Wheel Bearings

Scouting Mission Oct 27, 2024

Hey everyone, we're back with a standard episode this week. Unfortunately a family emergency came up at the last moment and Robbie couldn't join us. Fortunately, our friend Perry Stern was able to step in and join Nicole and Sam. Perry was driving around in the new Subaru Forester while Nicole had the Hyundai Sonata Hybrid and Sam had the Kia Sorento Hybrid.

It was good to have Perry on the show, because he was the only one among the group that was able to attend the reveal event of the new Scout Terra and Traveler which are due to arrive in 2027. Stellantis has started assembly of battery modules at its new factory in Windsor, Ontario, and plans to try out semi-solid state batteries in 2027. They have also updated their Auburn Hills wind tunnel and are planning to sell their Arizona proving ground. Ford has cut prices on its F-150 Lightning Pro and Mach-E for 2025. Costco has installed its first DC fast charging station and Nicole shares some highlights from this week's semi-finalist drive for North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year.

Links

Scout Terra and Traveller

Stellantis to try semi-solid state cells in 2027 Charger

NextStar Energy Starts Battery Module Production

Ford Pro Cuts EV prices

High speed trains are awesome

2025 Mach-E gets price cut, GT look

Stellantis updates wind tunnel/Proving ground sale

Coscto gets in to fast charging

NACTOY Drive

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Where's The Plug? Oct 20, 2024

Hey everyone, this week's show is a bit different. Sam is on his way to South Korea for the week, Nicole is visiting her daughter in Wisconsin and Robbie is Lake Tahoe for a gig with one of his bands. But rather than leave you with no content, we've got some material from the Nissan Fast Forward event that Sam attended in Nashville this week. Nissan unveiled the new 2025 Murano and Sam has some thoughts and then we have presentations from 4 Nissan executives including chief product officer for North America, Ponz Pandikuthira, VP of sales and marketing Vinay Shahani, VP of aftersales Kim Less and SVP manufacturing David Johnson. Lots of interesting stuff in here about where Nissan is going for the rest of the decade including plug-in hybrids, e-Power, and extended range EVs. We'll back with a regular episode next week.

Links

The 2025 Nissan Murano

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AI Stock Boondoggle Oct 14, 2024

Nicole is back and she drove the Honda Prologue while Robbie spent more time with the GMC Hummer EV SUV and Sam had the VW GTi.

Links

2025 Jeep Compass

2025 Bronco Free Wheeling

2025 Chevy Silverado EV Updates

Carlos Tavares to retire in early 2026

Stellantis EV price parity

More cheap EU EVs

Fisker reaches bankruptcy deal

https://carbuzz.com/fisker-faces-new-government-probe/

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What Is All-New? Oct 06, 2024

Nicole's Saturday morning flight home from Venice was cancelled so she'll be back next week. In the meantime, Chad Kirchner joins us to talk about what's going on. Robbie has been driving the GMC Hummer EV SUV and Sam had the Mazda CX-70 and a weekend with the Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato.

In the news, Mazda has launched a new electric sedan in China that goes for just under $23,000 but we can't have it. Lots of charging news this week with Enel X Way shutting down it's US operations, but Ford is offering EV buyers free chargers and installation. Ionna has started construction on its first charging station with just 29,990 chargers to go. Ford had cut pricing on BlueCruise and launched a somewhat-new Expedition. Our pals at TFL finally got FSD Supervised on their Cybertruck and Toyota pushed back the launch of their 3-row electric SUV by 6 months. Rivian cut its 2024 production forecast but an R1T survived the Hurricane Helene flooding with flying colors.

Speaking of the hurricane, if you have a few extra dollars, send some to Feeding America for TacoTober to help out those affected by the disaster. Also check out The Kirchner Report and buy a copy of Racecar by the Drastic Cats

Links

Mazda EZ-6

Ford Home charging

Enel X Way shuts down

Ionna breaks ground on first rechargery

Ford cuts BlueCruise pricing

TFL tries FSD on their Cybertruck

2025 Ford Expedition

Toyota delays 3-row EV

Rivian cuts production forecast

Rivian R1T survives Helene

Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato

Chargelab

Drastic Cats - Racecar

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Simulated Engagement Sep 29, 2024

Nicole is still riding the rails in Europe so Stephanie Brinley joins Robbie and Sam again. Stephanie has been driving the 2025 Lincoln Aviator and the Toyota Crown Signia. Robbie got to try out the new electric motorcycles from Can Am and Sam got some quality time with the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.

Sam also got to sample the new 2025 Nissan Kicks which is bigger, more powerful and more expensive than the original. Ontario premier Doug Ford has a crazy scheme to build a 34 mile tunnel under Toronto to fix congestion on highway 401 and it probably won't work. Stellantis has begun the search for a successor to CEO Carlos Tavares while Jeep and VW are planning to add hybrids to their North American lineups. Honda is developing a new hybrid Prelude coupe and there are reports it could be offered with a manual transmission. Finally, ACMI has tested Tesla FSD and it was to say the least, problematic.

Links

Can-Am Origin / Pulse

2025 Nissan Kicks

34 mile tunnel to fix Toronto traffic, or not

Stellantis searching for new CEO

Jeep looking at adding hybrids to lineup

VW likely to add hybrids to US within 2 years

Audi prices US Q6 e-tron, adds RWD model

The New Hybrid Honda Prelude Could Have a Manual

ACMI Tests FSD, It's Not Good

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ADAS Distractions Sep 23, 2024

As Nicole and her spouse are riding the rails in Europe, Tanya Gazdik is back with the Land Rover Defender 130 and the Mercedes-AMG SL63. Sam has thoughts about Ineos Grenadier and Robbie has something he can't discuss until next week.

Tanya and Sam drove the Polestar 3 this week and share their first impressions. Elektrobit's Dr. Mortiz Neukirchner has developed a taxonomy for software defined vehicles. More vehicles are getting in-cabin radar sensors to make sure no one is left behind. The IIHS says ADAS is leading to driver complacency. Maserati needs marketing help and Waymo may be turning to Hyundai for its next robotaxi.

Links

Software defined vehicle levels

In-cabin radar for rear seat detection

IIHS study says drivers more distracted using ADAS

IIHS ADAS safety ratings

Polestar 3 first drive

Maserati Marketing, does it exist?

Waymo and Hyundai may collaborate on robotaxis

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Touchscreen Vents Are Stupid Sep 15, 2024

This week, Nicole has been driving the 2024 Lincoln Nautilus hybrid and Sam has the Toyota Highlander XSE 2.4T.

Lucid held a technology day this week where they announced that the Gravity SUV will go into production in the 4th quarter complete with a J3400 charging port and a $50,000 midsize model is coming by 2026. Nicole tells us all about Heels and Wheels. At the 2024 Mobility Experience, Bosch demoed is new ABS for e-bikes, proactive vehicle dynamics control, steer by wire and more. Nuro is pivoting away from automated delivery bots and Ford wants to listen in to what is happening in your car to serve you ads on the road. NHTSA is finally starting to move toward some pedestrian protection standards. Magna has a new inner door carrier made from sustainable plant based fibers and polymers and GM and Hyundai want to partner up to save money on next-generation vehicles.

Links

Lucid updates

Ford Eavesdropping Patent

NHTSA finally proposes pedestrian protection

Bosch e-Bike ABS

Nuro pivots from delivery bots to licensing software

Bosch mobility experience

Magna Sustainable door carrier

GM-Hyundai deal

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Get Your Recalls Fixed Sep 10, 2024

This week we drive the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe and Volvo C40 Recharge. Sam also shares thoughts on the refreshed 2025 Hyundai Tucson and the Santa Fe hybrid.

We also have an interview with Michael Fischer, Project lead for the Honda EV Hub in Ohio

Links

2025 Nissan Armada

VW ID.4 Gets ChatGPT

Top 10 Cars for Gen Z

Mazda S or Model 6

2025 Volvo XC90

Drunk Philidelphia Women Charged with Homicide While Using BlueCruise

Defence attorney blames BlueCruise

28th Takata airbag death in US

Cox Battery operations center

AAA driving cost survey

https://newsroom.aaa.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/YDC-Brochure-FINAL-9.2024.pdf

Honda EV hub

BYD Shark

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Hyundai Is Busy Sep 03, 2024

Robbie is sick this week and his voice is shot, so it's just Sam and Nicole. Nicole has been driving the Subaru Ascent while Sam had the Lexus RX450h+ plug-in hybrid.

Hyundai made lots of news this week at its investor day as well as during a drive program in California. Its new 3-row electric crossover, the Ioniq 9 will launch production in 2025 at the new Savannah, GA factory and in 2026, Hyundai will launch an extended range EV (EREV). But before the Ioniq 9 arrives, Hyundai will be producing the Ioniq 5 at the new factory beginning in October. Along with a mild styling refresh and bigger batteries, the Ioniq 5 is getting an SAE J3400/NACS charging port. 3 weeks after the regular Ioniq 5, Hyundai will start production of the Ioniq 5 XRT for those that can't wait for the Rivian R3. Hyundai will also build a limited production version of the N Vision 74 concept.

Sam and Nicole both drove the new Volvo EX90 electric 3-row SUV (everyone else is building 3-row EVs, why can't Ford?). Nicole also got to drive the new gas fueled Chevy Equinox. Walter Chrysler's great grandson is offering to buy the Chrysler and Dodge brands from Stellantis and we have interviews with Luminar CEO Austin Russell and Volvo's Thomas Broberg.

Links

Hyundai to Build Ioniq 9 in US, offer EREVs

Hyundai investor day

Sam's Volvo EX90 first drive

Nicole's Volvo EX90 review

2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5

2025 Chevrolet Equinox

Hyundai N Vision 74 production

Walter Chrysler descendant wants to buy Chrysler and Dodge

Volvo Interview Gary Kalsaria

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Volvo's Mikael Ljung Aust on Driver Understanding Sep 01, 2024

Sam speaks with Volvo senior technical leader about the driver understanding system in the new EX90

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Losing the Buzz Aug 27, 2024

Robbie is back from Germany where he got to drive the updated Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo and he wants one. Nicole got to drive a pair of new Hyundai Santa Fes at home and at a family wedding. Meanwhile, Sam got surprisingly good efficiency from the latest edition of the VW ID4 but those window switches are still dumb.

In the news, the US market version of the VW ID Buzz finally has a price and let's just say affordability isn't part of the formula. Ford has again pivoted on its electric vehicle plans and there won't be anything fresh in showrooms for a few more years. GM is bringing some plug-in hybrid powertrains to its US lineup, but the new Equinox won't be home to this system. Ford has updated the Bronco Sport for 2025 with some cool new lifestyle features. Tesla has been purging old claims about Autopilot and Full Self-Driving but the internet never forgets and Robbie visited Electrify Expo and you can too.

Links

VW ID Buzz pricing and range

Ford backs off on EV plans

Tesla purging FSD claims

Elon's 2016 Autopilot V2 conference call

The purged blog post

Chevrolet won't give us Chinese developed Equinox PHEV

2025 Ford Bronco Sport

Electrify Expo

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Should Have Saved The Name Aug 17, 2024

Our regular lineup is back together, after a delayed arrival from Robbie. Robbie got to spend some time with the new Toyota Prius Prime while spending a couple of days in Detroit. Sam drove the Hyundai Kona Electric and Nicole has been in the latest Subaru Impreza RS and Mazda CX-90 since she last appeared.

This week Sam got to visit the Volvo Cars factory near Charleston, South Carolina where they have just added production of the Polestar 3 in addition to the Volvo EX90. JD Power continues to survey EV drivers about their satisfaction with the public charging experience and while it has ticked upward overall just a but this year, it still has a lot of room for improvement. While traditional auto shows are flagging, Monterey Car Week has become the place to launch premium and expensive machines and wild concepts. We discuss the Cadillac Opulent Velocity and Acura Performance EV concepts and the production 2025 Lincoln Navigator. In China, GM like most other non-Chinese brands is struggling against surging domestic competitors. One of those competitors is Zeekr which has launched a new battery capable of some impressive charging speeds.

Links

Volvo/Polestar factory visit

Charging satisfaction improves - a bit

Cadillac Opulent Velocity concept

2025 Lincoln Navigator

GM China Layoffs

New fast charging Zeekr LFP battery

Acura Performance EV concept

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No Fancy Brunch Aug 12, 2024

While Nicole is off enjoying a fancy brunch with friends visiting from out of town, Robbie and Sam are again joined by Stephanie Brinley. Robbie has been driving the Ford Ranger Raptor while Steph spent time with the latest Honda Civic Hybrid and Genesis G70. Sam spent the week with the Kia EV6 GT-Line.

In the news, Fiat is now integrating charging cables into the nose of EVs. Chargepoint showed off its solution for handling EVs with CCS or J3400/NACS charging ports, the new Omni Port and Robbie got to try it out. Dodge announced pricing for its e-muscle car, the Charger Daytona and we got to hear what it sounds like. Tesla has dropped the reservation system for the Cybertruck and deliveries are available almost immediately. Volvo has bumped the pricing for the new EX90 and a bunch of features missing at launch. GMC has a redesigned Terrain for 2025. Finally, Sam had an in-depth conversation with Joerg Grotendorst, SVP of Corporate R&D at Magna International (and no they didn't discuss Fisker).

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Links

Fiat to integrate charging cables

Chargepoint Omni Port

NACS and CCS on one cable

2025 GMC Terrain

2025 Dodge Charger Daytona pricing

No more Tesla Cybertruck reservations, Canada/Mexico now open

Volvo EX90 price bumped by $3300, features missing

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Declining Value Proposition Aug 04, 2024

Nicole is on the road this week so we have Perry Stern joining us a guest. Over the past couple of weeks Perry has been driving the Porsche 718 Boxster and the new 2025 Toyota Camry which now comes exclusively with hybrid power. Robbie took a road trip in the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Sam had the Honda Ridgeline Trailsport before his vacation and then the Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+ SUV to drive around northern California.

In the news Ford has done a mid-cycle update of the Maverick and finally has an all-wheel-drive hybrid available but the price has climbed by an average of $2,400, still modest by current truck price standards, but no longer the screaming deal it was just two years ago. Audi has launched a new electric only A6 and once popular brands Recaro and BBS have both filed for bankruptcy protection. A Tesla owner using "full-self-driving" mode has killed a motorcyclist in Seattle and Ford is offering a torque upgrade for the Mach-E GT as an OTA update. Ineos has decided to scrap plans to expand its lineup and focus on higher-marging bespoke models instead. Toyota is adding an automatic transmission option to the GR Corolla for those that want to focus on handling instead of shifting. ElectraMeccanica went bust with its single-seat Solo EV and now all of them are set to be crushed. Perry took the states with Mini and we answer listener questions.

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Links

2025 Ford Maverick, value evaporating

Audi A6 e-tron

BBS and Recaro circling the drain

Seatle motorcyclist killed by Tesla FSD

Mach-e gets an OTA performance update

Ineos to focus on margins over volume

GR Corolla gets an automatic

ElectraMeccamica Solos wait to be crushed

MINI Takes the States

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Manila Vanilla, It's Yellow Jul 28, 2024

This week, Sam is enjoying a much-deserved vacation, so we have Jill Ciminillo, managing editor for Pickup Truck + SUV Talk as a special guest. Jill drove the Acura TLX while Robbie had some time with the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio, which he can drive but can’t pronounce. Nicole was in the Toyota bZ4X which she loved, aside from one rather large issue.

In the news, the Cadillac Sollei concept made its debut as a 2-door convertible in a color we all question, but with stunning design details. Rivian opened a COutpost outside Yosemite with free coffee (yes!) and the Honda Civic Si is back with a manual transmission only (yes again!). Acura is ditching Sirius XM, which isn’t’ as big a deal as it seems, but Stellantis may cut underperforming brands from its portfolio, which definitely is a big deal. Volvo is the latest automaker to adjust its EV plans and Toyota issues an engine recall that has them replacing the entire engine in around 100,000 vehicles.

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Links

Cadillac Sollei - 2 door convertible Celestiq concept

Rivian Yosemite charging outpost

Honda Civic Si Returns

Acura ditches in-car SiriusXM app

Stellantis May Cut Brands

Volvo EV Plans May Slow

Toyota Engine Recall

Sam's Corvette ZR-1 deep dive

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Basically A Fast Economy Car Jul 23, 2024

This week, Nicole is driving the refreshed Genesis GV80, Robbie had the Mercedes-Benz EQS sedan and BMW XM and Sam got to play with the Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally.

In the news, Sam spotted Hyundai and Kia testing NACS/J3400 charging ports on an Ioniq 5 and EV6 at a Supercharger. Cadillac is putting a 55-inch screen in the gas Escalade. Honda is working on a new generation Passport that might be more off-road capable. Ford is using its Oakville, Ont. assembly plant to build Super Duty trucks that will get electrified and Nicole and Sam drive the refreshed Explorer. Nicole went to Germany to see the new Audi A5 and Lexus is offering a fancier version of the GR Corolla Morizo, but in Japan only.

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Links

Hyundai/Kia testing J3400 EVs

2025 Cadillac Escalade

2026 Honda Passport

Yandex Self-Driving is now Avride

2025 Ford Explorer

Ford Expanding Super Duty production and electrifying

Lexus LBX Morizo

2025 Audi A5

Audi's Still Doing ICE

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No Real Safety Benefit Jul 14, 2024

This week Sam has been driving the 2024 Ford F-150 Tremor. Nicole had the Mazda CX-70 and Robbie has just started on the Mercedes-Benz EQS

For 2024, Toyota has improved the abysmal charging performance of the AWD bZ4X and Electrify America is piloting an 85% charge limit. Nissan has launched an off-roady-ish Rogue that now has hands-free driving assist. Ford unveils its 2025 Dakar challenger and Mazda is putting a Rav4 hybrid system into the CX-50. Ford has launched a new EV in Europe that looks like the Polestar 2 and bears the name of a 1970s sports coupe. Tesla's market share continues to decline and partial automation systems don't seem to help safety.

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Links

Toyota Improves bZ4X charging

Nissan Rogue Rock Creek

Ford Raptor T1+

EA pilots 85% charging limit

Early automotive navigation

Mazda CX-50 Hybrid

New Ford Capri

Tesla drops to 50% US EV share

Partial Automation doesn't boost safety

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It's An Electric Flex Jul 08, 2024

This week Robbie takes a road trip to southern California in the BMW i7, Nicole gets an unexpectedly eye-catching Ford Bronco Sport and Sam belatedly comes to the realization that the awesome Kia EV9 is basically an electric Ford Flex.

Sam provides a follow-up on the 2025 Ram 1500 and its batteries. GM got a fine from the EPA over excess CO2 emissions and had to give up a bunch of C02 credits. Small car sales are picking up and Jim Farley want's people to buy more of them, even though Ford doesn't actually offer any right now. Land Rover launches a high performance Defender and Ineos indefinitely delays the electric Fusilier. BMW is working on a new coupe based on the electric Neue Klasse platform and the Supreme Court may have made it way harder to introduce any new regulations.

Finally, make sure to listen all the way to the Q&A at the end because we have a special treat question from long-time listener Adam J.

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Links

GM fined for excess CO2 emissions

EPA on GM excess emissions

Are Small Cars Back?

Land Rover Defender Octa

Ineos Fusilier delayed

BMW Neue Klasse Coupe

EV Mandates May Be Next SCOTUS victim

Carbuzz on SCOTUS

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It's About The Style Jul 02, 2024

This week Nicole is driving the Ford Maverick and Sam has the new Fiat 500e

Nicole went to the Busan Motor Show in Korea last week to deliver an award to Kia. While there she got to see the new Kia EV3 and the little Hyundai Casper EV. GM Design has been posting images from the design archives on Instagram including a concept for a second-generation G8 that sadly never made it to production. Cox Automotive gave a mid-year update and EV leasing is growing dramatically. Automakers are pushing back on NHTSA's new automatic emergency braking rules. VW is turning to Rivian to try to solve it's software problems and BMW has a new plug-in hybrid M5. While someone that owns the rights to the Delorean brand has shown an electric concept, a UK company is restomodding original examples. Rimac has shifted from electric supercars to robotaxis with the help of Mobileye. Volvo is also having software issues that have caused a stop sale on the new EX30 in Europe, while tarrifs have delayed the US launch. Sam participated in a Q&A with Jaguar Cars managing director Rawdon Glover to learn about the future of the brand.

Links

The last Pontiac G8 concept

Cox Automotive mid-year update

Automakers push back on AEB rules

VW and Rivian partnership

2025 BMW M5

Actual Electric Delorean

Rimac Robotaxi

Volvo EX30 delayed

Hyundai Casper EV

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1.6 Miles Of Copper Jun 23, 2024

This week in the garage, Nicole has been driving two cars that are basically the same but oh so different, the Buick Envista Avenir and the Porsche Cayenne GTS while Sam tries out some hands-off highway driving in the new 2025 Ram 1500 Limited.

In th news, Lexus should soon be launching a successor to the LFA that will form the basis of its next GT3 race car. Uber and Lyft are adopting the Toyota bZ4X. 15 years ago, we expected to see light duty pickups from Detroit with diesel V8s but they all got cancelled. However, some prototypes of the GM 4.5L Duramax has occasionally popped up. That engine was specifically designed to fit in the suprisingly compact package envelope of the classic GM small block. One of the places that small block V8s occasionally show up is in Miatas, and friend of the show Tommy Mica tries one out.

Fisker has finally filed for bankruptcy and Sam got a look at the Leapmotor C10 from China. Accidental Tech Podcast host Casey Liss had a crazy engine failure in his family's Volvo XC90. Sam has more on the updated Rivian R1 and a 3,600 mile Tesla road trip demonstrates why we need more emphasis on AC charging to make EVs truly mainstream. TFL Truck's Andre Smirnov gets a deep dive on the Ford SuperTruck that is tackling Pikes Peak this week.

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Links

Cayenne GTS

Lexus LFR coming

Toyota bZ4X as NYC Ubers

The Chevrolet 4.5L Duramax V8

Tommy drives a V8 Miata

Fisker files for bankruptcy

Casey's engine goes boom (1:41)

Leapmotor C10

Rivian R1 updates

Another case of why we shouldn't depend on DC fast charging

Andre checks out the Lightning Supertruck

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Do You Need An AI Best Friend? Jun 17, 2024

This week, Nicole has been driving the Genesis GV60 Performance, Robbie spent time with the Ineos Grenadier and Quartermaster and Sam drove the Ford Mustang Dark Horse.

Nicole also went on an electric off-road adventure with the Polaris Ranger EXP in Michigan's Upper Penninsula and drove the new GMC Acadia. Sam went to the Stellantis investor day and got to try out the Peugeot e-3008 and rode in the Maserati Gran Turismo Folgore. Dealers are once again demonstrating why customers hate them by slapping huge markups on the Chevrolet Equinox EV. We also answer listener questions.

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Links

VW ID Buzz Campers

Stellantis investor day

Polaris off-road adventure

Maserati Gran Turismo Folgore

Peugeot e-3008

STLA Brain, Cockpit, Autodrive

GMC Acadia first drive

Don't pay markups for the Chevy Equinox EV

Hamilton's North Coast Adventures

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Plug-in Hybrids Are Or Are Not Fine Jun 08, 2024

Robbie has the updated the Ford Mustang Mach-E with a lithium iron phosphate battery, Nicole has the Hyundai Sonata and Elantra N-Line and Sam has the 2024 Ford Ranger XLT.

Ford is attacking the Pikes Peak Hillclimb with another EV, this time the Lightning Supertruck. Rivian has done its first major update the R1 series with new motors, battery packs and electronics. Nicole spoke with some Fisker employees about the s**tshow in Manhattan Beach. Two three-row, electric SUVs started production in the US, the Kia EV9 and Volvo EX90. IIHS crash tested full-size SUVs and the results were not great. Friend of the show Jonny Lieberman wrote a rant against plug-in hybrids and Robbie made a video about them. Finally, Sam has a conversation with Michigan's chief mobility officer Justine Johnson

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Links

Ford Lightning Supertruck to Pikes Peak

Rivian R1 updates

Fisker Employee Inside Story

Kia EV9 US production

Volvo EX90 start US production

IIHS tests big SUVs

IIHS Crash tests

Jonny is wrong about PHEVs

Understanding Plug-in hybrids

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The Best EV Value Jun 03, 2024

This week Robbie was carless but Nicole has to vehicles to tell us about, the Lexus TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid and the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison. Meanwhile Sam describes his disappointment with the Nissan Z Nismo, at least as a sports car for the street.

We also have a first drive review of the new Chevrolet Equinox EV, which despite GM's claims is most definitely not a compact but it is very good. We have first looks at the production Jeep Wagoneer S and Cadillac Optiq. With all of the safety issues we have on the road, some regulators and politicians have decided to set their sights on a tiny niche of a niche, the Japanese Kei car. For those tired of weeding out all the automatic transmission cars on Bring a Trailer, there is now a manual only auction site. 14 years after racing a hybrid 911, Porsche finally has a production model for 2025. The Geneva Motor Show has been cancelled indefinitely and we answer listener questions.

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Links

Chevrolet Equinox EV first drive

Jeep Wagoneer S

Cadillac Optiq

The war on Kei cars

Manual only auction site

2025 Porsche 911 GTS hybrid

Geneva Motor Show canceled indefinitely

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Too Heavy May 26, 2024

Nicole is traveling again this week so it's just the boys. Robbie had nothing to drive, but Sam hit the road to the MAMA Spring Rally at Road America #MAMA24SR in the Nissan Rogue AWD Platinum.

We have a first drive review of the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV RST First Edition and Sam shares some thoughts on some of the vehicles he drove at the Rally including the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, Kia EV6 GT, Ineos Grenadier, Polaris Slingshot, Volvo EX30, Hummer EV SUV and Mustang Dark Horse. Kia unveiled the new EV3, hopefully coming to America in 2025. Honda showed off the updated Civic, now with hybrid power. Apple wants to make it easier to read a phone in the car without getting sick. California wants automatic speeding warnings and BMW unveils the new Skytop concept.

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Links

2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV RST First Edition

Kia EV3

2025 Honda Civic Hybrid

iOS Tackles motion sickness

California considers speed alert requirement

Polaris Slingshot R

BMW SkyTop concept

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Two Transmissions in One May 21, 2024

This week Nicole had a Chevy Blazer EV that had to go home early and a Hyundai Kona. Robbie drove the Fiat 500e and Sam drove the BMW 530i xDrive.

Despite some recent skepticism because of the Supercharger layoffs at Tesla, EVgo is moving forward with installing J3400 connectors on its DC fast chargers. Rivians run Android Automotive and are getting Google Cast support. Honda provides an EV update. BYD has a plug-in hybrid midsize pickup called the Shark, and Motor Trend disproves Tesla's 911 Cybertruck drag race claims. BMW's Neue Klasse EVs will charge really fast and Nicole has thoughts on a French safety campaign. Dodge boss Tim Kuniskis retires and we answer listener questions.

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Links

EVGo begins NACS deployment

Android Automotive gets Google Cast support starting with Rivian

Honda EV update

BYD Shark

Motor Trend drag races the Cybertruck and 911

BMW Neue Klasse - 186 miles in 10 minutes

France encourages everyone to drive like a woman

Audi/Porsche PPE platform

Tim Kuniskis retires

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A Little Digital Kiss May 13, 2024

Robbie is back from Japan and driving the BMW i5 M60. Nicole jumps from last week's Suburban into the Nissan Altima and Sam had the Cadillac Lyriq with new better door handles and fully functional software.

In the news, will Rivian partner with Apple on something? Infotainment, ADAS? Will the US impose 100% tarrifs on Chinese made EVs? Ford is scaling back orders for EV batteries, but how much are they really losing per electric vehicle? On the combustion side, nearly 1/4 of F-150s are now hybrids. The aftermath of Tesla gutting its charging team is still playing out as other companies scramble to pick up the pieces. Cadillac has a new documentary about its Le Mans racing program and Hyundai steps in to save Motional and its automated driving efforts. Finally ZF had a technology demo day and Sam got to try out some cool stuff.

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Links

Apple and Rivian to partner?

100% Tariffs on Chinese EVs?

Ford Cuts Battery Orders, How Much Are They Really Losing on EVs?

Nearly 1/4 of F-150s now hybrid

It's all about the charging

BP Pulse and Shell interested in Supercharger sites

No Perfect Formula Trailer

Trying to get a speeding ticket in a slow car

ZF Demo Day

Hyundai spending nearly $1B to keep Motional driving

Nissan Altima Review

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The Girl In The Trunk May 05, 2024

As Robbie and his wife celebrate 18 years of marriage with a vacation in Japan, we're joined this week by our friend Jill Ciminillo. Jill shares her thoughts on one of the most affordable new cars still offered for sale in the US, the Nissan Versa SR. Nicole hwas been driving something nearly large enough to hold a Versa inside, the Chevrolet Suburban High Country and Sam has the Infiniti QX55 with its silly dual screen infotainment system.

We also have a first drive review of the new 2024 Chevrolet Traverse and a discussion of why Mercedes-Benz won't be adopting the next-generation Apple Carplay. That rolls into a discussion of GM's decision to drop Carplay support from its EVs. NHTSA is looking into why there were two fatal crashes of vehicles running Ford's hands-free BlueCruise system. Tesla has fired its whole Charging team. By 2029 all new vehicles in the US will need automatic emergency braking systems capable of working at speeds up to 90 mph. The woes for Fisker Ocean owners continue with a lack of parts availability.

Links

2024 Chevrolet Traverse

Mercedes-Benz Won't Let CarPlay Take Over

NHTSA Investigating BlueCruise

Tesla fires supercharger team

AEB up to 90 mph to be mandatory by 2029

Fisker Ocean totalled over a $910 door ding

Fisker cannibalizing prototypes for service parts

Chevy Blazer EV infotainment demo

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Finding The Hidden Charge Port Apr 27, 2024

Nicole is back and she shares her impressions of driving a Lynk&Co 01 that she and her husband rented in France during their vacation. Robbie will have more to share next week about the BMW i5 and Sam has driven the Land Rover Defender 110 and Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray.

In the news, the Ram TRX has been shelved for now, but Ram has a six-cylinder powered version called the RHO. Mercedes-Benz has revealed an all-electric version of the new G-Wagen with four motors. There were several interesting reveals at the 2024 Beijing Motor Show and some of them might make it to North America. The Mini Aceman is all electric, but it doesn't directly replace the discontinued Clubman. The Mazda EZ-6 is a great looking electric sedan that should come to America along with the Buick Electra L and LT. While the design of the Toyota bZ4X is polarizing, the bZ3C and bZ3X are much more appealing. Honda and its partners will invest $11 billion into an EV production ecosystem in Alliston, Ontario and NHTSA has closed one Tesla Autopilot investigation and opened up another.

Links

Lynk & Co 01

2025 Ram 1500 RHO

Tesla Autopilot has caused hundreds of crashes, dozens of fatalities

Mini Aceman

Mazda EZ-6

Toyota BZ3C and BZ3X

Buick Electra L, LT concepts

Honda $11B investment in Canada EV production

Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen EQ

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No Soap Please Apr 21, 2024

Nicole is still cruising European rivers so it's just the boys this week. Robbie drove the Range Rover Sport and used a Ford Transit to get his bands to Salt Lake City for a couple of shows (hence why there was no episode last week). Sam has been driving the Subaru CrossTrek Wilderness.

In the news, VW workers in Tennessee join the UAW, and Mercedes-Benz is voting next. Toyota launches a 6th gen 4Runner. Sam sees the BMW Vision Neue Klasse X in person and talks with Designworks CEO Julia de Bono. Kia is testing the EV3 and it may sticker for under $35,000. GM launches its vehicle to home charging products. Alfa Romeo unveils its first EV as the Milano and almost immediately changes the name. Back in the 1980s, Porsche was developing a Miata competitor before the Mazda launched. Maserati shows off the stunning Gran Cabrio Folgore and Honda is launching a new design language for its Ye EVs in China.

Links

VW Workers in Tennessee Vote for UAW, M-B next?

2025 Toyota 4Runner

BMW Vision Neue Klasse X

Soapy Cybertruck Recall

Kia EV3 may be under $35,000

GM Launches V2H products

Alfa Romeo Launches Milano EV, Quickly Renames it Junior

What if Porsche built a Miata Competitor?

Maserati Gran Cabrio Folgore

Honda Ye EVs for China

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Still Too Much Apr 07, 2024

This week Nicole and her husband compare the 2024 Jeep Wrangler 4XE to their 2022 model that they own. Robbie takes the Kia EV9 on a snowboarding trip and is unimpressed by the new Lincoln Nautilus. Sam drives the 2024 Polestar 2 dual motor performance model.

Nicole shares her impressions of driving the updated Jeep Gladiator in Moab and Hyundai has unveiled a race version of the Ioniq 5 N. Friend of the show Alex Dykes shares his impressions of a Fisker Ocean he rented on Turo. Chevrolet officially prices the Silverado EV RST first edition and cuts the price by $10K from what was originally announced while JerryRigEverything goes 460 miles on a charge. Tesla kills its $25K car to focus on a robotaxi and Ford delays its next EVs by up to 2 years. Our friend Tommy Mica from TFL decides to driving his 1915 Model T in the snow and a listener asks about a Mitsubishi pickup truck in California.

Links

IONIQ 5 N eN1 Cup car

2024 Jeep Gladiator

Alex on Fisker, 12V problems and broken vents

460 Miles in the Silverado EV RST

Chevy Cuts Silverado EV RST price by $10K

Tesla scraps $25K EV

Ford delays next-gen EVs up to 2 years

Driving a Model T in the snow

Mitsubishi Triton

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Faster Than Magma Mar 30, 2024

This week, friend of the show Perry Stern is filling in for Robbie and he's been driving the Mercedes-AMG GLB. Nicole tries out the latest variant of Honda's pickup truck the off-road-ish Ridgeline Trailsport and Sam has the Acura TLX Type-S.

Perry went to the New York for the Auto Show this week and gives us a rundown on what he saw including the new Genesis Neolun concept and the GV60 Magma performance model. Kia also unveiled the new entry level K4 sedan and teased an upcoming hatchback version. Hyundai showed off mid-cycle refreshes for the Tucson and Santa Cruz that look a bit more truckish and bring back the buttons on the center stack. Nissan also unveiled a new version of the Kicks and the Infiniti QX80.

Instead of New York, Nicole went to Moab for the Easter Jeep Safari and got to try out a bunch of cool Jeep concepts. Fisker is inching closer to bankruptcy and BMW has a new Neue Klasse SUV concept. For those concerned about buying used EVs, Cox has a new battery health reporting tool and Chinese phone maker Xiaomi is getting into the EV game with the SU7 sedan.

