Lots of Honda Hybrids

The Ford Excursion is a large, full-size SUV known for its big size and capability. It’s often brought up in conversations about older, heavy-duty vehicles that were built for towing and space. In the episode, it’s mentioned as part of a story about having fun on an outing.

The Honda Ridgeline is a midsize pickup truck that blends truck utility with a more car-like ride and comfort. It’s often discussed as an alternative for people who want pickup practicality without going to a full-size truck. In the episode, it’s mentioned as a vehicle the host had a chance to drive or see.

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is the brand’s flagship luxury sedan, built to deliver a very high-end “passenger experience” with advanced comfort and tech. In this segment, the host discusses the 2027 S-Class’s design and interior screen changes, plus its infotainment (MBUX) and powertrain setup (including mild-hybrid assist).

“Super screen” refers to Mercedes-Benz’s large, integrated digital display setup inside the cabin. It’s part of the S-Class’s interior tech refresh, replacing or reworking an earlier “hyper screen” configuration.

MBUX is Mercedes-Benz’s infotainment software and user interface—basically the system that runs the car’s screens for navigation, media, and vehicle settings. The host highlights it as a usable, phone-independent interface, emphasizing the “big map” style layout and widgets.

The Honda S500 is a small, classic Honda sports car known historically for its compact size and lightweight character. In the episode, it’s mentioned alongside a note that there are only two engines and that many are all-wheel drive (“4MATICs” is referenced in the transcript). That makes it relevant to a discussion about specific variants and drivetrain availability.

A mild hybrid is a hybrid system that uses an electric motor to assist the engine, but it typically can’t drive the car by itself like a full hybrid or plug-in hybrid. The host connects this to efficiency improvements and mentions “boost at the low end,” which is the electric assist helping during initial acceleration.

4MATIC is Mercedes-Benz’s all-wheel-drive system, designed to send power to all four wheels for better traction and stability. In this segment, the host notes that the S500 variants discussed are 4MATICs, meaning they’re configured for all-wheel traction.

An inline six (I6) is an engine layout where six cylinders are arranged in a single straight line. The host specifically says the S500 uses an inline six and that this engine’s design has been updated for efficiency.

In this context, “compression” refers to engine compression-related design choices (commonly higher effective compression ratio or related combustion changes) aimed at improving efficiency. The host says Mercedes has been doing “a lot of stuff with compression” to make the powertrains more efficient.

“E booster” is the name the host uses for Mercedes’ mild-hybrid electric assist component/system. It’s intended to provide extra torque/boost at low engine speeds, improving responsiveness without requiring a full electric drive system.

The Mercedes-Benz S580E 4MATIC is an S-Class plug-in hybrid that pairs an inline-six with an electric drive for extra low-speed smoothness and potential electric-only driving. The “4MATIC” indicates all-wheel drive, so power can be distributed to improve traction and stability.

A plug-in hybrid (PHEV) is a hybrid car with a battery large enough to be charged from an external power source. It can often drive some distance on electricity alone, then switches to using the engine (and/or hybrid system) when the battery is depleted.

A “kilowatt hour” (kWh) is a unit of energy storage used for battery capacity. A larger kWh battery generally means more potential electric driving range, though real-world range also depends on vehicle efficiency and driving conditions.

The Mercedes-Benz S580 4MATIC is the S-Class variant with a V8 and all-wheel drive, positioned as the “more traditional” powertrain option versus the hybrid. In this segment, the hosts focus on how Mercedes changed the V8’s internal design to improve efficiency while trying to preserve a V8-like feel and sound.

The Miller cycle is an engine operating strategy that improves efficiency by altering how long the intake valve stays open (often effectively reducing pumping losses). In this segment, the host says the V8 is on the Miller cycle to gain efficiency, then Mercedes uses additional hardware changes to reduce the “wrong” vibration and make it sound more like a conventional V8.

Exhaust manifold valving uses valves in the exhaust system to change flow paths and/or timing, which can alter sound and sometimes performance. In this segment, Mercedes changes the exhaust manifold valving so the engine “sounds like a V8” despite the different crankshaft/vibration characteristics.

Rear steering is a system that turns the rear wheels to help the car rotate more easily at low speeds and feel more stable at higher speeds. The host mentions adjustable rear-steer angles (4.5 degrees up to an optional 10 degrees), which changes how much the car can “turn in” without steering the front wheels as much.

