News: Solid States, Bad News, and Kill Switches
About this episode
The discussion dives into the future of electric vehicles, focusing on the potential of solid state batteries. With winter's impact on EV performance, the hosts explore the advantages of solid state technology, such as faster charging and better efficiency. They welcome Dr. Eric Walksman, a leading researcher in the field, who shares insights on the challenges of scaling production and the evolution of battery technology. The conversation also touches on the nostalgic aspects of car culture and the shift from traditional combustion engines to electric vehicles.
We talked to Dr. Eric Wachsman to get the real story on solid state batteries. California wants to tax you by the mile and track your car to do it. The House voted to keep the federal kill switch mandate alive. We break down how the tech works and why the architecture already exists.
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charging stations
"The charging stations. There was the charging stations. They're all lined up there and then there's a snake of Tesla's lined up around the corner"
Charging stations are places where electric cars can get power to run. Just like gas stations for regular cars, these stations help electric cars recharge their batteries.
Charging stations are facilities where electric vehicles (EVs) can recharge their batteries. They can vary in charging speed and technology, with some offering fast charging options.
EV
"...and I don't even know where the other EV people go. I mean, they go somewhere."
EV means electric vehicle, which is a car that runs on electricity instead of gas. They are better for the environment and can save money on fuel.
EV stands for electric vehicle, which is a type of vehicle that runs entirely on electricity instead of gasoline or diesel. They are becoming increasingly popular due to their environmental benefits and lower operating costs.
ChargePoint
"They probably go to like a charge point station"
ChargePoint is a company that has many places where electric cars can charge their batteries. They help make it easier for people to find power for their electric cars.
ChargePoint is a network of charging stations for electric vehicles, providing access to charging infrastructure across various locations. They offer different types of chargers to accommodate various EV models.
Dodge Charger
"...t cold? So they just have to be hooked up to the charger. Okay."
The Dodge Charger is a big car that looks sporty and can go really fast. People like it because it has a lot of power and is fun to drive, even though it's also a four-door car that can fit the whole family.
The Dodge Charger is a full-size sedan known for its powerful engine options and muscular styling. It has a strong following among car enthusiasts for its performance capabilities and retro-inspired design, making it a popular choice for those seeking a blend of practicality and sportiness.
solid state batteries
"As a result, everybody wants solid state batteries because they're fine in the cold. They charge up in five minutes."
Solid state batteries are a newer kind of battery that use solid materials instead of liquids. They can charge faster and work better in cold weather compared to regular batteries.
Solid state batteries are a type of battery technology that uses solid electrodes and a solid electrolyte, as opposed to the liquid or gel electrolytes found in traditional lithium-ion batteries. They are known for their potential to offer higher energy density, faster charging times, and improved safety, especially in extreme temperatures.
solid state battery
"If we could just get to solid state batteries. I'll admit, I don't even really understand."
A solid state battery is a new kind of battery that uses solid materials instead of liquids. This makes them safer and potentially better for powering electric vehicles.
A solid state battery is a type of battery technology that uses a solid electrolyte instead of a liquid one. This can lead to higher energy density, faster charging times, and improved safety compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries.
energy density
"...energy density of 400 watt hours per kilogram. It's great. It's normal. Current lithium ion runs are around 200 to 300."
Energy density is how much energy a battery can hold compared to its size or weight. A higher energy density means the battery can power a vehicle longer without being too heavy.
Energy density refers to the amount of energy stored in a given volume or mass of a battery. Higher energy density means a battery can store more energy for the same weight or size, which is crucial for electric vehicles.
lithium-ion battery
"...Current lithium ion runs are around 200 to 300. Okay. Full charge, five minutes."
Lithium-ion batteries are the kind of batteries you find in many electric cars and smartphones. They are good at storing energy but can take a while to charge and wear out over time.
Lithium-ion batteries are a type of rechargeable battery commonly used in electric vehicles and portable electronics. They are known for their high energy density and efficiency, but have limitations in terms of charging speed and lifespan.
Ford F150
"My grandpa's F-150 had that. It's like the saddle tank, right?"
The Ford F-150 is a big truck that many people use for work or hauling things. It's known for being tough and can be customized in many ways.
The Ford F-150 is a full-size pickup truck known for its durability and versatility. It's popular for both work and personal use, often featuring various configurations and options to suit different needs.