Links

Fisker almost done

Fisker couldn't track millions in payments

Genesis Neolum and GV60 Magma

2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz

2025 Hyundai Tucson

BMW Vision Neue Klasse X

Jeep Gladiator Mojave in Moab

Cox rolling out battery health reports to Manheim auctions

Xiaomi SU7

Kia K4

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Jumping Raptors Mar 25, 2024

While Robbie is off doing some late winter snow boarding, Nicole and Sam are holding down the fort. Nicole has been driving Buick's new entry level model, the Envista and the Hyundai Palisade. Meanwhile Sam had the new Toyota Prius Limited AWD and the very pricey Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV.

Nicole gives a preview of the concepts coming up at this year's Easter Jeep Safari in Moab. We've got a first drive review of the blocky new Hyundai Santa Fe with some more rigorous off-roading than the last Hyundai SUV we tried. We also drive the new Ford Ranger and Ranger Raptor. The New York Auto Show is coming up this week and none of us will be there so of course there are some interesting vehicle launches. Nissan has both ends of its product lineup covered with a second-generation Kicks crossover and an all-new Infiniti QX80 that really steps up its game in the big luxury SUV segment. Kia also has a new entry model with the new K4 sedan replacing the Forte. After the uproar over the news that GM was sharing driver data with data brokers, GM has decided to halt that new approach to monetization.

While attending Nvidia GTC in San Jose, Sam took some time to ride Waymo robotaxis in San Francisco and then sat down in the new Volvo EX90 with the Swedish automaker's head of software engineering Alwin Bakennes. Finally, we answer some listener questions.

Links

2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

2024 Ford Ranger

2024 Ford Ranger Raptor

2025 Infiniti QX80

2025 Kia K4

2025 Nissan Kicks

GM stops data sharing

Riding with Waymo

Running the Ranger Raptor in the desert

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Touch The Vent Not The Screen Mar 16, 2024

This week Sam has been driving the Honda Passport Trailsport.

Sam assesses the new Lincoln Nautilus and likes the big screen, but there are other issues. Don't forget to check out the video Sam and Nicole did with the Nautilus. Porsche is finally bringing out a hybrid version of the 911. Renowned automotive Designer Marcello Gandini has died at 85. Are automakers sharing too much of our data? Polestar cuts the price of the 3 before it even arrives. Audi is forcing subscriptions on the new A3. Dan Edmunds and Motor Trend look at the Cybertruck and Automotive News no longer classes Tesla as a luxury brand. Finally, Rivian drivers can start using superchargers.

Links

2024 Lincoln Nautilus First Drive

Sam's Nautilus take

Hybrid Porsche 911

Polestar 3 US pricing down by $10K

Marcello Gandini dies at 85

Data from connected cars

Audi A3 subscriptions

Dan Edmunds examines the cybertruck

Motor Trend on the Cybertruck

Tesla no longer a luxury brand

Rivian Supercharging now working

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Return of the Gremlin Mar 10, 2024

This week Sam has been driving the Genesis Electrified G80. Robbie was picking speakers for his band in the Land Rover Defender 130 and Nicole has the Infiniti QX60.

The core of Henrik Fisker's original design for the Karma continues to live on, now as part of the Karma Automotive and the Chinese-owned company has just launched a refreshed version that ditches the plug-in series hybrid for a full electric powertrain. Nissan has addressed one of the biggest complaints about the Ariya EV by cutting the price. There are currently no EVs that will charge at 500 kW, but Gravity Mobility has installed just such a charger in New York. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is still relatively new, but it's already getting an update.

We frequently complain about automakers putting controls into the touchscreen and now EuroNCAP is going to cut their safety ratings if they don't bring back physical controls.Rivian has revealed now just one, but two new vehicles, but they won't start arriving for at least two years. The Blazer EV is back on sale and now has a significantly lower price. Finally Sam has been using a local Tesla Supercharger station with Ford and Genesis vehicles.

Links

Karma Gyesera

Nissan cuts Ariya prices

500 kW charger in NYC

Hyundai Ioniq 5 refresh gets more battery, rear wiper

EuroNCAP calls for return of physical buttons

Rivian R2 and R3

Return of the Blazer EV with a lower price

Supercharging a Ford Mustang Mach-E

Charging a G80 with a Magic Dock

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Who Cares About Efficiency? Mar 05, 2024

This week Nicole is driving the Ford Maverick Tremor, Robbie has the Range Rover plug-in hybrid and Sam has new Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road.

We've got lots of news this week. After a decade of work and billions of dollars spent, Apple has apparantely finally abandoned the idea of building a car. Ford took its latest electric Supervan and had Romain Dumas set a new lap record at Mount Panorama. Ford is also hosting a camping party at the Austin Bronco Off-Rodeo for the upcoming total solar eclipse and Ford EV drivers can now Supercharge.

Sam went to a secret location to see the production version of Dodge's new e-Muscle car, the Charger Daytona. Honda has introduced a new plug-in hybrid CR-V with a fuel cell and VW has done some upgrades to the ID4. Fisker warns that they are almost out of money and then Nissan steps up to possibly save the company. Finally Red Bull has a crazy drone that can track a Formula 1 car.

Links

The end of the Apple car

2024 Dodge Charger Daytona

Ford SuperVan 4.2 Bathurst record

Ford EVs can now access Superchargers

Total Solar Eclipse at Bronco Off-Rodeo

Honda CR-V e:FCEV

2024 VW ID4 upgrades

Fisker warns of running out of cash

Fisker talking to Nissan

World's Fastest camera drone chases Red Bull F1 car

Roman Breaks a new Tacoma

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What's Happening at Jeep? Feb 25, 2024

This week Robbie got to spend some time with something really fast, the new McLaren 750s. Meanwhile, Nicole and Sam had some more pedestrian rides. Nicole got a few days with the Volkswagen ID.7 as well as the Jeep Hornet PHEV. Sam had the Toyota Crown Platinum.

In the news, we've got first drive reports on the updated 2025 Ram 1500, now powered only by six-cylinder engines and the Honda Prologue, the brand's firsrt purpose-built EV for North America. Sam also talks with Prologue chief engineer John Hwang. Jeep's new CEO provide's an update on the SUV brand's plans and we get a first look at the upcoming Wagoneer S and Recon electric SUVs. Ineos is developing an electric off-roader as well called the Fusilier. The soon to arrive US-built Kia EV9 may not have full tax credit eligibility at launch. Waymo's expansion plans in California are paused and Cruise problems will put a damper on GM bonuses. We also have listener questions.

Links

Jeep Update

Honda Prologue first drive

2025 Ram 1500 first drive

Ineos Fusilier EV

US Built Kia EV9 soon, without full tax credit

Waymo expansion suspended

40% of GM bonuses based on EV, software, Cruise

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Testing Tires Feb 20, 2024

Robbie is back from Colorado where he attended the Bridgestone winter driving school and spent time with the Toyota Rav4 and 4Runner in the snow. He also rented a Ford Transit van to move ping-pong tables and drove a Kia Carnival. Nicole has been spending time in the psuedo off-road Honda Passport Trailsport and Sam had the Audi Q8 e-Tron Sportback Launch edition.

In the news, GM is expanding the driving domain of Super Cruise and has priced the Chevy Equinox EV which might eventually go on sale when the software issues are fixed. As more vehicles start to use Tesla Superchargers, Kyle Connor is finding there are interoperability issues. The multi-automaker DC fast charging network is now operational and called Ionna. Being made of stainless steel doesn't make Cybertrucks corrosion proof and Stellantis won't be buying any more EV credits from Tesla. Shell has shut down its California hydrogen stations and a crowd in San Francisco burned a Waymo robotaxi that drove by during lunar new year celebrations.

Finally, we are joined by Tire Rack's tire testing manager TJ Campbell to talk about rubber.

Links

Super Cruise expanding to 750K miles

Chevrolet Equinox EV $35-47K, 319 miles w/FWD

Interoperability issues with Superchargers

Cybertruck rust?

Shell closes California H2 stations

San Francisco crowd burns Waymo

Stellantis done buying EV credits

Tire Rack

Ionna Charging Network

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Killing Unused Features Feb 13, 2024

Robbie is off visiting some family this week, but even with just Nicole and Sam it's a long episode. Sam has been burning up the gas in a Ford F-250 XL 4x4 while Nicole has a much more reasonably sized Subaru Outback.

Nicole and Sam were both in Chicago this week and talk about the future of auto shows. While in Chicago we saw a bunch of stuff including mid-cycle updates for the Kia K5 sedan and Carnival minivan (sorry, I meant MPV). Parking large or heavy vehicles in Paris will soon be much more expensive. A majority of workers at VW's Chatanooga factory have signed up to join the UAW and an official vote may be coming soon. Americans are loosing trust in automated vehicles and companies like Cruise and Tesla have only themselves to blame. We saw the Cybertruck and Sam has some serious safety concerns. Automakers collect data from connected vehicles on which features customers actually use. Ford is using this data as justification to drop automater parking assist because no one uses it. We talk with Julie and Chris Ramsey about their Pole to Pole road trip in a Nissan Ariya. We also spoke with Chris Feuell, CEO of the Chrysler brand about the new Halcyon concept and what we can expect from the brand in the next couple of years. We also answer some listener emails.

Links

Paris votes to charge large, heavy vehicles more for parking

Majority of VW workers sign UAW cards

Ford Skunkworks team developing low cost EV

Americans losing trust in AVs

Cybertruck safety issues

2025 Kia Carnival

2025 Kia K5

Ford Killing Active Park Assist

Chrysler Halcyon

Ionna Charging Network

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Bringing Back Hybrids Feb 05, 2024

This week Sam is driving a very luxurious and pricey version of the J300 Land Cruiser in the form of the Lexus LX600. Robbie has been trying out the 2024 Ford Mustang Premium Ecoboost and Nicole had Toyota Prius.

Nicole has first thoughts on driving the new Lexus GX. Ford and Lincoln have finally gotten around to updating the Explorer and Aviator and they both lose their hybrid variants. Mazda is adding another plug-in hybrid with the new CX-70, basically a two-row version of the CX-90. GM is also bringing plug-in hybrids back to the US market, eventually. Honda is reportedly working on an electric next-gen NSX. Kyle Conner tries to buy a Vinfast VF8 and Volvo is pausing deliveries of the EX30 because of software problems. Early Cybertruck owners are having issues with tires and suspensions and Elon wants protection from China.

Links

2024 Lexus GX

2025 Ford Explorer

2025 Lincoln Aviator

2025 Mazda CX-70

GM to bring back PHEVs

Honda NSX EV

Kyle Conner tries to buy a Vinfast VF8

Volvo EX30 deliveries paused because Software

Cybertruck aero wheel covers chewing up tires

Broken Cybertruck at King of the Hammers

Elon wants more tariffs on Chinese EVs

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Lucy With the Football Jan 28, 2024

Nicole has been having some fun with the Mazda 3 Turbo while Robbie has the Subaru Impreza RS. Sam is driving the most affordable Buick in a long time in the form of the new Envista.

In the news, Chevrolet has revealed a second completely different and not at all electric Equinox and expanded its CT5 refresh to the CT5-V and CT5-V Blackwing. Honda and Acura have released pricing on the Prologue and ZDX which won't be released until GM fixes the software platform. The dealership employees that sold a Dodge Demon 170 that was allocated to a member of the military to someone willing to pay an extra $50,000 have been fired. Porsche has released a second-generation Macan that is now exclusively electric. Akio Toyoda thinks EVs won't exceed 30% market share and Revoy has an electric assist system for heavy trucks. Sam talked with Andrey at TFL trucks about modded trucks and we answer some listener questions.

Links

2025 Chevrolet Equinox

Dealers fires employees who sold Demon 170

Acura ZDX pricing

Honda Prologue pricing and range

Porsche Macan EV

Akio Toyoda projects EVs will top out at 30% share

2025 Cadillac CT5-V/CT5-V Blackwing

Revoy electric truck assist

The limits of modified and lifted trucks

Chevy Astro commercial

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Dealers be Dealering Jan 22, 2024

This week, Nicole has the Mazda CX-50 in a disappointing color, Robbie has the Range Rover Velar in one of the 8 available non-colors and Sam is driving the Chevrolet Trailblazer in Cacti Green.

In the news, Jeep teases the upcoming Wagoneer S EV with too much power. Stellantis also launches the Ram Promaster EV and confirms the STLA Large EV platform will also support hybrid powertrains. JerryRigEverything tries towing with the Cybertruck and comes up short. For some reason, BMW has decided to put some humanoid robots into the Spartanburg assembly plant, what could go wrong? Mazda has launched a development program for a new rotary sports car, will it ever be built?

Ford and Lincoln are launching an all-new infotainment system based on Android with a 48-inch full-width screen. Sam also spoke with friend of the show, Andrey Smirnov for an episode of TFL Trucks about lifted trucks and we debate the legitimacy of a threads video about software defined vehicles. Sam also has a conversation with Paul Thomas, president of the mobility unit of Bosch from CES.

Links

Jeep Wagoneer S

8 STLA Large EVs coming by 2026

Ram Promaster EV

JerryRigEverything Tows with the Cybertruck

BMW to deploy humanoid robots in Spartanburg

Ford abandons self-repo cars

Mazda Launching rotary sports car development

Ford/Lincoln Digital Experience

The problem with lifted trucks no one talks about

More software defined vehicle trouble

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Tell Me A Dinosaur Story Jan 15, 2024

Sam and Robbie survived another year of CES and have lots to discuss. Sam has been driving the Chrysler Pacifica plug-in hybrid since returning. Nicole has had the Hyundai Tucson and Robbie got to ride the Honda Motocompacto at CES.

At CES, large language models have been integrated into cars with VW using ChatGPT, BMW using one from Amazon and Mercedes-Benz working with Nvidia. Fisker joins Vinfast in ditching direct sales as it signs up dealers and Sam chats with Henrik Fisker about it. Honda's new concepts preview its upcoming Series 0 EVs coming in 2026. There was lidar news from Hesai, Robosense, Aeva and Luminar. Intel is jumping back into the automotive chip business. Eaton has developed an EV charger that fits in your circuit breaker panel. Supernal and Xpeng are still trying to make personal aviation a thing. Android Auto is getting battery state of charge information for Google Maps and the Detroit Auto Show is going back to January. Vinfast also showed off a pickup truck and tiny crossover at CES.

Links

VW gets ChatGPT, LLMs everywhere

Fisker abandons direct sales

Honda Series 0 concepts

Lidar in China

Luminar Demo

Intel gets into cars - again

Eaton's mini EV charger

Supernal

Xpeng AeroHT

NAIAS Goes Back to January, right against CES

Android Auto gets battery information

Vinfast at CES

Amphicar

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**And The Winners Are...** Jan 05, 2024
This week Sam and Robbie both have large, luxury, three-row SUVs with turbocharged inline-six cylinder engines. Robbie has the BMW X7 and Sam has the Cadillac Escalade Platinum diesel.
In the news we have the winners of the 2024 North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year awards. Ford also bumps up pricing on the F-150 Lightning again, only a few EVs retain tax credit eligibility for 2024, Porsche is making a faster Taycan, Stellantis is quiting auto shows and Tesla is cutting the estimated ranges of its EVs to something more realistic. Motor Trend drives the BYD Seal in Mexico and a University of Michigan study says you won't save money driving an EV if you fast charge.
**Links**
NACTOY 2024 winners
Ford Lightning prices on the rise again
Which EVs are still eligible for tax credits
New track focused Porsche Taycan
BYD Seal first drive at MT
Stellantis done with auto shows
UofM TCO study
Tesla lowers range estimates

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We Can't Have Nice Things Dec 31, 2023

This week, Sam has been driving the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Veloce and Nicole shares her experience renting a Volvo XC60 diesel in Switzerland.

Daihatsu which only briefly sold its small cars in the US in late 1980s and early 1990s reveals that for more than 30 years it has been faking safety certification documents for its vehicles along with those it has built for Toyota, Subaru and Mazda. Volvo is rolling out more EVs as it moves towards being an all-electric brand by the end of the decade with the ES90 sedan no in early pre-production. It's not unusual for car rental companies to have age limits for renters, but you might think 3-time F1 champion might get an exception, but you'd be wrong. Vinfast which launched with direct consumer sales has signed up its first franchised dealer. Apparently California law doesn't allow police to write tickets to driverless cars that break traffic laws. The last V8-powered Dodge Challenger has left the building and VW has an electric GTI coming in 2026 but America might not get it. Finally, patron Adam J writes in to tell us about his experience using Auto Socks.

If you didn't get your Wheel Bearings swag for the holidays, you can still order what you want at https://shop.wheelbearings.media

Links

Daihatsu forges crash test results for 30 years

Volvo ES90 could arrive by 2025

Max Verstappen too young to rent AMG GT

Vinfast gets 1st US dealer

California AVs can't get tickets

the last V8 Dodge Challenger

VW ID GTI arrives in 2026

Burgess Meredith Twilight Zone - Time Enough At Last

Auto Socks

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Winter Socks for Tires Dec 27, 2023

Nicole is back and she has the new Honda Accord Hybrid Sport! Robbie is back and he's got thoughts on the Volvo C40 and Electrify America! Sam gets a bunch of electric miles out of the Alfa Romeo Tonale Ti eAWD.

In the news, the Chevy Blazer EV we discussed last week is having some major software issues and GM has issued a stop sale order. Tesla's big recall hasn't actually address the problems with Autopilot as expected and they are also having trouble making batteries for the Cybertruck. Scooter sharing pioneer Bird goes bankrupt and Hyperloop One shuts down for good. Porsche and Aston Martin may be debut brands for next-generation Apple CarPlay and the first Cadillac Celestiq is spotted on Woodward Avenue. Our friends at TFL test winter tires vs all-seasons vs chains vs snow socks and you might be surprised at the winner. Finally, SAE has finished the new charging standard based on the Tesla connector (J3400) and Sam talks with Dr. Rodney McGee, chair of the task force that developed it.

Charging socket types

NACS 277V support

Links

Snow/All-Season tires vs chains and snow socks

Blazer EV problems

More Blazer EV problems

Tesla recall doesn't work

Tesla battery hell

Bird goes bankrupt

Hyperloop One is done

Porsche and Aston Martin to launch next-gen Carplay

First Cadillac Celestiq prototype spotted

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Strategic Crown Vic Reserve Dec 16, 2023

This week Robbie and his wife are visiting New York for the holidays and Nicole and her hubbie are hitting the Christmas markets along their European river cruise route. Fortunately, Stephanie Brinley is back to join Sam. Steph has been driving the Nissan Leaf SV+ while Sam spent time in the Chevrolet Colorado Trail Boss and the Kia EV9.

Stephanie and Sam both got to drive the new Chevrolet Blazer EV and share their thoughts good and otherwise on the vehicle and the new Carplay-free infotainment system. Cadillac also dropped the first images of its fourth electric SUV, the three-row Vistiq coming as a 2026 model. The Los Angeles County Sherrif's department was such a fan of the Ford Crown Victoria that when production ended 11 years ago, they ordered a stockpile and they still have hundreds in service. Tesla had a big recall this week that will have almost zero impact and a Model S driver in Germany has racked up more than 1 millions but is this the Tesla of Theseus? Finally, VW is going back to physical buttons and we have a listener question.

Links

Chevy Blazer EV first Drive

GM's new projection-free infotainment

2026 Cadillac Vistiq

LA Sherrif dept strategic Crown Vic reserve

anti-drunk driving tech

Tesla Autopilot recall

Million mile Tesla of Theseus

VW bringing back physical buttons

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Are We Ready To Swap? Dec 10, 2023

Tanya joins us again this week as Nicole's European Christmas vacation continues. She spent time with the Toyota Sequoia and the Honda Civic sedan. Meanwhile Sam spent a week with the updated BMW X5 eDrive50 that went 45 miles on a charge of the new larger battery pack.

In the news, friend of the show Jamie Kitman shared his first driving impressions of the Fisker Ocean and concluded, that it's not yet fully baked. Stellantis is winding down production of the Chrysler 300 and partnering with Ample to test battery module swapping for a fleet of 500es in a car sharing service in Madrid. Once batteries reach the end of their life, they need to be recycled and Toyota is partnering with Cirba to develop a collection and distribution system for hybrid and electric vehicle batteries to go to recycling centers. Honda has teased the radical new look for its upcoming EVs and Chevrolet has confirmed the next-generation Bolt will come out in 2025. So what do you do when you have a 22 year old Honda Odyssey minivan and a wrecked Tesla Model S Plaid? Why merge them of course. Tanya tells us about her visit to the BMW Silicon Valley Tech Center and Sam talks with GM Energy's Derek Sequeira about what the automaker is doing on the charging front.

Links

Jamie Kitman reviews the Fisker Ocean

Stellantis to test Ample battery swapping

The end of the road for the Chrysler 300

Toyota partners with Cirba Solutions for battery recycling

Honda teases new EVs for CES

New Chevrolet Bolt in 2025

Plaidessey

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Better Late Than Never? Dec 02, 2023

This week Sam drove the 2024 GMC Canyon AT4 and guest host Tanya Gazdik tells us about her experience with a rental Jeep Renegade in Utah and the new Honda Civic. Tanya also got a first drive in the new Toyota Tacoma.

Almost 4 years to the day after smashing the windows on the Cybertruck concept, Tesla finally delivered the first 10 production examples to customers. It's both less and more than the original concept although it looks pretty much the same (apart from the triangular side mirrors and the ludicrously large windshield wiper). Another EV startup Fisker is facing some major challenges and is cutting production for 2023 to conserve cash. The IRS says no tax credits for EVs with Chinese parts or minerals in the batteries (unless you lease) and Connecticut is pausing efforts to ban sales of new ICE vehicles by 2035. Nissan is going to build the next generation Leaf in the UK and it might be a small crossover that looks like the 2021 Chill-out concept. Detroit now has a small stretch of road that can charge EVs while they drive and Atlanta wants to ban drunk drivers and street racers for life. If you want to drive fast, go to a local track or drag strip or autocross, it's suprisingly cheap and easy. Finally, we have an interview with Hyundai North America senior manager of product planning Michael Evanoff.

Head to FactorMeals.com/wheelbearings50 and use code wheelbearings50 to get 50% off

Links

Cybertruck

Fisker in trouble?

No Tax Credits for Chinese batteries

Connecticut pulls the plug on ICE ban

Nissan Chill-out concept = Next Leaf?

Detroit's EV Charging Road

Atlanta wants to ban drunk drivers and street racers for life

Rivian range extender patent

Hagerty Motorsport Registration

Roman Mica on the "Cybercar"

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Not A Daily Driver Nov 26, 2023

It's just Robbie and Sam today as Nicole starts a European vacation with her hubbie. Next week we should have a third participant. Sam drove the 2024 Ford F-250 King Ranch which is a really impressive truck for doing work, but trucks this size have no business being used as daily drivers. Robbie had another stint in the Kia EV6, this time a RWD GT-Line variant.

Motorsports has become increasingly important to Hyundai, but its new performance standard bearer, the Ioniq 5 N has nowhere to compete, so Hyundai might just create a one-make series for it. Next year, you'll be able to buy Hyundai vehicles on Amazon. Porsche has a new Panamera with more electric driving range, Magna will be engineering the new Scout electric off-roaders from VW, and New Jersey will ban new internal combustion cars, but will it let people charge their own EVs?

Cruise has been in a lot of trouble in the past month and its CEO just resigned. When the GM subsidiary does resume operations, it will be scaling way back and slowing down growth plans. Toyota is also taking it slow with solid-state batteries and a judge has decided that Tesla new about defects in Autopilot. Tesla offers customers insurance, but is it worth it? While Tesla Cybertruck deliveries are scheduled to start this week, a Vietnamese craftsman has built his own, out of wood. We anser listener questions and Sam talks to Kia COO Steve Center.

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Links

Will the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N get a 1 make series?

Buying a Hyundai on Amazon

2024 Porsche Panamera

Magna Steyr may develop Scout for VW

Cruise scales way back

New Jersey to ban ICE, but will they let you charge your own EV?

Judge decides Tesla knew about Autopilot Flaws

Toyota goes slow on solid state batteries

Tesla Insurance a lemon?

Wooden Cybertruck

EV Guide

Cherry 1977 Ford Bronco

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Frunk-Gating Nov 21, 2023

This week Sam drove the 2024 Hyundai Kona and also got a bit of wheel time in the new Volvo EX30. Nicole got another stint in the Subaru Crosstrek, this time in sport trim.

In the news, there's lots of stuff from the LA Auto Show including the 2025 Toyota Camry and Crown Signia, Kia's EV3 and EV4 concepts, the Genesis GV80 Coupe with an updated interior and the debut of the Lucid Gravity. EVs are getting a new on-board diagnostics standard and the Honda Prelude is headed for production as a hybrid sport coupe. Sam had an interview with Lucid software/electronics chief Mike Bell, chief engineer Eric Bach and CEO Peter Rawlinson.

Links

Cadillac Optiq

2025 Toyota Camry

2025 Toyota Crown Signia

EVs get standard OBD

Lucid Gravity

Kia EV3 and EV4

Honda Prelude headed to production

New GV80 interior

Lucid Gravity design walk around with Derek Jenkins

Lucid Gravity HMI tour with Dave Flint

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Appropriately Named Nov 12, 2023

This week it's just Nicole and Sam. Since she last joined us, Nicole has been driving a fabulous wagon, the Volvo V60 Cross-Country and the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 high-performance SUV. Sam has had the Chevrolet Tahoe RST with a big, classic American V8.

Sam got to drive a bunch of newer models from the BMW group including the i5 eDrive40, i5 M60, 530i, XM and the fabulous and quiet Rolls-Royce Spectre. Nicole ran the Mille Miglia Warmup again, scoring better than last year, but unfortunately falling one slot in the standings. At Polestar Day, Sam saw all the new stuff coming from the Volvo spin-off brand including getting rides in the P3 and P4. Nicole got to try out the new Volvo EX30 in Spain and NHTSA warns drivers not to bedazzle their air-bag equipped steering wheels. We also answer a listener question about liability with automated vehicles.

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Links

Don't bedazzle your steering wheel

Volvo EX30

Mille Miglia warmup

Vredestein tires

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Don't Call It A Hybrid Nov 07, 2023

Nicole is on the road this week so it's just Sam and Robbie. But Robbie was flying back and forth to Singapore so he didn't drive anything. Sam had the new Subaru Impreza and a short stint with the Kia EV9.

In the news, details of the Stellantis tentative agreement with the UAW are out and confirm plans for a new midsize pickup as well as several EVs and where they will be built. Ram is refreshing the 1500 pickup with new engines and grilles and adding the "range extended paradigm changer" aka the Ramcharger. Just don't call it a hybrid. Hyundai has cut prices on the Ioniq 6 sedan for 2024 and Porsche is adopting Android Automotive for its infotainment from 2025. Or friends at TFL check out the Nissan Safari Z concept at SEMA and Sam saw the original in Japan. We finish up with listener questions.

Check out Factor 75 and use my code wheelbearings50 for a great deal: https://www.factor75.com/

Links

Ram midsize pickup going to Belvidere plant

2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6 up to $4100 cheaper

Porsche goes Android in 2025

TFL checks out the Nissan Safari Z concept

The original Safari Z

2025 Ram 1500 and Ramcharger

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The Tardis of EVs Oct 29, 2023

Sam is back from Korea and Japan and has driven the 2024 Chevrolet Trax. Nicole has the Ford Maverick Tremor and spends time riding on a GoCycle e-Bike. Robbie spent the week with the Subaru Crosstrek.

In the news, Sam has highlights from the Japan Mobility Show in Tokyo including the Mazda Iconic SP concept, the Infiniti Vision Qe concept which previews a new electric sedan coming for 2026, and the Nissan Hyper Force concept. Honda showed off a new hybrid sports coupe that brings back the Prelude name. Lexus also had some concepts including the LF-ZC sedan (also coming in 2026) and an off-road equipped RZ. Subaru also dropped a coupe concept called Sport Mobility with no details. Finall Sam got to try out a couple of Japanese market Nissans, the Sakura electric Kei car and the series hybrid X-Trail (sold in America as Rogue) E-Power. We finish up with a couple of listener questions.

Links

Mazda Iconic SP concept

Infiniti Vision Qe

Nissan Sakura

Nissan Sakura photos

Nissan X-Trail e-Power

Subaru Sport Mobility Concept

TFL Tours the Japan Mobility Show

Grumpy Roman on the Lexus RZ

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Falling Short and Expensive Oct 22, 2023

Sam is in the middle of a 2 week jaunt in Korea and Japan so it's just Nicole and Robbie today. Robbie has the Ford F-150 Lightning again and Nicole is driving the refreshed Kia Seltos.

In the news, Toyota dropped a bunch of images of new EV concepts it will highlighting at the Japan Mobility Show. Mercedes dealers are apparently having a hard time moving EVs. We'll see if Tesla has an equally hard time selling Cybertrucks soon because they apparently will be a lot more expensive than the announced prices back in 2019. For those that were hoping for a big range boost on the refreshed Model 3, think again. Stellantis is saving some cash by withdrawing from SEMA, LA auto show and CES. GM's new Brightdrop Zevo 6 delivery van is being transformed into an electric camper and more workers are being furloughed due to the UAW strikes.

Don't forget your Wheel Bearings merch at https://shop.wheelbearings.media

Links

Toyota Tokyo EV concepts

Mercedes dealers having trouble selling EVs

Cybertruck deliveries soon? Affordable, not so much

Stellantis pulls out of Sema, LA, CES

Refreshed Tesla Model 3 fails to meet range claims, again

Transforming the Brightdrop delivery van into a camper

UAW Layoffs and….

…more to come

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A Very Expensive Bumper Oct 14, 2023

This week on the show we've been driving a broad selection of stuff even though Robbie had nothing new to report on the Kia Niro EV. Sam had two very quick but very different red cars, the Kia EV6 GT and an all too brief stint with the Maserati MC20. Nicole drove the BMW M2 with a manual gearbox and sampled the new Lexus TX 3-row utility.

Our good pals at TFL have a "new" car in their fleet that they regretted buying before they even got off the auction lot, the Kandi K27. Kia unveiled a batch of lower cost EVs in Korea this week that we may or may not see in North America. BMW unveiled the next-generation X2 and Nissan dropped some renders of the 2nd of 3 EV concepts that Sam will see in Tokyo in a couple of weeks. If you're not satisfied with the paint on your Tesla (and let's face it, who is?) Tesla will now wrap it for you.

Finally, we have some merch now at Cotton Bureau so you can show off your favorite automotive podcast. Go to https://shop.wheelbearings.media and check out our selection of shirts and phone cases.

Links

TFL and the Kandi K27

Nissan Hyper Adventure Concept

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A Long Note Oct 08, 2023

This week Robbie gets his hands on the almost base model Lucid Air, the all-wheel drive Pure. Nicole has the new Subaru Crosstrek which is no longer offered in high-visibility orange and Sam drive the Lexus RZ450e with its flimsy charge port door.

In the news, Ford is upgrading the climate control on the 2024 F-150 Lightning with heat pumps, and Nissan previews the Hyper Urban concept EV that we'll see in Tokyo in a couple of weeks. A company that was burning used EV batteries for testing in central Ohio agrees to stop and EV owners in Texas encounter a nasty-gram at the charger - from other EV owners. Volvo announces pricing for the new EX30 and Home Depot is going to phase out gas powered outdoor equipment. Rivians can now be ordered with the Max battery pack for over 400 miles of range. Rivian owners that get minor body damage should consider looking beyond company authorized body shops for service and the UAW gets a huge concession from GM on battery plants.

Links

MY 24 Ford Lightning gets heat pumps

Nissan Hyper Urban Concept

Piqua Ohio ends battery testing

Volvo prices EX30

Getting EV drivers to use appropriate chargers

Rivian dent repair

Home depot to phase out gas lawn equipment

Rivian delivers 410-mile max pack

UAW gets big battery win from GM

Calculations with the Kia EV6

EGo Single stage battery snow blower

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I Found It A Little Wonkety Oct 01, 2023

This week, Robbie rented a Chrysler Pacifica for a family road trip. Nicole drove the lovely Volvo S60 Recharge plug-in hybrid sedan and Sam had the latest Honda Accord Hybrid.

In the news, Honda showed off the Prologue, its first high-volume battery electric vehicle. It's a midsize crossover built for Honda on the Ultium architecture. At the 7th Rennsport Reunion at Laguna Seca, Porsche unveiled the 911 GT3 R Rennsport, a $1 million track day special. Sam was in Austin for Move America 2023 where he met a company called Carvaloo that claims to be able to detect even minor impacts based on signals from vehicle sensors and then went for some more rides in Cruise robotaxis.

Finally, it's Tacotober. Food insecurity is a major problem in America. Robbie is raising funds for Feeding America and you can help out by donating. If you give at least $50, Robbie will write a song about you. Even if you can't donate right now, consider going and volunteering some time at a local food bank.

Links

Carvaloo

Another Austin Cruise

Porsche 911 GT3 Rennsport

2024 Honda Prologue

Tacotober donations

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Sharing a Bench With Your Bestie Sep 24, 2023

In the garage, Nicole has the Chevrolet Silverado Z71 Trail Boss which isn't as expensive as the GMC Sierra she drove last week and also the Polaris Ranger. Robbie has been getting to band gigs quickly in the Cadillac Escalade V. Sam drove mostly on electrons in the new Prius Prime.

In the news, Ford has announced a plug-in hybrid version of the new Ranger but it's not coming to America ... yet. The third-generation VW Tiguan is coming next year and VW has announced the end of its diesel engines early in 2024. Vinfast is selling EVs, mostly to itself and the UAW has expanded its strike against GM and Stellantis. Our friends at TFL have tested the towing capability of the new Silverado EV. We wrap up with listener questions and Sam's conversation with BorgWarner CTO Harry Husted.

Links

3rd Gen VW Tiguan

Ford Ranger PHEV

TFL tests the Silverado EV,

No more Volvo diesels

UAW strike expansion

Most Vinfast cars delivered to itself

Polaris Ranger

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Suitcase Scooter Sep 17, 2023

This week the whole team converged on the Detroit Auto Show but we never managed to get more than two members in the same place at the same time with Robbie mostly focused on the nearby battery show. Sam drove the Toyota Crown Limited while Nicole had the most off-roady of GMC Sierras with the AT4X AEV Edition. Meanwhile Robbie managed to squeeze his lanky body into a tiny Honda Beat and a bonkers Honda CR-V Hybrid racer (aka The Beast).

At the show, we got refreshed versions of the Ford F-150, Cadillac CT5 and Jeep Gladiator and a brand new GMC Acadia. During but not at the show, Honda announced the foldable Motocompacto Scooter and Ford had the production edition of the Mustang Mach-E Rally. That Mach-E will be raced in the upcoming Rebelle Rally. We have listener questions and Sam's conversations with Bosch CEO Dr. Stefan Hartung and Hyundai global chief safety officer Brian Latouf.

