We’re Back! State of the EV Industry + Deep Dive with Kyle Conner
About this episode
The return of The InEVitable podcast features a deep dive into the current state of the EV industry with expert Kyle Conner. The discussion covers the performance and market positioning of various electric vehicles, including Rivian, Tesla, and the newly launched Lucid Gravity. Kyle shares insights on the evolving landscape of EVs, including the impact of Chinese manufacturers, the importance of charging infrastructure, and the challenges faced by legacy automakers. The episode also highlights the nuances of EV software and user experience, making it a rich resource for anyone interested in the future of electric vehicles.
WE’RE BACK! The InEVitable is unstoppable and back to ask and answer all sorts of questions about the future of the car, with one of the sharpest minds in the automotive scene, Out of Spec founder and man of the world, Kyle Connor.
proving grounds
"For instance, now we're at Hyundai Kia Proving Grounds. Unless we get a great sponsor."
Proving grounds are places where car companies test their vehicles to see how well they perform. They can have different tracks and obstacles to mimic real driving conditions.
Proving grounds are specialized facilities where automotive manufacturers test their vehicles under various conditions to ensure performance, safety, and durability. These locations often include tracks, obstacle courses, and other environments to simulate real-world driving scenarios.
Hyundai Kia
"For instance, now we're at Hyundai Kia Proving Grounds. Unless we get a great sponsor."
Hyundai Kia is a car company that makes vehicles under the Hyundai and Kia names. They are known for making reliable and affordable cars.
Hyundai Kia refers to the automotive group that includes both Hyundai and Kia brands, known for producing a wide range of vehicles from compact cars to SUVs. They have made significant strides in quality and technology in recent years.
Rivian R1S
"...ual motor, $70,000? Yeah, cheapest you can get an R1S. No options."
The Rivian R1S is a new electric SUV that is made for outdoor adventures and can go off-road. It's getting a lot of attention because it has a lot of space and cool features.
The Rivian R1S is an all-electric SUV designed for adventure, featuring off-road capabilities and a spacious interior. As a newcomer in the electric vehicle market, it has generated excitement for its innovative design and features.
Rivian R1T
"the best Rivians are the current, the latest, the second generation R1T, R1S, and then R1T,"
The Rivian R1T is a new electric truck that can drive off-road and has cool features. The latest version is better than the first one.
The Rivian R1T is an all-electric pickup truck known for its off-road capabilities and innovative features. The second generation offers improved performance and technology compared to the first.
BYD
"...the strongest one currently looks like BYD. You probably, X-pangs in there."
BYD is a car company from China that makes electric cars and batteries. They are becoming very popular around the world.
BYD is a Chinese automotive manufacturer known for its electric vehicles and batteries. It has rapidly gained prominence in the global automotive market, particularly in the electric vehicle segment.
NIO
"...NEO's got some pretty cool tech. But then if you talk to some of our colleagues..."
NIO is another car company from China that makes high-end electric cars. They are known for having cool technology in their vehicles.
NIO is a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer known for its innovative technology and premium electric cars. They focus on performance and luxury in the EV market.
EV credits
"Tesla Instagram ads about how the $7,500 EV credits going away in like two weeks."
EV credits are discounts you can get from the government when you buy an electric car. They help lower the price you pay for the car.
EV credits refer to tax incentives provided by the government to encourage the purchase of electric vehicles. In the U.S., these credits can significantly reduce the cost of an electric vehicle, making them more appealing to consumers.
Ram
"And then I just heard that Ram is going to kill the Ram full battery electric."
Ram is a brand that makes trucks and vans. They are known for being tough and good for work.
Ram is an American brand known for its trucks and vans, originally part of Dodge. It has gained a reputation for producing durable and capable vehicles, particularly in the pickup segment.
Ford Got Ford
"...a big percentage difference. And then you've also got Ford making a direct competitor to that with a much la..."
The Ford GT is a super-fast sports car that looks really cool and is built for racing. It's talked about because it's one of Ford's best cars and has a lot of history behind it.
The Ford GT is a high-performance supercar that pays homage to Ford's racing heritage. Known for its striking design and powerful engine, it represents the pinnacle of Ford's engineering capabilities and is often discussed in the context of performance cars.
Tesla Cybertruck
"...aims of pricing and how true they've kept. Like a Cybertruck for $39,000 or a Roadster, Roadster 2. Go back."
The Tesla Cybertruck is a new kind of electric truck that looks very different from regular trucks, almost like something from a sci-fi movie. It's made to be tough and has cool technology, which is why people are excited about it.
