154: Porsche Taycan Gains Virtual Gears and a Bigger Battery, Loses US Wagons

In the podcast, “Truck” appears as a general reference tied to the show’s topics, including a leak of Slate Truck’s official price. This indicates the episode is covering news about an electric truck product and its pricing information. It’s discussed because pricing and availability are major factors for buyers considering new electric trucks.

An EV charger is the equipment that supplies electricity to an electric vehicle for charging. The segment frames it as something you should research before buying, because charger availability, charging speed, and compatibility can strongly affect real-world road-trip convenience.

The Tesla Cybertruck is an all-electric pickup known for its angular, stainless-steel body and futuristic design. In the podcast, it comes up in the context of whether the base version is rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, which matters for traction and how it feels to drive. It’s also a frequent topic because it’s a high-profile electric truck with a lot of attention around its configuration.

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is an all-electric crossover designed around modern styling and practical daily usability. In the podcast, it’s mentioned as part of a broader Hyundai EV discussion, including other Ioniq models the host has driven. It’s relevant because the Ioniq 5 is a common “go-to” EV for people comparing different electric options.

The Hyundai Ioniq 9 is an electric vehicle model from Hyundai that the host says they drove for about a week. In the podcast, it’s mentioned as part of a sequence of Ioniq EV experiences, which helps listeners understand how different Ioniq models compare in real use. It’s discussed because it’s a newer addition to the Ioniq lineup and is being evaluated firsthand.

The McLaren Sabre is a high-performance, track-focused supercar from McLaren. In the podcast, it’s referenced in a conversation that also mentions a “Sabre truck,” but the key car being discussed is the Sabre as a unique, limited, performance-oriented model. It’s brought up because it’s notable enough to be discussed even when the show is covering other vehicle news.

A dual-wheel motor setup means the vehicle uses electric motors mounted at the wheels (or one motor per axle/wheel pair) to drive the vehicle. This can help with traction and torque control because the car can manage power delivery more precisely than a single centralized motor.

All-wheel drive (AWD) means power is sent to more than one axle so the vehicle can maintain traction in different conditions. On electric vehicles, AWD is often implemented with multiple motors, which makes it easier to vary torque between axles.

Steer-by-wire replaces the traditional mechanical connection between the steering wheel and the wheels with electronic controls. Instead of a direct linkage, sensors and actuators coordinate steering, which can enable features like different steering ratios or driver-assistance integration—but some drivers dislike the feel or response.

FSD stands for Full Self-Driving, a driver-assistance software package that aims to automate more driving tasks than basic cruise control. Here, the host says having FSD makes the vehicle easier to live with because they don’t have to do as much manual driving.

“Lightning” here refers to the Ford F-150 Lightning, Ford’s all-electric version of the F-150 pickup. The host is using it to compare real-world utility—specifically how many hay bales can fit in the bed.

The Chevrolet Silverado EV is an all-electric version of the Silverado pickup line, aimed at bringing electric power to a full-size truck platform. The podcast groups it with other electric trucks, implying a comparison of how different EV pickups fit into real-world use. It’s discussed because it represents one of the major mainstream electric truck options.

The Rivian R-1T is an all-electric pickup truck known for its off-road focus and large battery pack. In this segment, it’s used as a comparison point for how much cargo (like bales of hay) can fit in the bed.

Four-wheel steering is a chassis system where both the front and rear wheels can steer, improving low-speed maneuvering and high-speed stability. The host says they got used to it and found it an improvement over other electric pickups like the Rivian R-1T and the Lightning.

The Rivian R1S is a three-row electric SUV from Rivian, known for its spacious interior and off-road-capable design. In this segment, it’s used as a comparison point for comfort and “low entry” practicality versus another SUV.

“Low entry point” refers to how high (or low) the seat and floor are relative to the ground, affecting how easily you can get in and out. A lower entry can feel more accessible, especially for passengers who don’t want to climb up.

“Charges fine” refers to the EV charging experience—how smoothly the car connects to a charger, negotiates power, and completes a charge without issues. It’s a practical ownership metric because charging reliability and usability can vary between vehicles and charging networks.

The Porsche Taycan is Porsche’s all-electric performance sedan, known for its electric drivetrain and fast charging. In this segment, Porsche updates it for 2027 with new “virtual” driving behaviors and a larger standard battery pack. The host also notes changes to charging hardware and pricing for the U.S. market.

