truck to do for you?”
Seldom a question used in the trucking world, it’s really a solid question that makes sense to ask. And once you find your answer, you can identify what truck fits your needs. However, where is one to start asking and looking? I have a few suggestions that might help you.
Let’s start with how the truck is powered. While gasoline and diesel are not going away anytime soon, the conversation is becoming much more nuanced. The big thing to take away is that electrification is becoming more practical than it was before. It’s important to consider the effect that fuel savings and lower-emission technologies will have on your bottom line (aka: your wallet), yet also consider flexibility, range confidence, and a reduction in operational compromises.
This is the role that hybrids and rangeextended trucks play and why they are becoming more popular than before.
They are the transitionary tool that people will use from going from full internal combustion to full electric, and manufacturers have taken notice of it. The middle ground is a much easier place to work from, and it’s a more accurate depiction of what’s going on in the world today. As examples, one can look at the strategy employed by
Ram and their range-extended pickups while also looking at the hybrid success demonstrated by Ford.
This doesn’t mean that full EV is going the way of the dinosaur; it’s that it’s becoming more specialized and more specific. Instead of a bludgeon, it’s more of a scalpel, and targeted to specific demographics. Electric pickups are being framed as premium, hightech, high-utility machines. As such, they are also more high-end priced. They’re not for everybody, but for those who can afford to maximize their
productivity, they can be quite useful. An example is the Chevrolet 2026 Silverado EV. It’s a beast of a vehicle with serious power, range, towing, and exportable energy. Gone are the days of saying “it can run without gasoline”, but rather, “Take a look at what it can do and see the versatility it offers, without relying on an internal combustion engine.” Fuel types are the low hanging fruit; vehicle potential, specs, and performance features are what should be driving the conversation.
In the commercial trucking space, it’s important to note that where you can control your routes, your charging stations, and duty cycles, EV adoption will continue, but not in the same capacity or style as on the consumer end. When you cannot control those variables, companies are going to look at a different approach to powering the next generation of commercial trucks.
Another way trucks are going to grow in 2026 and beyond is not only are they powered by energy, but they also become a source of energy, and that instantly changes a conversation. Remember back in the early years of smartphone development when Apple and Samsung would compete against each other for the best device, longest battery, and maximum efficiency? It was an intense time in that market, and when smartphone accessory makers decided to create portable battery packs to keep people’s smartphones going when they couldn’t charge them regularly, it became a huge boom as it allowed people to stay connected. That trend continues in that market. Guess what? Now, with strides made by some manufacturers, your truck can do the exact same thing; keep you going when you need it the most. In
trucking, that is referred to as exportable power, and it’s a major selling point. Ford pushes its Pro Power Onboard in their F-150 models. Chevrolet is making the case for offboard power in the Silverado EV. They sure won’t be alone for long, and the consumer is the one that’s going to win out. Imagine contractors, mobile techs, rural users, emergency response personnel, among others, leveraging that technology. It’s going to transform how people relate to their vehicle and it redefines “utility” in a way that nobody expected it would. Like your iPhone or Android device, your truck will keep your work going, will keep you connected to the world around you, and more. This is tangible, and probably the most important thing to consider. It’s real. Even truck agnostics who don’t know what horsepower or power train, or other jargon, mean, they can see what the truck can do, and the potential that exists. Those companies that can leverage that vision with their product are going to win out in the end.
On the commercial side, it’s not about the glitz or glamour. It’s another conversation entirely. It’s about efficiency and about to work smarter, not harder. Given the state of the world shifting in a way none would have expected in recent weeks, this couldn’t be more relevant to the commercial truck fleets out there. When fuel prices are jumping to highs not seen in many years, things like aerodynamic improvements, fuel savings, predictive maintenance tools, and connected service platforms are much more important than redesigns, flashy gimmicks, or trendy consumer features. Going back to the analogy of the smartphone, if consumer pickups are the iPhone and Android devices of the trucking world, then commercial trucks are looking at for those models to serve as the Blackberry of trucks, minus the trend to irrelevancy that plagued the first smartphone giant. An example is Volvo and their redesigned VNL. The company is building its message and branding around meaningful fuel efficiency gains as well as connected service improvements. This is critical, especially when margins are tight, fuel prices are sky-
rocketing, and budgets are monitored / scrutinized. You don’t want surprises in this area, and you don’t want surprises in unexpected maintenance bills. While it’s great to have a pickup that can do everything and be everything, sometimes companies need a truck to be a truck, and in this instance, that’s where being efficient is critical.
So all that is said, is there more to consider? Absolutely. The truck is only half the purchase decision. The other half is what makes up its “brain and brawn”. Software, for better or worse, has become a part of our everyday life, and in trucks, it’s no exception. Telematics, remote diagnostics, AI-assisted video, and software-driven maintenance are part of the solution and the value proposition that these vehicles bring. People as well as companies want real-time information on their vehicle. They want to know how the vehicle is performing, when it needs to be serviced, want to see fuel efficiency, and more. And the more any truck can provide this data, the greater its value and worth to the market. Manufacturers understand this and they are trying to push it to the end user for the best price point possible. Yes, it means that the base price might go up, but when you can treat a vehicle as a true investment, it suddenly numbs the argument that “it’s too expensive”. Yes, assets depreciate over time, but even as the base price may depreciate, the value is what it can provide over the course of its lifetime. If, over a lifetime period of a truck, you end up saving tens of thousands between fuel trips, maintenance, and repairs, does it really matter if the truck price drops year over year?
This also ties into the safety component of vehicles. A variable that the public cannot directly control is the cost of insurance. When each jurisdiction handles it differently, there is potential for crossed wires and mixed messages. Manufacturers are trying to make the
most of it and streamline the truck’s performance to address some of these concerns. Collision mitigation technology, driver assistance systems, emergency braking performance…these are just some of the examples that buyers, regulators, insurance, and fleet operators are looking at. Each wants these data points for very different reasons. On the consumer side, these technologies are taking huge leaps forward to match efforts on the commercial end while the commercial end is looking towards more intervention capable systems that can coach, correct, and prevent incidents from occurring long before they do. Safety is no longer an afterthought; like power and efficiency, safety in trucks in 2026 is part of the overall conversation.
