{"version":"1.0.0","episode":{"title":"Failing EV Startups, Redesigned Kia Seltos, Chicago Auto Show News","url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/failing-ev-startups-redesigned-kia-seltos-chicago-auto-show-news","audioUrl":"https://www.buzzsprout.com/675236/episodes/18359844-failing-ev-startups-redesigned-kia-seltos-chicago-auto-show-news.mp3","description":"Jill and Tom open this week’s show acknowledging that Vietnamese EV startup VinFast is likely to cease U.S. operations in the very near future. The hosts also note that another EV startup, Bollinger Motors, has called it quits. Tom discusses his time in the Jeep Wrangler, this example powered by the available 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, instead of the popular 3.6-liter V6. Tom prefers the smaller engine. Listen in to hear why. The hosts also discuss an apparent social-media wave of dislike for the Wagoneer S, Jeep's first U.S.-market all-electric model. Tom’s review of the Wagoneer S posts shortly. Still in the first segment, Jill discusses the redesigned Kia Seltos small crossover, due out soon as a 2027 model. In the second segment, Jill and Tom welcome Chicago Auto Show Communications Director Jim OBrill to the show. Jim talks about the changing nature of the major auto shows, and what’s on tap for this year’s Chicago show. In the last segment, Jill and Jim are subjected to Tom’s “$25,000?” quiz--which includes a question about Wendy's in Japan. Jim also discusses his show, Drive Chicago, which airs every Saturday morning in Chicago, and can be heard later as a podcast. The Hook and Bridge PodcastA place for Music, Comedy, and FriendshipListen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify"},"annotations":[{"startTime":55.0,"endTime":60.0,"type":"brand","title":"Stellantis","url":"/glossary/stellantis","quote":"I wrote about the RAM 1500, and with the Hemi again...","canonicalId":"brand:stellantis","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.88,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"Stellantis is a multinational automotive manufacturer formed from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group. It owns brands like Ram, Jeep, Dodge, Peugeot, Citroën, and more.","simplifiedExplanation":"Stellantis is a big company that makes many car brands, including Ram and Dodge. It’s one of the largest car makers in the world."}},{"startTime":55.0,"endTime":60.0,"type":"car","title":"RAM 1500","url":"/cars/ram/1500","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b7/2021-22_RAM_1500_TRX.jpg","quote":"I told you about my very, very nice email from someone at MoPAR, someone at Stellantis, I wrote about the RAM 1500, and with the Hemi again...","canonicalId":"car:ram:1500","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"The RAM 1500 is a full‑size pickup truck produced by Stellantis (formerly FCA). It’s known for its large cargo bed, powerful V8 options, and strong towing capability.","simplifiedExplanation":"The RAM 1500 is a big pickup truck that can haul heavy loads and tow trailers. It’s popular for work and family use.","imageAttribution":"Carlito714 (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":55.0,"endTime":60.0,"type":"term","title":"Hemi","url":"/glossary/hemi","quote":"I wrote about the RAM 1500, and with the Hemi again...","canonicalId":"term:hemi","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"Hemi refers to a hemispherical combustion chamber design used in V8 engines, notably by Chrysler and its parent companies. The design allows for larger valves and better airflow, resulting in higher power output.","simplifiedExplanation":"Hemi is a type of engine that has a special shape inside the cylinders, which lets it make more power and run smoother."}},{"startTime":119.0,"endTime":124.0,"type":"term","title":"six pack","url":"/glossary/six-pack","quote":"[119.0s] There are folks out there who find the use of the term six pack, heretical.","canonicalId":"term:six-pack","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"The \"six pack\" refers to a carburetor setup that uses six individual jets or barrels, typically arranged in three pairs. It was a common configuration on older performance engines before fuel injection became standard.","simplifiedExplanation":"A \"six pack\" is a way of feeding fuel to an engine using six small tubes that help the car run better. Think of it like having six little pipes that bring gas to the engine."}},{"startTime":188.0,"endTime":196.0,"type":"brand","title":"Michelin","url":"/glossary/michelin","quote":"[188.0s] The thing you were bragging about. The thing that I was bragging about that I have tire samples in my freezer.","canonicalId":"brand:michelin","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.98,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"Michelin is a French multinational tire manufacturer known for producing high-quality tires for cars, trucks, and bicycles. They are one of the largest tire companies in the world.","simplifiedExplanation":"Michelin makes tires, which are the rubber parts that touch the road on a car. They’re famous for making good, long-lasting tires."