[Archive] DAILY: U.S. EV Sales Hit Record, VW EV Update and Mercedes-Benz Add AI | 12 Oct 2025
About this episode
U.S. EV sales have reached a record high in Q3, driven by the expiration of federal tax credits, with Tesla leading the market. Volkswagen also reported significant growth in BEV sales globally. The episode discusses Mercedes-Benz's integration of AI into their vehicles, enhancing user interaction with conversational capabilities. Additionally, the podcast covers Ford and GM's recent changes to leasing programs and the controversy surrounding Tesla's new in-car advertising feature linked to Disney's Tron. The episode is packed with insights on market trends and technological advancements in the EV space.
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U.S. EV SALES REACH 438,487 IN Q3 https://evne.ws/4nKgdId
VW GROUP Q3 2025 EV DELIVERY UPDATE https://evne.ws/4oljhuv
CLA TO INCLUDE GEMINI AI BY END OF 2025 https://evne.ws/4q6K9jx
MERCEDES ELF: 1 MW AND WIRELESS CHARGING https://evne.ws/4o9Ynyi
NISSAN ARIYA GETS SUBTLE FACELIFT https://evne.ws/42BZDSs
AUTOMAKERS END PROGRAMS USING EV TAX CREDIT LOOPHOLE https://evne.ws/3ILtscG
FORD CUTS PRICES ON F-150 LIGHTNING TRIMS https://evne.ws/4n0zS5q
TESLA ADDS TRON: ARES VISUALS TO CARS https://evne.ws/4hhb2gI
Tesla Model 3
"The Tesla Model Y and Model 3 leading the way, by the way. The Y was estimated to have sold 114,000..."
The Tesla Model 3 is a smaller electric car from Tesla that is very popular. It offers a good driving range and many high-tech features, making it a great choice for those looking to go electric.
The Tesla Model 3 is a compact all-electric sedan that has become one of the best-selling electric cars worldwide. It is known for its impressive range, performance, and advanced safety features.
Tesla Model
"...nine of them, though, exceeded 10,000 units. The Tesla Model Y and Model 3 leading the way, by the way. The Y..."
Chevy Equinox
"The new Chevy Equinox continues to sell really well."
The Chevy Equinox is a small SUV made by Chevrolet. It's popular for its roomy interior and good safety ratings, making it a good option for families.
The Chevy Equinox is a compact SUV produced by Chevrolet. It is known for its spacious interior, safety features, and fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice among families.
Volkswagen Group
"Now, Volkswagen Group delivered a lot of BEVs worldwide in the last quarter. 252,000 of them were sold globally in the last quarter."
Volkswagen Group is a large car company from Germany that makes many different brands of cars. They are important in the electric car market.
Volkswagen Group is a major automotive manufacturer based in Germany, known for producing a wide range of vehicles under various brands, including Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche, and more. They have been a significant player in the electric vehicle (BEV) market.
BEV
"Now, Volkswagen Group delivered a lot of BEVs worldwide in the last quarter. 252,000 of them were sold globally in the last quarter."
BEV means Battery Electric Vehicle. It's a car that runs only on electricity and doesn't use gas or oil, making it better for the environment.
BEV stands for Battery Electric Vehicle, which is a type of vehicle that is powered entirely by electricity and does not use any gasoline or diesel. These vehicles rely on large battery packs to store energy and are known for being environmentally friendly.
Volkswagen ID.3
"...let's look at the year to date. That is Volkswagen ID.3, sorry,..."
The Volkswagen ID.3 is a fully electric car that is designed to be affordable and practical for everyday use. It's part of Volkswagen's range of electric vehicles.
The Volkswagen ID.3 is an all-electric hatchback that is part of Volkswagen's ID family of electric vehicles. It is designed to be an affordable and practical option for consumers looking to transition to electric driving.
Volkswagen Id3
"let's look at the year to date. That is Volkswagen ID.3, sorry, Volkswagen ID.4, ID.5 lumped together."
