Episodes

Tensions rise as UAW president Shawn Fain accuses Detroit automakers of bad faith bargaining amid looming contract expiration, prompting labor charges and political shifts. Meanwhile, Tesla unveils the refreshed Model 3 Highland with improved range and interior updates, alongside price cuts for FSD and some models. Hyundai-Kia continues heavy EV investment, with Kia surpassing Hyundai in U.S. sales for August. Jaguar Land Rover commits to slashing freight emissions with electric and biogas trucks. MINI reveals updated electric Cooper and Countryman models, blending new styling with extended range and performance options.

A lively debate unfolds around the future of electric vehicles (EVs) as industry experts discuss the challenges and skepticism surrounding their adoption. Eric Noble, a notable guest, argues that the current market for EVs is limited and heavily reliant on government incentives, while others highlight the need for diverse powertrains to meet consumer demands. The conversation touches on the historical context of automotive education, the impact of regulations, and the evolving strategies of manufacturers like Toyota and Volkswagen. Insights into consumer behavior and the potential for future innovations make this episode a thought-provoking listen.

The episode dives into the latest automotive industry trends, highlighting Labor Day car deals and the growth of electric vehicles (EVs). Guest Jim Sharifi from US News and World Report shares insights on current car inventory, financing options, and the impact of high interest rates on sales. The discussion also touches on the challenges facing EV adoption, including charging infrastructure and consumer acceptance. Recent automotive news, including recalls and company developments, rounds out the conversation, making it a comprehensive update for car enthusiasts.

The discussion covers key automotive industry developments including the Canadian union targeting Ford for contract negotiations focused on wages, pensions, and EV transition support. The Charger Hellcat tops US theft charts, while EVs rank among the least stolen vehicles. BYD is poised to surpass luxury automakers with strong sales and earnings. Highlights include Alpha's new supercar paying homage to the 1967 Stradale, the discontinuation and price hike of Ram's Hellcat-powered T-Rex, and Rivian's launch of an in-house electric motor reducing costs. Regulatory scrutiny of Tesla's Autopilot intensifies, and VW unveils its updated Pissade with hybrid options and modern tech.

Jenna Karam joins the Car Guy Coffee Podcast to discuss her role at Drive Centric and the unique culture of the company. The conversation highlights the importance of building relationships in the automotive industry, the innovative features of Drive Centric's CRM, and how their events foster community and learning among dealers. Jenna shares insights on creating a supportive work environment, the significance of personalized customer engagement, and the benefits of using technology to enhance communication. The episode is filled with humor and practical advice for automotive professionals.

Freddy Riggs from the Houston Miata Club joins the In Wheel Time Podcast to discuss the innovative car mover machines designed for electric vehicles. Cy Perkins explains how these machines operate, highlighting their unique ability to lift and transport heavy EVs without causing damage. The conversation dives into the challenges of towing EVs, including weight and design issues, and the evolving landscape of towing regulations. The episode also features humorous banter among the hosts and insights into automotive news and trends.

Brittany Grant, a General Motors field service engineer, shares her unique journey from nursing student to automotive diagnostics expert with a passion for Corvettes. She discusses her role traveling to dealerships in Eastern Pennsylvania to tackle tough vehicle issues, emphasizing the importance of communication, diagnostic tools like PicoScope, and hands-on problem solving. Brittany highlights challenges like intermittent faults, infotainment quirks, and the evolving technician role amid advancing vehicle technology. She also advocates for better training, diversity, and support in the automotive field to attract new talent and improve the technician environment.

Toyota resumed production after a costly system malfunction halted operations, while European car sales rose for the twelfth month, driven by a surge in electric vehicle demand. Chinese automakers are aggressively expanding exports to Europe, with Kia pricing its EV5 competitively in China. GM integrates Google's AI for customer service, and Citroën simplifies its lineup with fixed pricing to boost online sales. Innovative EV charging programs are launching in the US, including a low-cost grid-friendly pilot with Duke Energy, and Ford's hands-free Blue Cruise system gains approval in Germany, highlighting ongoing advances in EV infrastructure and autonomous tech.