}},{"startTime":188.0,"endTime":196.0,"type":"part","title":"tire","url":"/glossary/tires","quote":"[188.0s] The thing you were bragging about. The thing that I was bragging about that I have tire samples in my freezer.","canonicalId":"part:tires","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.95,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"A tire is a rubber ring that surrounds the wheel of a vehicle, providing traction and cushioning. Tires are essential for safe driving and come in various sizes and types.","simplifiedExplanation":"A tire is the rubber part on a car that touches the road. It helps you drive and stops the car from sliding."}},{"startTime":339.0,"endTime":348.0,"type":"brand","title":"VinFast","url":"/glossary/vinfast","quote":"But the thing that was looking back on that I thought was so loud was VinFast for for being sort of a Johnny completely company was all about battery leasing.","canonicalId":"brand:vinfast","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"VinFast is a Vietnamese automobile manufacturer founded by the Vingroup conglomerate. It produces electric vehicles and has been expanding into international markets, including the United States.","simplifiedExplanation":"VinFast is a car company from Vietnam that makes electric cars. They are trying to sell their vehicles in places like the U.S., but it’s still new there."}},{"startTime":339.0,"endTime":348.0,"type":"concept","title":"battery leasing","url":"/glossary/battery-leasing","quote":"But the thing that was looking back on that I thought was so loud was VinFast for for being sort of a Johnny completely company was all about battery leasing.","canonicalId":"concept:battery-leasing","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"Battery leasing is a business model where the vehicle owner pays for the car but leases the battery pack separately, allowing them to replace or upgrade the battery without buying a new vehicle.","simplifiedExplanation":"Battery leasing means you buy the car but pay a separate fee to use its battery. If the battery gets old, you can swap it out instead of buying a new car."}},{"startTime":428.0,"endTime":432.0,"type":"car","title":"Fisker Ocean","url":"/cars/fisker/ocean","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/8/83/Fisker_Ocean%2C_BAS_24%2C_Brussels_%28P1170330-RR%29.jpg","quote":"So my question would be or just picked up a used Fisker. Yeah, it was just say similar to the Fisker ocean.","canonicalId":"car:fisker:ocean","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"The Fisker Ocean is an all-electric SUV introduced in 2023, known for its solar roof and sustainable materials. It is part of Fisker's effort to create a more affordable electric vehicle.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Fisker Ocean is an electric SUV that was released in 2023. It has a solar roof and uses eco-friendly parts.","imageAttribution":"Matti Blume (CC BY-SA)"}},{"startTime":455.0,"endTime":460.0,"type":"company","title":"Bollinger","url":"/glossary/bollinger","quote":"And speaking of companies going belly up, Bollinger through in the towel.","canonicalId":"company:bollinger","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"Bollinger Motors was an American electric vehicle startup founded in 2015, known for its rugged all-electric trucks like the B1 and B2. The company ceased operations in 2023.","simplifiedExplanation":"Bollinger was a company that made electric trucks. It stopped making cars in 2023."}},{"startTime":498.0,"endTime":505.0,"type":"car","title":"Jeep Wrangler Sahara","url":"/cars/jeep/wrangler","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a7/JEEP_WRANGLER_%28JL%29_China.jpg","quote":"So I was in the Jeep Wrangler Sahara. Yes.","canonicalId":"car:jeep:wrangler","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"The Jeep Wrangler Sahara is a high‑trim version of the popular off‑road SUV, featuring upgraded interior and exterior options for better comfort and style.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Wrangler Sahara is a fancy version of the Jeep Wrangler, with extra features and nicer looks for people who like off‑road adventures.","imageAttribution":"Dinkun Chen (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":511.0,"endTime":518.0,"type":"car","title":"Jeep Gladiator","url":"/cars/jeep/gladiator","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/0b/Gobi_Jeep_gladiator_%28JT%29_on_W_Ann_Rd.jpg","quote":"I was juice orange kind of like my gladiator, which was also very, very happy orange color.","canonicalId":"car:jeep:gladiator","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"The Jeep Gladiator is a pickup truck built on the Wrangler platform, sharing many components and off‑road capabilities.