MBOS is Mercedes-Benz’s software platform for the vehicle, described here as “software-defined vehicle software.” The idea is that many functions are controlled by software and can be updated or configured, similar to how modern phones and computers evolve over time.

A cloud-based air suspension system uses connected data to anticipate road conditions and adjust the suspension accordingly. The host describes a “crowdsourced” approach: one Mercedes detects a bump and the system shares that information so other cars can pre-adjust before reaching the same spot.

The hosts discuss an experimental method to evaluate whether the cloud-based suspension actually improves ride quality. The approach is to drive the same road, then introduce a temporary speed bump and compare how the car behaves before and after the system updates.

Adaptive high beam is an advanced headlight system that automatically adjusts high-beam lighting based on what’s in front of you. Instead of turning high beams fully off, it can dim or mask the portion of the beam aimed toward oncoming drivers.

“Digital lights” usually refers to electronically controlled headlight systems that can precisely shape the light pattern. This enables features like selective dimming/masking for oncoming traffic and more controlled high-beam behavior.

This segment discusses how adaptive high beams work and why they can be hard to test in certain driving programs. It also touches on regulatory timing that affects when features become available in the U.S.

Headlight masking is when a headlight system selectively dims or blocks part of the beam aimed toward another vehicle. The goal is to keep high-beam visibility while preventing glare for oncoming drivers.

The Mazda MX-5 (Miata) is a lightweight, two-seat roadster known for being fun to drive and relatively simple compared with many modern sports cars. It’s frequently discussed because it’s accessible, encourages driver engagement, and has a long-running reputation. In the episode, it’s referenced as an example of a low, sporty car that many people enjoy driving.

Polycarbonate is a tough, impact-resistant plastic often used in protective glazing and safety applications. In an armored car context, it can help contain fragments or resist penetration even if the outer glass is compromised.

Tear gas is a chemical irritant used to cause intense eye and respiratory discomfort. Armored vehicles may include systems to seal the cabin and provide filtered air so occupants can continue for a limited time during an incident.

Run-flat tires are designed to keep supporting the vehicle even after a puncture, allowing limited continued driving. The segment describes them as having reinforced structure so the car can still move at reduced speed after damage.

CDL stands for Commercial Driver’s License, a special license required to operate certain large or heavy vehicles. The segment ties it to the armored S-Class Guard’s extreme weight and the need for trained drivers.

Body-on-frame is a construction method where the vehicle’s body is mounted on a separate, load-bearing frame. It’s common in heavy-duty vehicles because the frame can handle extreme loads—useful for armored limousines and other high-weight builds.

The Studebaker Presidents refers to a luxury-focused model line from Studebaker, typically associated with higher-end features for its era. In the episode, it’s mentioned in the context of needing a CDL and learning to drive a V12-equipped car, suggesting the discussion is about big-engine complexity and driving requirements. That makes it relevant to a “what it takes to drive/own” type of conversation.

The 2026 Nissan Sentra SR is a modern compact sedan positioned against cars like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. In this segment, the host highlights its CVT behavior, dual 12.3-inch displays, and practical packaging (including the trunk opening for long items).

The Nissan 200 SX is a compact sports car model that’s often remembered for its sporty styling and driving character. In the episode, it’s mentioned as part of a comparison to another Nissan model, with the speaker talking about liking a newer Sentra SR. That context suggests the conversation is about how different Nissan models fit different preferences.

CVT stands for continuously variable transmission, a type of automatic that uses pulleys and a belt (or chain) to smoothly change gear ratios. The host notes Nissan recalibrated the CVT for the 2026 Sentra to reduce the typical “rubber banding” and “motorboating” feel, and it also uses simulated shifting so it feels more natural.

“Rubber banding” is a common complaint with some CVTs where engine speed rises and falls without the car accelerating in a matching way. It can feel like the car is stretching the power delivery instead of pulling smoothly.

Simulated shifting is when a CVT (or other automatic) intentionally imitates stepped gear changes by holding ratios and changing them in noticeable steps. The goal is to make the driving feel more like a traditional automatic or manual, especially under acceleration.

