The NEW Audi A2, the Morris Marina, innate optimism
About this episode
The hosts kick off with life-on-the-road talk—fuel prices, EV charging sponsor updates, and a practical approach to range using Waze in an MG4. They then dive into data and durability, citing an MOT analysis that highlights huge differences in corrosion failure rates across models. Kit-car culture gets a spotlight with Tim Dutton’s return and the Phaeton 5. Alpina’s BMW-era relaunch is debated too, including whether it risks becoming “just a trim level.” The second half shifts to a rebuilt 205 GTI rally car, wheel-curbing pet peeves, and why analog-style dials still feel premium.
n this week's episode of the Autocar podcast, My Week In Cars, Steve Cropley and Matt Prior talk about the new Audi A2, innate optimism, driving for fun, and the Morris Marina with a six-cylinder engine.
There's more too, including your letters, and details of a special offer which gives you SIX issues of Autocar for just £6 if you click here.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Anderson
"It's sponsored by Anderson, our friends at Anderson who make premium electric car chargers. They're very design focused, really good looking things."
Anderson is the company sponsoring the show. They make home electric car chargers and are pitching their service and design as part of the deal.
Anderson is mentioned as the sponsor making premium electric car chargers. The segment highlights that their chargers are design-focused and that they offer a concierge service for setup and support.
Intelligent Octopus Go tariff
"And if you sign up to the Intelligent Octopus Go tariff, you can get six months or 4,000 miles free charging on orders placed with Anderson after the 1st of March."
This is an electricity pricing plan for EV charging. The idea is to charge when power is cheaper, and the hosts say there’s a limited-time offer that gives you free charging credit if you sign up and order through the sponsor.
The Intelligent Octopus Go tariff is a specific electricity pricing plan used to encourage off-peak charging for electric vehicles. The hosts mention a promotion tied to this tariff, offering free charging credit (six months or 4,000 miles) when ordering chargers after a certain date.
diesel
"Because you look out the window and see diesel at close to two quid a shot. Yeah, I saw somebody filling up, a friend of mine was filling up with..."
Diesel is a type of fuel used by some cars. They’re talking about how expensive it is right now, which makes people think more about alternatives like EV charging.
Diesel is a fuel type used in many cars, especially in Europe, and it’s being referenced here mainly to illustrate current fuel prices. The hosts compare the cost of diesel to the cost of petrol to set the context for why charging and EV economics matter.
V-Power Petrol
"Was it V-Power Petrol at 2.20 or something the other day? Really?"
V-Power Petrol is a premium grade of petrol sold under a brand name. They’re using it to talk about how much fuel costs when someone fills up.
V-Power Petrol is a branded premium petrol offering (associated with Shell) that typically costs more than standard fuel. The mention is used to give a real-world example of petrol pricing at the pump.
Renault Twingo
"Richard was very kind the other day when he was talking about my review of the Renault Twingo."
The Renault Twingo is a small car made by Renault, designed mainly for city driving. It’s easy to park and get around in tight spaces. Here, the hosts mention it because someone recently reviewed one.
The Renault Twingo is a small city car from Renault, known for its compact size and easy maneuverability. In this segment, it’s referenced as the subject of a review, which is why it’s worth flagging for listeners who may not recognize the model.
car history checking companies
"I stumbled across something moderately interesting. Says John, one of those car history checking companies has analyzed three million MOT test results"
These are services that look at lots of past records about cars. By combining many inspections, they can spot which models usually have certain problems, like rust.
Car history checking companies compile large datasets—often from inspection records—to infer reliability and common failure modes by make/model. In this segment, that approach is used to connect MOT outcomes to rust-related failure rates.
MOT test results
"one of those car history checking companies has analyzed three million MOT test results to find out things such as, which car has the most failures for rust?"
In the UK, an MOT is a yearly safety and emissions check for cars. If a company studies lots of MOT results, it can show which cars tend to fail for common problems, like rust.
An MOT test is the UK’s mandatory annual vehicle inspection for roadworthiness. When someone analyzes MOT test results at scale, they can identify trends—like which models most often fail for specific issues such as rust.
rust
"to find out things such as, which car has the most failures for rust? Hmm."
Rust is when metal starts corroding and breaking down due to moisture and salt. It can make a car less safe and can lead to it failing inspections. Here, they’re using MOT data to show which cars rust more often.
Rust refers to corrosion of metal surfaces, which can compromise structural integrity and lead to repeated inspection failures. The segment ties rust directly to MOT failure frequency, implying that corrosion is a measurable, model-specific issue rather than just general aging.
Dacia Duster
"I'm afraid the much lauded Dacia Duster is near the top of the oxide list"
The Dacia Duster is a compact SUV. In this segment, it’s mentioned as being near the top of a list for rust-related problems found in MOT test data. Rust can start small but can get costly if it spreads.
The Dacia Duster is a popular compact SUV from Dacia, and it’s being called out here based on MOT test results related to rust. That “oxide list” framing suggests a pattern of corrosion-related failures, which matters because rust can become an expensive structural and safety issue over time.
Suzuki SX4
"Anyway, I've clicked on the link. And the 2011 Suzuki SX4 diesel has corrosion related defects in over 71% of MOT tests."
They’re talking about a 2011 Suzuki SX4 diesel and saying rust/corrosion shows up a lot when the car is inspected for roadworthiness. If you’re buying one, you’d want to check for rust carefully before committing.
The speaker is referencing a 2011 Suzuki SX4 diesel and claiming it has corrosion-related defects showing up in a very high share of MOT tests. In the UK, MOT testing is a yearly roadworthiness inspection, so a high corrosion defect rate is a big ownership concern.
corrosion related defects
"And the 2011 Suzuki SX4 diesel has corrosion related defects in over 71% of MOT tests. Phew."
This means the car has rust problems that show up in inspection. Rust can weaken parts of the car, so it’s treated seriously during MOT checks.