Links

Mustang Mach-E Rally in the Rebelle Rally

Mustang Mach-E Rally

Mike Levine in the Rambox

Rebelle Rally

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Made In China Sep 10, 2023

We've got a full team this week as Robbie drove the updated 2024 Polestar 2, Nicole had the Ford F-150 Raptor R and Hyundai Palisade and Sam spent time with the Mazda CX-90 plug-in hybrid.

Sam got to spend a few days in Munich this week at the IAA Mobility show which included some ride and drive opportunities in some Chinese built cars. First up was the new Lotus Eletre, a radically different type of vehicle from the brand created by Colin Chapman. Later this week, Lotus also unveiled the new Emeya electric four-door GT in New York. Lotus is now owned by China's Geely Group which also owns Zeekr, whose first product, the 001 shares a platform with the upcoming Polestar 4 including its Mobileye SuperVision hands free driving assist system. Finally, there was the Xpeng P7, a very impressive electric sedan from this relatively young Chinese brand. During IAA, there were a number of concepts unveiled that are very close to upcoming production models, the Mercedes-Benz CLA, the BMW Neue Klasse and the VW ID GTI. BMW also designed to end its test of charging a subscription for features like heated seats.

The show wraps up with interviews that Sam did with Acura ZDX chief engineer John Wong and design manager Andrew Foster.

Links

BMW drops heated seat subscriptions

Lotus Emeya

Let's go back to smaller wheels

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Extinction Event Sep 01, 2023

We had record early this week because Sam is flying to Germany this weekend, but Robbie is trying out new Bridgestone tires so it's just Nicole and Sam. Nicole had the fraternal twin of the Toyota Supra, the BMW Z4 while Sam drove the Hyundai Ioniq 6 Limited AWD.

Continuing with Hyundai sedans, the Elantra and Sonata get refreshes for 2024 with new looks and assorted other updates. Mercedes-Benz is about to launch the first of its new DC fast charging stations, complete with canopies. Alfa Romeo is marking the end of internal combustion vehicles with a limited run of the 33 Stradale (sorry, they're already sold out). Also about to be extinct is the manual gearbox in the VW Golf R and GTI and the Ram TRX also ends production at the end of 2023. Sam has a chat with Ford's director of icon vehicles Ali Jammoul and we answer a listener question.

Links

Mercedes-Benz to open first DC fast chargers by end of year

2024 Hyundai Elantra

2024 Hyundia Sonata

Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale

Last call for the Ram TRX

No More Manual Golf GTI or R

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Send Them To School Aug 27, 2023

Tanya Gazdik is back this week subbing for Nicole and she has been driving the Mercedes-Benz EQB and having a bad charging experience in Detroit. Tanya also spent time in the latest Range Rover LWB. Robbie tells us about driving the new BMW X5M Competition to Monterey car week and renting a Tesla Model 3 from Hertz. Meanwhile Sam got to do some shifting in the Toyota GR Supra with a manual gearbox.

In the news, Ford offers a factory matte black wrap for the Lightning and launches a cool looking Transit Custom-based camper in Europe called the Nugget. NHTSA has given clearance for automakers to comply with the lates Massachusetts right to repair law and Chevrolet has launched the first EV with a full police pursuit package.

In China, Kia has unveiled a compact electric crossover that will hopefully be offered in North America and taken away its cheap and fun Rio. EV drivers that want to future proof their home charging have a great new option in the Universal Wall Connector from Tesla. Our pals at TFL have created a great cheap Jeep series where they take some cheap old Jeeps to Moab. Finally we answer some listener questions including what to do with a young driver.

Links

Ford wraps the F-150 Lightning

Ford Nugget Camper

NHTSA approves Mass. Right to Repair law

Chevrolet Blazer EV Police Pursuit

Kia EV5

Kia Rio dead in America

Tesla Magic Dock home charger

Cheap Jeep series

The Fast Lane

Atlanta area advance driving skills for teens

Skip Barber Driving Academy

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The Most Audacious Aug 20, 2023

This week Robbie hanging out among the fancy people covering Monterey Car Week so Stephanie Brinley is back with Nicole and Sam. Sam took a road trip in the Honda Pilot Trailsport. Stephanie had the Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV and Mazda CX-90 plug-in hybrid. Nicole drove the Mazda CX-30 turbo.

In the news, we've got several of the vehicles unveiled in Monterey including the new Acura ZDX, Lamborghini Lanzador and Mustang GTD. Ford CEO Jim Farley took a cross country road trip in an F-150 Lightning and came away with the same conclusion as other non-Tesla EV drivers, the charging experience sucks. Ford continues to keep its transaction prices up by culling base models. It turns out people really did want a Supra with a manual gearbox and we answer a bunch of listener questions.

Links

Acura ZDX

Charging satisfaction continues to decline

Nearly 50% of Supras are manual

Ford dropping base Bronco, now nearly $40K

Mustang GTD

Jim Farley faces terrible charging experience

Lamborghini Lanzador

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The Detritus of Daily Life Aug 11, 2023

In the garage this week we have two similarly sized electric crossovers that are very different. Sam drove the Toyota bZ4X Limited AWD while Nicole had the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV. Robbie wraps up his time with the Mazda Miata.

In the news, Cadillac took the wraps off its oversized, overweight Escalade IQ and GM promised to have bidirectional vehicle to home charging on all of its EVs by 2026.Chargepoint says it will invest millions of dollars to try to get its chargers to 100% reliability. BMW is developing a 790hp PHEV BMW M5 wagon that Americans won't be able to get. We consider a radically redesigned 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe. A Tesla driver was alerted to put his hands on the steering wheel 150 times before his Model X crashed into a police car and injured 5 officers. The average transaction prices of EVs are finally dropping thanks to Tesla price cuts and listener Adam shares his thoughts on his dad's experience fast charging his Cadillac Lyriq.

Links

BMW M5 Touring 790hp V8 PHEV

Cadillac Escalade IQ

Chargepoint to invest in reliability

GM still struggling to build EVs

GM to have bidirectional charging on all EVs by 2026

2019 Tesla alerted driver 150 times prior to fatal crash

2024 Hyundai Santa Fe First Look

EV ATPs dropping

GM EV Live

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Just A Boondogle Aug 06, 2023

This week Nicole is having a seriously fun time with the 2023 Honda Civic Type-Rrrrr! Robbie is also having fun with a car that surprisingly fits both him and his bass guitar, the Mazda Miata Club. Sam actually had a great Electrify America charging experience with the Genesis GV70 Electrified.

In the news, it appears that VW may be getting ready to launch an electric GTI. Toyota revealed the all-new Land Cruiser which is basically a more affordable and arguably better looking version of the Lexus GX and is finally bringing the plug-in hybrid Lexus RX450h+ to America. Speaking of America, we've poisoned Britain with our preference for SUVs over cars so Volvo is going to stop selling cars in the UK. Mazda couldn't find enough American buyers for the MX-30 so it's discontinuing it here. Henrik Fisker should off a bunch of upcoming products with some cool features, but it's too early to say which of them will actually make it to market. The Detroit Concours d'Elegance is back in midtown Detroit in September and should have more really interesting cars. Finally we answer listener questions about manufacturer license plates and stick shift transmissions without clutch pedals (the links below do a better job explaining the VW automatic stick shift than Sam did).

Links

Electric VW GTI on the way?

2024 Toyota Land Cruiser

2024 Lexus RX450h+

Volvo stops selling cars in UK

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Bad Lessons Jul 30, 2023

This week in the Wheel Bearings garage, Robbie is driving the latest BMW M2, complete with what may be one of the last manual transmissions in a BMW. Nicole has the non-Max version of the new Lexus RX hybrid, the RX350h and Sam is driving the Honda CR-V hybrid.

In the news, seven (really six, but who's counting) are teaming up for a joint-venture to build 30,000 DC fast chargers with cool accessories like restrooms, food and canopies! Ford launches the Mustang Challenge race series featuring a new factory-built racer, the Mustang Dark Horse R. VW invests to buy 5% of Xpeng, Robbie swaps EV battery modules with Ample and Honda is killing the E because of SUVs. Volvo clearly wasn't listening to the howls of pain from VW ID owners when it designed the EX30. Vinfast broke ground on a new factory in North Carolina and we hope it doesn't turn out like the Faraday Future factory in Las Vegas. Finally, Sam went to Cars in my Yard 2023

Send in your questions to feedback@wheelbearings.media.

Links

EV Charging joint venture

VW invests in Xpeng

Mustang Dark Horse R, Mustang Challenge

Ample Battery Swapping

Bad American influence kills Honda E

Volvo takes bad lessons for EX30

Vinfast groundbreaking

Faraday Future Groundbreaking

Cars In My Yard 2023

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It's Mostly New Jul 25, 2023

Nicole is travelling again this week so our friend Stephanie Brinley from S&P Global Mobility is filling in. Stephanie has been driving the Lexus LC500 while Robbie had the Lamborghini Urus Performante. Sam meanwhile had to make do with a Corolla, the GR Corolla Morizo edition.

Steph and Sam both drove the 2024 Ford Mustang this week which despite marketing claims to being "all-new" is really mostly new, but don't let that take anything away from the last pony car standing. JD Power revealed the results of its 2023 APEAL Survey and S&P had a survey on what consumers are willing to pay for subscriptions in their vehicles. BMW M's boss thinks simulated shifting may be the way to go in performance EVs and Tesla says there are talks to license FSD. We also answer listener questions.

Links

2024 Ford Mustang EcoBoost first drive

2024 Ford Mustang GT first drive

JD Power Apeal survey

Willingness to pay for subscriptions

BMW M supports simulated gearboxes for EVs

Tesla in talks to license FSD to "major OEM"

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The Fancy Sandwich of SUVs Jul 17, 2023

This week Robbie and Sam both had Lincoln's baby plug-in hybrid, the Corsair Grand Touring. Aside from the position of the start-stop button, and Robbie's inability to arrange the 24-way driver's seat adjustment to comfortable, there isn't much fundamentally wrong with it, but is it worth the price? Meanwhile, Nicole had the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV which cost twice as much but lacks an engine altogether.

Lots of EV related news again this week as Rolls-Royce promises that anyone scalping the new electric Spectre will be banned for life from buying a new Roller. At the Goodwood Festival of Speed, Caterham which has continued to build variants of the Lotus 7 for 50 years, drops an electric sports car and Hyundai unveiled the Ioniq 5 N with the sound and shift feel of the Elantra N. Meanwhile, here in the US, after more than two years of not being able to buy most EVs without huge markups, they are suddenly piling up on dealer lots with discounts. Another EV that will be easier to get and afford is the Kia EV9 which will be built in Georgia from mid-2024. Some residents of a rural Michigan town don't want the 2,500 jobs coming with a new Ford battery plant. Supplier Magna showed off a bunch of their tech this week including an electric Gladiator. While Chevrolet is about to launch a bunch of new EVs, they also have a new gas powered Traverse coming early in 2024.

Links

Rolls-Royce to ban scalpers for life

Battery plant NIMBY

Caterham Project V

2024 Chevrolet Traverse

EV discounts

Hyundai Ioniq 5 N

Kia EV9 comes to America

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No More Grey Jul 11, 2023

This week Robbie came to the realization that the Jeep Grand Cherokee L is a great vehicle for anyone with a Daft Punk cover band. Nicole drove a pair of Nissan Zs back to back with automatic and manual transmissions and Sam spent the week with the highest end Volkswagen Taos.

In the news, Nicole got to sample Buick's new entry level model, the Envista and wonders what all the hubub is about with the engine. Fiat is doing what all automakers are doing and will no longer produce grey cars, opting for color instead. The VW ID Buzz debuted in Austin in automated driving form. The Ford Maverick is no longer our cheap vehicle of choice, because Ford has chosen to absorb the markups that dealers have been charging. Mercedes-Benz is going with NACS and Sam defends automakers that are going with the Tesla connector. We also say so long to designer Peter Horbury and answer some more listener questions.

Links

Buick Envista

No more grey Fiats

VW launches ID Buzz AV in Austin

No more standard hybrid for Maverick

Mercedes chooses NACS

In support of switching to NACS

RIP Peter Horbury

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Comfy Seats Jul 01, 2023

1It's been a busy week. Sam had both the Dodge Hornet GT+ and the Hyundai Santa Fe plug-in hybrid. Robbie finally gets to talk about the driving the Kia EV9 and also the Seltos. He also discusses an unfortunate crash while going to pickup guitar picks. Nicole drove to Accord to drive the Accord.

In the news, Nicole and Sam both drove the refreshed 2024 Jeep Wrangler. Volvo and Polestar announced that both brands would switch to the NACS charging connector and SAE will integrate the connector into its industry standard. Lordstown Motors finally goes bankrupt and sues Foxconn. Ford defeated Lordstown in the electric pickup race, but is losing customer orders due to price hikes. GM is matching and exceeding Ford's bidirectional charging offerings with Ultium Home. Italian lawmakers are wisely trying to ban inexperienced drivers from overpowered cars.

Links

2024 Jeep Wrangler first drive

SAE to adopt NACS standard

Lordstown chapter 11

Ford losing Lightning customers with price hikes

GM Ultium Home products

Italian Lawmakers want to ban young drivers from cars with more than 95 hp

Malibu vs Bel Air

Roman's Hummer breaks down in Moab

Volvo goes NACS

Polestar NACS

Robbie's first drive in the Kia EV9

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It Hears Me Jun 26, 2023

Robbie is back from Germany and Korea but he can't talk about that stuff yet. Nicole drives the Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV and Sam has better luck with the voice interface on the 2023 Lexus RX500h.

Stellantis has launched a new compact pickup called the Ram Rampage in Brazil and while they haven't yet announced anything, it could be coming to America. The Kia Stinger has sadly left us too early, but an electric replacement may be on the way. As Rivian joins GM and Ford in switching from CCS to NACS charging connectors, Texas and Washington are mandating that any publicly funded chargers include the Tesla-developed connector. Rivian also bought and is integrating A Better Route Planner and Sam gets a first opportunity to drive the Chevrolet Silverado EV work truck.

Links

Ram Rampage

Kia Stinger EV replacement

Texas to mandate NACS charge connectors

Rivian acquires ABRP

Chevrolet Silverado EV W/T preview

Grumpy Roman

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Tremors Big and Small Jun 21, 2023

Robbie is on his way to Korea for a secret mission so it's just Nicole and Sam this week. Nicole drove the Genesis G80 Electrified and the "last call" Dodge Charger Swinger. Sam had the Ford Maverick Tremor.

In the news, Sam and Nicole both drove the new 2024 Ford Super Duty pickups including towing some huge trailers. Ford also announced they are building a special Ford Ranger to take on the Dakar Rally starting in 2024. Mercedes-Benz unveiled a new electric concept called Vision One-Eleven with axial flux motors and will start testing ChatGPT in its voice system. Finally, a battle is brewing over Massachusett's new right to repair law with NHTSA telling automakers they don't have to comply and senators pushing back against the agency. We also answer some listener questions.

Links

Nio scraps free battery swaps

Mercedes Vision One-Eleven

Mercedes debuts ChatGPT

NHTSA overules Mass right to repair law

NHTSA is a failing agency

Ford Ranger T1+ goes to Dakar

Senators push back against NHTSA on right to repair

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Yanking the Steering Wheel Jun 11, 2023

Sam spent the past week testing out the new version of BlueCruise in the 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E and was pleasantly surprised at the energy efficiency. Nicole had both the Toyota Sequioa TRD Pro and Lincoln Corsair PHEV. Robbie drove the new Chevrolet Colorado and the Lamborghini Huracan Tecnica.

Nicole and Sam took a quick trip to Austin to see the unveiling of the 2024 Lexus TX and GX SUVs. After the Lexus show, they went for a ride in a Cruise robotaxi and they have thoughts. Meanwhile in Milan, Volvo unveiled its new inexpensive EV, the EX30. Tesla got another win with GM announcing its switch to the North American Charging standard. On the other hand, Tesla drivers that buy their insurance from the automaker will pay more if they use Autopilot.

Links

Tesla Insurance charges more for Autopilot

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Buzz Me Jun 06, 2023

In the garage this week, Nicole has been driving two very different vehicles from the Hyundai Motor Group stable, the new Genesis G90 and refreshed Kia Telluride. Robbie has car for dog lovers, the Subaru Crosstrek and Sam was pleasantly surprised by what the Mitsubishi Outlander plug-in hybrid could do with a fully charged battery.

In the news, VW revealed the longer 3 row ID Buzz that's coming to America. Sam spent some time at the track with Honda getting a ride in an Indycar-powered hybrid CR-V, sampling electric racing go-karts and testing the LogR app with the new Civic Type-R. Lordstown's electric pickup doesn't have much Endurance and Tesla claims the cheapest Model 3 now qualifies for tax credits. Finally Ford changes its pricing strategy for Blue Cruise. We also answer listener questions

Links

Honda electric racing carts

Honda CR-V hybrid racer

Honda LogR 2.0 app

VW ID Buzz 3-row

Ford BlueCruise subscriptions

Lordstown Endurance only has 174 mile range

Tesla Model 3 $7500 tax credit

Honda racing lawnmower

Hagerty 1990 Mazda Miata valuation

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Live From the Kona Coast May 30, 2023

We're all back together for a brand new show after a week away for some vacation time. We've got lots of rides to discuss this week. Nicole had the Mercedes-AMG G63 and Genesis GV70 Electrified. Since we last had him on the show, Robbie drove the Ford Expedition to Tahoe for a band gig, the BMW i7 and the new Mercedes-Benz GLC. Sam reviews the Chevrolet Equinox that he and his wife had as a rental in Hawaii.

Sam and Nicole were both in Hawaii to drive the new Toyota Grand Highlander and get a first look at the all-new Tacoma midsize pickup including the Trailhunter overlanding version. BMW has unveiled the next-generation 5 series sedan including the electric i5. The 5 series is also the first car to get support for Airconsole game streaming. Ford has decided that it can't rely on the likes of Electrify America to provide a good charging experience for its EV customers and has done a deal with Tesla to support Superchargers in the FordPass app as well as using the Tesla charging connector on the next batch of EVs it launches. We also answer listener questions.

If you like listening to podcasts in Youtube, you're in luck, Wheel Bearings is now available there too at https://www.youtube.com/@WheelBearingsCast

Links

BMW i7

Toyota Grand Highlander first drive

2024 Toyota Tacoma

Ford goes for Tesla

2024 BMW 5 Series

Airconsole gaming in the new 5 series

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New York Conversations May 21, 2023

Sam and his wife are on a beach somewhere in the middle of the Pacific this week so we're giving Robbie and Nicole the week off too. Instead of news we've got interviews that we recorded at the 2023 New York Auto Show. Most of these interviews have already been published for our patrons, but there are a couple that haven't been heard yet. First up is Tom Somerville, marketing manager for Ford electric enthusiast vehicles. Then we have Hyundai CMO Angela Zepeda. Next up are Christian Meunier, global CEO of Jeep and Jim Morrison head of Jeep North America. Mike Koval, CEO of Ram trucks talks about the Ram 1500 REV and midsize trucks. Olabisi Boyle, VP product planning and mobility strategy talks about Hyundai and finally we have Mike Wilde, director of product planning and pricing at Kia America.

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It's Very, Very Bad May 14, 2023

Robbie couldn't make it this week so it's just Nicole and Sam. Nicole has been driving the Rivian R1S and the Toyota Rav4, two very different SUVs. Sam had an SUV that sort of fits in the venn diagram of the previous two, with a gas engine and serious off-roadability, the Ford Bronco Heritage edition.

Nicole has also recently done a couple of first drive programs with very different outcomes. The new 2023 GMC Canyon was really, really good. When Nicole had her first exposure to the Vinfast VF8 last September, she recommended it could use another 6 months of development. Well, the on-sale date was pushed back almost six months with the first examples going to customers in California recently. Unfortunately, the extra time apparently wasn't put to good use and it's the first vehicle in a long time that can't be recommended to anyone. Meanwhile Volvo and Polestar knew they have software issues to addres and have pushed back the launch of the EX90 and Polestar 3 to the first half of 2024. That new Canyon is going to have a bunch of fresh competition from the new Ford Ranger and the upcoming Toyota Tacoma. Finally, Honda may launch an all-new sports car this year to celebrate its 75th anniversary.

Links

2023 GMC Canyon

2024 Ford Ranger and Raptor

Vinfast off to a bad start (You Guys IT IS SO BAD -NW)

Honda may launch new sports car in 2023

Polestar 3//Volvo EX90 delayed to 2024

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One And A Half May 08, 2023

This week, Robbie is playing at a wedding in Yosemite with one of his bands, so friend of the show Tanya Gazdik is back with a plethora of Stellantis vehicles. Among the Ram Rebel 1500, Chrysler Pacifica PHEV and Jeep Grand Wagoneer L you might be surprised to learn which is her favorite. Nicole has been driving the Subaru Impreza RS and Sam had the BMW X7 M60i.

Nicole and Tanya both drove the new Subaru Crosstrek in some Woodstock mud, but without any classic rock bands. Nicole also drove the new second-generation Chevrolet Trax. There's an all-new second-generation Mini EV coming in a few months with lots more range and performance. If you prefer the classic mini Mini, you too can go electric thanks to Electrogenic. Back in the early 1990s, a decade before Martin Eberhard and Marc Tarpenning conceived of the Tesla Roadster (that other guy didn't come along until a year later with the money to make it happen), a bunch of Motorola engineers built an electric Corvette. Lordstown Motors may finally be reaching the end of the road unless someone steps up with a bunch of money (unlikely). Finally, we talk about a bunch of Honda engineers driving one and a half NSXs in the One Lap of America.

Links

Electric Corvette from 1994

2024 Chevy Trax

Electrogenic Classic Mini EV conversion kit

Electrogenic

Acura NSX trailer

Next-gen Mini E coming soon

End of the line for Lordstown?

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The Essential Part Not Included Apr 30, 2023

This week Robbie tells us about sleeping in and driving the new BMW XM. Nicole spends a week with the Mazda CX-90 and Sam drives the BMW i4 M50 and Maserati Grecale Modena.

Lots of news including the NEVs Emily GT, an electric successor to Saab that didn't make it but is for sale. The dumb yoke is now a $250 extra cost option on the Tesla Model 3. Toyota buyers trade in for EVs at Carmax and older women are more skeptical of EVs. Tesla has great uptime on superchargers. The Chevy Bolt is going away and the Hyundai Ioniq Essential misses some essentials. Sam also has an interview with Lori Wittman, president of retail solutions at Cox Automotive from the New York Auto Show.

Links

NEVS Emily for sale

$250 for Tesla yoke

Toyota top trade-in brand for EVs

Are women more skeptical of EVs

Tesla claims 99% uptime for Superchargers, Model 3 TCO higher than corolla

Don't buy an Ioniq 5 Essential

The end of the Chevy Bolt

Robbie's BMW XM drive

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Oh That Grille! Apr 24, 2023

This week in the garage, Robbie is wondering why anyone would buy the Ford Bronco Everglades and Nicole wonders who uses the third row of the Toyota Highlander. Nicole also drove the Honda CR-V hybrid while Sam had the Cadillac CT4 with Super Cruise. Sam also got a first taste this week of the Hyundai Ioniq 6.

In the news, we've got more new stuff from the Shanghai motor show including the gorgeous MG Cyberster and ultimate Lexus for those who appreciate the spindle grille, the LM minivan. Volkswagen showed off the ID.7 sans color changing camoflague and Hyundai is partnering with Itselectric on new curbside chargers while the IRS published the latest update to the list of which EVs are eligible for clean vehicle credits. We wrap up with a conversation with Maserati America's head Bill Peffer

Links

MG Cyberster

Hyundai curbside charging

VW ID.7

Lexus LM

Clean vehicle credits

Upsidedown Camaro LeMons racer

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Champagne Mode Apr 18, 2023

This week in the garage Nicole does the mom thing with the Toyota Sienna AWD, Robbie does the dog thing with the new Subaru Imprezza and Sam does the hands-off thing with the Nissan Ariya.

In the news, we've got a bunch of vehicles all debuting between recording time and the embargos lifting. Lincoln has an all-new Nautilus midsize crossover with hybrid power and all the screen space. Buick has a new entry level crossover called the Envista. Polestar has a sporty new crossover without a back window in the 4. Regular old cupholders just wouldn't do for champagne flutes so Mercedes-Maybach goes electric with its variant of the EQS SUV and its special champagne flute holders. We also have an interview with Stellantis chief design officer Ralph Gilles.

Links

2024 Lincoln Nautilus

Polestar 4

Ford BlueCruise Subscriptions

GM Tow Dolly Patent

Mercedes-Maybach EQS SUV

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Inaccessible Chargers Apr 09, 2023

This week Nicole has been using the big Ford Expedition to haul away an old bedroom set. Robbie drove the new Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV in Portugal and Sam and Nicole both had first drives in new Toyotas, the Prius Prime and Corolla Cross Hybrid.

Nicole and Sam both went to New York for the Auto Show where they saw the new Hyundai Kona and Kia EV9. Stellantis also publicly showed its upcoming electric pickup, the Ram 1500 REV and a refresh of the Jeep Wrangler. Tesla employees have been misappropriating videos uploaded from vehicles for AI training and Robbie saw Cruise and Waymo robotaxis having a disagreement in San Francisco. We also answer some listener questions and go on a collective rant about accessibility (or lack thereof) of EV chargers.

Links

2023 Toyota Prius Prime First Drive

Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV first drive

Ram 1500 REV

2024 Jeep Wrangler refresh

Don't Get Naked Around Your Tesla

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Just a Skosh More Apr 03, 2023

This week in the garage we've got the full spectrum of electrification from none to complete. Sam drove the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing, Robbie drove the Kia Sportage Plug-in Hybrid and Nicole had the Hyundai Ioniq 5.

Nicole and Sam also both had the opportunity to drive the new 2024 Mazda CX-90 with both a turbocharged inline-cylinder mild hybrid and a new plug-in hybrid variant. Robbie and Nicole both got seat time in Hyundai's Ioniq 6 electric sedan with a range of up to 361 miles. Finally GM, let the world know that its future EVs would be losing support for smartphone projection including Apple Carplay and Android Auto.

Links

GM Drops Smartphone Projection for EVs

Mazda CX-90 first drive

Robbie's Hyundai Ioniq 6 first drive

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It's Got Sting Mar 26, 2023

This week it's just Nicole and Sam. Nicole had the new 2023 Mitsubishi Outlander Plug-in Hybrid with a third row seat that should just be left folded down. Sam got double booked and had both the Rivian R1S and the Genesis G90 with the e-Supercharger.

In the news, Ford unveiled it's first European electric vehicle for consumers, the new Explorer EV based on the Volkswagen MEB platform but it's a completely different beast to the Explorer Americans get. The next MEB EV from Ford might be called the Capri. Ford also showed off progress on its new BlueOval City manufacturing complex in Tennessee and revealed a few things about the new electric truck to be built there that is called Project T3. Nicole got a chance to sample the new Dodge Hornet in gas turbo and plug-in hybrid variants. Hyundai's design chief says the brand will stick with physical buttons for some most used functions and corporate sibling Kia showed a concept version of the EV5 in China.

Links

Ford Explorer EV

Ford Capri return as EV

Kia EV5 concept

Ford BlueOval City

Hyundai commits to buttons

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Just Bring It To America Mar 19, 2023

This week another low profile tire was sacrificed to the pothole gods as Robbie's Mercedes-AMG EQE had to go home on a flatbed. Sam drove both the Toyota Sequioa i-Force Max Capstone and the Kia Niro EV while Nicole had the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4XE Summit Reserve.

In the news, we've seen more of the Kia EV9 ahead of the full public reveal at the New York Auto Show. All three members of the crew got to the drive the Nissan Ariya E-4ORCE in Sonoma. Sam rode around San Francisco in a driverless Jaguar and VW showed off the ID.2all concept which we all want to see on American roads but we probably won't get.

Links

Kia EV9

Nissan Ariya E-Force first drive

VW ID.2all Concept

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It's Ridiculous Mar 11, 2023

testNicole is back from the mouse house this week and driving the Mazda CX-50. Robbie had the Kia EV6 GT and Sam had a very different electric vehicle, the equally fast and porky GMC Hummer EV Edition 1.

In the news, noted Wall St analyst and Tesla promoter Adam Jonas says the Cybertruck, if and when it ever arrives probably isn't going to take major market share away from the F-150, Silverado, Sierra and Ram. Meanwhile there is another Tesla Autopilot related death and we remind you that there are NO self-driving cars available for sale from any automaker, so keep your eyes on the road. Elon Musk apparently wants to create a company town in Texas.

GM has revealed some details of the sensor suite on its upcoming Ultra Cruise system that will enable hand-off but eyes-on driving on more than 2 million miles of roads. Sam had a chance to play around with the new Unreal Engine powered infotainment system in the 2024 Ford Mustang and wonders if these fancy graphics provide any actual benefit beyond eye candy. Nissan Ariya production is lagging about 30% behind schedule and Robbie tries charging a BMW iX at a Tesla Supercharger.

Links

Nissan Ariya production below schedule

Will the Cybertruck be a dud?

More details on Ultra Cruise

2024 Mustang Infotainment

Another Tesla driver dies crashing

Elon Musk reportedly wants to be his employees' landlord

charging BMW iX at a supercharger

Kia EV6 GT review

Winter driving in the Ford F-150 Lightning

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Just Get The XL Mar 05, 2023

Nicole is out this week but we have Tanya Gazdik from Media Post sitting in with Robbie and Sam. Tanya has been driving the Toyota Corolla hatchback, while Sam finally discusses the Kia Soul he forgot to review last week along with the Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid. Robbie had the Ford Maverick Lariat Tremor and has thoughts.

In the news, Ford creates a new subsidiary to develop hands-free driving assist systems from the remnants of Argo AI. The VW ID3 gets a mid-cycle refresh and VW Group is going to build a new factory in South Carolina to produce Scout electric trucks and SUVs. Tesla has finally started opening up its Superchargers to non-Tesla vehicles and there have been lots of unusual features in cars over the years. Finally, Sam talks with Chrysler brand chief Chris Feuell.

Links

VW ID3 refresh

Latitude AI

Charging non-Teslas at Superchargers - Marques

Charging non-Teslas at Superchargers - Tom

New Scout factory

Strangest car features

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Blue Cruise or Blues Clues? Mar 02, 2023

This week Roberto drives the new BMW 760 and Nicole has the Ford F-150 Lightning. Sam was going to talk about the Kia Soul GT-Line but completely spaced so we'll get to it next week.

In the news, Mercedes-Benz talked about their new operating system and announced they will include Luminar lidar on future vehicles from 2025. Christian von Koenigsegg picks the NA Miata, Vinfast cuts prices and promises to start deliveries. GM patents a self-cleaning touchscreen and updates the Cadillac XT4 with the screen from the Lyriq. And we discuss using EVs when there's no electricity. In the questions we discuss the problem of automakers offering free DC fast charging.

Links

Christian von Koenigsegg chooses the NA Miata

GM Self-cleaning touchscreen

Mercedes-Benz OS

Reduced Vinfast pricing

2024 Cadillac XT4 refresh

EVs when there's no power

Free EV Charging sucks

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Smooshed Cars and Smacked Snow Banks Feb 19, 2023

This week, Sam and Robbie unknowningly found themselves crossing paths at the same place in Montana for a winter driving program with Infiniti and Bridgestone. They got to try out the latest Blizzak winter tires on the QX60 and other Infiniti models through a variety of maneuvers. Sam also drove the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum and Nicole drove the Jeep Grand Wagoneer L.

Ford has had to stop production and shipments of F-150 Lightnings due to a battery fire at the factory. Tesla agrees to recall its full self-driving beta software to address issues identified by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Hyundai and Kia develop a fix to address easy to steal cars and we discuss where the charge port should go on EVs before finishing with some listener questions. Sam also has a conversation with Iris Ocasio, consumer product strategy manager at Bridgestone.

Join the Wheel Bearings Discord https://discord.gg/yXZhcQ2Z

Links

Lightning battery problems

Tesla FSD recall

Tesla recall notice

Hyundai/Kia theft recall

Where should EV charging ports go

Bridgestone Winter Driving School

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Bait and Switch Feb 12, 2023

It was Chicago Auto Show week and we've got a bunch of news and interviews. But first, in the garage, Sam has been driving the 2023 Kia Telluride SX-Prestige X-Pro V6 AWD, the refreshed and more off-roady version of Kia's big crossover. Nicole had Honda's version of the same idea with the new Pilot Trailsport.

In Chicago we saw Toyota take the wraps off an even larger 3-row crossover, the Grand Highlander with more third-row and cargo room and an option Hybrid Max powertrain, but no rugged off-road version, yet. Volkswagen refreshed its popular Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport with more grille, bigger screens and a new turbo 4-cylinder. Subaru is evolving its CrossTrek with a new but incrementally changed look. Jeep is celebrating 20 years of Rubicon with price new limited edition Wranglers and Ram has shown us the 1500 REV electric pickup that unfortunately looks more like the current gas truck than the flashy Revolution concept we saw at CES. We also have interviews with Jeep's Jim Morrison and Hyundai's Kristin Gomez.

Join the Wheel Bearings Discord https://discord.gg/yqVAdFNE

Links

Toyota Grand Highlander

2024 VW Atlas/Cross Sport

2024 Subaru Crosstrek

Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 20th anniversary

Hyundai Evolve+

Ram 1500 REV

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Eyes On The Road Feb 05, 2023

This week we have special guest Kelly Funkhouser, director of automotive technology at Consumer Reports to explain how they conducted their recent test of advanced driver assist systems. Some of the assumptions Sam made about what they actually evaluated were wrong and the results make a lot more sense now.

In the garage, Nicole has been driving the 2023 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy AWD while Sam got a Cadillact CT4-V Blackwing with a manual gearbox, just ahead of an eight-inch snowfall. Fortunately the Cadillac was on winter tires and did just fine.

In the news, Ford is teaming up to supply hybrid power systems for the 2026 Red Bull Formula 1 cars. The IRS has corrected its weird classifications for electric vehicles eligible for clean vehicle credits. It's trivially easy for thieves to steal older Hyundai and Kia models equipped with a key and they want customers to pay for a fix. Vinfast deliveries in the US have been delayed and we have more on the cost of installing Ford's Intelligent Power Backup plus questions.

