{"version":"1.0.0","episode":{"title":"The Lawsuit That Could Change How You Buy Cars","url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/the-lawsuit-that-could-change-how-you-buy-cars","audioUrl":"https://content.rss.com/episodes/84972/2489691/switchcast/2026_01_26_02_14_52_f38b759a-accf-4838-a5a0-709de2860a5c.mp3","description":"Automakers like Rivian are challenging state laws that block them from selling cars directly to buyers, and the legal stakes are bigger than they look. We, joined by our friend Burt Davdison from Diehl Automotive, break down why Ohio is at the center of the fight and what it could mean for the future of car buying.Sources used for this video:https://arstechnica.com/cars/2025/08/rivian-sues-ohio-over-direct-car-sales-ban/https://www.autonews.com/opinion/guest-commentary/an-guest-commentary-don-hall-scout-motors-1223/Support us on Patreon for bonus, exclusive content + live stream access https://www.patreon.com/switchcastFor more information on SwitchCast & to submit vanity plates, check out our website: https://switchcast.live/Please visit our sponsors:https://sheffieldwatches.com/ - mention \"SWITCHCAST\"https://www.nuts4sticks.com/ - discount code \"SWITCHCAST\" for 10% discounthttps://switchcars.comhttps://epicvin.com/?a_aid=vvttz3hc9ogvd- the supplemental vehicle history reports you really need. Use our affiliate link!https://solonspine.com/ - Are you crooked? Solon Spine will straighten you out!Follow our socials:https://www.facebook.com/SwitchcarsInchttps://www.tiktok.com/@switchcarsdoughttps://www.instagram.com/switchcars"},"annotations":[{"startTime":199.32,"endTime":205.34,"type":"car","title":"Porsche 911","url":"/cars/porsche/911","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c6/2013_Porsche_911_Carrera_4S_%28991%29_%289626546987%29.jpg","quote":"...n at 1 56pm on December 10th after someone called 911 to report that  the house's front door was open o...","canonicalId":"car:porsche:911","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Porsche 911 is a high-performance sports car that has been in production since 1964. Renowned for its distinctive design and rear-engine layout, it has become an icon in the automotive world, often discussed for its blend of luxury, speed, and engineering excellence.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Porsche 911 is a famous sports car known for being fast and stylish. It's been around for a long time and is loved by many car enthusiasts for its unique shape and powerful engine.","imageAttribution":"David Villarreal Fernández (CC BY-SA 2.0)"}},{"startTime":678.4,"endTime":683.0,"type":"brand","title":"Volkswagen","url":"/glossary/volkswagen","quote":"...Scout Motors essentially is Volkswagen. So Colorado gave Scout Motors a loophole, which is a dealer license for the...","canonicalId":"brand:volkswagen","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Volkswagen is a major German automotive manufacturer known for producing a wide range of vehicles, including the iconic Beetle and the Golf. The company has a significant global presence and is part of the Volkswagen Group, which includes several other automotive brands.","simplifiedExplanation":"Volkswagen is a well-known car company from Germany that makes many popular cars. They are famous for models like the Beetle and the Golf."}},{"startTime":690.6,"endTime":694.1,"type":"concept","title":"direct-to-consumer sales","url":"/glossary/direct-to-consumer-sales","quote":"...which is a dealer license for the manufacturer to sell direct to consumers. This has been a contentious topic for a while.","canonicalId":"concept:direct-to-consumer-sales","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Direct-to-consumer sales refer to a business model where manufacturers sell their products directly to customers, bypassing traditional retail channels. This approach can lead to lower prices and a more personalized buying experience.","simplifiedExplanation":"Direct-to-consumer sales mean that companies sell their products straight to customers instead of going through stores. This can sometimes make things cheaper and easier for buyers."}},{"startTime":758.4,"endTime":763.9,"type":"company","title":"Rivian","url":"/glossary/rivian","quote":"Back in August of 2025, Rivian filed a lawsuit against the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles in an effort to force the state to lift its ban on direct to consumer","canonicalId":"company:rivian","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Rivian is an American electric vehicle manufacturer known for its all-electric R1T pickup truck and R1S SUV. The company focuses on adventure-oriented electric vehicles and has gained attention for its innovative technology and design.","simplifiedExplanation":"Rivian is a company that makes electric trucks and SUVs. They are known for creating vehicles that are designed for outdoor adventures."}},{"startTime":773.6,"endTime":775.8,"type":"brand","title":"Tesla","url":"/glossary/tesla","quote":"Tesla is allowed to. Tesla has an exemption in Ohio, but I think it's only for Tesla.","canonicalId":"brand:tesla","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Tesla is an American electric vehicle manufacturer known for its innovative technology and direct-to-consumer sales model.","simplifiedExplanation":"Tesla is a car company that makes electric cars and sells them directly to customers instead of through traditional dealerships."