Simulated gear shifting is a software feature that makes an electric car feel like it’s changing gears. On the Taycan, it’s controlled by the paddle shifters and is designed to mimic the sensation of a multi-speed transmission. This helps drivers get familiar feedback even though the drivetrain is not using a traditional gearbox.

Gear-specific drag torque refers to how the car’s drivetrain resists motion when you lift off the accelerator, and it’s tuned to feel like different gears. In a traditional manual or automatic, engine braking changes depending on the gear you’re in. The Taycan’s simulated shifting uses software to reproduce that varying “coast/engine braking” sensation.

Porsche Electric Sport Sound is Porsche’s active sound feature for electric vehicles. It changes the audio output in real time based on driving inputs, including the accelerator and brake pedals. In this segment, the host says it adapts both inside and outside the car to match what you’re doing.

A larger battery pack means more stored electrical energy, which typically translates to more usable driving range. Here, the segment says the Taycan’s base model now includes the previously optional Performance Battery Plus. The host also provides the usable capacity figure, emphasizing that this is a meaningful hardware change, not just software.

Performance Battery Plus is a specific Taycan battery option that provides more usable capacity than the standard battery. In this segment, the host says it becomes standard equipment on every Taycan for 2027. They also quantify it as 97 kilowatt-hours of usable capacity.

Kilowatt-hours (kWh) measure how much electrical energy a battery can store. “Usable capacity” is the portion of that stored energy the car can actually use for driving, rather than the full theoretical capacity. This matters because two batteries with the same total size can still differ in how much energy is available to the driver.

The AC J1772 port is a standardized connector used for alternating-current (AC) charging in many markets, including the U.S. The segment says the driver-side port remains an AC J1772, while the passenger-side port gains a new connector. This distinction matters because AC charging is typically slower than high-power DC fast charging.

“Native Nax” appears to refer to a specific charging standard/connector integrated into the Taycan’s charging hardware. The host contrasts it with the driver-side AC J1772 port, implying the passenger side is set up for a different (likely faster or more compatible) charging method. Because the transcript doesn’t define Nax, listeners may need clarification on what connector/standard it represents.

Smartphone charging refers to built-in charging capability for a phone, typically via USB or wireless charging. In this context, the host says it’s “a lot faster,” implying the Taycan’s charging system has been upgraded to deliver more power to the phone. This is a convenience feature rather than a drivetrain change.

“Magnetic ring technology” refers to using a ring-shaped magnetic component to improve how a system senses or controls motion. In EVs, similar magnetic-ring approaches are often used to make motor/inverter control more precise and efficient, which can help performance and drivability.

Intelligent navigation uses live data (like traffic and routing conditions) to choose routes and adjust guidance as conditions change. It typically aims to reduce delays and improve ETA accuracy compared with basic GPS routing.

AI voice control is an in-car system that uses machine learning to understand spoken commands and carry out tasks like navigation or media control. Compared with older voice systems, AI-based approaches typically handle more natural phrasing and reduce the need for rigid command wording.

A “Manthey kit” refers to a Porsche-backed performance package associated with Manthey, a motorsport-focused tuning and development partner. The kit typically includes aerodynamic hardware and other changes intended to improve downforce, cooling, and overall track-oriented behavior.

“Aerodynamic chassis” here means the car’s body and underbody are modified to manage airflow for better downforce and stability. In practice, that usually involves adding aero elements (like fins, splitters, and diffusers) that change how the car is pushed onto the road at speed.

A fender flare is an extended panel around the wheel opening that covers more of the tire. It’s commonly used to improve tire coverage (helping with splash and debris) and to create clearance for wider wheels/tires or aero/track setups.

An aerodynamic upgrade is a set of body and airflow changes designed to improve how the car moves through air. Here it’s described with a rear wing, diffuser work, and other aero details that increase downforce and stability at speed.

A rear wing is an aerodynamic device mounted at the back that creates downforce by redirecting airflow. More downforce helps keep the car stable and planted, especially during hard cornering and high-speed runs.

A rear diffuser is the diffuser section at the back of the underbody. In performance cars, it’s used to generate downforce and improve stability by controlling how air expands and exits behind the car.

