About this episode
The latest episode dives into electric vehicle manufacturing, featuring insights from Hyundai, Voltaic, and Bosch. Hosts Sam, Nicole, and Roberto share their recent driving experiences, including the Ford F-150 Lightning and Expedition Tremor, discussing performance, comfort, and charging challenges. They also touch on the Honda Passport's off-road capabilities and the BMW 228i Grand Coupe's tech features. The episode wraps up with automotive industry news, including Stellantis' investment plans and the discontinuation of certain models, while addressing listener questions about driving habits and EV range.
Nicole has been driving a bunch of stuff including the Ford F-150 Lightning and Expedition Tremor and went off-roading in the Honda Passport. Sam enjoyed some time with the BMW 228 xDrive Gran Coupe.
Toyota is realigning its sporty branding for future models. Stellantis is investing $13 billion in shifting production to US factories and refreshing the Alfa Romeo Tonale for 2026. The Kia Tasman hasn't exactly been a hit in Australia. Lamborghini is cutting its EV plan and sticking with plug-in hybrids for now. Volvo may ditch key cards for fobs and Porsche is keeping buttons and fobs. A Faraday Future FF91 failed to hit reserve at auction and Cadillac is killing the current CT4 and CT5 after 2026 but promising a new CT5. Sam bought another Kia EV6 and we discuss how far people can actually drive without a pit stop.
Links
TRD for Trucks, GR for Cars/CUVs
Stellantis to invest $13B in US production
Kia Tasman Struggling in Australia
Lamborghini to focus on PHEV not EV
Porsche Keeping Keys and Buttons
Faraday FF91 fails to sell at auction
Cadillac CT4/CT5 dead after 2026
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EV manufacturing
"This week's topic is EV manufacturing. We talked to..."
EV manufacturing is how electric cars are made, which is different from making regular gas-powered cars.
EV manufacturing refers to the process of producing electric vehicles, which involves unique technologies and components compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles.
Bosch
"I talked to Hyundai, we talked to Voltaic, and we talked to Bosch. So..."
Bosch is a big company that makes parts and technology for cars, including electric vehicles.
Bosch is a global engineering and technology company that supplies automotive components, including systems for electric vehicles, safety systems, and more.
Ford F150 Lightning
"...it was the F-150 Lightning, which I driven before. Yeah. So, the fun thing was..."
The Ford F-150 Lightning is a fully electric truck that can be used for work and daily driving. It has a lot of modern features and is popular among truck buyers.
The Ford F-150 Lightning is an all-electric version of the popular F-150 pickup truck, known for its power and utility. It features advanced technology and a spacious interior, making it suitable for both work and everyday use.
Dodge Durango
"...I have a Durango that's not a new Durango sitting in the driveway..."
The Dodge Durango is a type of SUV that has a lot of space inside for passengers and cargo. It's good for families and can also tow things like trailers.
The Dodge Durango is a mid-size SUV known for its spacious interior and strong performance. It offers a range of powerful engine options and is often used for family transport and towing.
speed bump
"...I went over a speed bump slightly too fast..."
A speed bump is a bump in the road that makes cars slow down. You often see them in places where people walk, like parking lots, to keep everyone safe.
A speed bump is a raised area on the road designed to slow down vehicles. They are commonly found in parking lots and residential areas to enhance safety.
Ford Lightning
"...and who chose the Lightning?"
The Ford Lightning is a special version of the Ford F-150 truck that is designed to be faster and more powerful than regular trucks. It's great for those who want a truck that can also perform well on the road.
The Ford Lightning is a high-performance version of the Ford F-150 pickup truck, known for its powerful engine and sporty handling. It combines utility with speed.
kilowatt
"It had a 123 kilowatt and a 131 kilowatt one. When you look at the technical specs for the vehicle, it comes up with two different."
A kilowatt is a way to measure how much power something uses or produces. In electric cars, it tells you how strong the battery is.
Kilowatt is a unit of power equal to 1,000 watts, commonly used to measure the output of electric motors and batteries in electric vehicles. In this context, it refers to the power capacity of the vehicle's extended-range battery.
extended-range battery
"Yeah, I was a little thrown too, Sam, but it does show a 123 kilowatt extended-range battery, a 131 kilowatt extended-range battery."