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Gladiator is a Jeep truck that looks like a Wrangler but has a bed for hauling stuff.","imageAttribution":"Noah Wulf (CC BY-SA 3.0)"}},{"startTime":549.0,"endTime":556.0,"type":"part","title":"2.0-liter turbo","url":"/glossary/2-0-liter-turbo","quote":"But they also make available at no cost, a two liter turbo.","canonicalId":"part:2-0-liter-turbo","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.92,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"A 2.0‑liter turbocharged engine is a smaller displacement powerplant that uses a turbine to increase air intake, boosting torque and efficiency.","simplifiedExplanation":"A 2.0‑liter turbo is a small engine that uses a fan (turbo) to make it stronger and more efficient."}},{"startTime":626.0,"endTime":642.0,"type":"concept","title":"auto shows","url":"/glossary/auto-shows","quote":"After the break, we're going to talk to Jim O'Brill, the director of marketing for the Chicago Auto Show. Remind me that I have a question for Jim about the San Francisco Auto Show.","canonicalId":"concept:auto-shows","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"Automobile shows are large events where manufacturers display new models, concept cars, and technology to the public and press.","simplifiedExplanation":"Auto shows are like big car fairs where companies show off their newest cars and sometimes special editions to people who want to see them in person."}},{"startTime":738.0,"endTime":744.0,"type":"car","title":"Grand Cherokee","url":"/cars/jeep/grand-cherokee","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/27/2018_Jeep_Grand_Cherokee_%28WK2%29_SRT8_DSC_7222.jpg","quote":"Okay. It's cramped for me, even though it is externally. It's about the size of a grand Cherokee.","canonicalId":"car:jeep:grand-cherokee","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.95,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a mid‑size SUV known for its blend of off‑road capability and on‑road comfort. It has been produced in various generations since 1993, with recent models offering advanced safety and infotainment features.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Grand Cherokee is a popular SUV made by Jeep. It’s bigger than many cars and can handle rough roads, but it also has modern tech for everyday driving.","imageAttribution":"Alexander Migl (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":752.0,"endTime":756.0,"type":"term","title":"drive mode settings","url":"/glossary/drive-mode-settings","quote":"Did you toggle through any of the drive mode settings to see if I made a difference?","canonicalId":"term:drive-mode-settings","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"Drive mode settings are software options that adjust a vehicle’s suspension stiffness, steering feel, throttle response, and traction control to suit different driving conditions such as comfort, sport, or off‑road.","simplifiedExplanation":"Some cars let you pick how the car feels—soft for a relaxed ride or firm for sporty driving. These are called drive modes and they change how the car behaves."}},{"startTime":779.0,"endTime":782.0,"type":"car","title":"Mercedes-Benz E-Class 430","url":"/cars/mercedes-benz/e-class","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/54/Mercedes-Benz_Concept_CLA_Class%2C_IAA%2C_M%C3%BAnich%2C_Alemania%2C_2023-09-10%2C_DD_05.jpg","quote":"We got a consumer, uh, we got a Mercedes Benzass class. And it was a base house class. It was a 420 or 430. I think it was called a 430 at the time.","canonicalId":"car:mercedes-benz:e-class","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"The Mercedes-Benz E-Class 430 is a mid-size luxury sedan that was produced in the early 2000s, known for its comfortable ride and refined interior. It sits between the more entry-level E420 and the higher-performance E430 variants.","simplifiedExplanation":"This is a fancy German car that was popular around 2000. It’s a bit larger than a compact but smaller than a full-size luxury car, and it was known for being comfortable and well-built.","imageAttribution":"Diego Delso (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":787.0,"endTime":790.0,"type":"brand","title":"AMG","url":"/glossary/amg","quote":"Okay. But the base V8, no AMG wheels and tires. And it was a surprisingly inexpensive as class.","canonicalId":"brand:amg","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"AMG is the high-performance division of Mercedes‑Benz that produces upgraded engines, suspensions, and styling packages for certain models.","simplifiedExplanation":"AMG is a brand that makes sporty versions of Mercedes cars, with better engines and nicer looks."