“Corrosion related defects” refers to inspection findings where rust or metal deterioration affects the car’s safety or roadworthiness. In practice, this often means issues like weakened body structure, perforation, or corrosion-heavy areas that can fail MOT requirements.
MOT tests
"And the 2011 Suzuki SX4 diesel has corrosion related defects in over 71% of MOT tests. Phew. I know. The 2019 Ford Fiesta has a 0.18 defect rate for rust."
In the UK, an MOT is a yearly check to make sure a car is safe and legal to drive. If a website says a model fails MOTs often for rust, that’s a warning sign for buyers.
MOT tests are the UK’s mandatory annual inspection for roadworthiness for cars above a certain age. When the hosts quote “defect rates in MOTs,” they’re summarizing how often specific issues—like rust/corrosion—show up during these inspections.
Ford Fiesta
"The 2019 Ford Fiesta has a 0.18 defect rate for rust. Really? What a different, what an astonishing difference."
They’re using a 2019 Ford Fiesta as a comparison point, saying it has a very low chance of rust-related problems showing up in its MOT. It’s basically a “this one seems better on rust” example.
The hosts compare rust outcomes by mentioning a 2019 Ford Fiesta and quoting a very low rust defect rate in MOT testing. The point is that corrosion risk can vary dramatically between models/years, even within the same general vehicle class.
MOT mentions of corrosion
"“55,000 occurrences of MOT mentions of corrosion in Dusters.” [358.6s] OK."
In the UK, cars have an MOT test to check they’re safe to drive. If rust/corrosion shows up in MOT results, it gets recorded, and people can count how often it happens for certain car models.
In the UK, MOT tests include checks for roadworthiness, and corrosion-related items can show up in the MOT history. When a podcast cites “MOT mentions of corrosion,” it’s using aggregated MOT records as a proxy for how often corrosion issues appear across a model’s population.
BMW 320 2017 diesel
"“...amazing stuff, like the BMW 320 2017 diesel 0.2% defect rate.” [381.1s] Wow."
They’re talking about a 2017 BMW 320 diesel and saying it has a very low rate of corrosion-related problems showing up in the data they looked at. It’s basically a way to compare how rust issues differ between models/years.
The speaker references a “BMW 320” from 2017 with a diesel engine and quotes a very low defect rate tied to corrosion. This is being used as evidence that some newer BMW diesels show fewer corrosion-related issues in MOT-style data.
defect rate because of corrosion
"“...BMW 320 2017 diesel 0.2% defect rate.” [404.5s] “So there's a big old difference, isn't there,”"
They’re using a percentage number to describe how often corrosion problems show up in inspection records. It’s a useful comparison tool, but it doesn’t guarantee what any single car will be like.
“Defect rate” here is an aggregated percentage of inspection findings attributed to corrosion. Using corrosion-specific defect rates helps compare how different models/years fare against rust, but it’s still dependent on climate, maintenance, and how the data is categorized.
BMW 116
"“...2016, so 10 years old BMW 116 has a 0.33 defect rate [402.2s] because of corrosion.”"
They mention a BMW 116 from around 2016 and say its corrosion-related defect rate is higher than the newer BMW 320. The takeaway is that age and exposure can make rust problems show up more often.
The “BMW 116” is mentioned as a 2016 model (described as “10 years old” in the conversation) with a higher corrosion-related defect rate than the newer BMW 320. The point is that older BMWs can show more corrosion issues in aggregated inspection data.
corrosion defect rates
"We analyzed 3,142,385 MOT tests to rank corrosion defect rates. [444.6s] Wow."
“Corrosion defect rates” means how frequently cars show rust-related problems in inspection results. If a model has a high rate, it’s more likely to develop rust as it gets older.
Corrosion defect rates refer to how often vehicles fail or record defects related to rust/corrosion in inspections. Ranking cars by these rates helps listeners understand which models are more prone to rust based on real-world inspection outcomes rather than marketing claims.
Grand Tour
"And I think, isn't it Francis Bourgeois, the new Grand Tour fellow? ... Yeah, I think that's who it is."
The Grand Tour is a car TV show. The hosts are talking about who’s appearing on it, not about a particular car.
The Grand Tour is a TV motoring show associated with former Top Gear hosts. When the hosts mention a “new Grand Tour fellow,” they’re referring to the show’s on-screen lineup and guest/presenter changes rather than a specific car model.
The return of Dutton Kit cars
"[664.7s] and I don't think we've... [666.1s] I don't think we've talked about it, [669.0s] correct me if I'm wrong. [670.7s] The return of Dutton Kit cars."
A “kit car” is a car you buy in parts and then build yourself (or have someone build it for you). When a podcast talks about the “return” of a kit-car brand, it usually means the company or its cars are becoming relevant again—either new kits, new production, or renewed interest.
“Dutton Kit cars” refers to the revival of Dutton’s home-built, kit-based sports car approach. Kit cars are typically sold as components so owners (or specialist builders) assemble them, which can change how the car is sourced, registered, and maintained compared with a factory-built model.
track prepped
"If you've got a car that looks track prepped or modded or whatever, sometimes you just look at a glance and go, hang on a minute,"
A “track prepped” car is set up for driving on a race track. It usually has upgrades and safety gear so it can handle faster driving and harder braking without falling apart.
“Track prepped” means a car has been modified or set up for circuit use rather than just street driving. Common changes include safety equipment, suspension tuning, and brake upgrades so the car can handle repeated hard use.
cage
"And this Dutton had a cage, the right sort of cage and set up, that looked like it was a proper track."
A “cage” is a roll cage inside the car. It’s there to make the cabin stronger and help protect you if the car gets into a serious accident.
A “cage” is shorthand for a roll cage—an internal metal frame that strengthens the cabin and improves occupant protection during crashes. Track cars often add a cage because it helps maintain structural integrity under high loads.
Mclaren 570
"Was it next to a McLaren 570 or something like that?"
“McLaren 570” likely means the McLaren 570S, a modern supercar. The host is basically saying the Dutton looked like it belonged in the same track crowd as cars like that.
