The Watt Car EV Podcast

277: The Sacrificial Lamb

Turns out, a vehicle needn’t be made in China for the U.S. to chuck it from these shores for being a Chinese car, but was Polestar simply a sacrificial lamb for Geely, since Volvo’s presence has been spared? That’s just the first topic on this week’s podcast. The conversation then wanders somewhat autonomously to Tesla, VW, and Bosch and the future of self-driving cars, plus dielectric battery EVs, and more.Subscribe to the audio version of the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, or wherever else top-quality podcasts are served.SHOW NOTESPolestar exits US market: https://www.thedrive.com/news/polestar-is-done-selling-new-cars-in-the-us Tesla rolls out FSD v14 “lite” to HW3: https://electrek.co/2026/06/29/tesla-fsd-v14-lite-hw3-rollout/ VW reportedly cutting losses with Bosch over autonomous driving software not achieving goals: https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/volkswagen-plans-end-automated-driving-tie-up-with-bosch-bild-reports-2026-06-28/ DOT proposes elimination of the brake pedal for fully autonomous vehicles: https://techcrunch.com/2026/06/25/trump-admin-proposes-axing-brake-pedal-requirement-for-avs-in-a-boost-for-tesla/ Shell shows prototype with dielectric fluid battery: https://www.autoblog.com/news/shell-built-an-ev-that-uses-half-the-carbon-of-todays-electric-cars Ferrari marketing chief “leaves” company following Luce launch: https://electrek.co/2026/06/23/ferrari-replaces-marketing-chief-luce-ev-backlash/ Ferrari Luce sells out in China: https://www.autoblog.com/news/ferraris-first-ev-got-roasted-online-then-sold-out-in-china This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy PolestarMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E277 Jul 02, 2026 57 min 26 annotations

276: The Human Touch

From a ho-hum car to more fake ICE sounds to robot overlords, Hyundai’s in the news! Is this Korean automaker joining Tesla in building the robots that are mankind’s downfall? One of the hosts of this podcast thinks it’s a possibility. Plus, Lucid stares at death’s door, Porsche’s U.S. sports wagons are no more…and more! Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.Perhaps you prefer to watch as well as listen. If so, we’ve got you covered.SHOW NOTESHyundai reveals Ioniq V at Beijing Auto Show: https://carnewschina.com/2026/06/15/hyundai-ioniq-v-fastback-revealed-66-8-kwh-battery-and-620-km-range/ Hyundai’s global R&D chief says next-gen N EVs will be better at faking ICE cars: https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/electric-cars/hyundai-developing-even-more-realistic-electric-n-cars Hyundai pays $325 million for remaining 10% stake in Boston Dynamics: https://www.gadgetreview.com/softbank-walks-away-from-boston-dynamics-for-325-million-hands-hyundai-the-keys GM fires 1,000 factory workers and replaces them with robots: https://www.autoblog.com/news/gm-cut-1000-workers-at-its-ev-plant-then-added-robots Deathwatch? Lucid lays off 18% of staff: https://electrek.co/2026/06/22/lucid-lays-off-18-percent-second-cut-four-months/ Lucid lays off COO Marc Winterhoff (who was interim CEO) and is eliminating COO position: https://eletric-vehicles.com/lucid/lucid-coo-exit-ends-undisclosed-eight-year-relationship/ Jeep Recon is a huge electron-guzzler: https://insideevs.com/news/799088/2026-jeep-recon-epa-range-efficiency/ RIP Speedwagons: Porsche drops Taycan Cross and Sport Turismo from US lineup: https://www.theautopian.com/porsche-just-killed-the-beautiful-taycan-wagon-lets-see-how-cheap-we-can-find-a-used-one/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy Boston DynamicsMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E276 Jun 25, 2026 57 min 77 annotations

275: A Lot of Rivian

Rivian is in the news! From R2 production to R3 expectations, radio features, CalTrans orders, and more, this week’s podcast is packed full of Rivian goodness. But before we get there, first we tackle the BMW M Concept Neue Klasse unveiling, Tesla Cybercab EPA figures, the promise of Telo production, and more!Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.Perhaps you prefer to watch as well as listen. If so, we’ve got you covered.SHOW NOTESBMW unveils M Concept Neue Klasse: https://www.motor1.com/news/798518/bmw-electric-m3-concept/ Tesla Cybercab specs revealed in EPA docs: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a71590701/tesla-cybercab-specs-epa-documents-revealed/ Telo claims it has secured a supplier for the MT1’s “Body-in-White”: https://insideevs.com/news/798776/telo-mt1-production-update-partnership/ In an interview with The Drive, RJ Scaringe says R3 and R3X will enter production by the end of the decade:https://www.thedrive.com/news/r2-profits-r4-is-very-cool-rad-variants-rivians-ceo-just-gave-us-the-roadmap CalTrans orders 524 more Rivian R1s for its fleet: https://www.electrive.com/2026/06/15/caltrans-orders-524-additional-evs-from-rivian/ Rivian R2 drops traditional radio tuning for all-streaming audio: https://www.carscoops.com/2026/06/rivian-r2-fm-radio/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy RivianMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E275 Jun 18, 2026 59 min 102 annotations

