Car Chat
Sam Moores
Last episode 5 months agoThe Car Chat Podcast features regular interviews with familiar and interesting faces from the automotive world. Hosted by Sam Moores (@sammooresphoto). Video podcasts now over on the Car Chat Podcast youtube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCW2AKE9BDG5e7fvpkj7E4kg
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Episodes (254)
Gordian Von Schöning | 13 Years At HWA - Everything From DTM to The HWA Evo
Gordian Von Schöning (CTO at HWA) joins us for a chat about his journey with HWA. We cover what goes on at this impressive company, a bit about it's genesis and the projects along the way including their new HWA Evo. This is not your average restomod. https://www.hwalegacy.com/ https://www.hwaag.com/en/ Enjoy, Sam Show Notes: 00:00 Rethinking Restomodding 00:49 Gordian's Engineering Journey 03:07 HWA's Legacy in Motorsports 05:56 The Evolution of HWA 08:48 Technology in DTM Racing 12:13 The Relationship Between Racing and Road Cars 14:53 HWA's Role in Road Car Development 18:12 Customer Racing Dynamics 21:05 Balancing Performance and Usability 23:55 The Impact of Balance of Performance (BOP) 26:53 HWA's Shift to Road Car Projects 31:49 The Evolution of the HWA Evo 36:43 Design Philosophy and Customer Involvement 41:05 Powertrain and Performance Specifications 46:15 Weight Management and Engineering Challenges 50:34 Production Plans and Future Projects 52:53 Unique Features and Market Positioning 54:19 Personal Reflections and Future Aspirations Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Craig Callum | Hot Wheels
Craig Callum, Senior Design Manager at Hot Wheels (@cforcraig), joins us for a fascinating conversation about his journey through the automotive and toy industries. From dreaming of being a car designer at age five to working at MG Rover, Lego, and now Hot Wheels, Craig has always been driven by creativity. We discuss his time freelancing for Lego while snowboarding in the Alps, his role in creating the popular Speed Champions line, and how he's now leading the design of Hot Wheels' iconic mini cars. Craig shares insights into designing cars both big and small, the challenges of scaling car designs for toys, and even how Hot Wheels projects inspire real car manufacturers. He also reveals his personal love for hot rods, his Ford Model A builds, and his perspective on car culture in Los Angeles. Enjoy, Sam Show Notes: 00:00 The Journey to Car Design 02:57 The Evolution of Design Thinking 06:11 The Role of Imagination in Design 09:01 Hot Wheels: Merging Fantasy and Reality 11:50 The Challenges of Scale in Design 15:07 The Experience of Studying Car Design 17:57 Career Path: From Internships to Design 20:50 The Transition to Freelancing and Lego 24:05 Designing for Lego: A New Adventure 26:57 The Impact of Design on User Experience 30:10 Speed Champions: Bridging Cars and Lego 33:01 The Future of Design and Personal Passion 44:39 The Evolution of Adult Lego Fans 48:02 Sam's Journey at Lego and Speed Champions 52:55 Transitioning to Hot Wheels 56:21 Life on the Road: Building a Camper Van 01:00:15 Managing Design at Hot Wheels 01:06:53 The Hot Wheels Legends Tour and Community Engagement 01:12:41 Personal Car Collection and Experiences Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
See You In 2 Weeks
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Bruce Wood | Cosworth - From Motorsport To Hypercar V12s
Bruce Wood is the Managing Director of Cosworth. Bruce shares his journey from starting at Cosworth as a graduate in 1987 to leading the company through iconic projects like the Cosworth Sierra, IndyCar engines, and modern hypercars like the Aston Martin Valkyrie. https://www.cosworth.com/ Enjoy, Sam Show Notes: 00:00 The Passion for Engineering and Design 02:55 Bruce Wood's Journey at Cosworth 05:50 The Evolution of Cosworth in Motor Racing 09:12 The Impact of Technology on Engine Design 12:07 From Graduate to Managing Director 15:00 The Challenges of Motor Racing 17:54 The Phases of Cosworth's Business 20:47 Experiences During Ford Ownership 24:09 The Wilderness Years and Reinvention 27:05 The Hypercar Era and Future Directions 39:34 The Shift in Sponsorship Dynamics 42:27 The Evolution of Powertrains in Racing 44:51 Navigating Challenges in a Competitive Landscape 46:46 The Transition to Hypercars 49:42 The Role of Consultancy in Automotive Engineering 51:11 The Jaguar CX-75 Project 56:35 Understanding Hybrid Powertrains 01:01:21 The Bugatti Evolution and Performance Goals 01:05:12 Developing the Valkyrie Engine 01:17:31 The Complexity of Engine Design 01:19:24 The Philosophy Behind Hypercars 01:23:19 Challenges in Emissions and Engine Design 01:27:12 The Future of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles 01:32:35 The Evolution of Engine Technology 01:36:30 The Appeal of Hypercars 01:39:01 The Current Era of V12 Hypercars 01:42:51 The Role of Cosworth in Hypercar Development 01:46:18 The Future of Engine Design 01:49:13 Memorable Driving Experiences 01:51:39 Undervalued Cars and Personal Favorites 01:53:08 Innovative Car Designs and Future Trends 01:55:03 The Ultimate Dream Garage Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Robin Shute | The Journey Of A 4x Pikes Peak Champion And Building A New Car To Win Again