The “McLaren 570” is almost certainly the McLaren 570S, a lightweight, track-capable supercar from McLaren’s Sports Series. Mentioning it alongside the Dutton emphasizes the contrast between a classic/modified car and modern supercar track culture.
screw stickers
"And it was covered in screw stickers, and you could see the..."
This sounds like stickers that are attached more permanently than normal decals. It’s part of the “lived-in” track-car look the speaker is describing.
“Screw stickers” likely refers to stickers that are physically fastened (or have hardware/fasteners) rather than just stuck on with adhesive. On track cars, this can be a sign of long-term use and a “show-me-the-history” look.
repaired fiberglass
"There were bits of repaired fiberglass where it obviously had an argument with somebody in a corner."
“Repaired fiberglass” means some of the car’s fiberglass body parts were damaged and then fixed. Track cars often get scuffs or cracks, and fiberglass is a common material for repair.
“Repaired fiberglass” suggests bodywork damage that was fixed using fiberglass composite materials. Fiberglass repairs are common on track-prepped cars because panels can get scraped or cracked during close racing or corner incidents.
track incident / "argument in a corner"
"where it obviously had an argument with somebody in a corner. But not a... you know, just a sort of friendly argument, not a pig."
They’re basically saying the car has been through a minor on-track scrape or bump. The repairs make it look like a real track car that gets used, not a show-only car.
The host describes prior contact as a “friendly argument” rather than something catastrophic, which is a common way enthusiasts talk about minor track incidents. The key idea is that visible repair history can indicate the car is actively used, not just displayed.
engine
"It was busting to know what the engine was,"
They’re excited to find out what engine the car has. On track cars, the engine choice and tune can be a major part of why it feels fast and how it behaves on track.
The speaker says they were “busting to know what the engine was,” which highlights how engine choice is a big part of what makes a track car interesting. On modified cars, the engine can be swapped or tuned significantly, changing character and performance.
individual vehicle approval
"Yeah, you can still do individual vehicle approval. And depending on which..."
Individual Vehicle Approval is an inspection process for cars that aren’t built in the usual factory way. An authority checks that the finished car meets safety and legal requirements before it can be registered.
Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) is a regulatory process used in some places to inspect and approve a vehicle that isn’t built to a standard mass-production type approval. It typically checks safety, emissions, and construction standards before the car can be registered.
centre you go to
"From memory, depending on which centre you go to... Because I think when you build an aircraft..."
They’re saying that where you take the car for approval can affect how the process goes. Different offices can have different procedures or expectations.
The transcript suggests that the outcome or experience of approval can vary depending on which approval “centre” you use. That can matter for kit cars because inspectors may interpret requirements differently or have different processes and wait times.
IVA scene
"And I think it depends on who you meet [812.5s] in the IVA scene as to how... [819.9s] how encouraging they want to be. [822.2s] Like, maybe they get a vibe [823.0s] depending on who's going..."
In the UK, some cars—especially kit cars—have to be individually checked and approved before they can be driven on the road. The “IVA scene” is basically the group of people who help others understand that approval process.
“IVA” refers to the UK Individual Vehicle Approval process, used to certify a vehicle that isn’t built to an existing type approval (common for kit cars). The “IVA scene” is the community around getting these cars approved and road-legal, and different people can have different levels of encouragement or guidance.
grand master of kit cars
"...you can get individual vehicle approval. [827.6s] So Tim Dutton has described [831.0s] the grand master of kit cars [832.8s] and has unveiled his first new kit car"
They’re praising Tim Dutton as a major, long-time figure in the kit-car hobby. It’s basically saying he’s one of the most influential people in that community.
This is a descriptive label for Tim Dutton’s long-standing influence in the kit-car world, implying he’s a major figure in designing and selling kit cars. It’s less a technical term and more a way to frame his credibility and legacy in the scene.
amphibious car
"then decided he would like to buy an amphibious car. Oh, the Dutton Aquada. Yeah."
An amphibious car is made to go on roads and also move in water. It needs special sealing and a way to push itself through water—otherwise it would just take on water and stall.
An amphibious car is engineered to operate on both land and water. That usually means waterproofing critical systems, adding a way to propel in water (often a dedicated propeller or jet), and designing the body to handle water ingress and stability.
Dutton Aquada
"then decided he would like to buy an amphibious car. Oh, the Dutton Aquada. Yeah."
The Dutton Aquada is a rare kind of car that can drive on roads and also move through water. It’s not a normal “car that can ford a puddle”—it’s built with systems to actually propel itself on water.
The Dutton Aquada is a classic British amphibious car concept associated with the Dutton company. Amphibious cars are designed to move on both land and water, typically using a water propulsion setup and sealing/waterproofing for key components.
Volkswagen Phaeton
"[901.5s] was a Phaeton. [902.6s] Yes. [903.0s] I couldn't tell you which..."
The Volkswagen Phaeton is a big, luxury car from Volkswagen. It was meant to feel like a top-tier premium sedan, even though it wasn’t sold in very large quantities.
The Volkswagen Phaeton is a luxury sedan Volkswagen built to compete with premium brands. It’s known for being a “halo” car that shares many engineering ideas with other VW Group vehicles, but it never sold in huge numbers.
Mazda Mx5
"[922.7s] maybe it was John Evans [923.3s] who wrote this. [924.0s] Anyway, it's based on a Mark III [925.1s] Mazda Mx5 [927.0s] which is quite a popular donor"
The Mazda MX-5 is the Miata, a lightweight roadster. “Mark III” just means one particular generation of that car, and saying something is based on it usually means it uses the MX-5’s underlying parts.
“Mark III” refers to a specific generation of the Mazda MX-5 (Miata). In this context, the hosts say the car being discussed is based on a Mark III MX-5, meaning the MX-5’s platform and mechanicals are likely the foundation.
donor car
"[925.1s] Mazda Mx5 [927.0s] which is quite a popular donor"
A “donor car” is basically the car you take parts from. People like using popular donor cars because their parts are easier to get and swaps are more straightforward.