Verge Motorcycles
"...the first vehicle using the technology from Donut Labs is Verge Motorcycles. And it says it's TS Pro will be the first production vehicle..."
Verge Motorcycles makes electric bikes that are different from regular motorcycles. They use new technology to make their bikes faster and more efficient.
Verge Motorcycles is a manufacturer known for its innovative electric motorcycles, particularly focusing on unique designs and advanced technology. They aim to push the boundaries of electric vehicle performance and design.
Dodge Magnum
"...k in high school had my 68 Dodge Charger, the 440 Magnum. There we go."
The Dodge Magnum is a big car that looks like a wagon but can go really fast, kind of like a muscle car. It's good for people who need space for family or stuff but still want something exciting to drive.
The Dodge Magnum is a mid-size station wagon that combines the practicality of a wagon with the performance of a muscle car. It is often discussed for its unique design and powerful engine options, appealing to those who want versatility without sacrificing performance.
440 Magnum
"So going back in high school had my 68 Dodge Charger, the 440 Magnum."
The 440 Magnum is a powerful engine that was used in some classic cars, making them very fast and strong. It's known for giving cars a lot of horsepower.
The 440 Magnum is a high-performance V8 engine produced by Chrysler, known for its power and torque. It was popular in muscle cars during the late 1960s and early 1970s, including the Dodge Charger.
Datsun 240Z
"And so I went from there to a last year, the Datsun 240Z, which I put your triple Weber's on and a header and lower Tony shocks."
The Datsun 240Z is a well-known sports car from the 1970s. It's loved for being fun to drive and has a classic design.
The Datsun 240Z is a classic sports car that was produced in the early 1970s. It is known for its lightweight design and sporty performance, making it a popular choice among car enthusiasts.
BMW M3
"And then from there to BMW M3 convertible, which actually I didn't do anything with that."
The BMW M3 Convertible is a sporty car that you can drive with the top down. It's known for being fast and fun to drive.
The BMW M3 Convertible is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series, known for its sporty handling and powerful engine. The convertible variant adds an open-top driving experience.
Tesla Model
"Yeah. And then my first Tesla model as performance. But now I'm finally, I think I'v..."
The Tesla Model Y is a type of car that runs on electricity instead of gas, which is better for the environment. It's like a small SUV, which means it has more space inside for people and stuff, and it comes with cool tech features that help you drive.
The Tesla Model Y is an all-electric compact SUV that offers impressive range, advanced technology, and spacious interior. It's significant for its role in popularizing electric vehicles and features like Autopilot, making it a topic of interest in discussions about the future of transportation.
Tesla Model S Performance
"And then my first Tesla model as performance."
The Tesla Model S Performance is a fast electric car that can go from 0 to 60 mph very quickly. It's known for its high-tech features and being environmentally friendly.
The Tesla Model S Performance is a high-performance electric sedan known for its rapid acceleration and advanced technology. It represents a significant shift towards electric vehicles in the automotive industry.
Porsche Taycan
"I've got my Porsche take in, which is all electric. That thing handles like a dream as a Porsche does, accelerates like crazy."
The Porsche Taycan is a high-performance electric car that offers a smooth and fast driving experience. It's designed to be both luxurious and efficient, making it a popular choice among electric vehicles.
The Porsche Taycan is an all-electric luxury sedan that combines performance with advanced technology. It is known for its impressive acceleration and handling, characteristic of the Porsche brand.
electric vehicle
"I've got my Porsche take in, which is all electric. That thing handles like a dream as a Porsche does, accelerates like crazy."
An electric vehicle is a type of car that runs on electricity instead of gasoline. This means it can be better for the environment and can save money on fuel.
An electric vehicle (EV) is a car that is powered entirely or partially by electricity, using electric motors instead of traditional internal combustion engines. EVs are known for being more environmentally friendly and often have lower operating costs.
side-draft carburetor
"I guess the question that popped up in my mind is, what's harder getting a side-draft DCUE carburetor to run right or developing a solid state battery? Because I mean, I've got books here, right here. I've read this book probably about 50 times. I'm still trying to figure out how to master the side-draft carburetor."
A side-draft carburetor is a part of the engine that mixes air and fuel for combustion. It's called 'side-draft' because it pulls air in from the side, which can make it trickier to adjust than other types.