An extended-range battery helps electric cars go further on a single charge. It either holds more energy or has extra features to keep the car running longer before needing to plug it in.
An extended-range battery is designed to provide a longer driving range for electric vehicles by either increasing the battery capacity or incorporating additional power sources. This allows drivers to travel further without needing to recharge frequently.
trim level
"And I think it's a trim level thing. The Pro and the Flash get the 123, and then the Platinum and the Lariat, and I guess available on the Pro, is the 131."
A trim level is like a version of a car that comes with different features. Some versions might have more technology or luxury options than others.
Trim level refers to the different versions of a vehicle model that come with varying features, options, and specifications. Higher trim levels often include more advanced technology, better materials, or additional performance features.
Toyota RAV4
"I want a page where we're like, oh, let's talk about the RAV4. Okay, I want to go to that page and see everything about the RAV4."
The Toyota RAV4 is a popular small SUV that many people use for everyday driving. It's known for being dependable and having a lot of space inside for passengers and cargo.
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV known for its reliability, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. It's one of the best-selling SUVs in its class, appealing to a wide range of consumers.
horsepower
"It is 580 horsepower. That base battery, the standard range is 452."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. The higher the horsepower, the faster the car can go and the better it can accelerate.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, commonly used to quantify the power output of engines. In the context of cars, it indicates how much work the engine can perform over time, affecting acceleration and overall performance.
range anxiety
"So that, so I had a little, little range anxiety because the charging stations were refusing to cooperate with my charging needs. I did enjoy driving it though."
Range anxiety is when you worry that your electric car will run out of battery before you can charge it again. This can happen if there aren't enough charging stations on your route.
Range anxiety refers to the fear or concern that an electric vehicle (EV) will run out of battery power before reaching a charging station. This is a common issue for EV drivers, especially on long trips where charging infrastructure may be limited.
instant EV torque
"...when you have those EVs, they always have that sort of that instant EV torque everybody talks about. And this is no exception."
Instant EV torque means that electric cars can go really fast right away when you press the gas pedal. They don't have to wait to build up speed like regular cars do.
Instant EV torque refers to the immediate power delivery that electric vehicles provide when the accelerator is pressed. Unlike traditional internal combustion engines, which need to build up RPMs to deliver power, electric motors can deliver maximum torque from a standstill, resulting in quick acceleration.
EV
"...the challenge with this truck or any EV that's a truck is if you're really towing, if you're going to be towing, it's tough because you lose a lot of that range when you're towing."
An EV is a car that runs on electricity instead of gas. They are better for the environment because they produce fewer harmful emissions.
EV stands for electric vehicle, which is a type of vehicle that is powered entirely or partially by electricity instead of gasoline or diesel. EVs are known for their lower emissions and can be more efficient than traditional vehicles.
Ford F-150
"...between this and a straight up normal gas powered, um, F 150."
The Ford F-150 is a big truck that many people use for work and everyday driving. It's known for being strong and able to carry heavy loads.
The Ford F-150 is a popular full-size pickup truck known for its versatility, towing capacity, and range of configurations. It's often chosen for both work and personal use due to its reliability and performance.
Ford Expedition
"...e in another giant Ford. They put me in the Ford expedition tremor. So it's just one giant Ford to another g..."
off-road tires
"It gets 33 inch, you know, off-road tires, there's skid plates."
Off-road tires are special tires made for driving on rough surfaces like dirt and rocks. They have deeper patterns to help the car grip better and not get stuck.
Off-road tires are designed with deeper treads and more robust construction to provide better traction and durability on rough, uneven surfaces, such as dirt, mud, and rocks.
G-Class
"...I need to take something it's not if it gets scratched it's not that big of a deal and you know the G wagons on high-performance street tires..."
The G-Class is a fancy SUV made by Mercedes-Benz. It's built to handle tough terrains but also has a luxurious feel inside.
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, often referred to as the G-Wagon, is a luxury SUV known for its off-road capabilities and boxy design. It's popular among those who want a combination of ruggedness and luxury.
tank tracks
"...you need a tracks like tank tracks like tank tracks..."
Tank tracks are the big, flat belts that tanks use to move. They help the vehicle drive over mud and rough ground without getting stuck.
Tank tracks, or continuous tracks, are a type of vehicle propulsion system that provides better traction and weight distribution on soft or uneven surfaces, making them ideal for off-road conditions. They are commonly found on military tanks and some specialized vehicles.