274: Wipe the Slate Clean

The Rivian R2 is in the hands of journalists, and the reviews are in. On this week’s podcast, we discuss whether the sprightly new offering from this EV maker will be enough to take on Tesla and its dominant Model Y. Things are looking good for Rivian, but are they also looking good for the likes of Slate and Telo, especially with Ford’s new low cost EV pickup being developed? We stare into our crystal ball to see whether Ford is about to wipe the slate clean. Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.Perhaps you prefer to watch as well as listen. If so, we’ve got you covered.SHOW NOTESFerrari Design Team designs an HP laptop: https://www.tweaktown.com/news/112095/hps-new-limited-edition-ferrari-laptop-is-made-from-carbon-fiber-and-glass/index.htmlRivian R2 first drive review roundup: https://electrek.co/2026/06/09/rivian-r2-first-drive-this-is-everything-i-need-to-upgrade-my-model-y-except/ https://insideevs.com/reviews/798129/rivian-r2-first-drive-review/ https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a71483800/2027-rivian-r2-drive/ https://www.thedrive.com/car-reviews/2027-rivian-r2-first-drive-review https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F8ii1R5aAMM Carvana could become the de facto nationwide franchisee for Slate: https://electrek.co/2026/06/05/carvanas-bet-on-slate-is-actually-a-bet-on-itself-as-the-future-of-automotive-retail/ Slate has amassed 150,000 (refundable) preorders to date: https://insideevs.com/reviews/786896/slate-ev-pickup-truck-everything-we-know/ Telo: https://www.telotrucks.com/ Stellantis attempting to sell Charger Daytona in Europe: https://insideevs.com/news/798063/dodge-charger-daytona-ev-gas-europe/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy SlateMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E274 Jun 11, 2026 46 min 74 annotations

273: Superiority Complex

Does electric propulsion mean a vehicle is in some way less enjoyable to drive? A recent video by Jason Camissa somewhat implies that, and we can’t help but discuss on this week’s podcast. In other news, Lotus recommits to ICE development, Rolls-Royce updates its Spectre with NACS and more, Rivian R2 looks efficient, and Hummer reveals a wild new concept car.Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.Perhaps you prefer to watch as well as listen. If so, we’ve got you covered.SHOW NOTESJason Camissa says “Gasoline is far too precious a resource to be wasted on those who are not enjoying the act of combusting it”: https://youtu.be/l74of0u_RBE?si=mNNC1yGoxh6PoHj6&t=612 Lotus recommits to ICE development: https://www.motor1.com/news/797272/lotus-thought-electric-vehicles-future/ Rolls-Royce Spectre gets more range, power, NACS port: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a71473034/2027-rolls-royce-spectre-details/ Rivian R2 matches Tesla Model Y Performance on EPA test despite boxier profile, heavier weight: https://electrek.co/2026/05/29/rivian-r2-epa-efficiency-matches-tesla-model-y/ GM shows Hummer X midsize pickup & SUV concepts, says “No plans for production”: https://insideevs.com/news/797175/gmc-hummer-x-suv-pickup-midsize-concept/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy Rolls-RoyceMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E273 Jun 04, 2026 51 min 95 annotations

272: Ferrari's Apple Car

Ferrari unveils its first fully electric vehicle, and the reviews are mixed. From its Jony Ive (of Apple fame) exterior and interior design to its stated performance, the reviews are…well…mixed. And on this week’s podcast, we also have opinions. Also this week, Lucid takes back a lemon, Citroën trots out a new 2CV, VinFast hits gen two, and more!Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.Perhaps you prefer to watch as well as listen. If so, we’ve got you covered.SHOW NOTESFerrari Luce unveiled: https://electrek.co/2026/05/25/ferrari-luce-first-electric-ferrari-hands-on-rome-launch/ Lucid takes back Jason Fenske’s (Engineering Explained) Lucid Air under Lemon Law: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wrz1LXNm9cI The Citroën 2CV is coming back, as an EV: https://insideevs.com/news/796705/citroen-2cv-back-as-ev/ VinFast Unveils second-gen VF8 in Vietnam. Smaller, lower-cost: https://insideevs.com/news/796859/vinfast-vf8-new-generation-2025-specs/ Toyota study says (its) PHEV drivers plug in regularly: https://electriccarsreport.com/2026/05/do-plug-in-hybrids-really-work-toyota-study-says-yes/ Man in Grapevine, TX, drives his Cybertruck into a lake to use “Wade Mode” … gets stuck … and arrested.https://abc7news.com/post/driver-intentionally-drove-cybertruck-lake-use-vehicles-wade-mode-police-say/19138612/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy FerrariMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E272 May 28, 2026 49 min 85 annotations

