Wheel Bearings is a podcast about cars and transportation hosted by Sam Abuelsamid, Nicole Wakelin and Roberto Baldwin

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/5/14/1/1c906078-4640-4113-807a-b04d481f9135_wb_349_-_a_little_digital_kiss.mp3

Robbie is back from Japan and driving the BMW i5 M60. Nicole jumps from last week&#39;s Suburban into the Nissan Altima and Sam had the Cadillac Lyriq with new better door handles and fully functional software.In the news, will Rivian partner with Apple on something? Infotainment, ADAS? Will the US impose 100% tarrifs on Chinese made EVs? Ford is scaling back orders for EV batteries, but how much are they really losing per electric vehicle? On the combustion side, nearly 1/4 of F-150s are now hybrids. The aftermath of Tesla gutting its charging team is still playing out as other companies scramble to pick up the pieces. Cadillac has a new documentary about its Le Mans racing program and Hyundai steps in to save Motional and its automated driving efforts. Finally ZF had a technology demo day and Sam got to try out some cool stuff.Wheel Bearings listeners get an extra 3 months for free when they sign up ExpressVPN at <a href="https://www.expressvpn.com/wheelbearings" rel="nofollow">https://www.expressvpn.com/wheelbearings</a> Thanks to ExpressVPN and listeners for supporting Wheel BearingsLinks<a href="https://www.pcmag.com/news/why-would-apple-consider-a-rivian-partnership-ceo-points-to-software" rel="nofollow">Apple and Rivian to partner?</a><a href="https://www.reuters.com/business/us-set-impose-tariffs-china-evs-certain-strategic-sectors-bloomberg-reports-2024-05-10/" rel="nofollow">100% Tariffs on Chinese EVs?</a><a href="https://www.autonews.com/automakers-suppliers/ford-losing-100000-ev-report-says" rel="nofollow">Ford Cuts Battery Orders, How Much Are They Really Losing on EVs?</a><a href="https://www.autonews.com/automakers-suppliers/ford-ceo-jim-farley-f-150-hybrid-mix-approaching-25" rel="nofollow">Nearly 1/4 of F-150s now hybrid</a><a href="https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2024/05/electric-cars-tesla-supercharger-adapter/678346/?gift=PUFP-ZYlrQ-C6Z1GVEwixOt4BLY0z4alEWcpXT3ZulQ&utm_campaign=share&utm_medium=social&utm_source=copy-link" rel="nofollow">It&#39;s all about the charging</a><a href="https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/bp-looking-buy-teslas-supercharger-sites-us-bloomberg-news-reports-2024-05-09/" rel="nofollow">BP Pulse and Shell interested in Supercharger sites</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hnIjROQusIY" rel="nofollow">No Perfect Formula Trailer</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WzeiBwlIf1c" rel="nofollow">Trying to get a speeding ticket in a slow car</a><a href="https://www.motortrend.com/events/zfs-next-generation-mobility-days-new-tech-evs-braking-heat-pump-steering/" rel="nofollow">ZF Demo Day</a><a href="https://techcrunch.com/2024/05/02/hyundai-is-spending-close-to-1-billion-to-keep-self-driving-startup-motional-alive/" rel="nofollow">Hyundai spending nearly $1B to keep Motional driving</a><a href="https://carbuzz.com/turbocharged-2024-nissan-altima-perfect-trim-opinion/" rel="nofollow">Nissan Altima Review</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out Express VPN: www.expressvpn.com Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

A Little Digital Kiss

Robbie is back from Japan and driving the BMW i5 M60. Nicole jumps from last week's Suburban into the Nissan Altima and Sam had the Cadillac Lyriq with new better door handles and fully functional software. 

In the news, will Rivian partner with Apple on something? Infotainment, ADAS? Will the US impose 100% tarrifs on Chinese made EVs? Ford is scaling back orders for EV batteries, but how much are they really losing per electric vehicle? On the combustion side, nearly 1/4 of F-150s are now hybrids. The aftermath of Tesla gutting its charging team is still playing out as other companies scramble to pick up the pieces. Cadillac has a new documentary about its Le Mans racing program and Hyundai steps in to save Motional and its automated driving efforts. Finally ZF had a technology demo day and Sam got to try out some cool stuff. 

Links

Apple and Rivian to partner?
100% Tariffs on Chinese EVs?
Ford Cuts Battery Orders, How Much Are They Really Losing on EVs?
Nearly 1/4 of F-150s now hybrid
It's all about the charging
BP Pulse and Shell interested in Supercharger sites
No Perfect Formula Trailer
Trying to get a speeding ticket in a slow car
ZF Demo Day
Hyundai spending nearly $1B to keep Motional driving

Nissan Altima Review

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https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/5/5/16/75e0663d-0e86-4c96-8992-cccc3ce3d85b_wb_348_-_the_girl_in_the_trunk.mp3

As Robbie and his wife celebrate 18 years of marriage with a vacation in Japan, we&#39;re joined this week by our friend Jill Ciminillo. Jill shares her thoughts on one of the most affordable new cars still offered for sale in the US, the Nissan Versa SR. Nicole hwas been driving something nearly large enough to hold a Versa inside, the Chevrolet Suburban High Country and Sam has the Infiniti QX55 with its silly dual screen infotainment system.We also have a first drive review of the new 2024 Chevrolet Traverse and a discussion of why Mercedes-Benz won&#39;t be adopting the next-generation Apple Carplay. That rolls into a discussion of GM&#39;s decision to drop Carplay support from its EVs. NHTSA is looking into why there were two fatal crashes of vehicles running Ford&#39;s hands-free BlueCruise system. Tesla has fired its whole Charging team. By 2029 all new vehicles in the US will need automatic emergency braking systems capable of working at speeds up to 90 mph. The woes for Fisker Ocean owners continue with a lack of parts availability.Links<a href="https://wheelbearings.media/2024/05/02/first-drive-2024-chevrolet-traverse-better-in-every-way/" rel="nofollow">2024 Chevrolet Traverse</a><a href="https://www.theverge.com/2024/4/29/24144356/mercedes-benz-ceo-apple-carplay-next-gen-decoder" rel="nofollow">Mercedes-Benz Won&#39;t Let CarPlay Take Over</a><a href="https://www.autoblog.com/2024/04/29/nhtsa-ford-bluecruise-investigation-fatal-crashes/" rel="nofollow">NHTSA Investigating BlueCruise</a><a href="https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/teslas-musk-trims-senior-management-amid-more-layoffs-information-reports-2024-04-30/" rel="nofollow">Tesla fires supercharger team</a><a href="https://techcrunch.com/2024/04/30/elon-musk-tesla-charging-policy-layoffs-cuts/" rel="nofollow">Tesla fires supercharger team</a><a href="https://www.theverge.com/2024/4/30/24145182/automatic-emergency-braking-vehicle-rule-usdot-crash" rel="nofollow">AEB up to 90 mph to be mandatory by 2029</a><a href="https://www.autoblog.com/2024/04/30/fisker-ocean-door-ding-nightmare/" rel="nofollow">Fisker Ocean totalled over a $910 door ding</a><a href="https://www.thedrive.com/news/fiskers-parting-out-prototypes-and-unsold-stock-to-fix-customer-cars-report" rel="nofollow">Fisker cannibalizing prototypes for service parts</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELcynEyDBmg" rel="nofollow">Chevy Blazer EV infotainment demo </a> Our Sponsors: * Check out Express VPN: www.expressvpn.com Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

The Girl In The Trunk

As Robbie and his wife celebrate 18 years of marriage with a vacation in Japan, we're joined this week by our friend Jill Ciminillo. Jill shares her thoughts on one of the most affordable new cars still offered for sale in the US, the Nissan Versa SR. Nicole hwas been driving something nearly large enough to hold a Versa inside, the Chevrolet Suburban High Country and Sam has the Infiniti QX55 with its silly dual screen infotainment system. 

We also have a first drive review of the new 2024 Chevrolet Traverse and a discussion of why Mercedes-Benz won't be adopting the next-generation Apple Carplay. That rolls into a discussion of GM's decision to drop Carplay support from its EVs. NHTSA is looking into why there were two fatal crashes of vehicles running Ford's hands-free BlueCruise system. Tesla has fired its whole Charging team. By 2029 all new vehicles in the US will need automatic emergency braking systems capable of working at speeds up to 90 mph. The woes for Fisker Ocean owners continue with a lack of parts availability. 

