Hybrids Take The Wheel?!?
About this episode
The discussion centers around the recent NADA convention and the evolving landscape of automotive powertrains. With the anticipated drop in EV sales due to the expiration of tax credits, automakers are shifting focus back to hybrids and gasoline vehicles. Notable insights include GM and Ford's plans to repurpose EV production for traditional vehicles, and Stellantis's commitment to V8 engines. The hosts debate the practicality of plug-in hybrids versus traditional hybrids, highlighting consumer preferences and the challenges of charging infrastructure.
The ground just shifted under the auto industry, and we take you straight to the dealer floor to show what’s really moving metal. With the $7,500 EV tax credit gone and emissions targets easing, automakers are recalibrating fast—dialing up hybrids, testing extended-range EVs, and even hinting at new life for V8 performance where demand is loudest. We connect policy changes to showroom choices, price pressure, and the practical hurdles that still stall EV adoption: high MSRPs, thin charging networks, and range that doesn’t always meet real commutes.
We break down why traditional hybrids are winning hearts and wallets right now. No plugs. Fewer compromises. Better fuel economy without changing habits. Then we dig into extended-range EVs, a sleeper category that pairs electric drive with an onboard generator to put range anxiety on ice while trimming complexity versus plug-in hybrids. PHEVs get a critical look too—those 30-ish electric miles sound great until your round trip or charger access says otherwise. Add in dealership intel on what sits, what sells, and how rigid trim bundles can stifle choice, and you’ve got a candid view of today’s buying reality at the $50,000 average price point.
Enthusiasts, we didn’t forget you. We celebrate muscle car heritage with a tour of wagon-based builds that borrow glory from icons like the GTO, 442, and Chevelle SS, and talk about why sound, torque, and identity still matter in a multi-powertrain future. To round things out, we map a stack of Mardi Gras road trips across Texas—from packed Galveston nights to family-friendly boardwalks—because the best car talk ends with somewhere to go.
If you love practical car advice with a pulse, hit play. Subscribe for more smart takes on new tech, real ownership costs, and the culture that keeps us driving. Share the show with a friend and drop a review—what’s your next powertrain and why?
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miles per gallon
"I mean, I got 33.7 miles to the gallon this week. Really?"
Miles per gallon (MPG) tells you how far a car can go using one gallon of gas. It's a way to measure how fuel-efficient a car is.
Miles per gallon (MPG) is a measure of how far a vehicle can travel on one gallon of fuel. It's an important metric for understanding a car's fuel efficiency.
hybrid sales
"Some automakers reported record hybrid sales to close out 2025, and the technology may gain more favor going forward..."
Hybrid sales are about cars that use both gas and electricity to run. They're getting more popular because they can save on fuel and are better for the environment.
Hybrid sales refer to the sales of vehicles that use both an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. This technology is becoming increasingly popular as consumers look for more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly options.
plug-in hybrids
"...potentially squeezing out plug-in hybrids, which is a good thing in my opinion, which serve less of a need as regulations are loosened."
Plug-in hybrids are cars that can be charged like electric cars but also use gas. They can drive on electricity for a while before needing to switch to gas, giving drivers more options.
Plug-in hybrids are vehicles that can be charged from an external power source and can operate on electric power alone for a limited range before switching to a gasoline engine. They offer flexibility for drivers who want to use electric power but still have the option of gasoline when needed.
extended range EVs
"Extended range EVs are also starting to become an option for consumers seeking an alternative to gasoline."
Extended range EVs are electric cars that can drive on electricity but also have a gas engine to help keep the battery charged. This means you can drive further without worrying about running out of power.
Extended range EVs (electric vehicles) are designed to operate primarily on electric power but include a gasoline engine that acts as a generator to recharge the battery when it runs low. This allows for greater driving range compared to standard electric vehicles.
charge capacity
"The only thing that they're changing is the charge capacity of the batteries, so it hangs on to the charge longer."
Charge capacity is how much electricity a battery can hold. The more it can hold, the farther an electric car can go before needing to be charged again.
Charge capacity refers to the amount of electrical energy a battery can store, typically measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). A higher charge capacity allows an electric vehicle to travel further on a single charge.
zero emission vehicle
"zero emission vehicle sales targets. So what's fueling the rise in U.S. consumer interest"
A zero emission vehicle is a type of car that doesn't release any harmful gases into the air while it runs. This includes electric cars and some types of hydrogen-powered cars.