A side-draft carburetor is a type of carburetor that draws air from the side rather than from above, allowing for a more compact design, often used in performance applications. Tuning these carburetors can be challenging due to their sensitivity to adjustments and airflow.
fuel injection
"That was sort of that transition going from the carbureted cars to the fuel injection to all electric."
Fuel injection is a way to get fuel into an engine. Instead of using a carburetor, it sprays fuel directly into the engine, which helps it run better and use less fuel.
Fuel injection is a system that delivers fuel into the combustion chamber of an engine, replacing carburetors in many modern vehicles. It allows for more precise control of the fuel-air mixture, improving efficiency and performance.
engine
"But getting under the hood, you can't get under the hood because there's no engine. It does make me sad because an engine is a beautiful thing."
An engine is what makes a car move. It burns fuel to create power that turns the wheels and makes the car go.
An engine is a machine that converts fuel into mechanical energy, powering the vehicle. It is often considered the heart of the car, responsible for its performance and driving experience.
lithium-ion batteries
"...three times the energy density of your conventional lithium-ion batteries. We have to scale the manufacturing."
Lithium-ion batteries are the type of batteries you find in many devices like smartphones and electric cars. They are popular because they can hold a lot of energy and recharge quickly.
Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable batteries that use lithium ions as a key component of their electrochemistry. They are widely used in consumer electronics and electric vehicles due to their high energy density and efficiency.
100 kilowatt hour battery
"...for one 100 kilowatt hour battery that goes into Tesla, I can make thousands and thousands of batteries that will go in this product."
A 100 kilowatt hour battery is a big battery used in electric cars. It tells you how much energy the battery can hold, which helps determine how far the car can go on a single charge.
A 100 kilowatt hour (kWh) battery is a measurement of energy storage capacity, commonly used in electric vehicles. It indicates how much energy the battery can store and directly affects the vehicle's range.
Peugeot iOn
"...e, your negative and positive electrode. And the ions, in this case lithium, go back and forth between ..."
The Peugeot iOn is a tiny car that runs on electricity, which means it doesn't pollute the air. It's perfect for driving around the city because it's small and easy to park.
The Peugeot iOn is a small electric car designed for urban driving, offering zero emissions and compact dimensions. It is significant in discussions about electric vehicles and sustainable transportation solutions.
fuel efficiency
"...We'll collect $31 billion less in fuel excise tax revenue due to increased fuel efficiency..."
Fuel efficiency is a measure of how far a car can go on a certain amount of fuel. Cars that are more fuel-efficient use less gas to travel the same distance, which saves money and is better for the environment.
Fuel efficiency refers to how effectively a vehicle uses fuel to travel a certain distance. Higher fuel efficiency means a vehicle can travel further on less fuel, which is beneficial for both the environment and the owner's wallet.
EVs
"...in the proliferation of Z EVs over the next decade. That's a $31 billion hole in road funding."
EVs stands for electric vehicles, which are cars that run on electricity instead of gas. They are often seen as better for the environment because they produce fewer emissions.
EVs, or electric vehicles, are cars that are powered entirely or partially by electricity instead of gasoline or diesel. They are becoming more popular due to their potential for lower emissions and fuel costs.
Volkswagen Golf
"...but they're certainly not going to do it on your 95 Golf K3 that you inherited from your grandma."
The Volkswagen Golf is a small car that many people like because it's easy to drive and has a lot of space inside. The 1995 version is from an earlier generation, which many fans still enjoy today.
The Volkswagen Golf is a compact car that has been popular for decades, known for its practicality and performance. The 1995 model is part of the third generation of the Golf, which is often appreciated for its solid build quality and driving dynamics.
OBD2
"So that's going to be OBD2 and newer. I would think like 98, 99 and newer."
OBD2 is a system in cars that helps mechanics and devices talk to the car's computer. It gives important information about how the car is running and can help find problems.
OBD2 stands for On-Board Diagnostics II, a standardized system that allows external devices to communicate with a vehicle's engine control unit (ECU). It provides access to various vehicle data, including emissions and performance metrics, making it essential for diagnostics and monitoring.
kill switch mandate
"They are going to... We're going to get into the kill switch mandate. I know we're getting into the kill switch."