Robin Shute is an engineer and 4x Pikes Peak Champion. He competes in the top class with his Wolf based racer. Robin joins me at home for a chat about Pikes Peak, racing, his engineering background and his upcoming car designed to smash records. A great chat with some real depth. Enjoy, Sam https://www.instagram.com/robin.shute/?hl=en https://www.youtube.com/@thesendyclub Show Notes: Chapters 00:00 The Basics of Engineering and Racing 00:46 Robin Shute: A Racing Journey 04:00 Early Influences and Career Path 07:48 Tesla: The Early Days of Innovation 11:57 The Evolution of Electric Vehicles 16:11 The Importance of Team Size in Racing 18:06 The Birth of the Wolf Racing Team 21:54 Pikes Peak: The Challenge of the Mountain 26:10 The Technical Aspects of Racing Cars 30:02 The Development of the Wolf Car 33:52 Pushing the Limits of Speed 39:12 Engineering Innovations and Challenges 43:03 The Decision to Build a New Car 49:27 The Case Against Electric Vehicles 55:07 Exploring the Future of Race Cars 01:08:01 The Future of Autonomous Driving 01:10:27 Nitro Rallycross and the Evolution of Racing 01:12:52 Electric Vehicles in Motorsports 01:14:14 Innovations in Car Design and Engineering 01:19:02 The Simplicity of Effective Engineering 01:22:51 Driving Experience and Car Weight Dynamics 01:29:31 The Unlimited Class and Record-Breaking Aspirations 01:35:04 Memorable Journeys and Dream Cars Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Dave Cole | King Of The Hammers - The Toughest One-Day Off-Road Race On The Planet
In this episode, we’re joined by Dave Cole, Co-Founder and Owner of King of the Hammers. Dave, a former off-road racer himself, has turned the rugged desert of Johnson Valley, California, into the ultimate proving ground for the world’s toughest drivers and machines. Known as the "toughest one-day off-road race on the planet," King of the Hammers combines high-speed desert racing with brutal rock crawling, pushing competitors to their absolute limits. We discuss Dave’s journey from racer to race organiser, the origins of King of the Hammers, and how it grew from a casual challenge among friends into a global motorsports phenomenon. With a mix of adrenaline, innovation, and a die-hard off-road community, Dave shares the magic that makes King of the Hammers more than just a race. Enjoy, Sam https://kingofthehammers.com/ Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to King of the Hammers 03:12 The Evolution of Rock Crawling and Off-Road Racing 05:59 The Technical Aspects of KOH 08:55 The Challenges of Desert Racing 11:54 The Dynamics of High-Speed Off-Roading 14:48 The Importance of Vehicle Design and Engineering 18:13 The Role of Strategy in Off-Road Racing 21:09 The Future of Off-Road Racing and Vehicle Innovation 23:50 Conclusion and Reflections on the Sport 37:46 The Evolution of KOH 50:04 Training and Preparing for KOH 01:00:20 The Impact of COVID on Off-Road Events 01:08:08 Memorable Experiences and Future Innovations Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Max Banks | Alfaholics - The Joy Of Tuning And Driving Classic Alfas
In this episode, we’re joined by Max Banks, one of the key figures behind Alfaholics, the world-renowned specialists in classic Alfa Romeo restorations and performance upgrades. Founded by a family with a deep passion for Alfa Romeo, Alfaholics has earned a global reputation for transforming vintage Alfas into meticulously restored and enhanced machines, blending classic beauty with cutting-edge engineering. Max shares the story of Alfaholics, the way their parts business helps the restomods (and keeps prices down) and we took their Super for a drive. Enjoy, Sam https://www.alfaholics.com/ https://www.instagram.com/alfaholicsltd/ Show Notes: 00:00 The Thrill of Lightweight Cars 02:54 Max Banks and Alfaholics: A Family Legacy 06:08 The Evolution of Alfaholics 08:58 Racing Heritage and Development 11:49 The GTA-R Program: Balancing Performance and Character 14:45 Parts Supply and Market Positioning 18:05 The Unique Business Model of Alfaholics 20:54 The Process of Building a GTA-R 24:14 Customer Relationships and Expectations 27:05 The Future of Alfaholics and Car Development 39:38 Evolution of the GTA-R and Track-Oriented Builds 42:30 Memorable Nürburgring Experiences 44:51 Driving Dynamics of the GTA-R 46:46 The Joy of Driving Lightweight Cars 47:15 Daily Drivers and the Appeal of SUVs 50:06 Changing Customer Profiles in the Automotive Market 52:02 Building and Pricing the GTA-R 54:26 Racing Adventures and Championship Wins 56:25 Driving the McLaren M6B 01:00:12 The Team Behind the Racing 01:02:40 Options Beyond the GTA-R 01:05:01 Memorable Driving Trips and Car Preferences Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Thierry Nardone | Nardone Automotive - The 928 Restomod