The Tesla Cybertruck is an all-electric pickup truck known for its distinctive angular design and durable exoskeleton. It aims to revolutionize the truck market with its advanced technology and competitive pricing, making it a significant topic in discussions about electric vehicles.
Tesla Roadster
"Like a Cybertruck for $39,000 or a Roadster, Roadster 2."
The Tesla Roadster is a fast electric sports car made by Tesla. It's known for being one of the quickest cars and has a long battery life, making it popular among car enthusiasts.
The Tesla Roadster is an all-electric sports car that was Tesla's first production vehicle. It is known for its high performance, including impressive acceleration and range, and has been a significant part of Tesla's brand identity.
Tesla Model S
"...remember when the Model S came out and he was explaining how it was the same price as a Ford Taurus."
The Tesla Model S is a high-end electric car known for being fast and having a long battery life. It was one of the first electric cars that people really liked and talked about.
The Tesla Model S is an all-electric luxury sedan that has been praised for its performance, range, and technology. It was one of the first electric vehicles to gain widespread popularity and is known for its innovative features.
Ford Taurus
"...how it was the same price as a Ford Taurus. And they're like, there were a whole bunch of variables in there."
The Ford Taurus is a family car that many people in the U.S. used to drive. It's known for being roomy and comfortable, making it a good choice for families.
The Ford Taurus is a mid-size car that was popular in the United States, known for its spacious interior and comfortable ride. It has been produced in various generations since its introduction in the 1980s.
Toyota Tacoma
"It's also the interior cargo capacity of a Toyota Tacoma and the footprint of a Mini Cooper."
The Toyota Tacoma is a type of truck that is strong and can handle rough terrain. Many people like it for its ability to carry heavy loads and go off-road.
The Toyota Tacoma is a mid-size pickup truck known for its durability and off-road capabilities. It's popular among those who need a versatile vehicle for both work and recreation.
Mini Cooper
"...and the footprint of a Mini Cooper. Right."
The Mini Cooper is a small car that is easy to drive and park in the city. It's known for its unique style and sporty feel.
The Mini Cooper is a compact car known for its distinctive design and agile handling. It's often favored for urban driving due to its small size and fun driving experience.
Ford Maverick
"A Maverick. Well, maybe just a little bit smaller Maverick because Tacoma's Colorado's Rangers are all too big."
The Ford Maverick is a smaller pickup truck that's easier to drive and park in the city compared to larger trucks. It's great for people who need a truck but don't want something too big.
The Ford Maverick is a compact pickup truck that offers a smaller alternative to traditional mid-size trucks. It's designed for urban use, providing versatility and efficiency.
Chevrolet Colorado
"...because Tacoma's Colorado's Rangers are all too big. They're big but they also have no space."
The Chevrolet Colorado is a mid-size pickup truck that is larger than smaller trucks like the Maverick. It's good for carrying heavier loads and has more space inside.
The Chevrolet Colorado is a mid-size pickup truck known for its balance of size, capability, and comfort. It's popular for both work and recreational use.
Ford Ranger
"...because Tacoma's Colorado's Rangers are all too big. They're big but they also have no space."
The Ford Ranger is a mid-size pickup truck that offers a good balance of power and comfort. It's suitable for work and everyday driving.
The Ford Ranger is a mid-size pickup truck that combines capability with a comfortable ride. It's designed for both work and leisure activities.
Lucid Gravity
"startup automakers like Lucid, I was driving the gravity. Like that is unfinished software at the moment."
The Lucid Gravity is a new electric SUV that aims to be very luxurious and perform well. It's getting talked about because it's from a new company trying to make a name in the electric car world.
The Lucid Gravity is an upcoming electric SUV from Lucid Motors, designed to offer luxury and performance in the electric vehicle segment. As a new player in the market, it has attracted attention for its innovative features and ambitious goals.
Tesla Model 3
"..., for those who don't know, Doug is a guy who did Model 3. Yeah."
The Tesla Model 3 is a smaller electric car that many people like because it's cheaper than other Teslas and can go a long distance on a single charge. It's important because it helps more people consider driving electric cars.
The Tesla Model 3 is a compact electric sedan that has gained popularity for its affordability, impressive range, and advanced technology features. As one of Tesla's best-selling models, it represents a significant step towards making electric vehicles mainstream.
Dodge Charger
"And since that February timeframe, Charger EV has come out. Yeah, that was a disaster."
The Dodge Charger is a big car that looks sporty and is known for being fast. There's a new electric version of it, but some people think it didn't turn out very well, which is why it's being talked about.