A zero emission vehicle (ZEV) is a vehicle that produces no tailpipe emissions, meaning it does not emit pollutants or greenhouse gases while being operated. This category typically includes electric vehicles (EVs) and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.
hybrid vehicles
"in hybrid vehicles? Well, some automakers and dealers had pushed back"
Hybrid vehicles are cars that use both a gasoline engine and an electric motor to run. This helps them save fuel and reduce pollution compared to regular cars.
Hybrid vehicles combine a traditional internal combustion engine with an electric propulsion system. This allows them to use less fuel and produce fewer emissions than conventional vehicles.
GM
"GM and Ford have announced plans to repurpose"
GM stands for General Motors, a big company that makes cars like Chevrolet and Cadillac. They are working on making more electric cars.
GM, or General Motors, is one of the largest automobile manufacturers in the world, known for brands like Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, and Buick. The company has been transitioning towards electric vehicles in recent years.
V8 engine
"...huge opportunities to expand production of vehicles with V8 engines. Go, go, go, go. It's a lever that we intend to pull very hard next year..."
A V8 engine has eight cylinders arranged in a V shape, which helps it produce a lot of power. It's commonly found in larger vehicles like trucks and performance cars.
A V8 engine is an eight-cylinder engine configuration where the cylinders are arranged in a V shape. This design allows for a more powerful engine that can produce higher horsepower and torque compared to smaller engine configurations.
internal combustion engines
"...not only through V8, in general, for internal combustion engines."
Internal combustion engines are the type of engines that run on gasoline or diesel fuel. They create power by burning fuel inside the engine, which is how most cars work today.
Internal combustion engines are engines that generate power by burning fuel within the engine itself, typically using gasoline or diesel. This is the traditional engine type found in most vehicles before the rise of electric vehicles.
Dodge Challenger
"Well, all I can think of is the Challenger and the Charger SRTs, the Hemmys."
The Dodge Challenger SRT is a sporty version of the Challenger car. It's built for speed and has a strong engine, making it exciting to drive for those who like fast cars.
The Dodge Challenger SRT is a performance-oriented version of the Challenger, featuring powerful engines and aggressive styling. It's part of the modern muscle car revival and is known for its impressive acceleration and handling.
Hemi
"Well, all I can think of is the Challenger and the Charger SRTs, the Hemmys."
Hemi is a special type of engine that helps cars go faster and perform better. It's shaped like a half-sphere, which helps the engine work more efficiently.
Hemi refers to a type of engine design characterized by a hemispherical combustion chamber. This design allows for more efficient airflow and combustion, resulting in increased power and performance, commonly found in high-performance vehicles like the Dodge Charger and Challenger.
Dodge Charger
"Well, all I can think of is the Challenger and the Charger SRTs, the Hemmys."
The Dodge Charger SRT is a fast and powerful version of the Charger car. It's designed for people who love speed and performance, making it popular among car fans.
The Dodge Charger SRT is a high-performance variant of the Charger, known for its powerful engines and sporty design. It features a range of performance enhancements that make it a favorite among muscle car enthusiasts.
Ford F150
"Ford, for instance, has canceled the F-150 lightning electric pickup with accurate discontinued..."
The Ford F-150 Lightning is an electric version of the regular F-150 truck. It runs on electricity instead of gasoline, which can save money on fuel and help the environment.
The Ford F-150 Lightning is an all-electric version of Ford's popular F-150 pickup truck. It offers the utility of a traditional pickup with the benefits of electric power, including instant torque and lower operating costs.
ZDX EV
"...to the ZDX EV developed with GM."
The Acura ZDX is a new electric SUV made by Acura, which is a luxury brand from Honda. It's designed to be more environmentally friendly by using electricity instead of gasoline.
The Acura ZDX is an electric vehicle developed in partnership with General Motors. It represents Acura's entry into the electric SUV market, aiming to combine luxury with eco-friendliness.
EREVs
"Hybrids and EREVs, extra range EVs, give consumers more choices, granted. Sales of traditional hybrids which don't have a plug have been gaining traction among US consumers."
EREVs are electric cars that can also use a gas engine to help them go farther when the battery runs low. This means you can drive longer distances without worrying about running out of charge.
Extended Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs) are electric vehicles that have a small internal combustion engine to generate electricity, which extends the driving range beyond that of a standard electric vehicle. This allows for longer trips without the need for frequent recharging.
Ram 1500
"...Stellanus is expected to launch extended-range EV versions of the Ram 1500 pickup..."
The Ram 1500 is a big truck that many people use for work or towing things. It's known for being comfortable and having lots of tech features.
The Ram 1500 is a full-size pickup truck known for its blend of performance, comfort, and technology. It's popular for both work and personal use, offering various configurations and features to suit different needs.
