Electric Analog Motorcycles with Brad Brownell of Land Moto
About this episode
Brad Brownell from Land Moto joins the Auto Off Topic crew to discuss his new role at an electric motorcycle startup and his extensive cross-country road trip promoting their products. The conversation touches on the unique features of Land Moto's electric motorcycles, including their lightweight design and removable batteries for future-proofing. The episode also dives into personal project car updates, including Brad's restoration of a 996 Turbo Porsche and the challenges of maintaining classic cars. The hosts share insights on road rage, NASCAR, and the evolving landscape of electric vehicles.
We're back with returning guest Brad Brownell, now with Land Moto an e-Motorcycle maker out of Cleveland OH. Brad gives us the run down on the Motorcycles and some updates on his super cool custom color 996 Turbo.
AOT Brad has a minor project car update and Andrew is still waiting on some Volvo parts, so he decided get another R/C car.
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Keep your cars analog and Aim for the Roses!
Ford Bronco
"Stay on the bar. Don't go off the bar with your Bronco. 1980 Volvo horns, what's right?"
The Ford Bronco is a tough SUV that people love for driving off the beaten path. It has a long history and is known for being able to handle rough terrain, making it a favorite for outdoor adventures.
The Ford Bronco is a classic American SUV known for its ruggedness and off-road capabilities. Originally introduced in the 1960s, it has become an iconic vehicle, especially among off-road enthusiasts. The recent revival of the Bronco has reignited interest in its adventurous spirit and versatility.
Toyota Camry
"...a Nigerian oil print? I also wish you drove a tan Camry. Anyways, that's a very horrible podcast content."
The Toyota Camry is a popular car that many people choose because it's reliable and easy to drive. It's a comfortable sedan that works well for everyday use, making it a good option for families or anyone needing a dependable vehicle.
The Toyota Camry is a midsize sedan that has been a best-seller in the United States for decades, known for its reliability, comfort, and fuel efficiency. It appeals to a wide range of drivers due to its practical design and reputation for longevity. The Camry is often discussed for its value as a dependable daily driver.
Nissan Serena
"Jared was our first guest. Serena. Brad, you were probably our second or third gues..."
The Nissan Serena is a roomy van that families like because it has a lot of space and is comfortable for trips. It's designed to be practical and can fit many passengers and their stuff.
The Nissan Serena is a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) popular in markets like Japan and Southeast Asia, known for its spacious interior and family-friendly features. It offers versatility with seating configurations and is designed for comfort during long journeys. The Serena is often discussed for its practicality as a family vehicle.
Tesla Semi
"...ow, go in my own pace. But didn't, you know, even semi trucks and stuff now are so impatient. And it's, ..."
The Tesla Semi is a big electric truck that can carry loads without using gas. It's important because it helps reduce pollution and is cheaper to run than regular trucks.
The Tesla Semi is an all-electric truck designed to revolutionize the freight industry with its impressive range and performance. It aims to reduce the carbon footprint of transportation while offering lower operating costs compared to traditional diesel trucks. The Semi is significant as it represents Tesla's expansion into commercial vehicles and the push for sustainable transport solutions.
Overland Expo
"We started with Overland Expo and we went to Austin City Limits and the US Grand Prix in Austin."
Overland Expo is a big event where people who love outdoor adventures come together. They can see cool vehicles and gear that help them travel off the beaten path, and there are also classes and talks about adventure travel.
Overland Expo is an event focused on adventure travel and outdoor gear, showcasing vehicles, equipment, and services for off-road and overland enthusiasts. It features workshops, seminars, and exhibits from various brands in the outdoor and automotive industries.
US Grand Prix
"...Austin City Limits and the US Grand Prix in Austin. Then we came here and we're going to LA next."
The US Grand Prix is a big car race that happens in the United States, where super-fast cars compete against each other. It's part of a series called Formula 1, which is known for its exciting races and advanced car technology.
The US Grand Prix is a Formula 1 race held in the United States, featuring some of the fastest and most technologically advanced cars in the world. It attracts motorsport fans and showcases the pinnacle of automotive engineering and racing.
Sprinter
"...it's a long wheelbase sprinter extended box with..."
The Sprinter is a big van made by Mercedes-Benz. It's often used for deliveries or converted into camper vans because it has a lot of space inside.