To summarize, the truck market in 2026 and beyond is not going to be defined by one singular issue. The issues, questions, and responses are just as diverse as ever, and it’s going to take a prudent person or company time and effort to navigate these topics and come back to the fundamental question asked earlier, “what can my truck do for me”? Once you know what you want it to do, you consider its power, potential, and safety factors, and then go forth and explore a market just waiting to serve you. Like a custom suit, not one truck will satisfy two people the same. You must look, gauge the product for its merits, and truly go beyond the horsepower to find what you want today. But once you do, I’m sure you’ll feel emboldened and satisfied with your investment.
THE GREEN MILE
When pigs fly
By Zachary Perlmutter
Our columnist argues that while the pace of EV adoption has been positively glacial, this variable, among many other solutions, needs to accelerate if it’s to truly bring about positive change.
In a 1992 comedy special during a spot on climate change, the late George Carlin argued that while Earth will likely survive any damage thrown its way, we humans are doomed if we don’t change our behaviour. It seems as though, 34 years later, his claim has continued to ring true. Because while we have caused immeasurable global environmental degradation, much of the worst of it hasn’t happened yet. Unfortunately, despite global awareness about climate change being as prevalent as ever, the actual desire to fix the issue has remained relatively slow and ineffective. This is most obvious in the apparently easy option of electric vehicles (EVs), which have gained traction over time, but have been struggling amidst rising temperatures and the depletion of resources needed to make them functional.
Perhaps the most-pressing issue surrounding EVs is their lack of temperature resilience. According to Consumer Reports, EVs aren’t able to effectively withstand certain extreme temperature conditions. Simply put, whenever the temperature drops to sub-frigid or climbs to sweltering levels, EVs, which have to rely on internal batteries to regulate their inside temperatures, slow down significantly. This is especially apparent with Teslas, which have per-
formance issues regardless of whether it’s -18C or 29C. Combine that with their frequent tendency to explode, thanks to their lithium batteries being highly volatile, and it’s no wonder why many people are hesitant to trust them.
One alternative to lithium that’s been suggested is salt. In markets like China and Southeast Asia, salt has been used to power EVs as it holds up in colder weather and is relatively cheap. However, this method hasn’t been tested in colder climates like Canada, so it’s not a guarantee according to Scientific American. Furthermore, certain types of salt, particularly road salt, are harmful to roads and the environment, making them a problem as well.. It’s also possible that relying on salt could drive up its market price, which would be bad for food industries.
Let’s face it: EVs aren’t a perfect solution to carbon reduction. Yes, they might have the edge slightly on that front, but it’s really up to humans to regulate our environmental footprint. True, we’ve made some progress, especially with the increased sales of EVs, but lifestyle choices, such as what we eat, matter as well. Given that I doubt people are willing to collectively alter their diets, or even commute more by foot, it’s a hard ask. Especially when the automobile and meat industries have incentives to stay in business indefinitely, even with their wasteful practices. In fact, mass production of meat is regarded as one of the top polluters annually, even more than gasoline production, with the Stanford Woods Institute for the Environment suggesting that it contributes roughly 32% of the total methane released into the atmosphere.
Despite some advances, EV sales are also still lagging behind projections targets. According to a 2022 UN climate study, if the world is to meet its ecofriendly target by 2040, roughly 60% of new automobile sales have to be electric by that time. In The U.S. alone, 90% of new automobile sales by 2030 would have to be electric. For a country so polarized politically that it can barely agree on sensitive matters like abor-
tion and gun regulations, that’s a really hard sell. You’d sooner convince pigs to sprout wings and fly.
Then there’s the matter of costs. Simply put, creating EV-friendly infrastructure in urban and rural environments isn’t cheap, especially given the bureaucratic red tape around zoning. This has all been laid out on the Canadian government’s website as a cost that could potentially be written off, but that doesn’t mean that everyone will want to follow the steps to make it happen. And while it’s true that organizations like Plug ‘N Drive have been handing out financial incentives to buy new EVs, is that enough? What would the total cost to upgrade the built environment with electric charging stations be, and would that increase our taxes? These are questions that need answers for an EV-friendly world to be practical, and they need answers soon.
Yet arguably the biggest obstacle to adopting EVs on a larger scale has been apathy from politicians. Simply put, environmental awareness isn’t a good sell when lobbyists and foreign interests are constantly meddling in progress. Oil, after all, has been tried and true for over a century, and it’s relatively cheap thanks to subsidies. And while closing the Strait of Hormuz may stimulate reconsideration of EV adoption, I feel that this is merely an anomaly in the ongoing battle to protect the fragile environment.
Ultimately, this leaves us with a decision: do we strive to improve the ecological situation, even at the expense of uncertainty, or do we stick with the status quo and keep accelerating the inevitable? EVs might not be perfect, but gas cars demand a rethink on so many levels. And if we don’t find ways to make EVs worth our time, then we
might as well be sealing our fates now.
I know it sounds like doom-and-gloom, but we only have one planet to live on and we’re failing it. So while change might be scary, is this really the legacy that we want to be leaving for ourselves? We still have time to mitigate our own damage, but it’s up to us to take that first step. I hope it’s the right one.
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WOMEN AND WHEELS
Priorities in keeping trucks road-ready
Keeping commercial trucks well-maintained is no small task. For fleet managers and owner-operators, it’s a balancing act of safety, compliance, cost, and uptime. While routine maintenance is critical, several ongoing challenges make it harder to keep trucks road-ready.
One of the biggest hurdles is wear and tear from heavy use. Large commercial vehicles log hundreds of miles daily, and constant strain on brakes, tires, engines, and suspensions means parts wear out quickly. Staying ahead of those breakdowns requires both proactive inspections and predictive maintenance strategies, says Lynn Murphy, CEO with TruckSuite, which offers commercial vehicle aftermarket warranties, preventative maintenance, and tire and wheel protection programs to fleets, Owner-Operators, truck dealerships and repair shops.
But while you can take proactive steps to avoid breakdowns or mechanical problems, they still happen. When a rig breaks down, women professional truck drivers — like all drivers — can protect themselves from being taken advantage of by taking a few smart steps. First, whenever possible get a clear estimate before any work is performed, rather than agreeing to repairs after they’ve already been completed, which can lead to inflated charges.
Drivers also can benefit from using direct-sale marketplaces
partnered with insurance agencies, where vetted service providers gives more transparency and confidence in who’s doing the maintenance and repair. And when it comes to filing insurance claims, keeping thorough documentation such as photos, receipts, and notes on conversations helps to ensure fair reimbursement and prevents disputes down the road. By staying proactive and informed, drivers can keep more control in stressful breakdown situations.