3.5 liter V6
"...it is a 3.5 liter V6 and has a 10 speed auto and there's 440 horsepower..."
A 3.5 liter V6 engine is a specific type of car engine that has six cylinders shaped like a 'V'. It's powerful and helps the car go fast while still being efficient with fuel.
The 3.5 liter V6 is a type of engine configuration that features six cylinders arranged in a V shape. This engine size is known for providing a good balance of power and efficiency, making it popular in larger vehicles like SUVs.
10 speed automatic transmission
"...it is a 3.5 liter V6 and has a 10 speed auto and there's 440 horsepower..."
A 10 speed automatic transmission is a system in cars that changes gears automatically, helping the car run smoothly and efficiently. It has ten different settings to help the engine work better.
A 10 speed automatic transmission is a type of gearbox that allows the vehicle to automatically change gears through ten different ratios. This can improve fuel efficiency and performance by keeping the engine in its optimal power band.
Tesla Model Y
"...there's somebody in my neighborhood who until about three weeks ago had a Model Y parked in their driveway..."
The Tesla Model Y is an electric SUV that has a lot of space and advanced technology, making it a favorite for many drivers.
The Tesla Model Y is a compact electric SUV that offers a blend of performance, technology, and spaciousness, making it a popular choice among EV buyers.
Honda Passport
"...I thought written down did I ever talk about that so they invited me to do an off-road drive in the passport..."
The Honda Passport is a type of SUV that can handle rough terrains and is good for both city driving and outdoor adventures. It's spacious inside and designed for comfort and utility.
The Honda Passport is a midsize SUV known for its off-road capabilities and spacious interior. It is designed for both on-road comfort and off-road adventures, making it a versatile choice for drivers.
off-road park
"...they had it in an off-road park in the Carolinas that their engineers actually use for testing..."
An off-road park is a special place where people can drive vehicles on rough ground, like dirt and rocks. It's designed to let drivers test how well their vehicles can handle tough conditions.
An off-road park is a designated area specifically designed for off-road vehicles to drive and test their capabilities. These parks often feature various terrains and obstacles to challenge drivers and showcase vehicle performance.
OEMs
"OEMs out there and people even just use it as a recreational thing but it's this huge area lots of technical terrain that you can cover..."
OEMs are the companies that make cars and the parts that go into them. They are responsible for the original design and manufacturing of the vehicles.
OEMs stands for Original Equipment Manufacturers, which are companies that produce parts and equipment that may be marketed by another manufacturer. In the automotive context, OEMs refer to car manufacturers that make vehicles and their components.
tow hook
"...it's like I design this this tow hook this tow hooks mine like they were so excited about the things they did..."
A tow hook is a strong metal hook on a car that helps pull it if it gets stuck or needs to be towed. It's important for helping cars that can't drive on their own.
A tow hook is a device attached to a vehicle that allows it to be towed by another vehicle. It is designed to provide a strong point for towing and can be crucial in recovery situations.
trail sport trim
"...in the trail sport trim which is their fancy trim for off-roading..."
Trail Sport trim is a special version of the Honda Passport that has features to help it perform better on rough trails and off-road conditions.
Trail Sport trim is a specific version of the Honda Passport designed for off-road performance, featuring enhancements like improved suspension, all-terrain tires, and additional protective features.
differential
"...we're gonna teach you what these technical things mean they even had a little tiny Lego version just show you how the differential works..."
A differential is a part of a car that helps the wheels turn at different speeds, especially when going around corners. This helps the car drive smoothly and stay stable.
A differential is a mechanical component in a vehicle that allows the wheels to rotate at different speeds, particularly important during turns. It helps maintain traction and stability by distributing power to the wheels appropriately.
Honda TrailSport
"...drive it see what it means to drive a trail sport off-road so they have people from all sort of different walks of life..."
The Honda TrailSport is a special version of Honda cars that is made for driving off-road. It has features that help it handle rough and uneven surfaces better than regular cars.
The Honda TrailSport is a variant of Honda vehicles designed for off-road capabilities, featuring enhancements that improve performance on rugged terrains. It is part of Honda's effort to cater to outdoor enthusiasts and those who require more from their vehicles in terms of versatility and capability.
skid plates
"...it's got skid plates it's got the all-terrain tires..."
