#263 - The Ford GT3 is All But Confirmed, BMW Says Bye to Manuals, and Safaris for Car Enthusiasts!

First, we discuss how Florida's Governor DeSantis has signed a bill blocking direct-to-consumer car sales. The bill, written by lobbyists for the Florida Automobile Dealers Association, restricts automakers' control over dealer inventory and prices. However, exceptions were negotiated for Tesla and other electric startups. Dealers argue that they play a crucial role in providing customer service and warranty work.

Next, we shift our focus to Oregon, where the state has passed a bill allowing Oregonians to pump their own gas. While full-service fueling won't be eliminated, gas stations can designate up to half of their pumps as self-serve. Populous counties will still require at least one attendant, and gas prices will be the same for self-serve and full-service pumps.

Moving on, we share an amusing story about Porsche CEO Oliver Blume camping in a rooftop tent on a 911 Turbo S during the Le Mans race. The tent, designed for various Porsche models, comes with comfortable amenities and bears the iconic Porsche branding.

In another segment, we discuss the sighting of a road version of the Ford Mustang GT3, featuring a wide body and center-exit exhaust. Spy shots reveal design cues and tire sidewalls resembling Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 R tires. The car's front-end remains heavily camouflaged, hinting at aggressive aerodynamics.

Lastly, we touch upon BMW M's transition away from manual and twin-clutch gearboxes. The twin-clutch gearbox won't make a comeback, and the recently launched M2 is expected to be the last manual M car. BMW M is favoring automatic transmissions for factors such as cost and comfort.

We conclude with a look at Circuit Safaris, an exciting fan experience in Japan's World Endurance Championship and Atlanta Motorsports Park. Fans can enter a lottery for a chance to buy tickets and witness race cars up close. While the event presents risks, it has been deemed a success by the WEC and FIA.