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is an electric minivan that looks a lot like the old VW buses from the past. It's designed to be fun and spacious while being good for the environment since it doesn't use gas. Volkswagen is making this car to attract both old fans and new customers who want electric vehicles.
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is an electric minivan that pays homage to the classic VW Microbus, reimagined for the modern age. It combines retro styling with cutting-edge electric technology, aiming to appeal to both nostalgic customers and new EV buyers. The ID. Buzz is part of Volkswagen's broader strategy to electrify its lineup and compete in the growing electric vehicle market.
Volkswagen Id4
"That is Volkswagen ID.3, sorry, Volkswagen ID.4, ID.5 lumped together. Almost 130,000 of those."
Volkswagen Id5
"...let's look at the year to date. That is Volkswagen ID.3, sorry, Volkswagen ID.4, ID.5 lumped together."
The Volkswagen ID.5 is a sportier version of the ID.4, designed as a coupe-style electric SUV. It combines the benefits of an SUV with a more stylish look.
The Volkswagen ID.5 is a coupe-style electric SUV that builds on the ID.4 platform, offering a sportier design and performance features. It is part of Volkswagen's growing lineup of electric vehicles.
Audi Q4
"Then the Q4 from Audi. And that includes the Sportback figures as well."
The Audi Q4 is a smaller electric SUV from Audi that offers a luxurious feel and modern technology, making it a great choice for eco-conscious drivers.
The Audi Q4 is a compact electric SUV that combines Audi's luxury features with electric performance. It is part of Audi's e-tron lineup, focusing on sustainability and advanced technology.
Volkswagen Id7
"VW ID.7, including the Tora, which is possibly one of the best EVs you can buy right now."
The VW ID.7 is a fully electric sedan made by Volkswagen. It's designed to be roomy and comfortable, while also being good for the environment.
The VW ID.7 is an electric sedan from Volkswagen, designed to provide a spacious and comfortable driving experience while maintaining efficiency and sustainability.
Porsche Macan
"Then the Buzz and the Porsche Macan and the Coupre."
The Porsche Macan is a small luxury SUV from Porsche that offers a sporty driving experience and a stylish design, perfect for those who want both luxury and performance.
The Porsche Macan is a compact luxury SUV that combines sporty performance with practicality. It features Porsche's signature design and driving dynamics, making it a popular choice among luxury SUV buyers.
AI
"Now, AI is making its way into cars in China. We've known that for a long time."
AI stands for artificial intelligence, which is technology that helps computers think and learn like humans. In cars, it can help with things like voice commands and smart features.
AI, or artificial intelligence, refers to computer systems that can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as understanding natural language, recognizing patterns, and making decisions. In cars, AI can enhance features like navigation and voice control.
Mercedes-Benz
"Mercedes-Benz will ship their new CLA, one of the EVs of the year, by the way,"
Mercedes-Benz is a well-known luxury car brand that makes high-end vehicles with advanced technology and comfort features.
Mercedes-Benz is a luxury automotive brand known for its high-quality vehicles, innovative technology, and performance. It is part of the Daimler AG group.
CLA
"Mercedes-Benz will ship their new CLA, one of the EVs of the year, by the way,"
The CLA is a small luxury car made by Mercedes-Benz, known for its stylish look and comfortable features.
The Mercedes-Benz CLA is a compact luxury sedan that combines style and performance, often featuring advanced technology and a sporty design.
EVs
"one of the EVs of the year, by the way, with Google's conversational AI system called Gemini."
EVs stands for electric vehicles, which are cars that run on electricity instead of gas. They are better for the environment and can save money on fuel.
EVs, or electric vehicles, are cars that are powered entirely by electricity instead of gasoline or diesel. They are known for being more environmentally friendly and often have lower running costs.
