Magnus Walker on EVs, Porsches, and the Future of Driving
About this episode
Magnus Walker joins the hosts to discuss his unique journey from fashion to becoming a Porsche icon, sharing insights on electric vehicles and their role in the automotive future. He reflects on his experiences with various EVs, including the challenges of long-distance travel and the evolution of charging infrastructure. The conversation also touches on the importance of branding in the automotive industry, particularly in relation to Porsche's marketing strategies and the impact of rising car prices. Walker's passion for cars and storytelling shines through as he talks about his upcoming projects, including a coffee table book on his Porsche collection.
In this episode of The InEVitable by MotorTrend, hosts Ed Loh and Jonny Lieberman sit down with the one and only Magnus Walker—fashion icon, Porsche collector, designer, and automotive outlaw. Magnus opens up about his love-hate relationship with EVs, why Porsche’s electric strategy might be backfiring, and what the brand needs to do to stay true to its roots. He also shares behind-the-scenes stories about his TWR Supercat project, working with Pininfarina, and his upcoming Porsche book collaboration with Hannah Elliott. From racing at Goodwood to collaborating with design houses, Magnus brings his unfiltered takes on branding, car culture, motorsport, and the future of driving passion.
tuning
"...He's known throughout all of Cardom as the guy who tunes, has a very exceptional collection..."
Tuning is when you change parts of a car to make it go faster or run better. It can involve adjusting the engine or adding new parts.
Tuning refers to the process of modifying a vehicle's engine or other components to enhance performance, handling, or efficiency. This can involve adjusting the engine's fuel mixture, timing, or even upgrading parts for better output.
Porsche community
"And so he's been this legend in the Porsche community. But as you're going to see, he's really branching out and he's really becoming..."
The Porsche community is made up of people who love Porsche cars. They often talk about their favorite models, attend events, and share their experiences with each other.
The Porsche community refers to the group of enthusiasts, collectors, and fans who share a passion for Porsche vehicles. This community often engages in events, discussions, and activities centered around Porsche cars.
air-cooled
"He was probably one of the first guys to identify the air cool. He always tells me what he paid for a car versus what they're worth."
Air-cooled engines don't use water or antifreeze to stay cool. Instead, they rely on air flowing around them to keep from overheating, which is a feature found in many older Porsche cars.
Air-cooled engines use air to dissipate heat instead of a liquid coolant. This design is common in older Porsche models, particularly the classic 911s, and is valued for its simplicity and lightweight characteristics.
Porsche 911
"taking production away from what is really profitable, the 9-11 and moving that capacity over to a production line for the Taycan..."
The Porsche 911 is a famous sports car that has been around for many years. It's known for being fast and fun to drive, making it very popular among car enthusiasts.
The Porsche 911 is a renowned sports car known for its distinctive design and performance. It has been a flagship model for Porsche since its introduction in 1964, often celebrated for its engineering and driving experience.
Porsche Taycan
"and moving that capacity over to a production line for the Taycan and investing a lot of money into a Taycan production..."
The Porsche Taycan is a new electric car from Porsche. It's designed to be fast and luxurious, showing that the company is moving into electric vehicles.
The Porsche Taycan is an all-electric luxury sports sedan that combines performance with advanced technology. It represents Porsche's shift towards electric mobility while maintaining the brand's performance heritage.
Porsche Macan
"along with an electric Macan and Macan back."
The Porsche Macan is a smaller SUV from Porsche. It's sporty and designed for people who want a luxury vehicle that can handle different types of driving.
The Porsche Macan is a compact luxury SUV that offers sporty performance and versatility. It is designed to appeal to those looking for a smaller SUV with the performance characteristics typical of Porsche vehicles.
Porsche Cayennes
"but the electric Cayenne's coming."
The Porsche Cayenne is a larger SUV from Porsche that is designed to be both practical and sporty. It's popular among those who want a luxury vehicle with good performance.
The Porsche Cayenne is a midsize luxury SUV that combines the practicality of an SUV with the performance characteristics of a sports car. It has been a key model for Porsche since its introduction in 2002.
dieselgate
"I guess it maybe goes back to diesel gate and then all of a sudden, you know, we've got a make up"
Dieselgate was a big scandal where a car company was caught cheating on emissions tests for their diesel cars. It caused a lot of problems for the company and the industry as a whole.
Dieselgate refers to the emissions scandal involving Volkswagen Group, where it was found that the company had installed software in diesel vehicles to cheat emissions tests. This scandal had widespread implications for the automotive industry.
EV vehicle
"...commuting and an EV vehicle is great at that. Might as well be autonomous at that point."
An EV vehicle is a car that runs on electricity instead of gas. They are often quieter and better for the environment because they don't produce exhaust fumes.
