Apple CarPlay in Tesla cars, VW on Superchargers, Toyota electric pickup, and more
About this episode
Fred and Seth dive into a variety of electric vehicle topics, including Tesla's potential integration of Apple CarPlay, VW's access to Superchargers, and Toyota's new electric pickup. Fred shares his recent experiences at BYD's headquarters in China, showcasing their innovative vehicles and engineering scale. The episode also covers Tesla's Powerwall recall due to fire risks, Google Maps' new feature for Supercharger availability, and Waymo's expansion into California. The discussion highlights the evolving landscape of EV technology and market strategies.
In the Electrek Podcast, we discuss the most popular news in the world of sustainable transport and energy. In this week’s episode, we discuss Apple CarPlay possibly coming to Tesla cars, VW getting access to Superchargers, a Toyota electric pickup, and more.
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Here are a few of the articles that we will discuss during the podcast:
- Tesla is working on Apple CarPlay integration, report says
- Tesla recalls over 10,000 Powerwalls in the US after several fires
- Tesla Supercharger live availability is now in Google Maps
- Volkswagen EVs finally get access to Tesla Superchargers (for real this time)
- Waymo expands service map and adds freeway access to three major US cities
- Toyota’s first electric pickup is finally here [Images]
- Toyota opens the doors to its first EV battery plant in the US, but that’s not all
Here’s the live stream for today’s episode starting at 4:00 p.m. ET (or the video after 5 p.m. ET:
https://www.youtube.com/live/TaYQYgsgsxQBYD
"...for the first time I was able to drive a BYD vehicle. I've never driven one before."
BYD is a car company from China that makes electric cars. They focus on creating vehicles that are better for the environment.
BYD is a Chinese automotive manufacturer known for producing electric vehicles and batteries. They have gained significant attention for their innovative approaches to sustainable transportation.
BYD Han
"There was the new BYD Han that has the 1,000 kilowatt charging."
The BYD Han is an electric car made by a Chinese company called BYD. It's known for its modern features and technology.
The BYD Han is a fully electric sedan produced by the Chinese automaker BYD. It features advanced technology and is part of BYD's push into the electric vehicle market.
1,000 kilowatt charging
"There was the new BYD Han that has the 1,000 kilowatt charging."
1,000 kilowatt charging means the car can charge its battery very quickly, making it easier to use electric cars without long waits at charging stations.
1,000 kilowatt charging refers to the ability of an electric vehicle to charge at a rate of 1,000 kilowatts, allowing for extremely fast charging times. This technology is crucial for enhancing the convenience of electric vehicle use.
Denza M9
"There was the Denza M9 that has the trimotor with several degrees of freedom on the rear wheel steering."
The Denza M9 is an electric car made by a company that is a partnership between two big brands, BYD and Daimler. It's designed with advanced features for electric driving.
The Denza M9 is an electric vehicle produced by Denza, a joint venture between BYD and Daimler. It features innovative technology and is designed for the modern electric vehicle market.
trimotor
"There was the Denza M9 that has the trimotor with several degrees of freedom on the rear wheel steering."
A trimotor means the car has three motors that help it go faster and handle better. This setup can make driving smoother and more responsive.
A trimotor configuration refers to a vehicle having three electric motors, which can enhance performance, traction, and handling. This setup allows for better control and power distribution across the wheels.
rear wheel steering
"with several degrees of freedom on the rear wheel steering."
Rear wheel steering means the back wheels of the car can turn, which helps the car turn better and stay stable when driving fast.
Rear wheel steering is a technology that allows the rear wheels of a vehicle to turn in the opposite direction of the front wheels at low speeds, improving maneuverability, or in the same direction at high speeds, enhancing stability.
U9
"...is the U9. We make that car like jump in the air, which is fucking crazy. And then- I was gonna say that's my favorite car, U9."
The U9 is a type of electric car that can jump and perform tricks. It's known for being very fast and having cool features that make it stand out.
The U9 is a high-performance electric vehicle known for its impressive acceleration and agility, often featuring advanced technology and design. It is notable for its ability to perform stunts like jumping, showcasing its dynamic capabilities.
0 to 60 time
"and I have this super car that goes 0 to 62 seconds. And I do little launches,..."
'0 to 60 time' is how long it takes a car to go from a complete stop to 60 miles per hour. It's a way to measure how fast a car can speed up.
The '0 to 60 time' refers to the time it takes for a car to accelerate from a complete stop to 60 miles per hour. It's a common performance metric used to gauge a vehicle's acceleration capabilities.
Chevrolet Bolt
"Does it look like a Chevy Bolt in person? It's a little smaller than a Chevy Bolt, but not that much smaller."
The Chevrolet Bolt is a small electric car that is known for being budget-friendly and having a decent driving range. It's a good option for those looking to drive an electric vehicle without spending too much.
