GM's profits have risen by 22%, thanks to trucks: TDS.

      General Motors

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      Good morning and welcome to The Downshift, or TDS for short.

      Concise and informative, TDS compiles the latest car news from around the world and presents them in one location. Each story is summarized in a single sentence with a link for those wanting more details.

      The first cup of coffee is finished, the second is ready, and it's nearly time to get the kids up for school. Let’s dive in.

      🚘 What I’m driving: This week, I'm fulfilling my teenage dream with the 2026 Audi RS6 Avant Performance. The twin-turbo V8 packed into a wagon with quattro all-wheel drive is a dream come true, and initial impressions suggest it doesn't disappoint. What a car—though it comes with a price tag of $160,390 as configured.

      💰 General Motors has reported a 22% profit increase due to strong truck and SUV sales in the U.S., even with rising fuel prices; the automaker has raised its profit forecast for 2026 by $500 million, equal to what it expects to recover from the U.S. Supreme Court ruling that overturned the Trump administration’s tariffs.

      📈 The conflict in Iran and unrest in the Middle East have driven up oil and gas prices, leading to a global surge in EV purchases in March.

      🐬 Caterham has created a special limited edition Seven R, making its debut at the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix this weekend; only 12 of these lightweight blue sports cars will be produced.

      ⚠️ Foreign car manufacturers are threatening to withdraw their economy models from the U.S. if a trade agreement with Mexico and Canada is not reached.

      🏷️ Bollinger's assets are set to be auctioned following the company’s downfall.

      ☘️ The next-generation Alfa Romeo Giulia and Stelvio are now expected to arrive in 2028 on the STLA Large platform, featuring both electric and hybrid drivetrains.

      💸 Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe earned a record $402.6 million for 2025, which includes over $373 million in option awards, more than $26 million in stock awards, and around $1.1 million in salary; most of this compensation is linked to Rivian meeting various performance benchmarks.

      📱 While screens may be the future, Mercedes-Benz has taken note of consumer feedback and is not eliminating screens altogether but will reintroduce some toggles and buttons on steering wheels.

      Have a news tip or feedback? Reach out to us at tips@thedrive.com.