An EV vehicle, or electric vehicle, is powered entirely by electricity rather than gasoline or diesel. This type of vehicle is known for its efficiency and lower environmental impact compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles.
autonomous
"...Might as well be autonomous at that point. But if you want to do what Hannah and I did a couple of weeks ago..."
Autonomous means that a car can drive itself without needing a person to control it. These cars use special technology to navigate and make decisions on the road.
Autonomous vehicles are capable of driving themselves without human intervention, using a combination of sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence. This technology is still being developed and tested in various forms.
battery capacity
"...under 50 percent of battery capacity. And I've got 18 miles and my goal was to go all the way to Rightwood..."
Battery capacity is how much energy a battery can hold. In electric cars, it affects how far you can drive before needing to recharge.
Battery capacity refers to the amount of energy a battery can store, typically measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). It determines how far an electric vehicle can travel on a single charge.
charging station
"...there's not a charging station at Rightwood. Well, there wasn't seven years ago..."
A charging station is a place where you can plug in and recharge an electric car's battery. Not all areas have them, so planning is important for long trips.
A charging station is a location where electric vehicles can recharge their batteries. These stations can vary in charging speed and availability.
Audi Etron
"...you have the Audi e-tron, same type of thing. That was infamous..."
The Audi e-tron is a luxury electric SUV made by Audi. It has a lot of modern technology and is designed to be both comfortable and efficient.
The Audi e-tron is an all-electric SUV that combines luxury with advanced technology, offering a range of features designed for efficiency and performance. It's known for its spacious interior and high-tech infotainment system.
Fiat 500
"The positive was perhaps, you know, the Fiat 500 electric car because my other beef with electric cars is they're all extremely big..."
The Fiat 500 electric car is a small, battery-powered car that's easier to drive in tight city spaces compared to larger electric vehicles.
The Fiat 500 electric car is a compact electric vehicle that offers a smaller footprint compared to many other electric cars, making it suitable for urban environments.
Automobili Pininfarina Battista
"But the positive is recently I drove the Automobilia Pinaforena Batista and I took it again on our favorite road."
The Automobili Pininfarina Battista is a very high-end electric sports car that is super fast and has a beautiful design, made for people who want the best in electric cars.
The Automobili Pininfarina Battista is a luxury electric hypercar known for its high performance and stunning design, representing the pinnacle of electric vehicle technology.
2000 horsepower
"...you hear this 2000 horsepower all electric hypercar. Right. With five different modes. And it's intimidating to begin with these guys 2000 horsepower."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. When someone says a car has 2000 horsepower, it means the car can go really fast and accelerate quickly.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, commonly used to describe the output of engines. In this context, 2000 horsepower indicates an extremely high-performance vehicle, likely capable of impressive acceleration and speed.
all electric hypercar
"...you hear this 2000 horsepower all electric hypercar. Right. With five different modes. And it's intimidating to begin with these guys 2000 horsepower."
An all electric hypercar is a super-fast car that doesn't use gas; it runs on electricity instead. These cars can go really fast right away because electric motors provide power instantly.
An all electric hypercar is a high-performance vehicle that runs entirely on electric power, often featuring advanced technology and design. These cars are known for their incredible speed and acceleration due to the instant torque provided by electric motors.
Automobilia Pininfarina
"...I ended up collaborating with Automobilia Pinaforena"
Pininfarina is a famous company in Italy that designs cars. They are known for making beautiful and high-performance vehicles.
Pininfarina is a renowned Italian design firm known for its work in automotive design. They have collaborated with various manufacturers to create iconic and luxurious vehicles, often blending performance with aesthetic appeal.
Pininfarina Battista
"on this all electric one of one Batista. And to me, it was like, how did I end up in this position? Because I remember when that car debuted at the Geneva Auto Show in 2018."
The Pininfarina Battista is a super high-end electric car that was first shown to the public in 2018. It's very rare and is designed to be extremely fast and stylish.
The Pininfarina Battista is an all-electric hypercar that debuted at the Geneva Auto Show in 2018. It is known for its stunning design and high performance, making it one of the most exclusive electric vehicles in the world.
Audi Rs Etron Gt
"Like I like just to fast forward a few years from your initial Taycan experience like yesterday, I had the new RS e-tron GT."
The Audi RS e-tron GT is a fast electric car made by Audi. It's designed to be both luxurious and sporty, similar to other high-end cars but runs on electricity.
The Audi RS e-tron GT is a high-performance electric vehicle that combines luxury with sportiness. It features a powerful electric drivetrain and advanced technology, making it a competitor in the electric sports car segment.
quarter mile
"...Motortrain got it to a quarter mile in 9.9 seconds, which, you know, 911 Turbo S is 10 to it."
The quarter mile is a distance used in racing to see how fast a car can go. It's like a short race to test how quickly a car can accelerate.