A kill switch is a feature that can turn off a car remotely. If a car doesn't meet certain rules, it can be locked out and won't start until the issue is resolved.
A kill switch mandate refers to regulations that require vehicles to have a mechanism that can disable the vehicle remotely, often for safety or compliance purposes. This can be used to prevent theft or ensure that vehicles meet certain operational standards.
register a vehicle
"...but then I'm not going to register it and I'm just going to drive it around on my property."
Registering a vehicle means telling the government that you own it, so they can give you license plates and keep track of it. It's usually required to drive on public roads.
Registering a vehicle is the process of officially recording a vehicle with the government, which typically involves paying fees and obtaining license plates. This is necessary for legal road use.
Haka Polita
"...the actual inventor of the winter tire itself with their Haka Polita line. They also have the Surpass AS01, their newest model of tire..."
Haka Polita is a type of winter tire made by Nokian that helps cars drive safely on snow and ice.
The Haka Polita is a line of winter tires developed by Nokian, designed to provide superior grip and control in snowy and icy conditions. It is recognized for its performance and safety features in harsh winter weather.
Surpass AS01
"...They also have the Surpass AS01, their newest model of tire, which is a high performance all season tire specifically for drivers..."
Surpass AS01 is a type of tire made by Nokian that works well in different weather conditions, helping cars perform better without getting stuck.
The Surpass AS01 is a high-performance all-season tire from Nokian, designed for drivers who want excellent grip and handling without sacrificing performance in various weather conditions. It aims to provide the benefits of a performance tire while maintaining versatility.
BMW IX3
"The new round L debuted on the new 2027 IX3, which I do, I don't even know what that is."
The BMW IX3 is an electric version of BMW's popular SUV. It's designed to be eco-friendly while still offering the luxury and performance that BMW is known for.
The BMW IX3 is an electric SUV that represents BMW's entry into the electric vehicle market. It is part of their growing lineup of electric and hybrid vehicles, showcasing their commitment to sustainability and innovation.
roundel
"The roundel dates back to the early 1920s, when two aircraft companies merged. The blue and white come from the Bavarian flag, not a spinning propeller, despite that old advertisement suggested it."
The roundel is the circular logo of BMW. It has blue and white sections and represents the region in Germany where BMW was founded.
The roundel is the iconic logo of BMW, consisting of a circular design with blue and white quadrants. It symbolizes the company's Bavarian heritage and has remained largely unchanged since its inception.
M badge
"The M badge is also being updated, though BMW says that change will be just as subtle."
The M badge is a special logo used by BMW to show that a car is a high-performance version. These cars are designed to be faster and more fun to drive than regular BMWs.
The M badge signifies BMW's high-performance models, known for their enhanced power, handling, and sporty features. It's a mark of distinction that indicates a vehicle has been engineered for performance.
Mazda Miata
"Yes. The Mazda Miata now starts above 30 grand for the first time and..."
Mazda is a car company that makes cars that are fun to drive and look nice. One of their popular cars is the Miata, which is a small, sporty car that many people enjoy because it's easy to handle.
Mazda is a Japanese automaker known for producing vehicles that emphasize driving enjoyment and stylish design. The brand is often discussed for its sporty models like the Mazda MX-5 Miata, which has a reputation for being fun to drive and affordable.
Chevrolet Corvette
"... $13,800, less than half the price of that year's Corvette, which was $32,000."
The Chevrolet Corvette is a fast and stylish sports car that many people dream of owning. It's special because it offers a lot of power and good looks without being as expensive as some other super fancy cars.
The Chevrolet Corvette is an iconic American sports car known for its high performance, sleek design, and affordability compared to other supercars. It has a long history and is often discussed for its status as a symbol of American automotive engineering.
Toyota Gr86
"...mains the cheapest sports car on the market. The GR86 starts at blah, blah, who cares? All right."
The Toyota GR 86 is a small, sporty car that is made for people who love to drive. It's not too expensive and is known for being really fun to handle on the road.
The Toyota GR 86 is a lightweight sports coupe designed for driving enthusiasts, offering a balanced chassis and rear-wheel drive layout. It's celebrated for its affordability and engaging driving experience, making it a popular choice among those looking for a fun, budget-friendly sports car.
Mazda Rx7
"You don't buy a Miata. The old RX7 had had some. Mazda."