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is a versatile van known for its spacious interior and various configurations, making it popular for commercial use and as a camper van. It is available in different lengths and heights to suit various needs.
wheelbase
"...the only issue is that it's a long wheelbase sprinter extended box with..."
Wheelbase is how far apart the front and back wheels are on a vehicle. A longer distance can make the vehicle more stable and comfortable to drive.
Wheelbase refers to the distance between the front and rear axles of a vehicle. A longer wheelbase can provide better stability and a smoother ride, especially in larger vehicles like vans and trucks.
Mercedes EQS
"...what's the Mercedes EQS? EQS, yeah. I have written three appraisals for EQS's and I've totaled every single one of them."
The Mercedes EQS is a high-end electric car from Mercedes-Benz. It's designed for luxury and has many modern features, making it a top choice for those looking for an electric vehicle.
The Mercedes EQS is a luxury electric sedan that represents the brand's flagship electric vehicle. It features advanced technology and a high level of comfort, aimed at competing in the premium electric vehicle market.
battery pack
"...the battery pack is the chassis. And Mercedes has a tolerance for scratches and scrapes that once you've surpassed that..."
The battery pack is what stores electricity in electric cars. It's important because it powers the car and can also be part of the car's structure.
In electric vehicles, the battery pack is a critical component that stores energy to power the vehicle. It often serves as a structural element of the car, particularly in designs like the Mercedes EQS.
resale value
"But because automotive EVs have the world's worst resale right now. Yes. And that with the Mercedes resale, which has never been good, there were,..."
Resale value is how much money you can get back when you sell a car after owning it for a while. Some cars lose value quickly, while others hold their value better.
Resale value refers to the amount of money a vehicle can be sold for after its initial purchase. It is an important consideration for buyers, as some vehicles depreciate faster than others, impacting their overall investment.
electric vehicles (EVs)
"But because automotive EVs have the world's worst resale right now. Yes."
Electric vehicles, or EVs, are cars that run on electricity instead of gas. They are better for the environment because they produce fewer harmful emissions.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are cars that are powered entirely or partially by electricity instead of traditional gasoline or diesel. They are often seen as more environmentally friendly due to lower emissions.
interchangeability
"There's no interchangeability, even if the cells are the same inside. Right."
Interchangeability means being able to use one part in place of another without needing to change anything. For batteries, it would mean you could use a battery from one car in another car easily, which isn't possible right now.
Interchangeability refers to the ability to use one component in place of another without modification. In the context of batteries, it means that batteries from different manufacturers could be swapped easily, which is currently not the case for most electric vehicles.
rebuildable batteries
"is to have more universal battery technology, I think, because. Or at least rebuildable batteries."
Rebuildable batteries are batteries that you can take apart and fix instead of throwing them away when they stop working. This helps the environment by reducing waste.
Rebuildable batteries are battery systems designed to be disassembled and repaired or upgraded, rather than being discarded when they fail. This approach can enhance sustainability and reduce waste in the electric vehicle industry.
Buick Regal
"Well, man, when this 85 regal dies or we're not going to be able to fix this computer and the car is never going to run again."
The Buick Regal is a car made by the Buick company, and the 1985 version is known for its square shape and was common in the 1980s. It was a popular choice for many families at that time.
The Buick Regal is a mid-size car that has been produced by Buick since 1973. The 1985 model is part of the third generation, known for its boxy design and was popular in the 1980s.
regenerative braking
"So I don't really think about regenerative braking in concert with ABS, but obviously it has to our car for the same situation because the same situation, while less dangerous, could certainly happen in the car."
Regenerative braking helps electric cars save energy when they slow down. Instead of just using brakes that create heat, it captures some of that energy and puts it back into the battery.
Regenerative braking is a technology that allows electric and hybrid vehicles to recover energy during braking. Instead of wasting energy as heat, it converts kinetic energy back into stored energy in the battery, improving efficiency.
ABS
"...but obviously it has to our car for the same situation because the same situation, while less dangerous, could certainly happen in the car. It wasn't ABS."
ABS is a safety feature in cars that helps prevent the wheels from stopping completely when you brake hard. This way, you can still steer while slowing down.
ABS stands for Anti-lock Braking System. It prevents the wheels from locking up during braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control and avoid skidding.
Ford Mavericks
"My work car is a hybrid. Namely, Maverick's a hybrid."
The Ford Maverick is a small pickup truck that can save you money on gas because it has a hybrid engine. It's great for city driving and has a lot of useful features.