A diffuser is an underbody aerodynamic section that helps manage airflow under the car. An optimized front diffuser can improve downforce and reduce drag by accelerating and smoothing the air as it exits underneath.

Attack mode is a performance setting that temporarily increases the car’s output for faster acceleration and lap-time pace. In an EV, it typically means allowing higher peak power and more aggressive control of traction and power delivery.

The Nürburgring is a famous German motorsport venue, often used as a benchmark for performance cars. Because it includes the long Nordschleife layout, it’s a common place to compare lap times and claim “record” runs.

A production electric car record refers to a lap-time claim made by a car that’s considered production (not a one-off prototype). The key point is that the rules usually require a car that’s street-legal or available to customers, which makes the record more comparable.

An “MR kit” refers to a motorsport-style modification package aimed at improving lap-time performance, typically by changing aerodynamic and/or cooling behavior to suit track use. In this context, the host is saying only a tiny number of owners would need that kind of kit.

Manthey Racing is a Porsche-focused motorsport and tuning company known for developing track-oriented upgrades and race-prepped versions of Porsche models. Here, it’s mentioned as an aftermarket kit option for high-performance Taycan owners.

“Nuremberg” here refers to the Nürburgring, the famous German race circuit used for performance testing and record attempts. Automakers often cite lap times from Nürburgring events to support claims about a car’s speed and handling.

“Cross-terismo” is Porsche’s naming for a Taycan wagon-style body variant (a crossover-like estate concept). In this segment, the hosts say Porsche is ending the Cross Turismo and Sport Turismo versions, implying the wagon-like Taycan is being discontinued.

“Sport Turismo” is Porsche’s name for a more performance-leaning Taycan wagon-style variant. The segment suggests Porsche is ending both the Cross Turismo and Sport Turismo lines, likely keeping only other Taycan body styles.

The Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo is the Taycan wagon variant with a more rugged, crossover-like positioning. In this segment, the hosts discuss how Cross Turismo examples are uncommon in some regions but more common in others (like Colorado), and they connect that to how many were sold and how dealers were allowed to order them.

Dealer allocations are the limited number of vehicles a manufacturer assigns to a dealership for a given period. If a model isn’t selling well, but dealers aren’t being given enough allocations to order the exact spec customers want, it can look like demand is low when it’s actually supply/spec availability.

A “premium pack” is an option bundle that typically groups higher-end comfort, convenience, and technology features into one selectable package. The host’s example implies a common ordering pattern: choosing a popular package while not adding many other options.

In this context, “wagon” refers to the Taycan Cross Turismo / Sport Turismo body style, which combines a station-wagon-like roofline with an SUV-like stance and more cargo practicality than a sedan. The hosts argue that U.S. dealers don’t stock these “wagon” Taycans, so fewer buyers even realize they exist.

“Used values” refers to what a car sells for on the pre-owned market. The host is predicting that if the Taycan wagon variants were overlooked in marketing and dealer stocking, their resale prices could be affected compared with more visible sedan versions.

“320 kilowatt” refers to the peak charging power discussed for the Porsche Taycan’s fast-charging capability. Higher kilowatt numbers generally mean the battery can accept more energy per unit time, reducing time spent at a charger (though real-world results depend on battery temperature and state of charge).

The Porsche Taycan GTS Sport Turismo is a Taycan variant that combines the GTS performance positioning with the wagon-like Sport Turismo body style. The host is talking about it as a limited U.S. availability window and a likely “buy and hold” model, implying it may be especially desirable for enthusiasts.

Matching revs is the technique of bringing the engine speed (RPM) up to the level needed for the next gear before engaging it. It helps smooth shifting and reduces driveline shock, which is why it’s often emphasized in driving instruction for manual or enthusiast-focused driving.

Audible feedback is the sound cues a driver gets from the powertrain—like engine noise and drivetrain changes—during acceleration and shifting. The hosts argue that electric cars can be great on track, but they may lack some of this “sound-based” involvement compared with combustion cars.

A linear power curve describes how power delivery rises in a more steady, predictable way as you press the accelerator. The hosts contrast this with combustion cars, noting that electric motors can feel different because the power comes on differently—less tied to engine RPM changes.