Links

2024 Chevrolet Traverse
Mercedes-Benz Won't Let CarPlay Take Over
NHTSA Investigating BlueCruise
Tesla fires supercharger team
Tesla fires supercharger team
AEB up to 90 mph to be mandatory by 2029
Fisker Ocean totalled over a $910 door ding
Fisker cannibalizing prototypes for service parts

Chevy Blazer EV infotainment demo

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https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/4/27/18/60f8893d-902f-4bbc-b425-6b6b1ba253f1_wb_347_-_finding_the_hidden_charge_port.mp3

Nicole is back and she shares her impressions of driving a Lynk&amp;Co 01 that she and her husband rented in France during their vacation. Robbie will have more to share next week about the BMW i5 and Sam has driven the Land Rover Defender 110 and Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray.In the news, the Ram TRX has been shelved for now, but Ram has a six-cylinder powered version called the RHO. Mercedes-Benz has revealed an all-electric version of the new G-Wagen with four motors. There were several interesting reveals at the 2024 Beijing Motor Show and some of them might make it to North America. The Mini Aceman is all electric, but it doesn&#39;t directly replace the discontinued Clubman. The Mazda EZ-6 is a great looking electric sedan that should come to America along with the Buick Electra L and LT. While the design of the Toyota bZ4X is polarizing, the bZ3C and bZ3X are much more appealing. Honda and its partners will invest $11 billion into an EV production ecosystem in Alliston, Ontario and NHTSA has closed one Tesla Autopilot investigation and opened up another.Links<a href="https://www.lynkco.com/en/car" rel="nofollow">Lynk &amp; Co 01</a><a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/samabuelsamid/2024/04/25/the-2025-ram-1500-rho-may-not-be-a-trx-but-its-not-far-off/" rel="nofollow">2025 Ram 1500 RHO</a><a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2024/04/26/tesla-autopilot-linked-to-hundreds-of-collisions-has-critical-safety-gap-nhtsa.html" rel="nofollow">Tesla Autopilot has caused hundreds of crashes, dozens of fatalities</a><a href="https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/usa/article/detail/T0441393EN_US/the-new-mini-aceman" rel="nofollow">Mini Aceman</a><a href="https://www.motortrend.com/news/mazda-ez6-sedan-arata-suv-beijing-auto-show-china/" rel="nofollow">Mazda EZ-6</a><a href="https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/corporate/40761627.html" rel="nofollow">Toyota BZ3C and BZ3X</a><a href="https://www.motortrend.com/news/buick-electra-l-lt-sedan-wagon-concepts-china-beijing/" rel="nofollow">Buick Electra L, LT concepts</a><a href="https://hondanews.com/en-US/honda-corporate/releases/honda-plans-to-establish-comprehensive-electric-vehicle-value-chain-in-ontario-canada" rel="nofollow">Honda $11B investment in Canada EV production</a><a href="https://media.mbusa.com/releases/release-702899e3c231de1fbdf6e3deae69a372-the-gelandewagen-electrified" rel="nofollow">Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen EQ</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out Express VPN: www.expressvpn.com Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Finding The Hidden Charge Port

Nicole is back and she shares her impressions of driving a Lynk&Co 01 that she and her husband rented in France during their vacation. Robbie will have more to share next week about the BMW i5 and Sam has driven the Land Rover Defender 110 and Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray.

In the news, the Ram TRX has been shelved for now, but Ram has a six-cylinder powered version called the RHO. Mercedes-Benz has revealed an all-electric version of the new G-Wagen with four motors. There were several interesting reveals at the 2024 Beijing Motor Show and some of them might make it to North America. The Mini Aceman is all electric, but it doesn't directly replace the discontinued Clubman. The Mazda EZ-6 is a great looking electric sedan that should come to America along with the Buick Electra L and LT. While the design of the Toyota bZ4X is polarizing, the bZ3C and bZ3X are much more appealing. Honda and its partners will invest $11 billion into an EV production ecosystem in Alliston, Ontario and NHTSA has closed one Tesla Autopilot investigation and opened up another. 

Links

Lynk & Co 01
2025 Ram 1500 RHO
Tesla Autopilot has caused hundreds of crashes, dozens of fatalities
Mini Aceman
Mazda EZ-6
Toyota BZ3C and BZ3X
Buick Electra L, LT concepts
Honda $11B investment in Canada EV production
Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen EQ

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https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/4/21/21/c3e273ab-967b-4dfd-847b-a41a72e747f9_wb_346_-_no_soap_please.mp3

Nicole is still cruising European rivers so it&#39;s just the boys this week. Robbie drove the Range Rover Sport and used a Ford Transit to get his bands to Salt Lake City for a couple of shows (hence why there was no episode last week). Sam has been driving the Subaru CrossTrek Wilderness.In the news, VW workers in Tennessee join the UAW, and Mercedes-Benz is voting next. Toyota launches a 6th gen 4Runner. Sam sees the BMW Vision Neue Klasse X in person and talks with Designworks CEO Julia de Bono. Kia is testing the EV3 and it may sticker for under $35,000. GM launches its vehicle to home charging products. Alfa Romeo unveils its first EV as the Milano and almost immediately changes the name. Back in the 1980s, Porsche was developing a Miata competitor before the Mazda launched. Maserati shows off the stunning Gran Cabrio Folgore and Honda is launching a new design language for its Ye EVs in China.Links<a href="https://media.vw.com/en-us/releases/1794" rel="nofollow">VW Workers in Tennessee Vote for UAW, M-B next?</a><a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/samabuelsamid/2024/04/09/2025-4runner-rounds-out-toyotas-off-road-suv-lineup/" rel="nofollow">2025 Toyota 4Runner</a><a href="https://www.bmwblog.com/2024/04/19/unique-designs-for-future-neue-klasse-sedans-and-suvs/" rel="nofollow">BMW Vision Neue Klasse X</a><a href="https://www.theverge.com/2024/4/19/24134753/tesla-recall-cybertruck-faulty-accelerator-pedal-nhtsa-defect" rel="nofollow">Soapy Cybertruck Recall</a><a href="https://www.autonews.com/cars-concepts/will-kia-ev3-cost-under-35000" rel="nofollow">Kia EV3 may be under $35,000</a><a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/samabuelsamid/2024/04/18/gm-launches-vehicle-to-home-charging-bundle-for-ultium-evs/" rel="nofollow">GM Launches V2H products</a><a href="https://www.media.stellantis.com/em-en/alfa-romeo/press/alfa-romeo-milano-name-is-not-ok-alfa-romeo-junior-then" rel="nofollow">Alfa Romeo Launches Milano EV, Quickly Renames it Junior</a><a href="https://jalopnik.com/the-world-would-be-a-better-place-if-porsche-had-built-1851422266" rel="nofollow">What if Porsche built a Miata Competitor?</a><a href="https://jalopnik.com/take-a-look-at-maseratis-glorious-electric-grancabrio-f-1851410732" rel="nofollow">Maserati Gran Cabrio Folgore</a><a href="https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/honda-unwraps-new-ye-series-evs-including-sleek-gt" rel="nofollow">Honda Ye EVs for China</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out Express VPN: www.expressvpn.com Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Nicole is still cruising European rivers so it's just the boys this week. Robbie drove the Range Rover Sport and used a Ford Transit to get his bands to Salt Lake City for a couple of shows (hence why there was no episode last week). Sam has been driving the Subaru CrossTrek Wilderness. 

In the news, VW workers in Tennessee join the UAW, and Mercedes-Benz is voting next. Toyota launches a 6th gen 4Runner. Sam sees the BMW Vision Neue Klasse X in person and talks with Designworks CEO Julia de Bono. Kia is testing the EV3 and it may sticker for under $35,000. GM launches its vehicle to home charging products. Alfa Romeo unveils its first EV as the Milano and almost immediately changes the name. Back in the 1980s, Porsche was developing a Miata competitor before the Mazda launched. Maserati shows off the stunning Gran Cabrio Folgore and Honda is launching a new design language for its Ye EVs in China. 

Links

VW Workers in Tennessee Vote for UAW, M-B next?
2025 Toyota 4Runner
BMW Vision Neue Klasse X
Soapy Cybertruck Recall
Kia EV3 may be under $35,000
GM Launches V2H products
Alfa Romeo Launches Milano EV, Quickly Renames it Junior
What if Porsche built a Miata Competitor?
Maserati Gran Cabrio Folgore
Honda Ye EVs for China

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No Soap Please

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This week Nicole and her husband compare the 2024 Jeep Wrangler 4XE to their 2022 model that they own. Robbie takes the Kia EV9 on a snowboarding trip and is unimpressed by the new Lincoln Nautilus. Sam drives the 2024 Polestar 2 dual motor performance model.Nicole shares her impressions of driving the updated Jeep Gladiator in Moab and Hyundai has unveiled a race version of the Ioniq 5 N. Friend of the show Alex Dykes shares his impressions of a Fisker Ocean he rented on Turo. Chevrolet officially prices the Silverado EV RST first edition and cuts the price by $10K from what was originally announced while JerryRigEverything goes 460 miles on a charge. Tesla kills its $25K car to focus on a robotaxi and Ford delays its next EVs by up to 2 years. Our friend Tommy Mica from TFL decides to driving his 1915 Model T in the snow and a listener asks about a Mitsubishi pickup truck in California.Links<a href="https://www.hyundainews.com/en-us/releases/4115" rel="nofollow">IONIQ 5 N eN1 Cup car</a><a href="https://carbuzz.com/2024-jeep-gladiator-first-drive-review-new-look-new-features/" rel="nofollow">2024 Jeep Gladiator</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OlsNWDrCVJc" rel="nofollow">Alex on Fisker, 12V problems and broken vents</a><a href="https://youtu.be/WqzApRm0nis?si=6Ef034QNm60be4Fh" rel="nofollow">460 Miles in the Silverado EV RST</a><a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/samabuelsamid/2024/04/03/2024-chevrolet-silverado-ev-rst-to-start-at-96495-this-summer/" rel="nofollow">Chevy Cuts Silverado EV RST price by $10K</a>Tesla scraps $25K EV<a href="https://media.ford.com/content/fordmedia/fna/us/en/news/2024/04/04/ford-updates-timing-for-next-gen-evs--readies-manufacturing-plan.html" rel="nofollow">Ford delays next-gen EVs up to 2 years</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HETIs1ehz9A" rel="nofollow">Driving a Model T in the snow</a><a href="https://www.mitsubishi-motors.com/en/products/triton/" rel="nofollow">Mitsubishi Triton</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out Express VPN: www.expressvpn.com Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Still Too Much

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/3/30/14/5f326232-3c57-49e1-985d-e8475e12e58e_wb_344_-_faster_than_magma.mp3