Jeep Grand Wagoneer
"and Jeep Grand Wagoneer SUV this year. The automaker has canceled its plug-in hybrid lineup"
The Jeep Grand Wagoneer is a large SUV that is designed for both luxury and off-road driving. It has a lot of space inside and comes with many high-end features.
The Jeep Grand Wagoneer is a full-size luxury SUV that combines off-road capability with premium features. It is known for its spacious interior and advanced technology offerings.
Jeep Grand
"of the Ram 1500 pickup and Jeep Grand Wagoneer SUV this year. The automaker has cancel..."
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a type of SUV, which is a bigger car that can handle rough roads and off-road adventures. It's popular because it offers both a comfortable ride and the ability to go off the beaten path.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a mid-size SUV known for its off-road capabilities and luxurious features. It has been a significant player in the SUV market since its introduction in 1992, often praised for its blend of ruggedness and comfort.
Ford F150 Lightning
"Ford, too, planning an extended-range electric pickup to replace the F-150 Lightning, the gasoline engine used"
The Ford F-150 Lightning is an electric truck, which means it runs on batteries instead of gasoline. It's designed to be powerful and useful for work or everyday driving, just like regular trucks but more environmentally friendly.
The Ford F-150 Lightning is an all-electric version of Ford's best-selling F-150 pickup truck. It represents a significant shift towards electric vehicles in the pickup market, offering impressive performance and technology.
on-board generator
"the gasoline engine used an on-board generator to charge the battery, enables longer driving ranges"
An on-board generator is a device in some cars that can create electricity while you drive. This helps charge the car's battery or power other things you might need.
An on-board generator in a vehicle is a system that allows the vehicle to generate electricity while driving, which can be used to charge the battery or power other devices. This feature enhances the vehicle's utility, especially for electric and hybrid models.
regular hybrid
"...versus just a regular hybrid are what service issues do each of them have?"
A regular hybrid is a car that uses both gas and electricity but can't be plugged in to charge. It gets its electric power from the gas engine and from braking.
A regular hybrid vehicle uses both a gasoline engine and an electric motor, but it cannot be plugged in to recharge the battery. Instead, it relies on regenerative braking and the gasoline engine to charge the battery while driving.
Tesla charger
"...the other one is the Tesla charger. Tesla charger charges Teslas a lot faster and also newer electric vehicles than does the old style."
A Tesla charger is a special device used to charge Tesla cars. It works faster than regular plugs, so you can get more power to your car in less time.
A Tesla charger refers to the proprietary charging equipment designed specifically for Tesla electric vehicles, allowing for faster charging compared to standard outlets. Tesla chargers are typically found at home, workplaces, and public charging stations.
LS
"Let's drop an LS in it before you turn it in. Yeah, the Stellantis version of an LS."
The LS is a type of engine made by General Motors. It's popular for being powerful and is often used to replace older engines in cars to make them faster.
The LS is a series of V8 engines produced by General Motors, known for their performance and versatility. They are commonly swapped into various vehicles for increased power and reliability.
Stellantis
"Yeah, the Stellantis version of an LS. There you go."
Stellantis is a big car company that makes many different brands of vehicles, like Jeep and Dodge. They were created when two companies merged together.
Stellantis is a multinational automotive manufacturing corporation formed from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group. It produces a variety of vehicle brands including Jeep, Dodge, and Chrysler.
NADA
"Well, because this came out with NADA, does NADA, does this meeting have anything to do with the NADA book that they produce like once or twice a year?"
NADA is an organization that helps car dealers by giving them information about car prices and values. They publish a book that shows how much cars are worth.
NADA stands for the National Automobile Dealers Association, which provides resources, data, and guidelines for car dealerships in the United States. They publish a book that helps dealers determine vehicle values.
Hyundai Santa Fe
"How the Santa Fe is selling, I don't know. But I can tell you that the sticker on it, and I don't know whether this one that I currently am driving, was built in the United States or whether it was born in Korea."
The Hyundai Santa Fe is a type of SUV that offers a lot of space and comfort for passengers. It's known for being a good value and has many features that make it enjoyable to drive.
The Hyundai Santa Fe is a mid-size SUV known for its spacious interior and range of features. It has been popular in various markets due to its combination of comfort, technology, and value.
American muscle cars
"Well, interestingly enough, nearly all of the iconic American muscle cars of the late 60s and early 70s had close cousins of the station wagon variety."
Muscle cars are fast American cars that became popular in the 1960s and 1970s. They usually have big engines and are built for speed and power, making them exciting to drive.