271: A Super Duper Car

The Mercedes-AMG GT EV is unveiled, with some interesting styling choices. Does this car have what it takes to become a Porsche Taycan killer? That’s just one of the topics discussed on this week’s podcast. We also talk about federal EV fees, Rivian R2 pricing, Honda reversing course, and more. Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.Perhaps you prefer to watch as well as listen. If so, we’ve got you covered.SHOW NOTESBill in Congress proposing national fee for EVs/PHEVs: https://www.autoblog.com/news/ev-owners-lost-tax-credits-now-lawmakers-want-a-yearly-fee Mercedes shows AMG GT EV: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a71337669/2027-mercedes-amg-gt-4-door-ev-revealed/ ID.Buzz is back for ‘27, adds new trims: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a71305922/2027-volkswagen-id-buzz-return-details/ Official specs drop on ID.Polo GTI: https://insideevs.com/news/796000/vw-id-polo-gti-reveal/ Rivian R2 configurator opens: https://electrek.co/2026/05/15/rivian-r2-configurator-live-pricing-options/ Honda retreats from all-EV by 2040 pledge: https://www.teslarati.com/honda-gives-up-on-all-ev-future-not-realistic/ California launches Clean Fuel Reward program for commercial trucks: https://ww2.arb.ca.gov/news/california-launching-1-billion-rebate-program-electric-trucks Cybertruck stuck on beach yanked out of trouble by Toyota Sienna: https://www.thedrive.com/news/minivan-to-the-rescue-beached-cybertruck-extracted-by-a-rental-spec-sienna This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy Mercedes-AMGMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E271 May 21, 2026 54 min 75 annotations

270: Morbid Curiosity

Call it morbid curiosity, but we couldn’t help but revisit the topic of the Cadillac Lyriq hearse, especially since there are now photos of the finished product. We take a look. We also look at Toyota’s Woven City, how Tesla’s Robotaxis are doing, whether non-geofenced, fully autonomous cabs will ever exist, and more. Then we say goodbye to the Tesla Model X and S. Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.Perhaps you prefer to watch as well as listen. If so, we’ve got you covered.SHOW NOTESWe finally have pics of the Lyriq hearse: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a71258861/cadillac-lyriq-hearse-details/ Cadillac EVs also popular with the living: https://insideevs.com/news/795368/cadillac-75-percent-buyers-new/ GM settles driver data selling lawsuit in California for $12.75 million: https://www.thedrive.com/news/shady-selling-of-driver-data-just-cost-gm-another-12-75-million Toyota’s Woven City: https://insideevs.com/features/795380/toyota-woven-city-tour-2026/ Reuters tests Robotaxi in Dallas with hilarious consequences: https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/teslas-robotaxi-rollout-features-texas-sized-wait-times-2026-05-12/ Electrek goes past the paywall on the Reuter’s article: https://electrek.co/2026/05/12/tesla-robotaxi-convenience-issues-hide-safety-bottleneck/ The last Tesla Model S and Model X rolled off the Fremont assembly line: https://insideevs.com/news/795519/tesla-model-s-x-production/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy Wolf Coach BuildersMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E270 May 14, 2026 58 min 66 annotations

269: Mutually Assured Destruction

Between Jaecoo, BYD, Yangwang, and Geely, Chinese automakers are most definitely coming. In fact, in Europe, they’re already there, and selling well. Is what’s keeping them from the U.S. fear on America’s side, or is there a legitimate reason to keep these vehicles from our shores? We look at some recent news and chew on what it all means. Also, Rivian ups production capacity, the Tesla Semi gets a slow charger, and more!Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.Perhaps you prefer to watch as well as listen. If so, we’ve got you covered.SHOW NOTES“Temu Range Rover” Jaecoo J7 tops UK sales charts in March: https://www.theguardian.com/business/2026/may/01/jaecoo-7-china-electric-car-chery-price-temu-range-rover BYD moving into top spot for EV sales in multiple markets: https://electrek.co/2026/05/05/byd-overtakes-tesla-kia-best-selling-ev-brand-key-overseas-markets/ Yangwang U9 Extreme price announced: https://carnewschina.com/2026/04/30/byd-u9-xtreme-sold-at-2760000-becomes-most-expensive-byd-ever/ CNBC says Geely is best positioned for entry in U.S. market: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QNPzWaafsCARivian expands plans for Georgia plant: https://www.electrive.com/2026/05/04/rivian-plans-georgia-plant-50-larger/Tesla announces “Basecharger” slow-charging for big rigs: https://evchargingstations.com/chargingnews/tesla-semi-charging-business/ AAA studies effects of high/low temperatures on EVs, hybrids: https://newsroom.aaa.com/2026/05/aaa-study-reveals-temperature-impacts-on-ev-and-hybrid-performance-efficiency-and-costs/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy BYDMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E269 May 07, 2026 58 min 78 annotations

