The Watt Car EV Podcast

248: Make the Lightning Great Again

Is Elon Musk asking for too much money? Is RJ Scaringe asking for too little? Is Ford scrapping the F-150 Lightning? Is Toyota going to win the EV battery war? There’s a lot to talk about this week, so that’s exactly what we do on the latest episode of The Watt Car EV Podcast!SHOW NOTESMusk’s colossal pay package approved by shareholders by a 75% margin: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/11/06/tesla-shareholders-musk-pay.html Rivian gives RJ Scaringe a $4.7 billion long-term pay package: https://techcrunch.com/2025/11/07/rivian-gives-rj-scaringe-a-new-pay-package-worth-up-to-5b/ Ford reportedly considering ending production of the F-150 Lightning: https://arstechnica.com/cars/2025/11/ford-says-no-exact-date-to-restart-f-150-lightning-production/ Toyota targeting 40-year lifespan for its upcoming solid-state batteries: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/toyota-targeting-40-year-lifespan-for-its-solid-state-batteries Toyota unveils Hilux EV: https://insideevs.com/news/778442/new-toyota-hilux-ev-2025-official-specs/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy FordMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E248 Nov 13, 2025 52 min 34 annotations

247: Looks at Our Shorts!

Toyota wows audiences at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show (aka Tokyo Auto Show) with its Corolla concept. What does the future hold in store for this looker? We consider the options. We also consider the Kia EV4 delay, the Mazda 6e, Toyota’s latest fuel cell, and our new shorts. Check out this week’s podcast! SHOW NOTESToyota Corolla concept: https://insideevs.com/news/777252/toyota-corolla-concept-japan-mobility/ Kia EV4 delayed “indefinitely” for the US market: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a69207203/kia-ev4-delayed-indefinitely-united-states/ The Autopian’s Adrian Clarke drives the (not sold in the U.S.) Mazda 6e EV sedan: https://www.theautopian.com/i-drove-the-new-rwd-mazda-and-its-not-the-enthusiasts-dream-sedan-yet/ Toyota’s CTO says he wants the company to make ICE “Until the very end”: https://www.thedrive.com/news/toyota-wants-to-be-the-last-company-making-engines-and-its-not-shy-about-that Tacoma’s fuel cell SEMA car https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a69229564/toyota-tacoma-h2-overlander-concept-sema/ The new Leaf outperforms in Edmunds range test: https://www.edmunds.com/car-news/2026-nissan-leaf-ev-range-tested.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

S1E247 Nov 06, 2025 48 min 38 annotations

246: Could This Be National Security?

With the U.S. government and several automotive manufacturers stepping back from EVs, is this the beginning of the end for electrification? Then, if EVs are still the future, are the car makers that are swapping to more ICE, PHEV, and hybrid technology setting themselves up for short-term success but long-term failure? Is there also a national security angle to all of this? We do a deep dive on this week’s podcast. SHOW NOTESNone this week!This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy FordMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E246 Oct 30, 2025 53 min 35 annotations

245: PHEVgate?

There’s an emissions scandal brewing, this time around PHEV and EREV technology. Could this be the next Dieselgate? We talk about that, plus Scout booting its BEV, GM dropping BrightDrop, Porsche introducing a tweener EV, and more, all on this week’s podcast.SHOW NOTESEuropean study says PHEVs/EREVs are no better for the environment than ICE: https://www.transportenvironment.org/articles/smoke-screen-the-growing-phev-emissions-scandal Scout BEV reportedly put on the back burner on strong pre-orders of EREV version, cash crunch at VW Group: https://www.theautopian.com/scout-to-reportedly-build-hybrid-trucks-first/ GM drops BrightDrop: https://insideevs.com/news/776511/gm-brightdrop-production-ending-2025/ Porsche debuts tweener Macan EV GTS: https://insideevs.com/news/776417/2026-porsche-macan-gts-official-specs-price/ Germany looking to revive EV subsidy: https://www.electrive.com/2025/10/13/germany-new-ev-subsidy-returns-as-purchase-incentive-also-for-used-cars/ Engineering Explains breaks down why Corvette ZR1 is faster around the Nüburgring than the Yangwang U9 Xtreme, with nearly 1/3 the power: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TynF7R7q6c8 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