The discussion dives into the evolution of electric vehicles (EVs) and autonomous vehicles (AVs), comparing current government incentives to past programs like Cash for Clunkers. Guests Paul Eikeelberg and Hannah Lutz share insights on the Inflation Reduction Act's impact on EV sales and the challenges faced by manufacturers. The conversation also touches on the UAW negotiations and the future of hybrid vehicles, while addressing the ongoing struggles of new entrants in the EV market. The episode highlights the complex interplay between technology, consumer behavior, and regulatory frameworks in shaping the automotive landscape.

David Ainslie and the team discuss innovative towing solutions for electric vehicles with Cy Perkins from Track Machines. The conversation highlights the unique capabilities of the Car Mover XL and Tow Track machines, designed to handle the weight and structural challenges of modern EVs. These machines can autonomously lift vehicles without needing keys, making them essential for towing companies and dealerships. The episode also touches on the evolving landscape of towing regulations and the impact of new vehicle technologies on the industry.

A lively discussion unfolds as the hosts brainstorm new car concepts that manufacturers should consider. From a jacked-up Mazda 6 wagon with a turbo diesel engine to a sporty Hyundai Kona N Plus, the team shares creative ideas for enhancing existing models. The conversation also touches on the need for more manual transmission options and the importance of practicality in design. With humor and camaraderie, the hosts explore the automotive landscape while sharing personal car updates and anecdotes, making for an engaging and entertaining episode.

The discussion covers the rise of software-defined vehicles, highlighting Tesla and new EV makers leading the charge, while traditional automakers struggle to keep pace. Battery recycling is becoming profitable and crucial for future raw materials. Repair costs for EVs are notably higher than ICE vehicles, especially for Teslas. Fast charging doesn’t significantly degrade Tesla batteries. Major automakers like Mercedes and Stellantis are expanding EV charging networks, and Hyundai is developing high-power chargers. Sustainability efforts by Magna and advancements in camera-based vehicle sensing versus lidar are also explored. Porsche’s powerful new Cayenne Turbo plug-in hybrid rounds out the highlights.

Buzz Smith, an EV expert, shares insights on how extreme heat affects electric vehicle performance and battery life. He discusses the importance of charging practices, the impact of temperature on battery efficiency, and the future of EV infrastructure. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of charging stations and the potential for vehicle-to-grid technology. With a mix of humor and expert knowledge, Buzz provides practical advice for current and prospective EV owners, making this episode a valuable resource for understanding the nuances of electric vehicle ownership.

Steve Roessler joins the Car Guy Coffee Podcast to discuss the innovative DC20 events, inspired by his medical industry background. He shares insights on how to enhance automotive sales through collaboration and knowledge sharing among industry specialists. The conversation highlights the importance of adapting to evolving communication methods and the need for modern solutions in the automotive CRM landscape. Listeners will also get a glimpse into the vibrant culture at Drive Centric's headquarters, featuring a tour of their impressive facilities and a focus on teamwork and support.

Ford plans to discontinue five internal combustion engine models by 2025 as it shifts focus to electric vehicles, while VinFast's stock surges dramatically despite low US sales. Both GM and Ford face pickup production halts due to shared part shortages. The EPA cracks down on companies selling illegal diesel emission defeat devices. Used car prices soar, making affordable options scarce. Renault prepares to spin off its Ampere EV unit for a 2024 IPO, following trends set by Toyota and Ford. Additionally, Satroan revives its classic van design and Chinese maker Xpeng advances electric flying taxis, highlighting innovation and market shifts worldwide.

Jeff Mason, COO of the Piston Foundation, joins the In Wheel Time Podcast to discuss the organization's mission to inspire young people to pursue careers in auto restoration through scholarships and training programs. The episode highlights the importance of hands-on education in the collector car industry and the foundation's efforts to connect with schools nationwide. Additionally, the hosts review the 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF Club, detailing its features and performance while sharing personal anecdotes and automotive news.

