{"version":"1.0.0","episode":{"title":"How Do We Get More Kids Racing? Ferdi Porsche & Rob Smedley - F.A.T. Karting League","url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/how-do-we-get-more-kids-racing-ferdi-porsche-rob-smedley-f-a-t-karting-league","audioUrl":"https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/8wbyizb94cz37t3w/mt_the_inevitable_ep118_fat_karting_ferdi_porsche_rob_smedley.mp3","description":"In Episode 118 of The InEVitable, MotorTrend hosts Ed Loh and Jonny Lieberman sit down with two racing powerhouses — Ferdi Porsche, great-grandson of Ferdinand Porsche, and Rob Smedley, former Ferrari race engineer to Felipe Massa — to talk about FAT Karting League, a bold effort to democratize motorsport. Karting has always been the entry point for Formula 1 hopefuls — but at costs reaching over $1.5 million for families, the dream has been out of reach for most kids. FAT Karting aims to change that with arrive-and-drive electric karts, fixed budgets, data-driven coaching, and a truly merit-based system that makes motorsport accessible again. Ferdi and Rob explain how the league works, why they’re bringing racing to new generations worldwide, and how their mission extends from karting to F4, F3, and beyond. They also share details about the upcoming FAT Ice Race in Montana, global expansion plans, and why fun over speed might just be the future of car culture.\nGuests:\nFerdi Porsche, Founder, FAT International / FAT Karting League\nRob Smedley, Co-founder & CEO, FAT Karting League; former Ferrari F1 Race Engineer\nHosts:\nEd Loh & Jonny Lieberman | MotorTrend\n \n📍 Recorded in Los Angeles 🌐\nMore info: fat-karting-league.com | fat-international.com\n"},"annotations":[{"startTime":98.2,"endTime":105.8,"type":"brand","title":"Porsche","url":"/glossary/porsche","quote":"...with two really interesting guys, Ferdy Porsche, and Rob Smedley, who are starting the Fat Carding League.","canonicalId":"brand:porsche","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Porsche is a renowned German automotive manufacturer known for its high-performance sports cars, SUVs, and sedans. Founded in 1931, the brand is famous for models like the Porsche 911 and the Porsche Cayenne.","simplifiedExplanation":"Porsche is a famous car company from Germany that makes fast and luxurious cars. They are well-known for their sports cars, especially the Porsche 911."}},{"startTime":105.8,"endTime":110.2,"type":"concept","title":"carding league","url":"/glossary/carding-league","quote":"...who are starting the Fat Carding League. This is a new carding league that only recently came to the United States.","canonicalId":"concept:carding-league","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A carding league is an organized group or series of events focused on kart racing, where participants compete in go-karts on various tracks. This type of league promotes motorsport participation at a grassroots level.","simplifiedExplanation":"A carding league is a group that organizes races using small go-karts. It's a fun way for people to compete in racing without needing a full-size race car."}},{"startTime":122.2,"endTime":124.4,"type":"concept","title":"karting","url":"/glossary/karting","quote":"And we're talking about racing carts. This is the stuff that would eventually lead to the top tiers of racing.","canonicalId":"concept:karting","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Karting is a form of motorsport where participants race small, open-wheel vehicles called karts. It serves as a grassroots entry point for many aspiring professional drivers, often leading to higher tiers of racing, including Formula One.","simplifiedExplanation":"Karting is a type of racing that uses small go-kart vehicles. It's a popular way for young drivers to start their racing careers before moving up to bigger and faster cars."}},{"startTime":130.6,"endTime":134.9,"type":"concept","title":"Formula One","url":"/glossary/formula-one","quote":"...your dream of them being an F1 because you didn't make it, this is a cheaper way to do it than the traditional carding series.","canonicalId":"concept:formula-one","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Formula One, often abbreviated as F1, is the highest class of international auto racing for single-seater formula racing cars. It features a series of races known as Grands Prix, held on various circuits around the world.","simplifiedExplanation":"Formula One is a top-level car racing series where the fastest cars compete in races around the world. It's known for its high-speed action and advanced technology."