“Motor wind” is the audible whirring/whining sound from an electric motor as it spins under load. In this segment, it’s used to describe the kind of sound electric cars provide instead of engine-and-gear sounds from combustion cars.

“Hybrid 911s” refers to Porsche 911 variants that combine an internal-combustion engine with an electric motor. The segment frames them as part of the driving experience at the school, implying they can change the sound and feel compared with a purely gas 911.

Keeping the car “in drive the whole time” means using the automatic transmission mode so the car handles gear selection without the driver manually shifting. The instructor’s instruction here highlights how the driving-school experience is being adapted for modern (including hybrid) cars where shifting isn’t the main interaction.

“Simulated sound” refers to an EV generating artificial engine-like audio through speakers to mimic the auditory cues of a combustion car. The host credits this—along with simulated shifting—for making the experience feel more natural and fun, rather than annoying.

PCM here refers to Porsche Communication Management, Porsche’s infotainment system. The host is saying the PCM is “fine,” but other parts of the interface—like screen layout and how features are presented—aren’t changing much.

The Tesla Model 3 Performance is a high-performance version of Tesla’s Model 3 electric sedan. The host uses it as a benchmark for software experience and overall “feel,” arguing the Taycan’s software is still behind compared to Tesla.

The Porsche Cayenne is Porsche’s SUV, and in this segment it’s brought up as a contrast to the Taycan. The host claims the Cayenne has better software and screen experience, and suggests the Taycan could improve if it matches that approach.

Rivian is referenced as a benchmark for software and screen usability in electric vehicles. The host implies Rivian’s user experience is simpler or more intuitive than what they see in the Porsche interface.

Tesla is mentioned as another electric-vehicle benchmark for software experience. The host is contrasting Tesla’s interface with Porsche’s, suggesting Porsche’s system can feel more confusing.

This is about residual value—how much of a car’s purchase price it retains over time. The host’s point is that buying a Taycan can lead to a steep depreciation hit, which can outweigh the car’s driving appeal.

A rev limiter is a control system that prevents an engine from exceeding safe RPM. In an electric car like the Taycan, a “virtual rev limiter” uses software to mimic the feel of an engine hitting its RPM limit, often by cutting power briefly during certain driving events.

Engine braking is the deceleration you feel when you lift off the throttle and the engine (and drivetrain) resists rotation, slowing the car. The hosts connect it to gear choice—different gears can produce different levels of engine braking, which is part of what the Taycan’s shift simulation is trying to mimic.

Regen (regenerative braking) is when an EV uses its electric motor as a generator to slow the car and send energy back to the battery. The host suggests regen can be stronger at higher revs/speeds than at lower ones, which affects how deceleration and “one-pedal” feel changes with driving conditions.

Depreciation is the loss of a car’s value over time. The host is specifically talking about how expensive EVs (like the Taycan) can drop in price quickly, which affects used-car buying decisions.

“DC fast” refers to DC fast charging, which uses direct current to charge an EV at much higher power than standard AC charging. It’s designed for quicker top-ups on trips, but it requires the correct connector and compatible charging equipment.

“Naxx” appears to be a mis-transcription of a DC fast-charging standard/connector name (commonly CCS for many EVs). The host’s point is that the car has one plug/standard for DC fast charging and a different one for AC Level 2, which can confuse new EV buyers.

Level 2 charging is an EV charging tier that uses AC power at higher power than basic “Level 1” charging. It’s typically what you use for overnight charging at home or at many public stations, and it’s slower than DC fast charging.

The Cadillac Escalade is a full-size luxury SUV known for its big size, comfort, and tech-heavy cabin. In this segment, it’s specifically discussed in the context of a gas-powered Escalade having major engine problems and recalls.

“6.2 liter” refers to engine displacement—how much air/fuel the engine can move per cycle. Larger displacement engines often have more torque, but they can also be more sensitive to specific design or maintenance issues, which is why recalls and failures get discussed in this context.

The Tesla Model Y is a compact electric SUV designed for everyday use, with seating and cargo space that fit typical family needs. The podcast mentions it because having a Model Y in the household can make charging at home more convenient. It’s a common reference point in conversations about electric vehicle ownership and charging logistics.

