Episodes

Jim Gravina shares his journey from a young car enthusiast in Syracuse, New York, to a proud owner of a DeLorean. He recounts his early experiences driving with his grandfather and the influence of his father's 1980 Camaro, which was restored after years of neglect. Jim discusses his first cars, including a Chevy Cavalier and a Hyundai Sonata, before finally acquiring his dream car, the DeLorean, after years of longing. The episode highlights his passion for cars, the magic of his past, and the support of his wife, Daniela, as they navigate life together.

Norm Gieselman, known as the 'Mechanic of the Stars' on TikTok, shares his journey from heavy-duty mechanics to running an automotive repair shop. He discusses the challenges of customer service, the importance of social media in the industry, and the complexities of modern vehicles. Norm emphasizes the need for effective communication with customers about repair costs and the evolving landscape of automotive technology. The episode also touches on mentorship, the technician shortage, and the differences between commercial and consumer automotive services.

LG Energy Solution delays its Michigan battery plant construction with GM due to slower demand, while Stellantis progresses on its Canadian battery facility. BMW and other German luxury brands are raising prices in China amid declining sales. India’s car market shows potential for massive growth by 2047. Chinese EV startup Jomi aims to break the Nurburgring lap record with a powerful new electric SUV prototype. Tesla uses software options to help buyers qualify for federal EV tax credits, and lithium prices have dropped sharply due to oversupply. Rivian repurposes an old gas station into a solar-powered EV charging hub, and Ford extends the deadline for free Tesla charging adapters.

Colt from C Builds It joins Snail Trail 4x4 to talk about his off-road roots, learning by tearing things apart, and how he turned that into YouTube and sponsorships. The conversation covers his win in the OnX Off-Road Build Challenge with a leaf-sprung S10, what it took to make it dependable, and how it performed on tough trails and Ultimate Adventure. They also preview his next project: an AMC Pacer Speed build aimed at Baja-style racing, plus his plans for rock crawling and trail advocacy.

The discussion covers former President Trump's sharp criticism of UAW leadership and his stance on auto manufacturing in Mexico and China, alongside his promise to challenge EV regulations. Ford's shift from electric SUVs to super duty trucks in Canada is highlighted as a strategic move amid fluctuating EV demand and potential UAW strikes. GM's joint venture in China faces steep declines due to consumer preference for local EV brands. Tesla's U.S. sales drop notably, while the broader EV market grows. Challenges with robotaxis in China and advances in vehicle simulation technology also feature, plus Toyota's Land Cruiser launch in China.

Innovative technology from Pure Forge promises to revolutionize brake rotors, potentially allowing them to last up to 200,000 miles. Gordon Heidecker discusses the unique PVD treatment that hardens rotors and reduces brake dust, making them cleaner and more efficient. The episode also touches on the implications for fleet operators and the automotive industry's shift towards electric vehicles. Alan Michi from the Center for Automotive Research shares insights on industry trends, including the challenges of EV adoption and the importance of sustainability in automotive practices.

The Snail Trail 4x4 podcast tackles a big batch of listener voice mails, ranging from paint and branding ideas for off-road builds to recovery and trail etiquette debates. A standout PSA warns against “win to an axle” recoveries, explaining how one real-world attempt bent leaf springs and shifted an axle due to incorrect win geometry—physics always wins. The episode also dives deep into the controversy over national parks restricting photos/videos for profit, balancing wilderness serenity, access, and the value of adventure content. Calls from “Oklahoma” and others round it out with travel and project updates.

The US EV fast charging network is rapidly expanding, with projections that chargers will outnumber gas stations within eight years. Tesla may abandon its 4680 battery cell project due to production challenges. European car sales grew 3.6% in June, driven by hybrids, while EV sales plateaued. Volvo reported strong profits with BEVs making up 26% of sales. Volkswagen launched a new EV sub-brand in China, and BMW is testing innovative dual-rotor electric motors with startup Deep Drive. BYD plans to standardize advanced driver assistance systems on affordable cars within three years.