Google's conversational AI system
"with Google's conversational AI system called Gemini. And it will ship in the United States"
This is a technology from Google that lets you talk to your car and ask it questions or give it commands, making it easier to use while driving.
Google's conversational AI system is a technology that allows users to interact with devices using natural language. In vehicles, it can provide voice-activated controls and information, enhancing the driving experience.
Polestar 2
"...during drives. I cannot wait for Gemini to end up in my Polestar 2."
The Polestar 2 is a modern electric car made by Polestar. It's designed to be stylish and high-tech, making it a competitor to other electric cars like the Tesla Model 3.
The Polestar 2 is an all-electric fastback produced by Polestar, a performance electric brand that originated from Volvo. It features advanced technology and a minimalist design, aimed at competing with other electric vehicles in the market.
megawatt charging
"Now, Mercedes-Benz are also working on megawatt charging, and wireless charging too."
Megawatt charging is a way to charge electric cars very quickly, using a lot of power at once. This helps electric vehicles get back on the road faster, especially for big trucks and buses.
Megawatt charging refers to a high-power charging standard for electric vehicles that allows for much faster charging times compared to conventional chargers. This technology is particularly important for heavy-duty electric vehicles and fleets.
wireless charging
"Now, Mercedes-Benz are also working on megawatt charging, and wireless charging too."
Wireless charging lets electric cars charge without needing to plug in a cable. Instead, they use special technology to transfer power through the air, making it easier to charge up.
Wireless charging for electric vehicles uses electromagnetic fields to transfer energy between two objects, allowing vehicles to charge without plugging in. This technology aims to make charging more convenient and accessible.
experimental EV
"This is an experimental EV,"
An experimental EV is a test version of an electric car that is being used to try out new ideas and technologies. These cars are usually not sold to the public yet.
An experimental EV (electric vehicle) is a prototype or concept vehicle that is being tested for new technologies or designs. These vehicles are often not available for sale and are used to explore advancements in electric mobility.
Mercedes-Benz EQV
"...a bit like the EQV, actually a van, but it's an experimental electric vehicle,..."
The EQV is a fully electric van made by Mercedes-Benz. It is designed for comfort and technology, making it a good choice for families or groups.
The Mercedes-Benz EQV is an electric van that offers a spacious interior and advanced technology for passengers. It's part of Mercedes-Benz's EQ lineup, which focuses on electric mobility.
thermal management
"used to probe things like thermal management, resilience, components, under extreme load and high temperatures."
Thermal management is about keeping the car's parts at the right temperature. It's important for electric cars to make sure the batteries don't get too hot or too cold, which helps them work better and last longer.
Thermal management refers to the process of controlling the temperature of a vehicle's components to ensure optimal performance and safety. This is especially important in electric vehicles where battery temperatures need to be regulated to prevent overheating and maintain efficiency.
CCS2 connector
"The ELF, which is their test vehicle, also uses a CCS2 connector. They've pushed about 900 kilowatts through CCS2, so it can be done."
The CCS2 connector is a type of plug used to charge electric cars. It can charge the car quickly and works with many different charging stations, making it easier for drivers to find a place to charge.
The CCS2 (Combined Charging System 2) connector is a standard for charging electric vehicles that allows for both AC and DC fast charging. It is widely used in Europe and is designed to enable faster charging times compared to traditional connectors.
kilowatt
"They've pushed about 900 kilowatts through CCS2, so it can be done. And that would add, you know, a full battery, 100 kilowatt hours in 10 minutes."
A kilowatt is a way to measure how much power something uses. For electric cars, it tells you how quickly the car can charge or how much energy it uses when driving.
A kilowatt (kW) is a unit of power equal to 1,000 watts. In the context of electric vehicles, it measures the rate at which energy is used or produced, such as during charging or when driving.
Tata Motors Aria
"...are working on this. Let's talk about the Nissan Aria, getting a pretty subtle facelift."
