EV Reality Check: Incentives, Charging, And Choice
About this episode
A lively discussion on the current state of electric vehicles, including the impact of federal incentives and the rising costs of EVs. The hosts delve into Toyota's ambitious plans for a new performance brand and its implications for the automotive market. They also cover recent recalls affecting major manufacturers like Jeep and Mazda, along with a fun segment guessing the sale prices of classic cars. The episode is packed with automotive news, history, and engaging banter among the hosts.
EVs can feel like a battlefield of headlines and hot takes, so we put the rhetoric aside and dig into what actually matters on the road: incentives, charging reality, range you can trust, and the freedom to choose what fits your life. We start with a clear-eyed look at Honda’s massive EV write-down and a supplier lawsuit tied to a delayed electric pickup, then unpack how policy nudges, mandates, and market signals collide to shape buyer behavior. No cheerleading, no doom—just what’s changing, what isn’t, and the trade-offs drivers face today.
From there, we go wheels-on-the-ground with a Texas road trip designed to push limits. Big Bend’s 235-mile gap between chargers, the relief of a 460-mile electric truck, and the surprising power of simple planning all come into play. We share practical tactics to stretch range, the underrated advantage of charging overnight at RV pedestals in state parks, and the candid truth about 30-minute fast charges that can derail a tight schedule. If you value convenience, this part matters. If you love long-haul spontaneity, it matters even more.
We also tackle the cultural fog around EVs. Political theater turned cars into symbols, but ownership remains personal. Data shows aversion plummets when people get hands-on time behind the wheel. For most daily drivers, home charging and lower running costs make a persuasive case. For frequent interstate travelers or time-crunched families, today’s charging curve can still be a deal-breaker. That’s why we keep returning to the same point: try it, measure the friction in your real routine, and decide for yourself. If an EV gives you more freedom, you’ll feel it. If it doesn’t, you’ll know fast.
If this conversation helped clarify your thinking, share it with a friend, subscribe for more straight-talk car coverage, and leave a quick review telling us your biggest EV deal-breaker or must-have. Your feedback steers future shows.
Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!
---- -----
Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time?
In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy!
Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.
----- -----
Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.
In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:
Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.
Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!
Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTime
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/
https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltime
https://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTime
For more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at
[email protected]
Buick Century
"... Y O D A stood on a stage before an amber colored century coupe concept. It laid out a new vision"
The Buick Century is a comfortable car that many people like for its smooth driving experience. It's been around for a long time and is often seen as a reliable choice.
The Buick Century is a mid-size car that has been produced in various forms since 1936. Known for its comfort and smooth ride, the Century has been a popular choice among families and older drivers.
Daihatsu
"...while Dhatsu will fill in the bottom end. Did they buy Dhatsu? Apparently they did at some point. I thought they were always part of something like that. Step of it. Yeah. Well, I guess maybe at the bottom of the line car, the Dhatsu. Have you ever driven one of those..."
Daihatsu is a car brand from Japan that makes small and affordable cars. They focus on creating vehicles that are easy to drive and maintain, especially in urban areas.
Daihatsu is a Japanese automotive manufacturer known for producing small cars and compact vehicles. They have a reputation for affordability and efficiency, often catering to markets that prioritize economical transportation.
GR brand
"...the fifth brand, a new high-performance GR brand, was left mostly to the imagination with Toyota promising more details before the year end."
The GR brand is a special line of cars from Toyota that are designed to be faster and more exciting to drive.
The GR brand, short for Gazoo Racing, is Toyota's performance division that focuses on creating high-performance vehicles, including sports cars and racing models.
GR GT
"...launch with a super car called the GR GT."
The GR GT is a new sports car that Toyota is planning to release, designed to be very fast and exciting to drive.
The GR GT is a high-performance supercar that Toyota is expected to launch under its Gazoo Racing brand, aimed at enthusiasts looking for advanced performance features.
Lexus LFA
"the spiritual successor to the Lexus LFA. You ever seen an LFA in person?"