Ford teams up with Red Bull for Formula 1

IRS reclassifies a bunch of EVs for clean vehicle credits

IRS rules for used EV credits

Stealing older Hyundais and Kias is easy

Vinfast delays US deliveries

Consumer Reports ADAS testing

More on the cost of installing Ford Intelligent Power Backup

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It Handles Rough Roads Great Jan 31, 2023

Unfortunately Robbie had to miss this week with a migraine, but Nicole has thoughts to share about the Lexus NX 350 F-Sport and Sam had the 2023 Nissan Versa SR which proves that decent, cheap new cars are still available.

In the news Mazda, has revealed the new 2024 CX-90 three-row crossover which will have options of a new inline-six cylinder engine or a plug-in hybrid. Sam also has a conversation with Mazda North America CEO Jeff Guyton. Polestar has done a major mid-cycle update on the 2. Motor Trend has a long-term F-150 Lightning and one of its writers got a quote for installation of the home power backup system.

Links

2024 Polestar 2

2024 Mazda CX-90

How Much for the installation?

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Faking It Jan 22, 2023

This week it's most just Robbie and Sam. Sam drives the 2023 Cadillac CT5 AWD Premium Luxury and talks about the latest Super Cruise. Nicole also calls in from an Electrify America station in Florida with her driving partner Eileen Falkenberg-Hull to give us the low down on their Disney Land to Disney World trek in the Kia EV6.

In the news, GM is considering building a small electric pickup truck and we compare car sizes over time. Car loans are getting longer and shockingly Tesla faked the 2016 "Paint It Black" full self-driving demo video. We also answer listener questions. Send in your questions to feedback at wheelbearings dot media or even send us a link to audio of your question and we might include it in the show.

Links

84 month loans

Paint it black video was faked

GM looking at small electric pickup

Carsized

nissan gobi

Cadillac CT5 Super Cruise video

Eileen on Newsweek

Tesla Paint it Black video

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All-Season High-Voltage Corvette Jan 17, 2023

The car Robbie was supposed to drive this week was damaged before it got to his driveway so we just have Nicole in the Mazda3 Turbo AWD and Sam with the Ram 1500 Rebel V8. One of these was slight less fuel efficient than the other.

In the news, a Swedish study shows again why it's better to have buttons than touchscreens in cars. Nicole popped into Detroit this week to help hand out the North American Car Truck and Utility of the Year awards. Mazda finally brings back the rotary as a range extender for the MX-30, but for now only Europeans get it. Toyota has built up an old AE86 that burns hydrogen. Mercedes-Benz is already considering getting rid of dedicated EV badging.

Chevrolet is finally bringing the long-rumored Corvette hybrid as the 2024 E-Ray with electric drive on the front axle for all wheel drive. We also have an interview with Microsoft general manager of automotive Sanjay Ravi.

Links

Buttons are better than screens

Mazda MX-30 Rotary PHEV

Toyota Hydrogen AE86

2024 Corvette E-Ray

Ditching special EV badges

NACTOY

Alternative Fuels Data Center

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Surviving CES Jan 08, 2023

Sam survived his return to CES after three years away, but before discussing what was there, he gives his thoughts on the Jeep Wagoneer L with the new Hurricane 510 engine. Nicole survived some winter weather with the Mercedes-AMG EQS and Robbie rented a Kia Sorento for a trip to the woods with his wife and dogs.

At CES, Stellantis showed the Ram Revolution concept which is a preview of the upcoming Ram 1500 EV. While at CES, Sam talked with Mike Koval, head of the Ram brand. VW unveiled a camoflagued version of the upcoming ID7 electric sedan. BMW showed the i Vision Dee covered in color E Ink and Sony Honda Mobility announced that its upcoming EVs would be branded as Afeela.

Links

Winter tire markings

BMW i Vision Dee

BMW E Ink color changing

Ram Revolution Concept

Ram Charger

Volkswagen ID7

Afeela

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Making Resolutions Dec 30, 2022

As we pull the plug on 2022, it's an all-electric week in the garage as the temperatures drop. Robbie has the new Lucid Air Touring, while Nicole has some more followup on the Mercedes-Benz EQB. Sam tried out the Hyundai Ioniq 5 in frigid temperatures and also tested the new Electrify America fast chargers.

In the news, the IRS gives EV buyers in early 2023 a bonus by making all North American built EVs eligible for the full $7500 tax break until it finalizes new battery content rules. In California, a new law prohibits automakers from selling a car as self driving unless it can operate without human supervision. Ram files for a trademark that may hint at the range extended version of its electric pickup truck. We have a reminder to double check the actual payload capacity of your vehicle and don't overload it and the last few listener questions of the year are answered.

Send in your questions to feedback@wheelbearings.media or post them to @WhlBrngsCast@federated.press on Mastodon.

Links

IRS clean vehicle credit eligibility

California bans sales of full self-driving that isn't

Ram files for REV trademark

Don't overload your truck

Nicole on the Walk Around podcast

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Great Googly Moogly Dec 23, 2022

Just in time for a break from the holiday festivities, we've got lots of automotive conversation. Robbie and Nicole have both been driving Mercedes-Benz electric SUVs, the EQS SUV and EQB respectively. Meanwhile, Sam has his favorite compact crossover, the Mazda CX-5 Carbon Edition.

Italian design house Zagato is partnering with Alfa Romeo again for another limited edition coupe, this time based on the Giulia. AC Cars is still kicking and planning to launch a Cobra GT in 2023 with a Ford Coyote V8 and and more length and wheelbase than before. Hyundai has an all-new and larger second-generation Kona coming in 2023 and the team discuss the cars they drove in 2022 that they want to drive and those they want to own before we finish with a couple of listener questions.

Links

Alfa Romeo Giulia SWB Zagato

AC Cobra GT Roadster

2024 Hyundai Kona

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Just Get A Maverick Dec 18, 2022

Nicole is back from her European River cruise and she and Robbie have been been driving the Kia EV6 GT. Sam had the Toyota Tundra i-Force Max Capstone, which is much improved except for fuel economy.

During a Ford holiday reception recently Jim Farley posed the question of who is the Edsel for Tesla and we discuss. Apple still seems to want to make cars eventually, should they just buy Lucid instead? The new Mazda CX-90 is getting a plug-in hybrid, Redwood Materials is building a $3.5B battery recycling plant in South Carolina. Is the Vinfast VF8 worth the price and Ford is raising Lightning prices again. We answer more questions. Send yours to feedback@wheelbearings.media

Links

Redwood Materials new battery recycling plant

Mazda CX-90 inline-6 plug-in hybrid

Ford raising Lightning prices again

Vinfast arrives in America

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Not Full Self-Driving Dec 11, 2022

This week, Nicole is still in Europe with her husband so the boys are at it again. Robbie went to Las Vegas to drive the McLaren Artura and Sam also had a vehicle with four wheels and a steering wheel, the Toyota Rav4 Adventure.

Sam also got to try out the Tesla Full Self-Driving beta and found it still has a long way to go before you stop holding the wheel and watching the road. Apple appears to delayed its car program again and GM is working with dealers to put 40,000 EV chargers in underserved communities. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety ran tests to see if its crash test facility could handle new heavier EVs and Polestar and Mercedes-Benz are offering power-upgrades for a price.

Links

McLaren Artura first drive

GM Dealer Community Charging Program

Apple Car Delayed

IIHS tests heavy EVs

Polestar and Mercedes-Benz offer EV Power upgrades

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Off-Road Supercars Dec 06, 2022

It's a shorter show this week as Nicole is vacationing with her hubby in Europe and Robbie had to run off early for a dinner with McLaren. Sam drove the Genesis GV60 Performance this week and discovered that Electrify America ripped out the nearby fast chargers to replace them with a new, hopefully more reliable design.

In the news, Honda is planning to launch hands-free driver assist systems globally by the end of the decade and start building a plug-in hybrid fuel cell CR-V in Ohio in 2024. Both Porsche and Lamborghini have revealed limited production high-riding, rally inspired supercars and Sam answers listener questions.

Links

Honda to launch L3 systems globally by 2030

off-road lamborghini huracan and porsche 911 dakar

Honda to produce PHEV fuel cell CR-V from 2024 in ohio

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Vinfast has Landed Nov 29, 2022

We've got a full slate of plug-in crossovers in the garage this week as Nicole tries out the Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid, Sam has the Lexus NX450h+ F Sport All Wheel Drive and Robbie is all electric in the surprising Kia Niro EV.

In the news, despite our earlier skepticism, the first 999 Vinfast VF8s have landed at the dock in California. Hopefully we'll get to try it out soon to see if it is actually ready for prime time. Honda has launched an all new Pilot 3-row crossover with a more rugged look, but is it actually more capable? Carvana, home of the used car vending machine, may be running out of road and while Ford doesn't offer an official camp kitchen for the F-150 Lightning, that doesn't mean you can't cook in one. Finally, Tesla opens up the FSD beta to everyone, no matter how bad your safety score, because they need to recognize all the deferred revenue before the end of the year. We also answer questions.

Links

Cooking in the F-150 Lightning Frunk

Vinfast VF8s land in California

Carvana not doing so well

2023 Honda Pilot

Tesla FSD Beta open to all

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More Convertibles Please Nov 21, 2022

We've got a full team this week as Robbie shares his thoughts on the updated Mercedes-Benz Sprinter with a four-cylinder diesel and all-wheel-drive. Nicole discusses the aged Toyota Tacoma and Sam drives the Mazda CX-50 and the Rolls-Royce Ghost Black Badge.

The LA Auto Show took place last week and Toyota revealed an all-new fifth generation Prius and Prius Prime. Genesis held an event in Malibu to reveal its Genesis X electric convertible concept. Fiat is bringing the 500e back to North America and brand chief Larry Dominique explains that Stellantis will experiment with it. By 2025, British EV drivers will have to pay a vehicle excise tax and after promising to open its Superchargers to other brands, Tesla says, just adopt our charging connector instead. We also answer some questions. Send in your own questions feedback@wheelbearings.media

Links

North American Charging Standard?

UK EV excise tax from 2025

Fiat 500e is coming back to America

Genesis X concept

2023 Toyota Prius

2023 Toyota Prius Prime

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Improving the User Experience Nov 17, 2022

It's another Robbie and Sam episode as Nicole is now in LA doing her World Car of the Year duty. Roberto got to drive the new Nissan Z and the Toyota GR Corolla. Sam and Robbie both discuss the updated user experience software in the Lucid Air and the new third generation Formula E cars.

Robbie made a quick trip to Italy to drive the Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo and ride along in the electric Cayman GT4 prototype. Apparently someone still thinks there is a chance that Faraday Future will get its FF91 into production and has agreed to loan the startup another $350 million.

Links

Cheaper Lucids

Lucid Air UX 2.0

Half of Porsches to be electrified

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Off to the Ocean Nov 14, 2022

As Sam and Nicole got together to record this episode, Robbie was in LA driving vehicles for World Car of the Year. Nicole had a bunch of reviews to share since her last appearance including the Hyundai Kona EV, Kia Niro as a plug-in hybrid and an EV and a first drive of the new Fisker Ocean. Sam drove the Volvo XC60 Recharge and tried out some e-bikes at the Electrify Expo in Austin.

In the news, Volvo unwrapped the new EX90 electric SUV that goes into production next summer. Honda has reworked the 2023 Accord of which they expect half to be hybrid. The entry price for the 2023 Kia EV6 goes up by over $7,000 as the base standard range model is discontinued and Audi refreshes the original e-tron with more range and rebadges it as the Q8 e-tron.

Links

Volvo EX90

2023 Honda Accord

Kia EV6 price increase

2024 Audi Q8 E-Tron

Electrify Expo

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Creeping Featuritis Nov 06, 2022

Nicole is travelling again so it's just the boys this week. Robbie returns from a trip to Japan to drive the Rivian R1S while Sam spends time in between trips with the Polestar 2 Performance package.

This week Sam attended the BMW test fest where he got to drive the new 2023 BMW 7 series including the electric i7. In Japan, Robbie visited Honda and learned more about its work on solid state batteries while Mini announced that it would open a manual driving school at the BMW Performance driving center in Thermal, CA. We also

Links

2023 BMW 7 series first drive

Mini Manual Driving School

Honda Solid State Batteries

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Top Novice Oct 29, 2022

Nicole and Sam are back after a week off where everyone was travelling. Robbie is still in Japan so Nicole shares here adventure driving in the Mille Miglia warm-up where she and co-pilot Eilleen Falkenburg-Hull came in second overall in the modern vehicle class and first among novices. Upon returning home, Nicole got to spend quality time with the new Nissan Z. Meanwhile, between trips, Sam got to drive the Volkswagen Jetta GLI Autobahn. Sam and Nicole also share their impressions of the new 2023 Toyota Crown.

In the news, BMW announced a $1.7B investment in its Spartanburg SC factory to build EVs, GMC revealed the Sierra Denali EV Edition1 and Ford brought us the refreshed 2023 Escape. Ford and VW are pulling the plug on Argo AI, the company that was developing automated vehicles for them, and Ubers with human drivers will make fewer left turns in the future. Finally, Sam got to chat with Stephan Winkelmann, the CEO of Lamborghini about the where the iconic Italian brand is going in the age of electrification.

Links

How Autumn Weather Contributes to Your Car’s Downfall

Argo AI closing up shop

No left turns for Uber

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Sony Software In Your Car? Oct 16, 2022

This week Robbie takes his turn in the Ford Bronco Raptor while Sam has the Expedition Timberline. Nicole drives the Honda HR-V up to Vermont to drive the Land Rover Defender Trophy Edition.

In the news Honda announces a big investment in electrification in Ohio and that its joint venture with Sony will produce new EVs from 2026. Toyota has moved from Amazon to Google Cloud AI to power its voice services and Polestar has revealed the 3 crossover in full. We also answer listener questions.

Links

Sony Vision S-02

Honda-Sony EV coming in 2026

Electrify America Update

Toyota drops Amazon for Google

Polestar 3

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Go Anywhere, But You Might Not Get Out Oct 12, 2022

This week Sam learns the limits of "all-terrain" tires as he goes off-roading with the Ford Bronco Raptor. Nicole shares first impressions of Nissan's new Ariya electric crossover and Robbie tests the Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV.

Nicole and Sam both got to try out the Jeep Wagoneer L and Grand Wagoneer L with Stellantis' new Hurricane twin-turbo inline-six cylinder engine. They also had a conversation with Jeep North America boss Jim Morrison. Chevrolet is launching a second generation Trax entry-level crossover that is both larger and cheaper than before. Motional has a 10-year deal to operate its robotaxis on the Uber network in multiple markets and the TFL Trucks Hummer has been fixed.

Links

2024 Chevrolet Trax

TFL Trucks Hummer EV followup

Motional and Uber 10 year deal

Ford Bronco Raptor review

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Big Enough For A Drum Kit Oct 08, 2022

This week Sam and Robbie are both driving BMW i4s, but different varieties. Sam had the base eDrive40 for a run to Chicago, while Robbie got an M50. Since the last recording session Nicole had both the Subaru BRZ and the Genesis GV60 Performance.

In the news, Ford has revealed a redesigned version of the big Super Duty pickups with lots of new and borrowed tech. Honda has provided a look at the upcoming Prologue electric crossover that will be built by GM. TFL Trucks has a failure with their new GMC Hummer and Volvo has started dropping information about the new EX90 electric replacement for the XC90.

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Links

2023 Ford Super Duty first look

Honda Prologue reveal

Hummer EV failure for TFL Truck

Volvo EX90 preview

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Give It 6 More Months Sep 25, 2022

This week Robbie is missing, but Nicole and Sam managed to record a live episode from a hotel room (sorry about the room echo) in Bozeman, Montana with special guest Jordan Golson. We're all here to drive the new Jeep Wagoneer L and Grand Wagoneer L but we'll talk about those on an upcoming episode. Jordan and Nicole both got to drive the new Range Rover Sport in Spain a couple of weeks ago and share some thoughts on the plug-in hybrid with 50 miles of electric range. Sam got to spend a week with another plug-in hybrid SUV, the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4XE and got some really impressive fuel economy.

Nicole and Jordan came to Montana directly from Vietnam where they visited Vinfast and got to try out the new VF8 electric SUV they are launching here in the US soon. Lots of interesting thoughts on whether this one is fully baked just yet. We finish up with some listener questions including the one that got away.

Links

Vinfast USA

Jordan Golson

Jordan Golson on Youtube

Vinfast VF9 short

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A Taller Prancing Horse Sep 20, 2022

Nicole is travelling somewhere in the Earth's biosphere so it's just the boys this time around. Since this was recorded just a few days after the last episode, Robbie hasn't driven anything but Sam shares his thoughts on the Hyundai Santa Cruz.

In the news, Ferrari has unveiled its first four-door regular production model, the Purosangue (don''t call it an SUV). Honda has significantly the raised the base price on the new CR-V and the final Chrysler 300 won't get a Hellcat. Tesla faces a class action lawsuit over unfullfilled promises about Autopilot and Full Self-Driving. The VW ID Aero will replace the Arteon and the 2023 Lincoln Corsair gets a bigger grille. Finally, Sam has a conversation with Schaeffler Group CTO Jeff Hemphill about some of the technologies the supplier is developing to improve EV efficiency.

Links

Ferrari Purosangue

2023 Honda CR-V pricing jump

Tesla FSD lawsuit

Not enough hellcats for Chrysler 300C

VW ID Aero to replace Arteon by 2024

2023 Lincoln corsair

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Getting Buzzed Sep 17, 2022

Over the past week we've had an assortment of travel and gigs but we're back in the saddle with fresh material. Now that the embargo has lifted, Robbie can finally share his thoughts on driving the VW ID Buzz, while Nicole had the new Kia Sportage. Before heading out to San Francisco, Sam had the Volvo C40 Recharge and while in the Bay area he drove a Chevrolet Bolt EV.

In the news, we've seen a bunch of new upcoming products in the leadup to the return of the much diminished Detroit Auto Show. The week before the show, Jeep started to reveal its 2024 EVs including the all-new Recon and Wagoneer S. Chevrolet also took the wraps off the Equinox EV. The big only big reveal at the show itself was the reworked 2024 Ford Mustang that's coming next summer. The king of designing devices with fewer buttons, Jonny Ive said that cars should have more buttons and less touch. Ram is ending production of the diesel version of the 1500 pickup so order yours now. While in San Francisco, Sam and Robbie both got to tour Cruise headquarters and ride in actual self-driving robotaxis.

Links

2024 Ford Mustang

Jeep Recon and Wagoneer S EVs

Chevrolet Equinox EV

Jonny Ive wants more buttons in cars

No more Ram 1500 diesel

Cruise

VW ID Buzz first drive

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Don't Fake Fires Sep 04, 2022

As summer winds down, we've got lots of cool stuff that we've been driving this week. Nicole had the plug-in hybrid version of the Hyundai Tucson Limited with all-wheel-drive. Roberto has the Chevrolet Bolt EUV and Sam had the Toyota GR86 Premium and the Lucid Air Grand Touring.

There are lots of EV related stories in the news this week starting with using the Ford F-150 Lightning as a generator after a heavy storm whipped through. In another part of the country, a doctor powered a vasectomy with a Rivian R1T. Buick wants to go all electric this decade and it wants dealers that will be fully supportive. Toyota is converting a pair of Japanese engine plants to battery production and expanding plans for a US battery plant. Fuel cells are likely to play an important part in electrifying larger vehicles. German Insurance company AXA messed in trying to demonstrate EV safety.

Links

Buick offers to buy out dealers that don't want to go electric

Toyota converting 2 engine plants to battery production

Toyota nearly triples investment in NC battery plant

Fuel cells still a thing for larger vehicles

German insurer fakes battery fire

Vasectomy via Rivian

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Power is Not Enough Aug 28, 2022

The crew reconvenes to catch up on the Acura Integra, Polestar 2 single motor, Toyota Corolla Cross, Ford F-150 Raptor and Jeep Grand Cherokee 4XE.

Since they haven't spoken since before Woodward Dream Cruise and Monterey Car week, Robbie and Nicole share their impressions of the Dodge Charger Daytona SRT concept. Robbie tells us about the Acura Precision Concept EV and we discuss naming Acura's first EV the ZDX. There was also the Lincoln L100 concept and the Meyers Manx EV. A Swedish study says touchscreens are bad, and we all agree. Lamborghini says it will need more than power to compete in the EV age. An Australian Bank will stop providing financing for ICEs in 2025 and sales of new ICEs are getting banned in 2035.

Links

Dodge Charger Daytona SRT

Acura Precision EV concept

Lincoln L100

Touchscreens are bad

Lamborghini needs more than power

Meyers Manx EV

No loans for Australian ICEs

No new ICEs in California

Acura ZDX review

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An EV With An Exhaust System? Aug 21, 2022

This week Sam is flying solo and he's got interviews with Dodge CEO Tim Kuniskis, Stellantis head of propulsion Micky Bly and Ford Mustang and Shelby marketing and brand manager Jim Owens.

Links

Dodge Charger Daytona SRT concept

Dodge Hornet

Mustang Stampede Sept. 14

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A Really Long Dirt Driveway Aug 15, 2022

This week, Roberto tells us about driving the other trucklet, the 2022 Hyundai Santa Cruz. Nicole drives the Mazda CX-30 and takes a road trip in the Nissan Rogue with its new 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbo and Sam has a blast in the Hyundai Elantra Na.

All three of our intrepid hosts ventured to North Carolina to drive the refreshed Hyundai Palisade on a really long dirt driveway. EV prices are heading up instead of down and you'll be able to chow down on Swedish meatballs and cinamon rolls as Electrify America is coming to the home of the flat pack. Nicole has some thoughts on Cadillac's new model names. Finally Ralph Nader takes aim at Tesla "full self-driving" and we answe a bunch of questions.

Links

Electrify America at Ikea

Ralph Nader aims at Tesla

EV prices going up

Cadillac's new names

Accidental Tech Podcast #495

Accurate Ranging Perception

Luminar ProActive Safety

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How Much For The Paint? Aug 07, 2022

This week Sam went through two vehicles that are basically the same, internal combustion engine, 4 wheels, 4 doors plus a hatch and neat paint jobs, the Toyota Corolla Hatchback and the Maserati Levante Trofeo. One is slightly more expensive than the other. Nicole has been driving Mazda MX-5 RF and Robbie is still foregoing new cars while he catches up on a backlog of reviews

In the news, VW has started US production of the ID.4 with a new cheaper standard model with less range and more screen. VW is also confirmed as the customer for the $4 billion lidar order from Innoviz and GM is doubling the number of roads where Super Cruise can be used. Toyota has just barely started selling the bZ4X and is already considering a buyback. Sam spoke with Hyundai's VP of Product and Mobility Olabisi Boyle and we answer some questions.

Links

2023 VW ID.4

VW orders 8M lidar sensors

GM expands Super Cruise to 400K miles of roads

Toyota might buy back bZ4X

Olabisi Boyle

This or Michigan

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You Are The Kindling Aug 02, 2022

This week Robbie is catching up on a backlog of articles he has to write so he didn't have anything to drive. But Nicole found the Ford Expedition Max to be the perfect mount for getting to a gathering of extended family in the White Mountains. Meanwhile, Sam finally got his hands on the lovely Audi e-Tron GT.

In the news, we catch up on the Cadillac Celestiq that Sam forgot to add to the rundown last week. Chevrolet has revealed the next-generation of its midsize Colorado pickup with only crew cab shortbed configuration and turbo four-cylinder engines. Expanded EV tax incentives are back (maybe depending on what Sen. Sinema decides to do) and GM and Ford continue to try to fight back against customers and dealers flipping and gouging on their most popular models. Among those popular models is likely to be the new Ford Maverick Tremor. We also have a bunch of listener questions.

Links

2023 Chevrolet Colorado

Cadillac Celestiq

New EV incentive deal

GM and Ford fight dealer markups and flippers

Ford Maverick Tremor

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Failure to Charge Jul 25, 2022

We took a week off to recharge but we're back with a packed show. Roberto went to Germany to drive the Mercedes-Benz EQXX concept and the production EQB evs. Sam drove the 2023 Nissan Z and the Ford Mach-E GT Performance Edition. Nicole had the Mercedes-AMG GLB.

In the news, Chevrolet unveiled its Mach-E/Model Y challenger, the 2024 Blazer EV. Scott Keogh is moving over from running VW of North America to establish Scout as an all-EV SUV and truck brand. Mercedes is prepping to launch the its hands-off/eyes-off Drive Pilot assist system in the US in 2023. Toyota is bringing the new Crown to America. Sam finally encounters a major charging fail with Electrify America and Ford is bringing CATL lithium iron phosphate batteries to the Mach-E and Lightning.

Links

2024 Chevrolet Blazer EV

Scott Keogh to lead Scout

Mercedes-Benz Drive Pilot to America

Toyota Crown

Charging Fail

Ford Adopting LFP batteries

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Locked in the Center Jul 12, 2022

In the garage this week, Robbie had the Ford F-150 Lightning XLT with the big battery but he somehow neglected to haul any mulch. Sam had a last minute schedule change that led to substituting the Chevrolet Bolt EUV with Super Cruise. Nicole also had a scheduling hickup that meant she still had the same Nissan Altima from last week.

In the news, while everyone is rolling out EVs as fast they can, Mazda has opted to launch an all-new 3.3-liter inline-six diesel engine for the CX-60 in Europe. We also discuss the challenges of parking in your driveway if live in San Francisco. Ford has filed two new trademarks, Escape Active for an updated version of the compact crossover and Thunder for trucks. Tesla will start opening some of its Supercharger stations in the US to other EV brands by the end of the year. Despite being an EV, using a Hummer EV leads to more CO2 emissions than driving a Chevy Malibu. Finally, a new crowd-sourced website lets car shoppers figure out which dealers have the biggest markups and which are selling at sticker price.

Links

Search for dealer markups

US access to Tesla Superchargers

GMC Hummer EV emits more CO2 than Malibu

Mazda's new diesel

Parking in San Francisco

Ford Escape Active

Ford trademarks Thunder

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Into the Swamp Jul 04, 2022

This week in the garage Sam has been driving the 2023 Kia Sportage hybrid which is now longer and electrified. Nicole has Nissan Altima with AWD and Robbie has just started testing some e-bikes.

Nicole got to do a first drive in the Ford Bronco Everglades through the swamps of Michigan's Drummond Island. Ford will no longer allow customers to buy out their EVs at the end of the lease while Hyundai gives the first official glimpse of the Ioniq 6 electric sedan. At Pikes Peak, Randy Pobst almost ran off the side of the mountain because he couldn't find the windshield defroster control on the touchscreen menu of the Tesla Model S Plaid he was racing and the TFL Truck crew put the Ford F-150 Lightning to the towing test. Finally we answer listener questions and Sam interviews Toyota executive vice president of sales Jack Hollis.

Links

Jack Hollis

TFL Truck tows with the Lightning

Touchscreens and hillclimbs don't mix

Ford won't let EV lessee's buy at the end of the contract

Hyundai Ioniq 6

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Cadillac Sings a New Tune Jun 28, 2022

This week in the garage, Sam drives the Cadillac CT4-V Blackwing (unfortunately with an automatic transmission) and Nicole gets the new Acura Integra (spoiler, Mr Nicole who owned an original Integra back in the day approves).

Unfortunately, a flight cancellation means Nicole didn't make it to Utah to drive the new Cadillac Lyriq, Sam and Robbie did get to try it out. Nicole did however, get to drive the second-generation Honda HR-V. At Goodwood, Polestar demoed the prototype of the 5, their new 884-hp GT sedan and Sam went for a spin in Ford's new simulator.

Links

Polestar 5 prototype

Ford dynamic driving lab

Sam’s take on the Cadillac Lyriq

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Broncos Big and Small Jun 20, 2022

This week, Sam has a comparison of two of the first electric pickup trucks, the Ford F-150 Lightning and Rivian R1T. Roberto, has the Kia Stinger and drives the new Lunar Rover in GM's simulator. Nicole has the Ford Bronco Sport at home and drove the new Bronco Raptor in California.

Cadillac will build its new electric flagship the Celistiq at a facility on its Warren, Mich tech center campus. NHTSA drops the first batch of data on crashes while using assisted and automated driving systems and you'll never guess who had the most crashes. Sony is forming an EV joint venture with Honda. Sam also answers lots of Lightning listener questions.

Links

Sony Honda joint venture

Cadillac Celistiq production

NHTSA ADAS/ADS data dump

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Talking About Pie Jun 13, 2022

In this week's garage, Robbie reveals that he is the last journo to drive the Kia Stinger, Nicole spends time with the Ford Bronco 2-door and Sam has the refreshed edition of the Lincoln Navigator.

Polestar has revealed the first photo of the 3 electric crossover with the full unveiling coming in October. Renders of the new Ford Ranger-based Volkswagen Amarok are out but the truck isn't coming to North America. Honda has a larger Civic-based HR-V coming to the US market. Lightning owners get an adapter to let their trucks charge stranded Teslas. The Biden administration has rules for EV charging companies that want federal dollars. Nicole has driven the Cadillac Escalade-V and Sam talks with Toyota product planning VP Cooper Ericksen.

Links

Lightnings with Tesla adapters

EV charging rules

Warda Patisserie

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ToyotaPalooza 2022 Jun 08, 2022

In the garage this week, Nicole is back in the Mercedes-Benz GLS450 while Sam has the dual motor, all-wheel-drive version of the VW ID4. Last fall, Robbie was about to review the refreshed 2022 Chevrolet Bolt when he got a call just after receiving it, telling him not to drive it. Since then, GM has replaced batteries in all of the Bolts built to date and they are safe again so Robbie is taking another stab at it.

Last week, Toyota held the second annual edition of its all-Toyota-all-Lexus auto show at its North American headquarters in Plano, TX. Nicole and Sam got to check out the new but very familiar looking 2023 Lexus RX, see the Morizo Edition of the GR Corolla and drive the hybrid-only 2023 Sequoia. They also got to see some stuff that they can't talk about or even acknowledge yet. Sam also spoke with Lexus NA chief Andrew Gilliland about where the brand is going. Oh yeah and Buick announced it's going all electric and released a hot new concept that they probably won't build.

Links

2023 Toyota Sequoia

Buick Wildcat EV concept

2023 Lexus RX

Chevy Bolt Price cut

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Teslas Can't See Aircraft May 29, 2022

This week, Robbie has been testing out the Audi Q5 Sportback, Nicole continues Hyundai-Fest with the new Tucson N-Line and Sam drives the Hyundai Ioniq 5. Sam also got a Kia EV6 for an EV road trip to Wisconsin.

In the news we discuss why it's not ok that Tesla FSD can't recognize airplanes. NHTSA finally has an administrator after 5 years without one. Rivian loses its manufacturing boss while getting a new COO. BBS introduces new universal fit wheels and the Fisker Pear is coming to Lordstown, Ohio.

Links

Tesla Crashes into Cirrus jet

Teslas can't see aircraft

Steven Cliff confirmed as new NHTSA administrator

Rivian mfg chief leaves, new COO incoming

BBS CI-R universal wheel

Fisker Pear coming in 2024, under $29,900

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The Porter Wins May 24, 2022

We've had a quite a variety of vehicles to drive in the past week. Robbie went all the way to Germany to drive the new BMW iX M60 from Munich to Lake Como in Italy. Nicole has been juggling Hyundais with a Sonata N-Line sedan at home and most of the brand's electrified lineup in Nashville with the Ioniq 5, Kona EV, Tucson PHEV and Santa Fe PHEV. Sam finally got to spend some quality time with the new Toyota Tundra as well.

In the news, Porsche revealed a preview of what might be its next car for a single make race series, the battery powered, 1,000+ hp 718 Cayman ePerformance. Honda released the first teaser sketch of the 2024 Prologue electric crossover that will be built by GM on its Ultium platform. Robbie shares his impressions of the Concorso D'eleganza and Nissan and Mitsubishi have a new electric Kei car in Japan called the Sakura, that American drivers can't have. Sam also shares his thoughts on the new New York Times documentary Elon Musk's Crash Course.

Links

Porsche 718 Cayman ePerformance

Honda Prologue teaser

Elon Musk's Crash Course

Nissan Sakura

Piaggio Porter

Robbie's Instagram

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The Scout Lives May 16, 2022

This week Nicole has two quite different machines to discuss, the updated, extended range Volvo XC60 T8 Recharge and the Mazda3 Turbo. Roberto has the BMW M240i that hearkens back to the classic E36 3 Series and Sam has a reprise of the Ford F-150 Platinum hybrid.

Sam also got to spend a couple of quality hours blasting around in the new 2023 Nissan Z. In the news, Lordstown has completed the sale of its factory to Foxconn, but there is far from a guarantee that the Endurance will ever get to full production. Motor Trend gets some very disappointing charging results from the new Toyota bZ4X AWD. With the post-IPO lockup expired, Ford has sold off two large tranches of its Rivian stock on the way to what will likely be a full divestment in time. Finally, Volkswagen announced that it will revive the old International Scout brand for an upcoming electric SUV and pickup truck.

Links

Lordstown closes sale of plant to Foxconn, Fisker Pear to be produced there

Toyota BZ4X slow DC charging when cold

Ford selling off Rivian stake

Return of Scout

2023 Nissan Z first drive

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Lightning Strikes May 11, 2022

This week in the garage, Roberto and Sam have been evaluating electric driving range. Robbie has been pushing the BMW iX to its limits while Sam has been driving the Hyundai Tucson plug-in hybrid. Meanwhile Nicole has been on the road and in the desert with the 2022 GMC Sierra in Denali Ultimate and AT4X forms.

Nicole and Sam have finally gotten behind the wheel of the Ford F-150 Lightning and they share their impressions and answer a bunch of questions. Sam also sat down with Darren Palmer, VP of electric vehicle programs at Ford to talk about charging, range estimation and how the Lightning came to be. We also discuss Robbie's recent article on whether it's better to keep driving an old beater or buy a new EV. Tesla doesn't support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, but one creative person got it sort of working with the help of a couple of Raspberry Pis. Meanwhile, BMW does support AA and Carplay, but cars built since the beginning of the year are missing the functionality as the automaker rewrites the code for a new chip they are now using.

Links

F-150 Lightning First Drive

EVs vs Beaters

BMWs being delivered without Android Auto/Apple Carplay

Getting Apple CarPlay to work in a Tesla ... with Android

Gas Superuser Study

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The Deer Ran Into Me May 01, 2022

This week on the show, Roberto reviews the Kia Soul rental car he had on Kauai last week, Nicole drives the baby Range Rover, the Evoque, and Sam discusses the new eighth-generation Volkswagen GTI.

In the news, Chevrolet teased out upcoming hybrid and electric versions of the Corvette and all of GM's Ultium platform EVs are getting a heat pump energy recovery system as standard equipment. Dodge is expanding its lineup with a compact crossover called the Hornet which we'll see in August and Nissan is working on a new ADAS system using Luminar lidar. Finally, a dealer in Colorado has opened a used car store that only sells hybrids and EVs and we answer some questions.