Thierry Nardone is the founder and CEO of Nardone Automotive, a French company behind the restomod of the Porsche 928. Thierry’s passion for transaxle Porsches, particularly the 928, inspired him to reimagine this classic grand tourer, blending its original elegance with modern performance and luxury. Nardone Automotive’s reinterpretation features a carbon-fiber body, a meticulously upgraded V8 engine producing approximately 400 horsepower, and a bespoke interior adorned with Foglizzo leather and Alcantara. The vehicle also boasts contemporary amenities like a Porsche Classic Communication Management system with Apple CarPlay. Thierry wants the car to drive like a sports car but also retain and improve upon the 928s ability to serve as a grand tourer with refinement not found in a 911 etc. https://www.nardone-automotive.com/ https://www.instagram.com/nardone_automotive/ Enjoy, Sam Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to Thierry Nardone and Nardone Automotive 02:54 The Journey to Restomods: Passion and Experience 05:47 The Concept of Restomods and Initial Projects 09:10 Building a Network: Collaborations and Partnerships 12:05 Designing the Nightweight: Vision and Execution 15:01 The Launch of the Gold 928: Marketing and Reception 17:56 Defining the 928: Engineering and Aesthetics 20:48 Monterey Experience: Feedback and Future Plans 24:09 Customer Alignment: Vision and Expectations 36:35 Customer Engagement and Company Growth 37:30 Performance Goals and Engine Development 40:20 Gearbox Innovations and Torque Management 42:15 Sound Design: Balancing Comfort and Performance 44:44 Weight Management and Vehicle Dynamics 46:40 High-End Sound Systems in Resto Mods 51:00 Driving Experiences and Road Trips 01:01:07 Future Developments and Technology Integration Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Maurizio Reggiani | Bugatti EB110 to 16 Years As Lamborghini CTO and now the Eccentrica V12
Maurizio Reggiani, born on February 8, 1959, in San Martino Spino, Italy, is a distinguished automotive engineer renowned for his significant contributions to the high-performance automotive industry. He graduated from the University of Modena with a degree in mechanical engineering. Reggiani began his career at Maserati in 1982, focusing on engine development, notably for the Maserati Biturbo. In 1987, he joined Bugatti under Paolo Stanzani, overseeing the development of the EB110’s engine, gearbox, and transmission. In 1995, Reggiani moved to Lamborghini, leading the development of the Murciélago. By 2001, he headed research and development for powertrains and suspension. His tenure as Chief Technical Officer from 2006 saw the launch of models like the Aventador, Huracán, and Urus. In January 2022, he became Vice President of Lamborghini Motorsport, overseeing the company’s motorsport division. In April 2023, the University of Bologna awarded Reggiani a Laurea ad Honorem, recognizing his contributions to automotive engineering. Enjoy, Sam https://eccentricacars.com/ https://www.instagram.com/eccentricaofficial/ Show Notes: 00:00 The Journey Begins: From Maserati to Lamborghini 02:48 Engineering Excellence: The Bugatti Experience 06:07 Transitioning to Lamborghini: Challenges and Innovations 09:02 The Birth of the Gallardo: A New Era 11:54 The Impact of Audi Ownership on Lamborghini 14:48 Defining the Soul of Lamborghini 18:06 The Evolution of Lamborghini's Engine Technology 21:02 The Success of the Urus: A Game Changer 23:57 Future of Lamborghini: Hybridization and Beyond 54:36 Energy Storage Challenges in Automotive Engineering 58:52 The Evolution of Hypercars and Performance Expectations 01:00:44 Innovations in Resto Mods: The Eccentrica Vision 01:05:07 Balancing Tradition and Modern Technology in Car Design 01:10:32 Driving Experience: Comparing the Eccentrica to the Original Diablo 01:15:20 Challenges of Low-Volume Production in Luxury Cars 01:20:34 Customization and Personalization in High-End Automotive Projects 01:24:03 Future Prospects for Eccentrica and the Automotive Industry 01:29:25 Memorable Driving Experiences and Personal Favorites 01:35:37 The Most Undervalued and Interesting Cars Today Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Sasha Selipanov | NILU - A New V12 Manual Hypercar
