Episodes

A lively discussion kicks off with the unveiling of the new Dodge Charger, featuring unique styling and potential EV performance. Victoria Scott joins as a guest host, sharing her experiences with a Buick Roadmaster and a Honda Beat, highlighting the charm of classic cars. The episode dives into the updated Toyota GR Yaris, exploring its enhanced power and new automatic transmission option. The hosts also engage in a light-hearted cheap car challenge, showcasing quirky off-road vehicles, blending humor with automotive passion.

China extends subsidies for new energy vehicles despite strong sales growth, signaling economic concerns. Ford cuts F-150 Lightning production to one shift, reallocating workers to boost Bronco and Ranger output amid lagging Ranger sales. Jeep teases its electric Wagoneer S with impressive off-road and performance specs, launching in fall 2024. Cadillac reports strong sales growth and expands Lyriq EV availability, while Bentley faces declining sales despite increased personalization. Hyundai invests heavily in India after losing ground in China due to geopolitical tensions. The episode also covers challenges with EV charging in cold weather and industry shifts toward software-defined vehicles.

Insights from Matthew Vatcha, CEO of Kerasoft, reveal how Tesla's innovative manufacturing techniques, such as unboxing and giga casting, are reshaping the automotive industry. The discussion highlights the significant cost reductions and efficiency gains these methods offer compared to traditional assembly lines. Vatcha emphasizes the challenges legacy automakers face in adapting to these changes, particularly regarding sunk costs and workforce implications. The episode also touches on the competitive landscape, especially with Chinese manufacturers rapidly adopting new technologies, potentially leaving legacy OEMs behind.

Jack Nehred, an automotive journalist, shares insights on the North American Car and Truck of the Year (NACTOY) awards, discussing the winners and the voting process. The Toyota Prius Prime takes home Car of the Year, while the Ford Super Duty is recognized as Truck of the Year, and the Kia EV9 wins in the utility category. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of electric vehicles and the importance of quality gasoline. Additionally, the panel debates the merits of hybrid versus electric options and the impact of vehicle choices on consumer preferences.

BMW is pioneering the use of human-like robots in its South Carolina plant, aiming to automate tasks in body shops and warehouses, potentially outpacing Tesla's Optimus robot. Nissan is pressuring suppliers for steep price cuts or threatening to move Rogue production to Japan, risking US manufacturing jobs. Tesla is gauging Chinese interest in the Cybertruck despite regulatory and tariff challenges. Ford is advancing its electric F-150 Lightning with an off-road Switch Gear variant. Meanwhile, BYD is aggressively expanding EV production in Indonesia, and Honda is boosting hybrid and EV offerings, including a fuel cell CR-V. Industry insights from Caresoft's CEO and Reuters' Joe White promise revealing benchmarking data.

A lively discussion unfolds around concept cars that should have made it to production, featuring hosts Matty J, Charash, Scotty Johnson, David Prince, and Rosie Ross. The crew shares personal anecdotes about their automotive projects and experiences, while also diving into the aesthetics and potential of various concept cars like the Hyundai Envision 74 and Mazda Vision Coupe. The episode highlights the importance of concept cars in shaping automotive design and innovation, alongside debates about the future of electric vehicles and market trends.

The Houston Auto Show is undergoing significant changes this year, with notable absences from Stellantis brands like Jeep and Ram. Rochelle Salinas discusses the impact of these changes and highlights new attractions, including a Ford Bronco simulator. The episode also covers EV battery disposal, emphasizing the importance of recycling materials from used batteries, and the upcoming motorsports events. Listeners will gain insights into the evolving automotive landscape and the unique experiences at the Houston Auto Show.

Rod Chong traces his path from go-kart racing in Vancouver to art school, music-video directing, and then game development—helping create racing mods that led to a role at EA and later the car-culture website Speedhunters. He now leads creative work at Race Service, a hub blending motorsports, fashion, gaming, and pop culture, including major Hot Wheels collaborations. The conversation also digs into craft vs. deadlines, immigrant/community support, classic-car frustrations, and how drifting evolved globally—plus barriers for Asian and other underrepresented drivers in pro series.