The quarter mile is a standard drag racing distance of 1,320 feet, used to measure a vehicle's acceleration performance. It's a common benchmark for performance cars to showcase their speed.
Nürburgring
"...the fastest lap around the Nurburgring is from some Xiaomi Su seven ultra, right?"
The Nürburgring is a well-known racetrack in Germany where many car manufacturers test their cars. It's famous for being very difficult and is a place where fast cars try to set record times.
The Nürburgring is a famous racetrack in Germany known for its challenging layout and is often used for testing and racing high-performance cars. It's considered a benchmark for automotive performance.
Xiaomi Su 7 Ultra
"...the fastest lap around the Nurburgring is from some Xiaomi Su seven ultra, right?"
The Xiaomi Su 7 Ultra is a fast car made by Xiaomi, a company better known for smartphones. It's notable for setting a record lap time at a famous racetrack called the Nürburgring.
The Xiaomi Su 7 Ultra is a performance car that has gained attention for its impressive speed, including a record lap time at the Nürburgring. Xiaomi, primarily known for electronics, is venturing into the automotive industry with this model.
electric cars
"...what I like about electric cars actually is, they're actually quiet."
Electric cars are cars that run on electricity instead of gas. They are usually quieter and can be better for the environment because they don't produce exhaust fumes.
Electric cars are vehicles powered entirely by electricity, using electric motors instead of internal combustion engines. They are known for being quieter and more environmentally friendly compared to traditional gasoline-powered cars.
Acropovic exhaust
"...my pet peeve is usually BMW, Mercedes owners with loud Acropovic exhaust making all types of noise, but they're doing 30 miles an hour."
Acropovic is a company that makes special exhaust systems for cars. These exhausts can make cars sound louder and more powerful, which some people really like.
Acropovic is a brand known for high-performance exhaust systems that enhance the sound and performance of vehicles. Their exhausts are often used by car enthusiasts looking to improve the auditory experience of their cars.
V8 engine
"Yeah, throaty V8s and, you know, like high revving things and turbos, you know, spooling and popping and whistling sound great."
A V8 engine has eight cylinders arranged in a V shape, which helps it produce a lot of power. It's commonly found in sports cars and trucks.
A V8 engine is an eight-cylinder engine configuration where the cylinders are arranged in a V shape. This design typically provides a good balance of power and smoothness, making it popular in performance and luxury vehicles.
turbo
"...like high revving things and turbos, you know, spooling and popping and whistling sound great."
A turbo is a part that helps an engine get more air, which makes it more powerful. It's often used in cars to boost performance without needing a bigger engine.
A turbo, or turbocharger, is a device that forces more air into the engine's combustion chamber, allowing it to burn more fuel and produce more power. This results in increased performance without significantly increasing engine size.
suspension
"...there's a different type of emotion where you're hearing, you know, suspension squeak, tire squeak..."
The suspension is what connects the car to its wheels and helps it handle bumps in the road. It makes the ride smoother and helps the car stay stable while driving.
The suspension system of a vehicle includes components like springs, shock absorbers, and linkages that connect the vehicle to its wheels. It plays a crucial role in ride comfort and handling by absorbing bumps and maintaining tire contact with the road.
Ford Gtd
"... Watkins Glen with my buddy Camming Room and the Ford GTD last weekend and the Gunna Coda and the racing t..."
The Ford GT is a super-fast sports car that looks really cool and is built for racing. It's a modern version of a famous car from the past that won a lot of races.
The Ford GT is a high-performance sports car that pays homage to the legendary Ford GT40 race car from the 1960s. Known for its striking design and powerful engine, it has become a symbol of American automotive engineering.
Dakar
"go conquer off road and do some sort of Dakar type of thing."
The Dakar is a famous off-road race where vehicles drive through tough landscapes like deserts and mountains. It's known for being very challenging and adventurous.
The Dakar Rally is an annual off-road endurance event that takes place in various locations around the world. It features a variety of vehicles, including cars, trucks, and motorcycles, competing over challenging terrains.
Porsche Panamera
"...n M five up to Monterey. I also happen to take a Panamera, you know, Turbo S E hybrid. M five is a better ..."
The Porsche Panamera is a fancy four-door car that drives like a sports car. It's designed for people who want both speed and comfort in a stylish package.
The Porsche Panamera is a luxury four-door sedan that blends sports car performance with the comfort of a high-end vehicle. Since its debut in 2009, it has been recognized for its powerful engine options and spacious interior.
Porsche 944
"...orsche VW Audi, right? And that evolved into the 944. But the 968, three liter, four cylinder, most s..."
The Porsche 944 is a classic sports car from the 80s that is known for being fun to drive and not as expensive as some other Porsches. It's a great option for those who want a sporty car without breaking the bank.