Nissan Aria
"...s-Benz are working on this. Let's talk about the Nissan Aria, getting a pretty subtle facelift."
The Nissan Ariya is a new electric SUV that runs on batteries instead of gasoline. It has a modern look and lots of space inside, making it a good choice for families. The recent updates to its design show that Nissan wants to keep it attractive to buyers.
The Nissan Ariya is an all-electric crossover SUV that showcases Nissan's commitment to electric mobility. With a sleek design and advanced technology, the Ariya aims to compete in the growing electric vehicle market, offering features like a spacious interior and various driving ranges. Its recent facelift indicates Nissan's effort to keep the model fresh and appealing to consumers.
facelift
"Let's talk about the Nissan Aria, getting a pretty subtle facelift. Nissan may be backing away from the Aria in the United States, but elsewhere, they're actually updating it with a facelifted version."
A facelift is when a car gets a small update to its look, like new headlights or a different grille, but the main parts of the car stay the same. It helps keep the car looking fresh without a complete redesign.
A facelift refers to a minor update or refresh to a vehicle's design, typically involving changes to the exterior styling, such as new lights, bumpers, or grilles, without altering the underlying platform or major components.
daytime running lights
"At daytime running lights adopt a curved three-stripe pattern, and the badge looked to be backlit."
Daytime running lights are lights that turn on automatically when you start your car, making it easier for others to see you during the day. They're a safety feature that helps prevent accidents.
Daytime running lights (DRLs) are lights on a vehicle that automatically turn on when the engine is running, improving visibility during the day. They enhance safety by making the vehicle more noticeable to other drivers.
alloy wheel
"...and the car wears a new alloy wheel design, no rear or interior images published."
Alloy wheels are special types of wheels made from metal that are lighter and look nicer than regular steel wheels. They can help the car perform better and look more stylish.
Alloy wheels are made from a mixture of metals, typically aluminum and magnesium, which makes them lighter and stronger than traditional steel wheels. They can improve a vehicle's performance and aesthetics.
federal tax credit
"Now, Ford is ending a leasing program that extended the federal tax credit, $7,500 of value off its cars. Now, the tax credit ended at the end of last month..."
A federal tax credit helps you pay less in taxes. For cars, especially electric ones, it means you can save money when you buy the car because the government gives you a credit that lowers your tax bill.
A federal tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction in the income tax that a taxpayer owes to the federal government. In the context of electric vehicles, it often incentivizes consumers by reducing the overall cost of the vehicle.
Ford F150 Lightning
"against the White House, have backed down on this plan. Ford has trimmed its F-150 lightning prices after the tax credit ended and briefly explored"
The Ford F-150 Lightning is an electric pickup truck that looks like the regular Ford F-150 but runs on electricity instead of gas. It's important because it shows how trucks can be more environmentally friendly while still being powerful and useful. People talk about it to see how it compares to other electric trucks.
The Ford F-150 Lightning is an all-electric version of Ford's best-selling F-150 pickup truck. It represents a significant step in the automotive industry's shift towards electric vehicles, combining the traditional utility of a truck with modern electric technology. Discussions around the Lightning often focus on its impact on the market and how it competes with other electric trucks.
Ford Lightning
"2025 lightnings, still have up to $11,500 of discounts..."
The Ford Lightning is an electric truck based on the popular F-150. The 2025 model has discounts available, which can help save buyers money.
The Ford Lightning is an all-electric version of the Ford F-150, known for its performance and utility. The 2025 model continues to offer significant discounts, making it an attractive option for buyers.
over-the-air update
"Tesla released an over-the-air update that lets owners switch their in-car visualization..."
An over-the-air update is when a car gets new software or fixes automatically through the internet, similar to how your phone updates. This means you don’t have to go to a shop to get these updates.
An over-the-air update is a method of delivering software updates to a vehicle wirelessly, allowing manufacturers to improve functionality or fix issues without requiring a dealership visit.
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