Sasha Selipanov is the founder of NILU27 (https://nilu27.com/), a new hypercar company focused on delivering an engaging manual V12 experience. Sasha shares his incredible journey, from designing icons like the Bugatti Chiron, Lamborghini Huracán, and Genesis Essentia, to his latest venture with NILU27, where he aims to reshape the hypercar landscape. We explore Sasha’s design philosophy as he talks about balancing the artistry of classical beauty with modern engineering, his hands-on approach to design, and his vision for analog, emotionally-driven sports cars. Hear stories from his remarkable journey through car design, including major stops at Bugatti, Lamborghini, Genesis, and Koenigsegg. Sasha shares insights into the creation of the Gemera and CC850 at Koenigsegg, and how those experiences inspired him to pursue his lifelong dream of crafting a hypercar that prioritizes emotion over sheer numbers. Discover the passion behind NILU’s vision for redefining the modern hypercar and the car Sasha has always wanted to create. https://www.instagram.com/nilu27_official/ Enjoy, Sam Show Notes: 00:00 The Allure of Classic Sports Cars 02:47 Sasha Selipanov: A Journey in Car Design 06:06 The Competitive Nature of Exterior Design 08:57 The Chiron Project: A Designer's Perspective 12:14 Reflections on Design Choices 15:08 Heritage vs. Innovation in Car Design 17:57 The Koenigsegg Experience: A Dream Realised 20:53 Designing the Gemera: Challenges and Triumphs 24:13 Creating a New Hypercar: The Vision Behind Nilu27 27:04 The Shift from Numbers to Emotion in Car Design 39:47 The Shift in Automotive Values 42:06 Beauty and Experience in Car Design 45:55 The Joy of Manual Driving 49:49 Craftsmanship vs. Industrial Production 54:34 Market Dynamics and Customer Interest 01:00:21 The Future of Manual Cars 01:02:21 Innovative Designs and the Cybertruck 01:10:27 Personal Favorites and Dream Cars Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Lee Gray | Kyron Audio - Designing The Ultimate Listening Experience
Lee Gray is the Co-Founder of Kyron Audio. Kyron started building loudspeakers for the discerning ears of professional musicians in 2001, and have continued the quest for the most realistic and musical home audio systems. One of the things you will notice is the Open-baffle design. Unlike traditional boxed speakers, Kyron’s systems employ an open-baffle design, eliminating enclosures to reduce resonance and coloration. This approach enhances clarity and delivers a more natural sound. https://kyronaudio.com.au/ Enjoy, Sam Show Notes: 00:00 The Journey Begins: From Childhood to Audio Design 06:11 Crafting the World's Best Loudspeakers 11:57 Innovative Speaker Technology: The Dipole Design 17:51 Active Systems vs. Passive Systems: A New Approach 24:04 Bespoke Audio Solutions: Tailoring to Client Needs 29:53 The Art of Speaker Design: Beyond the Box 34:45 Crafting Perfection in Audio Design 47:10 Innovations in Amplification Technology 49:32 The Perfectionist Mindset in Audio Engineering 52:58 The Emotional Experience of Listening to Music 01:00:45 Challenges of Daily Listening and Audio Quality 01:04:06 The Importance of Speaker Design and Quality 01:09:20 Judgment and Perception in Hi-Fi 01:12:45 The Shift from Forums to Personal Connections 01:15:38 The Desire for a Hassle-Free Audio Experience 01:18:57 The Evolution of Technology and Consumer Expectations 01:24:18 Nerding Out: Passion vs. Practicality 01:30:58 Memorable Journeys and Experiences 01:34:06 Choosing the Right Sound System Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Oliver Hulme - Le Mans Coupes - Superformance GT40s, Cobras and The Spartan
Le Mans Coupes is the UK importer of a bunch of cool cars. From Superformance GT40s and Cobras to the Hyper Racer X1 and Spartan. I have a sit down with the boss Oliver Hulme after a drive in a GT40 to discuss these cars and the others they have for sale. https://lemanscoupes.com/ Enjoy, Sam Show Notes: 00:00 The Journey into Classic Cars 03:13 Understanding Superformance and Its Offerings 06:02 Driving Experience of the GT40 08:57 The Evolution of the GT40 Engine 12:13 The Community of GT40 Enthusiasts 15:02 The Appeal of Classic Cars in Modern Times 32:18 Performance and Aesthetics of Classic Cars 36:07 Navigating Regulations: The IVA Process 37:05 Introducing the Spartan: A Track-Focused Sports Car 39:55 Specifications and Performance of the Spartan 41:45 Driving Experience: Manual vs. Sequential Gearbox 44:08 Adjustable Suspension: Enhancing Performance 47:27 Fuel Efficiency and Track Day Considerations 49:41 Downforce Dynamics and Driving Confidence 53:30 Exploring the Hyper Racer: A New Racing Opportunity 01:04:48 The Joy of Track Days 01:12:48 The Thrill of Racing 01:20:11 The Allure of Historic Racing 01:28:32 The Value of Underrated Cars 01:35:38 Dream Cars and Future Aspirations Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Podcast Trailer
Weekly 1-2hr episodes with a wide selection of the automotive industry. Enjoy, Sam Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Misha Charoudin - Filming At The 'Ring, Racing And Founding Vulcan Alpha
