AI Auto Podcast

S7E14 – Behind the Wheel of History: Driving the 1886 Benz Patent Motor Car

Recorded at Moda Miami 2026, this episode captures a once-in-a-lifetime moment: driving the 1886 Benz Patent Motor Car, widely regarded as the first automobile ever built. I’m joined by Marcus Breitschwerdt, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Heritage, for an in-depth conversation on how Mercedes-Benz safeguards its origins and keeps automotive history alive for future generations. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mar 02, 2026 17 min 27 annotations

S7E13 — Inside Mazda’s Strategy: How the 2026 CX-5 Reinvents Their Best-Seller

From Encinitas, California, we explore the fully updated 2026 Mazda CX-5 and why Mazda sees it as the cornerstone of its global strategy. With more interior space, improved practicality, and a long-overdue Google-powered infotainment system, the CX-5 finally steps confidently into the 21st century. We discuss what’s new—and why it matters. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Feb 27, 2026 13 min 9 annotations

S7E12 - Jeep Reset Explained: Inside the Strategy with Mauricio López Ramos

In this episode we test drive the 2026 Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee and sit down with Mauricio López Ramos, Global VP of Sales Operations at Jeep, who explains Jeep Reset—a back-to-basics strategy focused on discipline, leadership, and long-term brand value—and why strong leadership is critical for Jeep’s future in global markets, including Mexico. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Feb 25, 2026 15 min 32 annotations

S7E11 - Have you ever made an engineer cry from pure emotion during an interview? I didn't think so!

AI Auto Podcast S7E11 - In this captivating episode, Mazda´s Engineer Matthew Valbuena shares the story about how his deaf father, Francisco René Valbuena, taught him that true music isn't just heard, but deeply felt through vibration and emotion. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Feb 20, 2026 19 min 9 annotations

S7E10 | Why Toyota Accelerating its EV Strategy now? What Do They Know That Others Don’t?

In this episode, we’re on location in Ojai, where Toyota unveiled its expanding electric vehicle roadmap. We get a first look at the upcoming 2027 Highlander EV, then hit the road to test-drive two key models shaping Toyota’s EV push: the 2026 bZ Woodland, an off-road–focused evolution of the original bZ, and the 2026 C-HR, which returns to the U.S. market as a fully electric compact SUV. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Feb 18, 2026 18 min 28 annotations

S7E9 – How to Win an Automotive Engineering or Journalism Scholarship?

In this episode, we break down a new $100,000 educational initiative from the North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year (NACTOY) in partnership with the SAE Foundation to fund the SAE–NACTOY Automotive Journalism, Design, and Engineering Innovation Scholarships, launching in the 2026–27 academic year. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Feb 13, 2026 17 min 3 annotations

S7E8 – Why the gas-powered 2026 Audi A6 Still Matters in Audi’s EVEra

Recorded in Palm Springs, California, this episode features Anthony Garbis, Sr. Manager of Product Planning at Audi of America, as we test drive the 2026 Audi A6, a gas-powered luxury sedan which remains a key model for Audi, even as the brand accelerates toward electrification. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Feb 10, 2026 16 min 29 annotations

S7E8 — Formula E Insights and the Story Behind Nissan’s No. 23

From the paddock at the 2026 Miami E-Prix, we sit down with Nissan Formula E drivers Oliver Rowland and Norman Nato. The conversation covers the unique demands of Formula E racing and the origins of Nissan’s legendary No. 23, a number deeply rooted in the brand’s motorsports identity. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Feb 06, 2026 15 min 25 annotations

S7E7 — Nissan CEO Ivan Espinosa on Defending Against Chinese EV Competition and the Future of the Leaf

This episode features a roundtable with Nissan CEO Ivan Espinosa and World Car of the Year jury members. We explore Nissan’s response to intensifying Chinese EV competition and examine the strategic importance of the 2026 Nissan Leaf as a key model in the brand’s roadmap toward renewed profitability and global relevance. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Feb 04, 2026 23 min 28 annotations

S7E6: Nissan, AI, and the Future of Automotive Marketing

Recorded during the Formula E Miami e-Prix 2026, this episode features a conversation with Allyson Witherspoon, CMO of Nissan USA. We explore how Nissan is combining global motorsport events with AI-driven marketing tools to evolve brand storytelling, fan engagement, and digital strategy. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Feb 02, 2026 20 min 17 annotations

S7-5: Formula E Miami 2026 with Tommaso Volpe, Managing Director, Nissan Formula-e Team

In this episode we go trackside at the Formula E Miami e-Prix 2026 for an in-depth conversation with Tommaso Volpe, Managing Director of the Nissan Formula-e Team, who breaks down the technological and competitive evolution of Formula-e, the strategic pillars behind Nissan’s success, and the innovations shaping electric motorsport. He also reflects on Nissan’s championship-winning momentum following the 2024–2025 season, and what it means for the future of high-performance electric racing. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jan 30, 2026 21 min 22 annotations

S7E4: Why every driver should attend the Bridgestone Winter Driving School at least once

In this episode, we sit down with Kurt Spitzner, Operations Manager at the Bridgestone Winter Driving School in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, and Todd Chapman, Sr. Manager of Product Strategy at Bridgestone Americas, who share expert insights on mastering winter driving—from essential techniques for handling ice and snow to why choosing the right winter tires, like Bridgestone's renowned Blizzak line, can make all the difference in safety and performance. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jan 23, 2026 15 min 10 annotations

S7E3: Inside the Red Bull Ford 2026 F1 Power Unit – Exclusive Insights from the Engineers

In this special episode, we go behind the scenes of one of Formula 1's most ambitious projects: the Red Bull Ford Power Unit for the 2026 season.Join us for exclusive interviews with Ford Performance's Powertrain Chief Engineer Christian Hertrich and Red Bull Powertrains' Powertrain Operations Director Phil Prew. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jan 16, 2026 17 min 22 annotations