This week, friend of the show Perry Stern is filling in for Robbie and he&#39;s been driving the Mercedes-AMG GLB. Nicole tries out the latest variant of Honda&#39;s pickup truck the off-road-ish Ridgeline Trailsport and Sam has the Acura TLX Type-S.Perry went to the New York for the Auto Show this week and gives us a rundown on what he saw including the new Genesis Neolun concept and the GV60 Magma performance model. Kia also unveiled the new entry level K4 sedan and teased an upcoming hatchback version. Hyundai showed off mid-cycle refreshes for the Tucson and Santa Cruz that look a bit more truckish and bring back the buttons on the center stack. Nissan also unveiled a new version of the Kicks and the Infiniti QX80.Instead of New York, Nicole went to Moab for the Easter Jeep Safari and got to try out a bunch of cool Jeep concepts. Fisker is inching closer to bankruptcy and BMW has a new Neue Klasse SUV concept. For those concerned about buying used EVs, Cox has a new battery health reporting tool and Chinese phone maker Xiaomi is getting into the EV game with the SU7 sedan.Links<a href="https://jalopnik.com/fisker-is-running-out-of-options-as-stock-trading-halts-1851363538" rel="nofollow">Fisker almost done</a><a href="https://techcrunch.com/2024/03/27/fisker-misplaced-payments-internal-audit-bankruptcy/" rel="nofollow">Fisker couldn&#39;t track millions in payments</a><a href="https://www.genesisnewsusa.com/en-us/releases/354" rel="nofollow">Genesis Neolum and GV60 Magma</a><a href="https://www.hyundainews.com/releases/4110" rel="nofollow">2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz</a><a href="https://www.hyundainews.com/releases/4109" rel="nofollow">2025 Hyundai Tucson</a><a href="https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/usa/article/detail/T0440371EN_US/first-look-at-neue-klasse-as-sav:-the-bmw-vision-neue-klasse-x" rel="nofollow">BMW Vision Neue Klasse X</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TWcyMWuwgLk" rel="nofollow">Jeep Gladiator Mojave in Moab</a><a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cox-automotive-deploying-industry-first-vin-specific-ev-battery-health-solution-across-manheim-locations-302101161.html" rel="nofollow">Cox rolling out battery health reports to Manheim auctions</a><a href="https://www.autoblog.com/2024/03/28/chinas-latest-ev-is-a-connected-car-from-smartphone-and-electronics-maker-xiaomi/" rel="nofollow">Xiaomi SU7</a><a href="https://www.autoblog.com/2024/03/28/chinas-latest-ev-is-a-connected-car-from-smartphone-and-electronics-maker-xiaomi/" rel="nofollow">Kia K4</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out Express VPN: www.expressvpn.com Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Faster than Magma

This week, friend of the show Perry Stern is filling in for Robbie and he's been driving the Mercedes-AMG GLB. Nicole tries out the latest variant of Honda's pickup truck the off-road-ish Ridgeline Trailsport and Sam has the Acura TLX Type-S.

Perry went to the New York for the Auto Show this week and gives us a rundown on what he saw including the new Genesis Neolun concept and the GV60 Magma performance model. Kia also unveiled the new entry level K4 sedan and teased an upcoming hatchback version. Hyundai showed off mid-cycle refreshes for the Tucson and Santa Cruz that look a bit more truckish and bring back the buttons on the center stack. Nissan also unveiled a new version of the Kicks and the Infiniti QX80. 

Instead of New York, Nicole went to Moab for the Easter Jeep Safari and got to try out a bunch of cool Jeep concepts. Fisker is inching closer to bankruptcy and BMW has a new Neue Klasse SUV concept. For those concerned about buying used EVs, Cox has a new battery health reporting tool and Chinese phone maker Xiaomi is getting into the EV game with the SU7 sedan. 

Links

Fisker almost done
Fisker couldn't track millions in payments
Genesis Neolum and GV60 Magma
2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz
2025 Hyundai Tucson
BMW Vision Neue Klasse X
Jeep Gladiator Mojave in Moab
Cox rolling out battery health reports to Manheim auctions
Xiaomi SU7
Kia K4

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Faster Than Magma

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/3/24/16/d6c57a75-b7fc-48c2-a4e9-5fc49e605281_wb_343_-_jumping_raptors.mp3

While Robbie is off doing some late winter snow boarding, Nicole and Sam are holding down the fort. Nicole has been driving Buick&#39;s new entry level model, the Envista and the Hyundai Palisade. Meanwhile Sam had the new Toyota Prius Limited AWD and the very pricey Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV.Nicole gives a preview of the concepts coming up at this year&#39;s Easter Jeep Safari in Moab. We&#39;ve got a first drive review of the blocky new Hyundai Santa Fe with some more rigorous off-roading than the last Hyundai SUV we tried. We also drive the new Ford Ranger and Ranger Raptor. The New York Auto Show is coming up this week and none of us will be there so of course there are some interesting vehicle launches. Nissan has both ends of its product lineup covered with a second-generation Kicks crossover and an all-new Infiniti QX80 that really steps up its game in the big luxury SUV segment. Kia also has a new entry model with the new K4 sedan replacing the Forte. After the uproar over the news that GM was sharing driver data with data brokers, GM has decided to halt that new approach to monetization.While attending Nvidia GTC in San Jose, Sam took some time to ride Waymo robotaxis in San Francisco and then sat down in the new Volvo EX90 with the Swedish automaker&#39;s head of software engineering Alwin Bakennes. Finally, we answer some listener questions.Links<a href="https://carbuzz.com/2024-hyundai-santa-fe-first-drive-review-bigger-is-better/" rel="nofollow">2024 Hyundai Santa Fe</a><a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/samabuelsamid/2024/03/19/first-drive-2024-ford-ranger-aims-to-take-on-class-leading-tacoma/" rel="nofollow">2024 Ford Ranger</a><a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/samabuelsamid/2024/03/21/2024-ford-ranger-raptor/" rel="nofollow">2024 Ford Ranger Raptor</a><a href="https://usa.infinitinews.com/en-US/releases/infiniti-takes-luxury-to-new-heights-with-dramatic-reveal-of-all-new-2025-infiniti-qx80?utm_campaign=INFINITI+takes+luxury+to+new+heights+with+dramatic+reveal+of+all-new+2025+INFINITI+QX80&utm_content=INFINITI+takes+luxury+to+new+heights+with+dramatic+reveal+of+all-new+2025+INFINITI+QX80+CID_05d636340158fd8cdeb3216dfb172e06&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Email+Blast+CM&utm_term=READ+MORE" rel="nofollow">2025 Infiniti QX80</a><a href="https://www.kiamedia.com/us/en/media/pressreleases/21949/power-to-progress-kia-k4-next-generation-compact-sedan-sets-new-design-standards" rel="nofollow">2025 Kia K4</a><a href="https://usa.nissannews.com/en-US/releases/box-fresh-all-new-2025-nissan-kicks-unveiled-at-barclays-center-in-brooklyn" rel="nofollow">2025 Nissan Kicks</a><a href="https://arstechnica.com/cars/2024/03/gm-stops-sharing-driver-data-with-brokers-amid-backlash/#:~:text=After%20public%20outcry%2C%20General%20Motors,shared%20with%20LexisNexis%20and%20Verisk." rel="nofollow">GM stops data sharing</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=1s&v=Ls2ZjUO-XKY" rel="nofollow">Riding with Waymo</a><a href="https://youtu.be/EyepY96P3e4" rel="nofollow">Running the Ranger Raptor in the desert</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out Express VPN: www.expressvpn.com Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Jumping Raptors

While Robbie is off doing some late winter snow boarding, Nicole and Sam are holding down the fort. Nicole has been driving Buick's new entry level model, the Envista and the Hyundai Palisade. Meanwhile Sam had the new Toyota Prius Limited AWD and the very pricey Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV. 

We've got a first drive review of the blocky new Hyundai Santa Fe with some more rigorous off-roading than the last Hyundai SUV we tried. We also drive the new Ford Ranger and Ranger Raptor. The New York Auto Show is coming up this week and none of us will be there so of course there are some interesting vehicle launches. Nissan has both ends of its product lineup covered with a second-generation Kicks crossover and an all-new Infiniti QX80 that really steps up its game in the big luxury SUV segment. Kia also has a new entry model with the new K4 sedan replacing the Forte. After the uproar over the news that GM was sharing driver data with data brokers, GM has decided to halt that new approach to monetization. 

While attending Nvidia GTC in San Jose, Sam took some time to ride Waymo robotaxis in San Francisco and then sat down in the new Volvo EX90 with the Swedish automaker's head of software engineering Alwin Bakennes. Finally, we answer some listener questions. 