American muscle cars are high-performance vehicles that originated in the 1960s and 1970s, characterized by powerful engines and aggressive styling. They were designed for speed and performance, often featuring V8 engines and lightweight bodies.
restomod
"whether they're all of what-if, or just going to make a restomod out of its style. So, here we go, Mike."
Restomod means taking an old car and fixing it up with new parts to make it better to drive, while still keeping its classic look. It's a way to enjoy an old car with modern features.
Restomod is a term used to describe a classic car that has been restored and modified with modern components for improved performance and comfort while retaining its original style. This approach allows enthusiasts to enjoy vintage aesthetics with contemporary reliability.
Ford Torino
"The first one is a Ford Torino wagon. Ford Custom Torino GT. Well, not as popular as the Mustangs of that era."
The Ford Torino is a type of car that Ford made between 1968 and 1976. It was popular for its sporty versions and is considered part of the muscle car category, which includes cars designed for speed and performance.
The Ford Torino is a mid-size car that was produced by Ford from 1968 to 1976. It was known for its performance variants and was part of the muscle car era, often overshadowed by the more popular Mustang.
Pontiac Torino
"So, here we go, Mike. The first one is a Ford Torino wagon. Ford Custom Torino GT."
Pontiac was a car brand that made sporty and fun cars, especially popular in the past. They are known for their unique styles and performance but are no longer being made.
Pontiac was a brand of automobiles produced by General Motors, known for its performance-oriented vehicles and sporty designs. The brand was popular in the mid-20th century but was discontinued in 2010.
Ford Mustang
"...rd Custom Torino GT. Well, not as popular as the Mustangs of that era. Ford's large Torino-based muscle ca..."
The Ford Mustang is a classic sports car that many people love for its speed and cool looks. It's been around for a long time and is famous for being fun to drive.
The Ford Mustang is an iconic American muscle car that has been in production since 1964. Known for its powerful engines and sporty design, it has become a symbol of American automotive culture and performance.
Shelby Cobra
"...Torino wagon with some inspiration from a Torino Cobra or a Talladega? You have one heck of a cool fami..."
The Shelby Cobra is a super-fast sports car from the 1960s that many people admire for its speed and style. It's considered a classic and is very sought after by collectors.
The Shelby Cobra is a high-performance sports car that was produced in the 1960s, known for its lightweight design and powerful V8 engine. It has become a legendary vehicle among car enthusiasts and collectors.
Oldsmobile Vista
"Check that out. Next one, Mike, is an Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser wagon 442."
The Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser is a type of family car called a station wagon that was made a long time ago. It's known for being roomy and comfortable for trips with lots of people or luggage.
The Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser is a station wagon produced from the 1960s to the 1970s, known for its unique design and spacious interior. It was popular among families for its practicality and comfort.
Pontiac Gto
"Pontiac Tempest GTO wagon. The Pontiac GTO started the whole muscle car thing in 1964 and o..."
The Pontiac GTO is a classic car that many people consider one of the first muscle cars, which are fast cars with big engines. It became famous in the 1960s for being powerful and exciting to drive.
The Pontiac GTO is often credited with starting the muscle car era in the 1960s, combining a powerful engine with a lightweight body. Its popularity and performance set the standard for many high-performance cars that followed.
Dodge Super B
"... in that wagon as well. The Dodge Cornette wagon Super B. Don't think that we've left them out part guys ..."
The Dodge Super Bee is a classic muscle car from the late 1960s that people loved for its speed and cool looks. It's a car that many collectors seek out today.
The Dodge Super Bee is a muscle car produced in the late 1960s and early 1970s, known for its powerful engines and aggressive styling. It was designed to compete with other muscle cars of the era and has become a collector's item.
Chevrolet Chevelle
"...the last one we have, Michael, is a Chevy wagon, Chevelle SS. Finally, we got Chevy."
The Chevrolet Chevelle is a car that was really popular in the 1960s and 70s, especially known for being fast and stylish. The SS version is the sportier model that many people love.
The Chevrolet Chevelle is a mid-size car that gained popularity in the 1960s and 70s, especially in its SS (Super Sport) performance variant. It is celebrated for its powerful engines and classic muscle car styling.
Chevrolet Ss
"...Chevy. Few muscle cars and more popular than the Chevrolet SS of the late 60s and 70s, the Chevelle wagon coun..."
The Chevrolet SS is a big car that has a powerful engine, making it fun to drive like a sports car. It's a sedan, which means it has four doors and is good for families but still has a sporty feel.
The Chevrolet SS is a full-size sedan that was produced in the early 2010s, known for its performance and V8 engine. It combines the practicality of a sedan with the power of a muscle car, making it a unique offering in Chevrolet's lineup.
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