A “donor car” is a vehicle used as a parts source for another build or conversion. When something is based on a popular donor, it usually means the donor’s parts are easy to find and the swap is well-trodden.
kit car magazine
"He runs his own Kit Car magazine. Yeah, TKC, I think."
They’re referencing a magazine for kit cars, which are cars you build from a kit. People in this hobby often reuse parts from other cars to make the project cheaper and easier.
The segment mentions a “Kit Car magazine,” which points to the kit-car hobby ecosystem—publishers, builders, and communities focused on assembling cars from kits. Kit cars often rely on donor parts and can range from simple body kits to full chassis-and-drivetrain builds.
TKC
"He runs his own Kit Car magazine. Yeah, TKC, I think."
TKC is mentioned as the name of a kit-car magazine. It’s likely a place where kit-car builders share advice and information.
TKC is referenced as the name of the kit car magazine run by Steve Hull. In the kit-car world, publications like this can be a key source for build guides, parts sourcing, and community knowledge.
track kit customer
"[963.5s] That's it, yeah. [963.6s] A track kit customer. [964.5s] Hello, Steve, if you're listening. [966.1s] He writes..."
This sounds like a person who buys a kit (or kit parts) mainly to drive on a race track. Track-focused builds usually aim for better grip and braking, not just everyday comfort. It’s a clue about the customer’s intended use.
A “track kit customer” suggests someone buying a kit car or kit components specifically for track use—typically prioritizing handling, brakes, and weight reduction over comfort. In kit-car circles, track-focused builds often involve choosing parts and setup that suit circuit driving and regulations.
Kit Car industry
"[966.1s] He writes... [967.1s] He's another hero [968.1s] of the Kit Car industry. [969.1s] He's great. [969.8s] Yeah, I like Steve a lot."
A kit car is a car you buy as parts, then build yourself (or pay someone to build it). The “kit car industry” is the community of companies and people who make and sell those kits. It’s often how enthusiasts get into unusual or track-focused cars.
The “kit car industry” refers to companies and builders that sell cars as kits—parts you assemble yourself or have assembled—often to create a classic look, a specific platform, or a lower-cost entry into a niche. Track kits and kit-car communities are common in the UK and Europe, where regulations and builder support can make these projects more accessible.
Alpina
"[983.1s] Yeah. [986.5s] Alpina? [988.4s] Yeah. [988.7s] What do we know [989.9s] about the return of Alpina?"
Alpina is a company that takes BMWs and makes them faster and more special. It’s not just a cosmetic package—Alpina usually changes how the car drives. “Return of Alpina” means they’re coming back in some way, like to a market or lineup.
Alpina is a German tuner that builds performance versions of BMW models with its own engineering and tuning, rather than being a standard BMW trim. When the hosts talk about the “return of Alpina,” they’re likely discussing whether Alpina is coming back to a market or lineup and what that means for performance and pricing.
Bovenseepens
"You know, was this the family called Bovenseepen? The Bovenseepens, yeah, who are still involved in cars because they've unveiled their own version of a four-series, I think."
The host mentions a family or company that makes very limited-run, special cars. The exact name is a bit unclear here, but the idea is that they’re doing custom, small-batch work.
The transcript appears to reference a family/company involved in low-volume car work, described as still being involved in cars and unveiling a new version of a BMW 4-series-style car. Because the name is unclear in the transcript, this annotation flags the mention as a likely specialty coachbuilder/low-volume player.
coach-building
"So they're going to do a bit more low-volume, coach-building stuff as their next project."
Coach-building means making cars in a more custom, handcrafted way—usually in small numbers. Instead of a factory building everything the same, specialists tailor the body and details.
Coach-building refers to creating or modifying a car’s body and trim in a bespoke or low-volume way, often for a specific customer or small run. In modern terms, it usually means specialized craftsmanship and customization rather than mass production.
Max Mussoni
"but they've hired this excellent designer called Max Mussoni, who was previously at Polestar."
Max Mussoni is a car designer. The hosts are saying BMW hired him, and they mention he previously worked at Polestar, so he likely influences the look and feel of what BMW is planning.
Max Mussoni is a designer the hosts mention as being hired for BMW-related work. They also connect his background to Polestar, implying he brings experience from the EV brand’s design culture.
Polestar
"who was previously at Polestar. Yeah. And he was responsible for all that,"
Polestar is a brand that makes electric cars. The hosts are using it as a clue about the designer’s background and the kind of modern, clean design style he’s associated with.
Polestar is an EV-focused automaker/brand known for modern, minimalist design language. The hosts reference it to explain why Mussoni’s design style is expected to be “extremely nice” and clean-looking.
Scandinavidians
"all those extremely nice, shapely, clean-looking, Scandinavidians"
They’re basically describing a Scandinavian design look—simple, clean, and not overly flashy. The point is that the cars/designs they’re talking about have a modern, tidy style.
“Scandinavidians” appears to be a playful reference to Scandinavian design—typically meaning clean lines, minimal ornamentation, and a functional, modern aesthetic. The hosts are using it to describe the designer’s style as “shapely” and “clean-looking.”
Tesla
"You can launch a new car company because Tesla sells a lot of cars from a standing start. Yeah. I mean, it's taken 15 years, but they sell a lot of cars."
Tesla is a car company that started fresh and still managed to sell a lot of cars. The point they’re making is that new brands can succeed, but it usually takes a long time to get going.
Tesla is a relatively new automaker that proved you can launch a car brand and sell large volumes without inheriting an old dealer network. The key idea is that starting from scratch is possible, but it typically takes many years to build products, manufacturing, and demand.
launch a new car company from a standing start
"You can launch a new car company because Tesla sells a lot of cars from a standing start. Yeah. I mean, it's taken 15 years, but they sell a lot of cars."
This phrase means starting a car brand almost from zero—no big history or established customer base. Even if the company succeeds later, it often takes years to build the cars, production, and demand.