A wide-ranging Snail Trail 4x4 episode mixes giveaway logistics, upcoming NorCal meetups, and two big personal updates. Jimmy teases a secret project, then details the monthly giveaway: an Ultimate 9 drive-by-wire throttle controller with a safe “bypass to stock” failure mode. The hosts also cover review milestones and multiple tire/tool giveaways. Off-road talk turns into event planning for Rubicon and Jeep Jam (with trail access rules). The heart of the episode is camping at Lima Campground (rooftop tent, beach time, raccoon warnings, and campfire s’mores hacks) plus Jimmy’s ongoing 4Runner overheating diagnosis and wrap progress, alongside family travel plans to Southern California and Ireland.

Rising car repossessions in the US highlight financial strain from high interest rates and inflation, while subprime lending remains a concern. The EU auto market struggles with declining sales and plant closures. CDK paid hackers $25 million after a cyberattack. CATL claims its new LFP battery can last up to 2 million kilometers, potentially easing EV battery life worries. Tesla introduces protective accessories for the Cybertruck tailgate. Fisker sells off its Ocean SUVs at steep discounts following bankruptcy. Cadillac refreshes the Escalade with a massive 55-inch display and advanced safety features. The episode also previews upcoming discussions on innovative brake rotor technology.

GM CEO Mary Barra has scaled back the company's US EV sales goal to one million by next year due to limited market demand and production delays. Cadillac's Lyriq EV is now its second-best seller, with more EV models launching soon, potentially making one-third of Cadillac sales electric by next year. Industry forecasts predict EVs will make up half of US new car sales by 2030, despite recent cyberattacks impacting dealerships. Lucid Motors updated its efficient Air sedan lineup, while Stellantis faces supplier disputes and launches eco-friendly oil. Chinese suppliers are investing heavily in Mexico to access the US market, and extended-range EVs are gaining traction as a practical transition technology.

Greg Buckley, a seasoned technician and shop owner, discusses the importance of licensing and lobbying for automotive technicians. He emphasizes the need for technicians to learn to say 'no' to unproductive practices and the value of community and mentorship in the industry. Buckley shares insights on balancing work and personal life, the evolving work culture, and the significance of transparency in business operations. He also highlights the challenges of technician shortages and the necessity for better industry standards and recognition.

Sales shifts highlight Honda overtaking Stellantis in the US amid Stellantis' struggles and executive shakeups. VinFast delays its North Carolina EV plant but moves forward with a smaller Indonesian facility. Germany abstains from EU tariffs on Chinese EVs to avoid trade tensions, while Chinese automakers plan EU factories to sidestep tariffs. China challenges US EV subsidies at the WTO. JD Power finds EVs cheaper to own long-term in most US states. Bollinger Motors appoints a new CEO with GM and EV startup experience. China's EV price war intensifies, now impacting ICE vehicles, with significant discounts in the market. Chinese cars have dramatically improved crash safety, rivaling European standards.

Moab High Points covers the Snail Trail 4x4 crew’s love letter to Moab—its jaw-dropping red-rock canyon scenery, the “town as base camp” setup, and the signature traction/ledge-climbing feel that makes vehicles behave differently than in places like Sand Hollow. They also break down favorite trails and difficulty levels, from beginner-friendly fins and things to bigger challenges like Hell’s Revenge, Metal Masher, Top of the World, and the long-haul trifecta. Negatives include off-cam sections, taller rigs, and ongoing land/political pressures. The episode also includes giveaway and review incentives.

A lively discussion unfolds around the latest in automotive technology, including the much-debated Tesla Cybertruck and its performance failures. The hosts share humorous anecdotes about outdated car safety features and the absurdity of a recent ticket issued to a driver using a mobile app in a fast-food drive-thru. They also explore the future of electric vehicles, the potential for flying cars, and the evolving standards of what constitutes a 'nice' car. The episode wraps up with upcoming local car events and a reminder of the changing landscape of automotive culture.

A lively discussion on the current state of the used car market, including insights on pricing adjustments post-COVID and the impact of new car availability. The hosts share personal car updates, including brake upgrades and project cars, while debating the merits of various modifications. They also touch on the electric vehicle landscape, discussing charging costs and market saturation. The episode features a fun quiz segment, covering automotive trivia and pop culture references, making for an engaging listen for car enthusiasts.

