AAH #774 - Talkin' AI, AVs and EVs
About this episode
Exploring the latest advancements in AI, autonomous vehicles (AVs), and electric vehicles (EVs), this episode features insights from industry veterans Larry Burns and Jamie Butters. Key discussions include groundbreaking technology from Numo AI that can detect brain waves to assess driver alertness, the role of AI in enhancing vehicle safety, and the potential impact of humanoid robots on manufacturing. The conversation also delves into the future of transportation, including the challenges of integrating hydrogen fuel cells and the implications of rising vehicle costs on consumer behavior.
autonomous driving
"...the entire job of autonomous driving is pivoting to not just sensing, but sensing and reasoning. And a lot of exciting opportunities when you begin to think about that..."
Autonomous driving means that a car can drive itself without needing a person to control it. It uses special technology to see what's around it and decide how to drive safely.
Autonomous driving refers to the technology that allows a vehicle to navigate and drive itself without human intervention. This involves a combination of sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence to perceive the environment and make driving decisions.
NVIDIA brain
"...with the NVIDIA brain and the ability of the different players to then tailor their autonomous systems to their unique brand value propositions."
The 'NVIDIA brain' is a computer system made by NVIDIA that helps cars understand their surroundings and drive themselves. It's like a smart brain for the car that processes a lot of information quickly.
The 'NVIDIA brain' refers to NVIDIA's advanced computing platform used in vehicles for processing data from sensors and enabling features like autonomous driving. NVIDIA is known for its powerful graphics processing units (GPUs) that are increasingly used in automotive applications.
level four technology
"...But I'm talking L4, level four technology. We've just reported on Auto Line Daily today."
Level four technology means that a car can drive itself in certain situations without needing a driver to take control. It's more advanced than just basic self-driving features.
Level four technology refers to a specific level of automation in vehicles where they can operate without human intervention in certain conditions. This is part of the SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) classification system for automated driving systems.
liability issues
"...there's this question about the handoff and there's, especially in the United States, liability issues."
Liability issues are about who is responsible if a self-driving car gets into an accident. This is important for car companies to figure out as they make these cars.
Liability issues in the context of autonomous vehicles refer to the legal responsibilities and potential lawsuits that may arise if an autonomous vehicle is involved in an accident. These issues are crucial for automakers as they develop self-driving technology.
Volkswagen
"As opposed to, I mean, Volkswagen seemed like they tried to failed and then went with the Rivian plan."
Volkswagen is a well-known car brand from Germany that makes many popular cars. They are also working on new technologies like electric cars and self-driving cars.
Volkswagen is a major German automotive manufacturer known for producing a wide range of vehicles, including the iconic Beetle and the Golf. The company has been involved in various technological advancements, including electric vehicles and autonomous driving.
Rivian
"and then went with the Rivian plan. Maybe whether it's Rivian or it's Qualcomm or it's NVIDIA, there are other partners."
Rivian is a new American company that makes electric trucks and SUVs. They are trying to change how people think about electric vehicles.
Rivian is an American electric vehicle manufacturer that focuses on producing electric trucks and SUVs. They are known for their innovative approach to electric mobility and have gained attention for their R1T pickup and R1S SUV.
Qualcomm
"Maybe whether it's Rivian or it's Qualcomm or it's NVIDIA, there are other partners."
Qualcomm is a tech company that makes computer chips and helps cars connect to the internet. They also work on technology for self-driving cars.
Qualcomm is a technology company known for its semiconductor and telecommunications products, particularly in mobile devices. They are also involved in automotive technology, providing solutions for connectivity and autonomous driving.
bespoke software
"instead of everybody trying to invent bespoke software, bespoke autonomy and so on and so on."
Bespoke software is custom-made software that is created for a specific purpose or company, rather than using general software that anyone can buy. In cars, it means software made just for that car's needs.
Bespoke software refers to custom software specifically designed and developed for a particular user or organization, rather than off-the-shelf solutions. In the automotive context, it can relate to tailored software for vehicle systems and features.
autonomous hardware
"Well, Doug Fields announced last week at CES about how Ford is developing its own autonomous hardware."