Skid plates are metal shields that protect the bottom of a car from getting damaged when driving over rocks or rough ground.
Skid plates are protective plates installed on the underside of a vehicle to shield it from damage when driving over rough terrain or obstacles.
Ford Bronco
"...an you're going for something you're gonna buy a Bronco or you're gonna buy a Bronco yeah but in terms o..."
Mini Countryman
"...he same same platform that they use for the mini Countryman and I think even for the regular minis now so you..."
Toyota Camry
"...y've had you know TRD trims on the cars like the Camry but Toyota is shifting direction a little bit wit..."
Toyota Land Cruiser
"...on-frame vehicles so for trucks and SUVs like the Land Cruiser and the Forerunner those will have be available ..."
Toyota Supra
"...anded as GR for the last several years anyway the Supra was technically was a GR Supra you get the the C..."
Toyota Corolla Gr
"...a was technically was a GR Supra you get the the Corolla GR and the GR86 so now they're just spreading that ..."
Jeep Compass
"...is showed they revealed the next generation Jeep Compass and they started production of this thing in Ita..."
Chrysler 300
"...build the old charger and Challenger and Chrysler 300 and they were retooling that to build the the ne..."
Jeep Cherokee
"...since 2023 when they ended production of the old Cherokee starting in 2027 will be building the new Cheroke..."
Jeep Wrangler
"it's going to be built in Toledo alongside the Wrangler and the gladiator okay Wrangler gladiator new mi..."
Jeep Gladiator
"...be built in Toledo alongside the Wrangler and the gladiator okay Wrangler gladiator new midsize pickup yep l..."
Jeep Wagoneer
"...arren Michigan plant that currently produces the Wagoneer the Jeep Wagoneer is going to add another full-si..."
Jeep Grand Wagoneer
"...bout last week that's going into the Wagoneer the Grand Wagoneer in the spring and also in the RAM the RAM rev wh..."
Jeep Grand Cherokee
"...based on the platform of the previous generation grand Cherokee because built in the same plant the Jefferson pla..."
Mitsubishi Lancer
"...e to say about this one next week EVO stands for Lancer they're gonna start making a Lancer the cheap La..."
Dodge Hornet
"...nk the tenali actually sells better than the the Dodge Hornet does really yeah maybe I mean I think people don..."
Chrysler Pacifica
"... around okay because all day for Chrysler is the Pacifica yeah that's right I mean if you're gonna keep the..."
Dodge Magnum
"...cally they don't but I mean bring back the Dodge Magnum yeah I would love to see the Magnum back but wel..."
Dodge Charger
"...onna get maybe a Magnum based on the the current charger yeah we've solved all of Stellantis's problems ju..."
Subaru Impreza
"...ribeca the Tribeca and then they threw it on the Impreza and then the Impreza like it was that for like a..."
Lamborghini Gallardo
"...e new Temerario which is the replacement for the Gallardo so I don't think anyone shocked by this everybody..."
Porsche Cayenne
"...now over there Lamborghini yeah kind of like the Cayenne and Macan do for Porsche exactly but yeah you kno..."
Porsche Macan
"...re Lamborghini yeah kind of like the Cayenne and Macan do for Porsche exactly but yeah you know I yeah ..."
Volvo EX90
"...vo is recon and they've got the same thing on the EX90 as well apparently they are reconsidering that p..."
Hyundai Kona
"...our years now yeah we had three years on the the Kona and a year on the over a year on the Ionic 5 so y..."
Tesla Model S
"...had bought earlier or last year had bought a used model s a 2013 model s and they were doing some testing ..."
Cadillac CT5
"... fun to listen to read all right Cadillac CT4 and CT5 there the current generation of those models is ..."
Cadillac CT4
"...s always fun to listen to read all right Cadillac CT4 and CT5 there the current generation of those mo..."
Chevrolet Corvette
"...s of what if they put the twin-turbo V8 from the Corvette CR1 into the new CT5 thousand horsepower yeah wit..."
Volkswagen Tuareg
"...a license plate that he saw on a car it was on a Volkswagen Tuareg a couple years back a Tuareg diesel and it's a N..."
Dodge Avenger
"... speed that you are here's a question Bill is an Avenger as far as I can so Bill here are questions what a..."
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