“From a standing start” means starting a car brand with no existing legacy—no established reputation, supply chain, or dealer footprint. The hosts are contrasting that with how long it can take to ramp up sales, even when the company eventually sells a lot of cars.
BYD
"Yeah. And there are other brands like BYD that are brand new and sell a lot of cars. Yeah."
BYD is a newer car brand that has grown fast and sells a lot of cars. They’re mentioning it to show that even brand-new companies can become big players.
BYD is a newer, high-volume automaker that has grown quickly by scaling production and focusing heavily on electrified vehicles. In this discussion, it’s used as another example that brand-new companies can become major sellers.
Volvo
"I think if you own a name like Volvo, would they have had this conversation internally and go on, do we launch a new brand or do we just..."
Volvo is a major Swedish automaker with a strong brand identity around safety and, more recently, electrification. Here, Volvo is used as the example of a legacy brand whose internal strategy might influence whether a new sub-brand (like Polestar) is launched.
launch a new brand
"do we launch a new brand or do we just... Because a lot of what the Polestar stands for..."
This is the question of whether a car company should make a brand that stands on its own, or just treat it like part of the existing brand. A separate brand can be harder for people to understand at first, but it can also make the product feel more distinct.
This is about brand architecture—whether a company creates a fully separate marque or uses a sub-brand/extension strategy. The choice affects how customers interpret product positioning, marketing clarity, and whether the new identity needs extra explanation.
petrol cars
"also, you know, Alpenas have been potent petrol cars."
“Petrol cars” means vehicles powered by gasoline (internal combustion) rather than electric or hybrid power. The hosts’ wording suggests the “Alpenas” have a reputation for being energetic or performance-oriented in a traditional combustion sense.
EV era
"Here we are in the EV era. You know, is that what's what's the case for an Alpena EV?"
“EV era” just means the time when more cars are electric instead of gas. Automakers are changing how they build and sell cars to match that shift.
“EV era” refers to the shift from internal-combustion vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs). It’s a shorthand for how automakers are redesigning platforms, supply chains, and marketing around batteries and electric drivetrains.
Alpenas
"because my favourite Alpenas are 3-series sized, but I suppose they've gone mobile that we're relaunching Alpena as a performance sub-brand, but it's about elegant performance and quietness."
They’re talking about “Alpenas” like it’s a performance brand or sub-brand. The point is that it’s meant to feel refined and quiet, not just loud and sporty.
“Alpenas” is mentioned as a favorite, but the context suggests it’s being discussed as a performance sub-brand. The hosts connect it to BMW 3-series sizing and to the idea of relaunching it with a focus on “elegant performance and quietness.”
M-Sport versions
"if they launched that on a 3-series, they do M-Sport versions of 2-series, 3-series, 5-series."
“M Sport” is BMW’s sporty trim package. It usually makes the car look and feel more performance-oriented, even if it’s not the full high-performance “M” cars.
“M-Sport” (often written as “M Sport”) refers to BMW’s styling and equipment package that typically adds sportier looks and some performance-oriented tuning. It’s not the same as a full BMW M model, but it’s meant to make the car feel more driver-focused.
clear air
"So maybe, actually, they need to set the clear air"
“Clear air” here sounds like they mean “make things clearer” or “set a clean starting point.” It’s not a specific car part—more of a discussion about how to frame the idea.
“Set the clear air” sounds like a reference to creating space or a clean baseline—often used in automotive contexts to mean removing noise/uncertainty so a message or product positioning is clear. In this segment, it appears to be a rhetorical wrap-up about how the brand should be presented.
M-Sport BMWs
"And you, because, as you say, there's the M-Sport BMWs already in. Yeah. What's that about?"
M-Sport is BMW’s performance branding that usually means a sportier version of a BMW—more aggressive look and driving feel. The hosts are basically asking why there are already M-Sport BMWs if another performance label is coming.
M-Sport is a performance-focused branding associated with BMW’s motorsport and tuning ecosystem, often linked to cars prepared by BMW’s partner/department for sportier styling and handling. In this discussion, it’s used to illustrate how overlapping performance sub-brands can confuse the lineup.
access to designs and technical information well in advance of a car going into production
"[1365.4s] gave them access [1366.3s] to designs [1367.9s] and technical information [1369.4s] well, well in advance [1370.4s] of a car going into production."
They’re talking about giving suppliers or partners information early—before the car starts being built in large numbers. When people plan with the right details ahead of time, it’s easier to avoid mistakes and last-minute changes. That usually makes the production launch smoother.
This describes an early-supplier/early-engineering workflow where partners get design documents and technical data before the vehicle starts mass production. That lead time helps reduce late changes, tooling delays, and integration problems because components can be engineered and validated in parallel. It’s a common strategy in modern automotive development to improve launch quality and shorten time-to-market.
BMW 320D
"[1372.1s] Yeah. [1372.3s] And there was a time [1373.0s] when the D3 [1374.8s] basically just rolled down [1375.8s] the three-series, [1376.9s] 320D production [1378.5s] line"
A BMW 320d is a BMW 3 Series car that uses a diesel engine. The “320d production line” means the factory line where that car is built. They’re saying that line didn’t need many updates for a while.
The BMW 320d is a 3 Series model powered by a diesel engine (the “d” denotes diesel). In the transcript, it’s used as an example of a production line that saw minimal changes over time, highlighting how BMW’s manufacturing and supplier relationships can stay stable. “320d production line” here refers to the factory process for that specific model/engine setup.
Mclaren F1
"I mean, they provided the engine for the McLaren F1. Mm-hmm."
The McLaren F1 is a famous, very high-performance supercar. The point here is that it wasn’t built in isolation—its engine came from a major partner, showing how big companies team up to make top cars.
The McLaren F1 is a landmark supercar known for its race-bred engineering and unusual design choices for its era. In this segment, the hosts mention that the company provided the engine for the McLaren F1, which highlights how major suppliers and partnerships can shape a halo car.
image thing
"It's a... I wonder if it's an image thing"
They’re basically saying the companies might be doing it to look good. Sometimes partnerships are about reputation—so people associate the brand with performance or prestige.