The Porsche 944 is a sports car produced in the 1980s and early 1990s, known for its balanced handling and affordability compared to other Porsche models. It played a significant role in expanding Porsche's lineup and appealing to a broader audience.
Porsche Cayman
"...ike that. What about what about first generation Cayman? The Cayman, Cayman S. Are you are you a Cayman ..."
The Porsche Cayman is a small, sporty car that is fun to drive and has a great reputation for handling well. It's like a more affordable version of the famous Porsche 911, but still very exciting.
The Porsche Cayman is a mid-engine sports car that offers a balance of performance and handling, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts. First introduced in the mid-2000s, it is often praised for its precise steering and agile dynamics.
Bugatti Veyron
"...nly two thousand. You know, they're building the Veyron, they're building the Peyton, they're building t..."
The Bugatti Veyron is an extremely fast and expensive sports car that is known for being one of the quickest cars ever made. It's a symbol of luxury and high performance.
The Bugatti Veyron is a high-performance supercar that was produced in the mid-2000s, famous for its incredible speed and engineering excellence. It was one of the fastest production cars in the world and is often discussed for its luxury and technological innovations.
Nissan Pathfinder
"...t like at least double lockers. Yeah, that was a pathfinder. Yeah. The the OG Mercedes ML also really, reall..."
The Nissan Pathfinder is a family-friendly SUV that can carry a lot of people and gear. It's built to handle rough roads and is great for outdoor adventures.
The Nissan Pathfinder is a mid-size SUV that has been in production since the 1980s, known for its versatility and off-road capabilities. It has evolved over the years to offer a family-friendly interior and advanced safety features.
Porsche Boxster
"I'd say no one's asking me. But I'd say the 987 Boxster Boxster S. To me, that is such a like 20 years o..."
The Porsche Boxster is a small, two-seater car that you can drive with the top down. It's designed to be fun and sporty, making it a popular choice for people who love driving.
The Porsche Boxster is a two-seat convertible that combines luxury with sporty performance. Launched in the late 1990s, it has become known for its excellent handling and open-top driving experience.
Jaguar Xjs
"And so the T.W.R. Bathurst is a Jag XJS. So cool. But T.W.R. also developed and raced"
The Jaguar XJ-S is a stylish sports car that was made for long drives and comfort. It has a powerful engine and a unique look that many people admire.
The Jaguar XJ-S is a grand tourer produced from the late 1970s to the 1990s, known for its distinctive design and powerful V12 engine. It is celebrated for its blend of performance and elegance.
Jaguar XJR
"...approached T.W.R. to help develop the XJ220, the XJR, the XJ15 and Jag's last win at Le Mans in 1988 ..."
The Jaguar XJR is a faster and sportier version of the regular Jaguar XJ. It's designed for people who want a luxurious car that also feels exciting to drive.
The Jaguar XJR is a high-performance version of the XJ series, known for its powerful supercharged engine and sporty handling. It combines luxury with performance, making it a standout in the luxury sedan market.
Jaguar XJ220
"So Jag approached T.W.R. to help develop the XJ220, the XJR, the XJ15 and Jag's last win at Le Mans..."
Jaguar Xj6S
"...uy. I've owned all three generations of E-types, XJ6s. I did this thing for how you to call the next b..."
The Jaguar XJ6 is a stylish and comfortable car that was made for people who enjoy luxury. It's known for being smooth to drive and has a classic look that many people love.
The Jaguar XJ6 is a luxury sedan that was produced from the 1960s to the 1990s, known for its elegant design and smooth ride. It represents Jaguar's commitment to combining performance with luxury and has a loyal following among classic car enthusiasts.
Jaguar Etypes
"So how I got involved is, ironically, I've always been a Jag guy. I've owned all three generations of E-types, XJ6s. I did this thing for how you to call the next big thing,"
Ferrari 308 GTB
"...i. That's true. At that time, I think I had that 308 GTB for the Bertone, the Numpen. The Numpen, if I re..."
The Ferrari 308 GTB is a famous sports car that looks really cool and is fun to drive. It's known for being fast and is loved by car collectors.
The Ferrari 308 GTB is a classic sports car produced in the 1970s and 1980s, known for its iconic design and mid-engine layout. It is often celebrated for its performance and has a strong following among collectors.
Mercury Montereys
"I never met him until that one misty morning on a Friday of Monterey's Starix. And so I'm putting this film together for Goodyear"
The Mercury Monterey is a big car that was made for comfort and space. It's a classic American vehicle that many people remember fondly from the past.
The Mercury Monterey was a full-size car produced by Mercury from the 1950s to the early 2000s, known for its spacious interior and classic American styling. It represents a bygone era of large, comfortable vehicles.
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