The Dodge Charger is a full-size sedan known for its powerful performance and muscular design. Recently, the introduction of the Charger EV has sparked discussions about the brand's transition to electric vehicles, though it has faced criticism for its execution.
Dodge Nitro
"I actually go to the Dodge Nitro."
The Dodge Nitro is a type of SUV that Dodge made between 2007 and 2011. It's designed to be tough and can handle off-road driving, but some people didn't like how it performed or how much gas it used.
The Dodge Nitro is a mid-size SUV that was produced by Dodge from 2007 to 2011. It is known for its rugged design and off-road capabilities, but it received mixed reviews for its performance and fuel efficiency.
Dodge Challenger
"...so from a fundamental standpoint, the Charger and Challenger has always been, to me, that is one of the last t..."
The Dodge Challenger is a powerful car that looks like the classic muscle cars from the past. It's often talked about with the Charger because they are similar and both are loved by car fans.
The Dodge Challenger is a classic American muscle car that emphasizes performance and retro styling. It is often discussed alongside the Charger, as both models share a platform and appeal to enthusiasts who appreciate traditional muscle car characteristics.
Dodge Hellcat
"...big V8s, love Hellcats..."
The Dodge Hellcat is a super powerful version of the Charger and Challenger. It has a special engine that makes it really fast and exciting to drive.
The Dodge Hellcat is a high-performance variant of the Charger and Challenger, equipped with a supercharged V8 engine that delivers extreme power and acceleration, making it one of the most powerful muscle cars available.
V8 engine
"...I mean, big V8s, love Hellcats..."
A V8 engine is a type of engine that has eight cylinders arranged in a V shape. It's known for being powerful and is commonly used in fast cars like muscle cars.
A V8 engine is an eight-cylinder engine configuration where the cylinders are arranged in a 'V' shape. This design allows for more power and torque, making it a popular choice for performance vehicles, including muscle cars.
burnout
"okay, if you had to make a muscle car electric, what is the first thing it should be able to do? Burnout."
A burnout is when a car spins its wheels while staying in one place, making a lot of smoke from the tires. It's a popular trick among car enthusiasts.
A burnout is a driving maneuver where the driver keeps the vehicle stationary while spinning the wheels, creating smoke from the tires. It's often associated with performance and racing culture.
electric car
"...Is it a muscle car? Is it an electric car? Talking about it as an EV..."
An electric car is a type of vehicle that runs on electricity instead of gasoline. They are better for the environment and can be cheaper to drive because they use less energy.
An electric car is a vehicle that is powered entirely or partially by electricity, using electric motors instead of traditional internal combustion engines. They are known for being environmentally friendly and often have lower operating costs compared to gasoline-powered cars.
EV
"...as an EV. As an EV, there are some qualities to it..."
EV means electric vehicle, which is a car that runs on electricity instead of gas. They are becoming more popular because they are cleaner for the environment.
EV stands for electric vehicle, which refers to any car that is powered by electricity. This includes fully electric cars and hybrids that use both electricity and gasoline.
battery
"...there are some qualities to it. It's got a relatively big battery."
A battery in a car stores electricity to make the car run. In electric cars, the battery is very important because it determines how far the car can go on a single charge.
In the context of electric vehicles, a battery is a device that stores electrical energy to power the vehicle's electric motor. The capacity of the battery is crucial for determining the vehicle's range and performance.
one-pedal driving
"...Then in terms of driving dynamics, the whole one-pedal driving was terribly tuned."
One-pedal driving lets you control the car's speed just by using the gas pedal. When you lift your foot off it, the car slows down, which can make driving easier in stop-and-go traffic.
One-pedal driving is a feature in many electric vehicles that allows the driver to accelerate and decelerate using only the accelerator pedal. When the driver lifts off the pedal, the car slows down, often using regenerative braking to recharge the battery.
$80,000 car
"The car drives as if they didn't want to build it and the lease prices are amazing. So when you evaluate it as an $80,000 car, terrible."
An $80,000 car is a vehicle that costs that much to buy. Usually, these cars are more luxurious and have better features than cheaper cars.
Referring to a car that has a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $80,000, which indicates a high-end or luxury vehicle. This price point often comes with expectations of performance, features, and quality.
frunk
"Yeah, why not just do frunks?"
A frunk is a trunk at the front of the car instead of the back. It's useful for storing things, especially in electric cars that don't have an engine in the front.
A 'frunk' is a front trunk, a storage compartment located at the front of a vehicle, typically found in electric cars where the engine compartment is absent. It allows for additional cargo space, making it a practical feature for many EVs.
Lyric
"So the Vistik is a bloated Lyric and you can see where they stretch the metal over the Lyric body, basically."