The Dodge Charger is a full-size, performance-focused sedan known for its muscle-car heritage and strong styling. In the podcast context, it’s mentioned alongside the idea of home charging, which highlights how electric vehicles can change day-to-day ownership routines. It’s likely being referenced as a contrast point to an electric vehicle in the same household.

A home “charger in the garage” usually means an EVSE (electric vehicle supply equipment) installed at the house. The key point here is that home charging still depends on the correct connector/standard and any required adapters.

CCS1 stands for “Combined Charging System” in the North American configuration. It’s a standardized connector used for DC fast charging, and it’s different from other plug types—so the car and charger have to match the correct standard (or use the correct adapter).

DC (direct current) is one of the two main types of electricity used for charging EVs. Some charging setups are DC-only, meaning they rely on fast-charging hardware that converts grid power into DC suitable for the battery.

AC (alternating current) is the other main type of electricity from the grid. EVs typically use AC chargers for slower charging, while the car’s onboard electronics convert AC into the DC the battery actually needs.

A switcher box is an electrical power-management component used to route or convert power between different charging modes (like AC vs DC) and connector types. In EV charging hardware, it’s often needed when the same internal cabling/lines must support multiple electrical standards.

Lucid Air is an EV whose interior packaging is being used as a comparison point for where charging electronics could fit. The speaker claims the Lucid Air has a similar “footprint” but far more usable interior space, implying the Taycan should be able to fit the needed hardware too.

The BMW M Coupe (E36) refers to a specific BMW M model based on the E36 generation, known for being a compact, performance-focused coupe. The podcast mentions it in a discussion that also touches on BMW’s “Neue Klasse” direction, suggesting it’s being used as a reference point for BMW’s performance heritage. It’s relevant because it represents a particular era of BMW M engineering and design.

“Neue Class” is BMW’s branding for a new generation of vehicle architecture and technology direction. In this segment, it’s tied to the BMW M concept and used to suggest design cues that may carry into production cars.

“Neue Klasse” is BMW’s new vehicle platform direction, referenced in the podcast alongside the “BMW M concept.” The discussion frames it as something that has just debuted, implying it’s a major step in how BMW plans to build future cars. It’s relevant because platform changes typically affect packaging, driving feel, and how EV systems are integrated.

Door handles are a body exterior feature, but their shape and placement can be a design signature on modern EVs and concept cars. Here, the hosts discuss how the BMW M concept’s door handles are positioned and shaped like “winglets,” referencing the Neue X5 styling cue.

This describes an all-wheel-drive EV layout where each wheel has its own electric motor. That setup can improve traction and allow more precise control of torque at each axle and wheel, which helps with acceleration and handling.

The BMW iX3 (G08) is an electric version of the X3 family, with “G08” indicating its generation/chassis code. The podcast references it in the context of “Gen 6 batteries,” suggesting discussion about BMW’s battery technology progression. It’s mentioned because the iX3 is a practical EV option within BMW’s lineup and is tied to ongoing battery updates.

Thermal endurance is how well a battery (or powertrain) can keep performing while resisting heat buildup. For EVs, better thermal endurance helps prevent power limiting during repeated hard acceleration or track driving.

Battery cell resistance refers to how much the cell resists electrical current flow, which turns into heat under load. Lower resistance generally improves efficiency and reduces heat generation during high-power use.

A multi-motor system is an EV drivetrain that uses more than one motor to propel the vehicle, often to distribute torque across wheels. Tuning such systems is complex because the control software must coordinate torque delivery to maintain stability and predictable handling.

“Virtual gears” are an EV feature where the car simulates gear changes (often for driver feel, noise, or control mapping) even though electric drivetrains don’t need traditional gearboxes. The episode’s theme suggests the Taycan update uses this to make acceleration and drivability feel more like a conventional performance car.

Wheel flares are body panels that extend over the wheel area, often used to cover wider tires or to manage airflow and fitment. The host mentions checking wheel flares on the “Sapphire,” implying fitment or clearance issues that can affect appearance and function.

“Multiple motors” refers to electric vehicles that use more than one electric motor, often to drive different axles or wheels. The host is arguing that coordinating multiple motors can make it difficult to get the car to feel “right” in how it drives.

The BMW M3 is BMW’s performance sedan/driver’s-car icon, known for its M division engineering and track-capable dynamics. In this segment, the host uses it as a pricing and enthusiast benchmark for an upcoming BMW electric performance sedan.