Links

Electrified Corvettes

GM Ultium Energy Recovery System

Dodge Hornet

New Nissan ADAS with lidar

Colorado dealer that only sells used EVs and hybrids

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Some Compromises Apr 25, 2022

Robbie is on vacation this week, but Nicole is back. She's been driving the Infiniti QX55 and the Toyota 4Runner, one of which was very pleasant. Sam had the Mazda CZ-9 Signature.

We've got lots of news this week starting with the Lincoln Star concept that previews the design direction for Ford's premium brand as it goes electric and Sam spoke with design director Kemal Curic. On the same day that the Lincoln was revealed, BMW showed off its new 7 series including the electric i7 and Lexus dropped the RZ450e electric crossover. Nicole and Sam both recently drove the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4Xe plug-in hybrid. Nicole also provides her impressions of the Subaru Solterra.

Links

Lincoln Star Concept

BMW 7 Series and i7

Jeep Grand Cherokee 4XE

Lexus RZ450

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Coexisting Assistants Apr 17, 2022

Nicole is off again this week caring for her mom, but the boys are carrying on. Roberto has been putting more miles on the BMW i4 and found it to be surprisingly efficient. Meanwhile Sam also got very good fuel efficiency while driving the Honda Civic Si which retains a rapidly nearing extinction manual gearbox.

In the news, the New York Auto Show was this week where Genesis showed off a new electric luxury coupe concept, Ford expanded its relationship with Amazon Alexa and some cool Radwood cars appeared on the show floor. BMW also announced a mid-cycle refresh of the X7 and Sam again spoke with Alfa Romeo NA boss Larry Dominque.

Links

Ford and Alexa

BMW X7 refresh

Genesis X Spedium concept

Radwood at NYAS

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Not A Crazed Squirrel Apr 13, 2022

This week on the show, Roberto went all the way to Germany to drive the new Mercedes-Benz EQE midsize electric sedan. Nicole had a very different Mercedes, the seven-seat GLS450 SUV as well as the Hyundai Santa Cruz. Sam tested his new EV charger with the Mini Cooper SE.

Nicole and Roberto also drove the GMC Hummer EV while Sam and Nicole tried out the Toyota bZ4X. A San Francisco police officer pulled over a driverless Cruise AV. Jeep is launching an even bigger version of the Wagoneer with the new Hurricane inline-six and Lincoln is teasing its upcoming EV concept.

Links

GMC Hummer EV first drive

Lincoln EV concept tease

Toyota bZ4X first drive

Cruise AV traffic stop

2023 Jeep Wagoneer L/Grand Wagoneer L

Manheim auctions tests used EV batteries

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100 HP Per Cylinder Apr 03, 2022

Nicole is attending to her mom this week, so it's just the guys. Robbie had two different EVs off the same platform, the Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo and the Audi RS e-tron GT. Sam drove the GMC Canyon AT4.

Rolls-Royce has released testing images and video of its first EV, the Specter undergoing winter testing in Sweden. Honda and Acura have extended their certified pre-owned car program to models as old as 10 and Toyota has released its hottest hatch yet, the Corolla GR. NHTSA also announced plans to raise corporate average fuel economy standards to over 40 mpg by 2026.

Links

Rolls-Royce Specter

Honda/Acura CPO changes

Toyota Corolla GR

New Fuel Economy standards

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Orange is Rugged Mar 30, 2022

The end of quarter travel is still going strong this week. Since our last regular episode Roberto has driven two new electric vehicles, the Lucid Air Dream Edition and the Nissan Ariya. Meanwhile, Sam having just returned from California on a red-eye talks about the Kia Sorento plug-in hybrid. Nicole was going the opposite direction from Sam and slid in late after being in transit from San Diego airport for the first part of the show. She has been playing with the Honda Passport Trailsport, complete with orange trim.

Sam and Nicole shared some impressions of the updated Volvo XC60 Recharge with its longer 35-mile electric range. Stellantis is trailing the pack in fuel economy so since it expects to be still selling internal combustion vehicles into the 2030s, it has developed a new engine called Hurricane to replace the Hemi V8s. Lotus has revealed its first crossover, the electric Eletre. Nicole also shares her driving impressions of the new Mazda CX-50 and we answer questions.

Links

Stellantis Hurricane I-6

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Electric Volvos and More Mar 19, 2022

This week our usual recording time coincided with both Roberto and Nicole being in transit somewhere while Sam is hitting the road again in a couple of days. But rather than let you down, we do have some fresh content for you. First off, both Nicole and Sam drove the new Volvo C40 Recharge and sat down in a garden afterward to discuss their impressions. While at the Volvo event, Sam also chatted with Volvo Cars NA chief Anders Gustafsson and Senior product manager Christina Vasandani. We also have the rest of the interviews Sam recorded at the Chicago Auto Show including Steve Gehring, safety regulation and policy executive director at Hyundai, Jasen Turnbull, marketing manager for the the Ford F-150 Lightning and Arie Groenveld, Ford Bronco Raptor chief engineer

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The Buzz is Back Mar 13, 2022

This week Roberto has two vehicles to discuss, the Ford Maverick Lariat and the Kia EV6. Nicole has the massive Jeep Grand Wagoneer and Sam drives the not-a-minivan Jeep Grand Wagoneer.

In the news, VW has finally unveiled the production version of the ID Buzz which Europeans get this summer and Americans will have to wait for until 2024. PG&E is testing bidirectional charging with GM and Ford. Honda is making a plan to make a plan to maybe make EVs with Sony. Rivian is still facing some production challenges. There won't be a new gas powered Subaru STi and questions are answered.

Links

VW ID Buzz

GM and PG&E to test bidirectional charging

Honda and Sony may tie up on EVs

Rivian still having a hard time building

No more gas STis from Subaru

Extended warranties on Car Talk

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Gliding Actively Sometimes Mar 06, 2022

Unfortunately, Roberto woke up today with a massive migraine so it's just Nicole and Sam this week. Nicole has been driving the refreshed 2022 Acura RDX A-Spec, while Sam has been shuttling around in the 2022 Infiniti QX60 Autograph.

The embargo has lifted on drive impressions of the updated 2022 Lincoln Navigator, the first model in the lineup with hands-free driving assist and we have some thoughts. Sam also had a conversation with Mike Sprague, North America director for Lincoln about the brand and where it goes in the future. Mike's boss, Jim Farley, made a big announcement about reorganizing Ford and we talk about how that might affect dealers and customers. Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares laid out a vision for the company through 2030 and showed off first renders of the upcoming 2023 Jeep EV and 2024 Ram 1500 EV. Polestar revealed a stunning new electric roadster concept and Rivian had a bad day with a pricing announcement. As usual we also answer questions.

Links

2022 Lincoln Navigator first drive

Polestar O2 concept

First Look at Jeep EV for 2023

Ford reorganizes

Rivian announces new dual motor configuration and raises prices

Rivian rethinks price increase

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They've Seen Cars With 4 Wheels Feb 27, 2022

Nicole is back doing the Disney thing with her family this week so it's just the boys. Roberto spent time with the new Subaru WRX and the eighth generation VW GTI (sadly with an automatic). Sam has been driving the 2022 GMC Sierra Limited AT4 with the lovely 3.0-liter inline-six diesel engine.

In the news, Virgin Hyperloop has given up on carrying passengers while Morgan is back with an all-new 3-wheeler. Polestar is shifting from using Volvo shared platforms to purpose built aluminum architectures with help from Lotus veterans. NHTSA is finally about to update headlight rules to allow adaptive lamps and it is possible to go topless in winter weather. We also have an interview with Steve Kosowski, manager of long range strategy and planning at Kia America.

Links

Virgin Hyperloop pivots to cargo

Top Down in Boston

Top Down in Detroit

New Morgan 3-Wheeler

Polestar 5 aluminum platform

adaptive headlight rules

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They Can't Be Hard When It's Cold Feb 20, 2022

This week in the garage, Roberto enjoyed some top down time with the Jaguar F-Type Roadster, Nicole finished her time with the Nissan Sentra and Sam drove the Mitsubishi Eclipese (not a real Eclipse) Cross.

Robbie shares his impressions of ice driving in Colorado with Bridgestone. Nissan is going to build two new electric sedans in Mississippi and probably kill off the Titan to do it. Toyota has pattened a simulated manual shift complete with a clutch for EVs. Sam talks with Chevrolet Silverado chief engineer Nichole Kraatz (patrons already got this last week). Most car buyers are payng over sticker and seeing bouncing Impalas caused a search spike.

Links

80% of car buyers paid over sticker in January

Nissan to build 2 new EVs in Mississippi

Toyota's psuedo manual patent

GMC Hummer Battery weighs almost 3,000 pounds.

Manual transmission electric Saturn

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A Saucy Badger Feb 13, 2022

This week we have a pair of SUVs that can go off-road almost anywhere with the Ford Bronco Wildtrack Sasquatch and the Land Rover Defender 110 SE. We also have a pair of decidedly on-road machines in the Hyundai Tucson and Nissan Sentra.

Nicole and Sam went to the Chicago Auto Show this week and didn't see any new completely new models, just some stuff that's already been shown like the Bronco Raptor, Chevrolet Silverado EV and Toyota Sequoia along with new trim variants like the Ram 1500 Firefighter edition. Before the show, Alfa Romeo revealed the new Tonale and its accompanying NFT but didn't bring it to Chicago. Sam did speak with Alfa North America boss Larry Dominique. The biggest but least surprising news was the new Camp Jeep climbing hill and Nissan brought a trio of Frontier concepts including two decided retro variants.

Links

Nissan Frontier Concepts

Automated Driving Must Be Fail Operational

Tesla removes redundant steering control in China, doesn't tell customers

The Biggest Mountain

Alfa Romeo Tonale

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400 LBs of Snow and Ice Feb 06, 2022

This week in our review section, Robbie drove the Ford Escape plug-in hybrid and came up well short of its rated electric range. Sam also came up short of the EPA fuel economy with the F-150 hybrid, but it was driving in snow and had about 400 lbs worth of snow and ice in the bed. Nicole had the new two-row version of the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

In the news, the EPA isn't happy about the postal service's choice not to get electric delivery trucks and Ford CEO Jim Farley isn't happy with his dealers gouging customers. However, the Spirit of Ecstasy is getting a refresh for the upcoming Rolls-Royce Spectre. We also answer a bunch of questions.

Links

Poor Fuel Economy of new Postal Trucks

Jim Farley calls out dealers for price gouging

Rolls-Royce refreshes the Spirit of Ecstasy

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Into the Wilderness Feb 01, 2022

Nicole is back and she's been driving the 2022 Infiniti QX60 and the Subaru Outback Wilderness which arrived just in time for a couple of feet of snow to get dumped on New England. Robbie finishes his stint in the Cadillac CT5V Blackwing and Sam hits some unpaved rural roads in the 2022 Ford Explorer Timberline.

Tesla has apparently added some code designed to disable the power seat adjustment if you use it too much. Ford is going Pro with it's new EVs and Roberto got to drive the new e-Transit and ride along for a few minutes in the F-150 Lightning. Both Robbie and Nicole also got to drive the new Kia EV6 and we answer a bunch of listener questions

Links

Tesla turns off seat controls if you use them too much

Roberto drives the Ford e-Transit

Roberto rides in the F-150 Lightning

Kia EV6 first drive

Street tires for the F-150 Raptor

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Going Wide Jan 24, 2022

This week it's just Roberto and Sam as Nicole gets some Disney time. Sam was double booked in the garage this week with the 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander and Toyota Camry XSE Hybrid. Meanwhile Robbie is enjoying one of the last manual transmission high-performance sedans with the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing.

Staying with Cadillac, they released first images of the Escalade V with more to come in the next couple of months. Ford will start taking orders for the 2022 Bronco Raptor in March and they are also forming a vehicle security joint-venture with ADT called Canopy. BMW is preparing to build its final batch of V12 powered production cars with a run of 12 M760is in June. 2022 will be the last year when Lamborghini builds internal combustion models exclusively. Sam interviewed TrueCar CEO Mike Darrow about the company's new online sales platform at the LA auto show

Links

2022 Ford Bronco Raptor

2023 Cadillac Escalade V

Ford-ADT security joint venture

No More BMW V12s

Lamborghini prepares for electrification

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And The Winner Is ... Jan 16, 2022

Robbie's driveway was empty of loaners this week, but Nicole has been driving the Honda Civic Sport Touring hatchback with a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and CVT and Sam had the new Nissan Pathfinder Platinum AWD. In the show, the Civic was misidentified as the regular Sport rather than the Sport Touring.

In the news, we discuss the North American Car Truck and Utility vehicle of the Year awards. Jason Torchinsky wrote about how they made the garbage luxury cars of the 1980s, used cars are too expensive. Bollinger pulls the plug on its electric pickup and SUV and Honda shows off the next-gen Civic Type-R.

Links

Chicken Tax

North American Car, Truck and Utility vehicle of the year

The Past was Garbage

Used cars are getting expensive

Bollinger cancels pickup and SUV

2023 Honda Civic Type-R

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Going With the Flow Jan 11, 2022

CES 2022 is behind us and none of the team actually went to Las Vegas this year, but we did cover what was announced either in person there or virtually. Last time we covered the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado and the Chrysler Airflow concept. This time we have the Mercedes-Benz Vision EQXX with its more than 600 mile range. GM also teased us with the first renders of the $30,000 Chevy Equinox EV that is coming in fall 2023, and Volvo, Zenseact and Luminar shared more on the partially automated Ride Pilot system that is planned to start testing in California this year and eventually come to production. Finally, BMW showed a concept version of the new iX covered in e-ink that can change between white, black or any shade of grey in between.

In the garage, Roberto drove the new Mercedes-AMG SL roadster, Nicole braved New Hampshire winter weather in the Ford Bronco and Sam drives the Genesis GV70.

Links

Ford Bronco filled with snow

BMW iX Flow

2024 Chevrolet Equinox EV

Mercedes-Benz EQXX

Volvo Ride Pilot

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Return of Avalanche and Airflow, Eventually Jan 05, 2022

We're kicking off 2022 with lots of battery powered vehicles. Nicole gets a first drive in the Lucid Air Dream edition, Roberto drives the Mini SE and Sam is the outlier with the 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback.

In the news, it's CES week and while the team have all opted to stay away from Las Vegas this year thanks to Omicron, there's plenty of news. GM moved the Mary Barra keynote online but Sam got a preview look at the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV just before Christmas. Over at Stellantis, there apparently is a future for the Chrysler brand as they reveal the Airflow concept and Sam talks with brand CEO Chris Feuell. Waymo and Geely team up for a purpose-built robotaxi and we answer a bunch of listener questions.

Links

Waymo and Geely partner for a custom robotaxi

Chrysler Airflow Concept

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Great In Principle Dec 26, 2021

On the morning after XMas, it's just Nicole and Sam. Nicole has been testing out the updated 2022 Jeep Compass Trailhawk in New Hampshire while Sam has had dissappointing fuel efficiency from the 2022 Lexus RX450h.

In the news, a threat from NHTSA got Tesla to turn off game play while driving, we now know the battery sizes for the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning, we discuss whether solar panels on cars make sense, GM wants to sell some of its EV parts to other companies and charging on the VW ID EVs gets faster with an OTA software update. We also answer a bunch of questions.

Links

Tesla turns off in motion game play

Ford F-150 Lightning battery sizes

Lightyear One solar panels

GM wants to sell EV parts

VW ID vehicles get faster charging thanks to OTA software update

How American electricity is generated

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I See Pixels Dec 19, 2021

This week we've got multiple opinions on a couple of cars. All three of the hosts drove the new Hyundai Ioniq 5 EV while both Nicole and Sam had 2022 Genesis GV70s. Nicole got a rear driver while Sam had all-wheel-drive, both with the 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6. Roberto had something completely different, the Arcimoto Roadster, an electric three-wheeler.

In the news, Rivian reports its first quarterly earnings and loses big on a small number of deliveries but already has plans for a second factory. GM has first deliveries of its two newest EVs, the GMC Hummer and BrightDrop EV600. Sam also has an interview with Trevor Lai, director of product planning for EVs at Hyundai of America and we answer some questions.

Links

Sam's first impressions of the Ioniq 5

Roberto's video review of the Ioniq 5

GMC Hummer and BrightDrop EV600 deliveries

What happened to Chanje

Rivian loses money

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That's a Giant Wiper Dec 12, 2021

This week Nicole is taking some time off and flying out to meet her daughter for a long drive back home for the holidays so it's just the boys without supervision so we start off with a tangent about pies. Roberto has only had a brief time with the BMW X5 plug-in hybrid so the garage is mostly the 2022 Hyundai Kona electric that Sam has been driving. In the news, Ford will be moving production of the electric Explorer and Lincoln Aviator somewhere other the Mexican plant where the Mustang Mach-E is built so they can more than triple production of the Mach-E.

If congress manages to pass the Build Back Better act, it should include some expanded EV tax incentives but because Elon Musk hates unions and competitors, he thinks the incentives should be abolished all together. VW confirmed that it will build a pop up camper version of the new electric ID Buzz and a new Tesla Cybertruck prototype has been spotted with a single giant windshield wiper. We also have Sam's interview with Rob Filipovic, director of product planning for Jaguar Land Rover North America

Links

Ford to Triple Mustang Mach-E production

Elon opposes EV incentives

How the propsed new EV incentive structure works

Transitioning connected cars from 3G to 4G

VW ID.Buzz California camper is coming

Jason Torchinsky's review of the VW T6 California

Giant Cybertruck windshield wiper

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Hauling Anything But Ass Dec 05, 2021

This week Nicole has been having fun blasting around in the 2022 Honda Civic Si with a six-speed manual gearbox. Roberto has been hauling cement turtles in the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder and Sam has been avoiding making eye contact with the Toyota Prius Prime.

In the news, BMW released a concept version of a new M-only model codenamed "RockStar" and badged as XM. Anyone that wants a Toyota GR86 in Europe will have to hurry before new emissions regulations kill it there and Polestar gives a preview of what's coming next.

Links

Polestar 3,4 and 5

Short EU Run for Toyota GR86

BMW XM Concept

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The Perfect Mulch Hauler Nov 30, 2021

Lots of stuff in the garage in this week as Nicole gets to spend more time with the 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness. On the opposite coast, Robbie has one of his two ideal cars, the Audi RS6 Avant and also shares some thoughts on the BMW 330e plug-in hybrid. Sticking with the PHEV theme, Sam had a first drive in the new Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring and also got to try out GM's new Android Automotive based infotainment system in the 2022 Chevrolet Tahoe.

In the news, GM and Ford are both doing deals with chip makers to try to avoid future shortages, Genesis shows the exterior of the next generation G90 luxury sedan and Nissan announces some of its electrification plans between now and 2030. We also have an interview that Sam recorded in LA with Aditya Jairaj, director of EV marketing and sales strategy at Nissan

Links

New Genesis G90

Ford and GlobalFoundries

GM and its chip plans

Nissan Ambition 2030

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Driving a whole bunch of stuff Nov 21, 2021

The whole team has bugged out of southern California after several days of checking out what is new. Sam returned to chilly Michigan to drive the BMW M3 Competition xDrive on summer tires. Nicole landed back in New Hampshire to pick up the Lexus UX250h which has now been reclassified as an SUV-over. Robbie was in between rides at home, but sampled a whole bunch of stuff during the annual World Car of the Year drive off including the new BMW 2 series coupe. Both Robbie and Nicole have sampled Hyundai's new sport models, the Elantra N and Kona N

While in SoCal, the whole team went to the truncated LA auto show which was all about EVs this year including the debut of the production intent Fisker Ocean (make sure to listen to ep 221 for an interview with Henrik Fisker) and the latest collaboration between Subaru and Toyota, the Solterra and bZ4X electric SUV-over twins. We also discuss the Tesla server outage that left some owners locked out of their cars and answer a bunch of listener questions.

Links

Tesla server outage

Why cars need a local mechanism for access

Fisker Ocean debut

Toyota bZ4X debut

Subaru Solterra

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Phoenix From The Ashes Nov 20, 2021

This week, the whole gang has been in Southern California for the LA Auto Show and related events. In the garage, Nicole drove the 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee in Moab and Sam had the 2022 Nissan Frontier Pro-X at home in Michigan.

We discuss the new Acura Integra Prototype and answer a question about how we review cars. Finally, we have some of the interviews that Sam did with various people while in California with more to come over the next couple of weeks. This time we have Mike Tripp and Cooper Erickson from Toyota about the bZ4X and Henrik Fisker on the new Ocean EV.

Links

Fisker Ocean first look

2023 Toyota bZ4X reveal

2023 Acura Integra Prototype

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You'll Make Your Money Back in a Week Nov 12, 2021

In the garage this week we have first extended take of the Ford Maverick XLT hybrid from Sam. Roberto samples the Rivian R1T and spends more time with the Mercedes-Benz EQS. Nicole gives a first impression of the new Nissan Pathfinder that just arrived as she got home from a trip.

In the news Ford Performance launched the Eluminator crate motor SEMA and almost immediately sold out. Rivian raked in $11.9B from its IPO, the rest of the auto industry has committed $515B to EV development and production and 1/3 of Cadillac stores are calling it quits before they have to spend money to support EVs. In listener Q&A we mostly decline to give investment advice.

Links

Ford Eluminator crate motor

Rivian IPO

Auto industry invests $515B in EVs

1/3 of Cadillac stores to close before EVs arrive

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Don't Get A Bad Car Loan Oct 31, 2021

This week, Sam is still driving a white three-row Jeep SUV, but it's a more manageable size in the form of the new Grand Cherokee L. Nicole has been getting around in a very Halloween colored Ford F-150 Raptor and Robbie shares some thoughts on a couple of new BMWs, the Alpina B8 and M5.

In the news, Subaru responded to the Massachusetts right to repair rules by disabling the telematics on new vehicles sold in the state and we have some mixed feelings. Staying with connectivity, Ford is still working out some details with its over-the-air update process so it has delayed the OTA update to enable BlueCruise on the F-150 and Mach-E. Mercedes-Benz has launched a new SL roadster and GMC is giving the Sierra a major update after just two years. We wrap up with some discussion of car loans and Q&A

Links

Subaru turns off Starlink

2023 Mercedes-Benz SL

Ford delays BlueCruise OTA

2022 GMC Sierra

Bad car loans

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Indy Goes Driverless Oct 25, 2021

This week Robbie gets his hands on the not-a-minivan minivan from Kia, the 2022 Carnival. Sam heads to Indy in the big, comfy and oh so thirsty Jeep Wagoneer and Nicole goes off-road in the 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness.

This past week jurors for the North American Car and Truck of the Year, which include Nicole gathered in Ann Arbor to drive a bunch of stuff and Sam managed to also squeeze in a drive in the Rivian R1T. The reason Sam went to Indianappolis was for the Indy Autonomous Challenge where self-driving Indy Lights cars took the big oval and Tesla announced it would use lithium iron phosphate batteries for its standard range cars globally.

Links

Indy Autonomous Challenge

Hellcat powered Plymouth Prowler

Tesla adds iron batteries

240 mpg VW XL1

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It Grows On You Oct 20, 2021

This week in the garage, Sam takes a road trip in the Audi Q5 plug-in hybrid, Nicole drives the Ford Explorer XLT and Roberto samples Volvo's first electric-only model the C40.

The embargo has finally lifted on the drive impressions of the BMW i4 M50 and Robbie shares his thoughts on this new German electric autobahn machine. We also discuss the augmented reality heads up display in the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class and AAA testing of driver assist systems in bad weather conditions. As usual, we wrap with some listener questions.

Links

AAA ADAS testing

Robbie's BMW i4 first drive

Mercedes-Benz Augmented reality HUD

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Munster Challenger Oct 12, 2021

This week we have lots of cruising. Roberto has been riding on BMW's big bruiser bike, the R18, Nicole has been Grand Touring in the Lincoln Aviator plug-in hybrid and Sam has had the unicorn-like Ford Escape plug-in hybrid.

Robbie and Sam each got to drive Ford's quickest EV yet, the Mach-E GT while Nicole got a first drive in Toyota's new 2022 Tundra including the hybrid variant. GM announced its next-gen hands-free driving assist called Ultra Cruise. We answer some listener questions and Sam interviews Ford's Darren Palmer and Dave Pericak.

Links

Sam's Take on the Mach-E GT

Robbie's Impressions of the Mach-E GT

GM Ultra Cruise

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When Enough Is Enough Oct 03, 2021

This week in the garage, Nicole is getting a kick out of the Hyundai Sonata N-Line with its 290-hp turbocharged engine. Sam has been tossing around the Mazda Miata RF while Robbie has been too busy with work to drive.

Nicole got a first drive in the Ford Maverick compact pickup and and Sam and Nicole each got to drive Mazda's first EV, the MX-30. In Britain, drivers facing gas shortages are taking a closer look at EVs. We answer some listener questions and Sam interviews Jay Chen and Dave Coleman from Mazda.

Links

British drivers look to EVs during gas shortages

2022 Mazda MX-30 first drive review

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It's Not So Ugly Oct 01, 2021

Nicole's travel was disrupted which meant she didn't get home in time to record this episode so it's just Sam and Roberto. Robbie can finally spill the beans on his first drive of the BMW iX electric crossover and his ridealong in the new Mercedes-Benz SL. Sam spent time with a pair of opposites, the Ford Shelby GT500 Mustang and the Toyota Highlander Hybrid.

In the news, Sam offers a correction on the pricing of the Tesla charging cable, GM announces its Ultifi platform for in-vehicle apps and launches low volume production of the Brightdrop EV600. Lucid has also launched production of the Air electric luxury sedan and Ford and SK Innovation are spending a combined $11.4 billion on three battery plants and a new assembly plant for electric trucks. As usual we wrap with questions.

Links

Tesla charging cables

GM launches Ultifi in-car app development platform

Brightdrop starts EV600 production

Lucid starts turning out the Air

Ford and SK invest $11.4B in EV and battery production

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Now With Maximum Grille Sep 21, 2021

Robbie was a bit late in joining the show today due to some connectivity issues so Nicole and Sam started without him. Nicole has been driving the new 2022 Nissan Frontier which replaced a very long in the tooth model with one that looks totally different. Sam drove a new model that wasn't that old but the new version of the Lexus IS300 is almost indistinguishable.

In the news, Toyota has an all-new Tundra that takes large grilles to a whole new level while Ford does a more subtle job refreshing the big Expedition. Jeep announces some pricey half doors for the Gladiator and gang wishes GM would revive the old GMC Motorhome on the Ultium electric platform.

Links

Jeep Half-doors

Petition for GM to build Ultium powered electric GMC Motorhome

2022 Toyota Tundra

2022 Ford Expedition

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I'm Not a Bus Sep 18, 2021

This week on the show, Robbie has returned from the IAA show in Munich and while he can't yet tell us about some of what he drove, he shares some thoughts on what he saw there including the VW ID.Life concept, the BMW Vision Circle and he also describes the new Hyundai Kona EV, the he and his wife just bought. Nicole shares her impressions of the new single motor Polestar 2 while Sam has been driving the Hyundai Tucson hybrid.

In the news, the Lucid Air gets an official EPA range rating of 520 miles while Rivian starts regular production of the R1T electric pickup. Unfortunately, R1T buyers won't be getting the zero radius tank turn feature. In 2023, General Motors will be introducing the follow-up to Super Cruise called Ultra Cruise and it will include lidar sensors from Cepton.

We answer a bunch of listener questions including follow up on Roberto's review of the Volvo XC40 Recharge and Sam interviews James Kuffner, the CEO of Woven Planet, the division of Toyota responsible for developing all sorts of new technologies including automated driving systems.

Links

Cepton

Woven Planet

Lucid 520 mile range

No Tank Turns for Rivian

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It's Not Just Another Hyundai Sep 06, 2021

In the garage this week, Sam has been driving one of the last car-shaped Volkswagens still available in America, the 2021 Arteon SE 2.0T and finds that yes, it can almost swallow a thick queen-size mattress through its sleek hatchback rear opening. Before jetting off to Munich for the IAA Mobility show, Roberto spent time in the Volvo XC40 Recharge, the first battery electric model from the Swedish brand. Nicole spent her time with the 2022 Genesis GV70, a lifted, wagonish version of the lovely G70.

Since our last recording session, Audi unveiled the GrandSphere concept, a preview of its new design direction as it goes all electric. Another brand going all electric is Cadillac and their first battery model is the upcoming Lyriq. Sam got to spend three hours with the team developing it and shares some thoughts. Finally, Nicole and Sam got to drive the 2022 Infiniti QX60 which also has a new design language for the brand although it lacks any electrification at this point. Nicole and Sam also speak with group VP of Infiniti Americas, Jeff Pope.

Links

Audi GrandSphere concept

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Mars Is Not The Utopia Elon Thinks It Is Sep 01, 2021

This week in the garage, Sam is driving the Volvo XC90 T8 Recharge as it heads into its final model year before a complete redesign as an all-electric utility with a new name. Roberto got to the drive the Porsche Macan S and GT and gives an initial impression of the Ford Bronco that just landed in his driveway. Meanwhile Nicole takes advantage of some apparently rare nice weather in New Hampshire to drop the top on the new BMW 430i Convertible.

We had special guest Jamie Kitman join us to talk about those cars and a whole lot more including his great new feature on Elon Musk for the British magazine, The Road Rat. Jamie discusses Elon, his car collection and dives into the prospects of electric restomods and driver assistance for large vehicles.

Links

The Road Rat

Robbie reviews the Porsche Macan

Pre-order the Ford Eluminator crate motor for your restomod

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One Heading Out The Door, The Other Heading In Aug 23, 2021

In the garage this week Nicole has one car on the way out of production, the 2021 Mazda6 Signature and another on the way, the 2022 Toyota GR86. Sam had the 2021 Hyundai Veloster N with its new 8-spd dual clutch transmission that behaves just like a good manual would. Roberto got sit in but not drive the upcoming Cadillac Lyriq and only briefly drive the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt.

The Bolt had to leave Robbie's driveway after barely 24 hrs because GM issued a recall of all the Bolts made so far to replace the batteries. The New York Auto Show got cancelled again because of Covid, but Genesis decided to release photos of its first EV that scheduled to appear there, the new GV60 and Robbie did some real-time photoshop work to change the color to something better suited to the brand. Another car that did make a NY debut even without an auto show is the 2023 Nissan 400Z which is basically unchanged from the Proto we saw last year. Sam discusses his first impressions of Ford's hands-free BlueCruise driving assist feature and we wrap with listener questions.

Links

Genesis GV60

Chevrolet Bolt battery recall

2023 Nissan 400Z

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Classic Nameplates Return Aug 15, 2021

This week the whole crew did some travelling with Nicole and Sam going to New York to drive the new Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer while Roberto went to Monterey in a Lamborghini Urus and got some seat time in a 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Roadster. Robbie also got to check out the new Countach while he was there. While Roberto didn't go to Acura's event, we discuss the return of the Integra in 2022. Other stuff we drove included Nicole's time with the 2021 Toyota Sienna, Hyundai Santa Cruz and Nissan Frontier while Sam came home to the Audi SQ7. Finally, there is discussion of Nissan possibly jumping into the compact truck segment with an electric example and some listener questions including whether yellow is a suitable color for a sports car.

links

2022 Jeep Wagoneer first drive

Lamborghini Countach LPI 800-4

Acura Integra is coming back

Electric Nissan Compact pickup

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Launching, Road Tripping and Parking Aug 12, 2021

We had a bit of a break as both Nicole and Sam were travelling but we're back with a full garage. Roberto drove the standard and RS versions of the Audi e-Tron GT. Nicole had a trio from the Hyundai Motor Group starting with the refreshed 2021 Santa Fe and then the Genesis GV80 and G70. Sam had a trio of very different utility vehicles starting with the 2022 Acura MDX A-Spec and the Jeep Wrangler 4XE plug-in hybrid and finished with taking a road trip in the Ford Mustang Mach-E.

In the news we discuss some of the challenges of charging an EV on a road trip, the cancellation of the New York Auto Show, President Biden's executive order on electric vehicles and fuel economy and what may have transpired between Elon Musk and Tim Cook. Sam interviewed Kevin Mull from Bosch, Craig Stephens from Ford and Heather Willberger, CIO of Bedrock about the new Detroit Smart Parking Lab. As usual we wrap up with listener questions

Links

Biden EV executive order

What did Tim say to Elon

Road Trip EV charging

Detroit Smart Parking Lab

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Ultra Fine, Fine and Ok Jul 30, 2021

This week in the garage, Roberto has the 2021 Cadillac Escalade, Sam is driving the one of the last traditional full-size sedans in America, the Toyota Avalon Hybrid and Nicole is in the improved and refreshed 2022 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross.

In the news, while Robbie was in Europe, he also got to try out the new Mercedes-Benz Drive Pilot system, a level 3 conditional automation system that let's you go hands off and eyes off, but you can't take a nap yet. Stateside, Sam tried out a prototype of the updated 2022 GMC Sierra with Super Cruise that let's you go hands-free while towing a trailer but you have to keep eyes on the road. In the world of truly self-driving cars, Argo AI is teaming up with Lyft to deploy robotaxis in Austin and Miami.

Links

Mercedes-Benz Drive Pilot

2022 GMC Sierra Super Cruise

Argo Robotaxis on Lyft in Austin and Miami

Crutchfield

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Sweet, Sweet Options Jul 23, 2021

This week, two-thirds of the team did some travelling as Roberto went all the way to Switzerland to try out Mercedes-Benz first US market bound electric vehicle, the new EQS. Sam just took a train to Chicago and spoke with Ford Maverick marketing manager Trevor Scott about the new compact truck after spending some time driving the new Genesis GV80 luxury crossover. Nicole got to toss around the Mini John Cooper Works convertible with a nifty Union Jack pattern on the top.

In the news, a class action lawsuit against Ford is moving forward over destination charges on new vehicles. New car inventories across the US are at all time lows, Rivian has pushed back first customer deliveries of the R1T for a couple more months. Chevrolet Bolts that got software updates to prevent fires while charging are still igniting and the EU wants to ban new internal combustion vehicles by 2035. We wrap the show with more listener questions.

Links

Class action lawsuit over delivery fees

Rivian customer deliveries delayed

Bolts of fire

EU ban on internal combustion

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Dodge Will Sell American eMuscle Jul 10, 2021

This week in the garage, Roberto is driving Volkswagen of America's new entry level model, the 2022 Taos compact crossover. Nicole has the new 11th generation Honda Civic sedan in a strange sort of silver color with a hint of blue and same discusses the VW ID.4, the brand's first dedicated electric vehicle for the North American market.