The Lexus LFA is a luxury sports car made by the Lexus brand. It's famous for its powerful engine and unique design, and only a few were made, which makes it very special.
The Lexus LFA is a high-performance sports car produced by Lexus, known for its exceptional engineering and design. It features a 4.8-liter V10 engine and was produced in limited numbers, making it a highly sought-after collector's item.
GR subbrand
"Until now, Toyota has used GR as a subbrand similar to TRD Pro to denote performance models within the Toyota lineup..."
The GR subbrand is a special line of cars from Toyota that are designed to be faster and more fun to drive, like their racing cars.
The GR subbrand, which stands for Gazoo Racing, is Toyota's designation for its performance-oriented models, similar to how TRD (Toyota Racing Development) is used for off-road and performance enhancements.
Toyota Corolla
"...models within the Toyota lineup, including the GR Corolla hot hatch. Most recently, the new GR Sport"
Toyota GR Corolla
"...including the GR Corolla hot hatch."
The GR Corolla is a sportier version of the regular Corolla that is made for people who want a fun and fast car.
The GR Corolla is a high-performance version of the standard Toyota Corolla, featuring enhancements in power, handling, and design to provide a sportier driving experience.
GR Sport RAV4
"...most recently, the new GR Sport RAV4 set to arrive early next year."
The GR Sport RAV4 is a fancier version of the RAV4 that looks sportier and is made to be more fun to drive.
The GR Sport RAV4 is a performance-oriented variant of the Toyota RAV4, designed to offer a sportier look and feel compared to the standard model, while still maintaining the practicality of an SUV.
Gazu Racing
"...in-house motorsports arm, Gazu Racing, where Toyota himself drives under the pseudonym Morizo. The company has dropped hints about..."
Gazu Racing is a part of Toyota that works on racing and performance cars. They help make Toyota's cars more exciting and sporty.
Gazu Racing is Toyota's in-house motorsports division, focusing on performance and racing activities. It plays a significant role in developing Toyota's performance-oriented vehicles and enhancing their motorsport presence.
supercar
"...development of a trackbound supercar. One which if sounds from testing and the presence of exhaust ports are to be believed will be powered by some type of V8..."
A supercar is a very fast and expensive sports car that is designed for high performance. They are often made in small quantities and have special features that make them stand out.
A supercar is a high-performance sports car that offers exceptional speed, handling, and technology, often with a price tag to match. These vehicles are typically produced in limited numbers and are known for their advanced engineering and design.
V8
"...will be powered by some type of V8. That isn't far-fetched..."
A V8 is a type of engine that has eight cylinders arranged in a V shape. This design helps the car produce more power and run smoothly, which is why it's often used in fast cars.
A V8 engine is an eight-cylinder engine configuration where the cylinders are arranged in a 'V' shape. This design allows for more power and smoother operation compared to smaller engines, making it popular in performance and luxury vehicles.
Buick Skylark
">> But this is a brand >> like Skylark Century. >> Yeah. So anyway, big news I think is"
The Buick Skylark is a stylish car that many people enjoy for its comfort and smooth driving. It's been around for many years and is considered a nice option for families.
The Buick Skylark is a mid-size car that was produced from 1953 to 1998, known for its stylish design and comfortable ride. It has been a popular choice for those seeking a blend of performance and luxury.
four-cylinder engine
"...behind. four-cylinder engine used in the Jeep Wrangler and the Jeep Grand Cherokee uh 4xe hybrids is at the center of a recall covering nearly 113,000"
A four-cylinder engine is a common type of car engine that has four cylinders. It's often used because it's fuel-efficient and provides a good amount of power for smaller vehicles.
A four-cylinder engine is a type of internal combustion engine that has four cylinders arranged in a line or in a V configuration. This engine type is known for its balance of efficiency and power, making it popular in various vehicles, including compact cars and SUVs.