The BMW iX3 is BMW’s electric SUV built on the company’s newer electric-focused platform work. The host references it as the “basis of engineering” and “core” of BMW’s Neue Klasse approach, implying the same underlying tech philosophy is being applied to a new electric sedan.

The BMW i3 is BMW’s early mass-market electric hatchback, known for its carbon-fiber passenger cell and city-focused EV design. In this segment, the host brings it up as a potential base for an M-badged performance version (an “I3M”).

“True M car” is the idea that BMW’s M brand should stay tied to its traditional performance identity—typically associated with combustion-engine dynamics and M-specific engineering. In the conversation, the executive argues that EVs and M would “never converge” because the underlying drivetrain character is fundamentally different.

“Electric drive” refers to the propulsion system in an EV—electric motors and the control electronics that deliver torque to the wheels. The BMW executive’s point here is that he believed the M performance philosophy couldn’t be applied to EV hardware without changing what “true M” means.

“M” is BMW’s performance sub-brand, used for higher-output, track-focused versions of regular models. The hosts are debating whether BMW’s “M” identity can translate to an electric powertrain, which is a big cultural shift for enthusiasts.

Scion was a Toyota-owned brand focused on youthful, affordable cars and distinctive styling cues. Here, the speaker uses “Scion” as a visual comparison—saying the car’s side profile resembles the “round box” look of a Scion coupe.

The C-pillar is the structural support between the rear side window and the rear roof area on a car. Designers often shape the C-pillar to influence how “boxy” or flowing the roofline looks from the side and rear.

Slate Auto is mentioned as a company bringing a truck to market in the under-$30,000 electric-truck space. The comparison is about who’s targeting the same budget segment.

This segment is setting up a near-term reveal: a production debut scheduled for the 24th. It frames the discussion around pre-release information (“a couple of cats have been out of the bag”).

In EV and truck launches, reservations are deposits or sign-ups that indicate early customer interest before final pricing and production. They can be useful for gauging demand, but they’re not the same as firm orders—deposits can be small and may later be canceled.

LFP stands for lithium iron phosphate, a battery chemistry used in some EVs. Compared with nickel-based chemistries, LFP batteries are typically more thermally stable and can be cheaper, though they may have different energy density and performance characteristics.

NMC refers to nickel manganese cobalt, another common lithium-ion EV battery chemistry. It’s often used when manufacturers want higher energy density, but it can come with different cost and thermal characteristics compared with LFP.

In EV discussions, “range” means how far the vehicle can drive on a full charge. It’s typically estimated under standardized test conditions, so real-world results can vary with speed, temperature, and driving style. Battery capacity (kWh) and vehicle efficiency both strongly influence range.

The hosts discuss how using LFP battery chemistry could reduce costs for a lower-priced electric pickup. They connect battery choice to pricing strategy (moving from a higher target price down toward a lower one) and debate whether the resulting price and range are compelling to mainstream buyers.

An 800-volt battery system is designed to deliver higher electrical power to the motor and to the charger. Higher voltage can reduce current for the same power, which helps enable faster charging and less heat in the charging path.

A split pack approach divides the battery into sections so the car can adapt its charging behavior. The goal is to make an 800-volt battery compatible with 400-volt charging infrastructure while still achieving fast charging.

The Chevrolet Volt is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle that can run on electricity for a range, then switch to a gasoline engine when needed. The podcast context mentions an “800 volt battery” with a split-pack approach, which relates to how the battery system is engineered for performance and charging. It’s discussed because battery architecture is a key part of how plug-in vehicles deliver power and efficiency.

400-volt chargers are common fast-charging stations that supply power at a nominal 400V. Cars with higher-voltage architectures (like 800V) often use internal switching or pack-splitting to charge efficiently on these existing chargers.

400 kilowatts is the peak charging power the car can accept from a fast charger. The key point in the segment is that it’s described as sustained (not just a brief spike), which would translate to faster real-world charging.

Battery “cells” are the individual electrochemical units inside the pack. Using new cells with higher capacity and lower internal resistance is a common way manufacturers improve both range and fast-charging performance.