The Mazda RX-7 is a special sports car that uses a different kind of engine called a rotary engine, which makes it lightweight and fast. Many car fans love it because it's fun to drive and has a unique design.
The Mazda RX-7 is a sports car famous for its unique rotary engine and lightweight design, which contribute to its agile handling. It is often discussed for its cult following among car enthusiasts and its role in the history of performance cars.
Cadillac CT4
"...give you the one that surprises me, the Cadillac CT4 and CT5 blackling. Those are surprising."
The Cadillac CT4 is a smaller luxury car that is stylish and has nice features. It's made for people who want a fancy car that is also fun to drive.
The Cadillac CT4 is a compact luxury sedan that combines sporty performance with upscale features. It is often discussed for its role in Cadillac's efforts to attract younger buyers while maintaining the brand's reputation for luxury.
Cadillac CT5
"... the one that surprises me, the Cadillac CT4 and CT5 blackling. Those are surprising."
The Cadillac CT5 is a fancy car that is comfortable and has a lot of high-tech features. It's made for people who want a nice ride with a bit of luxury.
The Cadillac CT5 is a luxury sedan that offers a blend of performance, technology, and comfort. It is significant for its role in Cadillac's lineup as a competitor to other luxury brands, often discussed for its stylish design and advanced features.
Hyundai Elantra
"I would even know what's on there. Hyundai Elantra N manual. Honda Civic Type R manual."
The Hyundai Elantra is a small car that is good for everyday driving because it's affordable and reliable. It's a great option for anyone looking for a car that won't break the bank.
The Hyundai Elantra is a compact sedan known for its value, reliability, and modern design. It has gained popularity for its affordability and extensive warranty, making it a practical choice for many drivers.
Honda Civic
"Hyundai Elantra N manual. Honda Civic Type R manual. Civic SI manual."
The Honda Civic is a small car that many people use for everyday driving because it's reliable and saves gas. It's a good choice for anyone looking for a car that works well without costing a lot to maintain.
The Honda Civic is a compact car known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. It has a strong reputation and is often discussed for its versatility, making it a popular choice for a wide range of drivers.
Ford Mustang GTD
"Civic SI manual. Mustang GT manual. Nissan Z manual."
The Ford Mustang GTD is a super fast version of the classic Mustang car, built for people who want to race and have fun on the track. It has special features that make it even more exciting to drive.
The Ford Mustang GTD is a high-performance variant of the iconic Mustang, designed to deliver track-ready capabilities and advanced technology. It represents Ford's commitment to performance and innovation in the muscle car segment.
Nissan Z
"Mustang GT manual. Nissan Z manual. Boxer, WRX, GR86, Corolla Supra manual."
The Nissan Z is a new version of a classic sports car that many people love for its speed and good looks. It's designed for drivers who want a fun and exciting experience on the road.
The Nissan Z is a modern iteration of the iconic Z sports car line, known for its performance and sleek design. It continues the legacy of its predecessors, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate its blend of power and style.
Toyota Supra
"Nissan Z manual. Boxer, WRX, GR86, Corolla Supra manual. Wow."
The Toyota Supra is a fast and cool-looking sports car that people love for its speed and design. It's famous for being fun to drive and has a lot of fans because of its exciting history.
The Toyota Supra is a legendary sports car known for its powerful performance and distinctive styling. It has a rich history and has been revitalized in recent years, making it a hot topic among car enthusiasts and performance lovers.
BMW M2
"Wow. M3, M2, you can get the hand-shalter package in the ZFAR..."
The BMW M2 is a fast and sporty car made by BMW that is fun to drive. It's designed to be exciting on the road while still being practical enough for daily use.
The BMW M2 is a high-performance version of the 2 Series, offering a powerful engine and sporty handling. It's significant for its ability to deliver an exhilarating driving experience while maintaining everyday usability.
BMW Z4
"Where are we? The BMW Z4. Okay."
The BMW Z4 is a fancy convertible sports car that you can drive with the top down. It's stylish and fun to drive, making it a great choice for those who want a mix of luxury and excitement.
The BMW Z4 is a luxury sports convertible known for its elegant design and dynamic performance. It appeals to drivers looking for a stylish car that offers both comfort and a thrilling driving experience.
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