AI Auto Podcast S7E2: Tim Kuniskis on RAM’s V8 Revival and the 2026 NACTOY Awards at the Detroit Auto Show

Recorded at the Detroit Auto Show, this episode features Tim Kuniskis, CEO of RAM Trucks, discussing his return to the brand and the strategic decision to revive the iconic V8 HEMI. We also cover RAM’s strong momentum heading into 2026, including the RAM 1500’s finalist run for NACTOY Truck of the Year, and break down the 2026 NACTOY winners announced at the show. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jan 14, 2026 14 min 31 annotations

S7E01: 2025 US Auto Sales Winners & Losers + Bold 2026 Predictions

In this season premiere, powered by SuperGrok — the advanced AI from xAI — we break down the final 2025 US auto sales results and dive into the biggest news from CES 2026 in Las Vegas: Hyundai Motor Group's groundbreaking AI Robotics Strategy, unveiled in partnership with Boston Dynamics. Highlights include the debut of the production-ready next-generation Atlas humanoid robot, live demos, and plans for factory deployment starting in 2028 — signaling a new era of human-centered robotics in manufacturing and mobility. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jan 07, 2026 15 min 42 annotations

S6E83 – 2025 Auto Year in Review: Tariffs, Chinese EVs, BYD Dominance & Real Consumer Impacts – AI SuperGrok Speaks

In this season finale year-end special of the AI Auto Podcast, host Javier Mota sits down with X SuperGrok — an advanced AI built by xAI — for a no-holds-barred, AI-powered recap of the dramatic 2025 automotive landscape and a bold look ahead to 2026. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dec 31, 2025 15 min 46 annotations

S6E82 Where Automotive Journalists Go to Retire: What about Galicia, España?

In this episode, we hit the road with automotive journalist Jeff Zurschmeide as he discusses his retirement plans in Galicia, Spain. Jeff offers practical insights into why this region stands out as an affordable, enjoyable, and culturally rich destination for life after a career in automotive journalism. From cost of living to quality of life, this conversation is valuable for anyone considering where—and how—to spend their post-career years. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dec 22, 2025 16 min 1 annotation

S6E81 Operation Frodo 2025: One Mission, 20 Rescue Dogs, and a nationwide volunteer effort

In this episode we follow the 2025 Operation Frodo dog rescue mission from Omaha´s Basset and Beagle Rescue of the Heartland all the way to the Asher House in Salem, Oregon, saving the lives of 20 dogs with the help of an army of volunteers and support from Kia, Toyota, Ineos, Subaru, Volkswagen and Chrysler. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dec 18, 2025 16 min 2 annotations

S6E - Porsche Latin America Celebrates 25 Years of Growth and Innovation

In this episode we visit the Porsche Experience Center in Atlanta to mark the 25th anniversary of Porsche Latin America. The conversation features Rodrigo Fonseca, Lead for Product, Pricing, and Strategy Planning at Porsche Latin America, who reflects on the brand’s first quarter-century in the region and the strategic milestones that shaped its growth. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dec 15, 2025 16 min 20 annotations

S6E80 — Inside Polestar’s Vision: Why an all-electric future is inevitable

In this episode, we visit Polestar’s new EV showroom in Miami to talk with Rick Bryant, Head of Polestar North America, just moments after delivering the first Polestar 4 sold in the U.S. Bryant explains why Polestar is fully confident that the future of mobility will be 100% electric, and how the brand is positioning itself for that transition. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dec 11, 2025 14 min 6 annotations

S6E79 - Why the 2026 Honda Prelude will win the NACTOY Car of the Year Award

In this episode, we’re in Redondo Beach, California for a conversation with Jonathan Yu, Product Planner for the upcoming 2026 Honda Prelude. With buzz growing across the industry, the new Prelude has quickly emerged as a leading contender for the prestigious NACTOY Car of the Year Award—ahead of rivals like the Nissan Sentra and the Dodge Charger Six Pack. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dec 08, 2025 16 min 39 annotations

S6-E78 – Driving the 1986 Acura Integra: The car that started it all

In this episode we’re in Redondo Beach, California with Acura for an exclusive first drive of the 2026 Integra. Before hitting the road, we sit down with Carl Pulley, curator of the American Honda Collection Hall, to revisit the car that launched the brand’s luxury legacy nearly 40 years ago—the original 1986 Acura Integra. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dec 04, 2025 20 min 16 annotations

S6E77 – Kindred Motorworks: Restoring Classics, Reimagining the Future

In this episode, recorded live at the LA Auto Show, we sit down with Rob Howard, CEO of Kindred Motorworks. He shares how his company is revolutionizing classic car restoration by integrating modern technology, delivering vehicles that are not only true to their heritage but better than when they first rolled off the line. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nov 25, 2025 16 min 15 annotations

S6E75 — Why the 2027 Kia Telluride Is poised to dominate the SUV of the Year Awards

Live from the Los Angeles Auto Show, we dive into the world debut of the all-new 2027 Kia Telluride — the second generation of the brand’s flagship SUV. Already a benchmark in its segment, the Telluride returns with bold updates, advanced tech, and improved performance that position it as a frontrunner for every major SUV of the Year award once again. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nov 20, 2025 16 min 21 annotations

S6E75 – How Does the Rest of the World View the U.S. Automotive Strategy?

In this episode, we’re at the World Car of the Year annual test-drive program in Pasadena, speaking with jurors from across the globe. We ask how international experts perceive current U.S. government policies shaping the automotive industry, and whether the U.S. can realistically close the gap with China in the race for electric and emerging mobility technologies. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Nov 19, 2025 29 min 27 annotations