}},{"startTime":785.5,"endTime":789.0,"type":"concept","title":"direct to consumer model","url":"/glossary/direct-to-consumer-model","quote":"So all the other EV manufacturers or other manufacturers who want to go to this direct to consumer model are SOL in Ohio.","canonicalId":"concept:direct-to-consumer-model","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The direct to consumer model allows manufacturers like Tesla to sell their vehicles directly to buyers without going through traditional dealerships, which can change how cars are sold and serviced.","simplifiedExplanation":"The direct to consumer model means that car companies sell their cars straight to people instead of using car dealerships, which is how most cars are sold."}},{"startTime":795.3,"endTime":801.8,"type":"concept","title":"franchise laws","url":"/glossary/franchise-laws","quote":"Now, I know where I stand on this because I don't have a franchise at stake.","canonicalId":"concept:franchise-laws","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.8,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Franchise laws govern how car manufacturers can sell their vehicles through dealerships and often require that manufacturers use a network of franchised dealers to sell their cars.","simplifiedExplanation":"Franchise laws are rules that tell car companies how they can sell their cars, usually requiring them to work with car dealerships instead of selling directly to customers."}},{"startTime":903.4,"endTime":907.8,"type":"brand","title":"Mercedes","url":"/glossary/mercedes","quote":"...the factory being the factory changes that up, you know, with Mercedes. It was it was legendary with Mercedes.","canonicalId":"brand:mercedes","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Mercedes is a well-known luxury automotive brand, famous for its high-quality vehicles and innovative technology. The brand has a long history and is recognized for its performance and luxury features.","simplifiedExplanation":"Mercedes is a car brand that makes luxury vehicles. They are known for their stylish designs and advanced technology."}},{"startTime":921.2,"endTime":926.3,"type":"term","title":"average transaction price","url":"/glossary/average-transaction-price","quote":"...as cars get more expensive, the average transaction price...","canonicalId":"term:average-transaction-price","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The average transaction price refers to the average amount paid by consumers for a vehicle, which can indicate market trends and consumer preferences. It is an important metric for understanding the automotive market.","simplifiedExplanation":"The average transaction price is the average price people pay when they buy a car. It helps understand how much cars are costing over time."}},{"startTime":1252.2,"endTime":1253.2,"type":"brand","title":"Volvo","url":"/glossary/volvo","quote":"Back in 2017, when I was associated with Volvo, and I don't know if this is the case now, but Volvo came out with their poll stars and some of the other electric models...","canonicalId":"brand:volvo","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Volvo is a Swedish automotive manufacturer known for its focus on safety and innovation, particularly in the realm of electric vehicles and sustainable transportation.","simplifiedExplanation":"Volvo is a car company from Sweden that makes safe and reliable vehicles, including electric cars."}},{"startTime":1256.3,"endTime":1263.5,"type":"concept","title":"direct leasing","url":"/glossary/direct-leasing","quote":"...where you leased it directly from the manufacturer, they delivered the car to the dealer and the dealer handled delivery and then after sales...","canonicalId":"concept:direct-leasing","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.8,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Direct leasing refers to a sales model where customers lease vehicles directly from the manufacturer instead of going through a dealership. This can streamline the process and potentially lower costs for consumers.","simplifiedExplanation":"Direct leasing means you can rent a car straight from the company that makes it, instead of going to a car dealer. This can make things easier and sometimes cheaper."}},{"startTime":1267.2,"endTime":1269.7,"type":"term","title":"after sales service","url":"/glossary/after-sales-service","quote":"...the dealer handled delivery and then after sales, which would be service.","canonicalId":"term:after-sales-service","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"After sales service refers to the support provided to customers after they purchase a vehicle, including maintenance, repairs, and customer service. This is crucial for customer satisfaction and vehicle longevity.","simplifiedExplanation":"After sales service is the help you get after buying a car, like fixing it when it breaks or answering questions about it."}},{"startTime":1437.0,"endTime":1439.0,"type":"term","title":"legacy manufacturers","url":"/glossary/legacy-manufacturers","quote":"But the legacy manufacturers would never survive...","canonicalId":"term:legacy-manufacturers","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Legacy manufacturers refer to traditional automotive companies that have been in the industry for a long time, often characterized by established business models and production methods. They may struggle to adapt to new market trends, especially with the rise of electric vehicles.","simplifiedExplanation":"Legacy manufacturers are older car companies that have been around for a long time. They often have traditional ways of making and selling cars, which can make it hard for them to keep up with new trends like electric vehicles."