}},{"startTime":193.8,"endTime":198.8,"type":"company","title":"Scuderia Ferrari","url":"/glossary/scuderia-ferrari","quote":"[193.8s] for, is a race engineer for a very small unknown racing team called Scuderia Ferrari. [198.8s] Yeah.","canonicalId":"company:scuderia-ferrari","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Scuderia Ferrari is the racing team division of the Italian sports car manufacturer Ferrari. It is one of the most successful teams in Formula 1 history, known for its iconic red cars and legendary drivers.","simplifiedExplanation":"Scuderia Ferrari is the racing team for Ferrari, a famous car brand. They compete in Formula 1 and have won many championships over the years."}},{"startTime":596.6,"endTime":602.8,"type":"concept","title":"Ferrari Challenge","url":"/glossary/ferrari-challenge","quote":"So the current model is like Ferrari challenge where it's like you, you have to buy your own mechanic. You got to pay Ferrari to service the things.","canonicalId":"concept:ferrari-challenge","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Ferrari Challenge is a single-make racing series where participants race Ferrari cars. It's designed for amateur drivers and provides a platform for them to compete in a regulated environment while using their own vehicles and support teams.","simplifiedExplanation":"Ferrari Challenge is a racing series where people race Ferrari cars. It's aimed at drivers who want to compete but may not be professional racers."}},{"startTime":1038.1,"endTime":1038.1,"type":"brand","title":"Sauber","url":"/glossary/sauber","quote":"...the coolest race cars of the 80s, 90s, early 2000s, Porsches, Ferrari, Sauber's everything.","canonicalId":"brand:sauber","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Sauber is a Swiss motorsport engineering company known for its Formula 1 team and has produced competitive racing cars since the 1990s.","simplifiedExplanation":"Sauber is a company that makes race cars, especially for Formula 1 racing, and has been around since the 1990s."}},{"startTime":1209.2,"endTime":1211.3,"type":"concept","title":"Le Mans","url":"/glossary/le-mans","quote":"I looked at the Le Mans winners of Porsche. And there was fat international. I was like, what the fuck is that?","canonicalId":"concept:le-mans","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Le Mans is a famous endurance race held annually in France, known for its grueling 24-hour format. It showcases the performance and durability of sports cars, making it a prestigious event in the automotive world.","simplifiedExplanation":"Le Mans is a big car race in France that lasts for 24 hours. Cars race around a track, and it's a test of how fast and reliable they are over a long time."}},{"startTime":1579.5,"endTime":1580.5,"type":"term","title":"drivetrain","url":"/glossary/drivetrain","quote":"[1579.5s] drivetrain from the ground up. Basically, like, I...","canonicalId":"term:drivetrain","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The drivetrain is a group of components that deliver power from the engine to the wheels. It includes the transmission, driveshafts, and differentials, which work together to move the vehicle.","simplifiedExplanation":"The drivetrain is what helps your car move. It includes parts that take power from the engine and send it to the wheels so the car can drive."}},{"startTime":1643.0,"endTime":1644.1,"type":"term","title":"hybrid assist motor","url":"/glossary/hybrid-assist-motor","quote":"And the MG UK is that's the hybrid assist motor from a F one car or like in motor generator unit kinetic WC. Yeah.","canonicalId":"term:hybrid-assist-motor","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A hybrid assist motor is an electric motor used in hybrid vehicles to provide additional power and improve fuel efficiency. It works alongside a traditional internal combustion engine to enhance performance and reduce emissions.","simplifiedExplanation":"A hybrid assist motor helps a car use less fuel by working with the regular engine. It gives extra power when needed, making the car more efficient."}},{"startTime":1644.1,"endTime":1645.7,"type":"term","title":"motor generator unit","url":"/glossary/motor-generator-unit","quote":"the hybrid assist motor from a F one car or like in motor generator unit kinetic WC. Yeah.","canonicalId":"term:motor-generator-unit","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A motor generator unit (MGU) is a component used in hybrid and electric vehicles that can function as both a motor and a generator. It converts electrical energy into mechanical energy and vice versa, allowing for energy recovery during braking and providing additional power during acceleration.","simplifiedExplanation":"A motor generator unit is a part that can turn electricity into movement and also take movement to create electricity. It helps the car save energy and go faster when needed."