Colin Weatherwax joins the In Wheel Time Podcast to discuss the innovative Cars for Kids program, which aims to provide vehicles for underprivileged youth. The conversation dives into the importance of automotive education and mentorship for kids, highlighting how the program not only offers cars but also fosters skills and confidence. The hosts also touch on various automotive topics, including piston technology and the evolution of engine components, making for an engaging mix of heartfelt stories and technical insights.

Sean Tipping dives deep into the importance of reliable service information for automotive technicians, sharing his personal experiences with major platforms like Mitchell, Identifix, and AllData. He discusses the strengths and weaknesses of each, emphasizing the value of confirmed fixes in Identifix and the comprehensive, user-friendly layout of AllData. Sean also touches on the challenges of accessing up-to-date info for newer vehicles and the critical role of an effective search function. He encourages investing in quality service info to improve diagnostics and repair efficiency, while also hinting at future AI integration in these platforms.

A lively discussion kicks off with a nostalgic dive into the Twisted Metal video game and its recent TV adaptation. The hosts share their thoughts on the show's execution, budget concerns, and the balance between comedy and action. They also explore the resurgence of classic vehicles like vans and station wagons, emphasizing their growing popularity and value. The episode wraps up with humorous anecdotes about road trips, pet peeves related to car breakdowns, and the quirks of car accessories, making for an entertaining listen for automotive enthusiasts.

The guys dive into their recent acquisition of a project S14 Silvia, discussing the car's impressive specs and the backstory of how they snagged it for a steal. They share insights on the modifications made by the previous owner, including a powerful SR20 engine setup and a wide body kit. The episode also covers their plans for the car's restoration, including aesthetic upgrades and potential future projects like a raffle for listeners. The camaraderie and excitement in their garage setting make for an engaging discussion.

Luke from Cars With Luke shares his journey from a passionate car enthusiast to a successful YouTube creator, focusing on high-quality automotive content. He discusses his love for Porsches, particularly GT cars, and the emotional experiences tied to his first drives. The conversation touches on the challenges of content creation, the importance of community, and the balance between quality and quantity in video production. Luke also reflects on his aspirations to create cinematic films and the impact of viewer feedback on his work.

Financial struggles among small automotive suppliers could worsen if the UAW strike extends beyond two weeks, risking production disruptions. Hyundai's South Korean workers plan to strike over pay and retirement age issues. The upcoming Munich Auto Show will feature a strong presence of Chinese EV makers, raising concerns among European automakers. Kia unveiled the production EV5 in China, while new camper vans from Ford and Mercedes debut with advanced features. GMC revealed a carbon fiber camper kit for the Hummer EV. US vehicle sales are forecasted to rise significantly this August, and a docuseries on former Renault Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn is highlighted.

The discussion centers around the new Ford GTD Mustang, a race-inspired vehicle boasting 800 horsepower and a price tag of $300,000. The hosts delve into its engineering by Multimatic, the use of carbon fiber, and the implications for performance racing. They also share anecdotes about drag racing legends like Joe Amato and Bob Tasca, highlighting their approachable personalities. The episode touches on industry news, including recalls and union negotiations, while maintaining a light-hearted banter throughout.

General Motors is raising wages at its Ultium battery plant to combat high turnover, while Chinese automakers are rapidly expanding in Latin America, challenging Western brands. Battery swapping gains traction for long-haul trucks in China, and automakers are transitioning to USB-C ports amid mixed approaches. Volkswagen launches the upgraded ID.7 EV in Europe, aiming to boost sales. Tooling investments in North America are set to rise with new model introductions, though EV targets face skepticism. Hybrid sales in the US are projected to triple by 2028. GM begins Level 4 autonomous vehicle testing in Shanghai, navigating data restrictions. Plus, a unique Toyota minivan DJ booth highlights automotive creativity.