Links

2024 Hyundai Santa Fe
2024 Ford Ranger
2024 Ford Ranger Raptor
2025 Infiniti QX80
2025 Kia K4
2025 Nissan Kicks
GM stops data sharing

Riding with Waymo

Running the Ranger Raptor in the desert

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https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/3/16/23/6cc03613-01a4-437a-b84b-709c05ec1c01_wb_342_-_touch_the_vent_not_the_screen.mp3

This week Sam has been driving the Honda Passport Trailsport.Sam assesses the new Lincoln Nautilus and likes the big screen, but there are other issues. Don&#39;t forget to check out the video Sam and Nicole did with the Nautilus. Porsche is finally bringing out a hybrid version of the 911. Renowned automotive Designer Marcello Gandini has died at 85. Are automakers sharing too much of our data? Polestar cuts the price of the 3 before it even arrives. Audi is forcing subscriptions on the new A3. Dan Edmunds and Motor Trend look at the Cybertruck and Automotive News no longer classes Tesla as a luxury brand. Finally, Rivian drivers can start using superchargers.Links<a href="https://youtu.be/Z9XAu9hc47w" rel="nofollow">2024 Lincoln Nautilus First Drive</a><a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/samabuelsamid/2024/03/14/first-drive-the-2024-lincoln-nautilus-with-a-non-distracting-display/" rel="nofollow">Sam&#39;s Nautilus take</a><a href="https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/porsche-911-hybrid-confirmed-summer-2024" rel="nofollow">Hybrid Porsche 911</a><a href="https://media.polestar.com/us/en/media/pressreleases/681821" rel="nofollow">Polestar 3 US pricing down by $10K</a><a href="https://www.autoblog.com/article/marcello-gandini-dies-at-85-heres-a-look-at-some-of-his-famous-designs/" rel="nofollow">Marcello Gandini dies at 85</a><a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2024/03/11/technology/carmakers-driver-tracking-insurance.html" rel="nofollow">Data from connected cars</a><a href="https://jalopnik.com/audi-a3-buyers-must-subscribe-to-use-basic-car-features-1851331903" rel="nofollow">Audi A3 subscriptions</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fG8YRQsaZhA" rel="nofollow">Dan Edmunds examines the cybertruck</a><a href="https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2024-tesla-cybertruck-dual-motor-foundation-series-first-test-review/" rel="nofollow">Motor Trend on the Cybertruck</a><a href="https://www.autonews.com/commentary/why-tesla-no-longer-luxury-car-brand?utm_campaign=20240315&utm_content=hero-headline&utm_medium=email&utm_source=dont-miss" rel="nofollow">Tesla no longer a luxury brand</a><a href="https://www.threads.net/@hoon_kim/post/C4jrFPipgKV" rel="nofollow">Rivian Supercharging now working</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out Express VPN: www.expressvpn.com Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Touch The Vent Not The Screen

This week Sam has been driving the Honda Passport Trailsport.

Nicole and Sam assess the new Lincoln Nautilus and like the big screen, but there are other issues. Porsche is finally bringing out a hybrid version of the 911. Renowned automotive Designer Marcello Gandini has died at 85. Are automakers sharing too much of our data? Polestar cuts the price of the 3 before it even arrives. Audi is forcing subscriptions on the new A3. Dan Edmunds and Motor Trend look at the Cybertruck and Automotive News no longer classes Tesla as a luxury brand. Finally, Rivian drivers can start using superchargers. 

Links

2024 Lincoln Nautilus First Drive
Sam's Nautilus take

Hybrid Porsche 911
Polestar 3 US pricing down by $10K
Marcello Gandini dies at 85
Data from connected cars
Audi A3 subscriptions
Dan Edmunds examines the cybertruck
Motor Trend on the Cybertruck
Tesla no longer a luxury brand
Rivian Supercharging now working

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https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/3/10/18/33fa8c4a-b57c-462b-a8e1-3df81ce2b031_wb_341_-_return_of_the_gremlin.mp3

This week Sam has been driving the Genesis Electrified G80. Robbie was picking speakers for his band in the Land Rover Defender 130 and Nicole has the Infiniti QX60.The core of Henrik Fisker&#39;s original design for the Karma continues to live on, now as part of the Karma Automotive and the Chinese-owned company has just launched a refreshed version that ditches the plug-in series hybrid for a full electric powertrain. Nissan has addressed one of the biggest complaints about the Ariya EV by cutting the price. There are currently no EVs that will charge at 500 kW, but Gravity Mobility has installed just such a charger in New York. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is still relatively new, but it&#39;s already getting an update.We frequently complain about automakers putting controls into the touchscreen and now EuroNCAP is going to cut their safety ratings if they don&#39;t bring back physical controls.Rivian has revealed now just one, but two new vehicles, but they won&#39;t start arriving for at least two years. The Blazer EV is back on sale and now has a significantly lower price. Finally Sam has been using a local Tesla Supercharger station with Ford and Genesis vehicles.Links<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LaFNmuvbCFE" rel="nofollow">Karma Gyesera</a><a href="https://usa.nissannews.com/en-US/releases/nissan-enhances-starting-price-of-2024-nissan-ariya-to-39590?utm_campaign=2024+Nissan+Ariya+Press+Kit&utm_content=2024+Nissan+Ariya+Press+Kit+CID_0f7f2430fac4eec958390d9bf30e435f&utm_medium=email&utm_source=Email+Blast+CM" rel="nofollow">Nissan cuts Ariya prices</a><a href="https://www.autoblog.com/2024/03/04/gravity-mobility-opens-fastest-ev-charger-in-us-to-public-in-new-york-city/" rel="nofollow">500 kW charger in NYC</a><a href="https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/hyundai-ioniq-5-update-brings-rear-wiper-and-bigger-battery" rel="nofollow">Hyundai Ioniq 5 refresh gets more battery, rear wiper</a><a href="https://www.hagerty.com/media/news/car-makers-must-bring-back-buttons-says-europe/" rel="nofollow">EuroNCAP calls for return of physical buttons</a><a href="https://www.autoblog.com/2024/03/07/rivian-reveals-r3-r3x-electric-suvs-as-surprise-siblings-to-r2/" rel="nofollow">Rivian R2 and R3</a><a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/samabuelsamid/2024/03/08/the-chevrolet-blazer-ev-is-back-on-sale-with-a-lower-price/" rel="nofollow">Return of the Blazer EV with a lower price</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S7vFjoFvYfA" rel="nofollow">Supercharging a Ford Mustang Mach-E</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KKJ4XiDSYwU" rel="nofollow">Charging a G80 with a Magic Dock</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out Express VPN: www.expressvpn.com Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Return of the Gremlin

This week Sam has been driving the Genesis Electrified G80. Robbie was picking speakers for his band in the Land Rover Defender 130 and Nicole has the Infiniti QX60.

The core of Henrik Fisker's original design for the Karma continues to live on, now as part of the Karma Automotive and the Chinese-owned company has just launched a refreshed version that ditches the plug-in series hybrid for a full electric powertrain. Nissan has addressed one of the biggest complaints about the Ariya EV by cutting the price. There are currently no EVs that will charge at 500 kW, but Gravity Mobility has installed just such a charger in New York. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is still relatively new, but it's already getting an update. 

We frequently complain about automakers putting controls into the touchscreen and now EuroNCAP is going to cut their safety ratings if they don't bring back physical controls.Rivian has revealed now just one, but two new vehicles, but they won't start arriving for at least two years. The Blazer EV is back on sale and now has a significantly lower price. Finally Sam has been using a local Tesla Supercharger station with Ford and Genesis vehicles. 

Links

Karma Gyesera
Nissan cuts Ariya prices
500 kW charger in NYC
Hyundai Ioniq 5 refresh gets more battery, rear wiper
EuroNCAP calls for return of physical buttons
Rivian R2 and R3
Return of the Blazer EV with a lower price
Supercharging a Ford Mustang Mach-E
Charging a G80 with a Magic Dock

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https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/3/2/19/9bc2b345-e598-4ae2-b8ec-3df80ac49892_wb_340_-_who_cares_about_efficiency.mp3

This week Nicole is driving the Ford Maverick Tremor, Robbie has the Range Rover plug-in hybrid and Sam has new Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road.We&#39;ve got lots of news this week. After a decade of work and billions of dollars spent, Apple has apparantely finally abandoned the idea of building a car. Ford took its latest electric Supervan and had Romain Dumas set a new lap record at Mount Panorama. Ford is also hosting a camping party at the Austin Bronco Off-Rodeo for the upcoming total solar eclipse and Ford EV drivers can now Supercharge.Sam went to a secret location to see the production version of Dodge&#39;s new e-Muscle car, the Charger Daytona. Honda has introduced a new plug-in hybrid CR-V with a fuel cell and VW has done some upgrades to the ID4. Fisker warns that they are almost out of money and then Nissan steps up to possibly save the company. Finally Red Bull has a crazy drone that can track a Formula 1 car.Links<a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-02-27/apple-cancels-work-on-electric-car-shifts-team-to-generative-ai?sref=PtTGk0nq" rel="nofollow">The end of the Apple car</a><a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/samabuelsamid/2024/03/01/first-look-2024-dodge-charger-daytona-all-the-noise-no-emissions/" rel="nofollow">2024 Dodge Charger Daytona</a><a href="https://www.dailysportscar.com/2024/02/25/dumas-breaks-bathurst-record-in-ford-ev-supervan.html?utm_campaign=dumas-breaks-bathurst-record-in-ford-ev-supervan&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss" rel="nofollow">Ford SuperVan 4.2 Bathurst record</a><a href="https://media.ford.com/content/fordmedia/fna/us/en/news/2024/02/29/ford-customers-can-now-charge-on-tesla-superchargers-in-u-s---ca.html" rel="nofollow">Ford EVs can now access Superchargers</a><a href="https://media.ford.com/content/fordmedia/fna/us/en/news/2024/02/28/bronco-owners-invited-to-exclusive-total-solar-eclipse-viewing-e.html" rel="nofollow">Total Solar Eclipse at Bronco Off-Rodeo</a><a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/samabuelsamid/2024/02/27/hydrogen-fuel-cell--plug-in-electric-honda-cr-v-arriving-in-fall-2024/" rel="nofollow">Honda CR-V e:FCEV</a><a href="https://media.vw.com/en-us/press-kits/2024-id4-press-kit" rel="nofollow">2024 VW ID4 upgrades</a><a href="https://www.engadget.com/fisker-halts-work-on-new-ev-models-until-it-finds-more-money-140050091.html?src=rss" rel="nofollow">Fisker warns of running out of cash</a><a href="https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/nissan-fisker-advanced-talks-investment-partnership-sources-2024-03-01/" rel="nofollow">Fisker talking to Nissan</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9pEqyr_uT-k" rel="nofollow">World&#39;s Fastest camera drone chases Red Bull F1 car</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=svD7Mx2xius" rel="nofollow">Roman Breaks a new Tacoma</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out Express VPN: www.expressvpn.com Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Who Cares About Efficiency?