Misha Charoudin is a Nürburgring-based Youtuber and now racing driver. He began by filming videos at the track and has since progressed to filming himself driving multiple cars daily at the Nürburgring.. Misha shares in-car driving, vlogs and lots of behind the scenes footage of car setups, local culture etc. In addition, Misha is the CEO and co-founder of Vulcan Alpha, a company that designs and produces high-performance car parts focused on aerodynamics, such as wings and splitters. Known for his approachable style and deep knowledge of motorsport, Misha's videos attract millions of fans worldwide, establishing him as one of the most prominent Nürburgring content creators. https://www.vulcan-alpha.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@mgcharoudin https://www.instagram.com/mgcharoudin/ Enjoy, Sam Show Notes: Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Misha Charoudin and His Journey 04:57 The Rise of Boosted Boris 09:54 Content Creation at the Nürburgring 15:11 The Challenges of Driving and Filming Cars 19:52 The Evolution of Apex and New Ventures 35:18 Reflections on Apex and Future Endeavors 41:12 Memorable Driving Experiences and Lessons Learned 46:25 The Birth of a New Company: Vulcan Alpha 55:20 Experiences in Australia: Racing and Community Support 01:01:56 The Changing Landscape of Automotive Media and Influence 01:09:24 Future Aspirations and Diversifying Ventures 01:10:51 Expanding Horizons and Regrets 01:11:47 The Dream Track Car 01:12:44 The Essence of Driving 01:14:09 The Challenge of Content Creation 01:16:05 Building Unique Projects 01:17:30 Favourite Car Builders and Projects 01:19:24 Understanding Time Attack Racing 01:21:15 The Evolution of Car Builds 01:24:11 5 Questions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Jan Kalmar | KALMAR Automotive - Porsches That Are Built To Be Driven
Jan Kalmar is the founder of KALMAR Automotive and a lifelong petrolhead. Based in Denmark, Jan has dedicated his life to automotive innovation, combining his love for fast cars and endurance racing with a passion for building rugged vehicles. Jan has set some crazy long distance records and has a real passion for adventure drives. Kalmar Automotive specialises in bespoke restomod Porsches for road, off-road and track. https://kalmarautomotive.com/home/ https://www.instagram.com/kalmarautomotive/ Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to Jan Kalmar and His Passion for Cars 02:27 The Journey of Building Cars and Racing 04:54 Long-Distance Driving Adventures and World Records 10:09 Challenges and Lessons from Extreme Driving Experiences 13:27 Planning and Logistics for Long Road Trips 24:39 The Philosophy of Adventure and Risk in Driving 36:41 The Capabilities of the Cayenne in Off-Roading 43:31 Building Off-Road 911s and the Evolution of Adventure Cars 51:14 The Shift from Track Racing to Adventure Driving 54:31 The RestoMod Experience 57:29 Modern Technology Meets Classic Design 01:01:05 The Adventure Range Philosophy 01:06:15 Creating a Unique Driving Experience 01:10:05 Aerodynamics and Performance Challenges 01:15:55 The Philosophy of Modern Coach Building 01:20:11 The Evolution of Porsche Design 01:25:12 The 9X9 Project: A New Class of Cars 01:30:57 The Future of Performance Cars 01:38:17 Final Thoughts and Five Questions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Jayde Deverson | Equus Garage Design
Jayde Deverson is a renowned designer of luxury garages for car collectors. Jayde has spent over 15 years transforming garages from simple storage spaces into bespoke, functional environments that reflect the owner’s passions and car collections. Starting with a fascination for cars inspired by his father, Jayde discovered his true calling at 40, when he decided to pursue garage design full-time. His first project, an Art Deco revival garage, gained international recognition and launched him into a niche industry, where he's worked with collectors worldwide. https://www.equusauto.co.uk/ https://www.deversondesign.com.au/ Enjoy, Sam Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to Luxury Garage Design 03:03 The Journey to Designing Garages 05:59 First Project and Building Reputation 08:57 The Importance of Practical Experience 11:58 Challenges in Garage Design 15:06 Client Confidentiality and Promotion 17:45 The Garage Design Landscape 21:08 Creating Personal Spaces 24:03 Unique Design Inspirations 27:01 The Balance of Aesthetics and Functionality 29:58 Cultural Differences in Garage Design 32:53 Future Trends in Garage Spaces 50:19 Designing Automotive Country Clubs 59:40 Building Design for Car Preservation 01:12:58 The Balance of Car Usage and Preservation 01:21:26 Memorable Driving Experiences and Car Choices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Tom Ford | Top Gear Magazine
