Episodes

The discussion covers Tesla's potential loss of full federal tax credits on certain Model 3 and Model Y versions due to battery sourcing rules, and the high cost of Cybertruck windshields. Cruise faces leadership shakeups amid investigations after a pedestrian incident. BMW gains approval for Level 3 autonomous testing in Shanghai. BYD expands EV sales in Mexico through department stores and malls. Volkswagen grapples with forced labor allegations in China. European automakers struggle with EV supply chains and regulatory challenges. GM announces key leadership changes, while Ferrari and Philip Morris collaborate on factory electrification. Kia returns to CES with new EV strategies, and Nissan's Ariya EV faces ongoing production issues.

Jonathon Thompson shares insights from the Digital Dealer conference, emphasizing the importance of high energy and effective partnerships in the automotive industry. He discusses innovative marketing strategies and the launch of Mojo technology, designed to streamline dealership operations and improve lead management. The conversation highlights the need for passion in using tools and systems, as well as the significance of customer service in vendor relationships. Thompson's experiences and advice aim to inspire dealers to maximize their marketing efforts and foster a positive culture within their teams.

Amelia Hartford joins Sung Kang for a deeply personal origin story that ties cars, grief, and Hollywood together. Hartford explains how losing her dad pushed her toward car forums, learning stick on an Infiniti G35, and finding family through the Bloomington Car Crew in Indiana. After a totaled Nissan 240SX and years of hustling in LA, she built a YouTube career rebuilding and drifting while pursuing acting—now landing a role in the new Gran Turismo adaptation. The conversation also tackles social media insecurity, gender bias in wrenching, and parallels between acting process and car-building.

David McCrishan and Tim Odom discuss the growing popularity of Japanese mini-trucks, known as KEI cars, and the challenges of importing and titling them in Texas. They explore the utility of these compact vehicles for off-road use and their appeal as economical options. The episode also features a review of the 2023 Ford Maverick Tremor, highlighting its off-road capabilities, pricing, and features, making it a versatile choice for those seeking a compact pickup.

Ram is planning to replace the V6 range extender in its electrified pickup with fuel cell technology produced by Symbio, aiming for production by 2025. Nearly 200 countries agreed at COP28 to phase out fossil fuels by 2050, marking a significant climate commitment. Battery swapping gains traction in China with Venutia's taxi fleet and partnerships for trucks, while GM is developing its own infotainment system, Altify, to improve safety and data integration. Tesla leads the US EV market, but legacy automakers like Hyundai and GM are gaining ground. Stellantis launches a battery design competition to cultivate new talent, and Scout Motors opens an R&D center in Michigan to tap into local expertise.

Steve Yarov from Dealer's Choice Auto Transport shares insights into the logistics of vehicle transportation, detailing how his company caters to a range of clients from individuals to exotic car dealers. The discussion covers the intricacies of moving vehicles across the country, including the challenges and strategies involved. Additionally, the episode dives into the history of the iconic Shelby Mustang, highlighting its evolution from the 1965 GT350 to the 1966 GT350H, and the unique features that made these cars legendary. The hosts also touch on automotive news and a recent car show award.

David from GT Auto Garage discusses the significant rebuild of the MCA Hammerhead, now known as Tanuki, focusing on the switch from an SR20 VE Turbo engine to a VR38 for enhanced reliability and power. The conversation covers the technical aspects of the engine, including its capacity, turbo setup, and the MoTeC electronics package for torque management. David shares insights on the car's performance improvements, weight balance, and the challenges of transitioning to full slick tires for racing. The episode highlights the pressure of maintaining the car's legacy while achieving new lap records.

The UAW has launched legal action against Honda, Hyundai, and Volkswagen, accusing them of unfair labor practices amid efforts to unionize non-union automakers in the US. Ford is cutting production of its F-150 Lightning electric truck due to shifting demand, while Renault and Volkswagen explore co-developing an affordable EV platform to compete with Chinese imports in Europe. The episode also covers Lucid's financial struggles, new government-funded EV charging stations, GM and Komatsu's fuel cell mining truck collaboration, and Mercedes-AMG's powerful hybrid performance upgrades.