The “motorboating effect” describes a rough, oscillating engine/vehicle behavior some drivers associate with certain CVT calibrations. Instead of a steady pull, the car can feel like it’s surging or hunting between ratios.

CCS (Combined Charging System) is a common fast-charging standard for many modern electric vehicles. When a car includes CCS support, it can use high-power public chargers to recharge more quickly than basic charging.

AC charging uses alternating current, typically from home wall boxes or standard outlets, and it’s usually slower than DC fast charging. The mention of an AC adapter implies the car can connect to more charging setups beyond just fast-charging stations.

APR (annual percentage rate) is the interest rate used to calculate the cost of borrowing for a loan. A “zero APR” incentive means the financing cost is effectively waived for the promotional period, which can significantly change the total price paid.

Incentives are manufacturer or government programs that reduce the effective purchase cost of a vehicle, often through rebates or financing promotions. The hosts compare different incentive structures (including federal and state/local charging-related incentives) to estimate which deal is cheaper.

SAE is an engineering organization (often associated with automotive engineering and professional development). In this context, it’s mentioned to explain the host’s ability to do freelance work and how they plan to apply that money toward the car purchase.

The Tesla Model 3 is an electric sedan that’s often used as a benchmark for pricing and range in the EV market. Here, it’s mentioned as a future/possible comparison point against the Hyundai IONIQ 5 purchase cost.

Hyundai is the automaker behind the IONIQ 5 discussed in this segment. The hosts attribute incentive availability and pricing strategy to Hyundai when talking about how deals can vary by location and eligibility.

Electrify America (EA) is a major U.S. network of public DC fast chargers. The hosts mention free EA charging for a limited time, which directly affects how often they need to use paid charging or gas-like alternatives.

The Hyundai Kona is a compact crossover SUV known for being offered with multiple powertrains, including hybrid and electric versions. In this segment, it’s mentioned as the car the hosts bought from a different dealership due to color availability.

The Chevrolet Corvette is a long-running American sports car known for performance and a strong enthusiast following. It often gets mentioned when people talk about classic models or the idea of owning a “real” sports car. In this podcast context, it’s brought up as a reference point to what someone doesn’t have in their garage.

The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is an electric van styled with a retro-inspired look and designed for family or passenger use. It’s mentioned in the context of a future “Tourer” version, which suggests discussion about upcoming variants and availability. In a podcast, it often comes up when people talk about EVs that still feel like traditional vans.

The Hyundai IONIQ 5 is a battery-electric crossover built around a modern EV platform, and it’s known for its fast-charging capability and spacious, practical interior. In the discussion, it’s the current EV in the driveway that frames the comparison to the upcoming ID Buzz Tourer.

“400 volt architecture” refers to the vehicle’s high-voltage electrical system level used to power the electric drivetrain and to interface with fast chargers. Higher-voltage systems (like 800 volts) can reduce current for the same power, which can make fast-charging faster and more efficient under the right charger conditions.

The iX3 (G08) is an electric SUV model discussed in terms of its pricing relative to a newer version and its technical features like an 800-volt electrical system. The episode also mentions “more rain,” which likely refers to weather-related testing or capability. It’s brought up as part of a comparison between EV generations and specifications.

“800 volts” describes an EV’s high-voltage electrical system. Compared with 400-volt designs, an 800-volt architecture can enable higher charging power with lower current, which often improves fast-charging performance when paired with compatible chargers.

A “two-tone paint job” means the vehicle uses two different paint colors, typically to create a contrasting roof/upper section versus the body. The hosts mention it as part of the ID Buzz Tourer/2027 update package.

In this context, “camping mode” is a vehicle feature that keeps the car’s systems running so you can use the interior (like climate control or power) while parked. The hosts contrast it with earlier behavior where the car would shut off unless the driver’s seatbelt was buckled.

Climate control is the car’s system for regulating cabin temperature, usually with sensors and automatic control of heating and air conditioning. Here, the hosts discuss using it while the car is locked so the cabin stays cool for pets.

Remote start lets you start the car’s engine (or enable climate systems) from outside the vehicle, typically using a key fob or a phone app. In this segment, it’s used so the cabin can be cooled before you get in, without leaving the car running while you lock up.

The Lexus ES is a mainstream luxury sedan that’s used here as a comparison for cabin pre-conditioning features. The hosts say they asked whether the Lexus ES has a “dog mode,” and they mention using a smartphone app to lock the car and run climate control/remote start.