268: God's Eye

BYD reveals a wild one with its Denza Z. Is this 1,000hp roadster everything that the new Tesla Roadster isn’t…because it’s real? Also on this week’s podcast, Toyota EV sales surge, GM delays EV redesigns, Porsche steps back from Bugatti Rimac Group, VW teases the Mk9 GTI (with EV variant), and more!Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.Perhaps you prefer to watch as well as listen. If so, we’ve got you covered.SHOW NOTESTesla redesigns on the fly: https://www.facebook.com/reel/950802907550703/?mibextid=9drbnH&s=yWDuG2&fs=e BYD shows off 1,000-hp Denza Z sports car: https://insideevs.com/news/794147/denza-z-ev-roadster-1000-hp-charging-reveal/ Toyota EV sales more than double from last year: https://electrek.co/2026/04/27/toyotas-ev-sales-surge-139-drivers-seek-gas-alternatives/ GM delaying redesign of full-size EV trucks, SUVs: https://www.thedrive.com/news/gm-delays-full-size-electric-truck-and-suv-redesigns-indefinitely-report Porsche sells stake in Bugatti Rimac Group: https://www.electrive.com/2026/04/25/porsche-exits-bugatti-rimac-and-rimac-group/ VW CEO Thomas Schäfer reportedly said “Wow” at Mk9 Golf styling: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a71138991/volkswagen-mk-9-golf-new-details/ Ford Cobra Jet 2200 sets EV quarter-mile record: https://www.hagerty.com/media/news/ford-racing-mustang-cobra-jet-2200-quarter-mile-time/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy BYDMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E268 Apr 30, 2026 57 min 155 annotations

267: Nice and Juicy

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled its new C-Class EV, boasting not only the company’s bold new grille, but also a nice and juicy 94.3 kWh battery. At the same time, EV sales have surged in the EU, Lucid receives funding from two sources (but will it be enough?), BMW follows Tesla in ease of charging, and more, all on this week’s podcast.Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.Perhaps you prefer to watch as well as listen. If so, we’ve got you covered.SHOW NOTESEV sales surge in Europe in March: https://electrek.co/2026/04/20/europe-ev-sales-surge-51-percent-oil-is-the-reason-why/ Lucid gets additional investment from Uber, Saudi PIF: https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/stocks/articles/lucid-group-shares-jump-uber-154000044.html New Mercedes C-Class EV shows off its big “grille”: https://insideevs.com/reviews/793375/mercedes-benz-c-class-ev/ BMW introduces “contract-free” plug & charge in Germany: https://electriccarsreport.com/2026/04/bmw-simplifies-ev-charging-with-contract-free-plug-charge/ CATL says its newest battery can charge from 10-98% in 7 minutes: https://carnewschina.com/2026/04/21/catl-unveils-3rd-gen-shenxing-lfp-battery-charging-10-80-in-3-min-44-seconds-10-98-in-6-min-27-seconds/Sony & Honda say they’re going to continue to collaborate: https://carbuzz.com/sony-honda-partnership-still-on/ Tesla Cybertruck approved for V2G program with PG&E: https://www.electrive.com/2026/04/21/pge-and-tesla-integrate-cybertruck-into-v2g-programme/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy Mercedes-BenzMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E267 Apr 23, 2026 57 min 170 annotations

266: The Genie is Already Out of the Barrel

World news has us deviating from the norm this week, as we dive into how China became the world EV leader, under what circumstances the war in Iran could lead to increased EV adoption, why the price of diesel could affect the purchase price of your next electric vehicle, and why the world could never be “oil free.”Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.Perhaps you prefer to watch as well as listen. If so, we’ve got you covered.SHOW NOTESNo show notes this week!This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy PolestarMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E266 Apr 16, 2026 58 min 29 annotations