S1E245 Oct 23, 2025 51 min 37 annotations

244: That’s a Heck of a Front End, Buddy

What a Vision! The Mercedes-Benz Vision Icon concept is unveiled, and it’s a bold move — but is it also the right move? We talk about that…but not until the end of the podcast. First, there’s news about the second coming of the Chevy Bolt, Ferrari’s Elettrica specs, Polestar’s floundering Chinese-market sales, and more!SHOW NOTESChevy Bolt gets low-key unveil: https://insideevs.com/news/775172/2027-chevrolet-bolt-range-price-revealed/ Ferrari unveils specs of its first electric vehicle, the Elettrica: https://arstechnica.com/cars/2025/10/everything-we-know-about-ferraris-first-electric-vehicle/ The Ferrari Elettrica will have amplified “natural” sound: https://www.thedrive.com/news/heres-how-ferrari-plans-to-give-evs-a-cool-natural-sound Polestar reportedly exiting the China market: https://www.electrive.com/2025/10/13/polestar-global-sales-up-13-in-q3-as-it-exits-china-retail-network/ GM cancels its fuel cell development program: https://fuelcellsworks.com/2025/10/13/energy-development/gm-ends-next-generation-hydrogen-fuel-cell-development-program Mercedes unveils swoopy, bold Vision Iconic concept: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a69021391/mercedes-vision-iconic-concept-revealed/ 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

S1E244 Oct 16, 2025 49 min 45 annotations

243: Decontented, Effectively

Tesla’s base model is finally here…and it’s a Model Y overflowing with a lack of features. The price is also dangerously close to the next trim level, which begs the question: Is the “Standard” Model Y worth the money? Also on this week’s podcast, V2L comes to the Model Y Performance, Hyundai drops the price of the Ioniq 5, Zeeker cranks the voltage, and more!SHOW NOTESTesla Model Y “Standard” officially debuts: https://insideevs.com/news/774980/2026-tesla-model-y-standard-affordable-ev/ Tesla Model Y Performance now offers 120V V2L output (basically, like Hyundai’s had for several years): https://www.teslarati.com/tesla-model-y-performance-killer-feature-beyond-speed/ 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 gets massive price cut in response to end of $7,500 EV tax credit: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a68157139/2026-hyundai-ioniq-5-pricing/ Zeekr 001 gets upgraded to 900V architecture: https://electrek.co/2025/10/06/zeekr-001-design-refresh-900v-architecture-7-minute-charging/ NEVI funds un-frozen, DOT looks to expedite buildout: https://www.politico.com/news/2025/10/05/states-scramble-for-charger-cash-despite-trumps-chill-on-evs-00585857 EV Motorcycle maker Zero moving headquarters from Scotts Valley (Santa Cruz area) to Netherlands: https://www.motorcycle.com/bikes/zero-is-moving-to-europe-44650621 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

S1E243 Oct 09, 2025 46 min 32 annotations

242: Are EVs Too Fast? Maybe

Are EVs too fast? What a ridiculous question! Other than…maybe? The question is not actually so much about outright acceleration, but more about what the industry is prioritizing over other meaningful developments for electric vehicles. On this week’s podcast, we consider the options. SHOW NOTESJason Barlow, writing for Wired, says EVs have gotten too powerful: https://www.wired.com/story/evs-have-gotten-too-powerful/ 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