The hosts speculate that the motivation for the partnership might be “an image thing,” meaning reputation and brand perception. In automotive business, high-profile collaborations can be used to signal engineering credibility, heritage, or exclusivity even if the direct financial return is unclear.
BMW 7 Series
"So, yes, it's going to be the 7 Series and X7. We'll be a heavily overhauled later this year in line with BMW's strategy of rolling out its new class of design and technology elements. ...asked if Alpenas would also offer EVs, given the 7 Series is offered with both combustion and electric power."
The BMW 7 Series is BMW’s top-of-the-line luxury car. Here they’re saying BMW plans to offer it with both traditional gas power and electric power, depending on the version.
The BMW 7 Series is BMW’s flagship luxury sedan, known for advanced comfort tech and powertrains. In this segment, it’s referenced as being offered with both combustion and electric power, which points to BMW’s shift toward electrification across its lineup.
BMW X7
"So, yes, it's going to be the 7 Series and X7. We'll be a heavily overhauled later this year in line with BMW's strategy of rolling out its new class of design and technology elements."
The BMW X7 is BMW’s large luxury SUV, positioned above the X5 and aimed at buyers who want space plus high-end features. The hosts group it with the 7 Series as part of BMW’s upcoming design/technology overhaul and electrification direction.
EVs
"And apparently, asked if Alpenas would also offer EVs, given the 7 Series is offered with both combustion and electric power. BMW Group R&D chief Joachim Post"
EVs are cars that use electricity from a battery instead of relying on a gas engine. They’re asking whether the new “Alpenas” model family will also come in an electric version.
EVs (electric vehicles) run primarily on electricity stored in a battery, rather than burning fuel in an engine. The segment uses EVs to question whether the upcoming “Alpenas” line will also be offered with electric power, especially since the 7 Series already has both combustion and electric versions.
combustion and electric power
"asked if Alpenas would also offer EVs, given the 7 Series is offered with both combustion and electric power. BMW Group R&D chief Joachim Post"
This phrase means BMW is planning cars that can use gas engines and also electric options. The point is that the same model line may come in different powertrain versions.
“Combustion and electric power” implies a lineup that can include traditional internal-combustion engines and electrified variants (like hybrids or fully electric models). The key idea is that BMW is structuring its future products so customers can choose different powertrain types within the same model family.
BMW Group R&D chief Joachim Post
"given the 7 Series is offered with both combustion and electric power. BMW Group R&D chief Joachim Post"
Joachim Post is BMW’s top person for research and development. When he’s mentioned, it usually means the talk is about BMW’s future plans for technology and powertrains.
Joachim Post is BMW’s Research & Development leader, so his comments typically reflect the company’s technical roadmap. In this segment, he’s tied to the discussion about BMW’s strategy for new design/technology and electrification.
modifying existing cars
"And... I can't help wondering whether somebody of that talent... with the talent to create whole cars, whether it isn't slightly lesser job to just be modifying existing cars."
They’re talking about two ways people can work on cars. One is designing a car from scratch, and the other is taking an existing car and changing it. The discussion is about whether those are equally “big” jobs.
The hosts are contrasting two approaches in car building: creating a car from the ground up versus modifying an existing platform. In the automotive world, “modifying” can range from light tuning to full restomods, but it usually means working within an existing engineering baseline.
create whole cars
"And... I can't help wondering whether somebody of that talent and, you know, with the talent to create whole cars, whether it isn't slightly lesser job to just be modifying existing cars."
They mean building a car as a complete project, not just changing parts of an existing one. That usually involves a lot more engineering work, planning, and testing.
“Creating whole cars” refers to designing and engineering an entire vehicle—platform, powertrain integration, safety systems, and packaging—rather than focusing on aftermarket changes. It’s a much broader and more resource-intensive process than tuning or styling updates.
body kits
"[1504.4s] a job given to a sort of junior designers, [1506.6s] to design body kits [1507.6s] and wheel types"
A body kit is extra exterior parts added to a car to change how it looks. It can also affect how the car sits and how the wheels fit under the fenders.
A body kit is aftermarket (or sometimes OEM) exterior styling hardware—like bumpers, side skirts, and spoilers—meant to change the car’s look and sometimes its aerodynamics. Wheel and tire fitment often changes too, because wider or different wheels may be needed to match the new bodywork.
wheel types
"[1506.6s] to design body kits [1507.6s] and wheel types [1508.6s] and, you know,"
Wheel types just means different kinds of wheels—like different designs and sizes. Changing wheels can change how the car drives and whether everything fits correctly.
“Wheel types” refers to different wheel designs and specifications such as size, width, offset, and material/finish. Those choices affect fitment, ride comfort, steering feel, and even brake clearance.
facelift
"[1512.2s] Shush it up a bit for... [1514.5s] a facelift. [1515.6s] Maybe they're trying to,"
A facelift is when a car gets a refresh partway through its life. Think of it like a “new look” and some updated features, but it’s usually not a totally new car.
A facelift is a mid-cycle update to a car’s styling and features without changing the whole platform. It often includes revised headlights/taillights, bumpers, interior tweaks, and updated tech or trim.
0-60 in under 7 seconds
"We each had to pick a dog-friendly car, even though neither of us has a dog that could do 0-60 in under 7 seconds and 40 to the gallon, I think."
“0-60” is how fast a car can go from standing still to 60 mph. If it’s under 7 seconds, it’s pretty quick for normal road driving.
“0-60” is a common performance metric that measures how quickly a car accelerates from a standstill to 60 mph. Saying “under 7 seconds” gives listeners a rough sense of how brisk the car feels in everyday driving.
40 to the gallon
"...even though neither of us has a dog that could do 0-60 in under 7 seconds and 40 to the gallon, I think. Yeah, that was it."
“Miles per gallon” tells you how far the car can go on one gallon of fuel. “40 to the gallon” means it’s getting excellent fuel economy.