Mickey Andrade joins the Right Hand Drive Guys to share his extensive automotive journey, from his early days in Ohio to his current role as co-founder of Throttle. He discusses his passion for JDM cars, particularly Skylines, and his experiences in Japan, including acquiring vehicles and the unique culture surrounding them. Mickey also dives into his collection of rare Nissan parts and catalogs, emphasizing the importance of enjoying cars rather than just collecting them. His insights on community and automotive culture make for an engaging conversation.

The episode covers major automotive industry developments including Italy's threat to seize dormant Stellantis brands for Chinese automakers, Tesla's Robotaxi event delay and its stock impact, and Volkswagen's software challenges delaying new EV models. Rivian struggles to secure federal funding due to its stance on unionization, while Jaguar drastically cuts its lineup to focus on electrification. Highlights from the Goodwood Festival include Audi's recreation of a 1930s race car and Ford's new Baja racer. Regulatory changes favor automakers with hybrid lineups, shifting competitive dynamics against pure EV makers like Tesla and Rivian.

Exploring the intersection of automotive and aerospace, this episode dives into the burgeoning world of eVTOLs (electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing vehicles) and why major automakers are eager to join the fray. Guests include Rick Wayinshall from Cloud Theory, who discusses real-time automotive inventory data, and Tim Jackson, author of 'Dude, Where's My Flying Car?', who shares insights on the future of flying cars. The conversation covers market dynamics, the evolution of electric vehicles, and the potential for eVTOLs to revolutionize urban transportation.

The Snail Trail 4x4 podcast’s “snail mail” segment turns into a lively mix of trail-planning advice, customer-service philosophy, and practical build talk. Callers weigh in on running trips with either tight itineraries or step-by-step schedules (especially for couples), plus the value of proactive updates to reduce anxiety. There’s also dog “seat belt” harness advice, tailgate armor platform requests for Ford trucks, overheating troubleshooting ideas (including radiator misting), and Samurai engine swap plans. The episode ends with detailed discussion of the tough “Hell Hole” corner and why there’s no bypass.

A deep dive into the significance of Customer Data Platforms (CDPs) in the automotive industry, featuring insights from experts Larry Bruce and Jeff Job. The discussion highlights the challenges of data silos, the importance of clean data, and the need for actionable insights. The episode emphasizes how AI can enhance data management and customer engagement, making it crucial for dealers to leverage technology effectively. With a focus on practical solutions, the hosts stress the importance of integrating systems to improve customer experiences and drive sales.

NorCal’s brutal heat wave kicks off the show, with talk of record highs, power outages (including Texas’s grid issues), and how Tyler/Jimmy dealt with home electrical and cooling problems. The hosts also run down a big slate of giveaways: Ultimate 9 throttle controllers, Walter drill/trimmer promos, tire giveaways, and review-based swag. Off-road wrenching stories include swapping a failing breaker, troubleshooting a dead 4Runner battery, and planning cooling upgrades. The standout segment is a conversation with Packed Toiletries about wag-bag/waste infrastructure studies for outdoor areas.

Chinese EV makers face profitability challenges despite rapid cost-cutting and a fierce price war, with only BYD and Liauto currently profitable. Ford's new Capri EV impresses with more range than its VW counterpart, while BMW leads German EV sales. The IIHS highlights that partial automation offers limited crash prevention compared to active safety tech. Generative AI is emerging in automotive manufacturing to predict defects and recalls, enhancing quality control. Meanwhile, OPEC's optimistic oil demand forecasts clash with more conservative global estimates. Plus, BYD's new compact electric SUV aims for Europe amid rising import tariffs.

Exploring the reimagined 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser, this episode dives into its off-road capabilities and design changes compared to its predecessors. Hosts Tony Kiroga and Eddie Alterman take the new Land Cruiser through rugged terrain, discussing its hybrid powertrain, retro aesthetics, and affordability. They interview Marcus Umlaufe, Toyota's general manager of truck strategy, who shares insights on the Land Cruiser's evolution and its place in Toyota's lineup. The discussion highlights the balance between luxury and ruggedness, making for an engaging listen for off-road enthusiasts.