The Cadillac Lyric is a new electric SUV from Cadillac, known for its luxury features and modern technology.
The Cadillac Lyric is an all-electric luxury SUV that represents Cadillac's entry into the electric vehicle market, showcasing modern design and technology.
BMW M5
"...se except California, which is why I'm driving an M5 this week and not an EV."
The BMW M5 is a fancy car that goes really fast and handles well, making it fun to drive. It's a special version of a regular BMW sedan that many people admire for its performance.
The BMW M5 is a high-performance version of the 5 Series sedan, known for its powerful engine and sporty handling. It represents the pinnacle of BMW's engineering and is often favored by driving enthusiasts for its blend of luxury and performance.
Volvo EX90
"nope, that shouldn't do more than 500, but Volvo EX90 and Polestar III want more than 600 or more than ..."
The Volvo EX90 is a new electric SUV that focuses on being safe and environmentally friendly. It's important because it shows how Volvo is moving towards making more electric cars.
The Volvo EX90 is an all-electric SUV that emphasizes safety, sustainability, and advanced technology. It represents Volvo's commitment to electric mobility and is part of the brand's broader strategy to transition to electric vehicles.
Ford F150 Lightnings
"can charge up very quickly. I think we were estimating three and a half F-150 lightnings before you would need to fill it up again."
The Ford F-150 Lightning is an electric truck that can do everything a regular truck can do but runs on electricity instead of gas. It's getting a lot of buzz because it can charge quickly and has some cool features.
The Ford F-150 Lightning is an all-electric version of the popular F-150 pickup truck, designed to offer the same utility and performance as its gasoline counterpart. It has garnered attention for its rapid charging capabilities and innovative features, making it a key player in the electric truck market.
Tesla Model Y
"...lso, Vegas is a disaster because everyone's got a model Y and they are also Uber drivers."
The Tesla Model Y is a small electric SUV that can carry more people and stuff than a regular car. It's becoming very popular because it's practical and has a lot of modern technology.
The Tesla Model Y is a compact electric SUV that shares many components with the Model 3, offering versatility and spaciousness for families. Its popularity has surged, making it a significant player in the growing electric vehicle market.
Audi Etron
"Who's the best? So it's a J12 Tycon or e-tron GT. Yeah, hell you have it."
The Audi e-tron is a fancy electric SUV that looks stylish and drives well. It's important because it shows how Audi is getting into the electric car market with luxury features.
The Audi e-tron is a luxury electric SUV that combines performance and advanced technology with Audi's signature design. It represents the brand's commitment to electric mobility and is often discussed in the context of luxury electric vehicles.
Chrysler Pacifica
"...ou know what it looks like. Remember the Chrysler Pacifica, where it was like in between, not a minivan."
The Chrysler Pacifica is a minivan that has a lot of room for families and their things. It's popular because it has useful features and is comfortable to drive.
The Chrysler Pacifica is a versatile minivan known for its family-friendly features and spacious interior. It stands out in the minivan segment for its innovative technology and comfort, making it a popular choice for families.
Lucid Air
"was like just a disaster. Like, but air is pretty solid now. Now it's super solid."
The Lucid Air is a fancy electric car that can go really far on a single charge and is known for being powerful. It's important because it's one of the top models from a new company making electric cars.
The Lucid Air is a luxury electric sedan that has garnered attention for its impressive range and performance capabilities. As one of the flagship models from Lucid Motors, it represents a significant advancement in electric vehicle technology.
Tesla Model X
"...cause that car is so old at this point. Yeah. But model X. Yeah, this all day."
The Tesla Model X is a big electric SUV that has unique doors that open up like wings. It's popular because it has a lot of space and cool technology, making it great for families.
The Tesla Model X is a luxury electric SUV known for its distinctive falcon-wing doors and spacious interior. It combines performance with practicality, making it a popular choice among families and tech enthusiasts.
Cadillac Escalade
"...c SUVs in terms of like, I just want to have this Escalade IQ. Hell, yeah, I love that thing."
The Cadillac Escalade is a big, fancy SUV that has a lot of space and luxury features. People talk about it because it's seen as a symbol of wealth and comfort.
The Cadillac Escalade is a full-size luxury SUV known for its spacious interior, premium features, and commanding presence on the road. It represents the pinnacle of Cadillac's offerings and is often discussed in the context of luxury and status.
Gmc Sierra
"... podcast I do. For the Thor's Hammer Mode and the GMC Sierra EV-84. Right before we went on, I did a quick AI ..."