S1E242 Oct 02, 2025 45 min 16 annotations

241: All the Names

Ram’s battery electric pickup is dead while the range extended version lives on…with ALL the names. The Ram Ramcharger REV will be Ram’s only “electrified” pickup and will see a gasoline engine power a battery, which in turn powers electric motors — and it’s our contention that this is the right move. Are we correct? Also, Yangwang resets its own record, Jeep axes the Glatiator 4xe, BMW rides the hydrogen train, and more. SHOW NOTESYangwang U9 Xtreme hits 308 mph, setting production car record: https://www.topgear.com/car-news/electric/yangwang-u9-xtreme-hits-308mph-becomes-worlds-fastest-ever-production-car Ram cancels battery-electric pickup, will rename Ramcharger REV: https://www.electrive.com/2025/09/15/ram-drops-bev-plans-bets-on-range-extended-1500-rev/ Jeep Gladiator 4xe axed: https://tfltruck.com/2025/09/jeep-gladiator-4xe-phev-canceled-news/ Hyundai teases EREV models coming in 2027: https://insideevs.com/news/772645/hyundai-erev-2027-release/ Hyundai to build body-on-frame midsize pickup for the U.S. market: https://www.thedrive.com/news/body-on-frame-hyundai-truck-coming-to-us-by-2030-suv-likely-next New BMW iX5 will be offered with 5 powertrain options, including fuel cell: https://electrek.co/2025/09/22/bmw-teams-tup-with-toyota-for-ix5-hydrogen-suv-but-why/ Panasonic reportedly developing anode-free battery: https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/panasonic-aims-develop-groundbreaking-ev-battery-about-two-years-2025-09-18/ Nissan dropping Ariya from U.S. market, presumably to focus on the new Leaf: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a67948305/nissan-ariya-canceled/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy StellantisMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E241 Sep 25, 2025 53 min 21 annotations

240: Konect-ing the Dots

This week, we sit down with Konect’s president Merrick Glass to discuss findings in Konect’s most recent EV charging survey. As a division of fuel pump giant Gilbarco Veeder-Root, Konect understands the international fueling industry (be it liquid or electrons) on a level few companies can.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 NOTESKonect survey: https://www.gilbarco.com/eu/blog/its-about-time-ev-drivers-want-convenient-charging-and-theyre-willing-pay-itFor more information about Konect: https://www.gilbarco.com/us/products/konect This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy Gilbarco Veeder-RootMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E240 Sep 18, 2025 46 min 3 annotations

239: Multipass

Tesla is trying new things, but will it pay off? From the Netherlands-exclusive Multipass to private-labeling Superchargers, things are getting interesting in Tesla’s charging world. Also, BMW unveils the iX3, Mercedes reveals the GLC EV, Ferrari rebirths the Testarossa in PHEV form, 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 NOTESElon Musk becoming trillionaire? https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/tesla-offers-mammoth-1-trillion-pay-package-musk-sets-lofty-targets-2025-09-05/ BMW unveils the 2026 iX3: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a65933273/2026-bmw-ix3-revealed/ Mercedes unveils the next-gen GLC EV: https://insideevs.com/news/771403/mercedes-glc-ev-reveal/ Ferrari Testarossa returns, as a PHEV: https://www.motor1.com/news/771726/ferrari-849-testarossa-debut-horsepower-specs-details/ Tesla starts offering B2B sales of Superchargers: https://www.teslarati.com/tesla-launches-new-supercharger-program-business-owners-will-love/ Tesla launches “Multipass” in Netherlands, allowing owners to use Tesla key for third-party charging: https://www.teslarati.com/tesla-launches-multipass-to-simplify-charging-at-non-tesla-stations/ 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

S1E239 Sep 11, 2025 47 min 10 annotations

238: Junk in Your Trunk

Are messy garages hampering EV adoption? A recent article says yes, in fact, they are! We dive into why that might be the case. We also discuss a 3,000hp Yangwang, the Mercedes-AMG GT XX setting records, Porsche Cayenne EV hitting the road, 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 NOTESAre junk-filled garages hampering EV adoption?: https://arstechnica.com/cars/2025/08/junk-filled-garages-hurt-ev-sales-as-people-dont-have-room-for-chargers/ 3,000hp BYD Yangwang U9 Track Edition sets new EV top speed record: https://electrek.co/2025/08/26/byds-ferrari-slaying-supercar-shatters-ev-speed-record/ Mercedes-AMG GT XX Concept sets a bunch of records: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a65889576/mercedes-concept-amg-gt-xx-ev-records/ Porsche previews 2026 Cayenne EV: https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a65810736/2026-porsche-cayenne-electric-prototype-drive/ RJ Scaringe says it doesn’t take a “huge amount of imagination” to envision an R2 pickup: https://insideevs.com/news/769584/rivian-r2-truck-rj-scaringe/ Tesla offers to re-install turn signal stalk in Highland Model 3s…for a price: https://www.teslarati.com/tesla-bringing-back-something-it-took-from-model-3-for-a-price/ 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