This week Nicole is driving the Ford Maverick Tremor, Robbie has the Range Rover plug-in hybrid and Sam has new Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road. 

We've got lots of news this week. After a decade of work and billions of dollars spent, Apple has apparantely finally abandoned the idea of building a car. Ford took its latest electric Supervan and had Romain Dumas set a new lap record at Mount Panorama. Ford is also hosting a camping party at the Austin Bronco Off-Rodeo for the upcoming total solar eclipse and Ford EV drivers can now Supercharge. 

Sam went to a secret location to see the production version of Dodge's new e-Muscle car, the Charger Daytona. Honda has introduced a new plug-in hybrid CR-V with a fuel cell and VW has done some upgrades to the ID4. Fisker warns that they are almost out of money and then Nissan steps up to possibly save the company. Finally Red Bull has a crazy drone that can track a Formula 1 car. 

Links

The end of the Apple car
2024 Dodge Charger Daytona
Ford SuperVan 4.2 Bathurst record
Ford EVs can now access Superchargers
Total Solar Eclipse at Bronco Off-Rodeo
Honda CR-V e:FCEV
2024 VW ID4 upgrades
Fisker warns of running out of cash

Fisker talking to Nissan

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https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/2/25/19/3a4f922e-ff28-4eaf-8d56-524f04aa816e_wb_339_-_what_s_happening_at_jeep.mp3

This week Robbie got to spend some time with something really fast, the new McLaren 750s. Meanwhile, Nicole and Sam had some more pedestrian rides. Nicole got a few days with the Volkswagen ID.7 as well as the Jeep Hornet PHEV. Sam had the Toyota Crown Platinum.In the news, we&#39;ve got first drive reports on the updated 2025 Ram 1500, now powered only by six-cylinder engines and the Honda Prologue, the brand&#39;s firsrt purpose-built EV for North America. Sam also talks with Prologue chief engineer John Hwang. Jeep&#39;s new CEO provide&#39;s an update on the SUV brand&#39;s plans and we get a first look at the upcoming Wagoneer S and Recon electric SUVs. Ineos is developing an electric off-roader as well called the Fusilier. The soon to arrive US-built Kia EV9 may not have full tax credit eligibility at launch. Waymo&#39;s expansion plans in California are paused and Cruise problems will put a damper on GM bonuses. We also have listener questions.Links<a href="https://www.motortrend.com/news/jeep-brand-turnaround-2024-plan/" rel="nofollow">Jeep Update</a><a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/samabuelsamid/2024/02/22/2025-prologue-is-a-honda-suv-with-ultium-dna/" rel="nofollow">Honda Prologue first drive</a><a href="https://www.autobytel.com/10-best-features-of-the-2025-ram-1500" rel="nofollow">2025 Ram 1500 first drive</a><a href="https://www.autoblog.com/2024/02/23/ineos-fusilier-revealed-will-offer-electric-and-range-extended-powertrains/" rel="nofollow">Ineos Fusilier EV</a><a href="https://www.autonews.com/manufacturing/why-us-kia-ev9-may-not-be-fully-eligible-credits-first" rel="nofollow">US Built Kia EV9 soon, without full tax credit</a><a href="https://www.reuters.com/technology/california-suspends-waymos-application-expand-parts-la-sfs-peninsula-2024-02-21/" rel="nofollow">Waymo expansion suspended</a><a href="https://www.autonews.com/automakers-suppliers/gm-factor-ev-software-av-performance-salaried-bonuses" rel="nofollow">40% of GM bonuses based on EV, software, Cruise</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out Express VPN: www.expressvpn.com Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

What's Happening at Jeep?

This week Robbie got to spend some time with something really fast, the new McLaren 750s. Meanwhile, Nicole and Sam had some more pedestrian rides. Nicole got a few days with the Volkswagen ID.7 as well as the Jeep Hornet PHEV. Sam had the Toyota Crown Platinum.

In the news, we've got first drive reports on the updated 2025 Ram 1500, now powered only by six-cylinder engines and the Honda Prologue, the brand's firsrt purpose-built EV for North America. Sam also talks with Prologue chief engineer John Hwang. Jeep's new CEO provide's an update on the SUV brand's plans and we get a first look at the upcoming Wagoneer S and Recon electric SUVs. Ineos is developing an electric off-roader as well called the Fusilier. The soon to arrive US-built Kia EV9 may not have full tax credit eligibility at launch. Waymo's expansion plans in California are paused and Cruise problems will put a damper on GM bonuses. We also have listener questions.

Links

Jeep Update
Honda Prologue first drive
2025 Ram 1500 first drive
Ineos Fusilier EV
US Built Kia EV9 soon, without full tax credit
Waymo expansion suspended
40% of GM bonuses based on EV, software, Cruise

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https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/2/20/12/7ce94c49-8561-4f99-8d6f-a9eacac6a3a8_wb_338_-_testing_tires.mp3

Robbie is back from Colorado where he attended the Bridgestone winter driving school and spent time with the Toyota Rav4 and 4Runner in the snow. He also rented a Ford Transit van to move ping-pong tables and drove a Kia Carnival. Nicole has been spending time in the psuedo off-road Honda Passport Trailsport and Sam had the Audi Q8 e-Tron Sportback Launch edition.In the news, GM is expanding the driving domain of Super Cruise and has priced the Chevy Equinox EV which might eventually go on sale when the software issues are fixed. As more vehicles start to use Tesla Superchargers, Kyle Connor is finding there are interoperability issues. The multi-automaker DC fast charging network is now operational and called Ionna. Being made of stainless steel doesn&#39;t make Cybertrucks corrosion proof and Stellantis won&#39;t be buying any more EV credits from Tesla. Shell has shut down its California hydrogen stations and a crowd in San Francisco burned a Waymo robotaxi that drove by during lunar new year celebrations.Finally, we are joined by Tire Rack&#39;s tire testing manager TJ Campbell to talk about rubber.Links<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/samabuelsamid/2024/02/14/gms-hands-free-super-cruise-expands-to-750k-miles/" rel="nofollow">Super Cruise expanding to 750K miles</a><a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/samabuelsamid/2024/02/12/2025-chevrolet-equinox-ev-starts-at-35k-with-319-mile-range/" rel="nofollow">Chevrolet Equinox EV $35-47K, 319 miles w/FWD</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fbxe518gjvQ" rel="nofollow">Interoperability issues with Superchargers</a><a href="https://gizmodo.com/cybertruck-owners-say-their-stainless-steel-trucks-are-1851257880" rel="nofollow">Cybertruck rust?</a><a href="https://www.autoweek.com/news/a46791348/shell-closes-hydrogen-stations-california/" rel="nofollow">Shell closes California H2 stations</a><a href="https://www.theverge.com/2024/2/11/24069251/waymo-driverless-taxi-fire-vandalized-video-san-francisco-china-town" rel="nofollow">San Francisco crowd burns Waymo</a><a href="https://www.autonews.com/regulation-safety/stellantis-ceo-tavares-shuns-buying-regulatory-credits" rel="nofollow">Stellantis done buying EV credits</a><a href="https://www.tirerack.com/content/tirerack/desktop/en/homepage.html" rel="nofollow">Tire Rack</a><a href="https://ionna.com" rel="nofollow">Ionna Charging Network</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out Express VPN: www.expressvpn.com Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Testing Tires

Robbie is back from Colorado where he attended the Bridgestone winter driving school and spent time with the Toyota Rav4 and 4Runner in the snow. He also rented a Ford Transit van to move ping-pong tables and drove a Kia Carnival. Nicole has been spending time in the psuedo off-road Honda Passport Trailsport and Sam had the Audi Q8 e-Tron Sportback Launch edition.

In the news, GM is expanding the driving domain of Super Cruise and has priced the Chevy Equinox EV which might eventually go on sale when the software issues are fixed. As more vehicles start to use Tesla Superchargers, Kyle Connor is finding there are interoperability issues. The multi-automaker DC fast charging network is now operational and called Ionna. Being made of stainless steel doesn't make Cybertrucks corrosion proof and Stellantis won't be buying any more EV credits from Tesla. Shell has shut down its California hydrogen stations and a crowd in San Francisco burned a Waymo robotaxi that drove by during lunar new year celebrations. 

Finally, we are joined by Tire Rack's tire testing manager TJ Campbell to talk about rubber.