}},{"startTime":1733.9,"endTime":1736.4,"type":"term","title":"kilowatts","url":"/glossary/kilowatts","quote":"...is around about 12, 13 kilowatts of power. Like all up the cart will be like, with the kid in it will be like 160 kilograms.","canonicalId":"term:kilowatts","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Kilowatts (kW) is a unit of power that measures the rate of energy conversion or transfer. In automotive terms, it is often used to describe the power output of electric motors and engines.","simplifiedExplanation":"Kilowatts is a way to measure how much power something uses or produces. In cars, it's often used to talk about electric motors."}},{"startTime":1742.2,"endTime":1743.9,"type":"term","title":"horsepower","url":"/glossary/horsepower","quote":"...will be like 20 horsepower and 340 pounds. I wouldn't have been able to","canonicalId":"term:horsepower","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, commonly used to quantify the power output of engines. One horsepower is equivalent to about 0.746 kilowatts.","simplifiedExplanation":"Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. It tells you how much work the engine can do over time."}},{"startTime":1755.1,"endTime":1756.9,"type":"term","title":"power to weight ratio","url":"/glossary/power-to-weight-ratio","quote":"...power to weight ratio is really high. You know, you can't just like, you know, you're not,...","canonicalId":"term:power-to-weight-ratio","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The power to weight ratio is a measurement that compares the power output of a vehicle's engine to its weight. A higher ratio typically indicates better performance, as it means the vehicle can accelerate faster relative to its weight.","simplifiedExplanation":"Power to weight ratio tells you how much power a car has compared to how heavy it is. If a car is light but has a lot of power, it will usually be faster and more fun to drive."}},{"startTime":1909.4,"endTime":1910.4,"type":"part","title":"spool diff","url":"/glossary/spool-diff","quote":"It's kind of like having a spool diff in the car. So it's a fixed solid axle at the rear.","canonicalId":"part:spool-diff","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A spool differential is a type of differential that locks the two wheels on an axle together, providing equal power to both wheels. This is beneficial for racing or off-road situations where maximum traction is needed, but it can make cornering difficult since the wheels cannot rotate at different speeds.","simplifiedExplanation":"A spool diff is a part of a car's axle that makes sure both wheels turn at the same speed. This helps with grip but can make it harder to turn corners."}},{"startTime":1911.4,"endTime":1912.4,"type":"part","title":"solid axle","url":"/glossary/solid-axle","quote":"So it's a fixed solid axle at the rear. So the only way you can get it to go around the corner at high speed is that you're going to lift.","canonicalId":"part:solid-axle","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A solid axle is a type of rear suspension where the wheels are connected by a single, rigid beam. This design is often used in trucks and performance vehicles for durability and strength, but it can limit the suspension's ability to absorb bumps compared to independent suspension systems.","simplifiedExplanation":"A solid axle is a strong part of the car that connects the back wheels. It helps the car be tough and can handle heavy loads, but it doesn't move as smoothly over bumps as some other types of axles."}},{"startTime":2114.4,"endTime":2115.4,"type":"term","title":"thermal runaway","url":"/glossary/thermal-runaway","quote":"...thermal runaway just to debunk another myth. It usually takes around...","canonicalId":"term:thermal-runaway","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Thermal runaway is a condition where a battery cell overheats and causes a chain reaction leading to further overheating and potential fire. This is particularly a concern in lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles.","simplifiedExplanation":"Thermal runaway happens when a battery gets too hot and can start a fire. It's a serious issue, especially in electric cars that use lithium-ion batteries."}},{"startTime":2405.4,"endTime":2406.4,"type":"concept","title":"F4","quote":"...this massive team of like eight F4 cars three cars two F2 cars but delivery is our design.","canonicalId":"concept:f4","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"F4 refers to the FIA Formula 4, a junior single-seater racing category designed to help young drivers progress to higher levels of motorsport. It features cars that are built to a specific set of regulations to ensure a level playing field.","simplifiedExplanation":"F4 is a type of racing series for young drivers. The cars are made to be similar so that the focus is on the driver's skill rather than the car's performance."