Priorities to healthy truck maintenance
Keeping trucks road-ready involves a mix of proactive planning, skilled labor, real-time data, and responsive logistics, according to Alan McDonald, Chief Operating Officer at TruckSuite, who has 25-plus years of claims repairs. Key areas to focus on include:
• Preventative Maintenance Scheduling
• Driver Communication & Reporting
• Parts Availability
• Technician/Labor Shortage
• Complex Technology
• Cost Management
• Environmental & Regulatory Pressures
Family, friends and fun: Maritime Car Wash Sales and Services Ltd proof that passion for people, purpose is great for business
By Kristen Lipscombe
F or Maritime Car Wash Sales and Services Ltd co-owners Gordon
“Gordie” Ryan and Grant Shaw, their business is all about a passion for working with people – and of course, cars.
The lifelong friends share a love for everything automotive-related, which have made them more than ideal business partners for a Nova Scotia-based company that over the past two decades has grown into the largest supplier and service operator for car washes across Atlantic Canada.
“We just really like cars,” Gordie, originally from Wellington, N.S., said with a chuckle of their shared joy for working within the vehicle industry.
“We’ve been business partners for over 20 years now,” Grant of Grandlake, N.S., and son of original owner Don
Shaw, added of when he and his buddy first took over Maritime Car Wash, based in Elmsdale, N.S., in 2005.
“It’s almost like a marriage,” Grant said of his co-owner, who he’s hung out with since both attended Charles P. Allen High School in Bedford, N.S.
The two also together worked at his father’s service station in Enfield, N.S. “Him and I have been together longer than my wife and I.”
“We came right out of school and went into business together,” Grant said. “And the rest is history.”
The two Maritime Car Wash Sales and Services Ltd co-owners share a bond that goes far beyond business, and that includes the values they live by both professionally and personally, most importantly their commitment to treating
“people the way you want to be treated,” Gordie said, whether that’s family, friends, employees or clients.
Those values came to the co-owners innately, passed down from Don, who instilled that commitment to hard work in both of his proteges, with son Grant taking over the service station and Gordie taking on the car wash business until it finally came time for the original owner to retire. That’s when the guys decided to buy out Don’s car wash business and build something they know would make him proud.
“My father was very old school,” Grant said. “The customer is always right and service is No. 1.”
“Gordie and I both adopted the same attitude,” he said, and that’s why “we are the absolute best in our field.”
Maritime Car Wash, which Don started out of his garage in 1972, describes itself as “Atlantic Canada’s vehicle wash and equipment headquarters,” and has since moved from Gordie’s garage to its current location in East Hants Business Park, starting with a 4,800-square-foot facility acquired in 2014 that stocks a full supply of inventory and provides space for meeting with and training with clients.
“He was a real pioneer and he kind of brought car washes to Atlantic Canada at the time,” Grant said of his father. “We’ve been around for a long time… and it has certainly grown a lot.”
In fact, the business has since constructed a second building in the industrial park in order to keep up with demand. Their busy operation includes a fully-equipped travel fleet manned by skilled technicians who are on the road regularly to ensure customers are served “promptly and efficiently,” according to the Maritime Car Wash website. “From installation to upgrades, to renovations to servicing existing equipment, we do it all.”
The company supplies and services about 70 per cent of car washes across Atlantic Canada, Gordie explains, from many of the gas stations you see every day on the to Private run carwashes.
“We service and supply all commercial car wash equipment, from cars to trucks, to buses to transport trucks,” Gordie said.
Currently, Maritime Car Wash has nine staff members, with Grant and Gordie at the helm, five technicians travelling to service clients, another travelling technician specializing in chemical supplies, and Gordon’s wife Heather Ryan taking on the role of customer service representative.
“I think we treat our staff extremely fairly,” Gordie said. “We try to help them with what they require and every employee needs to be looked at differently because they all have different situations.”
“One of the things that we’re super
proud of is our retention,” he said of employees and customers alike.
“As a team, there’s nothing more important than being honest to your clients,” Gordie said.
Maritime Car Wash works with several suppliers in order to provide products to its clients, from PDQ Manufacturing, Inc. and Belanger, Inc. for automatic wash equipment and companies such as Magikist; Ten Lives Company; and Standard Change-Makers, Inc.; for selfserve wash systems, to Magikist and Westmatic Clean & Green for truck washes and Excalibur Water Systems, Inc. and PurClean for water treatment systems. NCS Carwash Solutions provides most of the chemicals so the company can then supply car washes across the region with top-quality product.
Check out the Maritime Car Wash website for a full list of the company’s suppliers.
Maritime Car Wash even serves the dog wash industry – yep, that’s right –providing soap and conditioner to care for your furry best friends, with four locations still offering the unique services.
Grant and Gordie also attend annual trade shows, most recently the Convenience U CARWACS Show in Toronto this past March and The Car Wash Show in Nashville, Tenn., in May.
“This gives us a good chance to reach out to our corporate customers,” Gordie said.
One of the biggest changes in car washes has been the payment systems, he said, explaining that the move from coin-oriented to credit card and code systems through suppliers such
as PDQ and Kesseltronics, “has really changed the game.”
Airlift Doors supplies top-notch Overhead Doors for car washes, with the latest trend to attract those behind the wheel into car washes being aesthetic lighting systems. Maritime Car Wash gets their lighting equipment from G&G Lighting, Gordie said. “It really has transformed the experience.”
Clearly, Grant, Gordon and company have found the right combination of quality suppliers and dedicated car wash clients to keep their business running smoothly and successfully.
And as for founder Don, “he tells us all the time that he’s very impressed with what we’ve done and how it’s grown,” son Grant said.
And he credits much of that to what both he and Gordon learned from his father.
“I’m very grateful for the work ethic that he instilled in both Gordie and I,” he said. “It’s proven to work very well for us and we’re growing every year, so we’re obviously doing something right.”
Both Grant and Gordon are passionate about interacting with those they work with, from their loyal employees to those the companies they supply and serve to ensure the best car washes across Atlantic Canada.
As Gordon said, “what it really comes down to is, it’s a people business.”
The highway symphony: How Canada’s 2026 fuel tax holiday let the landscape exhale
By Sana Fatemi
The federal government’s fuel tax reprieve brings with it a much-needed break for drivers but also harkens the dawn of spring.
The Canadian landscape has been locked in a high-stakes, whiteknuckle silence for months. The winter driving season is a sensory deprivation tank of sorts: muted, white, and intense, where the only sounds are the hum of the heater, the aggressive crunch of studded tires on solid ice, and the silent prayer for traction. But every spring, there is a fleeting, magical moment when the country finally exhales, and the road changes its tune.