Links

Super Cruise expanding to 750K miles
Chevrolet Equinox EV $35-47K, 319 miles w/FWD
Interoperability issues with Superchargers

Cybertruck rust?
Shell closes California H2 stations
San Francisco crowd burns Waymo
Stellantis done buying EV credits

Tire Rack

Ionna Charging Network

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https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/2/11/17/8dcd793e-a1e1-4bbe-a66c-e550d206934b_wb_337_-_killing_unused_features.mp3

Robbie is off visiting some family this week, but even with just Nicole and Sam it&#39;s a long episode. Sam has been burning up the gas in a Ford F-250 XL 4x4 while Nicole has a much more reasonably sized Subaru Outback.Nicole and Sam were both in Chicago this week and talk about the future of auto shows. While in Chicago we saw a bunch of stuff including mid-cycle updates for the Kia K5 sedan and Carnival minivan (sorry, I meant MPV). Parking large or heavy vehicles in Paris will soon be much more expensive. A majority of workers at VW&#39;s Chatanooga factory have signed up to join the UAW and an official vote may be coming soon. Americans are loosing trust in automated vehicles and companies like Cruise and Tesla have only themselves to blame. We saw the Cybertruck and Sam has some serious safety concerns. Automakers collect data from connected vehicles on which features customers actually use. Ford is using this data as justification to drop automater parking assist because no one uses it. We talk with Julie and Chris Ramsey about their Pole to Pole road trip in a Nissan Ariya. We also spoke with Chris Feuell, CEO of the Chrysler brand about the new Halcyon concept and what we can expect from the brand in the next couple of years. We also answer some listener emails.Links<a href="https://www.autoblog.com/2024/02/05/parisians-vote-to-triple-parking-fees-for-heavy-bulky-cars-and-not-just-suvs/" rel="nofollow">Paris votes to charge large, heavy vehicles more for parking</a><a href="https://uaw.org/were-taking-the-lead-over-half-of-volkswagen-workers-in-chattanooga-tennessee-sign-cards-to-join-the-uaw-in-less-than-60-days/" rel="nofollow">Majority of VW workers sign UAW cards</a><a href="https://insideevs.com/news/707658/ford-cheap-ev-platform-farley/" rel="nofollow">Ford Skunkworks team developing low cost EV</a><a href="https://www.thedrive.com/news/most-americans-wary-of-self-driving-cars-as-trust-in-tesla-wanes-study" rel="nofollow">Americans losing trust in AVs</a><a href="https://photos.app.goo.gl/DXa7EwFA2oRySxBc8" rel="nofollow">Cybertruck safety issues</a><a href="https://www.kiamedia.com/us/en/media/pressreleases/21841/2025-kia-carnival-mpv-redefined-elevating-multi-purpose-appeal-with-hybrid-power-sophisticated-desig" rel="nofollow">2025 Kia Carnival</a><a href="https://www.kiamedia.com/us/en/media/pressreleases/21839/new-2025-kia-k5-makes-north-american-debut-at-chicago-auto-show" rel="nofollow">2025 Kia K5</a><a href="https://www.thedrive.com/news/ford-kills-self-parallel-parking-feature-to-save-a-few-bucks" rel="nofollow">Ford Killing Active Park Assist</a>Chrysler Halcyon<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/samabuelsamid/2024/02/09/automaker-ev-charging-network-branded-ionna-seth-cutler-named-ceo/" rel="nofollow">Ionna Charging Network</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out Express VPN: www.expressvpn.com Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Killing Unused Features

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/2/5/12/5a38843a-a5bc-4763-97c6-6680e0decfb7_wb_336_-_bringing_back_hybrids.mp3

This week Sam is driving a very luxurious and pricey version of the J300 Land Cruiser in the form of the Lexus LX600. Robbie has been trying out the 2024 Ford Mustang Premium Ecoboost and Nicole had Toyota Prius.Nicole has first thoughts on driving the new Lexus GX. Ford and Lincoln have finally gotten around to updating the Explorer and Aviator and they both lose their hybrid variants. Mazda is adding another plug-in hybrid with the new CX-70, basically a two-row version of the CX-90. GM is also bringing plug-in hybrids back to the US market, eventually. Honda is reportedly working on an electric next-gen NSX. Kyle Conner tries to buy a Vinfast VF8 and Volvo is pausing deliveries of the EX30 because of software problems. Early Cybertruck owners are having issues with tires and suspensions and Elon wants protection from China.Links2024 Lexus GX<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/samabuelsamid/2024/02/01/2025-ford-explorer-more-grille-tech-and-soft-surfaces-no-hybrid/" rel="nofollow">2025 Ford Explorer</a>2025 Lincoln Aviator<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/samabuelsamid/2024/01/30/2025-mazda-cx-70-for-when-3-rows-is-too-much/" rel="nofollow">2025 Mazda CX-70</a><a href="https://apnews.com/article/general-motors-10-billion-profit-strike-autoworkers-e24b2a1ae3baf7d4b6fa9af5bd7d8e50" rel="nofollow">GM to bring back PHEVs</a><a href="https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/honda-nsx-set-return-halo-radical-new-ev-line" rel="nofollow">Honda NSX EV</a><a href="https://youtu.be/s90qmaYjcIw?si=2g_skFGX6YL84xOA" rel="nofollow">Kyle Conner tries to buy a Vinfast VF8</a><a href="https://www.engadget.com/volvo-pauses-deliveries-of-its-ex30-due-to-software-issues-132019346.html?guccounter=1&src=rss" rel="nofollow">Volvo EX30 deliveries paused because Software</a><a href="https://jalopnik.com/tesla-cybertruck-s-aero-wheel-covers-are-chewing-up-the-1851218721" rel="nofollow">Cybertruck aero wheel covers chewing up tires</a><a href="https://www.cybertruckownersclub.com/forum/threads/first-cybertruck-down-while-offroading-rear-steering-tie-rod-broken-koh-by-unplugged-performance.12015/" rel="nofollow">Broken Cybertruck at King of the Hammers</a><a href="https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/tesla-ceo-musk-chinese-ev-firms-will-demolish-rivals-without-trade-barriers-2024-01-25/" rel="nofollow">Elon wants more tariffs on Chinese EVs</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out Express VPN: www.expressvpn.com Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Bringing Back Hybrids

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/1/28/19/44bb61bd-aa54-4f14-9458-b42bfa31fd47_wb_335_-_why_the_minivan_hate.mp3

Nicole has been having some fun with the Mazda 3 Turbo while Robbie has the Subaru Impreza RS. Sam is driving the most affordable Buick in a long time in the form of the new Envista.In the news, Chevrolet has revealed a second completely different and not at all electric Equinox and expanded its CT5 refresh to the CT5-V and CT5-V Blackwing. Honda and Acura have released pricing on the Prologue and ZDX which won&#39;t be released until GM fixes the software platform. The dealership employees that sold a Dodge Demon 170 that was allocated to a member of the military to someone willing to pay an extra $50,000 have been fired. Porsche has released a second-generation Macan that is now exclusively electric. Akio Toyoda thinks EVs won&#39;t exceed 30% market share and Revoy has an electric assist system for heavy trucks. Sam talked with Andrey at TFL trucks about modded trucks and we answer some listener questions.Links<a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/samabuelsamid/2024/01/23/2025-chevrolet-equinox-gets-rugged-looks-more-tech/" rel="nofollow">2025 Chevrolet Equinox</a><a href="https://www.thedrive.com/news/dodge-dealer-fires-employees-who-screwed-soldier-out-of-challenger-srt-demon-170" rel="nofollow">Dealers fires employees who sold Demon 170</a><a href="https://hondanews.com/en-US/honda-automobiles/releases/release-a463299e9046a088b84018a758280958-all-electric-2024-honda-prologue-earns-class-leading-standard-range-rating-starts-arriving-at-dealers-this-spring-priced-at-47400" rel="nofollow">Acura ZDX pricing</a><a href="https://hondanews.com/en-US/honda-automobiles/releases/release-a463299e9046a088b84018a758280958-all-electric-2024-honda-prologue-earns-class-leading-standard-range-rating-starts-arriving-at-dealers-this-spring-priced-at-47400" rel="nofollow">Honda Prologue pricing and range</a><a href="https://newsroom.porsche.com/en/2024/products/porsche-the-all-electric-macan-35086.html" rel="nofollow">Porsche Macan EV</a><a href="https://insideevs.com/news/705724/akio-toyoda-toyota-ev-cap/" rel="nofollow">Akio Toyoda projects EVs will top out at 30% share</a><a href="https://media.cadillac.com/media/us/en/cadillac/home.detail.html/content/Pages/news/us/en/2024/jan/0124-ct5v.html" rel="nofollow">2025 Cadillac CT5-V/CT5-V Blackwing</a><a href="https://www.motortrend.com/news/revoy-semi-truck-electric-range-extender-startup/" rel="nofollow">Revoy electric truck assist</a><a href="https://youtu.be/vOGn-nNB3qk?si=SrzvpEsjULrZO6IU" rel="nofollow">The limits of modified and lifted trucks</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SeBOuaxTJZg" rel="nofollow">Chevy Astro commercial</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out Express VPN: www.expressvpn.com Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Why The Minivan Hate

Nicole has been having some fun with the Mazda 3 Turbo while Robbie has the Subaru Impreza RS. Sam is driving the most affordable Buick in a long time in the form of the new Envista. 

In the news, Chevrolet has revealed a second completely different and not at all electric Equinox and expanded its CT5 refresh to the CT5-V and CT5-V Blackwing. Honda and Acura have released pricing on the Prologue and ZDX which won't be released until GM fixes the software platform. The dealership employees that sold a Dodge Demon 170 that was allocated to a member of the military to someone willing to pay an extra $50,000 have been fired. Porsche has released a second-generation Macan that is now exclusively electric. Akio Toyoda thinks EVs won't exceed 30% market share and Revoy has an electric assist system for heavy trucks. Sam talked with Andrey at TFL trucks about modded trucks and we answer some listener questions. 