Tom Ford, Associate Editor for Top Gear Magazine, has carved out a unique space within the motoring world. With his career spanning from TV shows like Fifth Gear and Top Gear America to his current role at Top Gear Magazine, Tom has always pursued the unconventional. Known for his adventures with everyday vehicles on extraordinary journeys, he combines his passion for storytelling with a love for car culture, from supercars to small hatchbacks. In this episode of Car Chat, Tom shares his transition from supercar fanatic to someone more enamored with the people and stories in car culture. He talks about taking a humble Kia Picanto down some of France’s narrowest roads and navigating icy Swedish landscapes in sports cars ill-suited for the conditions. Tom's approach to road trips, whether in rugged vehicles or unexpected places, reflects his belief that the best journeys aren’t about the cars themselves but the experiences and stories they create. https://www.instagram.com/tomwookieford/ https://www.topgear.com/car-news/tom-ford Show Notes: Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tom Ford and His Journey 02:48 The Joy of Car Culture and Adventure 06:02 The Difference Between Driving and Road Tripping 08:55 Memorable Road Trips and Experiences 11:49 Getting Started in Automotive Journalism 15:07 The Evolution of Automotive Journalism 17:59 The Impact of Time on Car Reviews 20:53 Resto Mods and Unique Car Projects 23:51 Exploring Car Culture in Japan and China 33:26 Embracing the Slow Life in Cars 37:18 The Impact of Injury on Driving 41:42 The Intersection of Wealth and Car Collections 45:35 The Personal Connection to Cars 50:52 The Evolution of Performance Cars 54:15 The Joy of Driving Unique Cars 01:00:53 Reflections on Car Ownership and Identity 01:07:40 The Skoda Yeti: A Personal Favorite 01:14:23 The Evolution of Electric Vehicles 01:25:00 Exploring the World of Camper Vans 01:39:25 Dream Garage: The Ultimate Car Collection Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Goran Turkic | Tedson Motors
Could restoring classic cars be the future of sustainable, high-performance vehicles? Goran Turkic certainly thinks so. Goran Turkic is the founder and CEO of Tedson Motors, a company that specialises in high-end restomods. With a background that spans real estate, energy, and automotive, Goran combines a wealth of experience with a deep passion for car design and innovation. His journey took him from a childhood fascination with cars to founding Tedson Motors, where he now focuses on creating advanced, air-cooled hybrids (and non-hybrid), with a particular love for vintage Porsche models. In this conversation, Goran and I delve into topics like the appeal of classic car restoration, the challenges of building the first air-cooled hybrid, and the future of automotive technology, including e-fuels and hydrogen combustion engines. He also shares insights into what sets supercars apart, the importance of maintaining big engines, and how customisation allows enthusiasts to create truly unique vehicles. https://tedsonmotors.com/ https://www.instagram.com/tedson_motors/ Enjoy, Sam Chapters 00:00 The Journey of Passion and Ignorance 07:03 The Evolution of Car Restoration 13:58 From Collector to Creator: The Birth of Tedson Motors 20:59 Designing the Future: The 964 and 993 Restomods 30:08 Challenges in Innovation: The Hybrid Experience 34:48 Engineering Challenges in Hybrid Car Development 40:41 The Future of Hydrogen Combustion Engines 46:37 The Evolution of Automotive Technologies 51:53 The Role of Nostalgia in Modern Supercars 01:01:14 Customization in the Automotive Industry 01:12:40 The Experience Over Power Debate 01:15:39 The Evolution of Performance Cars 01:18:22 Innovations in Supercar Design 01:24:16 The Future of Hypercars 01:29:50 Memorable Driving Experiences 01:33:28 The Ideal Five-Car Garage Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Dylan Miles | Sporting And Classic Automobiles
Dylan Miles joins the podcast to talk about his lifelong passion for cars. We discuss the history and value of classic vehicles, the challenges of running a dealership, and the importance of reputation in the car market. Dylan shares his experiences working in various roles within the automotive industry, from auctions to managing collections, and highlights the significance of emotional connections to cars. The conversation also touches on the evolving market for classic cars, the appeal of modern classics, and the unique characteristics of Aston Martin and Zagato vehicles. https://www.dylan-miles.com/ Enjoy, Sam Show Notes: Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Car Enthusiasm 02:47 Dylan Miles: A Classic Car Dealer's Journey 06:00 The Allure of Brough Superior Motorcycles 08:48 The Value of Classic Bikes and Cars 12:09 Dylan's Career Path 15:03 Driving Experiences: Memorable Cars and Lessons Learned 17:58 The Evolution of Car Dealerships and Market Trends 20:50 The Importance of Reputation in Car Dealing 24:08 The Challenges of Running a Classic Car Dealership 26:57 Finding and Sourcing Classic Cars 30:11 The Significance of Showroom Environment 33:03 The History of the Dealership Location 35:49 The Emotional Attachment to Cars 39:10 The Aston Martin V8: A Hidden Gem 42:08 The Market for Classic Aston Martins 45:11 The Appeal of Modern Classics 48:02 Zagato Cars: A Unique Perspective 50:52 Final Thoughts and Future of Classic Cars Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Simon Thornley | Thornley Kelham - Restorations, Restomods And That Outlaw Lancia Aurelia B20GT