}},{"startTime":1473.7,"endTime":1474.7,"type":"concept","title":"Ford Direct","url":"/glossary/ford-direct","quote":"In the nineties, Ford did something called Ford Direct, where they...","canonicalId":"concept:ford-direct","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Ford Direct was an initiative in the 1990s where Ford attempted to take control of certain dealerships to sell cars directly to consumers, bypassing traditional dealership networks.","simplifiedExplanation":"Ford Direct was a program where Ford tried to sell cars directly to people instead of going through regular car dealerships."}},{"startTime":1663.1,"endTime":1665.14,"type":"car","title":"Chevrolet Corvette","url":"/cars/chevrolet/corvette","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/7f/Chevrolet_Corvette%2C_BAS_24%2C_Brussels_%28P1170387-RR%29.jpg","quote":"All right. Corvette curmudgeon. Bert, you were down at Meekum this week and saw a lot of a lot, a lot of cars there going through auction.","canonicalId":"car:chevrolet:corvette","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Chevrolet Corvette is a sports car known for its performance and distinctive design. It has a long history and is often associated with American automotive culture.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Corvette is a famous sports car made by Chevrolet. It's known for being fast and stylish, and it's a symbol of American car culture.","imageAttribution":"Matti Blume (CC BY-SA)"}},{"startTime":1694.78,"endTime":1696.66,"type":"car","title":"Ferrari 250 GTO","url":"/cars/ferrari/250-gto","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/bd/1961_Ferrari_250_GTO_prototype.jpg","quote":"But you saw one extra special Corvette. Tell us about that one. I mean, you know, I went down there to see Bianco Speciale, which is the white 250 GTO.","canonicalId":"car:ferrari:250-gto","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Ferrari 250 GTO is one of the most iconic and valuable cars in automotive history, known for its racing pedigree and limited production. It is highly sought after by collectors.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Ferrari 250 GTO is a very famous and expensive car that was made for racing. It's known for being one of the best cars ever made and is loved by collectors.","imageAttribution":"Unknown photographer (Public domain)"}},{"startTime":1708.2,"endTime":1714.3,"type":"term","title":"one of one","url":"/glossary/one-of-one","quote":"But this was the ultimate in the Corvette one of one minus rare.","canonicalId":"term:one-of-one","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The term 'one of one' refers to a vehicle that is the only example of its kind, often due to unique specifications or features. This adds significant value and rarity to the car.","simplifiedExplanation":"'One of one' means that there is only one car like it in the world. This makes it very special and rare."}},{"startTime":1860.9,"endTime":1868.0,"type":"term","title":"speed limiting devices","url":"/glossary/speed-limiting-devices","quote":"...the bill is proposed to give drivers the option of installing speed limiting devices in their cars instead of losing their licenses. So if you have multiple convictions for excessive speeding...","canonicalId":"term:speed-limiting-devices","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Speed limiting devices are electronic systems installed in vehicles that restrict the maximum speed a car can achieve. They are often used to promote safer driving habits and can be particularly beneficial for drivers with a history of speeding violations.","simplifiedExplanation":"Speed limiting devices are tools that can be added to cars to make sure they don't go over a certain speed. This can help drivers who have gotten into trouble for speeding to drive safely without losing their license."}},{"startTime":2360.0,"endTime":2372.5,"type":"term","title":"991","url":"/glossary/991","quote":"The 991s are becoming increasingly desirable, especially in a manual transmission.","canonicalId":"term:991","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The 991 is the internal designation for the seventh generation of the Porsche 911, produced from 2011 to 2019. It features a more modern design, improved technology, and enhanced performance compared to its predecessor.","simplifiedExplanation":"The 991 is a specific version of the Porsche 911 that was made from 2011 to 2019. It has updated features and a new design compared to earlier models."}},{"startTime":2424.34,"endTime":2483.18,"type":"concept","title":"electric vehicles","url":"/glossary/ev","quote":"Tesla guys might say that it's because the Corvettes are tired of losing... Electric vehicles require specific fire suppression","canonicalId":"concept:ev","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Electric vehicles (EVs) are cars that are powered entirely or partially by electricity, using batteries instead of traditional internal combustion engines. They have unique safety considerations, especially regarding battery management and fire risks in the event of a collision.","simplifiedExplanation":"Electric vehicles are cars that run on electricity instead of gasoline. They have batteries that can catch fire in accidents, which makes them different from regular cars when it comes to safety."}},{"startTime":2477.0,"endTime":2483.18,"type":"term","title":"fire suppression","url":"/glossary/fire-suppression","quote":"Electric vehicles require specific fire suppression...","canonicalId":"term:fire-suppression","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Fire suppression refers to the methods and systems used to extinguish or control fires, especially in vehicles. In the context of electric vehicles, specialized fire suppression techniques may be necessary due to the unique risks posed by lithium-ion batteries.","simplifiedExplanation":"Fire suppression is how we put out fires. Electric cars might need special ways to handle fires because their batteries can be very dangerous if they catch fire."