{"version":"1.0.0","episode":{"title":"Oct. 3, 2025 | The week’s top stories and Stellantis Canada’s Mike Szymkiewicz on tariffs, Jeep, EVs, more","url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/oct-3-2025-the-week-s-top-stories-and-stellantis-canada-s-mike-szymkiewicz-on-tariffs-jeep-evs-more","audioUrl":"https://dts.podtrac.com/redirect.mp3/www.buzzsprout.com/2467728/episodes/17946153-oct-3-2025-the-week-s-top-stories-and-stellantis-canada-s-mike-szymkiewicz-on-tariffs-jeep-evs-more.mp3","description":"Canadians choose hybrids; Australia’s Eagers buys into CanadaOne; NextStar battery plant complete. Plus, Stellantis Canada Head of Product Planning Mike Szymkiewicz on tariffs, Jeep Cherokee, EVs, affordability and more."},"annotations":[{"startTime":0.0,"endTime":30.0,"type":"company","title":"Stellantis","url":"/glossary/stellantis","quote":"...we hear from Stellantis, Canada, head of product planning, Mike Simquitz. He recently spoke with our publisher, Tim Demopolis, at a Jeep Off Road event...","canonicalId":"company:stellantis","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"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.","simplifiedExplanation":"Stellantis is a big car company that makes many different brands of vehicles, like Jeep and Dodge. It was created when two car companies joined together."}},{"startTime":45.0,"endTime":59.0,"type":"term","title":"hybrid vehicles","url":"/glossary/hybrid-vehicles","quote":"Sales of full hybrid vehicles overtook those of zero emission vehicles in the first half of 2025, that according to the latest data from S&P Global Mobility. Hybrid's captured about 13% of the overall market compared to the 9.5% captured by ZEVs.","canonicalId":"term:hybrid-vehicles","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Hybrid vehicles utilize a combination of an internal combustion engine and an electric motor to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. They can operate on electric power alone or switch to gasoline when needed, offering flexibility for drivers.","simplifiedExplanation":"Hybrid vehicles are cars that use both a gas engine and an electric motor. This helps them save fuel and produce less pollution than regular cars."}},{"startTime":59.0,"endTime":79.0,"type":"term","title":"zero emission vehicles (ZEVs)","url":"/glossary/zero-emission-vehicles-zevs","quote":"...compared to the 9.5% captured by ZEVs. S&P says the end of the federal government's $5,000 consumer EV incentive program...","canonicalId":"term:zero-emission-vehicles-zevs","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Zero emission vehicles (ZEVs) produce no tailpipe emissions, which typically includes electric vehicles and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. They are considered environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional gasoline-powered cars.","simplifiedExplanation":"Zero emission vehicles are cars that don't produce any harmful emissions while driving. This includes electric cars and some types of hydrogen-powered cars."}},{"startTime":133.0,"endTime":146.0,"type":"company","title":"Nextar Energy","url":"/glossary/nextar-energy","quote":"...Nextar Energy has finished construction of its $5 billion plant in Windsor, Ontario. Nextar is a joint venture electric vehicle battery company owned by Stellantis and LG Energy Solution.","canonicalId":"company:nextar-energy","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Nextar Energy is a joint venture focused on electric vehicle battery production, formed by Stellantis and LG Energy Solution. The company aims to support the growing demand for electric vehicles with sustainable battery solutions.","simplifiedExplanation":"Nextar Energy is a company that makes batteries for electric cars. It was created by two other companies to help meet the need for more electric vehicles."}},{"startTime":246.0,"endTime":255.0,"type":"car","title":"Ram 1500","url":"/cars/ram/1500","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/3a/2025_RAM_1500_REV%2C_front_NYIAS_2023.jpg","quote":"...our stuff will come out of Mexico now. So our RAM 1500 comes from Mexico or heavy duty trucks, the new C...","canonicalId":"car:ram:1500","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"imageAttribution":"Kevauto (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":246.0,"endTime":255.0,"type":"car","title":"Jeep Cherokee","url":"/cars/jeep/cherokee","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/9b/1975_Jeep_Cherokee_in_beige%2C_front_right.jpg","quote":"...0 comes from Mexico or heavy duty trucks, the new Cherokee will come from Mexico compass. So a bigger percen...","canonicalId":"car:jeep:cherokee","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Jeep Cherokee is a compact SUV known for its off-road capabilities and rugged design. It has been a significant model in Jeep's lineup since its introduction in the 1970s, appealing to both adventure seekers and families alike.