Jan. 17, 2026 | Weekend Drive: Trump welcomes China in Detroit; Stellantis dumps PHEVs
About this episode
Discussions revolve around President Trump's recent visit to Detroit, where he made controversial remarks about welcoming Chinese automakers, igniting debates about the implications for U.S. manufacturing jobs. The episode also covers Stellantis' decision to eliminate its plug-in hybrid lineup in the U.S., contrasting with GM's commitment to PHEVs. Experts analyze the shifting strategies of major automakers in response to market demands and the evolving landscape of electric vehicles, highlighting the tension between immediate profits and long-term sustainability.
Automotive News’ Larry Vellequette and Michael Martinez discuss President Donald Trump’s combative Detroit visit, including him flipping off a Ford plant worker who heckled him and his invitation for Chinese automakers to build U.S. plants. Plus, Stellantis cancels its entire plug-in hybrid lineup while GM still plans PHEVs, and what the diverging strategies mean for the industry.
Detroit Auto Show
"...this time he did it in Detroit ahead of the Detroit Auto Show. What do you make of that? You know, here's the thing. This statement"
The Detroit Auto Show is a big event where car companies display their latest cars and technology. It's a chance for people to see what's new in the automotive world.
The Detroit Auto Show, officially known as the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), is a major automotive event held annually in Detroit, Michigan. It showcases new vehicles, automotive technology, and innovations from manufacturers around the world.
Toyota
"Think about Toyota, right? Toyota didn't build a plant in the US until the late 1980s when it built Kentucky. It was here for, you know, it was sending cars from Japan for 25 years."
Toyota is a car company from Japan that makes many popular cars. They are known for their quality and reliability.
Toyota is a Japanese automotive manufacturer known for producing reliable vehicles and pioneering lean manufacturing techniques. It has a significant presence in the global automotive market, including manufacturing plants in various countries.
BYD
"If all I have to do to say turn BYD into Toyota is build a plant here and suddenly I can make a few cars here."
BYD is a car company from China that makes electric vehicles. They are becoming more popular as people look for eco-friendly transportation options.
BYD is a Chinese automotive company that specializes in electric vehicles and batteries. It has rapidly grown in the automotive sector and is known for its innovative electric cars and buses.
plug-in hybrid
"we'll talk about Stellantis' decision to drop its entire plug-in hybrid lineup in the U.S."
A plug-in hybrid is a type of car that can use both electricity and gasoline. You can charge it at home, and it can drive a certain distance using just electricity before it needs to use gas.
A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) combines a gasoline engine with an electric motor and a rechargeable battery. PHEVs can be charged from an external power source and can operate on electric power alone for a limited range before switching to gasoline.
Stellantis
"we'll talk about Stellantis' decision to drop its entire plug-in hybrid lineup in the U.S. Reaffirms its commitment to introducing its own PHEVs."
Stellantis is a big car company that makes many different types of vehicles. It was created when two companies, Fiat Chrysler and PSA Group, joined together.
Stellantis is a multinational automotive manufacturing corporation formed from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group. It produces a wide range of vehicles under various brands, including Jeep, Dodge, and Peugeot.
EVs
"is the industry's pivot away from EVs, putting the U.S. at risk?"
EVs are cars that run only on electricity instead of gas. They are better for the environment and can save money on fuel.
EVs, or electric vehicles, are cars that are powered entirely by electricity rather than gasoline or diesel. They are known for being environmentally friendly and typically have lower operating costs compared to traditional vehicles.
Jeep Wrangler
"Stellantis just pulled the plug on its entire plug-in hybrid lineup for 2026, including the Jeep Wrangler 4xE, which was the top-selling PHEV in the U.S."
The Jeep Wrangler 4xE is a special version of the Wrangler that uses both gas and electric power. This helps it be more efficient and better for the environment while still being great for off-roading.
The Jeep Wrangler 4xE is a plug-in hybrid version of the iconic Wrangler, combining traditional off-road capabilities with electric power for improved efficiency and reduced emissions.
PHEV
"Stellantis just pulled the plug on its entire plug-in hybrid lineup for 2026, including the Jeep Wrangler 4xE, which was the top-selling PHEV in the U.S."
PHEV means Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle. It's a type of car that can use both electricity and gas, and you can charge it by plugging it in.
PHEV stands for Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle, which refers to vehicles that can be charged from an external source and can run on both electric power and gasoline. They offer the benefits of electric driving for short trips and the convenience of gasoline for longer journeys.
GM
"...the difference for GM and why GM is going forward, why Stellantis is pulling back..."
GM stands for General Motors, a big company that makes cars like Chevrolet and Cadillac.
GM, or General Motors, is one of the largest automobile manufacturers in the world, known for brands like Chevrolet, Cadillac, and GMC.
EV charges
"...we've now seen Ford take $20 billion in EV charges..."
EV charges are the costs that car companies spend to create electric cars and the places where you can charge them.
EV charges refer to the investments made by automotive companies to develop and produce electric vehicles (EVs), including infrastructure for charging them.
Ford
"...But I don't think that Stellantis is especially with the problems that they were having with Jeep..."
Ford is a well-known car company that makes popular vehicles like trucks and the Mustang sports car.
Ford is an American automobile manufacturer known for its trucks, SUVs, and the iconic Ford Mustang.
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