265: Finding Their There

This week, we discuss a number of automotive brands finding their “there” in the EV world. For starters, Toyota’s bZ gains footing while Subaru gets into the three-row EV game and Rivian’s R2 ups its efficiency. Meanwhile, Afeela’s dead, plus some politicians say Chinese cars are not welcome on America’s shores (although that ship has certainly sailed). Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.Perhaps you prefer to watch as well as listen. If so, we’ve got you covered.SHOW NOTESSony and Honda discontinue Afeela: https://www.autoweek.com/news/a70847226/sony-honda-kill-afeela-ev/ Refreshed Toyota bZ turns out to be a hit: https://electrek.co/2026/04/02/toyota-sold-more-evs-in-the-us-than-ford-q1-one-suv/ 2026 Toyota bZ doesn’t have built-in route planning in nav (suggested charging stops): https://insideevs.com/reviews/787629/2026-toyota-bz-review/ Subaru pulls sheet off 3-row Getaway: https://gizmodo.com/new-getaway-means-subaru-has-an-electric-suv-in-every-size-2000741132 Preliminary numbers show Rivian R2 could beat Tesla Model Y on efficiency: https://insideevs.com/news/792230/rivian-r2-epa-range-efficiency/ Chinese-made EVs won’t be allowed in the U.S., says American ambassador to Canada: https://www.autoblog.com/news/u-s-draws-the-line-at-the-border-chinese-evs-wont-enter-america Senator Bernie Moreno wants to enact tougher restrictions on Chinese EVs: https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/republican-senator-proposes-widen-us-ban-chinese-autos-2026-03-31/ Study claims franchise dealership model adds nearly $5,000 to the price of a new car: https://www.thedrive.com/news/study-quantifies-how-much-the-dealership-model-costs-customers-and-it-aint-pretty Tesla unveils “folding” superchargers for quicker deployment: https://www.teslarati.com/tesla-folding-supercharger-v4/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy ToyotaMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E265 Apr 09, 2026 49 min 31 annotations

264: 10 Years of Fuel Cell Ownership

This week, we speak to someone who has lived the fuel cell lifestyle for 10 years and is now at a crossroads. From gen 1 to today, Andrew Fisher has parked three Toyota Mirais in his driveway. Revealing the good, the bad, and the ugly, Andrew recounts his ownership experience and offers his advice as to whether YOU should consider owning a fuel cell vehicle.Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.Perhaps you prefer to watch as well as listen. If so, we’ve got you covered.SHOW NOTESFollow Andrew Fisher on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/afish197 This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy ToyotaMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E264 Apr 02, 2026 50 min 27 annotations

263: Slate's Biggest Competitor

With the world’s energy sources being uncertain thanks to the war, let’s talk EVs. For starters, Jay Leno recently drove the Tesla Semi (which has already undergone a redesign) and the Slate (we reveal Slate’s real competitor). Also, Lexus unveils a luxury EV sedan, Mercedes is working on a Maybach minivan, Bentley kills (most of) its future EV lineup, and more!Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.Perhaps you prefer to watch as well as listen. If so, we’ve got you covered.SHOW NOTESEVs have already displaced 70% of the oil coming out of the Persian Gulf: https://thedriven.io/2026/03/19/global-ev-fleet-avoided-oil-consumption-equivalent-to-70-pct-of-irans-exports-in-2025/ Jay Leno drives the refreshed Semi: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BCXSq1dmEB8 Lexus announces ES EV prices: https://electrek.co/2026/03/19/lexus-launches-es-ev-with-300-mi-range-undercuts-rival-prices/ Bentley reportedly stops development on four out of five planned EVs: https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/bentley/369182/bentley-kills-almost-all-its-future-ev-models-hybrids-taking-centre-stage Mercedes reportedly working on a Maybach ultra-luxury EV minivan: https://insideevs.com/news/790984/mercedes-maybach-vls-teaser-image/ BMW, Mini, Mercedes-Benz outperform EPA range estimates in Consumer Reports testing, Ford, Lucid, Rivian and Tesla at bottom: https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/real-world-ev-range-tests-models-that-beat-epa-estimates-a1103288135/ Patent applications reveals concept for trailer-mounted auxiliary battery for Cybertruck: https://electrek.co/2026/03/23/tesla-patent-dual-battery-range-extender-trailer/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy SlateMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E263 Mar 26, 2026 55 min 31 annotations