S1E238 Aug 28, 2025 0 min 19 annotations

237: Ed’s Cost of Ownership

What is the real cost of ownership of an EV? This week, Ed goes through his experience with his 2019 Tesla Model 3 SR+, and he brings the receipts … literally. Has it been a good experience? Would he do it again? Will his next car be a Tesla, or even an EV? Listen to find out!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 NOTESHere’s that one link we talked about in this episode: https://youtu.be/yaPZDvXnuxw?si=IFsQEfoAv5_I90nu This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art by Phil RoyleMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E237 Aug 21, 2025 57 min 16 annotations

236: There is no Escape

Ford unveils its universal EV platform, but when you consider where these vehicles will be made, it turns out we may be left with no Escape…literally. Also on this week’s podcast, is the Chevy Camaro returning as an EV, could Lucid be doomed, and is Tesla really, really going to mass produce the Semi…finally?Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.SHOW NOTESFord reveals “Universal EV Platform”: https://www.wired.com/story/fords-answer-to-china-a-completely-new-way-of-making-cars/ GM hints the Camaro is returning…as an EV: https://electrek.co/2025/08/11/chevy-camaro-ev-will-bring-some-serious-muscle/ Is Lucid doomed?: https://www.jalopnik.com/1934644/lucid-trouble-saudis-might-not-rescue/ Tesla claims Semi is going into mass production in 2026: https://www.teslarati.com/elon-musk-reaffirms-tesla-semi-mass-production-in-2026/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy FordMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E236 Aug 14, 2025 36 min

235: Stop, Collaborate, and Listen

Perhaps Chevrolet’s engineers were so busy trying to drive a Silverado EV 1,000+ miles on a single charge that they never asked whether they should. We discuss that, and propose what would perhaps be a better test for the powerhouse of an EV pickup. Also on this week’s podcast, the new Chevy Bolt is teased, Tesla sales are actually pretty good, 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 NOTESGM teases spy shots of the ‘27 Chevy Bolt: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a65551237/2027-chevy-bolt-teaser/ Chevy engineers top 1,000 miles in a Silverado EV. With some caveats: https://www.newsweek.com/chevy-silverado-just-went-1059-miles-one-fill-2107510 Jaguar Land Rover CEO Adrian Mardell announces retirement after controversial Jaguar re-launch: https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/jlr-ceo-adrian-mardell-retires-after-35-years-firm Tesla Model Y still best-selling EV in Europe by a significant margin: https://cleantechnica.com/2025/08/02/europe-ev-sales-report-tesla-has-1-plus-2-win-in-a-29-ev-share-market/ Tesla Model 3 (not the Model Y) out-sold the Toyota Camry in the first half of 2025, Model Y still the best-selling car in the Golden State: https://cleantechnica.com/2025/08/03/tesla-still-stands-alone-in-california-ev-market/ Tesla board approves new pay package for Musk following strike down of previous package by Delaware court: https://www.reuters.com/sustainability/boards-policy-regulation/tesla-approves-share-award-worth-29-billion-ceo-elon-musk-2025-08-04/ Mercedes-Benz shows off new “heritage-inspired” grille design for next-gen EVs: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a65576696/mercedes-benz-new-grille-design/ Porsche reconsidering all-EV strategy for Macan: https://www.motor1.com/news/767676/porsche-gas-suv-2028-launch/ Rivian follows Scout in challenging franchise dealerships in Ohio: https://www.theverge.com/news/718186/rivian-ohio-lawsuit-direct-sales-ban 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