Autonomous hardware includes all the parts in a car that help it drive by itself, like cameras and sensors. These parts work together to make the car smart enough to drive without a person controlling it.
Autonomous hardware refers to the physical components and systems in a vehicle that enable it to operate without human intervention. This includes sensors, cameras, and processing units that work together to facilitate self-driving capabilities.
Peak Auto
"...you brought up Peak Auto. You talked about the fact that the prices of cars are getting close to $50,000 and something's going to have to give."
Peak Auto is when the number of cars sold reaches its highest point and then starts to go down. It means that fewer people might want to buy cars in the future because of high prices or other reasons.
Peak Auto refers to the point at which car ownership and sales reach their highest levels, after which a decline is expected due to factors like market saturation or changing consumer preferences. This concept suggests that the automotive industry may face challenges as prices rise and demand shifts.
Innovator's Dilemma
"...there's a lot of literature called the Innovator's Dilemma of Clayton Christensen that says when a vehicle or a product gets way over specified for its fundamental value proposition..."
The Innovator's Dilemma is a theory that says successful companies can fail if they don't pay attention to new ideas or changes in what customers want. They might stick to what works for them and miss out on new opportunities.
The Innovator's Dilemma is a theory by Clayton Christensen that explains how successful companies can fail by focusing too much on their current customers and products, leading them to overlook new technologies or market shifts that could disrupt their business. It highlights the challenges of innovation in established industries.
autonomous vehicles
"We're talking about autonomous and electric cars when you put them together, having half as many parts and radically even fewer moving parts than a combustion vehicle that's driven by a person."
Autonomous vehicles are cars that can drive on their own without needing a person to control them. They use technology like cameras and sensors to navigate and make decisions while driving.
Autonomous vehicles are cars that can drive themselves without human intervention, using a combination of sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence. They represent a significant shift in automotive technology, aiming to improve safety and efficiency on the roads.
electric cars
"We're talking about autonomous and electric cars when you put them together, having half as many parts and radically even fewer moving parts than a combustion vehicle that's driven by a person."
Electric cars are vehicles that run on electricity instead of gasoline or diesel. They use batteries to power an electric motor, which makes them cleaner for the environment since they don't produce exhaust fumes.
Electric cars are powered by electric motors and batteries instead of traditional internal combustion engines. They produce zero tailpipe emissions and are considered more environmentally friendly compared to conventional vehicles.
combustion vehicle
"...radically even fewer moving parts than a combustion vehicle that's driven by a person."
A combustion vehicle is a car that runs on fuel like gasoline or diesel. It works by burning the fuel in an engine to create power, which makes it move.
A combustion vehicle refers to any vehicle powered by an internal combustion engine, which burns fuel (like gasoline or diesel) to create power. This type of vehicle typically has more moving parts compared to electric or autonomous vehicles.
anti-lock brakes
"...when GM developed anti-lock brakes, it was anti-lock brake generation 6 that finally went across the board on GM's products. So we're talking about six generations of learning."
Anti-lock brakes help prevent your car's wheels from stopping completely when you brake hard, which helps you steer better and avoid accidents. They have been improved over the years to work even better.
Anti-lock brakes (ABS) are a safety feature in vehicles that prevent the wheels from locking up during braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control. This technology has evolved over several generations to improve performance and reliability.
ABS
"So Larry, let me ask you, go back to the six generations of ABS"
ABS is a system in cars that helps prevent the wheels from stopping completely when you brake hard. This helps you steer better and avoid accidents, especially on wet or slippery roads.
ABS stands for Anti-lock Braking System, a safety feature in vehicles that prevents the wheels from locking up during braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control. It enhances safety by reducing the risk of skidding and improving stopping distance on slippery surfaces.
Ford Lightning
"So if we apply this to electric vehicles, is it a mistake for Ford to come out with a lightning?"
The Ford Lightning is an electric truck that Ford makes. It's designed to be powerful and useful like regular trucks but runs on electricity instead of gasoline.