The Ford Maverick is a compact pickup truck that offers a hybrid powertrain option, making it a fuel-efficient choice for drivers. It has gained popularity for its versatility and practicality in urban settings.
project car
"So that's your project car update status for this episode. What is new on that car?"
A project car is a car that someone buys to fix up or make better. It's usually not in perfect condition and needs some work to make it nice or to change how it looks or drives.
A project car is a vehicle that an enthusiast buys with the intention of restoring, modifying, or improving it over time. These cars often require work and investment to bring them to the owner's desired specifications or condition.
turbo
"...because we're talking about a turbo Porsche. Yeah."
A turbo is a part that helps the engine get more air, which makes it more powerful. It allows the car to go faster without needing a bigger engine.
A turbocharger is a device that forces more air into the engine's combustion chamber, allowing it to burn more fuel and produce more power. This results in increased horsepower and torque without significantly increasing engine size.
Porsche 911
"The Polars hit me. So, yeah, it's a 2001 911 Turbo. Typically those are all wheel drive, but t..."
The Porsche 911 is a famous sports car that looks great and drives really fast. It's known for being fun to drive and has a special version called the Turbo that is even more powerful.
The Porsche 911 is a legendary sports car known for its distinctive design and exceptional performance. Since its introduction in the early 1960s, it has become a symbol of automotive excellence, combining luxury with thrilling driving dynamics. The 911 Turbo variant, in particular, is celebrated for its powerful engine and all-wheel-drive capabilities.
rear wheel drive
"has been rear wheel drive converted. The front diff has been removed for lightweight"
In rear wheel drive cars, the back wheels get the power from the engine, which can help with handling and performance. It's different from front wheel drive, where the front wheels do all the work.
Rear wheel drive (RWD) is a vehicle configuration where the engine's power is sent to the rear wheels. This setup often provides better handling dynamics, especially in performance cars, as it allows for more balanced weight distribution during acceleration.
front diff
"The front diff has been removed for lightweight and steering purposes."
The front differential helps the front wheels turn at different speeds when going around corners. Taking it out can make the car lighter and easier to steer, especially for racing.
The front differential (front diff) is a component that allows the front wheels of a vehicle to rotate at different speeds, which is essential for cornering. Removing it can reduce weight and improve steering response, especially in performance-oriented builds.
GT3 engine
"...and put a GT3 engine in it and they used like a modern blue color..."
The GT3 engine is a powerful engine used in the Porsche 911 GT3 model, designed for high performance and racing. It has special features that make it faster and more responsive than standard engines.
The GT3 engine refers to the high-performance flat-six engine used in the Porsche 911 GT3, known for its racing pedigree and enhanced power output. It's designed for track performance and features technologies like a higher compression ratio and improved airflow.
Ford GT
"...great color in person. Yes. Exactly. So we chose, I talked to the painter and we chose Ocean Jade Metallic as the color and it is like a teal or 94 Ford road GT."
The Ford GT is a fast sports car made by Ford. It's known for its cool looks and powerful performance, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
The Ford GT is a high-performance sports car known for its sleek design and powerful engine. It has a rich racing heritage and is often associated with speed and luxury.
color matched
"But then they see it in person and go, oh yeah, I get it. That's awesome. And we color matched the wheels."
Color matching means making sure different parts of the car are painted the same color so they look good together.
Color matching refers to the process of painting or finishing parts of a vehicle to match the original color, enhancing the overall aesthetic and cohesion of the car's appearance.
carbon fiber panel
"So we took out the roof and replaced it with a carbon fiber panel."
A carbon fiber panel is a strong and light piece used in cars to make them lighter and faster, often replacing heavier metal parts.
A carbon fiber panel is a lightweight, strong material used in automotive construction, often replacing heavier materials to reduce weight and improve performance.
sport bucket seat
"...because the driver seat is a sport bucket from a later nine on one."
A sport bucket seat is a type of car seat that hugs you tightly, helping you stay in place when you're driving fast or taking sharp turns.
A sport bucket seat is designed to provide better support and comfort during spirited driving. These seats often have higher side bolsters to keep the driver securely in place during cornering.
coilovers
"I need to do coilovers this winter. Add that to another project of mine that I need to do this winter."
Coilovers are special parts of a car's suspension that help control how the car rides and handles. They can be adjusted to make the car sit higher or lower, which can improve performance.