Links

2025 Chevrolet Equinox
Dealers fires employees who sold Demon 170
Acura ZDX pricing
Honda Prologue pricing and range
Porsche Macan EV
Akio Toyoda projects EVs will top out at 30% share
2025 Cadillac CT5-V/CT5-V Blackwing
Revoy electric truck assist
The limits of modified and lifted trucks
Chevy Astro commercial

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Lucy With the Football

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/1/21/22/fb6a71f8-98fc-4232-abca-f05e0e338dad_wb_334_-_dealers_be_dealering.mp3

This week, Nicole has the Mazda CX-50 in a disappointing color, Robbie has the Range Rover Velar in one of the 8 available non-colors and Sam is driving the Chevrolet Trailblazer in Cacti Green.In the news, Jeep teases the upcoming Wagoneer S EV with too much power. Stellantis also launches the Ram Promaster EV and confirms the STLA Large EV platform will also support hybrid powertrains. JerryRigEverything tries towing with the Cybertruck and comes up short. For some reason, BMW has decided to put some humanoid robots into the Spartanburg assembly plant, what could go wrong? Mazda has launched a development program for a new rotary sports car, will it ever be built?Ford and Lincoln are launching an all-new infotainment system based on Android with a 48-inch full-width screen. Sam also spoke with friend of the show, Andrey Smirnov for an episode of TFL Trucks about lifted trucks and we debate the legitimacy of a threads video about software defined vehicles. Sam also has a conversation with Paul Thomas, president of the mobility unit of Bosch from CES.Links<a href="https://media.stellantisnorthamerica.com/newsrelease.do?id=25624&mid=1" rel="nofollow">Jeep Wagoneer S</a><a href="https://www.motortrend.com/news/stellantis-ceo-carlos-tavares-dodge-jeep-chrysler-ram-ev-stla-large-update/" rel="nofollow">8 STLA Large EVs coming by 2026</a><a href="https://media.stellantisnorthamerica.com/newsrelease.do?id=25617&mid=1" rel="nofollow">Ram Promaster EV</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?pp=ygUUamVycnkgcmlnIGV2ZXJ5dGhpbmc%3D&v=yk_u9fbkoKM" rel="nofollow">JerryRigEverything Tows with the Cybertruck</a><a href="https://www.autoblog.com/2024/01/18/bmw-humanoid-robot-figure/" rel="nofollow">BMW to deploy humanoid robots in Spartanburg</a><a href="https://www.thedrive.com/news/ford-abandons-self-repossessing-car-tech-at-least-for-now" rel="nofollow">Ford abandons self-repo cars</a><a href="https://www.thedrive.com/news/mazda-is-launching-rotary-engine-development-for-sports-car-ceo" rel="nofollow">Mazda Launching rotary sports car development</a><a href="https://youtu.be/_imvg6hl2tw" rel="nofollow">Ford/Lincoln Digital Experience</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vOGn-nNB3qk" rel="nofollow">The problem with lifted trucks no one talks about</a><a href="https://www.threads.net/@taiwanpalle/post/C2QwMZrBfgz" rel="nofollow">More software defined vehicle trouble</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out Express VPN: www.expressvpn.com Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Dealers be Dealering

This week, Nicole has the Mazda CX-50 in a disappointing color, Robbie has the Range Rover Velar in one of the 8 available non-colors and Sam is driving the Chevrolet Trailblazer in Cacti Green.

In the news, Jeep teases the upcoming Wagoneer S EV with too much power. Stellantis also launches the Ram Promaster EV and confirms the STLA Large EV platform will also support hybrid powertrains. JerryRigEverything tries towing with the Cybertruck and comes up short. For some reason, BMW has decided to put some humanoid robots into the Spartanburg assembly plant, what could go wrong? Mazda has launched a development program for a new rotary sports car, will it ever be built?

Ford and Lincoln are launching an all-new infotainment system based on Android with a 48-inch full-width screen. Sam also spoke with friend of the show, Andrey Smirnov for an episode of TFL Trucks about lifted trucks and we debate the legitimacy of a threads video about software defined vehicles. Sam also has a conversation with Paul Thomas, president of the mobility unit of Bosch from CES. 

Links

Jeep Wagoneer S
8 STLA Large EVs coming by 2026
Ram Promaster EV
JerryRigEverything Tows with the Cybertruck
BMW to deploy humanoid robots in Spartanburg
Ford abandons self-repo cars
Mazda Launching rotary sports car development
Ford/Lincoln Digital Experience
The problem with lifted trucks no one talks about
More software defined vehicle trouble

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https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/1/16/1/653edaea-8219-458e-85b6-47b4d9a97f69_wb_333_-_tell_me_a_dinosaur_story.mp3

Sam and Robbie survived another year of CES and have lots to discuss. Sam has been driving the Chrysler Pacifica plug-in hybrid since returning.  Nicole has had the Hyundai Tucson and Robbie got to ride the Honda Motocompacto at CES.At CES, large language models have been integrated into cars with VW using ChatGPT, BMW using one from Amazon and Mercedes-Benz working with Nvidia. Fisker joins Vinfast in ditching direct sales as it signs up dealers and Sam chats with Henrik Fisker about it. Honda&#39;s new concepts preview its upcoming Series 0 EVs coming in 2026. There was lidar news from Hesai, Robosense, Aeva and Luminar. Intel is jumping back into the automotive chip business. Eaton has developed an EV charger that fits in your circuit breaker panel. Supernal and Xpeng are still trying to make personal aviation a thing. Android Auto is getting battery state of charge information for Google Maps and the Detroit Auto Show is going back to January. Vinfast also showed off a pickup truck and tiny crossover at CES.Links<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mGZeGKQXOY4" rel="nofollow">VW gets ChatGPT, LLMs everywhere</a><a href="https://investors.fiskerinc.com/news/news-details/2024/Fisker-Introduces-New-Dealer-Partnership-Model-in-Strategic-Transformation-for-Company/default.aspx" rel="nofollow">Fisker abandons direct sales</a><a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/samabuelsamid/2024/01/09/honda-unveils-to-ces-concepts-that-preview-2026-0-series-evs/" rel="nofollow">Honda Series 0 concepts</a><a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/samabuelsamid/2024/01/08/hesai-launches-new-high-performance-lidar-at-ces/" rel="nofollow">Lidar in China</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fCOk4XxJmUA" rel="nofollow">Luminar Demo</a><a href="https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/newsroom/news/ces-2024-auto-ai-news.html" rel="nofollow">Intel gets into cars - again</a><a href="https://www.eaton.com/us/en-us/catalog/electrical-circuit-protection/ev-charging-smart-breakers.html" rel="nofollow">Eaton&#39;s mini EV charger</a><a href="https://www.theverge.com/2024/1/9/24028009/hyundai-air-mobility-supernal-evtol-ces" rel="nofollow">Supernal</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jgjQ2xB7kDk" rel="nofollow">Xpeng AeroHT</a><a href="https://www.thedrive.com/news/the-detroit-auto-show-will-return-to-january-for-next-comeback-attempt?utm_source=pocket_saves" rel="nofollow">NAIAS Goes Back to January, right against CES</a><a href="https://www.engadget.com/android-auto-will-soon-let-google-maps-see-ev-battery-levels-and-tell-you-where-to-charge-your-vehicle-180006872.html" rel="nofollow">Android Auto gets battery information</a><a href="https://www.theverge.com/2024/1/10/24032769/vinfast-vf-wild-vf3-ev-concept-ces-2024" rel="nofollow">Vinfast at CES</a><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amphicar" rel="nofollow">Amphicar</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out Express VPN: www.expressvpn.com Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Tell Me A Dinosaur Story

Sam and Robbie survived another year of CES and have lots to discuss. Sam has been driving the Chrysler Pacifica plug-in hybrid since returning.  Nicole has had the Hyundai Tucson and Robbie got to ride the Honda Motocompacto at CES.

At CES, large language models have been integrated into cars with VW using ChatGPT, BMW using one from Amazon and Mercedes-Benz working with Nvidia. Fisker joins Vinfast in ditching direct sales as it signs up dealers and Sam chats with Henrik Fisker about it. Honda's new concepts preview its upcoming Series 0 EVs coming in 2026. There was lidar news from Hesai, Robosense, Aeva and Luminar. Intel is jumping back into the automotive chip business. Eaton has developed an EV charger that fits in your circuit breaker panel. Supernal and Xpeng are still trying to make personal aviation a thing. Android Auto is getting battery state of charge information for Google Maps and the Detroit Auto Show is going back to January. Vinfast also showed off a pickup truck and tiny crossover at CES.

Links

VW gets ChatGPT, LLMs everywhere

Fisker abandons direct sales

Honda Series 0 concepts

Lidar in China

Luminar Demo

Intel gets into cars - again

Eaton's mini EV charger

Supernal

Xpeng AeroHT

NAIAS Goes Back to January, right against CES

Android Auto gets battery information

Vinfast at CES

Amphicar

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https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/1/6/0/ac992426-21de-4747-a0ad-0bdd11119be3_wb_332_-_and_the_winners_are.mp3

This week Sam and Robbie both have large, luxury, three-row SUVs with turbocharged inline-six cylinder engines. Robbie has the BMW X7 and Sam has the Cadillac Escalade Platinum diesel.In the news we have the winners of the 2024 North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year awards. Ford also bumps up pricing on the F-150 Lightning again, only a few EVs retain tax credit eligibility for 2024, Porsche is making a faster Taycan, Stellantis is quiting auto shows and Tesla is cutting the estimated ranges of its EVs to something more realistic. Motor Trend drives the BYD Seal in Mexico and a University of Michigan study says you won&#39;t save money driving an EV if you fast charge.Links<a href="https://northamericancaroftheyear.org/nactoy-2024-winners/" rel="nofollow">NACTOY 2024 winners</a><a href="https://www.threads.net/@macheauto/post/C1pU0oAJlPL" rel="nofollow">Ford Lightning prices on the rise again</a><a href="https://fueleconomy.gov/feg/tax2023.shtml" rel="nofollow">Which EVs are still eligible for tax credits</a><a href="https://www.motortrend.com/news/porsche-taycan-ev-2023-nurburgring-lap-time-turbo-gt/" rel="nofollow">New track focused Porsche Taycan</a><a href="https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2024-byd-seal-electric-sedan-first-drive-review/" rel="nofollow">BYD Seal first drive at MT</a><a href="https://www.freep.com/story/money/cars/chrysler/2024/01/03/stellantis-reevaluates-spending-auto-shows/72099962007/" rel="nofollow">Stellantis done with auto shows</a><a href="https://news.umich.edu/electric-vs-gasoline-vehicles-is-ev-ownership-competitive-in-your-area/" rel="nofollow">UofM TCO study</a><a href="https://www.theverge.com/2024/1/5/24026367/tesla-lowers-range-estimations-model-x-s-y-mileage-exaggeration" rel="nofollow">Tesla lowers range estimates</a><img src="https://wheelbearings.media/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Image20240105173529-1.jpg"> Our Sponsors: * Check out Express VPN: www.expressvpn.com Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

And The Winners Are...