}},{"startTime":2504.9,"endTime":2510.9,"type":"concept","title":"hybrid vehicles","url":"/glossary/hybrid-vehicles","quote":"...you can still move it like there's a whole bunch of other things that you can do with hybrids you can't do with full EVs.","canonicalId":"concept:hybrid-vehicles","priority":0.9,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Hybrid vehicles combine a conventional internal combustion engine with an electric propulsion system. This allows them to use less fuel and produce fewer emissions compared to traditional gasoline-only vehicles.","simplifiedExplanation":"A hybrid vehicle uses both a gas engine and an electric motor to run. This helps save fuel and is better for the environment than cars that only use gas."}},{"startTime":2524.8,"endTime":2534.0,"type":"company","title":"Tremec","url":"/glossary/tremec","quote":"...Tremac already installed its manual transmission in a C8 Corvette. Whoa, yeah. Yep, yep, yep. Nice.","canonicalId":"company:tremec","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"Tremec is a manufacturer known for producing high-performance manual transmissions, often used in sports and performance vehicles. They are recognized for their engineering and quality in the automotive industry.","simplifiedExplanation":"Tremec is a company that makes gear systems for cars, especially for sports cars that need strong and reliable transmissions to handle high speeds."}},{"startTime":2534.0,"endTime":2538.1,"type":"term","title":"manual transmission","url":"/glossary/manual-transmission","quote":"...they have not only developed a six-speed manual transactional for the platform...","canonicalId":"term:manual-transmission","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A manual transmission is a type of vehicle transmission that requires the driver to manually shift gears using a clutch pedal and gear stick. It offers more control over the vehicle's power and speed compared to automatic transmissions.","simplifiedExplanation":"A manual transmission is a system in cars where the driver has to change gears by hand, using a stick and a pedal. It gives the driver more control over how the car drives."}},{"startTime":2551.6,"endTime":2556.0,"type":"car","title":"Chevrolet C8","url":"/cars/chevrolet/corvette","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/7f/Chevrolet_Corvette%2C_BAS_24%2C_Brussels_%28P1170387-RR%29.jpg","quote":"I know we've taken this and mounted it in our own C8 just to make sure everything clears...","canonicalId":"car:chevrolet:corvette","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Chevrolet C8 refers to the eighth generation of the Corvette, which features a mid-engine layout and advanced performance capabilities.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Chevrolet C8 is the latest version of the Corvette sports car, known for its powerful engine and unique design with the engine located in the middle of the car.","imageAttribution":"Matti Blume (CC BY-SA)"}},{"startTime":2586.3599999999997,"endTime":2594.68,"type":"car","title":"Ford Mustang GTD","url":"/cars/ford/mustang-gtd","image":"https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/3f/2024_Ford_Mustang_GTD.jpg","quote":"...the Ford Mustang GTD also uses Tremac's TR980-9080 dual clutch transmission...","canonicalId":"car:ford:mustang-gtd","priority":0.5,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Ford Mustang GTD is a high-performance variant of the Mustang, designed for track use and featuring advanced technology and engineering.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Ford Mustang GTD is a special version of the Mustang sports car that is built for high performance, often used in racing or track events.","imageAttribution":"Calreyn88 (CC BY-SA 4.0)"}},{"startTime":2588.0,"endTime":2594.0,"type":"part","title":"Tremac TR980-9080 dual clutch transmission","url":"/glossary/tremac-tr980-9080-dual-clutch-transmission","quote":"...the Ford Mustang GTD also uses Tremac's TR980-9080 dual clutch transmission...","canonicalId":"part:tremac-tr980-9080-dual-clutch-transmission","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.9,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"The Tremac TR980-9080 is a dual-clutch transmission designed for high-performance vehicles, allowing for faster gear changes and improved acceleration.","simplifiedExplanation":"The Tremac TR980-9080 is a type of transmission that helps cars shift gears quickly, making them faster and more responsive."}},{"startTime":2601.3,"endTime":2606.0,"type":"term","title":"manual swap","url":"/glossary/manual-swap","quote":"...that could also take Tremac's six-speed manual. I don't know who would manual swap a half million dollar Mustang...","canonicalId":"term:manual-swap","priority":0.5,"confidence":0.85,"source":"hybrid-fuzzy+gpt-4o-mini","data":{"explanation":"A manual swap refers to the process of replacing an automatic transmission with a manual transmission in a vehicle, often for performance or driving preference.","simplifiedExplanation":"A manual swap is when someone changes a car's automatic transmission to a manual one, which can make driving more engaging for some people."}}],"speakers":[{"id":"s1","name":"Doug Tabbutt","role":"host"}],"transcripts":[{"url":"http://getcarcurious.com/episodes/the-lawsuit-that-could-change-how-you-buy-cars/transcript.vtt","type":"text/vtt"}]}