S1E235 Aug 07, 2025 54 min

234: Generic Future Car

The new, more affordable Tesla is coming…and it’s probably going to be a decontented Model Y. Could this generic future car be the next big thing for Tesla? We chew on that topic before discussing Texas-based chip manufacturing, more EV chargers coming to the US, Ferrari testing something unexpected, 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’s highly anticipated “low-cost” model is in fact a decontented Model Y: https://www.notateslaapp.com/news/2965/teslas-affordable-model-y-leaked-video-and-list-of-changes Tesla, Samsung ink $16.5 billion chip deal: https://www.reuters.com/business/tesla-samsung-165-billion-supply-deal-may-spur-chipmakers-us-contract-business-2025-07-28/U.S. on track to add more than 16,000 charging points this year: https://insideevs.com/news/767059/record-ev-charger-deployment-q2-2025/Xiaomi SU7 Ultra seen at Ferrari’s Maranello headquarters for testing: https://www.carscoops.com/2025/07/ferrari-secretly-studying-worlds-fastest-ev-sedan-behind-closed-doors/ 7/28/25: Rich Benoit of “Rich Rebuilds” fame drives a Zeekr 001 FR: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTV_4aWRAJI 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

S1E234 Jul 31, 2025 41 min

233: Taking it to the People

Scout Motors is taking the battle to the dealerships in an attempt to get a direct-to-consumer sales model launched. The dealers, as expected, are fighting back with their own claims that Scout is actually VW. Who will win? We don’t know, but we still discuss it on this week’s podcast. Also this week, Tesla opens its drive-in charger, China tackles Europe, 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 NOTESScout Motors (division of VW Group) takes gloves off in fight with NADA: https://autos.yahoo.com/articles/scout-motors-doj-letter-urges-171105390.html Tesla diner opens: https://www.notateslaapp.com/news/2940/tesla-hollywood-diner-opens-a-look-at-the-food-merch-features-and-more-videos Tesla making a Model YL for China: https://electrek.co/2025/07/16/tesla-announces-model-yl-larger-6-seater-suv-coming-fall/ Tesla gearing up to release extended range Model 3+ in China: https://electrek.co/2025/07/17/tesla-prepares-launch-model-3-plus-800-km-500-miles-range/ Subaru Uncharted: https://insideevs.com/news/766241/2026-subaru-uncharted-ev-crossover-coupe/ BYD’s premium Yangwang brand is coming to Europe: https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/byd-primes-bentley-rivalling-yangwang-brand-european-launch Mercedes-Benz “pausing” production of EQ models due to slow demand: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a65450365/mercedes-cuts-eq-pricing-ends-us-production/ EU researchers claim to have developed “self-repairing” batteries: https://batteriesnews.com/self-repairing-batteries-promise-longer-life-and-range-for-electric-cars/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy ScoutMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E233 Jul 24, 2025 45 min

232: Rich Redneck

Bentley has unveiled its first EV, and it’s interesting. Featuring a blocky design, a ho-hum dashboard, a dog seat, and the ability to tailgate, we’re not sure who the target audience is for this one. Maybe rich rednecks? Also on this week’s podcast, VW halts ID. Buzz imports, Tesla enters India, Lucid unseats Tesla, 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 NOTESBentley shows off its EXP 15 EV concept: https://www.topgear.com/car-news/first-look/electric-three-door-exp-15-a-dog-bed-future-bentley-unless-you-hate-it Exports of ID. Buzz to U.S. halted because tariffs: https://www.theautopian.com/wtf-is-going-on-with-the-volkswagen-id-buzz/ Tesla finally officially in India: https://insideevs.com/news/765873/tesla-india-model-y-price/ Lucid Air out-sells Tesla Model S in latest quarterly results: https://electrek.co/2025/07/14/lucid-air-tops-tesla-for-best-selling-luxury-ev-sedan-in-the-us/ Ioniq 6 N is finally here: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a65365358/2026-hyundai-ioniq-6-n-revealed/ Mercedes-Benz unveils CLA shooting brake: https://www.motor1.com/news/765814/2026-mercedes-cla-shooting-brake/ GM will build LFP battery packs in Tennessee in conjunction with LG Energy Solution: https://techcrunch.com/2025/07/14/gm-to-challenge-chinas-lfp-monopoly-with-upgraded-battery-factory/ Panasonic opens claimed “world’s largest” battery cell plant in Kansas: https://insideevs.com/news/765796/panasonic-worlds-largest-battery-plant-tesla-kansas/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy BentleyMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E232 Jul 17, 2025 47 min