In the news, we have lots more electrification stuff to discuss. Croatian EV startup Rimac has taken over control of Bugatti from the Volkswagen group. BMW brings its i4 and iX roadshow to Detroit and Stellantis spends a couple of hours fleshing out its plans to sell mostly electric vehicles by the end of the decade including the 2024 launch of a battery electric Ram 1500 and a new Dodge eMuscle car and battery-powered versions of every Jeep by 2025. Also from Stellantis, Peugeot has taken the wraps off its radical new Le Mans Hypercar which amazingly has no wings. As usual we wrap up with listener questions.

Links

Peugeot 9X8 Le Mans Hypercar

Rimac Takes Control of Bugatti

Stellantis Fleshes out its EV plans

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Interesting and Slightly Less Interesting Jul 06, 2021

This week in the garage, Nicole has something interesting and something slightly less interesting, the 2021 Hyundai Sonata Limited and the Aston Martin DBX, you can guess which is which. Roberto has the Mercedes-Benz E450 wagon and Sam has the Mazda CX-9 Signature.

In the news Volvo hosted a tech moment where they unveiled some news about their electrification and automated driving plans and revealed the Concept Recharge which previews the replacement for the XC90 coming in 2022. The Concours d'Elegance of America is coming up at the Inn at St Johns in Plymouth, Mich. on July 23-25. New owner Hagerty announced that in 2022, the show will move to midtown Detroit and the Detroit Institute of the Arts. GM is partnering with Controlled Thermal Resources to develop domestic production of lithium for all of its upcoming electric vehicles and Sam has an interview with Tim Grewe, GM's director of electrification strategy. We also answer a bunch of listener questions.

Links

Volvo Concept Recharge

Concours of America

Concours of America moving to Detroit

GM Invests in low-cost, low-carbon lithium production

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Just a Basic Entry Level Sedan Jul 01, 2021

This week in the garage Roberto drove a car that we agree is basically interchangeable cross-shopped with the Hyundai Accent, it's the new 2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Meanwhile, Nicole had Kia's new "not-a-minivan" minivan, the 2022 Carnival which replaces the Sedona with slightly more crossover-ish styling. Sam drives the latest sedan from the Acura, the 2021 TLX A-Spec.

In the news, some early deliveries of the new Jeep Grand Cherokee L may get delayed due to flooding in a storage lot near the Detroit plant and the Woodward Dream Cruise is returning this August with sponsorship from Ford. Honda has announced the name of the upcoming electric crossover that GM will build for it starting in early 2024, it's the Prologue. Finally Volvo decides to make lidar a standard feature on the next-generation electric XC90 coming in 2022. We answer some listener questions and Roberto tempers his opinion of the Ford Bronco Sport.

Links

Honda Prologue Electric CUV Coming in 2024

Flooding near the Jeep Assembly Plant in Detroit

The Woodward Dream Cruise is Back

Volvo Makes Lidar Standard

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You Can Have Too Much Grille Jun 28, 2021

In the garage this week, Nicole has the 2021 Ford F-150 PowerBoost Hybrid with plugs in the back and a work surface perfect for holding Crumble Cookies. Roberto drives the Subaru Forester Sport and we wonder if black wheels and red trim stripes can actually make a vehicle sporty. Robbie also spends time in the Ford Bronco Sport and has complaints. Sam drove the new hybrid Toyota Sienna and comes to the realization that Chevrolet was just premature in trying to make the old Uplander look like an SUV and also spends a weekend with the Polestar 2.

In the news, Toyota proves you can have too much grille when an image of the 2022 Tundra leaks out, Infiniti adopts a new design language for the new QX60 and Ferrari takes a new direction with the replacement for its long-running series of V8 sports cars by adopting a twin-turbo V6 and plug-in hybrid for the new 296 GTB. Finally, Nicole and Sam discuss their impressions of the driving the real 2021 Ford Bronco for the first time.

Links

2022 Infiniti QX60

2022 Toyota Tundra is all Grille

Ferrari 296 GTB

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Return of the PT Cruiser Jun 16, 2021

For episode 200 of the show, both of our emeritus hosts return for a special guest appearance as Rebecca Lindland and Dan Roth stop by. Sam and Dan compare notes on the Ford Ranger as Dan bought a Lariat with his new employee discount and Sam drove the new Ranger Tremor. Nicole also had a Tremor from Ford but hers was based on the F-350 Super Duty. She also spent time with the new Kia K5 during a trip to Seattle. Roberto shared his impressions of the plug-in hybrid Jeep Wrangler 4XE.

In the news we discuss the new Papal Transport from Fisker, the absurd Tesla Model S Plaid and the new 2022 Lexus NX. We wrap up with another round of listener questions about mini cars, Raptors, selling Miatas and our favorite cars.

Links

Tesla Model S Plaid

2022 Lexus NX

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Small Trucks and Toyota-Pallooza Jun 10, 2021

This week in the garage, Sam has been driving the 2022 Infiniti QX55 Sensory AWD, while Nicole had the opportunity to drive the newest Mitsubishi Outlander in many years, the 2021 Outlander that shares its platform with the Nissan Rogue.

Robbie didn't have anything to drive this week, but he did go to LA to check out BMW's new electric vehicles that are coming to America, the i4 sedan and iX crossover. Nicole went to Toyota HQ in Texas for a huge product showcase featuring the new Corolla Cross, GR86, bZ4X, Lexus LF-Z and Teammate hands-free driver assist system.

Nicole and Sam share some first driving impressions of the 2022 Nissan Pathfinder and then we dive into a discussion of Ford's new compact pickup truck the Maverick which will take on the Hyundai Santa Cruz.

Links

2022 Ford Maverick

BMW i4

2022 Nissan Pathfinder first drive

Podcast Episode Details

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Wanna Buy A Sports Car Assembly Line? Jun 06, 2021

Roberto reconfirms the Honda Ridgeline is all the truck most people need. He uses it to tow the Honda Talon for off-road thrills. Robbie also tries the Polestar 2 and its Android Automotive infotainment system. Nicole drives the Subaru Forester and the refreshed Nissan Armada. Sam also gets back into a big SUV, returning to the 2021 Cadillac Escalade, this time focusing on the new second-generation Super Cruise system.

In the news, Lotus has put the Elise tooling up for sale. Tesla drops radar from the Model 3 and Y and faces challenges selling cars built in Texas to Texans. We bid a melancholy goodbye to the Mazda 6 and CX-3, and then wrap up with your questions, including test-drive advice.

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What Is This Doing Here? May 29, 2021

This week, Nicole drives the Chevroley Suburban Diesel, Roberto tried the Acura TLX Type-S and Ducati Multistrada V4, and Sam was in the Buick Envision.

We talk about the Ford F-150 Lightning Pro, The Blue Oval's SK Innovation battery joint venture, the unveiling of the Kia EV6, and the 9,000 pound Hummer EV.

Your questions and comments take us home, including a stateside Holden Commodore Ute and a few queries from someone named Rebecca.

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First Close Look At An Electric Pickup May 22, 2021

We're back on track this week. Nicole spends time in the new 2021 Kia Sorento X-Line, Robbie tries out opposites: the McLaren GT and Toyota Mirai. Sam finishes up two weeks of Hellcat with the Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat.

In the news, the UK government moves to legallize Level 3 automated vehicles, Caterham working on electric Sevens, and Sam got a deep dive into the battery-powered 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning and shares his thoughts on what it can do.

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No One Needs a 700hp Truck, But You Sure Might Want It May 13, 2021

Robbie forgot to set his alarm, this is a spliced special. Nicole drove the 2021 Hyundai Sonata hybrid, Sam drag raced in the dirt with the Ram 1500 TRX, and Roberto heavy duty in Daimler's EM2 electric box truck and battery-powered E-Cascadia semi.

We discuss Ford's launch of the Timberline rugged off-road trim level starting with the Explorer and the return of Citroen to the American market with the Ami filling car sharing fleets. We finish up with a listener letter about electric road tripping.

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In Search Of A Rental Car May 06, 2021

Nicole and Roberto return from their vacations without having to rent moving vans to get around. Robbie tried a 2020 Kia Sorento in Hawaii. Nicole drove the new Jeep Wrangler 4Xe plug-in hybrid, and Sam went from the old: Lexus GX460; to the new: Buick Encore GX.

We skip news this week and address a bunch of listener questions including electric off-roading, low inventory, project car opinions, wagon recommendations, and used PHEVs/BEVs.

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A Conversation with Nvidia's Danny Shapiro Apr 28, 2021

Following the 2021 Nvidia GPU Technology Conference, Sam had a conversation with Danny Shapiro to discuss why GPUs were so well suited to advanced automotive applications like automated driving

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Say Hello To Roberto Apr 23, 2021

The internet's Roberto Baldwin joins Nicole and Sam in place of Dan Roth who took off for an automaker job. We drive the Dodge Durango Hellcat, GMC Sierra HD diesel, Toyota RAV4 Prime, and we take a ride in the Lucid Air Grand Touring.

We talk about the Toyota Beyond Zero sub-brand and bZ4X concept, the 2023 Cadillac Lyriq, and Stellantis winding down its Giorgio platform. We wrap with our usual listener emails.

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The End Of An Era Apr 17, 2021

Sam tries out the Mazda3 Turbo, Nicole drives the Toyota Highlander, and Dan finishes with the 2022 Acura MDX and swaps it for the Lincoln Nautilus Black Label.

We cover the Mazda MX-30, even its Wankel range extender, GM's new cloud-based navigation for OnStar, and Dan interviews Chrysler Pacifica chief engineer Brian Swanson. We fit a couple listener questions in there, too.

Life is all about change and this episode wraps with another change announcement, but it's going to be OK.

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It's Infrastructure Week! Apr 09, 2021

Sam drove the 2021 Hyundai Elantra, Dan finished his time in the Mustang Mach-E and moved on to the new 2022 Acura MDX, while Nicole drove one of the last of the big sedans, the Toyota Avalon.

We talk about the transportation side of the Biden Administration's infrastructure plan and the new Kia EV6. We wrap with listener questions about excessive badging, road use taxes and climbing prices of old sports cars.

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Nested Nostalgia Apr 04, 2021

Nicole Wakelin officially joins as a host, and she's driving the 2021 Acura NSX. Sam drove the Volkswagen Atlas Sport Cross, and Dan finally tried out the Ford Mustang Mach-E.

We talk about buying Teslas with bitcoin, Jeep placing EV chargers at trailheads, and Rivians plans for its own charging network. We finish up with your questions, so keep them coming.

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Reporting From The Middle Of America Mar 24, 2021

Dan continues the big Ford Truck run and Sam's in the Honda Odyssey Elite. We get extremely geeky about audio systems for a couple minutes and then move on to the news: the incredible Sabine Schmitz and Sam's experience riding with other racers, Volkswagen's Power Day and a couple of the Jeep Easter Safari concepts.

Rebecca calls in from Sergio on I-80 somewhere with more show news, too.

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Ch-Ch-Changes Mar 16, 2021

There's big show news this week, but first: Rebecca (mostly) raves about the 2021 Toyota Camry TRD, Dan is unsure about the Lincoln Aviator Black Label, but more fond of the Chevrolet Bolt. Sam's falling for the Cadillac Escalade and trying out the Nissan Titan Pro4-X.

We talk important EV battery announcements from GM and LG Chem, Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer, and take a question before wrapping up with some personal news from Rebecca.

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More Questions, Answers, And Names Mar 07, 2021

We tackle a backlog of listener questions along with our usual garage segment. Rebecca and Sam got an early drive in the 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EUV, Rebecca also had the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade, so we compared.

We discuss changing the names of the Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee after concerns were expressed by the chief of the Cherokee Nation. In questions, we ponder the size of door openings on modern vehicles, more complaints about car dealers, life-cycle emissions of electric vs gasoline vehicles and get feedback from a listener on dealer markups and freight charges in Ontario, Canada.

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Nilay Patel On Mustangs, Raptors, Apple Cars and Touchscreens Mar 02, 2021

Dan and Sam handle the garage while Rebecca attends to other things. We're in the 2021 Toyota Tundra SR5 and 2021 Ford Bronco Sport Badlands. A listener emailed us about his Alfa Romeo Giulia and Genesis G70, and for second half of the show, we're joined by Nilay Patel, editor in chief of The Verge. We talk technology and cars including touchscreens and human-machine-interface, Apple cars, moving out of the city in a pandemic and driving Mustangs and Raptors.

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Who Will Win The Electric Truck Battle? Feb 25, 2021

This week, the Volkswagen Passat leaves Rebecca a little bored, while the Ford F-150 King Ranch Hybrid powered smiles from Sam, and Dan made an Ikea run with the ideal vehicle: the 2021 Honda Odyssey Elite.

We talk about interest in electrified pickups, Jaguar and Ford commiting to EVs in Europe, and the mailbag updates us on listener Mach-E buying experiences and we got some feedback about our bad attitudes, too. Speaking of bad attitudes, Rebecca is trying to buy a car and getting the run-around, instead.

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Bonus Episode: Peter Egan on Isettas, Car Writing, and Guitars Feb 19, 2021

An auction post on CarTwitter started this.

Someone was selling an Isetta. And it made Dan think about how that little car has a meaning we only half-understand. It's a deeper symbolism he learned by reading a Peter Egan feature in Road & Track. So we called him up to talk...

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Extremely Underwhelming Vehicle Feb 16, 2021

The wonderful Nicole Wakelin joins to share about cars, SUVs, dealer experiences, and more. Nicole has been driving the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe Premier, while Rebecca had the new Ford Bronco Sport. Sam tried the Mustang Mach-E in some frigid weather and shares thoughts on range and charging in the winter.

Continuing with the Mach-E we dive into listener mail earlier in the show and talk about the challenges posed by traditional dealers to EV adoption. We also address questions about small engine durability and renting SUVs when needed. Finally, we talk about the refreshed 2022 Chevrolet Bolt EV and the new Bolt EUV.

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Electric Vehicles for Teenagers Feb 07, 2021

We mostly skipped the news to answer a backlog of listener questions (keep 'em coming!). We're driving 'Utes! We share impressions of the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E, 2021 Kia Telluride SX, and a second bite with the 2021 Cadillac Escalade 2021

We cover the big Ford-Google cloud/Android deal, built-in dash-cam functionality, used EVs for teenagers, a listener's experience with his Model 3, average and median car prices, EV incentives, OTA updates and more.

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The Three-Wheel Driver Feb 05, 2021

We have another special guest, Alex Roy, cannonballer, podcaster and director of special operations at Argo AI. In the garage, Alex is driving his 1987 Porsche 911 Targa lately. Dan gushes over the new Cadillac Escalade and the Genesis GV80. In Connecticut, Rebecca has been digging the Audi A6 AllRoad, because wagons are the best. And Sam's trying out the Infiniti QX50 Autograph and its VCT engine.

Alex shares opinions on Tesla and automated driving as we talk over the refresh of the Model S and Model X interiors. We shift gears to discuss the end of Elise, Exige and Evora production at Lotus, and we wrap up with listener question about what happens to car functionality when connectivity technology or free subscriptions expire.

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What's In Your Garage? Jan 24, 2021

Listeners Dave, Ben, and Pasha joined us live this week as we discussed the 2021 Kia K5 EX, Hyundai Sonata N-Line, and GMC Canyon AT4. Our guests share their own garages with some surprises, too. We answer a question about the latest Tesla infotainment recall, and Dan's interview with ad executive Henry Louis Gomez of Zubi Advertising about car marketing finishes things off. For early access and more upcoming exclusive content help support the show through Patreon.

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What's a BrightDrop? Jan 18, 2021

We're driving the 2021 Ford F-250 Platinum with Tremor package and 6.7L Diesel, the 2021 Toyota Sequoia Nightshade, and the 2021 Nissan Rogue SL.

We talk about the completion of the FCA/PSA merger to create Stellantis, BMW and Audi dropping subscriptions, GM creating its BrightDrop commercial EV project, and Mazda cancelling the CX-5 diesel.

We wrap with a question that sparks a lively debate of its own.

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Do Logos Even Matter? Jan 13, 2021

This week we're driving the 2021 GM Yukon Denali, Subaru Crosstrek Limited, and a pair of Kia K5 GT-Line sedans.

We talk about GM's new logo, the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L, and the Mercedes-Benz Hyperscreen for the EQS. There's an interview with Ryan Matulich from Ford about the 7.3L "Godzilla" V8, and we wrap with a listener question about EV marketing.

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Highs, Lows, and Minivans Jan 03, 2021

There's not much news to chew over, so we talk about Rebecca's time with the BMW 540i xDrive, and Sam's experience in the refreshed 2021 Chrysler Pacifica AWD

We pick our most and least favorite drives of the 2020, including the Chevrolet Bolt EV, Silverado and Corvette, Ford Mustang Mach-E, the Genesis the GV80 and G80, and the new Hyundai Sonata. Lowlights include the infotainment systems in the new Subaru Legacy and Outback, and Mazda CX-9. And then we close the first show of 2021 out with some prognostication for the year ahead.

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Adios, 2020 Dec 28, 2020

For the final episode of 2020, Rebecca had a pair of Lexus LS500s, Sam spent a day with the redesigned 2021 Kia Sorento and a week with the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer.

We cover the rumors of an Apple car and wind up the year with a bunch of listener questions including electric restomods, modern vehicle ergonomics and corporate culture. We all hope you enjoy the show and keep listening into 2021 and beyond.

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Robot Dogs and Taxis Dec 21, 2020

2020 is winding down and we talk about the Ford F-350 Tremor, Land Rover Defender 110, 2021 Transit T150, Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro and the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban with GM's 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder diesel engine.

In the news, we discuss the new Zoox robotaxi, Hyundai's purchase of Boston Dynamics, and Lordstown Motors getting together with Camping World.

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The Mach-E edition Dec 15, 2020

This special episode of Wheel Bearings is dedicated to just one topic, the 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E. Sam had and opportunity to drive the Mach-E and also record an interview with Ford's Chief Product Platform and Operations Officer, Hau Thai-Tang about how the company's product development system has changed and how lessons from Mach-E will impact other products.

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Not So Uber Anymore Dec 15, 2020

It's just Dan and Sam this time. Sam's driving the 2021 Volvo XC60 Recharge Polestar Engineered and the 2021 Toyota Corolla XSE. Dan comes back with a more complete take on the Cadillac CT5 550T.

In the news, Uber off-loads the automated driving group to Aurora. Sam talks about his first drive of the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport and we answer some listener mail.

Wheel Bearings has launched a Patreon. If you like the show and would like to chip in toward the cost of producing and hosting it you can join at https://www.patreon.com/wheelbearingsmedia

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Old Enough to Know Better, Too Young to Care Dec 07, 2020

We reconvene to talk about Rebecca's time with the VW Altas Cross Sport, Sam's spin in the 2021 Toyota Supra, and Dan's bonding with the Subaru Crosstrek Sport and Cadillac CT5.

We cover the new Hyundai Motor Group electric-global modular platform, Cadillac dealer buyouts, and ICE bans. We eulogize the VW Passat to close the show before answering some questions.

Finally, Wheel Bearings has launched a Patreon. If you like the show and would like to chip in toward the cost of producing and hosting it you can join at https://www.patreon.com/wheelbearingsmedia

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Bad HMI Design Decisions Nov 22, 2020

It's another Sunday session for us. Dan drives the Lincoln Corsair, Sam discusses the 2021 Genesis G80, and Rebecca shares thoughts on the Mazda CX-9.

Both the Genesis and Mazda were marred by some non-trivial human machine interface design decisions, and that led to a lively discussion about designing for actual users.

The 2021 Ford F-150 is out and Sam shared his first driving impressions. Infiniti has a new fastback crossover "inspired by the FX" but not a direct replacement. We wrap up with a listener question about about paying for car apps.

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An Offensive Face Nov 19, 2020

Sam has been driving the Audi Q7 Prestige, Dan finally got his turn in the Hyundai Venue, and Rebecca shares her thoughts on the Lexus RX450hL.

In the news, BMW and Ford launched two very different electric vehicles: the iX and the e-Transit. Sam also shares some thoughts on new lower-cost lidar sensors coming to market and we wrap up with a couple of listener questions.

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Questions, Questions, Questions Nov 06, 2020

This week in the garage, Rebecca has the Hyundai Ioniq Electric which is quite a different take on a battery powered vehicle than the Kona she drove a couple of weeks back. The plug-in theme on the east coast continues as Dan still had the Chevy Bolt. In Michigan, Sam had the opposite of these vehicles with the Lexus LC500 Convertible, a true grand touring sled.

Instead of news, our intrepid crew just tackled a bunch of listener questions this week including old car values, over-sized grilles, automatic stop-start systems and Tesla's full self-driving beta.

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The Right Vehicle For The Job Oct 27, 2020

It's a spliced-together show this week. Sam and Rebecca kick off the garage with the 2021 Toyota Sienna hybrid and the Audi S5 Sportback. Then Dan and Sam discuss the 2021 Nissan Rogue and 2020 Chevrolet Bolt. (Spoiler alert, Dan loves the Bolt.)

Topics include the Genesis GV80, GMC Hummer EV pickup, and Sam and Rebecca wrap up with a couple of listener questions.

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Green Dragons and Organs Oct 21, 2020

This week Sam was in the Hyundai Venue SEL. Dan had the 2021 Kia Seltos SX Turbo, and Rebecca made do with the Audi Q7.

For this show, Jonathan Klinger, VP of Car Culture at Hagerty Insurance hung out for a wide-ranging discussion that covered cross-country drives in hundred-year-old cars, teaching kids stickshift, classic restoration, and musical instruments. We wove through a lot of topics, but always came back to the cars.

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Keeping It Running Oct 08, 2020

Everyone is back this time, and we've been driving the Honda Civic Type-R, Hyundai Kona EV, Toyota 86 GT, and AWD Ford Transit.

Sam got a first taste of the redesigned 2021 Nissan Rogue, and we talked about California mandating new vehicles go all electric by 2035. The show wraps up with a bunch of listener emails which you can submit at feedback@wheelbearings.media.

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How Much Is Too Much? Oct 04, 2020

Sam and Dan take it this week while Auntie Rebecca hung out with her nephews. Dan drove the Lexus ES350 F-Sport and the Mazda CX-30. Sam got reaquainted with the 2020 Volvo XC90 T8 plug-in hybrid.

In news, Sam got to take a farewell drive in the 2020 Ford Shelby GT350R Mustang Heritage Edition as production of this high-revving pony draws to a close. The guys also discuss Sam's diatribe on the ridiculous performance being put into today's vehicles, especially EVs. Ford also released full specs on the 2021 F-150 including the PowerBoost hybrid. As usual we wrap up with listener questions such as what minivan to buy.

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Who Gets to Sell the EVs? Sep 25, 2020

Sam and Rebecca take the reins this week, and they had lots to talk about. There were tons of cars - Rebecca did the edia drive for the Subaru Crosstrek and Land Rover Defender. In between she drove the Toyota Avalon hybrid. Sam had the Cadillac CT4-V and the Hyundai Ioniq hybrid.

News includes In the news, Michigan lawmakers are trying to shut down Tesla and Rivian sales loopholes. Volkswagen has revealed all the details on the ID.4., and finally, we wrap up again with listener questions.

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Into The Air Sep 16, 2020

Sam drives the smoothest diesel he's ever tried in the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado. Dan gets some seat time in the 2020 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring and Rebecca tries Toyota's highs and lows with both the CH-R compact crossover and the Lexus LC500 Convertible.

We talk about the GM-Nikola strategic partnership announced this week, the reveal of the Lucid Air electric sedan, and some listener questions.

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Jeep Plugs In Sep 03, 2020

There's a (couple) new Jeeps in town. The Wagoneer returns in Grand fashion, and the Wrangler gets zapped with the new 4XE plug-in hybrid model.

Rebecca shares her thoughts about on the Volvo XC90 T6, Dan's driving the limited-edition Series.White Subaru WRX, and Sam took the Cadillac CT5 on a road trip.

We also check out the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class and finish up with your questions.

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High Performance Bargains Aug 28, 2020

Bargain is a relative term. Sam's ride this week could be the performance bargain of the decade, the 2020 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray. Rebecca was driving the Genesis G70, and Dan tried the Jeep Gladiator Mojave, which is no bargain, but still very good. We talk Strategic Vision's Brand Equity Index and JD Power's Technology Experience Index before diving into a bunch of listener questions.

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Pineapple Pizza? Absolutely…Or Not Aug 21, 2020

Dan's back this week but before we addressed the truly pressing issue of whether pineapple is a suitable pizza topping, we talked about the BMW 228i xDrive Gran Coupe, Cadillac XT6, Subaru Outback, and Ram 1500.

In the news, Rebecca got a first in-person look at the new Ford Bronco while Sam got to ride in it. Ram has gotten the Hellcat bug with the new 702-hp Ram 1500 TRX, and we finish with answers to some listener queestions.

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The Interior and Tech of the Ford Bronco Family Aug 13, 2020

Sam speaks with Rob Gelardi, interior design manager of the 2021 Ford Bronco 2-door and 4-door and Scott Anderson, interior design manager of the 2021 Bronco Sport. The discussion then turns to the technology side with Bronco technology strategy chief Donna Bell.

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The True Successor To The F1 Aug 13, 2020

This week it's just Rebecca and Sam. Rebecca shares her experience with the Kia Seltos. Meanwhile Sam has been driving the BMW X3 xDrive30e, the smaller plug-in hybrid SUV from Munich (via Spartanburg).

Ford announced another changing of the guard as Jim Farley prepares to succeed Jim Hackett as CEO. Cadillac finally had the delayed public introduction of the Lyriq electric crossover, and Hyundai has decided to replace the current Ioniq with a whole sub-brand of Ioniq electric vehicles. Finally, Sam shares some history with his first exposure to the legendary McLaren F1 before our team discusses it's true succcessor, the Gordon Murray Automotive T.50

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How to Expand the EV Market Aug 06, 2020

Rebecca is back from a vacation with the Infiniti Q50 Red Sport 400, capped off by the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43. Sam tried out the Toyota Highlander and Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, while Dan sampled the Nissan Versa.

We talk all about electrification with the Ford Mustang Mach-E 1400 and its seven motors, GM and EVGo deploying 2,700 DC fast charging stations, and we finish with listener emails about towing, premium compact crossovers and what sedan to buy.

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Stash The Doors, Hit The Trails Jul 21, 2020

It's Bronco time! Two door, four door, and Bronco Sport are all on the list. We talk about the Nissan Ariya EV, too, and the announcement of Stellantis as the name for a merged FCA and PSA.

We're driving the Honda CR-V Hybrid, BMW 840i, BMW X3e, Fiat 500X, and Ford F350 Platinum.

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Zoom #2 - Subscriptions All Around Jul 14, 2020

The team reconvened this week for another live Zoom session with some listeners. In the garage, Sam reiterates his love for traditional station wagons and why they are better than any SUV or crossover for most people as he discusses the Volvo V60 T8. Rebecca spent time with the refreshed 2020 Nissan Titan Pro-4X and the all-wheel-drive Toyota Prius. Meanwhile Dan was in the Toyota Tacoma TRD-Pro.

In the news, our crew discusses the announcement of a family of Ford Broncos, the upcoming Audi Q4 e-tron Sportback and the coming of subscriptions for features like heated seats.

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There's A New F-150 In Town Jul 01, 2020

Our intrepid trio reconvenes to talk about the all-new, cleverly updated Ford F-150. The lineup now includes a hybrid, on-board generator, and more thoughtful features than a Swiss Army knife. We talk about driving the Genesis G90, Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, Buick Encore GX, and Cadillac XT4. It wraps up with a couple listener questions, so listen and let us know what's on your mind!

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From Miata to Aston Martin Jun 26, 2020

With Dan absent, Rebecca discusses back-to-back Aston Martin experiences with the Vantage and DB11. Sam again professes his disdain for anything that isn't a Mazda Miata after driving the more powerful 2020 edition. In the news, Nissan launched a redesigned Rogue but forgot to put in a hybrid version. Speaking of hybrids, Lexus didn't announce one for the revamped 2021 IS either, but given that they are a division of Toyota, an electrified model almost assuredly is coming.

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Stupid Stocks and Plug-in Hybrids Jun 17, 2020

Rebecca is out hanging with a real-life friend for this episode so it's just Dan and Sam. Sam has been driving the 2020 Hyundai Palisade while Dan got his first taste of Nissan's variable compression 2.0-liter turbo four in the Infiniti QX50. In the news, we discuss the electric range and fuel efficiency of the new Ford Escape plug-in hybrid and compare it to the upcoming Toyota Rav4 Prime. Nikola Motors has some very interesting technology and a planned business model for hydrogen fuel cell long-haul trucks. The problem is Nikola has yet to deliver, has zero revenue and a ridiculous stock price. We wrap up with discussion of electric Lemons racing and listener questions.

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Hybrids, hybrids, and more hybrids Jun 05, 2020

This episode is extra-packed. We go twice around the circle with the Nissan Altima Platinum VC-T, Chevy Silverado Trail Boss and Lexus GS350. Round two is all hybrid all the time: Camry Hybrid, Honda CR-V Hybrid, Hyundai Sonata Hybrid.

New we talk about is Ford's heater disinfectant hack, the Mustang Mach 1, the 20201 Acura TLX, and Andy Palmer's ousting at Aston Martin.

It winds up with a couple of emails. Thanks for listening!

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£500 Million To Learn That It’s Hard To Make Money Building Cars May 25, 2020

We're back after a bit of a break. Sam's new favorite Jeep is the Gladiator Mojave. He also tried the Wrangler Ecodiesel, while Rebecca was in the Toyota 86 Hakone edition. Dan tried the Nissan Leaf SL Plus, and insists it's the best car the company makes.

In the news, we discuss James Dyson spending £500 million to learn that it's hard to build a car company. (We coulda told him that for a few million). Toyota unveiled the 2021 Sienna and Venza, and the company is also celebrating 20 years of Prius hybrids.

Finally, Dan got a briefing from Fiat Chrysler on its new Uconnect 5 infotainment system built on Google's Android Automotive operating system and launching this fall on the refreshed Pacifica minivan.

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What Happens Next? May 19, 2020

This week Rebecca has been self-isolating in the new Toyota Rav4 TRD Off-Road edition, Sam has been enjoying time in the Mazda CX-30 and Dan is going old school in the Lexus GX460. The team has a lively debate on the merits of letting Georgia teenagers skip the road test on the way to getting a driver's license. The conversation then turns to what happens to the auto industry as the pandemic hopefully subsides and then we finish off with a couple of listener questions and an interview that Sam did with Jaguar Formula E driver James Calado.

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Zoom-Zoom #1 Apr 23, 2020

The Wheel Bearings team of Rebecca Lindland, Dan Roth and Sam Abuelsamid take to Zoom for a live episode of chatting with the listeners.

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Destination Charges Apr 19, 2020

Technology let us down near the end of this episode, but we got in a good discussion of the 2020 Lexus UX250h Luxury, Hyundai Venue, Subaru Ascent and Toyota Highlander.

For news, we talked about manuals returning to MINI, the next generation RWD I-6 Mazda 6, and the new Genesis G80. We finish up with some commentary about destination charges and we managed to answer at least one question about how the industry is holding up during this crisis before our app decided it'd had enough.

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Preserving Your Ride Apr 10, 2020

Bentley brought the launch of the Flying Spur to Rebecca's doorstep. We also sample the 2020 GMC Acadia, Sam wrung every mile out of the 2020 Audi e-Tron, and Dan tried the completely charming 2020 Toyota Yaris XLE.

We talk Honda and GM partnering on EVs, Autocar's EV range tests, EV Mustangs, and then we take your questions.

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Press On Regardless Mar 29, 2020

As the lockdown continues, Rebecca spent time with the Jeep Gladiator in extra-quiet Connecticut. Sam got Android Auto working in the Toyota RAV-4 Hybrid without infotainment crashes, while Dan sampled the pint-sized Hyundai Kona.

We dive into the Navigant Research Automated Driving Leaderboard report and robotaxi safety. Racing looks different for now, and we talk about Sim racing and its excellent ratings so far. Then we ogle Audi's virtual backgrounds images and finish up with a few listener questions.

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Sheltering In Place But Still Driving (for now) Mar 21, 2020

To start, we ponder the near-term future. Then we get to cars, including the Hyundai Venue, Nissan Rogue Sport, BMW M340i, and the Ford pickup lineup from Ranger to Super Duty. For news, we talk about the 20201 Hyundai Elantra and follow up on GM EV day. We finish with some of your emails. If that seems like a long show, you're right. Just the thing for quarantine.

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GM Gets Plugged In Mar 09, 2020

It's a splice-fest! First, Dan and Sam talk about driving the 2020 Infiniti Q50 Edition 30 and the Ford Ranger XLT. Some of the early impact of COVID-19 is pondered, and development mules like the Plymouth "Prangler" finish it up. For part 2, Sam and Rebecca review General Motors EV day, including a new battery design and previews of 12 upcoming electric vehicles.

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Corvettes In The Desert, The Cheapest Nissan, Consumer Reports Top Picks Feb 28, 2020

Rebecca gives first drive impressions of the 2020 Chevrolet Corvette. Sam has been driving the value-conscious 2020 Nissan Versa and the fuel-hungry Armada. Dan shares impressions of the Infiniti QX50. We wrap with a run through Consumer Reports 2020 Top 10 cars selections.

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Dependability, the Badger, and in-car exercise routines Feb 14, 2020

Lots of driving impressions this time! We start with a 200,000 mile 2008 Honda Odyssey, and then cover the Ford Explorer ST and Escape Titanium, Mazda 3 (with a manual!), Jeep Gladiator Rubicon, and Honda Civic Sport Touring.

News includes the Nikola Badger fuel-cell hybrid pickup, innovations from automotive supplier Faurecia, and the 2020 J.D. Power dependability survey.

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Live (ish) from LA and Chicago Feb 07, 2020

Escalade! Hummer EV truck! Chicago Auto Show! Jeep Mojave, Ford GT Liquid Carbon, and Joe Eberhardt!

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Ep. 138 - It's All About the Context Jan 31, 2020

It's premium SUVs in the driveway this week. Sam's in the Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring (complete with a faulty 12V battery) and Lexus LX570. Dan went from Mercedes-Benz GLC300 to the Polestar-Engineered Volvo XC90. Rebecca has been enjoying open-top life in the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon. In the news, Sam attended the Cruise Origin reveal, and we get into a discussion of our approach to reviewing vehicles and addressing reader comments on differing opinions.