Jeep Grand
"...and the Jeep Grand Cherokee uh 4xe hybrids is at the center of a recall covering nearly 113,000"
The Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe is a version of the Grand Cherokee that uses both gas and electric power. This helps it save fuel and be better for the environment while still being able to go off-road.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe is a plug-in hybrid version of the popular Grand Cherokee SUV, combining a gasoline engine with an electric motor for improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. It offers off-road capabilities along with the benefits of hybrid technology.
Jeep Wrangler
"behind. four-cylinder engine used in the Jeep Wrangler and the Jeep Grand Cherokee uh 4xe hybrids is at ..."
Jeep Cherokee
"Jeep Wrangler and the Jeep Grand Cherokee uh 4xe hybrids is at the center of a recall cover..."
The Jeep Cherokee is a small SUV that can handle rough roads and outdoor adventures. It's popular because it's tough and has a lot of space for passengers and gear.
The Jeep Cherokee is a compact SUV that has been a staple in the Jeep lineup since 1974. It is known for its off-road capability and versatility, making it a popular choice for adventure seekers.
Stellantis
"vehicles per Stalantis and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration bulletin. The risk is a loss of power..."
Stellantis is a big car company that makes many different brands of cars like Jeep and Dodge. It was created when two car companies joined together.
Stellantis is a multinational automotive manufacturing corporation formed from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group. It encompasses several well-known automotive brands including Jeep, Dodge, and Peugeot.
sand contamination
"...The culprit is sand contamination. Oh boy. during the block casting process which left debris in the engines."
Sand contamination means that sand got into the engine parts, which can cause big problems like the engine not working right or even catching fire. This can happen if the factory doesn't keep things clean while making the engine.
Sand contamination refers to the presence of sand or similar debris in engine components, which can lead to serious mechanical issues, including engine failure or fire. This can occur during manufacturing processes if proper cleanliness standards are not maintained.
Mazda Cx50
"Yeah. Uh, other recalls, Mazda CX-50 and CX-50 hybrid for 2025 front suspension bolts not tightly."
The Mazda CX-50 is a small SUV made by Mazda. The 2025 version likely has new features and improvements over earlier models.
The Mazda CX-50 is a compact SUV introduced by Mazda, known for its stylish design and practicality. The 2025 model may feature updates in technology and performance compared to previous years.
Kia Tellide
"Kia Sorento and Kia Tellide incorrect spare tire 25 and 26. How do you do that?"
The Kia Telluride is another SUV from Kia that is larger than the Sorento. It has a lot of room inside and comes with many nice features, making it a great choice for families.
The Kia Telluride is a midsize SUV known for its spacious interior, upscale features, and strong performance. It has received numerous awards for its design and value, making it a standout in its class.
Kia Sorento
"Kia Sorento and Kia Tellide incorrect spare tire 25 and 26. How do you do that?"
The Kia Sorento is a family-friendly SUV that has a lot of space and features. It's a good option if you need a vehicle that can carry passengers and cargo comfortably.
The Kia Sorento is a midsize SUV that offers a blend of practicality and comfort, making it a popular choice among families. It features various engine options and modern technology, catering to a wide range of buyers.
Honda Civics
">> Oh, that's what my is. Yeah. >> Yeah. Civics on the Civics, right? >> No, he's"
The Honda Civic is a small car that many people like because it's dependable and doesn't use a lot of gas. It's been around for a long time and is popular for everyday driving.
The Honda Civic is a compact car that has been a staple in the automotive market since its introduction in 1972. Known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality, the Civic has garnered a loyal following and is often discussed for its role in popularizing small cars in the U.S.
Bmw X5
"explode on the BMW X5 2000 to 20. Another Martha >> and the CNG manual ..."
The BMW X5 is a fancy SUV that offers a lot of space and a smooth ride. It's popular because it combines luxury features with the ability to drive off-road if needed.
The BMW X5 is a luxury midsize SUV that debuted in 1999 and has since become a key player in the premium SUV market. It is known for its performance, comfort, and advanced technology, making it a popular choice among those seeking both luxury and practicality.