The Chevrolet Bolt is an all-electric subcompact car known for its affordability and practicality. It offers a good range on a single charge, making it a popular choice for electric vehicle buyers.
Hyundai Kona
"...in a Uber earlier today, here in Montreal, in a Kona Electric."
The Kona Electric is a small SUV that runs on electricity instead of gasoline. It's designed to be efficient and has a good amount of space inside for passengers and cargo.
The Hyundai Kona Electric is an all-electric version of the popular Kona SUV. It combines practicality with electric efficiency, offering a spacious interior and a good driving range.
Apple CarPlay
"...we're gonna talk about Tesla and Apple CarPlay,..."
Apple CarPlay is a feature that lets you connect your iPhone to your car, so you can use apps and listen to music on your car's screen.
Apple CarPlay is a system that allows iPhone users to connect their devices to their car's infotainment system, enabling access to apps, navigation, and music through the car's display.
Supercharger
"...the Powerwall Recall, Supercharger on Google Maps. We talked about VW,..."
A Supercharger is a special station where you can quickly charge your electric car's battery, especially Tesla cars.
A Supercharger is a high-speed charging station for electric vehicles, primarily associated with Tesla, allowing for rapid recharging of the vehicle's battery.
VW
"...We talked about VW, you finally having Supercharger access,..."
VW stands for Volkswagen, a big car company from Germany that makes many different types of cars.
Volkswagen, commonly referred to as VW, is a major German automotive manufacturer known for its wide range of vehicles, including the iconic Beetle and the Golf.
Toyota Plan
"Waymo Expansion, Toyota Electric SUVs, and a new Toyota plan. After that, we're gonna have plenty of time"
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a tough SUV that can handle rough roads and is built to last a long time. People like it because it's great for adventures and has a lot of nice features inside.
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a rugged SUV known for its off-road capabilities and durability. It has a long history and is often discussed for its reliability and luxury features, making it a favorite among adventure seekers and families alike.
Tesla Model 3
"...le screen, which makes sense, especially with the Model 3, Model Y that don't have their own instrument clu..."
Tesla Model Y
"which makes sense, especially with the Model 3, Model Y that don't have their own instrument cluster."
The Tesla Model Y is an electric SUV that is similar to the Model 3 but offers more space and versatility. It also features a central touchscreen for controls.
The Tesla Model Y is a compact electric SUV that shares many components with the Model 3, offering similar technology and performance in a larger, more versatile package.
Mercedes
"Yeah, I mean, Mercedes does a great job of making CarPlay so bad that you want to use the native system..."
Mercedes is a famous car brand that makes luxury cars known for their comfort and technology.
Mercedes-Benz is a well-known luxury automotive brand, recognized for its high-quality vehicles and advanced technology features.
wireless CarPlay
"...that were in the report was that it's going to work wireless, so it's going to be wireless CarPlay too."
Wireless CarPlay lets you connect your iPhone to your car without using a cable, making it easier to use your phone while driving.
Wireless CarPlay allows users to connect their iPhones to the car's infotainment system without needing a physical cable, enhancing convenience and ease of use.
PowerWall
"...of overeating of the PowerWall so that they can quickly lift them up..."
The PowerWall is a battery made by Tesla that stores electricity. It can help power your home when the sun isn't shining or during a power outage.
The Tesla PowerWall is a rechargeable lithium-ion battery designed for residential energy storage. It stores energy from solar panels or the grid for use during peak times or outages.
thermal event
"And possible thermal event. It's hard to trust that Tesla to do the right thing these days."
A thermal event is when something gets too hot and can cause a fire or explosion. In electric cars, this usually happens with the batteries if they have problems.
A thermal event refers to an occurrence where excessive heat is generated, potentially leading to fires or explosions, particularly in battery systems. In the context of electric vehicles, it often relates to battery malfunctions or failures.
BMS issue
"after a software update, like the BMS issue where something goes wrong"
BMS means Battery Management System, which helps keep the battery safe and working well. If there's a problem with the BMS, it can cause the battery to overheat or not charge properly.
BMS stands for Battery Management System, which is crucial for monitoring and managing the performance, safety, and longevity of a battery pack. A BMS issue can lead to improper charging, overheating, or even battery failure.
Google Maps
"on your Google Maps on your car, you can also get live availability of Supercharger..."
Google Maps is an app that helps you find directions and places. You can use it on your phone or in your car to navigate.
Google Maps is a web mapping service that provides users with directions, traffic information, and local business information, accessible through various devices including smartphones and car infotainment systems.
EV integration
"that's, I think a big step up for non-Tesla EV integration into the network..."
EV integration means how well electric cars work with things like charging stations and navigation apps to make driving easier.
EV integration refers to the compatibility and functionality of electric vehicles (EVs) with various technologies and infrastructure, such as charging networks and navigation systems.
adapter
"...In term of the adapter, what are they doing for adapter? So Volkswagen vehicles we have to use..."