262: Preamble to the Preamble

With war raging and oil becoming scarce, what does this mean for EV adoption in the short and long term? Is this a tipping point for the EV industry? We ponder several possible outcomes. We also contrast Honda’s EV strategy with Toyota’s, and consider whether Lucid and Rivian matter in a world gone mad. Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.Perhaps you prefer to watch as well as listen. If so, we’ve got you covered.SHOW NOTESNational average for diesel tops $5: https://www.cnbc.com/2026/03/17/diesel-gas-oil-price-iran-war-hormuz.html Car shoppers are paying more attention to EVs as gas prices rise: https://www.edmunds.com/car-news/electrified-vehicle-research-gas-prices-data.html Honda cancels its three EVs, the 0 SUV, 0 sedan, and Acura RSX EV: https://arstechnica.com/cars/2026/03/facing-heavy-losses-honda-cancels-its-three-us-made-electric-vehicles/ Volvo drops EX30 for the U.S. market: https://www.thedrive.com/news/the-volvo-ex30-is-dead-in-the-us-exclusive Lucid announces Earth, Cosmos, un-named midsize SUV: https://insideevs.com/news/789809/lucid-cosmos-earth-ev-suv-official/ Rivian announces R2 pricing: https://electrek.co/2026/03/12/rivian-reveals-full-r2-lineup-pricing-rwd-model/ Trump orders restart of Santa Barbara oil pipeline off coast: https://calmatters.org/environment/2026/03/trump-emergency-sable-santa-barbara/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy Lucid MotorsMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E262 Mar 19, 2026 52 min 29 annotations

261: itselectric, Three Years Later

This week, itselectric co-founders Tiya Gordon and Nathan King join us on the podcast for an update on their innovative bring-your-own-cable curbside charging company. Over the years, Nathan and Tiya have brought itselectric from concept to reality, with curbside chargers in six cities, with a seventh on the way. And that’s only the beginning. Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.Perhaps you prefer to watch as well as listen. If so, we’ve got you covered.SHOW NOTESitselectrichttps://itselectric.us/ [email protected] Previous episodes and articles:Episode 117, May 2023: https://www.thewattcar.com/home/twc-podcast-117-curbside-ev-charging-with-itselectrics-nathan-king May 2023 article: https://www.thewattcar.com/home/byoc-finally-comes-to-america-with-itselectric Episode 182, Aug. 2024: https://www.thewattcar.com/home/twc-podcast-182-its-been-a-year-catching-up-with-itselectric This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy itselectric.usMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E261 Mar 12, 2026 50 min 36 annotations

260: That's RAD

Rivian launches RAD, its Rivian Adventure Department. On this week’s podcast, we try to determine whether we’ve gone crazy, because we thought Rivian was an adventure brand this whole time. Other topics on this week’s episode include whether BYD’s efficiency is catching Lucid, if VinFast’s next brand is too good for itself, whether Tesla’s megawatt charging is a game changer, plus more!Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.Perhaps you prefer to watch as well as listen. If so, we’ve got you covered.SHOW NOTESBYD brand Denza claims longest-range EV: https://electrek.co/2026/02/27/byds-new-luxury-ev-has-worlds-longest-range-at-1036-km/ VinFast launches Lac Hong upscale brand: https://www.electrive.com/2026/03/03/vinfast-formalises-lac-hong-ultra-luxury-car-brand-reveals-two-new-models/ Rivian launches Rivian Adventure Department (RAD): https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a70540244/rivian-rad-division-revealed/ Bill in Washington State would give Rivian and Lucid same status as Tesla: https://washingtonstatestandard.com/2026/03/02/for-rivian-and-lucid-path-finally-emerges-for-direct-to-consumer-car-sales/ Tesla announces major expansion of Megacharger network: https://insideevs.com/news/788598/tesla-megawatt-charger-rollout-us/ Tesla regains market share in Europe in February, still below historical benchmarks: https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/tesla-gains-market-france-norway-february-2026-03-02/ BGR rounds up top 5 EVs sold in U.S. with lowest costs of maintenance: https://www.bgr.com/2109932/electric-vehicles-cheapest-maintenance/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy RivianMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E260 Mar 05, 2026 48 min 33 annotations

259: Unpacking Things

There’s a lot to unpack this week. First, with Trump’s IEEPA tariffs being struck down as illegal, what does this mean for the world of EVs? Long story short, we’re unsure, but there’s still a lot to unpack based on what we do know. Then, we know the top five Chinese EVs we’d like to see make it to U.S. shores — the question is, would the price be right? We unpack whether our fantasy pick of Chinese cars would stand a chance on American soil.Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.Perhaps you prefer to watch as well as listen. If so, we’ve got you covered.SHOW NOTESSupreme Court finds Trump’s IEEPA tariffs are illegal: https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/supreme-court/live-blog/-trump-tariffs-ruling-supreme-court-live-updates-rcna252655 Related, on Episode 257, we discussed BYD suing Trump administration over IEEPA tariffs: BYD sues the US government on tariffs: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/byd-sues-us-government-over-165900311.htmlPolestar says EV wagon is “absolutely” coming to the U.S.: https://insideevs.com/news/787705/polestar-4-station-wagon-ev-absolutely-us-sales/This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy NioMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E259 Feb 26, 2026 53 min 43 annotations