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Jeep Cherokee is a type of SUV that can handle rough roads and off-road adventures. It's popular because it offers a lot of space and is good for both city driving and outdoor activities.","imageAttribution":"Mr.choppers (CC BY-SA 3.0)"}},{"startTime":383.0,"endTime":388.0,"type":"car","title":"Jeep Grand Cherokee","url":"/cars/jeep/grand-cherokee","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/27/2018_Jeep_Grand_Cherokee_%28WK2%29_SRT8_DSC_7222.jpg","quote":"But grand Cherokee for 26 is going to get a mid-cycle refresh. That's another big one for us.","canonicalId":"car:jeep:grand-cherokee","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a larger SUV that is set to receive a mid-cycle refresh in 2026. This update typically includes design changes, new technology, and improved features.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a bigger SUV than the Cherokee. It's getting some updates in 2026 to make it better and more modern.","imageAttribution":"Alexander Migl (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":388.0,"endTime":396.0,"type":"car","title":"Jeep Recon","url":"/cars/jeep/recon","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/d/d4/1945%2807%29_Jake_Lee_in_his_Jeep_Slow-n-Steady_644th_TD_Bn%2C_Recon_Company.jpg","quote":"And then early in 26 calendar year, we're going to watch the all new Jeep recon. So that'll be the another mid-size UV. But the first battery electric trail rated vehicle from Jeep.","canonicalId":"car:jeep:recon","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Jeep Recon is an upcoming model that will be Jeep's first battery electric vehicle designed for off-road use. It aims to combine the ruggedness of traditional Jeep models with electric vehicle technology.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Jeep Recon is a new electric vehicle from Jeep that can go off-road. It will have features like removable doors and roof, similar to the Wrangler.","imageAttribution":"Wikib101hermann (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":396.0,"endTime":408.0,"type":"car","title":"Jeep Wrangler","url":"/cars/jeep/wrangler","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/a7/JEEP_WRANGLER_%28JL%29_China.jpg","quote":"...to deliver all the cool things that you find on a Wrangler, the roof comes off, the doors come off, super ca...","canonicalId":"car:jeep:wrangler","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Jeep Wrangler is an iconic off-road vehicle known for its distinctive design and removable roof and doors. It has a strong following among outdoor enthusiasts and is celebrated for its ruggedness and versatility in various terrains.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Jeep Wrangler is a tough vehicle that you can take on adventures, like going off-road or driving in the mountains. It stands out because you can take off the roof and doors, making it fun to drive in nice weather.","imageAttribution":"Dinkun Chen (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":396.0,"endTime":408.0,"type":"term","title":"battery electric vehicle","url":"/glossary/bev","quote":"But it's going to deliver up maybe a little nicer, smoother on-road driving experience with its independent front and rear suspension.","canonicalId":"term:bev","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A battery electric vehicle (BEV) is powered entirely by electricity stored in batteries, as opposed to using gasoline or diesel. This type of vehicle produces zero tailpipe emissions.","simplifiedExplanation":"A battery electric vehicle is a car that runs only on electricity, not gas. It doesn't produce any pollution from a tailpipe."}},{"startTime":408.0,"endTime":415.0,"type":"term","title":"independent suspension","url":"/glossary/independent-suspension","quote":"it's going to deliver up maybe a little nicer, smoother on-road driving experience with its independent front and rear suspension.","canonicalId":"term:independent-suspension","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Independent suspension allows each wheel on a vehicle to move independently of the others, improving ride quality and handling. This setup is beneficial for both on-road comfort and off-road capability.","simplifiedExplanation":"Independent suspension means that each wheel can move up and down separately. This helps the car handle better and makes the ride smoother."