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Big Screens and Blimps - CES 2020 Jan 17, 2020

Rebecca and Sam are back from CES with lots to discuss, including:

• Nissan two-motor mule for the Ariya electric crossover

• A flight in the Goodyear blimp

• A ride in the Audi AI:ME and Yandex autonomous cars

• Mercedes-Benz AVTR

• Sony Vision S and Magna International

• Hyundai SA-1

Here's what we were driving: Rebecca had the 2020 Toyota Corolla XSE, Sam was in the Genesis G80 Sport and Dan had the 2020 Ram Rebel EcoDiesel.

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An interview with Radenso Radar. Watch your six. And your three. And your twelve. Jan 10, 2020

While Rebecca and Sam are at CES, Dan spoke with John Dandrow and Randy Bader of radar detector maker Radenso Radar. The company brought a clever new approach to protection to SEMA in November 2019, and the conversation covers the state of the art of signal detection.

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Who's Going To Buy All The EVs? Dec 31, 2019

For this mid-holiday podcast, Sam is driving the 2020 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport. It's...better. Rebecca is in the Ram 1500 e-Torque Hemi and the Lexus LX570, and Dan's still putting miles on the 2020 Honda CR-V.

In the news, VW aggressively plans to build 1 million EVs by 2023, two years sooner than originally planned. The company has also developed a robotic charger, which we discuss. In China,Tesla plans to start deliveries of Chinese-assembled Model 3s and we answer some listener questions to wrap it all up for 2019.

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SUVs, Big, Little and Faux Dec 27, 2019

The whole crew is back with both Dan and Rebecca sampling the aging Acura MDX A-Spec. Dan also had the Honda CR-V Touring. Since our last team gathering, Rebecca and Sam both drove the Mazda CX-30 and declare it the best small crossover. Sam has also been driving the Volvo V60 T5 and the Hyundai Santa Fe. In the news, GM has launched the first of its new generation of full-size SUVs from Chevrolet and Cadillac declares the ICE age over as it plans to go electric with new model names.

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Sedans, SUVs and More Cybertruck Dec 10, 2019

This week Rebecca is off tending to her elderly mother so it's just the boys. Dan has driven the Dodge Durango SRT and Genesis G70 while Sam has been in the Honda Passport and Toyota Avalon Hybrid. GM and LG Chem form a lithium ion cell production joint venture and Mazda considers electrification options for the next generation Miata. Sam has an interview with Audi e-Tron manager Matt Mostafaei from the LA Auto Show. Finally we address some listener emails (keep them coming at feedback@wheelbearings.media) including one on the Tesla Cybertruck.

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Electric Trucks Nov 28, 2019

Rebecca has been driving the 2019 Mazda3 AWD sedan, Sam has been in its bigger brother, the 6 Signature, and Dan spent his time in the GMC Sierra AT4 CarbonPro complete with a composite bed and a Swiss Army Knife tailgate. Staying with trucks, we discuss the debut of the Tesla Cybertruck and pros and cons of electric pickup trucks. We finish up with some highlights from the Los Angeles auto show including the Audi e-Tron Sportback, Kia Seltos and Hyundai Vision T concept

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Ford Mustang Mach-E, Dave Pericak interview Nov 19, 2019

Ford has lifted the veil on the Mustang Mach-E. It's an electric SUV with a lot of hopes and goals riding on it. We take a deep dive into what we know so far, and Sam got a few minutes with Dave Pericak, who is the director of Ford Icons, and deeply involved with Mach-E development.

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Not Your Grandfather's Mustang Nov 18, 2019

This week the crew has a range of crossovers and one more roadster before winter hits the northern part of the country (at least in the northeast, Sam just got 8 inches in Detroit). Sam has been driving the Volvo XC60 T6, Dan tries out the new Ford Escape and Rebecca split her time between the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross and Fiat 124 Spider. In the news, we discuss a Ford Raptor being forceably removed from blocking an EV charger, Tata searching for electrification partners for Jaguar Land Rover and the official name of Ford's new EV, the Mustang Mach-E. We wrap up with a couple of listener questions.

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From Basic to Supercharged - Shelby GT500, FCA/PSA, Affordable MINI Cooper EV Nov 07, 2019

We're driving mainstream compacts, luxury sedans, and the $100,000 Ford Shelby GT500. Topics include the seemingly imminent merger of FCA and PSA, and the surprisingly reasonable price of the new MINI Cooper SE EV.

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Argo AI CEO Bryan Salesky - automated driving systems with Ford and VW, multi-city AV testing, LIDAR, Maps, and more Oct 25, 2019

The whole crew is on the call to talk with Bryan Salesky, CEO and co-founder of Argo AI. Argo is the company developing the production automated driving system for Ford and VW and Bryan shares his thoughts on testing AVs in multiple cities, LIDAR, HD Maps and much more.

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Ep. 127 - Ford’s Jim Farley On Building Mobility Technology, Services and Brands Oct 21, 2019

For this special episode Sam sat down with Jim Farley, Ford's president, new businesses, technology & strategy to talk about has been learned about mobility services, automated driving and brands.

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Wheelbearings Episode 126 Oct 19, 2019

Rebecca trades seats with George Kennedy from the Boston Globe and CarGurus, and we talk about Sam's time with the Honda Civic Touring sedan, and a road trip to Pittsburgh with the Hyundai Veloster N. Both Dan and George drove the new Subaru Legacy and share thoughts about the big touch screen. We also dive into lots of electric vehicle stories with Volvo introducing the XC40 Recharge, second-generation Toyota Mirai, and Bosch silicon carbide chips for more EV efficiency. We also talk about the Fordpass app and charging network, and finished up with the breaking news of a possible Hummer revival as electric trucks.

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Wheelbearings Episode 125 Oct 11, 2019

With the whole crew back in action, Sam has been driving the Lexus LS500h. Rebecca samples a couple of luxury SUVs in the form of the Audi Q8 and Volvo XC90 T8. Meanwhile Dan learns that you can trail-brake a Toyota Sienna minivan before jumping into the Subaru Ascent. In California, PG&E has been shutting down power to try prevent wild fires and it's impacting EV drivers. Tesla has released a less than fully baked Smart Summon feature and AAA tests a bunch of other driver assist systems that serve to demonstrate that human drivers need to stay alert.

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Wheelbearings Episode 124 Oct 03, 2019

Rebecca and Sam perform an automotive duet. Sam drove the Honda Civic Type-R for a week while Rebecca had the Toyota Rav4 hybrid and Cadillac XT4. Sam had just returned from driving the new Lincoln Corsair and we dive into the differences between the two.

Canoo unveiled its small electric van. Amazon ordered 100,000 electric delivery vans from Rivian and Acura unveiled a new ad campaign that focuses on driving. Finally, Hyundai and Aptiv team up on automated driving.

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Wheelbearings Episode 123 Sep 24, 2019

Rebecca has been off cavorting on a new Lexus yacht before coming home to move some stuff in the Toyota Sienna. Meanwhile Sam has enjoying the premium cabin of the Kia Telluride and Dan does a bit of four wheel drifting in the Audi Q3. Rebecca and Sam each got to try out the 2020 Ford Escape in gas and hybrid form and found it has shifted more toward its Focus sibling. Sam also got to check out the interesting new user interface of the upcoming Byton M-Byte during his latest jaunt to Silicon Valley.

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Wheelbearings Episode 122 Sep 11, 2019

This week we have lots of vehicles to talk about. Rebecca drove the Mercedes-AMG GTC Roadster to the US Open, and the Honda Accord Hybrid in SoCal. Sam discusses the Mazda CX-5 Diesel and the base Volkswagen Atlas. Dan shares his take on the Toyota 4Runner. Then we dive into the Porsche Taycan and how we evaluate vehicles.

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Wheelbearings Episode 121 Aug 31, 2019

The gang is all back together this week. Since we last talked about the garage, Sam has been driving the Lincoln Navigator in San Francisco, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio in Ohio and Jeep Gladiator in Michigan. Rebecca escapes a ticket in the Honda Civic Sport and Dan has been road tripping in the Cadillac XT6.

We review the goings on at Monterey Car Week and the legacy of Ferdinand Piech.

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Wheel Bearings #120 - Ludicrous Aug 22, 2019

This week Dan and Rebecca are travelling so Sam is joined by Ed Niedermeyer to talk about his new book, Ludicrous, the Unvarnished Story of Tesla Motors. The book is available at Amazon and other booksellers. https://www.amazon.com/Ludicrous-Unvarnished-Story-Tesla-Motors/dp/1948836122?imprToken=xJ8lwvUGsWzWGV27xP.cUQ&slotNum=0&tag=samsthought-20&linkCode=w13&linkId=MHO5Y3G2GPR357QG&ref_=assoc_res_sw_us_dka_cra_t0_result_1&ref-refURL=https%3A%2F%2Fsam.abuelsamid.com%2F

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Wheelbearings Episode 119 Aug 09, 2019

It's a slow news week so the crew is just talking about the cars they've driving. Rebecca opens it up with the second-generation Audi Q3 while Sam has been in the 2019 Ram 1500 Laramie. Dan proclaims his love for the Mazda Miata which remains one of the last true roadsters available. Rebecca and Sam got to drive the 2020 Nissan Versa in Nashville and Rebecca tells the story of driving the 2020 Subaru Outback in the wilds of Northern California.

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Wheelbearings Episode 118 Aug 02, 2019

The whole crew is back this week as they delve into the garage. Sam drove the BMW X2 M35i, Rebecca had the Volvo S60 sedan and Dan sampled the GMC Acadia. The Corvette C8 conversation continues with two-thirds of the team having now seen it in person. While feelings about the center console have been slightly tempered, they still aren't positive. The GM theme concludes with Sam's thoughts on the 2020 Cadillac XT6 before we wind down the evening with a couple of listener questions.

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Wheelbearings Episode 117 Jul 26, 2019

This week Rebecca is off gallavanting around northern California in the new Subaru Outback. That leaves Dan and Sam to discuss living with the Ford Shelby GT350 Mustang, the Toyota Rav4 Hybrid and the Fiat 500C Abarth. Coming out of the garage, the discussion turns to the eighth generation Chevrolet Corvette. After more than 40 decades of tilting at this automotive windmill, Don Sherman can now finally have some peace knowing that there is a real production mid-engine Corvette. The boys finish off with a chat about turbochargers and BMTS Technologies.

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Episode #116 - Electrifying Racing Jul 16, 2019

This time around Sam and Rebecca sat down on the rooftop of the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge where they were staying while attending the finale of the 2018-2019 FIA Formula E season. Our duo talks about driving the Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro and the Nissan Leaf Plus. After the garage talk they dive into electric racing with the Jaguar i-Pace e-Trophy series and Formula E. The show wraps up with a talk Rebecca recorded by Alan McNish, team manager of the Audi Sport ABT Schaeffler team.

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Wheelbearings Episode 115 Jul 13, 2019

Dan and Sam talk about the Volkswagen ID.R Goodwood speed record, the Volkswagen/Ford/Argo.ai deal announced Friday, and the 2020 Hyundai Palisade. Sam drove the Range Rover Evoque while Dan was in the Volkswagen Jetta GLI S and Tiguan SE.

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Wheelbearings Episode 114 Jul 02, 2019

Dan is back and talking about the BMW X2 M35i that he used to shuttle his kids around on a family trip. Rebecca goes beyond the infotainment of the Lexus RC350 F-Sport and Sam swaps a Rav4 with flaky bluetooth for a Toyota Camry Hybrid XLE. In the news, the crew discusses GPS spoofing and high-definition maps. Rebecca and Sam went to the Fiat Chrysler What's New event and talked with Transmission and powertrain head Jeff Lux about electrification and brand management. Speaking of electrification, the new Ferrari SF90 Stradale is a plug-in hybrid with a front-wheel-drive electric mode.

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Wheelbearings Podcast 113 Jun 25, 2019

Dan was traveling on family business this week so it's just Sam and Rebecca. Sam sings the praises of the 2019 Mazda 3 and laments bluetooth causing the infotainment system in the Toyota Rav 4 to crash. Speaking of bluetooth issues and Toyota adjacent vehicles, Rebecca had issues trying to connect to the Lexus RC350 F Sport but very much enjoyed driving the new Hyundai Palisade. The crew also discusses designing the technology for consumers and how to help them understand what it can and cannot do before finishing up with news of the BMW Vision M Next concept.

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Wheelbearings Episode 112 Jun 19, 2019

This week Rebecca and Sam had very different hybrid experiences on opposite coasts. Rebecca has been enjoying the thrill of the Acura NSX while Sam got to sample the 2020 Ford Explorer. They also both to sample the third generation Kia Soul in faux crossover flavor and find it continues to be a favorite small car. Meanwhile Dan has been getting around in the latest Nissan Altima.

GM is reportedly considering reviving the once gas guzzling Hummer brand to build EVs. Aurora Innovation is shifting alliances and taking on new partners to develop automated driving systems and Mazda is eschewing touchscreens, something two-thirds of trio wholeheartedly approve of.

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Wheelbearings Episode 111 Jun 11, 2019

We drive the Mercedes-AMG C43 Cabriolet, 2019 Hyundai Tucson, and Cadillac Escalade ESV. Sam rides subways in NYC, and we talk about the failed Fiat Chrysler/Renault merger and where it might go next. VW, maybe? Speaking of VW, we talk about the new ad campaign that apologizes for diesel as they shift to electric vehicles.

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Wheelbearings Episode 110 Jun 03, 2019

Rebecca and Dan both sampled the new Kia Telluride. Dan also tried the Mercedes-Benz G550. Sam's utilities were both electrified with the Lexus UX250h F-Sport and new Range Rover P400e PHEV. In the news we cover the FCA/Renault merger chatter, the impact of new potential tariffs on the auto industry and new "sport" sedans from Cadillac. Rebecca also discusses her time at the Heels and Wheels event in California. Check out the Wheelbearings.media site for a video Sam made to answer some common autonomous mobility questions.

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Wheelbearings Episode 109 May 17, 2019

The crew is back with the Chevy Blazer, Ford Ranger and Mazda Miata RF. Sam has been driving the Audi E-Tron Quattro in northern California. Amy Mirentic talks Ford Icons, Mazda is bringing back inline sixes and GM Cruise gets more cash.

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Wheelbearings Episode 108 May 03, 2019

Dan doesn’t like convertibles after driving the BMW M850i. Rebecca has a noisy seat in the Nissan Maxima and thinks the Hyundai Tucson is a great value. Sam finds that the Ford Ranger rides a lot better with 600 lbs of dirt in the back and the interior materials don’t feel up to snuff for the price of the Lariat.

In the news, with Ford finally connecting its vehicles, it’s starting to roll out new services that leverage the connectivity. We also discuss who’s to blame when a driver that knows Tesla Autopilot misbehaves, continues to use it and ends up dead.

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Wheelbearings Episode 107 Apr 26, 2019

The gang are all back in their respective homes this week as we catch up on a couple of weeks of driving. Sam has had the 2019 Cadillac XT4 and Ford Edge Titanium. Rebecca had the BMW i3 Rex and Lexus NX300 while Dan had the latest Lincoln Navigator and Lexus ES350. We also talk about Ford's investment in Rivian, Tesla Mobility Day, and structural adhesives (it's fascinating, we promise!)

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Wheel Bearings Episode 106 - Live From New York! Apr 18, 2019

Rebecca and Sam record live from the sanctuary interior of a 2019 Lincoln Navigator at the New York Auto Show

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Wheelbearings Episode 105 Apr 15, 2019

This week Sam and Rebecca both discuss their experience with the Nissan Murano. Rebecca has also been in the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV while Dan drives the Honda Pilot.

In the news, four decades of tilting at mid-engine wind mills finally pays off for Don Sherman as GM confirms the 2020 Chevrolet Corvette will debut on July 18, 2019. Tesla really doesn't want to sell any $35,000 Model 3s and the gang discuss the challenges of updating a 50 year old airplane for the 21st century.

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Wheelbearings Episode 104 Apr 06, 2019

This week Rebecca describes a road trip she took in the Buick Regal with her millennial nephew to watch some sportsball. She also samples the new generation Mazda3 sedan and we ponder the potential of Mazda to reposition itself as a more premium brand. Sam drives the BMW X4 and isn't repulsed while Dan is less enamored with the latest Toyota Tundra TRD Pro.

In the news, Ford's fourth-generation Escape is revealed and it's becoming more of a city slicker. It also brings back the hybrid and adds a plug-in hybrid. The Audi e-tron Quattro has a range number and it's disappointing and Rebecca tries out the Jeep Gladiator.

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Wheelbearings Episode 103 Mar 29, 2019

This week, Rebecca finishes up with the Volvo V60 and tries out the new Ram 2500 in Manhattan. Sam has also been in a big truck with the 2019 Nissan Titan Pro4X while Dan goes small with the Hyundai Kona Ultimate. In the news, Lincoln releases the first teaser image for the Corsair compact crossover while Geely ponders stepping in to save the Smart brand from oblivion. Speaking of smarts, the European Commission is moving to make a whole suite of driver assistance features mandatory including automatic speed limiting.

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Wheelbearings Episode 102 Mar 23, 2019

This week Sam has returned from California and after driving the 2019 Kia Niro EV, he has a rant about electric vehicle drivers that think they have a right to park right next to the building even when they aren't charging. Rebecca has been driving the lovely new Volvo V60 and Dan has the "first ever" Ford Edge ST. In the news, the crew ponders the new Cadillac CT5 that was shown ahead of its public debut at the New York Auto Show. Porsche drops some teasers of the upcoming Taycan electric sedan and Fisker pivots with a new production, retail and service strategy. Sam talks with Henrik Fisker and the team opines.

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Wheelbearings Episode 101 Mar 16, 2019

The whole crew is back in the same time zone this week as Rebecca shares her thoughts on the new Toyota Rav4 Hybrid, Sam drives the refreshed 2019 Nissan Maxima and Dan plays with the Ford F-150 Raptor. The mythical mid-engine Chevrolet Corvette has been Don Sherman's personal unicorn for nearly 50 years and the first prototypes go back even farther than that. It now seems closer than ever and yet still so far away and we discuss why.

Cadillac is adopting a new badging scheme similar to what Audi launched in Europe a couple of years ago and no seems to be happy about it. We discuss whether to just dispense with the badges entirely. Meanwhile Rivian seems to be developer a modular bed system for its upcoming electric pickup truck.

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Wheelbearings Episode 100 Mar 08, 2019

As Wheel Bearings breaks into triple digits we have one more two part show with Rebecca still in the sub-continent. In the first half of the show, Sam and Rebecca talk more about transportation in India and the challenges of deploying electric vehicles there. Sam has been driving the Genesis G70. Then Rebecca and Sam dive into some of the highlights of the 2019 Geneva Motor Show including the Honda E prototype, a new era of coachbuilding based on electric vehicle platforms like the VW MEB, the Alfa Romeo Tonale and some new Aston Martins.

Meanwhile Dan has been driving the 2019 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon. Dan and Sam dive into the new plug-in hybrid versions of the Jeep Renegade and Compass coming next year and Tesla's new Supercharger V3.

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Wheelbearings Episode 99 Mar 02, 2019

This week, location and schedule constraints meant that the show was recorded in two parts. Sam talked with Rebecca while she was on vacation in India and then picked up later with Dan back in his native time zone. Sam drove the Hyundai Kona Electric and Rebecca describes transportation in India. Tesla made some news just hours before recording by finally releasing the mythical $35,000 model 3 and simultaneously announcing the closure of almost all of its stores. Being in India gives Rebecca some insight into why Ford's adoption of What3Words is meaningful.

Meanwhile back in New England, Dan has been driving the 2019 Volkswagen Golf SE and pondering the big Detroit plant investment announcement that Fiat Chrysler made this week. Dan and Sam also dive into the new Polestar 2 and we get an update on US availability of the Volkswagen Arteon.

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Wheelbearings Episode 98 Feb 25, 2019

This week we're talking luxury as Rebecca drives the Maserati Levante, Dan has the Mercedes-Benz E450 and Sam relaxes in the Kia K900. At the upcoming Geneva Motor Show, Anton Piech, son of Ferdinand and great grandson of Ferdinand Porsche launches his own car company with an electric sports car. Ford has more trouble with emissions and fuel economy testing, Elon Musk proves again that he shouldn't have a twitter account as Tesla General Counsel bails after less than two months at the company and IIHS tests pedestrian detection and braking systems. A reminder not to rely too much on technology to save you.

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Wheelbearings Episode 97 Feb 16, 2019

This week our intrepid trio has been tackling everything from mainstream to super-luxury. Rebecca went to rainy Palm Springs to sample the Rolls-Royce Cullinan and more from BMW before returning home to the 2019 Kia Forte. In between, Sam had the 2019 Mazda CX-9 and Dan drove the 2019 Lincoln Nautilus which leads into a discussion of who is doing luxury right. In the news, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration fudged the numbers to show Tesla Autopilot was safer than it really was. Jaguar Land Rover debuts a new inline-six gas engine with mild hybrid capability and that leads to a response to a listener question on V6 vs I6. Finally, Dan and Sam talk with Ford Super Duty chief engineer Mike Pruitt about the new 2020 heavy duty pickups and the new 7.3-liter V8.

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Wheelbearings Episode 96 Feb 10, 2019

This week Sam and Rebecca call in from Chicago, home of the biggest little auto show in America. Before arriving in the windy city, they both drove the 2019 Mazda CX-5 with the new 2.5-liter turbo. Meanwhile Dan has been commuting in the Mitsubishi Mirage G4 and while we may mock it, we also acknowledge that there is a place for cars like this. Rebecca shares her thoughts on the revived Chevrolet Blazer. The crew discuss the new Ram 1500 Multi-function tailgate, the ginormous Chevrolet Silverado HD, the 30th anniversary Mazda Miata and more.

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Wheelbearings Episode 95 Feb 02, 2019

This week we kick off a new era in the show by introducing a new member of the Wheel Bearings team. Veteran auto industry analyst Rebecca Lindland joins Dan and Sam to talk cars every week. For her debut, Rebecca has been tooling around Connecticut in the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio while Sam has been driving the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe and Dan has had the yet again refreshed Dodge Charger AWD.

Continuing the crossover theme, Rebecca and Sam both got to drive the 2019 Honda Passport in Utah and we dive into some discussion of why women (and men) seem like to crossovers so much.

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Wheelbearings Episode 94 Jan 27, 2019

The guys are back with the 2019 Kia Forte EX, 2019 Toyota Avalon, Dodge Challenger Scat Pack and the 2019 Volvo S60 sedan. We review some of the highlights of the last January outing of the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, a new infotainment system for the upcoming Polestar 2 and finish up with some suggestions about the lowest power car you can have fun with for a listener.

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Wheelbearings Episode 93 Jan 13, 2019

Before heading off to CES, Sam drove the BMW X1 while Dan had a direct competitor in the Volvo XC40. This week Ford unveiled the all-new (no really, it is actually almost all-new!) 2020 Explorer. At CES, companies were showing off chips, software and sensors while Nissan announced a Leaf that finally goes over 200 miles on a charge and Hyundai showed a wild new ultimate mobility concept.

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Wheelbearings Episode 92 Jan 04, 2019

This week Dan is driving the new 2019 Kia Forte EX and Sam has been in the all-new 2019 Nissan Altima. The conversation then moves into whether cars are actually getting heavier, spoiler alert - Yes and No! Is a low-mileage 1994 Toyota Supra really worth $121,000? Another Alphabet moonshot project becomes its own company with a novel way to store energy from renewable sources.

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Wheelbearings Episode 91 Dec 29, 2018

As the guys get together one final time for 2018, Sam used the Buick Regal TourX to pick up a new puppy, and the Ram 1500 North Edition spends an extended stay in Dan's driveway . We re-visit Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid impressions at the request of a listener looking to replace a GMC Safari, ponder a German Turbo EV, and consider the utility of fingerprints in the car. We finish up by answering a listener question about aerodynamics on everyday cars before bidding everyone a pre-emptive Happy New Year.

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Wheelbearings Episode 90 Dec 22, 2018

This week Sam has been driving the Cadillac ATS-V and GMC Acadia Denali. Dan gets to be one of the first to try out the new Ram 1500 North Edition.

Electric vehicle batteries don't ignite very often, but when they do, they are really hard to put out. Lincoln goes back to the past for a special edition of the Continental and FCA appears to be preparing a new inline six cylinder engine.

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Wheelbearings Episode 89 Dec 14, 2018

We're back with seat time in the Honda Odyssey, Jaguar i-Pace, Mazda6 Signature and Volkswagen Jetta S. Meanwhile Waymo sort of launches a commercial sort of driverless robo-taxi service, Porsche tests ultra-fast charging and Aston Martin reveals some engine details about the Valykerie.

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Wheelbearings Episode 88 Dec 03, 2018

The American automotive market is more about trucks and utilities than ever before. Sam and Dan look at a couple of bookends with the 2019 Chevrolet Silverado and Ford EcoSport. GM CEO Mary Barra makes the tough call to end production at five factories. Meanwhile at the 2018 LA Auto Show, there was lots of new product many of them with plugs. Some highlights include the 2020 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, 2020 Mazda3, 2020 Porsche 911, Audi e-Tron GT concept and the new Kia Soul with a battery that should go 250 miles or so.

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Wheelbearings Episode 87 Nov 26, 2018

This week Sam drives the new Volkswagen Jetta and Dan spends time with the Acura RDX and VW Golf Sportwagen.

Out in the real world, Carlos Ghosn, CEO of Renault and Chairman of Nissan is arrested for alleged financial malfeasance and the future of the Alliance is in doubt. With snow and ice now on the road, it's time again to think about winter tires. Land Rover unveils the second-generation Evoque with electrified powertrains and Tesla owners are experiencing Supercharger issues. Sam also interviews Pete Rander and Brett Browning of Argo AI.

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Wheelbearings Episode 86 Nov 17, 2018

This time out, Sam is recording from a hotel room in Miami as we discuss the Volvo XC40 T5 and its goofy shifter design, the Audi Q5 and its surprisingly fast handwriting recognition and the marvelous Kia Stinger. Subscriptions may or may not be the future of car buying, assuming car buying even has a future in an age of automated vehicles. Faraday almost certainly has no Future and Walmart joins Ford's automated delivery test program.

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Wheelbearings Episode 85 Nov 02, 2018

After a week off, we have an extended length show to make up for it. Dan drives a very expensive Ford F-150 and a sportier Acura MDX A-Spec. Sam goes from the not really a crossover Toyota C-HR to the ginormous Genesis G90. Then we dive into some discussion of sales and earnings, GM's call for a national EV mandate in response to Trump administration moves to freeze fuel economy standards and cost cutting moves while profits are still reasonably healthy. We also discuss Consumer Reports reliability data and answer listener questions including the Hyundai pickup truck.

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Wheelbearings Episode 84 Oct 20, 2018

This week, Sam and Dan are both commuting, Dan from his office near Boston and Sam heading back to SFO from the Verge Transport Conference in Oakland. Sam is on his second consecutive battery electric car, driving the 2018 BMW i3S after leaving the Hyundai Ioniq Electric behind in Detroit. Meanwhile Dan joins the party from the 2019 Lexus LS500 after transitioning from the 2019 Subaru Forester. In the news, the guys discuss the latest assessment from Munro and Associates about how Tesla is building the Model 3 and Dan opines on advertising changes at Ford. At the end of the show we add the keynote that Sam delivered recently to the Ann Arbor Ypsilanti Regional Chamber Impact event.

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Wheelbearings Episode 83 Oct 09, 2018

This week Sam drives the latest Mazda6 which is still his favorite midsize sedan while Dan samples the Hyundai Kona and Toyota Sienna with all-wheel-drive. As the auto industry changes, Mercedes-Benz considers paring down niche models while GM and Honda team up on automated driving and mobility.

Finally, we bid farewell to Tony Swan.

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Wheelbearings Episode 82 Sep 27, 2018

This week, Brianna Wu returns to the show to talk about her Porsche Cayman, Sam drives 2019 Hyundai Veloster Turbo Ultimate and Dan shares his feelings on the Ford Mustang Convertible. Lucid follows up on their big Saudi funding round with a deal with Electrify America to provide charging for the upcoming Air electric sedan. The crew also discusses the lack of togetherness between BMW and Toyota in developing the new Z4 and Supra.

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Wheelbearings Episode 81 Sep 21, 2018

After a hectic week of travel for Sam while Dan was making an emergency TV commercial, the guys are back with a bunch of vehicles they've driven. Sam spent time with the BMW 230i and Kia Rio EX while Dan was in the BMW X2 and the VW Beetle convertible for a last hurrah before it rolls off into the sunset. Sam also drove the Cadillac XT4 and Lincoln Nautilus and attended the global reveal of the Audi E-Tron Quattro. Also J Mays emerges from retirement to design something new.

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Wheelbearings Episode 80 Sep 07, 2018

Since the last regular episode, Sam has been in the new Jeep Wrangler with a 48V mild hybrid and a Nissan Kicks. Meanwhile Dan has been hauling stuff in the Hyundai Ioniq and picks up the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV. Mercedes-Benz revealed the new EQC this week and the Ford Focus Active isn't coming to America.

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Episode #079 - Larry Burns Talks About Autonomy Aug 26, 2018

In this special episode of Wheel Bearings, Sam sits down with Larry Burns, retired SVP of R&D and Strategic Planning at General Motors to talk about his new book, Autonomy: The Quest to Build the Driverless Car—And How It Will Reshape Our World. Since retiring from GM in 2009, Burns has been an educator and consultant including working with the Google Self-driving car project and Waymo since 2011. The book is a great read for anyone interested in learning more the history of the DARPA Grand Challenge and development of automated vehicles in the past decade.

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Wheelbearings Episode 78 Aug 25, 2018

This week Dan records his end of the show from the new Kia Rio which proves an affordable new car doesn't have to be cheap junk. Sam is at home after having driven the 2019 Jeep Cherokee and the 48V mild hybrid Ram 1500. The guys discuss the wisdom of Jaguar building electric restomod E-types, Audi's new Pebble Beach electric supercar concept and whether Elon Musk has outlived his usefulness to Tesla

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Wheelbearings Episode 77 Aug 18, 2018

Lots of electrified vehicles this week as Sam discusses the Lexus LC500h and Honda Clarity Fuel Cell while Dan gets his hands on the new Honda Insight and the Ford Expedition Max Platinum. Casey Liss is also back to talk about the VW Golf R. Everyone's favorite 80s and 90s near vaporware is trying to make a comeback as Vector offers up a couple of old prototypes to kickstart a revival.

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Wheelbearings Episode 76 Aug 09, 2018

This week, Sam describes his time with the impressive Honda Accord Hybrid - perfected just in time for the sedan market to dry up - and Dan gets charmed by the Ford Raptor and Expedition Max. We talk abut the looming fight over relaxin or even rolling back fuel economy standards, SAE working to define safety tests for autonomous vehicles, and the layoffs that just happened at Car & Driver.

Sam found and fixed an error with our feedback form, and so we spend a good amount of time answering a backlog of listener emails, too.

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Wheelbearings Episode 75 Jul 27, 2018

Since we last turned on the mics, Sam has been in the Ford F-150 King Ranch diesel and the Kia Niro plug-in hybrid. Dan has been sampling Subaru's new big SUV, the Ascent. The automotive world loses big names to the inevitable.

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Wheelbearings Episode 74 Jul 18, 2018

This week Sam drives what may end up being the last Ford car to Pittsburgh to learn about how Argo AI is helping Ford build the future of transportation. Dan takes a road trip in the biggest of Ford's passenger carrying vehicles. A lot of very cool vehicles climb Lord March's driveway at the Goodwood festival of Speed. VW will build some of its new generation of EVs in America. Small Hyundai's are really good. The guys discuss the meaning of crossover in an attempt to answer a listener question, too.

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Wheelbearings Episode 73 Jul 08, 2018

This week Sam has been in the new Ford Expedition Max, Dan gets a re-run of the Lincoln Navigator and Mazda CX-9. Lots of news including the new Audi e-Tron quattro without mirrors, chargers for GM's automated Chevy Bolts, rising prices due to the trade war and the Toyota Supra goes to NASCAR. Finally, Honda builds a 150 mph lawnmower because why not?

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Wheelbearings Episode 72 Jun 29, 2018

This week Sam drives Ford's new baby SUV, the EcoSport and Dan marvels at the progress of Kia over 20 years after driving the new Sorento. This week Fiat Chrysler held their annual What's New preview and showed off the latest even faster Challenger variant, the Hellcat Redeye. Like the Challenger, many of the products in the FCA lineup have been around for quite a long time but the company has made an effort to continuously update them in ways that seem small on the surface but matter to customers. The show wraps up with a discussion of the impact of proposed tariffs on the auto industry.

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Wheelbearings Episode 71 Jun 24, 2018

The delay between episodes is always Dan's fault. Most of the miles were put on this week via 737-700s and a rental Kia Soul. Sam was busy paying attention to all of the automotive goings-on, including leadership shuffles at General Motors, and Ford's latest real estate investment in Detroit's Corktown neighborhood, while also finding time to drive the 2019 Honda Insight. Because it's been a while, there's also a plethora of cars we've been driving. Sam was in the 2018 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV and the 2018 Nissan Leaf while Dan tried out the 2019 Ram 1500 Laramie and the 2018 Lincoln Navigator Black Label.

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Wheelbearings Episode 70 Jun 09, 2018

This week Sam really likes the third-generation Acura RDX, Dan likes the Mazda CX-5 and then they try hard not to talk about Tesla and mostly succeed. The guys also talk GM and Softbank and the upcoming product plans for Chrysler and Dodge. Just kidding on the last part, there are no known product plans for Chrysler and Dodge but Jeep, Ram, Alfa Romeo and Maserati are all getting new stuff.

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Wheelbearings Episode 69 May 30, 2018

We missed last week for reasons we don't need to get into (OK, it was Dan's fault) but Sam drove the Volkswagen Tiguan and Atlas while Dan had the new Jeep Wrangler. Sam went to the Midwest Automotive Media Association Spring Rally at Road America where he went for a ride in the Ford GT and drove a whole bunch of other cars and utilities. He came to the conclusion that for those that actually want to have fun driving, the VW GTI is a better choice than the Golf R. Finally, Tesla continues to have quality issues and Elon Musk goes on the attack against anyone that stoops to criticize and his most trollish followers pile on.

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Wheelbearings Episode 68 May 18, 2018

This week Sam is in California talking autonomous cars at a conference. He's driven the BMW X3 before the trip and trying out the Cadillac CT6 with SuperCruise in Silicon Valley. Dan has been enjoying the rough edges of the Subaru WRX. The guys discuss Teslas crashing into fire trucks, batteries that re-ignite and the pending demise of the diesel.