The Ford Lightning is an all-electric version of the Ford F-150 pickup truck, designed to compete in the growing electric vehicle market. It features advanced technology and performance capabilities, appealing to both traditional truck buyers and new electric vehicle customers.
Chevrolet Silverado
"...rt. You didn't need to learn on a lightning or a Silverado with 2,000-pound batteries what people wanted in..."
The Chevrolet Silverado is a big truck that can carry heavy loads and tow trailers. It's popular because it's strong and can be used for many different tasks, like work or family trips.
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup truck known for its robust performance, versatility, and capability. It has been a popular choice for both work and personal use, often discussed for its balance of power and comfort.
electric vehicles
"I believe what happened there was Tesla won the prize with electric vehicles in the luxury segment and the boards of these companies probably told their leadership..."
Electric vehicles are cars that run on electricity instead of gas. They are better for the environment because they don't pollute the air like regular cars do.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are cars that are powered entirely or partially by electricity instead of traditional gasoline or diesel. They are known for being more environmentally friendly as they produce zero tailpipe emissions.
Chevrolet Bolt
"And it broke my heart that GM stopped the Bolt, which was a beautiful learning platform,"
The Chevrolet Bolt is an electric car that you can charge instead of filling up with gas. It's designed to be more affordable and has a good driving range.
The Chevrolet Bolt is an all-electric hatchback known for its affordability and range. It was one of the first mass-market electric vehicles from GM.
Cadillac
"...initially something like that would have come out as an option on one model of a Cadillac. And then there was enough interest in it to say..."
Cadillac is a brand of luxury cars known for being stylish and comfortable. They often include advanced technology and safety features in their vehicles.
Cadillac is a luxury vehicle brand known for its high-quality cars and innovative technologies. It has a long history of introducing advanced features, including safety systems like ABS.
GM
"...GM Ford. Tesla. Well, Tesla made a big mistake too, and so did Ram."
GM stands for General Motors, a big company that makes cars like Chevrolet and Cadillac.
GM, or General Motors, is one of the largest automobile manufacturers in the world, known for brands like Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, and Buick.
product planning fiasco
"...it's probably the biggest product planning fiasco in the history of the industry. And to your point, it would have been better to start small."
A product planning fiasco is when a company makes big mistakes in deciding what products to make, which can lead to them not selling well.
A product planning fiasco refers to a significant failure in the strategy or execution of developing and launching a product, often leading to poor market performance.
Tesla Model S
"...k they were all scarred by seeing not only Tesla Model S and Onward do so well, but that it came out at t..."
The Tesla Model S is a fancy electric car that can go really fast and has a long battery life. It's important because it shows how electric cars can be just as good, if not better, than regular gas cars.
The Tesla Model S is a luxury electric sedan that has set benchmarks for performance, range, and technology in the electric vehicle market. Its success has influenced the automotive industry, pushing other manufacturers to accelerate their electric vehicle offerings.
Tesla Model
"...I think they were all scarred by seeing not only Tesla Model S and Onward do so well, but that it came out at..."
range
"underpowered, not enough range, even though it was plenty of range for most of us,"
Range is how far an electric car can go before it needs to be charged again. It's important because it tells you if you can drive it for long distances without stopping to recharge.
In the context of electric vehicles, range refers to the distance a car can travel on a single charge of its battery. Range is a critical factor for potential buyers as it affects the vehicle's usability for daily driving and long trips.
Nissan Leafs
"for most of our drives, if we have worse vehicles. No, not the first Leaf. The first Leaf's range was pretty short. But I think people were afraid of making that mistake"
The Nissan Leaf is an electric car that was made to be affordable and easy to drive. Some early versions didn't go very far on a single charge, which made people worried about using it for long trips.
The Nissan Leaf is one of the first mass-produced electric cars, known for its affordability and practicality. While it has been significant in popularizing electric vehicles, early models had limitations in range that made some potential buyers hesitant.
Toyota RAV4
"more like a RAV4 escape size, maybe, that would be smaller, lighter, but actually fits what Americans like to buy."
The Toyota RAV4 is a small SUV that many people in America like to drive because it has a lot of space and is easy to use. It's a good choice for families and everyday travel.