In April 2026, this natural, rhythmic transition found an unexpected partner: the federal government’s decision to temporarily suspend the excise tax on gasoline and diesel. While economic headlines often focus on logistics, supply chains, and rising costs, the implementation of this tax holiday, running from April 20- to- September 7, 2026, acted as more than a policy shift. For the thousands of truckers, commuters, and travelers on the TransCanada, it was a literal breath of fresh air, changing the sensory texture of the
road from a stressed, icy grind into a flowing symphony of spring.
The textures of the road: A seasonal shift
The highway symphony starts off with a change in sound. The sharp, metallic crunch of tires on salt-crusted ice espouses something softer, more rhythmic. It is the steady, melodic slap of rain against the chassis, a sound that signals the end of the dry, brittle winter air. The road itself changes: the frozen, rigid surface turns into a forgiving, wet expanse, reflecting the sky rather than punishing the vehicle.
As the frost leaves the ground, the smell of thawing earth fills the cab, replacing the harsh, antiseptic scent of windshield washer fluid. It’s a sensory shift that marks the transition from survival mode to traveling mode. This is the moment the cab windows finally roll down, the heaters click off, and the roar of the wind rushes in, bringing with it the scent of wet pine, mud, and new life.
April 2026: A policy that let the world in
The announcement of the federal fuel tax holiday by the government in April 2026, was, in many ways, an act of timing as much as economics. Coming on the heels of intense fuel pressure caused by global oil disruptions, this four-cent-per-litre break on diesel
and 10-cent break on gas wasn’t just a reduction in cost; it was a reduction in pressure.
For an industry that had been battling high costs, with some fuel bills doubling since the start of conflicts in the Middle East, the relief provided a moment of calm. It gave truck operators and businesses a slight reprieve to breathe.
A symphony of sound and senses
The highway symphony is, above all, a sensory experience. It is the feeling of the steering wheel losing its freezing grip, allowing a more relaxed, confident touch. It is the sound of the engine working less, the RPMs dropping, and a smoother, more efficient rhythm emerging.
• The transition: The transition from the harsh, high-pitched crunch of February to the deep, wet rumble of April.
• The atmosphere: The smell of thawing soil, the sight of green emerging from the side of the highway, and the sound of wind over the open window.
• The feeling: The weight of the season lifting, both on the road and on the driver’s shoulders.
The temporary suspension of the fuel tax acted as the conductor for this transition, allowing the “highway symphony” to play out with less disruption, less stress, and more space to appreciate the journey. It is a moment where the economy and the environment meet, and for once, they seem to be in harmony, playing a tune that tells of spring, of renewal, and of the open road, finally ready to be traveled with the windows down.
ELECTRIC AVENUE
Two views of the same EV coin
By Rohit Narayan Sholingur
EVs need to perform
EVs need to perform reliably, regardless of season, distance, or location and the models rolling out in the near future are moving away from aspiration and toward usability.
The 2027 and 2028 EV model years point to something more grounded : a shift away from aspiration and toward usability. Not just electric vehicles people admire, but ones they can afford, charge, and rely on across Canada’s varied conditions.
The return of the Chevrolet Bolt is one of the clearest signals. Priced at $28,995 USD, it re-enters the market as one of the most accessible EVs available. General Motors has rebuilt it on newer architecture, added faster charging, and integrated a NACS port, opening access to the Tesla Supercharger network.
That last point in particular carries weight in Canada. While charging infrastructure continues to expand, coverage remains uneven outside major corridors such as Highway 401. Broader access to reliable fast charging could make the difference for drivers in smaller communities or those regularly travelling between regions.
Ford is addressing another core Canadian reality: the importance of pickup trucks. Its upcoming mid-size electric pickup, which is expected to start around $30,000 USD, targets a segment where utility often outweighs novelty.
Beyond performance figures, the
truck’s vehicle-to-home capability stands out. The ability to power a home for several days during an outage speaks directly to the concerns in provinces where extreme weather conditions, starting from ice storms in Ontario and Quebec to harsh winter winds in Atlantic Canada, can potentially disrupt the grid. In that context, electrification becomes less about emissions and more about resilience.
Kia enters the conversation with the EV3, a compact SUV offering competitive range and fast-charging capability. This is the part that matters the most for Canadian buyers: practical, familyoriented vehicles that balance cost, space, and efficiency.
What distinguishes the EV3 is not just its specifications, but its presentation. A modern, tech-forward interior helps position it as a desirable option rather than a compromise, which remains a key factor in EV adoption.
Meanwhile, Rivian is preparing to expand its reach with the R3, a smaller and more affordable model expected to hit the roads by 2028. With an available off-road-oriented variant, it reflects a different aspect of Canadian driving : one that includes gravel roads, cottage country routes and less-developed infrastructure beyond urban centres.
These vehicles suggest a broader alignment within the industry. Pricing is coming down. Charging access is improving. Vehicle models are expanding to match real-world use cases.
But challenges remain.
Cold weather continues to affect battery performance, reducing range during winter months. Charging infrastructure while improving, is still inconsistent in rural and remote areas. Insurance costs and upfront pricing, even at lower entry points, can still present barriers for many households.
For Canadian consumers, the question is no longer whether electric vehicles are viable in theory. It is whether they are dependable in practice: across long distances, fluctuating temperatures, and varying infrastructure conditions.
The shift toward affordable EVs is real. What remains to be seen is how well it translates into the everyday routines of drivers across the country.
Because in Canada, a vehicle is more than a statement of intent. It is a necessity , one that must perform reliably, regardless of season, distance, or location. And that is the standard this next generation of electric vehicles will ultimately have to meet.
EVs are here to stay
By Oscar Collins
The hype for EVs was through the roof a few years ago. Now, it seems the country is moving past the trend — at least, that’s what the headlines say. So, what’s the deal? Let’s look at the data to get a better gauge.
No, people aren’t selling their EVs to get gas-powered cars back — at least, not on a widespread level. EV registrations grew by 20% in 2025, though growth has slowed down.
Q4 in 2025 saw declining sales rates, thanks to the end of subsidies. However, the entire calendar year was the secondbest all-time for EVs. Dealerships sold over 1.2 million EVs, easily eclipsing 2022 and 2021’s records.
Slowing growth rates ≠ the world ending for EVs.