Inventory levels in the US auto industry are recovering but remain below pre-pandemic levels due to supply chain challenges. Chinese automakers like BYD and SAIC are expanding their vehicle shipping fleets to boost overseas sales amid domestic market saturation. Weimo plans to launch a Level 4 autonomous Robotaxi in the US later this year. Meanwhile, Stellantis is expanding its vehicle recycling service in Europe to create a circular economy for parts. A German company, Vey, is introducing a unique teledriving ride-hailing service in Las Vegas. Ram unveiled its first electric ProMaster van with multiple configurations and a 162-mile city range.

Antron Brown, a three-time NHRA Top Fuel champion, shares insights on his busy preparations for the upcoming 2024 racing season, including new liveries and partnerships. He reflects on the legacy of Don Schumacher, emphasizing the impact Schumacher had on his career and the sport. The episode also covers exciting upcoming events in drag racing, including an all-star shootout and the AB Motorsports pitside experience. Additionally, the hosts discuss notable moments in automotive history, including the debut of the Dodge Viper and the founding of Saturn.

Exploring the world of custom sheet metal parts, this episode features Jim from Senkatsu, a rapid manufacturing service that allows enthusiasts to turn their CAD designs into reality. The discussion covers the importance of design for manufacturing (DFM), common pitfalls in part design, and the benefits of using tools like Fusion 360 for creating manufacturable designs. Jim shares insights on material selection, the tab and slot assembly method, and how to avoid tolerance issues during fabrication, making it a valuable resource for anyone looking to create custom automotive parts.

Stellantis shakes up leadership by replacing its North American COO amid questions about labor contract impacts and brand performance. Elon Musk aims to increase his Tesla stake to push AI and robotics innovation, while India debates EV import tariffs affecting local manufacturers. Volkswagen explores solid-state battery partnerships as production challenges persist. Foxconn expands EV ambitions with new ventures and manufacturing deals. Panasonic plans higher-capacity battery cells, and Lamborghini celebrates record sales driven by SUVs and hybrids. Mercedes prepares a versatile new electric van, and Daimler Truck sees EV sales surge despite low overall growth. Porsche teases the all-electric Macan debut.

Loras College's Racing Club joins the podcast to discuss their Baja SAE project, an off-road vehicle designed and built entirely by students. The team shares insights into their engineering challenges, including using a 10-horsepower Briggs and Stratton engine and navigating competition regulations. The conversation also touches on their aspirations in motorsport and the camaraderie within the team. Additionally, the hosts review the 2023 Dodge Charger Super B, highlighting its features, performance, and pricing, while reflecting on its long-standing presence in the market.

BMW's CFO reveals that most of the company's sales growth now comes from EVs, with EV sales expected to double by 2026. BMW remains the top premium brand globally, but Tesla is closing in fast. Russian car sales are rebounding, driven by Chinese brands. Dodge's new EV Charger Daytona SRT design faces criticism for losing its muscular look. New tech to detect drunk drivers is in development but faces challenges. Nissan delays EV production in Mississippi, while expanding its current EV lineup. LG opens a US EV charger plant, and a new bio charger converts wood waste into electricity.

Car insurance rates are set to rise significantly in 2024, with an average increase of 12.6% nationwide. Divya Sangham from Lending Tree discusses the factors driving these hikes, including rising repair costs, increased claims, and a surge in car thefts, particularly catalytic converters and advanced driver-assistance system sensors. The conversation also touches on the use of recycled parts in repairs and the challenges faced by electric vehicle owners regarding insurance costs. Listeners will gain insights into how to navigate these changes and potentially save on their insurance premiums.

Sundarish Haragu joins the In Wheel Time Podcast to discuss the complexities of tariffs in the automotive supply chain, highlighting their impact on both manufacturers and consumers. The conversation delves into the tiered structure of suppliers and how tariffs can create both benefits and challenges for the industry. Additionally, Mr. Mars reviews the 2023 Ford Escape, detailing its features, performance, and pricing in comparison to competitors. The episode wraps up with a calendar of upcoming automotive events.