The GMC Sierra EV is an electric truck that can do everything a regular truck can do but without polluting the environment. It's important because it's GMC's first big step into making electric trucks.
The GMC Sierra EV is an all-electric version of the popular Sierra pickup truck, designed to offer the same rugged capabilities with zero emissions. It represents GMC's entry into the electric truck market and is noteworthy for its innovative features and performance.
Ford Super
"Oh, it's my super duty. I bought a Ford super duty. This is my own car."
The Ford Super Duty Lariat Tremor is a tough truck that can go off-road and has nice features inside. It's popular because it combines strength with comfort for drivers.
The Ford Super Duty Lariat Tremor is a heavy-duty pickup truck that offers enhanced off-road capabilities and luxury features. It represents Ford's commitment to providing rugged performance while maintaining comfort and style.
Ford F350
"And I'm 26,000. OK, and so an F-350 single-wheel. It's 12."
The Ford F-350 is a big truck made for heavy work and towing things. People talk about it because it's strong and reliable for tough jobs.
The Ford F-350 is a heavy-duty pickup truck designed for tough jobs and heavy towing. It is often discussed for its capability and durability, making it a popular choice among those who need a reliable work vehicle.
Ford Expedition
"Yeah, whatever. I was going to say Ford Expedition. I was going to say Ford GTD."
The Ford Expedition is a large SUV that can fit a lot of people and their stuff. It's popular because it's comfortable and good for families or trips.
The Ford Expedition is a full-size SUV designed for families, offering ample space and towing capabilities. It is often discussed for its practicality and comfort, making it a popular choice for those needing a larger vehicle.
Chevrolet Corvette
"...'d love to have a go on that. I also love the big Corvette. I haven't got a ZR1 or the horribly named Fax Ma..."
The Chevrolet Corvette is a famous sports car that looks great and goes really fast. It's loved by many for being a high-performance car that doesn't cost as much as some other super fancy cars.
The Chevrolet Corvette is an iconic American sports car known for its performance, sleek design, and affordability compared to other supercars. It has a rich history and continues to be a symbol of American automotive engineering.
Nissan Leaf
"...so for SUV the year, I think it's hilarious how a leaf is included in SUV of the year. But Nissan classi..."
The Nissan Leaf is an electric car that has been around for a while and is known for being affordable and easy to drive. It's important because it helped a lot of people start using electric cars.
The Nissan Leaf is one of the first mass-market electric vehicles, known for its practicality and affordability. It has played a crucial role in popularizing electric cars and remains a popular choice for eco-conscious drivers.
Tata Motors Aria
"I have three leafs. Look, the Aria. I think the Aria is a great car."
The Tata Motors Aria is a vehicle that can be used like an SUV or a minivan, making it good for families. It's talked about because it tries to meet different needs for drivers.
The Tata Motors Aria is a multi-purpose vehicle that combines elements of an SUV and a minivan, designed for family use and comfort. It represents Tata's efforts to cater to diverse consumer needs in the automotive market.
Porsche Macan
"The only thing cared. You know, I did that with a Macan when COVID hit. Oh, yeah."
The Porsche Macan is a small luxury SUV that drives really well and feels nice inside. People like it because it offers a sporty experience while still being practical for daily use.
The Porsche Macan is a compact luxury SUV that combines sporty performance with everyday practicality. It is often discussed for its driving dynamics and premium features, appealing to those who want a luxury vehicle without sacrificing performance.
Toyota RAV4
"on only because I'm a consumer car nerd, is the RAV4. Because I'm hearing not good things."
The Toyota RAV4 is a small SUV that many people like because it's dependable and good on gas. It's often talked about because it's one of the most popular cars for families.
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV known for its reliability, practicality, and fuel efficiency. It has consistently been one of the best-selling vehicles in its class, making it a significant topic in discussions about consumer preferences.
Subaru 360S
"Didn't do it. 360s in the gravity. That's how we end the five tests."
The Subaru 360 is a tiny car from a long time ago that people remember for its quirky look. It's talked about because it's a classic car that many car fans find interesting.
The Subaru 360 is a compact car that was produced in the 1960s and 1970s, known for its small size and unique design. It represents a nostalgic piece of automotive history and is often discussed among enthusiasts of classic cars.
Request an Explanation
Heard something you'd like explained? We'll add it to this episode.
Sign in to request explanations for terms you heard.
Want to learn more?
Browse our glossary for plain-English explanations of automotive terms, jargon, and concepts.
Help improve this episode
See something that's not quite right? Our annotations are AI-generated and can sometimes miss the mark. Click the flag icon on any annotation to suggest a correction.