}},{"startTime":885.0,"endTime":890.0,"type":"term","title":"blind view monitor","url":"/glossary/blind-view-monitor","quote":"the blind view monitor that wants a digital key, you know, the ability to use their phone as a key.","canonicalId":"term:blind-view-monitor","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.95,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"A blind view monitor is a camera‑based system that displays the area behind and beside a vehicle on a screen, helping drivers see obstacles they cannot see with mirrors alone.","simplifiedExplanation":"It’s a camera that shows you what’s behind or beside your car on a screen, so you can see things you normally can’t spot with just the side mirrors."}},{"startTime":935.0,"endTime":940.0,"type":"term","title":"Android Auto","url":"/glossary/android-auto","quote":"[935.0s] But I'm 99.999% certain this will have wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.","canonicalId":"term:android-auto","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.95,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"Android Auto is Google’s counterpart to Apple CarPlay, mirroring an Android phone’s interface onto the car’s display for navigation, media, and messaging.","simplifiedExplanation":"Android Auto lets you use your Android phone on the car’s screen, so you can get directions, play music, or send texts safely while driving."}},{"startTime":935.0,"endTime":940.0,"type":"term","title":"Apple CarPlay","url":"/glossary/apple-carplay","quote":"[935.0s] But I'm 99.999% certain this will have wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.","canonicalId":"term:apple-carplay","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.95,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"Apple CarPlay is a system that mirrors an iPhone’s interface onto a vehicle’s infotainment screen, allowing access to navigation, music, messaging, and apps in a driver‑safe format.","simplifiedExplanation":"Apple CarPlay lets you use your iPhone on the car’s screen, so you can get directions, play music, or send texts without taking your hands off the wheel."}},{"startTime":1026.0,"endTime":1030.0,"type":"term","title":"hybrid powertrain","url":"/glossary/hybrid-powertrain","quote":"[1026.0s] They're supposed to be a hybrid powertrain coming.","canonicalId":"term:hybrid-powertrain","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"A hybrid powertrain combines an internal combustion engine with one or more electric motors and a battery pack to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. Hybrid vehicles can operate in various modes, such as electric-only, engine-only, or a blend of both.","simplifiedExplanation":"A hybrid powertrain means the car uses both a gasoline engine and electric motors to drive. This helps it use less gas and produce fewer emissions."}},{"startTime":1655.1,"endTime":1659.1,"type":"term","title":"articulation","url":"/glossary/articulation","quote":"you can see all the articulation and see the things that a lot of us don't most 45 degree angle get to do","canonicalId":"term:articulation","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"Articulation refers to the ability of a vehicle’s suspension to allow wheels on each side to move independently, enabling better off‑road handling.","simplifiedExplanation":"Articulation is how much the wheels on a car can move up and down separately. More articulation helps cars go over bumps without losing traction."}},{"startTime":2062.8,"endTime":2073.3,"type":"concept","title":"Shaitown Alley","url":"/glossary/shaitown-alley","quote":"We're introducing a new space called Shaitown Alley. Shaitown Alley is going to be everything car culture.","canonicalId":"concept:shaitown-alley","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.95,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"Shaitown Alley is a dedicated area within the event focused on car culture, showcasing aftermarket parts, custom builds, and automotive lifestyle.","simplifiedExplanation":"Shaitown Alley is a part of the show where people can see and buy car accessories, custom parts, and learn about car culture."}},{"startTime":2073.3,"endTime":2080.0,"type":"company","title":"SEMA","url":"/glossary/sema","quote":"Bringing a little bit of SEMA into the show with that kind of world. We're partnering with several local clubs.","canonicalId":"company:sema","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.95,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) is a trade organization that represents aftermarket automotive parts manufacturers and retailers.","simplifiedExplanation":"SEMA is a group that helps people who want to modify their cars by connecting them with parts and accessories."}},{"startTime":2176.5,"endTime":2181.3,"type":"concept","title":"Tokyo auto salon","url":"/glossary/tokyo-auto-salon","quote":"[2176.5s] we're going to go to the Tokyo auto salon out there and learn a little bit more about that.","canonicalId":"concept:tokyo-auto-salon","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.95,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"The Tokyo Auto Salon is a major automotive show held annually in Japan, showcasing custom cars, aftermarket parts, and the latest trends in vehicle styling. It attracts enthusiasts, designers, and manufacturers from around the world.","simplifiedExplanation":"Tokyo Auto Salon is a big car show in Japan where people bring custom cars and new parts to display. It’s a popular event for car lovers."