“Miles per gallon” (MPG) is a fuel-economy measure, and “40 to the gallon” implies very high efficiency. In a head-to-head comparison, it’s used to balance performance with real-world running costs.
Alpina B3
"what would I drive every day? Probably an Alpina B3. Wow."
The Alpina B3 is a BMW-based car that’s been upgraded for stronger performance. It’s designed to be a daily driver, not just a weekend sports car. The podcast mentions it because it’s the kind of car someone would choose to use every day.
The Alpina B3 is a performance-oriented version of the BMW 3 Series, tuned by Alpina for a refined blend of power and everyday drivability. The podcast asks what someone would drive every day and answers “Probably an Alpina B3,” which underscores its role as a daily-use performance car. It’s discussed because Alpina models are often chosen by people who want more performance than a standard car, without sacrificing comfort.
head-to-head section
"...because when Sam Phillips, who runs our head-to-head section, said... lads, argue about these two, find a car and argue about it."
A “head-to-head” is a direct comparison between two cars. It’s meant to make it easier to see which one makes more sense for different needs.
A “head-to-head” format is where two cars are compared directly against each other, often to help listeners decide which one is the better buy. Here, the host Sam Phillips is describing how they pick cars to argue about, even without setting a strict budget.
hold their value
"And they seem to hold their value, like three or four-year-old one, was still 80, I think."
“Hold their value” means a car keeps a high resale price over time instead of depreciating quickly. The hosts use this idea to argue that these newer/desired Audi A2 variants remain expensive even after a few years.
alloy wheels
"they ride quite nicely because they work on that quite heavily, but they do fit very big alloy wheels. Great-looking alloy wheels."
Alloy wheels are lighter wheels than the usual steel ones. Lighter wheels can feel nicer to drive, but if they’re paired with big wheel sizes, the ride can get bumpier on bad roads.
Alloy wheels are wheels made from aluminum or similar lightweight alloys instead of steel. They can improve ride comfort and steering feel, but larger wheels often mean less tire sidewall, which can make the ride harsher on rough roads.
fiscal potholes
"Oh, well, if the numbers rolling, maybe it doesn't matter. You can just wait till their fiscal potholes. Yes, exactly."
They’re using “potholes” to mean money surprises. With cars, that could be unexpected costs like repairs or other expenses that show up later.
“Fiscal potholes” is a metaphor for unexpected financial problems—like repairs, depreciation, or running-cost surprises—that can “hit” you like potholes do to a car. In car ownership discussions, it usually points to budgeting risk rather than a literal road hazard.
ride quality
"Yeah, I've not got a much experience of the modern ones... And you were right about the the ride quality, because they handle very well, but still very flat ride."
Ride quality is how smooth and comfortable the car feels when the road isn’t perfect. You can have great handling but still feel stiff or “flat” over bumps, depending on setup.
Ride quality is how comfortable and controlled a car feels over bumps and uneven roads. The segment contrasts “handles very well” with “still very flat ride,” showing how suspension tuning and tire choice can balance control versus comfort.
run flat tires
"Yeah, and there was that time when BMW were running run flat tires, and the ride wasn't brilliant."
Run-flat tires are tires that can keep you driving for a short distance even if they get punctured. Because of their stiffer design, they can make the ride feel firmer than normal tires.
Run-flat tires are designed to keep working for a limited distance even after a puncture, using reinforced sidewalls. The tradeoff is that they can feel harsher and reduce ride comfort compared with conventional tires.
Michelin Pilot Sport
"And Alpina were fitting everything with Michelin Pilot Sport, whatever they were at the time, and they rode much more nicely."
Michelin Pilot Sport is a brand/model of sporty tires. The point here is that switching to these tires made the car feel more comfortable, even though the car still handled well.
Michelin Pilot Sport is a performance-oriented tire line known for grip and responsive handling. The hosts connect it to a smoother ride compared with run-flats, highlighting that tire construction and compound can strongly influence comfort.
springs
"well, we do this to the springs, that to the dampers, and finally, tires, tires, tires."
Springs are what help the car soak up bumps. If you change the springs, the car can feel softer and more comfortable—or firmer and more controlled.
Springs are the main suspension components that support the car’s weight and determine how it absorbs bumps. Changing spring rates or spring design can significantly improve ride comfort and reduce harshness.
dampers
"well, we do this to the springs, that to the dampers, and finally, tires, tires, tires."
Dampers are the shock absorbers that control the motion of the suspension. They help stop the car from bouncing after you hit a bump, making the ride feel smoother.
Dampers (shock absorbers) control how quickly the suspension compresses and rebounds after hitting a bump. Even with the same springs, different damper tuning can make the ride feel much more composed and less bouncy.
tires, tires, tires
"and finally, tires, tires, tires. And that was, you know, it was emphasized three times."
Tires aren’t just for grip—they also help smooth out the ride. If the tire has a thinner sidewall (lower profile), the car usually feels harsher over bumps.
Tire choice and tire sidewall height strongly influence ride quality because the tire itself acts like a secondary suspension spring. Wider tires and lower-profile tires generally transmit more road texture, while taller sidewalls can feel more compliant.
maintain the demarcation
"It'll be very interesting to see whether they can maintain the demarcation that has existed between the family and the company."
They’re talking about keeping a clear separation between two groups or identities. In car terms, that can affect how the brand feels to customers—like whether it’s still run in a more personal, traditional way.
“Demarcation” here refers to keeping a clear boundary between a family-run operation and a company (or between two organizational identities). In automotive contexts, this often matters for brand perception—whether the product still feels “personal” versus purely corporate.
electric technology
"“...the problem we have is that there’s electric technology, there’s plug-in hybrid technology...”"
Electric technology means the car is powered by electricity from a battery. It’s different from hybrids and from regular gas engines.