Thornley Kelham is a renowned UK-based specialist in classic car restoration, maintenance, and bespoke projects. The company offers a comprehensive range of services, including full restorations, upgrades, and custom modifications, with a focus on high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. Known for working on iconic brands such as Lancia, Ferrari, and Aston Martin, Thornley Kelham has also gained recognition for their 'Outlaw' series, which reimagines classic models with modern performance enhancements while maintaining the spirit of the original car. Simon Thornley is the co-founder and director of Thornley Kelham, bringing decades of experience in the automotive industry. He is passionate about preserving automotive history while pushing the boundaries of restoration, combining traditional techniques with modern technology to deliver world-class restorations and unique custom builds. https://www.thornleykelham.com/ Enjoy, Sam Show Notes: 00:00 The Genesis of Thornley-Kellen Workshops 09:50 Building a Holistic Restoration Business 19:50 Navigating Early Challenges and Customer Relationships 30:01 The Evolution of Modified Classics 39:53 Creating Exclusive and Personalized Cars 49:47 The Future of Classic Car Restoration Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Arash Farboud | Arash Cars
Arash Farboud is a British automotive designer and entrepreneur, best known as the founder of Arash Cars, a boutique car manufacturer specializing in high-performance sports and hypercars. Established in 1999, Arash Cars has developed a reputation for producing bespoke, cutting-edge vehicles that push the boundaries of technology and design. The company's creations range from lightweight sports cars to powerful electric hypercars, including models like the AF10, AF8, and Imperium. Arash Cars is known for its focus on innovation, craftsmanship, and a passion for producing limited-run, exclusive cars for discerning enthusiasts. https://arashcars.com/ Show Notes: 00:00 The Journey of a Car Designer 02:46 Challenges in Creating Hypercars 06:01 The Evolution of Car Manufacturing Technology 08:56 The Impact of COVID on Car Development 11:51 Navigating the Electric Vehicle Market 14:47 The Emotional Connection to Cars 18:13 Innovations in Engine Technology 20:59 The Future of Lightweight Sports Cars 23:53 Special Projects and Collaborations 26:46 The Role of Emotion in Car Design 30:09 The Market for Hypercars 33:04 The Experience of Owning Hypercars 36:03 The Challenges of Building a Car 38:59 The Importance of Celebrating Successes 41:52 The Future of Car Manufacturing 44:50 The Balance of Innovation and Market Demand 01:09:33 Designing Bespoke Automotive Solutions 01:12:34 Challenges of High-Performance Engines 01:16:58 The Evolution of Driving Experience 01:20:36 Memorable Driving Journeys 01:34:30 The Future of Restomods 01:49:20 The Business of Car Restoration 02:01:12 The Impact of Automation on Employment 02:04:40 Building a Dream Garage Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
David Gomez | 7x Design - Chasing 300mph in a Bespoke Lamborghini
David Gomez discusses his journey in the world of cars and customization. From his first car, a GMC Typhoon, to owning iconic vehicles like the Lamborghini Diablo and Bugatti Veyron, David's deep passion for cars drove him to commission his own bespoke creations. He founded 7X Design to craft one-of-a-kind vehicles that blend art with driving pleasure. In this episode, David delves into the various levels of car customization, the rewards, and challenges that come with each, and his collaboration with Envisage, an engineering firm, to bring his visions to life. He also shares insights into his vision for his next car, which emphasizes both speed and beauty. David reflects on the exhilarating experience of driving the car for the first time, the critical role of tires in high-speed runs, and the different tracks available for testing. He concludes by expressing his disinterest in conventional hypercars and his ambitious plans for future projects. https://7x.design/ https://www.instagram.com/7xdesign/ Enjoy, Sam Show Notes: 00:00 - Introduction and David's Car Enthusiast Background 03:19 - From Buying to Creating Bespoke Cars 08:08 - Enjoying and Owning Iconic Cars 15:19 - The Porsche Carrera GT and the Bugatti Veyron 22:28 - Reaching the Pinnacle with the Bugatti Veyron 26:45 - Founding 7X Design and Collaborating with Designers 31:24 - The Art and Science of Creating Bespoke Cars 37:56 - Partnering with Envisage for Custom Car Projects 40:21 - Vision for the Second Car: Speed and Beauty 42:17 - Experiencing Mind-Blowing Acceleration and Tunnel Vision 45:10 - The Critical Role of Tires in High-Speed Runs 47:37 - Testing on Different Tracks for High-Speed Performance 53:22 - Moving Beyond Standard Manufacturer Hypercars 01:00:34 - Creating a Road-Going Version of a Le Mans Hypercar 01:11:04 - The Undervalued Jaguar XJ220 01:14:50 - David's Five-Car Garage: A Blend of Classics, Sports Cars, and Daily Drivers 01:16:18 - The Art, Passion, and Driving Pleasure of Unique Cars Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Victor Engler | Engler Automotive Superquads