The Honda Civic is a mainstream compact car that’s being used here as an example of Honda’s current hybrid system. The hosts say the Civic’s hybrid setup is “mostly a series hybrid,” with a clutch that can couple the engine to the wheels at higher speeds.

The Honda CR-V is a compact SUV used in the segment as an example of Honda’s current hybrid tech. The hosts say the CR-V’s system is mostly series hybrid, but includes a clutch that can connect the engine to the wheels at higher speeds to improve efficiency.

The Honda Accord is a mid-size sedan that the hosts cite as another place Honda uses its current hybrid architecture. They describe it as mostly series-hybrid behavior, with a clutch enabling more direct engine-to-wheels coupling at highway speeds for efficiency.

A series hybrid is a hybrid where the wheels are primarily driven by an electric motor, while the engine mainly generates electricity (or charges the battery). The segment notes the current Honda system is “mostly a series hybrid,” with additional coupling at higher speeds to improve efficiency.

In hybrid drivetrains, a clutch is a mechanical device that can connect or disconnect the engine from the drivetrain. This segment describes a clutch that couples the engine to the wheels at higher speeds to improve efficiency.

The Nissan e-Power system is a hybrid approach where the wheels are driven by an electric motor, while the engine acts primarily as a generator to supply electricity. The hosts use it as a comparison point for how Honda’s upcoming system will be “mostly running on electricity.”

The Acura RDX is a compact luxury SUV that the hosts discuss as a key recipient of Honda’s next-generation hybrid and driver-assistance technology. They mention the current RDX ending production and a new one arriving around 2027, with next-gen ADAS expected in 2028.

ADAS stands for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems—features like adaptive cruise control, lane centering, and automated emergency braking. The segment says Honda’s next-generation ADAS system is expected to arrive on the Acura RDX in 2028.

Level 3 is an autonomy level (per common SAE-style definitions) where the vehicle can handle driving tasks under certain conditions, but the driver must be ready to take over when prompted. The hosts speculate that Level 3 could appear in vehicles like the Acura RDX as Honda’s systems mature.

Solid state batteries are a next-generation battery design that replaces the liquid electrolyte found in most current lithium-ion packs with a solid material. The idea is often higher energy density and improved safety, but the segment notes uncertainty about whether Honda will successfully “crack” the technology in time to matter for near-term products.

K cars are a Japanese vehicle category for small cars with strict size and engine limits, designed to fit urban driving and qualify for favorable taxes/fees in Japan. The segment says Honda is expanding EVs in Japan using this K-car framework, including the new N-Box EV.

The N-Box is a small vehicle associated with Honda’s lineup, and in the episode it’s discussed in the context of China partnerships and EV plans. The mention of solid-state battery work suggests the conversation is about future battery technology and how it may be applied to upcoming vehicles. It’s relevant because it ties a specific model name to broader EV development efforts.

The Honda HR-V is a compact crossover designed for everyday practicality, with a higher seating position than a typical sedan. In the episode, it’s referenced alongside an “overseas version” described as an EV, which highlights how the HR-V name can be used for different market-specific variants. That makes it relevant when discussing global product differences.

A joint venture plant is a manufacturing facility operated as a partnership between two companies, sharing investment and production responsibilities. Here, the hosts say the battery production (or battery assembly) tied to Honda’s hybrid strategy will happen at the joint venture plant in Ohio, which matters because it affects supply and cost.

ASIMO OS is Honda’s operating system software layer being developed for its EVs, intended to coordinate vehicle functions and user/vehicle interactions. The segment says it will be applied to hybrid models, implying shared software foundations across Honda’s electrified lineup.

A domain-based electrical architecture organizes vehicle electronics into separate “domains” (like powertrain, body, and infotainment), each with its own controllers and networking. The segment contrasts this with a zonal architecture approach and suggests Honda will keep the domain-based setup for these hybrid models, affecting system complexity and how components are integrated.

ECUs (electronic control units) are the computers in modern cars that manage specific functions like powertrain control, battery management, and vehicle systems. The segment says Honda is sticking with a domain-based electrical architecture, which results in “more ECUs,” meaning more separate control modules rather than one consolidated system.