231: Tank Turn is Back!

For good and bad, Rivian’s in the news. From the return of Tank Turn to falling sales numbers and additional investments, Rivian’s on a rollercoaster of an adventure right now. Also in the news, Tesla builds another “world’s largest” supercharger, and this one’s off grid. Plus, Honda backtracks, 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 World’s largest Supercharger will be (at least partially) off-grid: https://insideevs.com/news/764997/worlds-largest-tesla-supercharger-project-oasis/ Tesla prototypes send the fanboys into a frenzy: https://electrek.co/2025/07/04/tesla-prototype-sparks-speculation-a-model-y-maybe-slightly-smaller/ Tesla forced to reimburse FSD cost to a Washington Tesla owner: https://share.google/kne4ito2OCgRuFxI8 Honda’s planned “Project 0” large SUV reportedly delayed due to market conditions and “political factors”: https://www.electrive.com/2025/07/07/honda-reportedly-halts-plans-for-large-electric-suv/ Rivian Q2 not so hot: https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/rivian-reports-22-fall-quarterly-deliveries-tariffs-hit-demand-2025-07-02/ Rivian gets another $1 billion from VW: https://techcrunch.com/2025/07/02/rivian-receives-the-next-1b-from-volkswagen-as-sales-struggles-continue/ Rivian finally brings Tank Turn to market: https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a65252188/2026-rivian-r1t-r1s-quad-motor-drive/ Hagerty’s EV vs ICE video is a great physics lesson: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=di68seGJHTU 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

S1E231 Jul 10, 2025 44 min

230: Under Optimal Conditions

Under optimal conditions, anything can happen. The Xiaomi SU7 Ultra Prototype can smash a Nürburgring record, the Escalade IQ can go more than 600 miles on a charge, and Tesla can deliver a car autonomously. This week’s podcast covers those, plus Toyota knocking Tesla down a rung, 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 RAV4 knocks Model Y off the global sales leader board: https://www.carexpert.com.au/car-news/toyota-rav4-topples-tesla-model-y-as-worlds-best-selling-car Xiaomi SU7 Ultra tops its own Nürburgring record: https://insideevs.com/news/763959/xiaomi-su7-prototype-ring-record-broken/ Mercedes unveils AMG GT XX prototype, said to preview production EV model aimed at Porsche Taycan: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a65182945/mercedes-amg-gt-xx-concept-revealed/ Xiaomi YU7 receives 240,000 orders in first 18 hours on sale: https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/shares-chinas-xiaomi-surge-after-launch-electric-vehicle-yu7-2025-06-27/ Tesla claims first autonomous customer delivery: https://www.engadget.com/transportation/tesla-shows-off-its-first-fully-autonomous-delivery-to-convince-us-its-self-driving-cars-work-163805707.html Cadillac delivers Celestiq VIN 001: https://www.thedrive.com/news/the-340000-cadillac-celestiq-is-officially-out-in-the-wild Tom Molougney range test on the Escalade IQ at 60 mph: https://youtu.be/HTOB_AwzpxI?si=fz39nenf7TSjliAE This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy XiaomiMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E230 Jul 03, 2025 36 min