Cadillac El
"...at car sold for. So, here we go. Ready? 1976 Jeff Cadillac El Dorado is huge for"
The Cadillac El Dorado is a fancy car that was made for people who want a luxurious ride. It's known for being stylish and comfortable.
The Cadillac El Dorado is a luxury coupe that was produced from 1953 to 2002, known for its opulence and distinctive styling. It has become a symbol of American luxury and is often celebrated for its powerful performance and comfort.
Cutlass
"...when my Cutlass got hit, I took it into the dealer, my dealer that I was working at..."
The Cutlass is a car made by Oldsmobile, a brand that used to be part of General Motors. It was known for being a comfortable and stylish car during its production years.
The Oldsmobile Cutlass is a mid-size car that was produced by General Motors under the Oldsmobile brand. It was popular in the United States from the 1960s through the 1990s, known for its comfortable ride and variety of body styles.
Chevrolet Impala
"...ormation on this one. This is a 1961 >> Chevrolet Impala convertible, white with a red vinyl interior."
The Chevrolet Impala is a big car that many families like because it has a lot of room inside and drives comfortably. It's been around for many years and is considered a classic.
The Chevrolet Impala is a full-size car that has been a part of American automotive history since 1958. Known for its spacious interior and smooth ride, the Impala has been a popular choice for families and is often celebrated for its classic design.
horsepower
"but she didn't have a convertible or all the horsepower."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful a car's engine is. More horsepower usually means the car can go faster and perform better.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement that indicates the power output of an engine. It is a crucial factor in determining a car's performance, including its acceleration and top speed.
Ferrari 348
"I had been checking off the list, the 348 and the trip. There's no there's no bubble top convertible. Well, I know, but I mean they made them."
The Ferrari 348 is a sports car made by Ferrari that was built in the late 1980s and early 1990s. It has a powerful engine and is known for its sleek design.
The Ferrari 348 is a mid-engine sports car produced by Ferrari from 1989 to 1995. It is known for its distinctive design and performance, featuring a V8 engine and a lightweight chassis.
Chevrolet 348 SS
"This combination that's with the convertible and the 348 tri power SS and an SS with a four-speed."
The Chevrolet 348 is a powerful engine used in some classic cars, and 'SS' means it's a special performance version. It's a piece of automotive history from the muscle car era.
The Chevrolet 348 is a V8 engine that was produced in the late 1950s and early 1960s, known for its performance in muscle cars. The 'SS' designation indicates a Super Sport variant, which typically features enhanced performance and styling.
four-speed
"and an SS with a four-speed."
A four-speed means the car has a transmission with four different gears. This helps the car go faster and use fuel more efficiently at different speeds.
A four-speed transmission refers to a manual or automatic gearbox that has four distinct gear ratios. This allows for better acceleration and efficiency at different speeds, which is particularly beneficial in performance vehicles.
Jeep J
"floor like I was. >> So, the 84 Jeep J series sold for $18,900."
The Jeep J Series is a big truck made for tough jobs and off-road driving. It's known for being strong and reliable.
The Jeep J Series refers to a line of full-size pickup trucks produced by Jeep from the 1960s to the early 1980s. These trucks are known for their ruggedness and off-road capabilities, appealing to those who need a tough vehicle for work or recreation.
Plymouth P15
"...his is Yeah, this is a nice car. 1946 >> Plymouth P15. We would call it a woody >> uh because uh the si..."
The Plymouth P15 is an old car from the late 1940s that was one of the first made after the war. It's known for its vintage style and is a piece of history.
The Plymouth P15, produced from 1946 to 1949, is notable for being one of the first cars manufactured after World War II. It is recognized for its classic design and represents a significant era in American automotive history.
Oldsmobile F85
"...here's George's car up next. The 63 Oldsmobile F85. Remember the F85? I had one of those."
The Oldsmobile F85 is a small car made by the Oldsmobile brand, popular in the 1960s. It was known for being light and having a powerful engine for its size.