}},{"startTime":2407.4,"endTime":2408.4,"type":"concept","title":"F2","quote":"...three cars two F2 cars but delivery is our design.","canonicalId":"concept:f2","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"F2 refers to the FIA Formula 2 Championship, which is a step below Formula 1 and serves as a feeder series for aspiring F1 drivers. The cars are designed to be fast and competitive, showcasing the talents of the drivers.","simplifiedExplanation":"F2 is a racing series that helps drivers get ready for Formula 1. The cars are fast and are used to see who has the best driving skills."}},{"startTime":2618.9,"endTime":2625.8,"type":"concept","title":"NASCAR","url":"/glossary/nascar","quote":"...that carding doesn't normally align with which is nascar well I know but so you feel like this this marketplace though is a is hugely untapped...","canonicalId":"concept:nascar","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"NASCAR, or the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing, is a popular motorsport in the United States known for its stock car racing on oval tracks. It has a dedicated fan base and is characterized by high-speed races and a unique culture surrounding the events.","simplifiedExplanation":"NASCAR is a type of car racing that's really popular in the U.S. It features cars that look like regular cars but are specially built for racing. The races usually happen on oval tracks and attract a lot of fans."}},{"startTime":3533.3,"endTime":3540.0,"type":"concept","title":"ice race","url":"/glossary/ice-race","quote":"...so the fat ice race in Montana yes so I am I mean ice race kind of originally comes from Austria right that's where we it's an historic event...","canonicalId":"concept:ice-race","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"An ice race is a motorsport event where vehicles compete on a frozen surface, typically a lake or a specially prepared track. These races often feature cars equipped with special tires designed for traction on ice, and they can be quite thrilling due to the challenging conditions.","simplifiedExplanation":"An ice race is a type of car race that takes place on ice, like a frozen lake. Cars use special tires to help them grip the slippery surface, making it an exciting and unique event."}},{"startTime":3565.0,"endTime":3569.7,"type":"concept","title":"car week","url":"/glossary/car-week","quote":"...especially car week there's so many like I have a ton of friends here yes I figured why not why not try and bring it here...","canonicalId":"concept:car-week","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Car week typically refers to a series of automotive events and gatherings, often featuring car shows, auctions, and races. These events attract car enthusiasts and collectors, showcasing a wide range of vehicles from classic cars to modern supercars.","simplifiedExplanation":"Car week is a special time when lots of car events happen, like shows and races. It's a chance for car fans to see and talk about their favorite vehicles."}},{"startTime":3650.0,"endTime":3652.4,"type":"car","title":"BMW 2002","url":"/cars/bmw/2002","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c4/1974_BMW_2002_turbo.jpg","quote":"...but we also had like a BMW 2002 so it's literally like the whole idea is to to display or like to show the car world...","canonicalId":"car:bmw:2002","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The BMW 2002 is a classic compact car produced by BMW from 1968 to 1976. It is known for its sporty handling and is considered a precursor to the modern BMW 3 Series.","simplifiedExplanation":"The BMW 2002 is an older small car made by BMW that was popular for its fun driving experience. It's a classic car that many enthusiasts love.","imageAttribution":"Herranderssvensson (CC BY-SA 3.0)"}},{"startTime":3662.4,"endTime":3666.5,"type":"car","title":"Audi S1","url":"/cars/audi/s1","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/aa/2017_Audi_S1.jpg","quote":"...the one that blew me away when I was there with a little Audi S1s and they like were just like straight piped they were spitting fire...","canonicalId":"car:audi:s1","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Audi S1 is a high-performance variant of the Audi A1, known for its sporty design and agile handling. It features a turbocharged engine and is often associated with rally racing.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Audi S1 is a sporty version of a small Audi car. It's known for being fast and fun to drive, especially in racing.","imageAttribution":"Calreyn88 (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}}],"speakers":[{"id":"s1","name":"MotorTrend","role":"host"}],"transcripts":[{"url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/how-do-we-get-more-kids-racing-ferdi-porsche-rob-smedley-f-a-t-karting-league/transcript.vtt","type":"text/vtt"}]}