}},{"startTime":467.0,"endTime":476.0,"type":"term","title":"pricing adjustments","url":"/glossary/pricing-adjustments","quote":"...current product portfolio that's gone through a bit of a pricing adjustment almost across the board.","canonicalId":"term:pricing-adjustments","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Pricing adjustments refer to changes made to the prices of vehicles, which can be influenced by market conditions, production costs, or strategic decisions to remain competitive. These adjustments can include price increases or reductions.","simplifiedExplanation":"Pricing adjustments are changes made to how much cars cost. Sometimes prices go up or down based on how well the company is doing or how much it costs to make the cars."}},{"startTime":497.0,"endTime":507.0,"type":"car","title":"Jeep Compass","url":"/cars/jeep/compass","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/a/aa/JEEP_COMPASS_%28MK49%29_China.jpg","quote":"...cross, you know, a number of our legacy products, compass, you know, pricing reductions up to $6,000. A cou...","canonicalId":"car:jeep:compass","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Jeep Compass is a compact SUV that blends the ruggedness of Jeep's off-road heritage with a more urban-friendly design. It is aimed at buyers looking for a versatile vehicle that can handle both daily commutes and weekend adventures.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Jeep Compass is a smaller SUV that is good for driving around town and also going on trips. It combines the tough look of a Jeep with features that make it comfortable for everyday use.","imageAttribution":"Dinkun Chen (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":507.0,"endTime":516.0,"type":"car","title":"Jeep Gladiator","url":"/cars/jeep/gladiator","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/0b/Gobi_Jeep_gladiator_%28JT%29_on_W_Ann_Rd.jpg","quote":"...we reduced gladiator pricing up to 11,400 on a Willys. And there's a couple of other models we're working on.","canonicalId":"car:jeep:gladiator","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Jeep Gladiator is a mid-size pickup truck that combines the off-road prowess of Jeep vehicles with the utility of a truck. It's designed for those who need a vehicle that can handle both work and play.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Jeep Gladiator is a pickup truck made by Jeep that is great for off-roading and can also carry heavy loads. It's perfect for people who want a truck that can go off the beaten path.","imageAttribution":"Noah Wulf (CC BY-SA 3.0)"}},{"startTime":539.0,"endTime":553.0,"type":"term","title":"upsell","url":"/glossary/upsell","quote":"...to give our dealers a chance to have these customers come in to talk to them and maybe upsell them to some of the higher end trims.","canonicalId":"term:upsell","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.8,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Upselling is a sales technique where a seller encourages the customer to purchase a more expensive item or upgrade their current choice. In the automotive industry, this often involves persuading customers to consider higher trim levels or additional features.","simplifiedExplanation":"Upselling is when a salesperson tries to get you to buy a more expensive version of what you're looking for. In car sales, this might mean suggesting a fancier model or extra features."}},{"startTime":561.0,"endTime":576.0,"type":"term","title":"price point","url":"/glossary/price-point","quote":"...Cherokee's priced at $39.995. So sub $40,000 price point, but that's going to get that vehicle on people shopping lists...","canonicalId":"term:price-point","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A price point refers to the specific price at which a product is sold. In the automotive context, it helps consumers understand the affordability and positioning of a vehicle within the market.","simplifiedExplanation":"A price point is the price at which something is sold. For cars, it helps buyers know how much they will need to spend to buy a specific model."