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV that has been popular in the U.S. for its practicality and versatility. It offers a good balance of space, comfort, and fuel efficiency, making it a favorite among families and commuters.
Ford Expedition
"...n devices rather than a fully loaded suburban or expedition or... I'm saying that, yes, Gary,"
The Ford Expedition is a large SUV that can fit a lot of people and stuff inside. It's great for families and trips because it has plenty of space and can drive on different types of roads.
The Ford Expedition is a full-size SUV designed for families and those needing ample space and towing capacity. It is often highlighted for its comfort, technology features, and ability to handle both on-road and off-road conditions.
Formula One racing
"These companies can decide how to deploy their capital and whether or not they're going to put their money into Formula One racing or their money into the sweet spot of the auto industry serving most of what most Americans do."
Formula One racing is a popular type of car racing where specially designed cars compete at very high speeds on tracks around the world. It's famous for its exciting races and cutting-edge car technology.
Formula One racing is a high-level international motorsport that features single-seater cars competing in a series of races known as Grands Prix. It is known for its advanced technology, high speeds, and significant financial investment from automotive manufacturers and sponsors.
fuel efficiency
"...the good fuel efficiency, and so on."
Fuel efficiency tells you how far a car can go on a gallon of gas. The better the fuel efficiency, the less money you spend on gas.
Fuel efficiency measures how far a vehicle can travel on a specific amount of fuel, typically expressed in miles per gallon (MPG). Higher fuel efficiency means better gas mileage and lower fuel costs for the owner.
radar
"...within the autonomous driving system for radar, which is a really big deal, Jamie, because radar is less costly than LiDAR..."
Radar is a technology that helps cars detect other objects around them using radio waves. It can tell how far away something is and how fast it's moving, which is important for safe driving.
Radar, which stands for Radio Detection and Ranging, uses radio waves to detect objects and measure their distance and speed. In autonomous driving, radar is crucial for detecting other vehicles and obstacles, especially in various weather conditions.
Bridgestone
"...you look at the tire industry and I know Bridgestone is your sponsor and I know they're into this as well as other companies like Goodyear,..."
Bridgestone is a big company that makes tires for cars and trucks. They are working on new types of tires that can share information about how they're doing.
Bridgestone is a major global tire manufacturer known for producing a wide range of tires for various vehicles, including passenger cars, trucks, and motorcycles. They are also involved in innovative tire technologies, such as smart tires that can communicate data about their condition.
Goodyear
"...as well as other companies like Goodyear, but the smart tire, for example,..."
Goodyear is a well-known company that makes tires for many kinds of vehicles. They are also looking into new technologies to improve their tires.
Goodyear is another leading tire manufacturer that produces a variety of tires for different types of vehicles. They are known for their advancements in tire technology and performance, including innovations in smart tire technology.
smart tire
"...but the smart tire, for example, and the ability to take what some people think is a commodity..."
A smart tire is a special tire that can send information about its condition, like how much air is inside or if it's getting worn out. This helps drivers know when to check or change their tires.
A smart tire is an advanced type of tire that incorporates sensors and communication technology to monitor various parameters such as pressure, temperature, and tread wear. This data can help improve safety and performance by providing real-time information to drivers and vehicle systems.
Peugeot Ions
"... fundamentals of electrons and hydrogen atoms and ions and the makeup of natural gas and how we energize..."
The Peugeot iOn is a tiny electric car made for driving around the city without polluting. It's easy to park and helps keep the air clean.
The Peugeot iOn is a small electric vehicle that was designed for urban commuting, offering a compact size and zero emissions. It is part of the growing trend of electric cars aimed at reducing environmental impact in city driving.
Audi Tt
"...m not going to say I don't do this. I do have an Audi TT. My wife's car is a two-seater, but our other ve..."
The Audi TT RS is a sporty car that looks cool and drives really fast. It's a fun car for people who love to drive and want something stylish.
The Audi TT RS is a high-performance version of the compact Audi TT sports car, known for its powerful engine and sporty handling. It represents Audi's commitment to blending luxury with performance, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
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