Factors working against EVs
Part of the problem lies with self-inflicted wounds. For instance, the U.S. government ended EV subsidies in October 2025, making these cars more expensive. Now, consumers have fewer incentives to go get a battery-electric vehicle.
Then, there are tangential problems. The U.S. government is also slowing support for charging infrastructure. It even stopped chargers at federal buildings.
Why I’m still optimistic
Despite the bad news, there’s still plenty of hope. EVs will continue to grow thanks to economics. Batteries and other essential parts will become cheaper while improving range. Over time, more consumers will come around to their enhanced performance, whether faster acceleration or quieter driving.
With over 5 years of experience writing about cars, gear, the outdoors and more, Oscar Collins has covered a broad spectrum of topics during his time as a blogger and freelancer.
Oscar currently serves as the editor-in-chief of Modded, which he founded to spread his love of cars with an international audience. He’s committed to providing high-quality content on a regular basis with readers across the world.
He’s written for Carwash.com, Chevy Hardcore, Tailgater Magazine, Men’s Axis and a long list of other sites, bringing his unique perspective to auto trends, fitness fads and whatever else is keeping the internet’s attention.
NEWS OF THE WEIRD
Bits and pieces of the strange, bizarre and sometimes inexplicable gathered from around the web so you don’t have to! Yer welcome!
Volkswagen is selling a convertible SUV with a manual gearbox. Yes, really
Car configurators are an endless source of surprising discoveries.
We recently spotted cloth seats in the new S-Class, but how about a convertible SUV with a manual gearbox?
Volkswagen’s nearly forgotten T-Roc Cabriolet is still available, and yes, it can be ordered with three pedals.
In an ironic twist, the Golf GTI has been automatic-only for the past couple of years, yet this high-riding contraption lets you row your own. The T-Roc is essentially a rebodied Golf on stilts, and while the regular crossover has transitioned to a second generation, its convertible counterpart remains stuck on the Mk1. Come to think of it, VW’s sole convertible won’t get a next-gen successor, as production ends by mid-2027.
But if you live in Europe, there’s still time to get the T-Roc
Source: https://www.motor1.com/news/787488/vw-selling-convertible-suv-manual-gearbox
Cabriolet, a spiritual successor to the hardtop Eos. Since the droptop is based on the original T-Roc launched in 2017, it features the old and rather excellent VW interior design. That means plenty of physical buttons and knobs rather than shifting nearly all functions into a touchscreen.
The German configurator is also a reminder that VW still sells cars with manual air conditioning. However, the T-Roc Cabriolet doesn’t come cheap. At €37,560 before options, it’s about €7,000 more expensive than the new T-Roc crossover. In fact, it’s closer in price to the larger Tiguan (€39,175) than to its donor car.
While the T-Roc Cabriolet caught our attention for its unorthodox body style, VW also offers other models with a manual gearbox and the old dashboard design. The Polo supermini and the Touran minivan soldier on in Europe, with the Polo even offering a good old-fashioned five-speed gearbox. Even the current-generation Golf retains a clutch pedal in lower trims positioned below the GTI.
Hyundai is developing a new N Engine—and it’ll be tested for 24 hours straight
The next-generation powertrain will be publicly tested at the Nürburgring 24 Hours in two Hyundai Elantra entries.
The beauty of manufacturers competing in motorsports is that races can be used to develop and validate powertrains that may eventually make their way into road-going models. That’s exactly what Hyundai plans to do with a new high-performance engine set to be publicly tested at the Nürburgring 24 Hours.
Hyundai has not disclosed many details, but the engine is expected to power future N models. In a press release, the Korean marque said the day-long race will serve as a realworld test of the engine’s performance and durability. In other words, it could be a major validation moment, especially if
the cars complete the race without reliability issues.
The pre-production engine will power two Elantra N1 RP cars in the SP4T class. Hyundai says it features “improved power and response characteristics with enhanced race capability while meeting current emissions standards.” For reference, the current Elantra N uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four producing 276 horsepower.
The pre-production engine will power two Elantra N1 RP cars in the SP4T class. Hyundai says it features “improved power and response characteristics with enhanced race capability
while meeting current emissions standards.” For reference, the current Elantra N uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four producing 276 horsepower.
The “T” in SP4T suggests the upcoming engine will use forced induction, while the class allows up to 2.6 liters of dis-
placement. Whether Hyundai has increased displacement remains unclear, but it would not be surprising to see output climb to around 300 horsepower. That would still trail the Honda Civic Type R’s 315 horsepower, but it would be a welcome upgrade for future Hyundai N buyers.
Source: https://www.autoblog.com/news/hyundai-is-developing-a-new-n-engine-and-itll-be-tested-for-24-hours-straight
Ontario guy nearly becomes a turkey dinner
An Ontario man who was chased by a pair of aggressive turkeys only escaped by jumping into a stranger’s car -- and the incident was caught on camera.
Michael Bourgon was walking Thursday near Prince of Wales Drive and Heron Road in Ottawa when he noticed two turkeys following him.
“I see a couple of turkeys. I didn’t think too much of it. I said, ‘Hey, what’s up, turkeys?’ And then they started coming at me,” Bourgon told CBC Radio’s Ottawa Morning
Witness Jody Paul captured video as Bourgon tried to escape the turkeys by fleeing and kicking snow at the birds.
“I was on my way home and I kind of noticed these two turkeys chasing this poor guy and it was so, like, naturally funny that I just kind of wanted to capture it on video and kind of memorialize the moment,” Paul told Global News
A second video posted online by Paul’s coworker shows Bourgon escape the turkeys by hopping into a stranger’s car.
“A complete and total stranger did not hesitate to just offer assistance, which is kind of nice,” Bourgon said. “She’s some random lady in the car. I look like the Unabomber. So like, she’s the one who’s reaching out here. And honestly, I just want to get away from these turkeys.... I was not in the mood for turkey business.”
Source: https://www.upi.com/Odd_News/2026/02/25/canada-Ottawa-turkeys-chase-man/7251772035813
Someone
put a BMW E30 M3 on four motorcycles—and it
Countless unorthodox car builds have surfaced over the years, and this one from Bleumode and NightRide.pl fits right in. Unveiled at Ultrace Germany last weekend, it features a BMW E30 M3 riding on four Suzuki GSX-R bikes.WNot everyone will like it, but that reflects the nature of car culture – it is not meant to be one-size-fits-all. Just as some enthusiasts are not drawn to slammed cars with extreme camber, others may not connect with this concept. Still, Ultrace is exactly the kind of event where such builds belong, with organizers narrowing a massive global applicant pool into a little over 1,000 selected cars. This year also marked the first time in the event’s 15-year history that Ultrace was held outside Poland.