“Electric technology” here refers to fully electric drivetrains (battery-electric vehicles) that use an electric motor powered by a battery. The segment frames this as one of several competing powertrain paths alongside plug-in hybrids and internal combustion.
plug-in hybrid technology
"“...there’s electric technology, there’s plug-in hybrid technology, there’s internal combustion technology.”"
A plug-in hybrid is a car that uses both electricity and gasoline. You can charge it at home, and it can sometimes run on electric power by itself for a while.
A plug-in hybrid (PHEV) combines a conventional engine with an electric motor and a battery you can charge from an outlet. It can often drive short distances on electricity alone, but still has the fuel engine for longer trips.
internal combustion technology
"“...there’s plug-in hybrid technology, there’s internal combustion technology.”"
Internal combustion just means the traditional gasoline or diesel engine. It’s the kind of engine that makes power by burning fuel.
Internal combustion technology refers to engines that burn fuel to make power, typically gasoline or diesel. In the context of the segment, it’s being contrasted with electric and plug-in hybrid powertrains.
BMW iX
"...they had invested it all in, say, an iX or an i5, and nobody really wanted an electric Alpina..."
The BMW iX is BMW’s all-electric SUV. It’s expensive to develop and build, so the hosts are using it as an example of a big investment that might not pay off if demand isn’t there.
The BMW iX is BMW’s electric SUV, built on BMW’s EV-focused architecture. It’s part of BMW’s expanding electric lineup and is often used as an example of how expensive EV programs can be for automakers.
BMW i5
"...they had invested it all in, say, an iX or an i5, and nobody really wanted an electric Alpina..."
The BMW i5 is BMW’s electric 5 Series. The point here is that if a company puts too much money into EVs and people don’t want them, it can be a costly mistake.
The BMW i5 is BMW’s electric version of the 5 Series, positioned as a more mainstream EV option than larger or more niche models. The discussion uses it to illustrate how a company could sink money into EVs that don’t sell as expected.
legislative stuff of going
"...they were very worried about the legislative stuff of going, well, there was a time when BMW itself accidentally fitted the wrong ECU..."
Car makers have to follow different rules depending on where they sell the cars. The hosts are saying that regulation risk can make companies hesitant to invest heavily in certain products.
This refers to how regulations shape what automakers can sell and how they must calibrate vehicles for different markets. The segment highlights that EV and emissions compliance risk can influence corporate investment decisions.
ECU
"...BMW itself accidentally fitted the wrong ECU to a number of cars, sold them elsewhere with effectively the wrong ECU for the wrong market..."
ECU stands for Electronic Control Unit, the computer that manages engine and emissions-related behavior. The hosts are describing a compliance problem where BMW allegedly used the wrong ECU calibration for the market, leading to regulatory penalties.
Nürburgring
"So the, there are some great old Alpina classics, aren't there? Is that, that, you know that Nurburgring, no, hang on, I'm thinking wrongly."
The Nürburgring is a famous German motorsport circuit often used as a benchmark for car performance and handling. The speaker briefly brings it up, then corrects themselves, suggesting they were about to reference a racing/benchmark connection but decided it was the wrong one.
AMG
"I was just thinking, I was about to attribute a, an AMG, original AMG car to Alpina. Oh yes."
AMG is Mercedes-Benz’s performance division, known for building high-performance engines and complete performance packages. The hosts mention “an AMG original AMG car” in the context of mixing up which brand made which classic, which is a common confusion because both Alpina and AMG are performance-focused German brands.
Six points range
"[1938.4s] Yeah, yeah. [1938.4s] They're kind of bad. [1940.2s] The big red ones. [1940.9s] Six points range. [1941.7s] Yeah."
That phrase is likely about money—how expensive the car is—rather than how the car works. When people talk about “six figures,” they mean the price is in the hundreds of thousands (or at least $100k+).
“Six points range” sounds like a reference to a six-figure price range (e.g., $100,000+), rather than a technical specification. In car talk, hosts often use this kind of phrasing to quickly communicate how expensive a model is.
Dodge Charger
"[1952.3s] do a very nice looking charger. [1954.2s] If you, [1954.8s] if you get in touch with them, [1955.7s] they'll give you a swatch so you can check [1957.8s] your color of house [1959.9s] against the color of charger you want."
They’re talking about a “charger” they can make in the color you want. The exact car model isn’t clear from this snippet, but it’s definitely about customizing the vehicle’s look.
“Charger” here appears to be a custom vehicle being offered by the sponsor, and the discussion focuses on color matching. Without more context, it’s unclear whether they mean a Dodge Charger or a different EV conversion/custom build called a “charger.”
EV charger
"I have an, an Anderson-EV charger and had it, even before we were, they were involved with the pod. And, they did that very thing, just sent me color check."
An EV charger is what you use to charge an electric car’s battery. It controls how electricity is delivered so the car can safely charge. Different chargers can charge faster or slower depending on their power.
An EV charger is the equipment that converts electricity from your home supply into a form your electric car can use to charge its battery. Charger capability (like power level and connector type) affects how fast you can refill the battery.
Neil Yates
"The thing that's interesting is being built by a bloke called Neil Yates at a, at a business called Rally Prep."
Neil Yates is the person credited with building the car. That usually means it’s been worked on by a specific expert, not just bought off the shelf.
Neil Yates is named as the person building the car. When a specific builder is mentioned, it often signals a custom or specialist preparation rather than a factory-standard vehicle.
Rally Prep
"The thing that's interesting is being built by a bloke called Neil Yates at a, at a business called Rally Prep."
Rally Prep sounds like a specialist shop that works on cars for rally-style driving or performance upgrades. The hosts are saying the car was built by someone at that kind of business.
Rally Prep is mentioned as the business associated with Neil Yates and the build of the car. In this context, it likely refers to a specialist workshop that prepares cars for rally or performance use.
take delivery
"they've had the car out to, about to take delivery, but for various reasons, I haven't managed to get there."
“Take delivery” means the moment the buyer receives the car after it’s been prepared or completed. In car builds, delays between “ready” and “take delivery” can happen for logistics, paperwork, or scheduling reasons.
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