Zonal architecture is an automotive electronics design where computing and control are organized by physical zones of the vehicle (front, rear, cabin, etc.), often enabling more centralized control and potentially simpler wiring. The hosts say Honda won’t apply the zonal architecture developed for its Zero Series to these hybrid cars, implying a different integration strategy.

“Zero Series” is Honda’s internal naming for an EV-focused vehicle/electronics platform initiative. In this segment, it’s referenced as the source of the zonal architecture that won’t be carried over to the hybrid models, highlighting that Honda’s EV platform learnings may not transfer 1:1 to hybrids.

Lotus is discussed as a brand that planned an all-electric lineup but then pulled back and shifted toward a mix of plug-in hybrids and BEVs. The hosts also frame the debate around “brand DNA,” meaning whether future electrified models still feel like traditional Lotus cars.

Geely is mentioned as the company that owns Lotus. In this segment, that ownership context is used to explain why Lotus’s electrification strategy and product plans may be influenced by broader corporate direction.

An e-rev powertrain is an electrified setup where the car uses electric drive but relies on a generator to supply energy, rather than only a battery. In this segment, it’s mentioned as the direction for the Lotus Electra after Lotus scaled back its earlier all-EV plans.

The Lotus Esprit is a sports car model associated with Lotus’s lightweight, performance-focused approach. In the episode, it’s referenced as the “old Esprit” that a newer successor is meant to evoke. That kind of mention usually comes up when discussing design direction and brand heritage.

The Lotus Emira is a sports car intended to carry forward Lotus’s performance-focused identity. In the episode, it’s described as the “Amira” (Emira) and tied to the idea of staying close to Lotus brand DNA. It’s brought up as a modern continuation of what people associate with Lotus.

A “900 volt hybrid” refers to a high-voltage electrical system used in an electrified vehicle. Higher voltage can reduce current for the same power, which may allow faster charging and more efficient power delivery (depending on the system design).

BEVs means battery-electric vehicles—cars that run only on electricity stored in a battery pack. The hosts discuss Lotus targeting a certain percentage of BEVs by 2030 as part of its overall electrification plan.

Bugatti is referenced as a brand that’s taking a pragmatic stance on electrification because of its small scale and customer base. The point in this segment is that some ultra-low-volume brands may not prioritize EV transitions the same way mass-market automakers do.

The Tesla Model X is a battery-electric SUV from Tesla. In this segment, it’s referenced alongside the Model S to describe how early Supercharger availability could mean longer waits for charging.

The Tesla Model S is a battery-electric sedan from Tesla, known for being one of the brand’s early mainstream EVs. The hosts mention it to illustrate how, in the early days of Tesla charging, drivers sometimes had to wait much longer for Superchargers.

A virtual wait list is an app-based queue that replaces physical line behavior at a charging site. The idea is to reduce conflicts by letting drivers wait digitally and arrive only when it’s their turn.

Charging ports are the individual plug points at a charging station where a single vehicle can connect. The hosts cite totals in terms of locations and charging ports to show how many cars can charge at once.

The Dodge Charger is a performance-oriented sedan/coupe-style car known for powerful engines and a muscular design. It’s commonly referenced in driving conversations because it’s associated with aggressive acceleration and street presence. Here, it’s mentioned in a story about another driver cutting someone off.

Stellantis is a major automaker formed from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles and PSA Group. In this segment, the hosts discuss Stellantis Investor Day, where the company lays out its strategy for turning the business around and planning future products.

Chrysler is one of Stellantis’s brands. The hosts say Chrysler currently has only one main nameplate for sale, while other Chrysler-branded models (like the Pacifica) are discussed as the practical reality of the lineup.

The Ram 1500 is a full-size pickup truck, and the hosts specifically praise its ride quality—describing it as “the least truck-like.” That’s a common enthusiast talking point because the 1500 is often tuned for comfort compared with more work-focused trucks.

The Dodge Ram 1500 is a full-size pickup truck known for being a popular choice for buyers who want a balance of capability and comfort. It’s brought up in the episode because the speaker says they want a Ram 1500 and really likes it. That makes it relevant to a discussion about what kind of truck fits their needs.

Automakers periodically hold dealer meetings to show what’s coming next—often months or years before customer sales begin. In this segment, the hosts describe how dealers were shown a future Chrysler product concept, which then fueled speculation.