229: Oh Crap Button

Tesla finally made a deadline! Or did it? Yes, autonomous Teslas are driving around Austin by the date promised, but with safety passengers riding shotgun ready to hit the “oh crap” button and back-seat passengers being invite only, is this the future we were promised? In other news, Toyota plans for multiple three-row EV SUVs, the Escalade IQ goes the extra mile, 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 Robotaxi service “officially” launches in Austin, initially available on an invite-only basis: https://www.teslarati.com/tesla-officially-launches-robotaxi-service-with-no-driver/ Toyota reportedly planning two three-row EV SUVs for North American market: https://electrek.co/2025/06/24/toyota-tweaks-ev-plans-again-with-two-new-3-row-electric-suvs/ Tom Moloughney tests Escalade IQ. Achieves 482 miles of range: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=icrG3KQwSwE National Electrical Code to require home EVSE installation by professional electricians: https://www.motortrend.com/news/nec-2026-diy-home-ev-charger-install-ban Senate considering dropping C.A.F.E. standard requirement: https://www.autoblog.com/news/us-senate-might-kill-automotive-fuel-economy-rules 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

S1E229 Jun 26, 2025 46 min

228: Mighty Fine Looking Chrysalis

Is the Nissan Leaf the little EV compliance car that could? As Nissan advances to the third (and somewhat handsome) third generation of the car, it’s beginning to look like the Leaf may make it after all. We discuss. We also chat about battery swapping a Tesla, Xiaomi outrunning a Rimic Nevera, 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 NOTESSpecs drop on new Nissan Leaf: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a65075812/2026-nissan-leaf-revealed/ Out-of-Spec swaps a 100 kWh battery into a Model S 70D: https://insideevs.com/news/762998/tesla-model-s-70d-battery-upgrade-100d/ Tesla preparing for European sales for the Semi: https://electrek.co/2025/06/17/tesla-start-selling-semi-electric-truck-europe/ Corvette ZR1X hybrid: https://www.thedrive.com/news/zora-is-here-chevy-corvette-zr1x-makes-1250-hp-goes-0-60-under-2-seconds Xiaomi SU7 Ultra beats Rimac Nevera’s Nurburgring lap time. https://www.theautopian.com/xiaomi-su7-ultra-nurburgring/ How reliable are Chinese EVs?: https://insideevs.com/news/761870/byd-dolphin-long-term-brazil/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy NissanMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E228 Jun 19, 2025 43 min

227: Cadillac Got Its Groove Back

With new electric vehicles that perform as well as they look, Cadillac is back! The Optiq-V is the next vehicle in the lineup, and based on what we’re seeing, it’s a winner. There’s more to the story with Caddy and GM, though, and we get into that in the podcast. We also discuss autonomous Teslas in Austin, BYD suing influencers, 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 NOTESCadillac launches 519 hp Optiq-V SUV: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a64992634/2026-cadillac-optiq-v-specs-revealed/ GM now #2 in EV sales in U.S.: https://electrek.co/2025/06/10/chevy-equinox-ev-selling-like-hotcakes/ Driverless Model Y robotaxis seen around Austin ahead of expected June 12 “official” announcement: https://www.teslarati.com/tesla-driverless-robotaxi-austin-tx-first-look/ BYD takes influencers to court, claiming defamation: https://insideevs.com/news/761962/byd-takes-influencers-to-court/ BMW announces production of iX5, iX6 and iX7 by 2028 in Spartanburg, SC: https://www.wardsauto.com/industry/bmw-spartanburg-plant-to-launch-ix5-ix6-and-ix7-by-2028 Pics of second-gen Rivian R1T Quad Motor leak: https://insideevs.com/news/762158/rivian-r1t-quad-nacs-port/ Stellantis’ design chief Ralph Gilles says they’re going to “experiment” with Chrysler: https://www.thedrive.com/news/chrysler-is-about-to-become-an-experiment This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy CadillacMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E227 Jun 12, 2025 43 min