}},{"startTime":576.0,"endTime":586.0,"type":"term","title":"loyalty","url":"/glossary/loyalty","quote":"...Jeep has had a high degree of loyalty from customers. We're going to get people reengaged with with the brand...","canonicalId":"term:loyalty","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Loyalty in the automotive context refers to customers' commitment to a particular brand or model, often leading them to make repeat purchases. High brand loyalty can significantly influence a company's sales and marketing strategies.","simplifiedExplanation":"Loyalty means how much customers stick with a brand they like. If people are loyal to a car brand, they are more likely to buy from that brand again in the future."}},{"startTime":669.0,"endTime":682.0,"type":"term","title":"off-road capability","url":"/glossary/off-road-capability-31ec5fe3-67b5-44d0-9748-a25ab91f0f72","quote":"...the history of and the DNA of its off road capability and, you know, how that kind of creates a stickiness with with the name plate.","canonicalId":"term:off-road-capability-31ec5fe3-67b5-44d0-9748-a25ab91f0f72","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Off-road capability refers to a vehicle's ability to perform well on unpaved, rough, or uneven terrains. This includes features like four-wheel drive, ground clearance, and suspension design.","simplifiedExplanation":"Off-road capability means how well a vehicle can drive on rough roads or trails. Vehicles with good off-road capability can handle bumps and dirt better than regular cars."}},{"startTime":777.0,"endTime":782.0,"type":"company","title":"Mopar","url":"/glossary/mopar","quote":"And Mopar gives them the ability to customize the jeeps to people's liking.","canonicalId":"company:mopar","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Mopar is the parts and service division of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (now part of Stellantis), known for providing performance parts and accessories for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram vehicles. They offer a wide range of aftermarket parts for customization.","simplifiedExplanation":"Mopar is a company that makes parts and accessories for Jeep and other Chrysler cars. They help people customize their vehicles with special upgrades."}},{"startTime":826.0,"endTime":831.0,"type":"part","title":"suspension lift kits","url":"/glossary/suspension-lift-kits","quote":"The catalog includes engine upgrades, wheels, suspension lift kits, rock rails, you name it.","canonicalId":"part:suspension-lift-kits","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Suspension lift kits are aftermarket modifications that raise a vehicle's suspension, allowing for increased ground clearance and improved off-road capability. They are popular among off-road enthusiasts for enhancing performance.","simplifiedExplanation":"Suspension lift kits are parts that make a vehicle higher off the ground. This helps the vehicle go over rocks and bumps better when driving off-road."}},{"startTime":886.0,"endTime":886.0,"type":"term","title":"regulatory landscape","url":"/glossary/regulatory-landscape","quote":"...there's been lots of changes on the regulatory side, regulatory landscapes, the ZF mandate...","canonicalId":"term:regulatory-landscape","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.8,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The regulatory landscape refers to the framework of laws and regulations that govern an industry. In the automotive context, this includes emissions standards, safety regulations, and mandates for electrification.","simplifiedExplanation":"The regulatory landscape is like the rules that car companies have to follow. These rules can include things like how much pollution their cars can make and how safe they need to be."}},{"startTime":899.0,"endTime":899.0,"type":"term","title":"ICE powertrain","url":"/glossary/ice-powertrain","quote":"...they can be built with an ice powertrain, they can be built as a plug-in hybrid, they can be built as an EV.","canonicalId":"term:ice-powertrain","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"ICE stands for Internal Combustion Engine, which refers to traditional engines that run on gasoline or diesel. This term is often used in discussions about electrification as a contrast to electric vehicles.","simplifiedExplanation":"ICE powertrain means Internal Combustion Engine, which is the type of engine that uses gas or diesel to run. It's what most cars have used for many years before electric cars became popular."