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2023/12/31/19/d8f1894f-aa73-4ed1-ba4c-516270b9d419_wb_331_-_we_can_t_have_nice_things.mp3

This week, Sam has been driving the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Veloce and Nicole shares her experience renting a Volvo XC60 diesel in Switzerland.Daihatsu which only briefly sold its small cars in the US in late 1980s and early 1990s reveals that for more than 30 years it has been faking safety certification documents for its vehicles along with those it has built for Toyota, Subaru and Mazda. Volvo is rolling out more EVs as it moves towards being an all-electric brand by the end of the decade with the ES90 sedan no in early pre-production. It&#39;s not unusual for car rental companies to have age limits for renters, but you might think 3-time F1 champion might get an exception, but you&#39;d be wrong. Vinfast which launched with direct consumer sales has signed up its first franchised dealer. Apparently California law doesn&#39;t allow police to write tickets to driverless cars that break traffic laws. The last V8-powered Dodge Challenger has left the building and VW has an electric GTI coming in 2026 but America might not get it. Finally, patron Adam J writes in to tell us about his experience using Auto Socks.If you didn&#39;t get your Wheel Bearings swag for the holidays, you can still order what you want at <a href="https://shop.wheelbearings.media" rel="nofollow">https://shop.wheelbearings.media</a>Links<a href="https://jalopnik.com/daihatsu-admits-it-forged-crash-test-results-for-30-yea-1851129221" rel="nofollow">Daihatsu forges crash test results for 30 years</a><a href="https://www.autoblog.com/2023/12/28/is-this-volvos-electric-es90-sedan-prototype/" rel="nofollow">Volvo ES90 could arrive by 2025</a><a href="https://www.thedrive.com/news/max-verstappen-reportedly-denied-rental-amg-because-hes-too-young" rel="nofollow">Max Verstappen too young to rent AMG GT</a><a href="https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/ev-maker-vinfast-launches-first-dealership-us-2023-12-28/" rel="nofollow">Vinfast gets 1st US dealer</a><a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/nightly-news/video/driverless-cars-immune-from-traffic-tickets-when-breaking-rules-of-the-road-investigation-reveals-201024581722" rel="nofollow">California AVs can&#39;t get tickets</a><a href="https://www.autoblog.com/2023/12/26/final-2023-challenger-comes-off-the-line-ending-a-wild-hemi-powered-era/" rel="nofollow">the last V8 Dodge Challenger</a><a href="https://www.autoblog.com/2023/12/26/volkswagen-id-gti-debuts-in-2026-on-sale-in-2027/" rel="nofollow">VW ID GTI arrives in 2026</a><a href="https://www.google.com/search?gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOdIBCTE5NDg3ajBqN6gCALACAA&ie=UTF-8&oq=burgess+meredith+twilight+zone&q=burgess+meredith+twilight+zone&rlz=1C1ONGR_enUS980US980&sourceid=chrome" rel="nofollow">Burgess Meredith Twilight Zone - Time Enough At Last</a><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001MS229Q?dealEvent=1&language=en-US&peakEvent=4&ref_=cm_sw_r_apan_dp_TK2K94J6F7MCZ6BBPJP6&th=1" rel="nofollow">Auto Socks</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out Express VPN: www.expressvpn.com Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

We Can't Have Nice Things

This week, Sam has been driving the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Veloce and Nicole shares her experience renting a Volvo XC60 diesel in Switzerland. 

Daihatsu which only briefly sold its small cars in the US in late 1980s and early 1990s reveals that for more than 30 years it has been faking safety certification documents for its vehicles along with those it has built for Toyota, Subaru and Mazda. Volvo is rolling out more EVs as it moves towards being an all-electric brand by the end of the decade with the ES90 sedan no in early pre-production. It's not unusual for car rental companies to have age limits for renters, but you might think 3-time F1 champion might get an exception, but you'd be wrong. Vinfast which launched with direct consumer sales has signed up its first franchised dealer. Apparently California law doesn't allow police to write tickets to driverless cars that break traffic laws. The last V8-powered Dodge Challenger has left the building and VW has an electric GTI coming in 2026 but America might not get it. Finally, patron Adam J writes in to tell us about his experience using Auto Socks. 

If you didn't get your Wheel Bearings swag for the holidays, you can still order what you want at https://shop.wheelbearings.media

Links

Daihatsu forges crash test results for 30 years
Volvo ES90 could arrive by 2025
Max Verstappen too young to rent AMG GT
Vinfast gets 1st US dealer
California AVs can't get tickets
the last V8 Dodge Challenger
VW ID GTI arrives in 2026
Burgess Meredith Twilight Zone - Time Enough At Last
Auto Socks

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Express VPN: www.expressvpn.com 

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2023/12/27/15/b746700c-a85c-4e6e-a05f-0a759b0d9f6d_wb_330_-_winter_socks_for_tires.mp3

Nicole is back and she has the new Honda Accord Hybrid Sport! Robbie is back and he&#39;s got thoughts on the Volvo C40 and Electrify America! Sam gets a bunch of electric miles out of the Alfa Romeo Tonale Ti eAWD.In the news, the Chevy Blazer EV we discussed last week is having some major software issues and GM has issued a stop sale order. Tesla&#39;s big recall hasn&#39;t actually address the problems with Autopilot as expected and they are also having trouble making batteries for the Cybertruck. Scooter sharing pioneer Bird goes bankrupt and Hyperloop One shuts down for good. Porsche and Aston Martin may be debut brands for next-generation Apple CarPlay and the first Cadillac Celestiq is spotted on Woodward Avenue. Our friends at TFL test winter tires vs all-seasons vs chains vs snow socks and you might be surprised at the winner. Finally, SAE has finished the new charging standard based on the Tesla connector (J3400) and Sam talks with Dr. Rodney McGee, chair of the task force that developed it.<a href="https://wheelbearings.media/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/socket-outlets.pdf" rel="nofollow">Charging socket types</a><a href="https://wheelbearings.media/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/NACS-277V-support.pdf" rel="nofollow">NACS 277V support</a>Links<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sPkM1CL4oGY" rel="nofollow">Snow/All-Season tires vs chains and snow socks</a><a href="https://www.edmunds.com/car-news/2024-chevy-blazer-ev-long-term-faults.html" rel="nofollow">Blazer EV problems</a><a href="https://insideevs.com/reviews/701169/2024-blazer-ev-stranded-broken/" rel="nofollow">More Blazer EV problems</a><a href="https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-recalls-defects/tesla-recalls-cars-due-to-autopilot-concerns-a6186663858/" rel="nofollow">Tesla recall doesn&#39;t work</a><a href="https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/austin-we-have-problem-tesla-descends-into-battery-hell-2023-12-21/" rel="nofollow">Tesla battery hell</a><a href="https://jalopnik.com/bird-scooters-fall-from-a-2-billion-valuation-to-bankr-1851117066" rel="nofollow">Bird goes bankrupt</a><a href="https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/21/24011448/hyperloop-one-shut-down-layoff-closing-elon-musk" rel="nofollow">Hyperloop One is done</a><a href="https://www.theverge.com/2023/12/20/24009697/apple-next-generation-wireless-carplay-porsche-aston-martin" rel="nofollow">Porsche and Aston Martin to launch next-gen Carplay</a><a href="https://www.autoblog.com/2023/12/26/sensationally-green-cadillac-celestiq-spotted-on-woodward-avenue/" rel="nofollow">First Cadillac Celestiq prototype spotted</a> Our Sponsors: * Check out Express VPN: www.expressvpn.com Advertising Inquiries: <a href='https://redcircle.com/brands'>https://redcircle.com/brands</a> Privacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.com/privacy'>https://redcircle.com/privacy</a>

Nicole is back and she has the new Honda Accord Hybrid Sport! Robbie is back and he's got thoughts on the Volvo C40 and Electrify America! Sam gets a bunch of electric miles out of the Alfa Romeo Tonale Ti eAWD. 

In the news, the Chevy Blazer EV we discussed last week is having some major software issues and GM has issued a stop sale order. Tesla's big recall hasn't actually address the problems with Autopilot as expected and they are also having trouble making batteries for the Cybertruck. Scooter sharing pioneer Bird goes bankrupt and Hyperloop One shuts down for good. Porsche and Aston Martin may be debut brands for next-generation Apple CarPlay and the first Cadillac Celestiq is spotted on Woodward Avenue. Our friends at TFL test winter tires vs all-seasons vs chains vs snow socks and you might be surprised at the winner. Finally, SAE has finished the new charging standard based on the Tesla connector (J3400) and Sam talks with Dr. Rodney McGee, chair of the task force that developed it. 

Charging socket types

NACS 277V support

Links

Snow/All-Season tires vs chains and snow socks
Blazer EV problems
More Blazer EV problems
Tesla recall doesn't work
Tesla battery hell
Bird goes bankrupt
Hyperloop One is done
Porsche and Aston Martin to launch next-gen Carplay
First Cadillac Celestiq prototype spotted

Our Sponsors:
* Check out Express VPN: www.expressvpn.com 

Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

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Winter Socks for Tires

Wheel Bearings is a podcast about cars and transportation hosted by Autoblog alumni Dan Roth and Sam Abuelsamid and also Rebecca Lindland

Wheel Bearings is a podcast about cars and transportation hosted by Sam Abuelsamid, Nicole Wakelin and Roberto Baldwin