Internal resistance is how much the battery resists the flow of current inside the pack. Lower internal resistance reduces heat generation (I²R losses), allowing higher power delivery and potentially shorter charging times.

The Tello MT1 is discussed here as a small, cheap truck whose short front raises questions about crash safety. The segment focuses on battery/vehicle engineering work to pass crash safety testing, and it also touches on pricing expectations for the MT1.

Madden Gopal is described as having spent 16 years at Tesla, mainly as a safety engineer. In this segment, he’s hired to help ensure the Tello MT1 meets crash-safety testing requirements.

A crash safety test is a standardized evaluation of how a vehicle protects occupants in collisions. The segment frames it as a key hurdle for the Tello MT1, especially given the host’s concern about the short front end.

MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) is the sticker price a manufacturer recommends before taxes, registration, and dealer fees. The segment uses an “estimated starting MSRP” to discuss how expensive the Tello MT1 is expected to be.

“Body in white” (BIW) is the car’s unpainted body structure after welding and assembly, but before paint and final interior/exterior fitment. It’s a major manufacturing milestone because it determines the car’s structural quality and how the rest of the build can proceed.

An EV conversion is the process of taking a non-electric vehicle and replacing its powertrain with an electric drivetrain and battery pack. It usually involves engineering the battery mounting, wiring, motor/controller integration, and safety systems.

“EV9 modules” likely means battery modules sourced from a Kia EV9 (the EV9 is Kia’s three-row electric SUV). In an EV conversion, modules are the standardized battery sections you can assemble into a larger pack.

The Kia EV9 is a three-row, all-electric SUV designed to offer more space than a typical two-row EV. In the podcast, it’s mentioned in the context of battery modules and the idea of using or making EV9 modules, which points to discussion about EV hardware and serviceability. It’s relevant because EV9 is a prominent EV model with a focus on family-friendly packaging.

“Importing” here refers to bringing vehicles or parts from outside the country, which can add delays and paperwork. The hosts mention port holds as a common bottleneck, which can affect cost and timelines for EV projects.

The Jeep Recon is an upcoming Jeep-branded electric SUV. In this segment, the hosts focus on its EPA-rated range and the size of its battery pack, which are key specs for EV buyers comparing real-world usability.

EPA refers to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which publishes standardized EV range and energy-consumption ratings. These numbers are based on controlled testing so shoppers can compare vehicles consistently, even though real-world results can vary.

A kilowatt-hour (kWh) battery is a measure of how much electrical energy the EV can store. In this segment, the Jeep Recon is described as having a 100.5 kWh battery pack, which helps explain why it’s expected to deliver a certain range—though efficiency also matters.

“Overpromised and under-delivered” describes a situation where a manufacturer’s initial EV range estimate ends up lower than the final standardized rating. Here, the host contrasts Jeep’s hoped-for 230 miles with the EPA’s official 222-mile rating.

Stalantis is a misspoken reference to Stellantis, the automaker behind brands like Jeep. In this segment, the host uses the company name to criticize how the Jeep Recon’s efficiency and EPA range results compare to expectations.

AC charging uses alternating current, typically found at home or slower public chargers, while DC charging uses direct current for faster charging. EVs handle DC fast charging differently (often with higher power delivery), so the charging type strongly affects how quickly you can add range.

The “supercharger network” refers to Tesla’s branded fast-charging stations. In the segment, the host argues that Tesla’s agreements with automakers helped determine which charging standards new EVs would need to support to gain access.

The Rivian R2 is an upcoming or newer Rivian electric vehicle positioned as a smaller, more affordable option compared with the brand’s larger trucks. In the podcast, it’s referenced in a pricing comparison context, implying the discussion is about value and what you get for the money. It’s discussed because it helps define Rivian’s broader strategy for expanding its EV lineup.

Flash charging is a marketing term for very fast EV charging that aims to add a meaningful amount of range in a short time. It typically requires high-power charging hardware and a battery that can accept high charge rates without overheating.

BYD is a major Chinese EV and battery manufacturer that’s expanding charging and retail presence in other countries. In this segment, BYD is discussed in the context of launching fast-charging services and setting up dealerships in Canada.

State of charge (SoC) is the battery’s current charge level, usually shown as a percentage. SoC strongly affects EV performance and charging behavior—especially how quickly the battery can accept power.