In this episode of the Car Chat podcast, host Sam Moores welcomes Viktor Engler, the founder and CEO of Engler Automotive. Viktor discusses his journey from a childhood in Slovakia, where his passion for cars was ignited by a book about Ferruccio Lamborghini, to becoming the creator of the unique “Superquad” vehicles. These vehicles, which defy traditional automotive categories, combine elements of both cars and motorbikes, featuring an Audi R8 engine and custom-built components. Viktor shares stories of overcoming financial challenges, securing investor support, and the engineering feats required to bring his vision to life. He also talks about the introduction of the new V12 superquad, a limited-edition vehicle boasting 1200 horsepower, 1200 kilograms of weight, and 1200 newton meters of torque, priced at 1.2 million euros. This episode provides a deep dive into the world of innovative vehicle design and the persistence required to bring such groundbreaking concepts to market. https://www.super-quad.com/ Enjoy, Sam Show Notes: 00:00 Introduction to Engler Automotive and Superquads 02:05 Childhood Dream and Inspiration 09:43 Finding Investors and Making Sales 14:27 Challenges with Audi and Obtaining Permission 19:19 Innovative Features: Motorbike Controls and Custom Steering System 25:23 Development and Unique Aspects of Superquads 29:42 Reactions and Experiences on the Road 35:28 Driving Experience and Getting Used to Superquads 38:18 Throttle Choice and Safety Measures 42:30 The Importance of Steering Wheel Controls and Physical Buttons 49:06 The Desire for More Powerful Engines, Particularly V12s 52:55 The Development of A V12 Engine and Unique Gearbox 01:06:24 The Most Undervalued and Interesting Cars in the Market Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Nikita Bridan | Oil Stain Lab - The Half 11 And HF 11
In this episode of the Car Chat Podcast, Nikita Bridan, co-founder of Oil Stain Lab, joins us to share his fascinating journey from a career in car design to launching his own automotive design consultancy. Nikita dives into the inspiration behind their standout project, the "Half 11," detailing the unique challenges they encountered during its creation. He explores their design philosophy, which centers around minimalism, problem-solving, and cleverly integrating function into the aesthetics. We also discuss the decision to use an LS engine in the Half 11, addressing the challenges and controversies it sparked. Nikita sheds light on the design and development process of their latest project, the HF 11, and shares his experience at Goodwood, where the Half 11 was showcased. He reflects on how the car was received at the event and talks about the importance of branding and positioning in the automotive world. Finally, we touch on iconic cars like the Lamborghini Countach and Mazda 787B, and their lasting impact on the industry. https://hf-11.com/ Show Notes: 00:00 Starting a Design Consultancy and Building the half 11 19:44 Challenging Porsche Purists with the half 11 25:18 The Design Approach of Oilstain Lab: Minimalism and Problem-Solving 33:23 Creating a Fake History and Pushing Boundaries 38:05 Cutting a 911 in Half: The Journey of Building the half 11 46:36 Collaborating with Experts: The Role of Engineering in the Design Process 47:42 The Controversial Decision to Use an LS Engine 48:38 The Development of the HF 11 49:34 The Most Undervalued Car at the Moment 52:25 The Most Interesting New Car 01:31:25 Sam's Dream Five-Car Garage Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
MrJWW | The Koenigsegg Chimera and Becoming A Dealer
I join James (MrJWW) in his new Koenigsegg London dealership for a catchup on all of the crazy projects now underway with DRVN group. In pt1. we discuss Koenisegg and particularly the crazy one off Jesko engined, CC850 gearboxed Agera that James recently drove. We then move onto Boreham Motorworks and the licensed Ford products that will be coming along with Pt.2 where we will have the Evolito (355 Restomod) story including the genesis of that project and where it has got to now. https://koenigsegglondon.com/ https://borehammotorworks.com/ Enjoy, Sam Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices