AD #3821 - BYD, Geely IC Engines Hit 46% Thermal Efficiency; BMW 3-Series Goes Hybrid-Only; Kenworth’s Super-Slick Class-8 Semi
About this episode
Chinese automakers BYD and Geely have developed highly efficient 1.5-liter engines achieving 46% thermal efficiency, potentially the world's best, powering affordable PHEV sedans. VinFast delays its US plant opening amid low sales, while the EU considers raising tariffs on Chinese EVs amid trade tensions. Cadillac expands its EV lineup with the new Optic SUV targeting younger luxury buyers. BMW shifts the 3-Series to mild hybrids except for base and M3 models, enhancing efficiency and tech. Kenworth unveils a futuristic aerodynamic hybrid semi concept promising major fuel savings. Ford teases a high-performance electric F-150 Lightning for Pike’s Peak racing. China invests heavily in solid-state battery development to maintain EV battery dominance.
Cadillac Lyric
"...ise for more quiet comfort. We think the Cadillac Lyric may be out selling all other luxury e in the US m..."
Cadillac Xt
"...e, two row SUV that's five inches longer than the Cadillac XT five. It features an eighty five kilowaate hour b..."
Tesla Semi
"...ept. We would kind of describe it like a testless semi on steroids. It has a central seating position, a..."
Volkswagen Bus
"...seating position, a side stairs step like a large bus, and the overall shape is similar. But the Super ..."
Chevrolet Volt
"...els. Kenworth was able to package the forty eight volt mild hybrid diesel power train from parent compan..."
Ford F-150 Lightning
"...'s Peak in June. It's based on the F one to fifty Lightning, but even in this teaser video you can see the up..."
Dodge Journey
"... brought to you by Bridgestone Solutions for your journey Intrepid control systems over the air engineering..."
Request an Explanation
Heard something you'd like explained? We'll add it to this episode.
Sign in to request explanations for terms you heard.
Want to learn more?
Browse our glossary for plain-English explanations of automotive terms, jargon, and concepts.
Help improve this episode
See something that's not quite right? Our annotations are AI-generated and can sometimes miss the mark. Click the flag icon on any annotation to suggest a correction.