Engaging discussions at the Digital Dealer 2023 event highlight the evolving landscape of automotive sales and customer service. Bob Gower shares insights on balancing high-tech solutions with personal touch in dealership operations. The conversation touches on the importance of customer experience, innovative service models like concierge-level care, and the need for dealerships to adapt to changing consumer expectations. With a focus on collaboration and problem-solving, this episode emphasizes the dynamic nature of the automotive industry and the opportunities for growth.

Rochelle Salinas joins the team to discuss the upcoming Houston Auto Boat Show, highlighting the unique combination of automotive and boating exhibits. The conversation touches on the challenges faced by the auto industry, including the absence of Stellantis due to strikes, and the evolving EV market. Jeff Zekin shares insights into Cuba's vintage car scene, explaining the historical context behind the classic cars still seen on the streets today. The episode wraps up with updates on the auto show and the importance of educating consumers in a tough economy.

Free EV charging leads to longer and fuller charging sessions, causing charger hogging, according to a Department of Energy study. Startup One replaced its CEO amid financial challenges and shifting EV demand. New York plans a congestion charge to reduce traffic, while Tesla faces scrutiny over autopilot advertising but gains federal tax credit for its Cybertruck. GM will revive the Chevy Bolt EUV with a new battery. Hyundai is innovating with deployable tire chains using shape memory alloys. Bosch cuts jobs due to EV transition, and China extends EV subsidies with stricter requirements. Ducati and Bentley collaborate on a limited-edition luxury motorcycle.

The latest In-Wheel Time Podcast dives into the world of Triumphs with guest Melissa Farrell from the Triumph Registry Car Club, sharing her journey and experiences with classic cars. The hosts also review the refreshed 2024 Kia Seltos, highlighting its design and performance. Discussions include automotive industry news, particularly around EVs and the challenges manufacturers face, such as supply chain issues and federal tax credit changes. The episode is packed with insights, humor, and a look at the evolving automotive landscape.

Rob shares his passion for the Leyland P76, reflecting on its significance in his life and the memories associated with it. The conversation dives into Rob's experiences restoring various cars, including a Mercedes and a Mustang, while discussing the challenges and joys of car ownership. Rob reminisces about his first car, the P76, detailing its history, modifications, and the plans for its restoration. The episode highlights the camaraderie among car enthusiasts and the excitement of bringing classic cars back to life.

Dive into the fascinating world of automotive wheels, customization, and car auctions with the In Wheel Time crew. The episode features lively discussions about the variety of wheels available online, including eBay experiences, and the importance of proper wheel care. Listeners will also enjoy a segment on car auction prices, highlighting surprising sales of classic vehicles like Cadillacs and Corvettes. Additionally, the show touches on automotive history, including significant milestones in car production and the evolution of diesel engines.

Excitement builds as 2024 approaches, marking a significant year for JDM car enthusiasts with the eligibility of iconic models from 1999. Bobby and Aaron discuss the anticipated arrival of the R34 GTR, Evo 6, and Silvia S15, exploring their potential market impacts and pricing trends. They also touch on the S2000 and other lesser-known models becoming legal, while reflecting on the vibrant car culture surrounding these imports. The episode captures the thrill of a new era in car importing and the nostalgia tied to these legendary vehicles.

China's car market rebounded strongly with a 25% sales increase, driven by new energy vehicles hitting over 40% market share. Tesla and Ford are notable exporters from China, while BYD expands into Mexico targeting Tesla Model 3 buyers. Volkswagen partners with Chinese tech firm Horizon Robotics to boost software development. Porsche invests in carbon capture technology and advanced 6G vehicle communication. Stellantis challenges California emissions rules, threatening job cuts. Safety experts criticize Tesla's Cybertruck design for pedestrian risks, though Tesla defends its safety. Tesla also shares its innovative 48-volt system with the industry to reduce repair costs. A tribute to Ken Block's final electric drift video closes the show.