226: Honking Waymos

Waymo’s in the news, for honking a lot…again. Same honks, different city. We discuss the many questions surrounding this phenomenon. Also on this week’s podcast, New Jersey boots Tesla Superchargers from the turnpike, Dodge experiences unintended acceleration, VinFast closes stores, 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 NOTESNew Jersey Turnpike Authority cancels contract with Tesla, decommissions 64 Supercharger stalls: https://insideevs.com/news/761428/tesla-superchargers-removed-from-new-jersey-turnpike/ Waymos are honking again: https://yovenice.com/2025/06/02/waymo-faces-escalating-tensions-in-santa-monica-over-noise-complaints-report/ Dodge’s unintended acceleration: https://www.motor1.com/news/761547/dodge-charger-daytona-unintended-acceleration/ VinFast closing half of its stores in Canada: https://driving.ca/auto-news/industry/vinfast-closing-five-stores-canada Mate Rimac says turbos don’t make sense on hybrids: https://www.motor1.com/news/761384/bugatti-boss-criticizes-hybrid-supercars/ Mate Rimac’s daily driver: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKK_EM_MmVu/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ== This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy WaymoMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E226 Jun 05, 2025 43 min

225: My Spidey Senses

Afeela is pushing hard, but when it comes to this Honda-Sony collaboration our Spidey Senses are tingling. Also on this week’s podcast, congress tackles California’s authority, GM plans to bring LFP manufacturing to America (or does it?), Stellantis gets a new head, Tesla goes down in flames (or does it?), 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 NOTESCongress attempts to overturn California’s emissions waiver: https://calmatters.org/environment/2025/05/california-electric-car-mandate-senate-revoke-waiver/ UK government looks at dropping the “Tesla Tax” in a bid to boost EV demand: https://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/electriccars/article-14739945/Government-dump-Tesla-Tax-new-electric-cars-introduced-April-industry-warns-stifling-EV-demand.html GM bringing LFP battery production to U.S. in collaboration Samsung and LG Energy Solution: https://insideevs.com/news/760990/general-motors-bringing-lfp-battery-production-to-america/ Stellantis names 25-year company veteran Antonio Filosa as CEO: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/05/28/auto-stellantis-appoints-north-america-boss-antonio-filosa-as-new-ceo.html Tesla going down in flames? Not so fast: https://cleantechnica.com/2025/05/23/tesla-model-y-model-3-still-1st-3rd-best-selling-cars-in-california/ DeLorean gets into crypto: https://carbuzz.com/electric-vehicles-delorean-alpha5-complicated-reservation-process-live/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy AfeelaMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E225 May 29, 2025 40 min

224: A Rose by Any Other Name

Have automakers been naming their EVs incorrectly all these years? By dropping the “ID” and swapping to its traditional naming conventions, VW seems to think so. Do we agree? We discuss. Also, VW’s upcoming electric GTI will retain its front-drive motivation, Trump’s administration looks to cut EV tax credits, GM flip-flops again, 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 NOTESFuture VW EVs will have “normal” names: https://www.carscoops.com/2025/05/no-more-ids-vws-evs-will-get-real-names/ EV VW GTI will remain front-wheel-drive: https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/volkswagen/golf/366808/confirmed-new-vw-golf-gti-will-be-electric-and-its-monster Toyota RAV4 goes all-hybrid for 2026: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a64704544/2026-toyota-rav4-revealed/ Trump’s bill has EV tax credits in its crosshairs: https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/cars/2025/05/19/trump-big-beautiful-bill-electric-vehicle-tax-credit/83673329007/ GM changes its tune on California’s EV mandate: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/general-motors-company-gm-reportedly-012533059.html Xiaomi to unveil YU7 SUV to accompany SU7 sedan: https://electrek.co/2025/05/19/xiaomi-launch-new-yu7-game-changing-suv/ CATL is 2025’s biggest IPO at $4.6 billion: https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/chinas-catl-shares-set-jump-125-hong-kong-trading-debut-2025-05-20/ Waffle House getting DC fast chargers courtesy of BP Pulse: https://insideevs.com/news/760076/waffle-house-bp-pulse/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode art courtesy VolkswagenMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/storeYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar

S1E224 May 22, 2025 44 min