}},{"startTime":899.0,"endTime":899.0,"type":"term","title":"plug-in hybrid","url":"/glossary/plug-in-hybrid","quote":"...they can be built as a plug-in hybrid, they can be built as an EV.","canonicalId":"term:plug-in-hybrid","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A plug-in hybrid is a type of vehicle that combines a traditional internal combustion engine with an electric motor and a rechargeable battery. It can be charged from an external power source and can run on electric power alone for a certain distance.","simplifiedExplanation":"A plug-in hybrid is a car that uses both gas and electricity. You can charge it up like an electric car, but it also has a regular engine that can use gas."}},{"startTime":899.0,"endTime":899.0,"type":"term","title":"EV","url":"/glossary/ev","quote":"...they can be built as an EV.","canonicalId":"term:ev","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"EV stands for Electric Vehicle, which is a vehicle that is powered entirely by electricity, using batteries instead of a traditional internal combustion engine. EVs are part of the shift towards more sustainable transportation.","simplifiedExplanation":"EV means Electric Vehicle, which is a car that runs only on electricity. It doesn't use gas at all, making it better for the environment."}},{"startTime":934.0,"endTime":941.0,"type":"term","title":"electrified powertrain","url":"/glossary/electrified-powertrain","quote":"...most of our name plates coming to market over the next few years will have an electrified powertrain. 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It can be fully electric or work alongside a regular gas engine to save fuel and reduce pollution."}},{"startTime":1012.0,"endTime":1017.0,"type":"term","title":"1.6 liter turbocharged engine","url":"/glossary/1-6-liter-turbocharged-engine","quote":"...all Cherokees will be powered by a 1.6 liter turbo have engine so it's not a plug-in hybrid.","canonicalId":"term:1-6-liter-turbocharged-engine","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A 1.6 liter turbocharged engine is a small displacement engine that uses a turbocharger to increase power output. This setup typically provides better fuel efficiency and performance compared to naturally aspirated engines of similar size.","simplifiedExplanation":"A 1.6 liter turbocharged engine is a type of engine that is smaller in size but uses a turbo to make it more powerful. It helps the car use less fuel while still being strong."}},{"startTime":1020.0,"endTime":1025.0,"type":"term","title":"torque","url":"/glossary/torque","quote":"...have engine so it's not a plug-in hybrid. It's not a full electric. It's a traditional have set up 210 horsepower 230 pound feet of torque.","canonicalId":"term:torque","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Torque is a measure of rotational force, which in vehicles translates to how much pulling power an engine has. It's crucial for acceleration and towing capabilities.","simplifiedExplanation":"Torque is how strong an engine is at moving things. It helps cars speed up quickly and pull heavy loads."}},{"startTime":1026.0,"endTime":1031.0,"type":"term","title":"four by four system","url":"/glossary/four-by-four-system","quote":"...All Cherokees come with our active drive one four by four system and they all come standard with select terrain up to 800 kilometer driving range.","canonicalId":"term:four-by-four-system","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A four by four (4x4) system allows all four wheels of a vehicle to receive power from the engine simultaneously, enhancing traction and control, especially in off-road conditions.","simplifiedExplanation":"A four by four system means that all four wheels of the car can get power from the engine at the same time. This helps the car grip the road better, especially on rough surfaces."}},{"startTime":1031.0,"endTime":1036.0,"type":"term","title":"select terrain","url":"/glossary/select-terrain","quote":"...come standard with select terrain up to 800 kilometer driving range. So much more fuel efficient than the old model...","canonicalId":"term:select-terrain","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Select Terrain is a feature that allows drivers to choose different driving modes tailored to various road conditions, such as snow, mud, or sand, optimizing the vehicle's performance.","simplifiedExplanation":"Select Terrain is a feature that lets you pick how the car drives based on the road conditions, like if it's snowy or muddy. It helps the car perform better in those situations."}}],"speakers":[{"id":"s1","name":"Automotive News Canada","role":"host"}],"transcripts":[{"url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/oct-3-2025-the-week-s-top-stories-and-stellantis-canada-s-mike-szymkiewicz-on-tariffs-jeep-evs-more/transcript.vtt","type":"text/vtt"}]}