This E30 M3 build blends car and motorcycle culture, finished in the orange Jägermeister livery made famous by BMW’s early1990s touring car history. It evokes the same nostalgic motorsport appeal as liveries like the now-banned Marlboro scheme
Trying to justify the creation is a challenge, especially since even the builders do not offer a clear definition. NightRide.pl, a Polandbased crew known for working on cars like the BMW E30 and Honda Civic, said, “If you’re wondering what this is, I’m wondering the same thing.” The most fitting description may simply be an interpretation of combining a car and a motorcycle – described by the team as “just a cool thing, cool piece to look at.”
As for functionality, the build does not appear to be drivable in its current form. The E30 M3 body was mounted on a custom frame supported by four Suzuki bikes.
looks unreal
It may not have served the conventional purpose of being driven, but it still drew attention to the event, whether for better or worse. For those less interested in experimental builds, Ultrace Germany also featured a wide range of standout cars, from classics like the Bugatti EB110 to widebody trackfocused machines.
BMW also showed up to the event to celebrate the M3’s 40th anniversary, which made the wild car-bike E30 build even more amusing. It is probably safe to say the Bavarian automaker never imagined an M3 being reinterpreted this way – but that is what gives the build its personality.
Source: https://www.autoblog.com/news/someone-put-a-bmw-e30-m3-on-four-motorcycles-and-it-looks-unreal
MOTOR MATTERS
Canada’s largest automotive manufacturers form new association
Honda Canada Inc., Honda of Canada Mfg., Toyota Canada Inc., and Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada announced the launch of the Pacific Manufacturing Association of Canada (PMAC), April 15, a new industry association representing Canada’s two largest automotive manufacturers.
PMAC will provide a collective platform for coordinated engagement between members –including Honda, Toyota and Japan-based automotive parts manufacturers with operations in Canada – and federal and provincial governments. The association aims to advance the unique interests of its members, and celebrate their four decades of sustained production, investment and employment in Canada.
Together, PMAC members account for a large majority of Canadian vehicle production. In 2025, PMAC’s founding members, Honda and Toyota, assembled more than 75 per cent of all vehicles manufactured in Canada and employed more than 60 per cent of the country’s vehicle assembly plant workers.
“The formation of PMAC is a positive and timely development as Canada’s automotive sector navigates a period of profound change and challenge,” said Dave Jamieson, Chair of PMAC, and CEO of Honda Canada Inc. “As together we represent more than 75 per cent of vehicles manufactured in Canada, we look forward to engaging constructively with federal and provincial governments on key policy discussions to represent the unique interests of Honda and Toyota, highlight our long standing contributions to Canada, and support pragmatic, evidence based policies that protect Canadian jobs, sustain investment, and strengthen Canada’s manufacturing competitiveness and integrated supply chains.”
“Canada’s automotive manufacturing sector continues to play a vital role in the country’s economic strength and future growth,” said Tim Hollander, President of Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada and PMAC board member. “For more than four decades, the teams at Toyota and Honda, along with our suppliers, have invested in Canadian communities, created high-quality jobs, and built vehicles that compete globally. The creation of PMAC reflects the shared responsibility we have as manufacturers to help strengthen the industry’s fu-
ture. Through PMAC, we look forward to working collaboratively with governments and industry partners to sustain investment, strengthen supply chains, and support the long-term success of Canadian manufacturing.”
Brendan Sweeney will serve as PMAC’s inaugural President and CEO. As Canada’s leading automotive industry analyst and researcher, Sweeney brings a unique approach to leadership and relationship-building, much of which was developed during his time leading automotive and manufacturing industry research centres at McMaster University and Western University. This approach will help position PMAC as a solutions-oriented partner to governments and other industry stakeholders during ongoing consultations related to the federal automotive strategy and the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA).
In addition to providing a collective voice for Canada’s largest automakers during CUSMA negotiations and ongoing federal automotive strategy consultations, PMAC will focus on broader policy issues related to electric vehicles, GHG emissions, regulatory modernization, and other measures to enhance Canada’s manufacturing competitiveness.
News gathered from around the automotive and trucking sectors that’s vital to industry knowledge.
For more information about the Pacific Manufacturing Association of Canada (PMAC) and its members’ contributions to Canada’s economy visit: www.pacificmanufacturing.ca
2026 Top fleet employers announced
Trucking HR Canada (THRC) is pleased to announce that 98 fleets have been named Top Fleet Employers (TFE) for 2026. This year’s group represents fleets of all sizes and segments of the industry from across the country.
“The 2026 Top Fleet Employers demonstrate exceptionally high standards in their HR practices, and we are proud to showcase them as leaders in our sector,” says Angela Splinter, CEO, Trucking HR Canada. “Now in its 13th year, the TFE program continues to evolve alongside the transportation industry — raising the bar and reinforcing its position as a national benchmark for excellence.”
“We are honoured to celebrate the fleets that help make the transportation and logistics sector a great place to work, while also benefiting from this prestigious national recognition.”
Top Fleet Employers is a national initiative that recognizes fleets with HR policies and practices that meet the highest standards in the sector. It is not a competition, but a rigorous review process where applicants are evaluated across multiple criteria, including skills development, workplace culture, employee engagement, recruitment practices, compensation, sustainability, community engagement, and innovative HR policies. Employees also provide feedback about their workplaces.
This year’s TFE cohort represents regions across Canada, as well as fleets of all sizes and industry segments. Fleets recognized for five, 10, or more years earn Top Fleet Employer of Distinction status. In 2026, 10 fleets have achieved 10+ years of distinction, and five have reached the 5+ year milestone.
All 2026 Top Fleet Employers will be recognized and celebrated at the 13th an-
nual Awards Gala in Toronto on October 14, 2026. Ticket sales opened April 7.
Prime Minister Carney suspends federal fuel excise tax on gasoline and diesel to lower costs for Canadians
On April 14, Prime Minister, Mark Carney, announced that the government is temporarily suspending the federal fuel excise tax on gasoline and diesel across Canada. Starting April 20, 2026, Canada’s new government will suspend the full amount of the tax on gasoline and diesel until September 7, 2026. This is expected to reduce Canadians’ bills at the gas station by 10 cents per litre on regular gasoline and 4 cents on diesel. The government is also temporarily suspending the federal fuel excise tax on aviation fuels.