}},{"startTime":2204.4,"endTime":2215.5,"type":"term","title":"wraps","url":"/glossary/wraps","quote":"[2204.4s] very cool. You'd mention wraps too. Raping's a really big thing. And if you don't know about wraps, [2209.7s] you do because you've seen cyber trucks.","canonicalId":"term:wraps","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.95,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"A wrap is a vinyl or polymer film applied over a vehicle’s paint to change its appearance, protect the original finish, and can be removed later. It’s often used for custom colors or designs.","simplifiedExplanation":"A wrap is a sheet you stick over your car’s paint to give it a new look or protect the original color. It can be taken off later if you want to change it."}},{"startTime":2647.9,"endTime":2653.3,"type":"concept","title":"15% tariff on Korean cars","url":"/glossary/15-tariff-on-korean-cars","quote":"Oh, the Korea problem. Now it's fair. There's now a 15% tariff on those bad boys.","canonicalId":"concept:15-tariff-on-korean-cars","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.92,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"A 15% tariff is an import tax imposed by the United States on certain vehicles manufactured in South Korea. This increases the retail price of those cars for U.S. consumers.","simplifiedExplanation":"Because of a trade policy, cars made in Korea now have an extra 15% tax added when they arrive in the U.S. This makes them more expensive for buyers."}},{"startTime":2693.8,"endTime":2700.0,"type":"part","title":"big sunroof","url":"/glossary/big-sunroof","quote":"[2693.8s] Do you know what the stuff is? Um, the big sunroof.","canonicalId":"part:big-sunroof","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"A large panoramic sunroof that allows more natural light into the cabin and can be opened for ventilation.","simplifiedExplanation":"A big sunroof is a large window on the roof of the car that you can open to let in sunshine and fresh air."}},{"startTime":2703.5,"endTime":2710.0,"type":"part","title":"heated steering wheel","url":"/glossary/heated-steering-wheel","quote":"[2703.5s] I think they get heated seats. That's our requirement for a lot of people.","canonicalId":"part:heated-steering-wheel","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"A steering wheel equipped with built‑in heating elements to keep the driver’s hands warm in cold weather.","simplifiedExplanation":"A heated steering wheel is a wheel that warms up so your hands don’t get cold when you drive in winter."}},{"startTime":2708.8,"endTime":2713.16,"type":"part","title":"heated seats","url":"/glossary/heated-seats","quote":"[2708.8s] I used the heated steering wheel and the heated seats","canonicalId":"part:heated-seats","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"Seat cushions with integrated heating elements that provide warmth to the occupants during cold conditions.","simplifiedExplanation":"Heated seats are seats that have built‑in heaters so you stay warm when it’s chilly outside."}},{"startTime":3161.0,"endTime":3165.9,"type":"brand","title":"Tesla","url":"/glossary/tesla","quote":"We had Tesla was at our show last year for the first time. They will be back again this year.","canonicalId":"brand:tesla","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.97,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"Tesla, Inc. is a U.S. electric vehicle and clean energy company founded by Elon Musk, famous for its Model S, 3, X, and Y cars and advanced autopilot features.","simplifiedExplanation":"Tesla builds electric cars that can drive themselves a bit. They’re known for fast charging and high-tech interiors."}},{"startTime":3165.9,"endTime":3172.0,"type":"brand","title":"Lucid","url":"/glossary/lucid","quote":"Lucid is looking like they'll be at Chicago again. They've got new products.","canonicalId":"brand:lucid","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.96,"source":"openai/gpt-oss-20b","data":{"explanation":"Lucid Motors is an American EV manufacturer that produces luxury electric sedans, most notably the Lucid Air, which boasts long range and high performance.","simplifiedExplanation":"Lucid makes fancy electric cars that can travel a long distance on one charge and are very fast."}}],"speakers":[{"id":"s1","name":"Consumer Guide Automotive","role":"host"},{"id":"s2","name":"Tom Appel","role":"host"},{"id":"s3","name":"Jill Ciminillo","role":"host"}],"transcripts":[{"url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/failing-ev-startups-redesigned-kia-seltos-chicago-auto-show-news/transcript.vtt","type":"text/vtt"}]}