The Oldsmobile F85 was a compact car produced by Oldsmobile from 1961 to 1972. It was known for its lightweight design and was one of the first cars to feature a V8 engine in a compact size.
Malibu
"...this would have been comparable to the Malibu."
The Chevrolet Malibu is a comfortable car made by Chevrolet, first introduced in the 1960s. It's known for being practical and good for everyday use.
The Chevrolet Malibu is a mid-size car that has been produced by Chevrolet since 1964. It has gone through several generations and is known for its comfort and practicality.
215 V8
"I think it had a six-cylinder in it, but ... 215 V8 all aluminum block and heads."
The 215 V8 is a type of engine made by General Motors that is light and made of aluminum. It was popular in cars during the 1960s for being powerful and efficient.
The 215 V8 is a lightweight, all-aluminum V8 engine produced by General Motors, known for its performance and efficiency in the early 1960s.
Ford Model
"... had no clue how much these cars were worth. 1922 Ford Model T. Obviously, black."
The Ford Model T is one of the first cars that many people could actually afford. It changed how cars were made and helped more people own a vehicle.
The Ford Model T, produced from 1908 to 1927, is often credited with revolutionizing the automotive industry by making cars affordable for the average person. Its mass production techniques set the standard for future manufacturing processes.
Oldsmobile 88
"least, the 1978 Oldsmobile 88. Now, we used to call this the Delta 88."
The Oldsmobile 88 is a large car made by the Oldsmobile brand. The 1978 version is known for being comfortable and having a lot of space inside.
The Oldsmobile 88 was a full-size car produced by Oldsmobile from 1949 until 1999. The 1978 model is part of the Delta 88 series, known for its spacious interior and smooth ride.
Alfa 1900S
"up to 1908 and it's fascinating in the early 1900s the way these companies buy and sell that are mon..."
The Alfa Romeo 1900 is an old car from the 1950s known for its unique style and sporty feel. It was one of the first cars made in a way that made it lighter and faster.
The Alfa Romeo 1900, produced from 1950 to 1959, is significant for being one of the first mass-produced cars with a unitary body structure. It is celebrated for its design and performance, contributing to Alfa Romeo's reputation for sporty vehicles.
Studebaker Presidents
"Studebaker two Studebaker presidents. That's the car model. They averaged 85 miles an"
The Studebaker President is an old car that was made in the early 1900s and is known for being fancy and well-made. It was popular for its comfort and style.
The Studebaker President was a full-size car produced by Studebaker from 1926 to 1942, known for its innovative features and luxury. It represents a significant chapter in American automotive history, showcasing the brand's commitment to quality and style.
Ford Mustang
"...d together that came up with these ideas like the Mustang and and they were all just considered this"
The Ford Mustang is a classic American sports car known for its speed and style. It's been around for a long time and is loved by many car enthusiasts.
The Ford Mustang is an iconic American muscle car that was first introduced in 1964. It represents a significant cultural symbol of freedom and performance, and has evolved over the decades while maintaining its sporty appeal.
General Motors Ev1
"first automaker to really get it into the EV1. >> But that won an award. Did you know"
The General Motors EV1 was one of the first electric cars made in the 1990s. It was important because it showed that cars could run on electricity instead of gas.
The General Motors EV1 was an electric car produced in the late 1990s and is notable for being one of the first modern electric vehicles offered to the public. Its development marked a significant moment in the push for alternative fuel vehicles, despite its eventual discontinuation.
Ford Maverick
"...cle classes to the lineup. The SUV series and the Maverick series. The Maverick class of cars pays homage to"
The Ford Maverick is a small truck that is great for people who need to carry things but want something easy to handle. It's designed to be practical and fuel-efficient.
The Ford Maverick is a compact pickup truck that was reintroduced in 2021, aiming to blend utility with efficiency. It pays homage to the original Maverick from the 1970s, appealing to those looking for a versatile vehicle that is easy to drive and park.
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.