The 2024 Subaru Impreza RS is reviewed as a stylish compact hatchback, blending comfort and performance. The host highlights its sharp exterior design, spacious backseat, and user-friendly interior features, including a large infotainment screen. With a 2.5-liter boxer engine delivering 182 horsepower, the car offers good fuel efficiency. While the ride quality is praised, the host expresses a desire for a more performance-oriented WRX version. Comparisons are made with competitors like the Honda Civic and Mazda 3, emphasizing the Impreza's unique appeal in the compact segment.

Toyota is doubling down on engine development despite electrification trends, unveiling a boosted GR Yaris and several performance concepts at the Tokyo Auto Show. Tesla’s Berlin plant faces a two-week production halt due to supply chain disruptions caused by Red Sea shipping attacks, yet it’s expected to drive Germany’s auto production growth. European regulators are probing Chinese EV subsidies amid rising market share concerns. Ford experiments with sustainable olive tree waste parts, while Stellantis invests in diverse battery technologies. Meanwhile, Hertz plans to sell a third of its EV fleet due to high costs and market softness. The Detroit Auto Show returns to January, sparking timing confusion.

The 2023 Ford Bronco Heritage Edition is turning heads with its nostalgic design and modern features. Reviewers highlight its striking aesthetics, including the race red exterior and plaid cloth seats. The two-door SUV offers a powerful 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, with options for a V6, and a manual transmission that adds to the driving experience. Despite some road noise and a slightly inconvenient grab handle, the Bronco impresses with its off-road capabilities and comfort. Pricing starts around $44,305, making it competitive against the Jeep Wrangler.

Sergeant Steven Woodard from the DPS joins the In Wheel Time Podcast to discuss critical traffic safety issues, including new laws and the importance of crash protocols. He emphasizes the need for drivers to take pictures and exchange information at crash scenes, as well as the dangers of using road shoulders improperly. The conversation also touches on the rise of automated vehicles, the impact of street racing, and the alarming statistics surrounding traffic fatalities in Texas. Woodard shares insights on law enforcement's role in improving road safety and the challenges posed by emerging automotive technologies.

Sam Albert shares his journey of creating a Subaru WRX rally car powered by a Ferrari V8 engine. The episode dives into the challenges of this unique engine swap, including the technical hurdles of wiring, cooling, and adapting components. Sam discusses his background in rally driving, the importance of mentorship, and the satisfaction of DIY projects. The conversation also touches on the performance differences between turbocharged and naturally aspirated engines, as well as the implications of new rules in rally racing. Listeners will find insights into the world of rallying and the passion behind building a one-of-a-kind race car.

Inventory levels in the US auto industry have rebounded, with EV inventories notably higher than ICE vehicles, reflecting softening EV demand. Cummins faces a record $2 billion fine for emissions violations linked to RAM trucks. The UAW is making strides in unionizing foreign automaker plants, notably Mercedes in Alabama. BMW plans to convert its Munich plant to EV production by 2027. The US is on track to meet its goal of 500,000 public EV chargers by 2030, though challenges remain. Innovations in active suspension systems and Porsche's upcoming electric Macan highlight advancements in EV technology. Kia partners with Uber for new platform vehicles tailored to ride-share fleets.

Brian Scotto traces his path from a New York childhood surrounded by cars to building community through VW culture and organizing events like Full Moon Full Throttle and Dub and Grub. He explains why engineering didn’t stick—journalism and storytelling did—and how that creative, “pink collar” mindset shaped his content career. Scotto reflects on Hoonigan’s rise, the strain of fame, and the tension between audience expectations and creative energy. He also discusses Ken Block’s legacy beyond Gymkhana: opportunity, marketing disruption, and inspiring others. Now he’s focused on short-form collaboration and returning to his Volkswagen roots.

Mike Quincy from Consumer Reports joins the discussion to delve into the latest automotive reliability survey results, revealing insights on new car reliability based on extensive owner feedback. The conversation highlights trends in electric vehicles, with surprising data showing EVs and hybrids facing more issues than traditional combustion engines. The episode also features a review of the new Ford Bronco Heritage, showcasing its nostalgic design and performance, while comparing it to competitors like the Jeep Wrangler. The hosts share personal experiences and insights, making for an engaging and informative episode.