A deep dive into the evolving automotive landscape, focusing on the resurgence of hybrids as a potential solution amidst the ongoing electric vehicle (EV) transition. Industry experts discuss the historical context of vehicle production, the challenges of EV adoption, and the implications of recent labor agreements on costs and supply chains. The episode features lively debates on the affordability of EVs versus hybrids, the future of internal combustion engines, and the potential impact of Chinese manufacturers on the market. Insights from guests Michael Robinet and Jack Nared add depth to the discussion.

Juan Carlos joins the In Wheel Time Podcast to discuss his passion for cars and ongoing projects, including a twin-turbo Audi R8 and a new Lexus LX600. The conversation highlights the evolution of automotive technology, tuning experiences, and the importance of car culture. The hosts also delve into automotive history, touching on significant milestones like the founding of Lancia and the last DeSoto production. The episode captures the excitement of car enthusiasts and the community surrounding automotive events.

Tesla is reportedly planning to produce its affordable $25,000 Model 2 at its Shanghai plant to regain market share from Chinese EV makers. Stellantis is experimenting with battery swapping technology in Europe through a partnership with Ample, while also challenging California's CARB over emission agreements. Political tensions rise as Republicans push to revoke Biden's EV mandates. Renault aims to drastically expand AI use to cut costs and emissions, and Honda teases bold new EV designs ahead of CES. Additionally, rising repair costs are shifting service patterns, Toyota expands battery recycling in the U.S., and GM's Hydro Tech advances fuel cell tech for heavy-duty trucks. The market sees a decline in low-cost models, potentially opening opportunities for Chinese vehicles.

Gary May joins the Car Guy Coffee Podcast live from the Digital Dealer Interbrew Series, sharing insights on the automotive industry's current challenges and opportunities. He emphasizes the importance of integrity in data reporting and the need for dealers to adapt their marketing strategies to connect better with customers. The conversation touches on mentorship for women in the industry, the significance of accurate data tracking, and the necessity for dealerships to take proactive measures in a changing market. Gary's enthusiasm and expertise shine through as he encourages listeners to embrace growth and innovation.

Stephan Papadakis talks from street-racing roots to building record-setting Honda drag cars, then pivoting into Formula Drift. He credits self-education—textbooks, eBay, and mentorship at engine shops—for becoming “the smartest person in the room,” and shares early mods on a 1991 Civic Si, nitrous street-race tactics, and the moment a rear-drive drag project nearly turned into a cockpit fire. He explains why he shifted from driving to team-building, how Tanner Faust’s feedback and “zone” made their drift success, and why community matters more than EV-era performance numbers.

The In Wheel Time Podcast takes listeners to the Gulf Coast Auto Shield car social cruise, featuring engaging conversations with BMW club members about their passion for cars and community. Notable guest Omar shares insights on their growing BMW group and their monthly meet-ups. The episode also includes an in-depth review of the Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat, highlighting its impressive specs, family-friendly features, and performance capabilities, making it a standout in the SUV market.

U.S. electric vehicle sales have surpassed one million units in under a year, growing four times faster than the overall market. This surge is impacting global oil demand, with EVs expected to reduce consumption by five million barrels per day by 2030. The episode covers tightening U.S. EV tax credit rules, challenges in domestic battery material mining, and shifts in corporate work policies at GM and Lamborghini. Neo plans to outsource battery production, Bosch is integrating generative AI in manufacturing, and Volkswagen introduces bi-directional charging for its EVs in Europe, enabling vehicle-to-home and future grid power capabilities.

Venus Toro Arenas and Courtney Paschal share insights from their experiences in the automotive industry during a lively discussion at the Digital Dealer Interbrew Series. Venus discusses her company, Winslo, which focuses on staffing and training, and the challenges of scaling a business. Courtney highlights her community involvement, particularly in combating human trafficking, and the importance of gratitude and team building in leadership. Their conversation emphasizes the value of communication, personal growth, and making a positive impact both in business and the community.