Coilovers are a type of suspension system that combines a coil spring and shock absorber into a single unit, allowing for adjustable ride height and improved handling. They are popular among car enthusiasts for performance upgrades.
Porsche Cayenne
"...in my 2014 Cayenne diesel, which technically is my wife, Amanda's daily driver, but now it's going to be the rally car."
The Porsche Cayenne Diesel is a big, luxury SUV that runs on diesel fuel, which can be more efficient than regular gasoline. It's designed to be both fun to drive and useful for everyday tasks.
The Porsche Cayenne Diesel is a luxury SUV known for its performance and diesel engine efficiency. It's part of Porsche's lineup that combines sporty driving dynamics with practicality.
Porsche 912E
"And then I'm doing some like fuel injection upgrades for the 912E."
The Porsche 912E is a classic car that was made in the 1970s. It's known for being fun to drive and has a special engine that helps it run efficiently.
The Porsche 912E is a variant of the Porsche 912, produced in 1976. It features a fuel-injected engine and is known for its balance of performance and economy.
Ducati
"And I just bought a Ducati monster like a year ago that needs a belt service."
Ducati is a brand that makes motorcycles, and the Monster is one of their popular models. It's known for being fast and having a cool design.
Ducati is an Italian motorcycle manufacturer known for its high-performance bikes. The Ducati Monster is a popular naked bike that combines style and power.
alternator
"I've now been waiting almost two weeks for alternators. The one with the pulley that I ordered is somewhere in UPS, somewhere."
An alternator is a part of the car that makes electricity to keep the battery charged and power the car's electrical systems while the engine is running.
An alternator is a crucial component in a vehicle's electrical system that generates electricity to power the car's electrical systems and charge the battery while the engine is running.
voltage regulator
"...as the wires going to the regulator, voltage regulator."
A voltage regulator keeps the electricity in your car at the right level. It makes sure that the lights and other parts get the right amount of power so they work properly.
A voltage regulator is an electronic device that maintains a constant voltage level to electrical components in a vehicle. It ensures that the electrical system operates efficiently and prevents damage from voltage fluctuations.
fender liner
"and of course there's no fender liner. I don't think there's supposed to be one."
A fender liner is a part inside the wheel area of a car that protects it from dirt and water. It helps keep the car safe from rust and other damage.
A fender liner is a protective cover that fits inside the wheel arch of a vehicle. It helps to shield the car's body and components from dirt, debris, and moisture, which can lead to rust and damage over time.
power antenna
"Somebody retrofitted a power antenna to the car and had switches inside the car to turn it on."
A power antenna is a type of radio antenna that moves up and down automatically when you turn the radio on or off. It helps the radio pick up signals better.
A power antenna is an antenna that automatically extends and retracts when the radio is turned on or off. It provides better reception compared to fixed antennas and is often found in modern vehicles.
aftermarket fuse panel
"...I have to mount an aftermarket fuse panel with relays. Mount that under the hood. The car is not original anyways..."
An aftermarket fuse panel is a part that helps manage the car's electrical system. It replaces the original one and can offer better organization and features.
An aftermarket fuse panel is a replacement or upgrade for the factory fuse panel in a vehicle. It allows for better organization and management of electrical circuits, often providing additional features or improved reliability.
Toyota Corolla
"So if I didn't also have the Corolla Tornavart in the garage and all of"
The Toyota Corolla is a small car that many people buy because it's reliable and doesn't cost much to keep running. It's a great choice for getting around town and is known for being easy to drive.
The Toyota Corolla is one of the best-selling cars in history, known for its reliability, affordability, and fuel efficiency. It has a reputation for being a practical choice for drivers looking for a dependable vehicle for daily commuting. The Corolla's consistent performance and low maintenance costs make it a favorite among budget-conscious buyers.
Porsche 944
"...e garage and all of the timing belt stuff for the 944 and just this and this and this and this and this"
The Porsche 944 is a sporty car from the 1980s that many people enjoy driving because it handles really well. It's more affordable than some other Porsches, making it a good option for those who want a fun car without breaking the bank.
The Porsche 944 is a sports car produced in the 1980s and early 1990s, known for its balanced handling and affordability compared to other Porsche models. It features a front-engine layout and is often praised for its driving dynamics and practicality as a sports car. The 944 has a dedicated following and is considered a classic among enthusiasts.
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