258: It Depends on Context

Toyota’s big news involves the announcement of two new EVs, and neither overwhelm nor disappoint. We have the specs. We also have news on Ford’s new low-cost EV development, and everything looks good! In other news, the elimination of stop-start tech may lead to more hybrids, Chinese automakers may be getting closer to the U.S., and more.Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.Perhaps you prefer to watch as well as listen. If so, we’ve got you covered.SHOW NOTESToyota Highlander EV debuts. Similar specs to bZ: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a70293168/2027-toyota-highlander-ev-revealed/ Toyota bZ Woodland: https://electrek.co/2026/02/17/toyota-reveals-2026-bz-woodland-prices-newest-electric-suv/ More details on Ford’s low-cost EV platform emerge: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a70390625/2028-ford-mid-size-electric-truck-details/ EPA “eliminates” auto stop/start: https://www.theautopian.com/the-epa-just-eliminated-automaker-benefits-for-stop-start-tech-heres-what-that-means-for-your-next-car/ Trump’s EPA revokes scientific finding that underpinned US fight against climate change https://apnews.com/live/trump-immigration-climate-change-2-12-2026 Volvo says new chassis architecture could enable a wagon comeback: https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/volvo-estates-could-return-new-platform-allows-proper-low-evs Geely, BYD, VinFast eyeing takeover of Nissan/Mercedes plant in Mexico: https://www.cnbc.com/2026/02/12/seeking-mexico-foothold-chinas-byd-and-geely-bid-to-buy-car-plant.html This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy ToyotaMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E258 Feb 19, 2026 53 min 40 annotations

257: When Will Then Be Now?

As the Toyota Highlander goes all EV, what does that mean for the rest of Toyota’s lineup? Is the RAV4 next? Will the bZ be put out of its misery? We discuss the possibilities on this week’s podcast. Plus, Tesla’s Semi nears production (this time maybe for real), China bans retractable door handles, and more!Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.Perhaps you prefer to watch as well as listen. If so, we’ve got you covered.SHOW NOTESToyota Highlander goes full EV: https://www.carscoops.com/2026/02/toyota-highlander-ev-suv-launch/Nissan announces pricing for Rogue PHEV: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a70300002/2026-nissan-rogue-hybrid-pricing/Tesla reveals final specs on production Semi: https://www.cleantrucking.com/battery-electric/article/15816649/tesla-semi-final-specs-range-power-fast-chargingChina bans retractable door handles in 2027+ models: https://arstechnica.com/cars/2026/02/china-bans-all-retractable-car-door-handles-starting-next-year/Canada changes its “EV Mandate” for a more flexible approach: https://www.cbc.ca/lite/story/9.7075302BYD sues the US government on tariffs: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/byd-sues-us-government-over-165900311.htmlFerrari EV gets a name, sneak peek of interior: https://www.engadget.com/transportation/evs/inside-ferraris-luce-ev-the-jony-ive-interior-is-here-130000211.htmlThis week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy ToyotaMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E257 Feb 12, 2026 60 min 40 annotations

256: Poverty Spec

Tesla’s Model S and X, the upper echelon of its lineup, will soon be dead. What do we get instead? A “poverty spec” Model Y and the promise of Optimus production. That could be an entire episode of The Watt Car podcast, but we don’t stop there. Also on this week’s docket: Chevy’s Blazer weighs three tons, Xiaomi’s SU7 Ultra sales crater, and more.Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.Perhaps you prefer to watch as well as listen. If so, we’ve got you covered.SHOW NOTESTesla to kill off the Model S and X: https://techcrunch.com/2026/01/28/tesla-is-killing-off-the-model-s-and-model-x/ Tesla adds a poverty-spec Model Y AWD to lineup: https://insideevs.com/news/786221/tesla-model-y-awd-cheaper-version-standard/ Chevy Blazer EV SS more than 1,200 lbs heavier than Model Y Performance: https://insideevs.com/reviews/785990/2026-chevy-blazer-ev-ss-review/ Sales of Xiaomi SU7 Ultra drop off a cliff: https://electrek.co/2026/01/31/sales-of-the-ultra-fast-xiaomi-su7-ultra-have-ultra-plummeted-to-under-50-units/Hyundai pausing Kona EV for 2026: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a70245408/hyundai-kona-electric-skipping-2026-model-year/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy TeslaMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E256 Feb 05, 2026 49 min 42 annotations