An adapter is a tool that helps connect your electric car to different charging stations. It makes sure your car can charge no matter what type of plug the station has.
An adapter in the context of electric vehicles is a device that allows a vehicle to connect to different types of charging stations or plugs. It ensures compatibility between the vehicle's charging port and the charging infrastructure.
Volkswagen Id4
"...I think that ID4 can ID Bos owner for the model year 25 vehicle is eligible for $100 rebate on the adapter."
The Volkswagen ID.4 is a fully electric SUV made by Volkswagen. It's designed to be eco-friendly and has a lot of modern features for drivers.
The Volkswagen ID.4 is an all-electric SUV that is part of Volkswagen's ID family of electric vehicles. It offers a spacious interior, advanced technology, and a range of electric driving capabilities.
Waymo
"We've seen it, we've seen some Waymo drives without anyone in the car on the freeway."
Waymo is a company that makes self-driving cars. They started as part of Google and are now working on cars that can drive themselves without anyone inside.
Waymo is a self-driving technology company that originated from Google's self-driving car project. They are known for developing autonomous vehicles that can operate without human intervention.
LiDAR sensor
"...with radars and LiDAR sensor which are better at determining the distance"
A LiDAR sensor is a device that helps self-driving cars see their surroundings. It uses lasers to measure how far away things are, creating a 3D map of the area around the car.
LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) sensors use laser light to measure distances and create detailed 3D maps of the environment. They are crucial for autonomous vehicles to detect obstacles and navigate safely.
radar
"...with radars and LiDAR sensor which are better at determining the distance"
Radar is a technology that helps cars detect other objects around them. It uses radio waves to find out how far away things are and how fast they are moving.
Radar (Radio Detection and Ranging) is a technology that uses radio waves to detect objects and measure their distance and speed. In autonomous vehicles, radar helps in monitoring the environment and avoiding collisions.
kilowatt charge rate
"...what he referred to as child's toys, which was a 350 kilowatt charge rate. They just now have been deploying 500 kilowatt station."
Kilowatt charge rate is how fast an electric car can charge its battery. The higher the number, the quicker it can fill up the battery, which is important for people who drive electric cars.
A kilowatt charge rate refers to the amount of power (in kilowatts) that an electric vehicle (EV) can receive from a charging station. Higher kilowatt rates allow for faster charging times, which is crucial for EV users who need to recharge quickly during their travels.
Toyota Hilux
"It's the, how do they call that that? Hilux, is that all you spell that Hilux? Yeah, Hilux."
The Toyota Hilux is a strong truck that can handle tough jobs and rough roads. It's popular because it's very reliable and can last a long time, making it a favorite for people who need a hardworking vehicle.
The Toyota Hilux is a highly regarded pickup truck known for its toughness and reliability, especially in off-road conditions. It has a strong following in various markets and is often celebrated for its durability and performance.
Ram 1500
"...in capacity we've seen and a max pale capacity of 1500 pounds, 7,715 kilograms. WLTP range is expected a..."
The Ram 1500 is a big truck that can carry heavy loads and tow trailers. It's popular because it's not only tough but also comfortable to drive, which is why people often talk about it.
The Ram 1500 is a full-size pickup truck known for its strong towing capacity and comfortable ride. It has been a popular choice among truck enthusiasts for its blend of utility and refinement, making it a significant player in the competitive truck market.
Tesla Cybertruck
"...he only other thing that I can think of is like a Cybertruck, the range, and that was a flop. Of course, the p..."
The Tesla Cybertruck is a new electric truck that looks very different from regular trucks. Some people are excited about its cool design and technology, but others think it might not work as well as expected.
The Tesla Cybertruck is an all-electric pickup known for its futuristic design and impressive performance metrics. Despite its ambitious features, it has faced criticism and skepticism regarding its practicality and production timeline.
Ford Ranchero
"...specs look disappointing, but I expect Ford's new Ranchero mini pickup thingy to also use a much smaller bat..."
The Ford Ranchero is a mix between a car and a truck, which makes it special. It was popular a long time ago for people who wanted something that could carry stuff but still drive like a regular car.
The Ford Ranchero is a unique vehicle that combines features of a car and a pickup truck, often referred to as a 'car-truck.' It has a nostalgic appeal and is discussed for its innovative design during its production years in the 1960s and 1970s.
Toyota Yaris
"... I think I kind of am blanking right now, but the Toyota Yaris kind of market, like on the axle, I know that the..."
The Toyota Yaris iA is a small car that's easy to drive and good on gas. It's a great choice for people who want a budget-friendly car for getting around town.
The Toyota Yaris iA is a subcompact sedan that offers a practical and economical choice for city driving. It is appreciated for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and compact size, making it a popular option for first-time car buyers.
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