Cutting the tax on gasoline and diesel until Labour Day is a responsible measure that will reduce operating costs for truckers and businesses in the food, agriculture, housing, construction, and delivery sectors. With lower costs and greater financial strength, businesses can hire more workers, confidently build, and export more products to global markets.
Canada’s new government was elected to build a more resilient economy – an economy that creates good careers, strengthens our sovereignty, and empowers all Canadians with a lower cost of living. We’re moving with speed and ambition to build a country where all Canadians have greater certainty, security, and prosperity.
“We’re building a stronger, more resilient, and more independent Canadian economy. As we build, we’re cutting your taxes, reducing the costs of your homes, and providing you relief at the pump. We cannot control what other nations do. We’re focused on what we can control – building Canada strong for all,” said the Rt. Hon. Mark Carney.
CBSA IT system outages continue to disrupt supply chains, add costs as agency
issues update
Over the past several days, system failures and delays in receiving critical messaging have compounded existing frustrations across the industry. The Canadian Trucking Alliance (CTA) has been actively engaging with the agency through regular working group meetings, providing real-time feedback on fleet experiences, including rising costs, service delays, and broader impacts on operations.
The CTA for years has raised concerns about chronic underinvestment in these systems, but the situation reached a boiling point in September 2025. Widespread outages triggered significant supply chain disruptions, severe backlogs at the border, and major delays in the movement of international trade. As a result, many of Canada’s truck drivers were left effectively paralyzed at the northern border, with some stranded for days.
In response, CBSA has been working alongside Shared Services Canada (SSC) to address both technical and operational issues. A multi-modal roundtable session was held in early 2026 with representatives from SSC, the president of CBSA and the minister of Public Safety, Gary Anandasangaree, who reiterated their strong commitment to resolving these challenges through a comprehensive, multi-pronged action plan
Despite these efforts, confidence in the reliability of CBSA’s systems continues to erode among fleets, drivers, and supply chain stakeholders.
“Although both the CBSA and SSC are working tirelessly to fix these ongoing issues, carriers and supply chain partners continue to lose faith and confidence in these critical systems supporting crossborder supply chains and businesses. Stability and reliability need to be restored as soon as possible,” said Lak Shoan, CTA director of Policy and Public Affairs.
The CBSA is working on additional communications to industry, including some potential solutions to mitigating these challenges, which will be distributed to the CTA membership as soon as possible.
THE ATLANTIC ROAD REPORT
Automotive-related content gathered from around the Maritime provinces so you don’t have to!
transit services between rural communities within 100 kilometres of Halifax and key destinations in HRM. It would offer regular, dependable schedules and routes suitable for daily commuting.
“Frequent, reliable and affordable transit service means more options to access jobs, schools, healthcare and daily needs,” said Public Works Minister Fred Tilley. “When developing the Regional Transportation Plan, we heard loud and clear across citizen and community engagement sessions that this kind of regional public transit service is needed.”
The request for information will:
• identify prospective service providers, their interest and their ability to provide services
“We’re pleased to see this initiative moving forward, and we support the expansion of affordable transportation options for Nova Scotians, airport workers and the travellers we serve every day. Better regional transit connections will help improve access to jobs, services and communities across the province, while enhancing the overall travel experience for those travelling to, from and within our region,” said Joyce Carter, president and CEO, Halifax International Airport Authority.
NEW BRUNSWICK
Federal government invests in rural public transit planning in southern New Brunswick
Planning and research will help devel -
ings into the transit planning process.
For the second project, the Southeast Regional Service Commission will also receive $50,000 to undertake comprehensive public transportation research. This work will support transportation planning and decisionmaking by enhancing connectivity among communities in southeastern New Brunswick.
These investments will support new transit solutions, helping residents in rural and remote communities conduct their day-to-day activities, access services, go to work, school, medical appointments, and visit loved ones.
“Investments like these will help build the transit services that will connect our rural communities and support
the economy. Research and planning at the regional level is the first step toward providing reliable public transportation in rural communities, enabling residents to get to work, attend school and access essential services,” said The Honourable Wayne Long, Secretary of State for Canada Revenue Agency and Financial Institutions, and Member of Parliament for Saint John—Kennebecasis
PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND
Ernie Hudson named P.E.I. transportation, infrastructure and energy minister
The day after the PC government lost a member of cabinet, a new transportation, infrastructure and energy minister has been appointed to replace him.
The issue arose during April 24’s question period when the government was asked about who was replacing Sidney MacEwen, who stepped down from the job.
It was learned that Ernie Hudson has taken on the portfolio, along with his previous role of minister of fisheries, rural development and tourism.
The government later made the announcement in a news release, which said Hudson will assume the responsi-
bilities of the Transportation, Infrastructure and Energy Department immediately.
MacEwen stepped down because he was not able to put his lobster fishing fleet in a trust or get a substitute operator for his licence, which goes against provincial conflict of interest rules.
Premier Rob Lantz was serving as interim minister after MacEwen’s resignation from cabinet.
As of deadline, no public swearing-in ceremony had been announced.
NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR
Ministerial Statement: Early road tenders lead to early start of road construction season
The following statement was given April 27 in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Barry Petten, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure:
Speaker, as of today 27 tenders for road infrastructure work have been issued, representing an estimated $143 million in investment throughout the province.
This reflects strong early momentum under the province’s Roads Plan and
demonstrates our commitment to delivering safe, reliable transportation infrastructure for communities and businesses.
Speaker, this is the earliest point in the construction season that this volume of road tenders has been issued, providing contractors with greater certainty and enabling work to begin sooner. Importantly, a number of these tenders have already been awarded, ensuring projects are moving quickly from planning to construction and creating immediate economic activity.
Early tendering supports better project scheduling, improved value for taxpayers, and increased competition within the construction sector. It also helps maximize the short construction season, particularly in rural and remote areas where timely access to safe roads is essential.
This work directly aligns with our government’s commitment to safer communities, including safer roads. By investing early and strategically in road infrastructure, we are improving transportation safety, supporting economic growth, and strengthening connections that residents rely on every day.
NOVUS® Polish Unveils AquaClear – A New Standard in Advanced Glass Treatment
This innovative technology delivers superior clarity, safety, and convenience for glass surfaces everywhere.
Key Features and Benefits:
NOVUS® Polish, a part of the Fix Network family of brands, is proud to announce the official launch of AquaClear, an advanced glass treatment engineered to deliver unmatched clarity, safety, and convenience for glass surfaces in vehicles, homes, and commercial spaces worldwide.