255: The Bolt Shall Live Again...Or Maybe It Won’t

The Bolt is back, but not for long. This time, Chevy is killing its affordable EV to make room for Buick production. Is this the right move? We ponder the decision on this week’s podcast. We also discuss GM’s plug-and-charge compatibility with Electrify America, air quality shifts due to EV adoption, and more. Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.Perhaps you prefer to watch as well as listen. If so, we’ve got you covered.SHOW NOTESThe Bolt is dead again, this time making room for a gas Buick and Chevy Equinox: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a70108311/2027-chevy-bolt-in-production-for-18-months/ Electrified vehicles outsell ICE in Europe for the first time: https://www.acea.auto/pc-registrations/new-car-registrations-1-8-in-2025-battery-electric-17-4-market-share/ Adoption of EVs has made a measurable impact on California air quality, according to study: https://www.theautopian.com/one-state-has-purchased-enough-electric-cars-to-make-the-air-measurably-cleaner-study/ GM joins Electrify America to enable Plug & Charge: https://electrek.co/2026/01/26/gm-plugs-in-electrify-america-to-make-ev-charging-a-breeze/ Judge rules Trump’s suspension of NEVI funding was illegal: https://www.evinfrastructurenews.com/ev-policies/untitled 0% financing on EV purchase deals: https://electrek.co/2026/01/23/all-the-evs-you-can-buy-with-0-financing-in-january-2026/ Geely said it will start production on solid-state batteries in 2026: https://www.techradar.com/vehicle-tech/hybrid-electric-vehicles/650-miles-from-one-charge-volvos-parent-company-beats-tesla-to-the-punch-with-first-production-ready-solid-state-battery VW changing the name of the ID.4 to the ID Tiguan: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a70107417/volkswagen-id4-to-id-tiguan-name-change/ SC-01 sports car concept going into production: https://www.motor1.com/news/785194/china-electric-sports-car-europe/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy ChevroletMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E255 Jan 29, 2026 58 min 36 annotations

254: The Michigan of Canada

Canada seemingly counters increasing U.S. tensions by welcoming Chinese automakers into The Great White North. Could this tariff decrease be all that’s needed to bring a cascade of Chinese EVs to North America? There’s more to the story, which we cover on this week’s podcast. We also chat about Kia’s new concept EV, an update on Rivian’s R2, and more!Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.Perhaps you prefer to watch as well as listen. If so, we’ve got you covered.SHOW NOTESCanada strikes trade deal with China, 49,000 Chinese EVs per year at 6.1% tariff: https://www.reuters.com/world/china/canada-china-set-make-historic-gains-new-partnership-says-carney-2026-01-16/ One of the biggest potential beneficiaries of the Canada/China trade deal? Tesla: https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/tesla-poised-be-early-winner-canada-opens-door-chinese-made-evs-2026-01-19/ Guess what the best-selling SUV in China was for 2025? Hint: It wasn’t BYD or Geely: https://carnewschina.com/2026/01/19/2025-best-selling-suv-ranking-in-china-no-byd-model-in-top-5-tesla-model-y-took-lead/ Kia Vision Meta Turismo Concept has wedgy styling reminiscent of the Honda 0: https://electrek.co/2026/01/19/kia-new-halo-ev-best-look/ RJ Scaringe says “validation” builds of the R2 are coming off the line in Illinois: https://x.com/RJScaringe/status/2011936932419268653?s=20 Germany brings back EV credit for 2026: https://www.electrive.com/2026/01/19/ev-incentive-scheme-applies-retroactively-from-1-january-2026/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy GeelyMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E254 Jan 22, 2026 49 min 34 annotations

253: Catching the CES Bug

Ed’s back from the CES Show, and he brings with him a boatload of EV insights and an unhealthy dose of the CES flu. The big takeaway from CES, though, is that Chinese automakers are America-bound, and they’re not kidding around. In other news, California may offer new EV incentives, Stellantis kills its PHEVs, and more!Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.Perhaps you prefer to watch as well as listen. If so, we’ve got you covered.SHOW NOTESGeely says it will be in U.S. market in 2-3 years: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a69935127/geely-enter-american-market-possible-zeekr-models/ Chinese vacuum company brings EV supercar to CES: https://carbuzz.com/dreame-nebula-next-debut-ces-2026/ It’s not all about EVs…China’s Great Wall Motor shows twin-turbo V8, and 2000cc flat-8 in a Gold Wing-like Motorcycle: https://www.autoblog.com/news/a-chinese-automaker-just-unveiled-a-new-twin-turbo-v8-at-ces and https://www.theautopian.com/the-craziest-new-motorcycle-has-an-8-cylinder-boxer-engine-and-its-coming-to-america/ California proposing bringing back EV incentives: https://insideevs.com/news/783995/california-to-revive-ev-incentives-200-million/ Stellantis kills all PHEV models in the U.S.: https://www.thedrive.com/news/all-jeep-and-chrysler-plug-in-hybrid-models-are-officially-dead-exclusive Tim Kuniskis, the man synonymous with the Hemi’s re-birth and SRT, says electrification is “invevitable” because it is “better.”: https://www.thedrive.com/news/rams-v8-loving-ceo-says-electrification-is-fantastic-and-will-take-over This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy DreameMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E253 Jan 15, 2026 46 min 35 annotations