AquaClear is now available for purchase and use by automotive service providers, residential and commercial property professionals, as well as consumers. Developed to exceed the highest standards of performance, AquaClear introduces breakthrough glass-derived water-repellent technology that sets it apart from traditional silicone-based products currently on the market. Unlike silicone coatings that sit on top of the glass and degrade quickly, AquaClear’s formula bonds directly with the glass surface at a molecular level, resulting in dramatically longer- lasting protection, superior optical clarity, and consistent performance in all weather conditions.
• Premium Performance: AquaClear’s innovative glass-integrated formula provides long-lasting waterbeading protection that outperforms conventional silicone coatings. By becoming a part of the glass surface rather than forming a temporary film, AquaClear maintains exceptional clarity and visibility, even after repeated wiper use, washing, and exposure to harsh environments.
• Effortless Application: Designed for quick, clean, and convenient use on windshields, shower glass, and other glass surfaces. No special tools or training required.
• Versatile Use: Effective on windshields, side windows, mirrors, glass doors, and more.
• Eco-Friendly: AquaClear contains no heavy or dangerous materials, making it gentle for both users and the environment.
“Launching AquaClear marks a significant milestone for NOVUS® Polish and our commitment to safety, innovation, and customer experience,” said Louis Tremblay, Vice President Operations, Products Division of Fix Network. “By moving beyond traditional silicone - based repellents and introducing a glass - derived formula, we’re delivering a product that not only enhances visibility but also aligns with our values of sustainability and operational excellence.”
AquaClear’s introduction reflects NOVUS® Polish’s dedication to delivering advanced solutions for glass care and visibility enhancement. This launch complements the broader NOVUS® portfolio of products designed to meet the evolving needs of automotive professionals, property managers, and consumers worldwide.
AquaClear is available for purchase at NOVUSpolish.com, on Amazon, or email info@srpproducts.com for wholesale pricing.
Join the Team Driving Atlantic Canada’s Auto and Trucking Stories!
Advertising representatives
Auto and Trucking Atlantic — the region’s trusted voice for over 30 years — is on the hunt for a dynamic, commission-based Advertising Sales Representative who can steer new partnerships and accelerate business growth.
Do you have the drive to close deals, the charm to build long-term relationships, and a passion for the automotive or trucking world? We want to hear from you!
What you’ll do:
• Connect with businesses and advertisers to build meaningful relationships.
• Sell advertising space in digital editions of our respected publication along with other occasional publishing projects.
• Work independently, manage your own territory, and reap the rewards of your success.
What you bring:
• Experience in magazine or media sales is a strong asset.
• Stellar communication and negotiation skills.
• A good understanding of — or keen interest in — the automotive and trucking industries.
• Entrepreneurial energy and a self-starter attitude.
Join a brand that’s been at the heart of Atlantic Canada’s vehicle scene — from aftermarket news to environmental shifts and community events. Help us keep readers and businesses moving forward!
To apply, send your resume and a brief note about what drives you to: rob@autoatlantic.com
Freelance writers
If you love cars, trucks, and everything that moves, we want your words! From major auto shows and industry innovations to profiles of the people driving change, this is your chance to share stories that keep readers in gear.
What we’re looking for:
• A flair for idea generation and storytelling.
• Comfort covering events, interviewing industry leaders, and writing features.
• Strong writing, editing, and time management skills.
• Genuine enthusiasm for the automotive and trucking sectors.
If you’ve got the discipline, drive, and writing chops to match, we’d love to see what you can do!
Send us your details and three writing samples to carter@autoatlantic.com
STARS IN CARS
Micah’s many miles
By Carter Hammett
A fixture on international stages for decades, singer Micah Barnes has done it all and in the process, driven many miles.
While living in Venice Beach California in 1977, a friend dying of cancer handed singer Micah Barnes the keys to his half-ton Ford pick up truck. “It’s yours,” he said. Essentially a jazz singer, the truck made Barnes go against type and lent a blue collar vibe to his cabaret stylings. Although “Steve’s purple heart license plate got me a lot of love from strangers.
“I learned how to drive at 30 so I could drive in L.A.,” he says.
Barnes smiles fondly at the memory, immediately recalling another tale of that same pickup truck that got stuck atop an Arizona mountain during a torrential snowstorm.
“Hippy prayers and Steve watching over got me out of that predicament,”
he laughs.
Indeed, there have been many adventures Barnes, 65, has experienced both on- and- off the road. The son of noted composer Milton Barnes and writer Lilly Barnes–who was a script writer for beloved children’s show Mr. Dress Up–Barnes has literally had art genetically encoded into his DNA.
Perhaps best known as a member of the A Capella singing group The Nylons, of which he was a member from 1990-1996, Barnes has also had turns as a dance club artist with a number 1 Billboard hit, “Welcome to My Head” in 2003. He’s acted in TV shows like E.N.G. and Katts and Dog and also works as an in-demand vocal coach for wide variety of shows. Most recently he’s returned to his jazz roots in a series of acclaimed performances and recordings, including Vegas Breeze, which perched atop the Jazz Charts upon release in 2020.
His various incarnations have placed him on the road, often in limos, often driving himself.
“Lots of musicians have romantic associations on the road,” he says, “you take lots of internal journeys on the road too.
“When you’re unhooked you’re not answering to anyone; you only have yourself and lots of time for self-reflection,” he says. “Things come up: ‘Am I happy? What do I want?
“The motion of passing landscape creates lots of soul searching,” he says. I use the time to write lyrics and
it offers the opportunity to express the deepest truths in music. It also gives me time to reflect on my personal life: wants, dreams; there’s lots of thinking and turning over events in my life.”
These days Barnes is back on tour with a show, Up on the Roof, that tells his story as a 12-year-old singing jazz standards through a journey of self-acceptance that includes highlights from his stint with The Nylons. It doesn’t shy away from some of the challenges either, including the death of one of his partners. The show will take him from Calgary to Charlottetown P.E.I. this summer.
He’s also working on an as-yet untitled new album that pays tribute to the soul artists he grew up listening to, including Aretha Franklin, Al Green, Marvin Gaye and others. The album is slated for a 2027 release.
“I’m a very gregarious person., When I have enforced isolation it serves me well–I’m not lonely–if you want a healthy artist you need periods of selfexamination.”
For more info or to get tickets, visit micahbarnes.com