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Wheelbearings Episode 67 May 11, 2018

Sam spends time with the Range Rover Velar and laments touchscreens that can't be seen through polarized sunglasses. Dan continues to be impressed by the Genesis G80 and lauds the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid as a great family hauler that is also really efficient. Rolls-Royce follows the crowd and launches and SUV named after what else? a massive diamond. The guys lament the deather of the Cadillac ATS. Waymo is learning to see through snow, Uber can see but doesn't know what to do and battery fires don't always stay exti

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Wheelbearings Episode 66 May 03, 2018

After a week off, the guys are back with lots of stuff to talk about. Since the last show, Sam has been in the Mini Countryman Cooper S E (where do they come up with these naming conventions?) and the BMW 530e xDrive while Dan has found himself surprisingly enamored with the Toyota Camry Hybrid. While electrification is the future, it's not the only solution for improving efficiency, especially in the big trucks that Americans favor. That's why Ford is launching a diesel engine in the F-150. Someday we may not be actively driving anymore but we're still a long way from that being commonplace. Sam compares the hype for automated vehicles to the currently reality and the hype just doesn't hold up. Oh and Amazon can deliver packages to your trunk.

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Wheelbearings Episode 65 Apr 22, 2018

Since the last show, Sam has spent time with the Volvo XC60 and Mercedes-Benz GLE550e plug-in hybrid. Dan gets an encore with the Nissan Armada and some time with the Dodge Charger GT. As we head into this year's Beijing Motor Show, images of the new Mercedes-Maybach sedan-SUV concept surface and frankly it's not good. Audi provides a preview of some of the testing they are doing with the upcoming e-Tron Quattro and VW subsidiary Electrify America gets ready to challenge the Tesla SuperCharger network. Finally, Toyota commits to talking cars and wants the rest of the industry to come along for the ride.

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Wheelbearings Episode 64 Apr 12, 2018

It's all hatchbacks this week as Sam talks about the Hyundai Ioniq Electric and trying to find an EV charging station in San Jose. The Toyota Yaris was also surprisingly enjoyable to drive but Dan had the best ride with the VW GTI. The EPA has decided to rescind the Obama administration's late decision to lock in the 2022-25 fuel economy and CO2 standards and your hosts the discuss the impact or lack thereof on the industry. Ford debuts the fourth generation Focus which Americans will get far fewer of. Sam rants about jackasses doing stupid shit with Tesla Autopilot on Youtube and urges listeners to report the bad behavior to Youtube.

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Wheelbearings Episode 63 Apr 04, 2018

This week, Dan and Sam come in favor of a couple of very different sedans, the plug-in hybrid BMW 740e and the latest generation Honda Accord. Despite how different these cars are, both feature a 2.0-liter turbocharged four cylinder engine under the hood. The show is a bit late because Sam was travelling in California last week for the Nvidia GPU Technology Conference. Meanwhile on the opposite coast, Waymo and Jaguar announced a deal, Nissan unveiled an Altima with variable compression ratio, VW took the wraps off a pickup truck concept, and Lincoln showed the first of new generation of vehicles from Ford.

Sam also goes on a rant about another fatality in a Tesla running on AutoPilot. We remind you that NONE of the vehicles currently in production with various levels of partial automation are self-driving. These are all driver assist systems and we ask you to keep your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel. Thanks

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Wheelbearings Episode 62 Mar 23, 2018

This week Car and Driver transportation editor Pete Bigelow drops by get some family car buying advice and discuss the first pedestrian fatality from an automated vehicle. Dan drives the Nissan Armada while same raves about the Kia Stinger and Cadillac has a new twin-turbo V8 engine.

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Wheelbearings Episode 61 Mar 18, 2018

This week Dan marvels at the stunning build quality of the beautifully sculpted Infiniti Q60 coupe (something Tesla seems fundamentally incapable of accomplishing). In discussing the Volvo V90, Sam demonstrates why auto journalists love wagons so much (bring on the new V60 please!). Then the guys dive into Ford's new product strategy and all of the upcoming hybrids, the refined new Ram 1500 and GM's call for higher-octane gasoline. Finally, Dan has a chat with Zach Bowman.

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Wheelbearings Episode 60 Mar 12, 2018

Sam returns from duty as a judge at a FIRST Robotics competition and gives his impressions of the 2018 Toyota Camry. Dan finds himself surprisingly enamored with the Acura TLX A-Spec. Following the Geneva Motor Show, the Jaguar i-Pace is officially on sale in Europe and coming to America soon. It will be followed by a pair of electric Porsches, the Mission E sedan and then the Mission E Cross Turismo. Ford patents a repair drone for its automated vehicles and guys dish out more car buying advice.

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Wheelbearings Episode 59 Mar 03, 2018

This week Sam talks about and to the 2018 Lincoln Navigator while Dan shows some love to the auto journalist's special, the Volvo V90 in brown. The guys then discuss the production launch of the Jaguar i-Pace and some of the unique distinguishing features of the 2019 GMC Sierra including the available carbon fiber bed.

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Wheelbearings Episode 58 Feb 25, 2018

Dan and Sam fired up the recorders late Friday night to marvel at the insanity that is the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk and the combination of practicality and efficiency that is Hyundai's new Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid. Sam gives a primer on advanced driver assist systems in responses to comments on the Accidental Tech Podcast #261 and Waymo gets a license to operate an autonomous ride-hailing service in Arizona. Volvo launches its first three-cylinder engine. The demise of now former Ford executive Raj Nair shows that automakers may finally be getting serious about tackling harassment and bad behavior in the workplace. Finally, Sam responds to a listener tweet asking about car makers selling our data.

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Wheelbearings Episode 57 Feb 18, 2018

In this week's rambling episode, Accidental Tech Podcast co-host Casey Liss returns to talk about his experience with the Alfa Romeo Stelvio and compare notes with Sam. Sam also brings up his experience trying to drive the Giulia Quadrifoglio in the wake of a winter storm and Dan talks about the new Mini Countryman plug-in hybrid. The conversation then returns to the prior discussion Volvo's Sensus infotainment system and Casey's newfound frustrations with it. Dan is considering replacing his Crown Victoria with a Mazda6 and Casey is continuing to ponder the new Jeep Wrangler.

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Wheelbearings Episode 56 Feb 09, 2018

The guys are back after failing to get our collective acts together last week. Dan drove the VW Beetle with a 2.0-liter turbo that makes as much power as many much smaller engines, while Sam drives a three-row utility that actually has room for humans in the back, the 2018 Dodge Durango GT. This week Sam records his end of the show from Chicago as he gets ready for the auto show there. Ford is making a little bit of news with a mid-cycle refresh of the Transit Connect that surprisingly adds a new diesel engine. The best promoter in the auto industry also made some news this week by launching his car into space and Sam goes on a rant about how meaningless the California autonomous vehicle disengagement statistics are.

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Wheelbearings Episode 55 Jan 29, 2018

This week, Sam spends quality time with the Dodge Challenger GT AWD and comes away pleasantly surprised. Dan shares his appreciation of the 2018 Hyundai Sonata Sport and its naturally aspirated engine. Mazda invited Sam to California to learn more about the upcoming SkyActiv-X engine and drive a prototype. Then the guys go on an extended rant about BMW's plans to charge a subscription fee for Apple CarPlay and flow right into how reckless Elon Musk is being with flame throwers.

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Wheelbearings Episode 54 Jan 20, 2018

This week Sam commutes through the winter slog to the Detroit Auto Show in the 2018 Jeep Compass while Dan gets Toyota's new non-crossover crossover, the CH-R. The guys discuss all of the pickup trucks that debuted at the Detroit show and all the car brands that didn't show up along with more new crossovers and another Mustang Bullitt

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Wheelbearings Episode 53 Jan 13, 2018

This week Sam is just back from the giant Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. While at CES, he rode in an Aptiv autonomous vehicle and discusses that experience, along with a few other highlights. Dan haas been battle-testing a Hyundai Elantra GT during a stretch of brutal, fickle winter weather in Boston. Other topics include the officially-announced Ford F-150 Powerstroke Diesel, a field report on GM Marketplace, and a quick spin through our favorite nominees to win North American Car and Truck of the Year at the NAIAS in Detroit.

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Wheelbearings Episode 52 Jan 06, 2018

As the frigid temperatures continue to encase the midwest and spread to the eastern half of the US this week, Sam has been driving the new Hyundai Elantra GT Sport, his favorite variant of this compact Korean platform. Dan meanwhile has been taking to the snow-covered streets of the Boston area in the all-wheel-drive Dodge Challenger GT. In a relatively light news week ahead of CES and the Detroit show, the guys discuss driving in these wintery conditions, Volkswagen and Hyundai both announcing autonomous driving partnerships with Aurora Innovation and they follow-up last week's conversation about the death of the collector car market with news that some person with more money than sense bought a Volvo 262C for $216,000 simply because it was once owned by David Bowie.

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Wheelbearings Episode 51 Dec 30, 2017

For the final edition of 2017, Dan drives the 2018 Hyundai Accent, Sam gets in the Mazda CX-3 and Larry Vellequette from Automotive News drops by to talk about the end of car collecting. There's a growing backlash from people tired of drivers trying to bypass traffic jams with online navigation apps like Waze but will the problem only get worse when we have automated mobility services like what Uber wants to build with money from Softbank? Kenichi Yamamoto, the brilliant engineer that led Mazda for many years and made the Wankel rotary almost viable, dies at 95 and the guys talk about some of their favorite rides of the past year.

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Wheelbearings Episode 50 Dec 22, 2017

We've got another special guest this week as the great Phil Berg visit's Sam's basement to tell some stories talk about cars of the past, present and future. In the garage, Phil is driving the Chevrolet Bolt EV, Sam disses the Toyota Prius C and Dan shifts gears in the Toyota Corolla SE. In the discussion we solve the problem of distracted driving by declaring that everyone must drive manual transmission Mazda Miata. We ponder the refreshed 2019 Jeep Cherokee and the revival of the Honda Insight name. Finally, a reminder to make sure that if you get a recall notice for Takata airbags (or anything else) please get it fixed ASAP.

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Wheelbearings Episode 49 Dec 16, 2017

On this week's edition of the show, Dan and Sam are joined by very special guest Brianna Wu, head of development at game studio Giant Space Kat, congressional candidate and all-around car geek! Bri tells us why she is so passionate about driving and why she chose her current ride, the Porsche Cayman. Dan and Sam meanwhile have to make do with a couple of fine, but far less exciting sedans, the 2018 Hyundai Sonata and the Genesis G80 Sport. Then everyone dives into a discussion the latest product from the McLaren Cars, the aptly named Senna and some speculation about the next generation Porsche 911. From driving to not driving, the conversation wraps with some thoughts on policy for autonomous vehicles and automotive cybersecurity from an aspiring politician with that rarest of characteristics in Washington, actual knowledge of the modern world and technology.

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Wheelbearings Episode 48 Dec 08, 2017

After a hiatus while Sam finished off a flurry of travel, the team is back for episode 48. Sam drives the 2017 Mazda CX-5 while Dan gets the Hyundai Ioniq and Mitsubishi Outlander (is it just me or does it seem like Mitsubishi has sent its entire press fleet to New England for Dan to drive?). While in Napa to drive the new Nissan Leaf, Sam talked with Jalopnik's Jason Torchinsky about what defines a station wagon and picks up the conversation with Dan. Lincolns have names again, VW is building EVs, Sam rides in automated Chevrolet Bolt and Infiniti launches its variable compression engine.

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Wheelbearings Episode 47 Nov 23, 2017

The guys are back with some Thanksgiving car chatter after a week of travel for Sam. It's a full slate of hybrids in the garage. Since the last show, Sam has driven the Toyota Highlander Hybrid and the fuel-cell Toyota Mirai. Meanwhile, Dan gives his take on the Toyota Prius Prime and the new Volvo XC60 T8 Twin-Drive. From there, the conversation devolves into complaints about touchscreens in cars and the future of voice recognition. Then we take on the king of the car touchscreens with the launch of the Tesla Semi, a new Roadster and production problems. Finally, the Uber has messed up again with a massive data breach that was concealed for a year.

Let's give thanks that at least for now, we can still drive for ourselves.

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Wheelbearings Episode 46 Nov 10, 2017

This week, Dan and Sam compare notes on the two Mercedes-Benz cars they drove, the E400 coupe and 2018 S560 4Matic sedan. Sam ponders whether partially automated systems are a good idea and whether everyone should simply take the Waymo path of highly automated driving that launching without a driver this week in Arizona. With the new Corvette ZR1 about to launch, Dan bemoans its looks and the guys ponder whether this will be the last front engine Vette.

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Wheelbearings Episode 45 Nov 03, 2017

This week a special guest joins Dan and Sam. Casey Liss of the Accidental Tech Podcast and Analog(ue) stops by to share his thoughts on the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio and Volvo Sensus. Sam ponders the Cadillac CT6 Plug-in and his experience visiting Waymo's secret test track in the California desert.

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Wheelbearings Episode 44 Oct 27, 2017

This week Sam praises Volvo for continuing to build great wagons, Dan plays with a fast BMW and the guys discuss acquisitions, working overtime and more.

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Wheelbearings Episode 43 Oct 20, 2017

This week, Sam talks about driving the Toyota Prius Prime which if you can get past the design is a really good and fuel efficient car. Dan ponders the Mitsubishi Mirage GT instead of something slightly used and way better for the same money before he transitions to the Volkswagen Golf Alltrack. Volvo launches its first dedicated car for the Polestar brand, a 600-hp plug-in hybrid coupe, Audi rolls out a second-generation A7 and Tesla fires a whole bunch of people. Dan explains why he doesn't watch Star Trek Discovery and Sam gives his verdict and the guys answer additional listener questions.

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Wheelbearings Episode 42 - Maxi Mini, Family Haulin’, Car Subscriptions & Autonomous Safety Oct 14, 2017

This week, Dan hauls his family around in the Hyundai Santa Fe and Sam ponders how big a Mini can be and still be a Mini. If you have a hard time committing to just one car, subscription services like Passport by Porsche may be the answer for you. Mislabeling of metals is not a problem you can fix with an over-the-air software update and may put Kobe Steel in even more trouble than Takata. Waymo publishes a surprisingly detailed safety report about its automated driving system and the guys answer some listener questions.

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Wheelbearings Episode 41 - SuperCruising Across America, EVs Coming Up Everywhere Oct 04, 2017

We're back with a regular episode with Sam driving the Acura TLX A-Spec and Dan expounding upon the . Last week Sam spent a couple of days crossing the heartland in a Cadillac CT6 with his hands mostly off the steering wheel. Along the way, it seems like everyone from vacuum cleaner maven James Dyson to Ford CEO Jim Hackett was talking about building EVs with GM in the middle.

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Wheel Bearings Episode 40 - The ADAS and Autonomous Landscape Oct 02, 2017

Navigant Research senior analyst and Wheel Bearings co-host Sam Abuelsamid delivered a keynote presentation on the ADAS (advanced driver assist systems) and Autonomous driving landscape at the TU-Automotive ADAS to Autonomy conference in Detroit on October 2, 2017. Here's the audio of the presentation.

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Wheelbearings Episode 39 - The Off-Road Ford GT, New Jaguars, Stupid Tech Sep 22, 2017

This week Dan and Sam have both recently driven the off-road specialist from Ford Performance, the F-150 Raptor. It's got visual presence and a great engine, but would your humble hosts actually want to own one? Sam has also driven the Hyundai Elantra Sport, but unlike the manual transmission version Dan drove a few weeks ago, this one had the seven-speed dual clutch transmission.

Volvo has revealed the new XC40 compact crossover with a new subscription leasing program that turns out to be very similar to Apple's iPhone upgrade program. Jaguar brought most of its 2018 model lineup including the all-new E-Pace to Detroit and Sam chats with product planning chief Dave Larsen. Meanwhile in South Korea, Genesis boss Albert Biermann throws shade at his former colleagues in Germany.

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Wheelbearings Episode 38 - Grand Touring, Fun Hybrids, Frankfurt and Mazda Cleverness Sep 15, 2017

The guys return after a week away with Dan getting his turn at the Kia Niro while Sam tours in the Lexus LC500. We review the highlights of the Frankfurt Motor Show plus the hideous BMW X7, discuss what the NTSB had to say about a fatal Tesla crash, ponder stolen VW diesels and marvel at the creativity of Mazda's engineers. We also answer some really old voice mails.

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Wheelbearings Episode 37 - NSX weekend, warm and hot hatches, and piping-hot pizza Sep 01, 2017

Sam tells us about driving the Acura NSX for a weekend, and we also discuss hatches warm and hot. The Hyundai Elantra GT Sport is the warm one while the Honda Civic Type R is on-boil. Speaking of hot, we finish up by discussing the partnership Ford and Dominos Pizza have just announced so both companies can learn more about autonomous logistics and customer behavior.

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Wheelbearings Episode 36 - Rome Isn’t Burning, Why Skip The VCs? & Diesel Crossovers Aug 24, 2017

The guys are back with a regular episode wherein we drive sibling vehicles from Korea, the Hyundai Elantra Sport and Kia Niro FE. Sam was wiped out last week after a whirlwind trip to San Francisco for the City of Tomorrow symposium hosted by Ford. While there he got the chance to talk with Bryan Salesky, one of the most experienced software engineers working on automated vehicles. Fiat Chrysler is also trying to get a foothold in the automated driving space while rumors of a Chinese acquisition swirl. Meanwhile GM still hopes that diesel can give them a competitive edge with the 39 mpg Chevy Equinox.

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Wheelbearings Special Episode: NEMPA MIT Technology Conference - "Stronger, Lighter, Faster" Aug 18, 2017

Sam is recovering from a redeye flight, but we’ll be recording the next episode soon. In the meantime, we’re sharing recordings made during the New England Motor Press Association MIT Technology Conference. Held annually at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, this year’s theme was Lighter, Stronger, Faster.

This week, we’ll present the first two panelists: Doctor Jody Hall, Vice President of the automotive market for the Steel Market Development Institute, and NanoSteel’s David Paratore.

MIT's Bryan Reimer provides an introduction first.

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Wheelbearings Episode 35 – Dull Edge, Travis Gets Sued, Mazda Innovates Aug 11, 2017

This week, Sam is again driving a Mazda Miata with brilliant steering while Dan fights the steering in the Ford Edge Sport. Another Hespen Rally is in the books and Sam goes off on a tangent about what happens to engineering development vehicles. Mazda announces the first production HCCI engine for 2019 and one of Uber’s biggest investors sues former CEO Travis Kalanick and guys try to give some advice on what kind of car should replace a VW GTI. Colin Sultan of 3M explains what the inventor of post-it notes is doing to enable automated and connected vehicles.

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Wheelbearings Episode 34 - AMG Roadtripping, More Miata Love and EV Frustration Aug 06, 2017

This week Dan takes his turn in the Mazda Miata RF while Sam does a road trip to the Center for Automotive Research Management Briefing Seminars in the Mercedes-AMG E43. While at MBS Sam talked with Nvidia's director of automotive, Danny Shapiro, heard Mazda SVP Robert Davis extol the virtues of internal combustion and saw his friend Bob Gritzenger struggle with EV charging infrastructure in northern Michigan.

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Wheelbearings Episode 033 - Faster, Slower, Fix It Now or Fix It Later Jul 28, 2017

This week Sam is in the slightly quicker Civic, the Si sedan, Dan stays on-road in the off-road Jeep Compass and the guys delve into fixing diesel Volkswagens, regulations for automated driving and whether anyone will ever make any money on self-driving software. Also, Waze comes to Android Auto, the end of big cars and a contemplation on how to fix Lincoln.

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Wheelbearings Episode 032 - Convertibles, Hybrids, Not Self-Driving and Comcast Hate Jul 21, 2017

This week Sam has driven Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid and compares the latest Mazda Miata to the original. Dan spends the week with a very different kind of convertible, the Mustang GT. When the new Nissan Leaf arrives this fall, it will have e-pedal for strong regenerative braking and ProPilot Assist which is automated but not self-driving. Before some listener questions, the guys dive into the latest ploy by Comcast to remain the most hated company in America.

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Wheelbearings Episode 031 - Absolutely Mainstream to Utterly Extreme Jul 15, 2017

This week Sam and Dan discuss the merits of the Subaru Impreza vs the Mistubishi Outlander Sport, the Merccedes-AMG GLA45, the all-new 2018 Honda Accord, the Aston Martin Valkyrie and a preview of the 2017 Concours de'Elegance of America. Don't forget to join the Hespen Rally if you are in Michigan on August 6, 2017.

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Wheelbearings Episode 030 - Crashing and Electrifying Jul 07, 2017

As we head into the second half of 2017, Dan and Sam have a bunch of stuff to discuss including spending time with the Chevrolet Bolt and the air conditioning capacity of the Mazda CX-9. In the news topics, Tesla responds badly to IIHS crash test results, Volvo adds electrons to its full lineup and sales of the Kia Niro and Hyundai Ioniq reflect the changing character of the automotive market as a whole. EVENT ALERT: On August 6, 2017, please come join the Hespen Rally to honor the memory of Patrick Hespen

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Wheelbearings Episode 029 - Big Sedans, Servicing Autonomous Vehicles, Racing Old Cars Jun 30, 2017

This week Sam drives a couple of big American sedans, the Buick LaCrosse and Lincoln Continental and Dan samples the Mazda CX-9. This devolves into a chat about Chris Lattner and working with/for Elon Musk and using rental car companies to service fleets of autonomous vehicles. Then Sam goes all analog with a visit to the Great Race stop in Ypsilanti, Mich.

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Wheelbearings Episode 028 - Uber loses its CEO, JD Power IQS, and your questions Jun 23, 2017

This week we talk about Travis Kalanick stepping down from Uber, the JD Power Initial Quality Scores, and a bunch of your questions.

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Wheelbearings Episode 027 - Jags That Burn Oil On Purpose, Cars That Are Too Good and Some That Aren’t Jun 15, 2017

This week we talk about a diesel powered Jaguar XF, a BMW 5 Series that so good it's boring, the big shuffle at Uber, whether car makers will be the tier 1 suppliers to the tech industry for automated driving and answer a whole bunch of listener questions including some background on Sam's engineering career.

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Wheelbearings Episode 026 - Smokeless Launches and Exhausted Patents Jun 09, 2017

This week, Dan and Sam talk about driving the BMW 530i, Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit, Ford Escape Platinum and Acura NSX. Then they dive into how a printer patent case might impact the future of automated driving, the Acura NSX racing program and insuring Teslas.

Guest: Art St. Cyr, President Honda Performance Development

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Wheelbearings Episode 025 - Aging Trucks, New Crossovers, Vintage Convertibles and Cheap EVs Jun 01, 2017

This week Dan and Sam discuss lots of listener comments and questions throughout the show. Dan has spent the week with the Toyota Tundra and advises a listener to look elsewhere for their hauling needs. Sam has the new Chevrolet Equinox and also discusses his new acquisition, a 1990 Mazda Miata. In the ongoing Uber saga, former Google engineer Anthony Levandoski is now also a former Uber engineer as the ride-hailing leader fires him. The guys discuss invisible Camrys, electric vehicle conversions, autonomous shuttles and whether it is worth buying a cheap used Fiat 500e.

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Wheelbearings Episode 024 - Hauling, Firing, Hiring, Renting and Banning May 24, 2017

This week Dan and Sam discuss driving the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, hauling decking materials with the new aluminum bodied Ford F250 Super Duty and hauling ass in the Shelby GT350. In the news since the last episode, Lyft will be testing Waymo's minivans in addition to Chevy Bolts, Theresa May wants to ban internal combustion engines by 2050 and the first two salaried job losses are announced at Ford as Mark Fields and Ray Day head for the door.

Last week Sam was speaking at the Connected and Autonomous Vehicles conference in Santa Clara, Calif. and the chance to talk with Tom Wang, chief product officer of Turo and Peter Rawlinson, CTO of Lucid.

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Wheelbearings Episode 023 - Ride Hailing is Doomed, VW Advertising, Delphi Spinning Off, GM Diesel Interview May 10, 2017

On this week's edition, Dan and Sam discuss whether Fiat might have a better Miata than Mazda with the 124 Spider and whether midsized pickups like the GMC Canyon Denali might be too compromised to be truly useful. Volkswagen has some interesting new ads aimed at attracting buyers to the new Atlas SUV and the brand in general as it tries to recover from the diesel emissions scandal. Sam expounds on why stand-alone ride-hailing services are probably doomed and then the team ponders why Delphi is splitting itself up to leave powertrain systems behind. Dan interviews one of the masterminds behind GM's latest 6.6-liter Duramax V8 and we address a listener question about diesel particulate filters.

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Wheelbearings Episode 022 - Jeep and Ram spinoff, Apple still into cars, Autonomy and Law Enforcement Apr 28, 2017

The latest rumor about Fiat Chrysler is that Jeep and Ram will be spun off as their own brand, whatever that means. We discuss how that might work and what it may mean for the rest of Chrysler. Apple is still in the autonomous vehicle game, too, and we discuss how the company has shifted its focus. Finally, we talk about how law enforcement is trying to figure out how to deal with autonomous cars in emergencies.

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Wheelbearings Episode 021 - Lincolns, Lambos, Buicks and Cadillacs in Manhattan Apr 21, 2017

We wrap up highlights from the 2017 New York Auto Show including an all-new Lincoln Navigator, Buick Enclave, SuperCruising Cadillacs and aero-vectoring Lamborghini Huracans. We also discuss a Tesla AutoPilot lawsuit and modern turbocharged engines. In the time gap since we last recorded, Dan has driven the Genesis G90 and Lexus RX450h while Sam has been through the aging Infiniti QX50 and the stunning new Infiniti Q60. Sam also spent a weekend with Chevrolet's second-generation Cruze diesel to see if it could be a viable alternative for the all the Volkswagen TDI refugees.

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Wheelbearings Episode 020 - Buick Regal Sportback and TourX, Hyundai Ioniq, Kia Niro Apr 13, 2017

In episode 20, Dan ponders what to tow with the massive 910 lb-ft of torque available from the redesigned 6.6-liter Duramax diesel in the 2017 Chevrolet Silverado HD 2500 while Sam swaps the BMW 530i for a 330i. Buick has shifted gears with the new 2018 Regal, ditching the trunk in favor of a five-door hatchback or wagon/crossover and Hyundai Motor Group has launched two distinctly different vehicles off its first dedicated electrified vehicle platform. Sam got to drive the electric and hybrid variants of the Hyundai Ioniq while Dan got to at least see the Kia Niro.

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Wheelbearings Episode 019 - The Race For Autonomy, New Tech For Old Cars And Flat Tires Apr 05, 2017

This week Dan and Sam drive the 2017 Toyota Sienna AWD and BMW 530i and talk about what happens when a run-flat tire loses pressure. Then we talk about Tesla's market value and why it ranked so low in the new Navigant Research Automated Driving Leaderboard Report. It's going to take decades before the newest technology displaces all the existing cars on the road. In the meantime, there are upgrades possible for the existing fleet to keep older cars relevant.

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Wheelbearings Episode 018 - Hacking Tractors, Formula E, Piech Drama, Trapping Autonomous Cars Mar 24, 2017

Farmers in the heartland are turning to cracked software from Eastern Europe for their tractors, there's a new crop of manufacturers participating in Formula E, the Piech drama continues at Volkswagen and Porsche, and it's surprisingly easy to trap an autonomous car. Plus Ford Focus RS, Ram 2500 Power Wagon, and Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk.

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Wheelbearings Episode 017 - Intel buys Mobileye, Geneva recap, EPA rollback, proposed federal budget Mar 17, 2017

Could Intel's purchase of Mobileye be the key to its survival? We discuss, before recapping the introductions at the Geneva Motor Show and discussing the possible affects of proposed federal moves including a roll-back of EPA fuel economy standards and why cutting the Coast Guard budget is worse for drivers than you may think.

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Wheelbearings Episode 016 - Ford/Argo AI, Automakers winning autonomy, Robert Davis of Mazda, more energy crisis musings Mar 03, 2017

Ford will pump $1 Billion into autonomous startup Argo AI over the next 5 years. We talk about what they'll get for their money, and explain the strategy behind the move. We also weigh in on John McElroy's recent Autoblog editorial handing the autonomy win to established automakers. Sam caught up with Robert Davis, SVP US Operations for Mazda, and we close out by repeating the case for acting like we're having an energy crisis.

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Wheelbearings Episode 015 - Waymo Will See Uber In Court, Opels and Fried Chicken and Making HD Maps Feb 24, 2017

This week we take a second look at the Honda Civic Sport Hatchback after Dan's had a chance to drive it and Sam takes the less ostentatious version of the Lexus ES300h that Dan had last week with the Toyota Camry Hybrid SE. Some big news broke just before we recorded as Waymo sued Uber for stealing its LiDAR technology, BMW, HERE and Mobileye team up to build HD maps for automated driving and we discuss half-baked ideas about fried chicken and Opel. Sam talks with Ford's Alan Dona about new Ford hybrids and then we answer listener questions about performance hybirds.

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Wheelbearings Episode 014 - GM, Opel, and PSA, Ride Hailing Disruption, EPA follow-up, and Questions Feb 17, 2017

This week Dan and Sam talk about the 2017 Acura MDX, 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, Lexus ES300h and wonder what GM will do in Europe if it sells Opel and Vauxhall to PSA. We also answer listener questions including what's the newest vehicle that has virtually disappeared from the road.

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Wheelbearings Episode 013 - Ford Expedition, Executive Order impacts on MPG, EPA abolishment, VW drops diesel development Feb 10, 2017

This week, Sam is in Chicago, so we talk about the newly-released 2018 Ford Expedition. We also discuss the fuel economy implications for the Executive Order requiring dropping two existing regulations for every one new one, what abolishing the EPA may mean and who is supporting the idea, and news of Volkswagen dropping development on new diesels for EV and hybrid powertrains, instead.

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Wheelbearings Episode 012 - Chevrolet Bolt, Dodge Challenger GT First Drives, 4 Press Cars, an Interview, and Questions Feb 01, 2017

After a week off due to busy schedules, Dan and Sam are back. In the garage, we've driven the Genesis G80, Honda Civic Sport hatchback and a Chrysler Pacifica that went back smelling like a bunch of Deadheads had hit the road in it. Sam went to California to drive the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV on some of the same roads where he first drove the Tesla Roadster nine years earlier and finds that those that don't want to wait for a Tesla Model 3 should be taking a serious look this new entry. Dan, took the Pacifica north to Portland, Maine to bomb around in the snow with an all-wheel-drive Dodge Challenger GT.

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Wheelbearings Episode 011 - 2018 Ford Mustang, engineer Tom Barnes, Mazda HCCI, Delphi's Jim Zizelman on Dynamic Skip-Fire Jan 20, 2017

Since it's a quiet week (/s), we spend a good amount of time talking about the newly-refreshed 2018 Ford Mustang. Sam had a chance to speak with Mustang Vehicle Engineer Tom Barnes, too. We also talk about Mazda's move to introduce an HCCI engine for the next generation of Skyactiv powertrains, take some questions, and finish up with Sam's interview with Jim Zizelman from Delphi, talking about Dynamic Skip-Fire and other topics.

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Wheelbearings Episode 010 - CES and NAIAS Jan 13, 2017

Sam walked a metric ton of miles around CES and then again at NAIAS, and we talk about what he saw and heard. We talk about the presentation by Ford's Mark Fields at CES, Detroit Auto Show highlights, and we answer some of your questions, too.

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Wheelbearings Episode 009 - 2016/2017 - the Review/Preview Jan 04, 2017

'Twas the night before CES, and in Dan and Sam's houses, we jumped onto Skype with clicks of our mouses...to talk about what happened during 2016 and make predictions about what 2017 has in store. Of course we talked about Tesla, Faraday Future, autonomous technology, emissions and fuel economy standards, and more. We finished up with a bunch of great questions, too. Check it out!

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Wheelbearings Episode 008 - Autonomy to boost minivans, VW I.D., Ford's autonomous fleet upgrades, Uber's tantrum, Tesla cuts supercharging Dec 28, 2016

This week, Dan is disappointed by the Volvo S60 Cross Country and Sam is somewhat impressed by the Cadillac XT5. Will the minivan see a resurgence thanks to autonomous ride hailing? Will every new minivan in the future be self-driving? Will Uber's self-driving cars work better in Phoenix than San Francisco? Will Ford follow its second-generation autonomous Fusions with Transit Connects? Will expensive parking charges be enough to get Tesla drivers to move their cars once they are done charging?

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Wheelbearings Episode 007 - Über arrogance, Waymo, new V2V rules Dec 21, 2016

After a brief delay due to some personal scheduling issues (ok it was all Dan's fault!) [it was totally my fault - D], Dan and Sam are back with another vibrant discussion about the week in vehicles and transportation. In the garage we talk about GM's shifting crossover strategy with the 2017 GMC Acadia and Honda growing the Ridgeline into a real truck. Then the talk turns to cars that talk to each other, the Google cars project transforming into Waymo and Uber behaving badly yet again (big surprise there!). Finally, in Q&A Sam gives tries to give a brief explanation (or at least as brief as Sam can be) of how the Volkswagen diesel emissions cheat worked and why engine accessory electrification saves fuel.

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WheelBearings Episode 006 - MobilEye, GM/Ford automatics, Comma.NEO, Ford predicts the future Dec 09, 2016

Sam doesn’t let a cold stop him from talking with Dan about Mobileye’s efforts to build high-definition maps for autonomous cars, the latest automatic transmissions from General Motors and Ford. The discussion then veers off into George Hotz open-sourcing his Comma One hardware and software before tackling the latest prognostications from Ford futurist Sheryl Connelly. The show wraps up with some listener e-mail from Zack and Jonathan.

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Wheelbearings Episode 005 - Ford EcoSport, making a case for a gas crisis, Lucid Motors, Delphi, and more Dec 02, 2016

Sam goes on the road to talk automation with Delphi, plus a bonus interview with Ford about the EcoSport. Dan makes a case for another gas crisis, and we talk about Lucid Motors, too.

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Wheelbearings Episode 004 - Automation, infotainment, visibility, and your questions Nov 25, 2016

Enjoy your Thanksgiving leftovers with an all-new episode. We talk automated driving and the work General Motors is doing on Super Cruise, trends ininfotainment, and answer questions about visibility and our sports/ponycar preferences.

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Wheelbearings Episode 003 - Tesla Autopilot Study, Jaguar iPace, Mazda CX-5 Diesel, Chariot Founder/CEO Ali Vahabzadeh Nov 21, 2016

Sam is back from the Los Angeles Auto Show with an interview with Chariot Founder and CEO Ali Vahabzadeh about new mobility solutions. We talk about what Tesla owners understand about Autopilot, the Jaguar iPace, and Mazda adding a diesel engine to the CX-5 in North America. Our garage this week is the Mazda 3 and Volkswagen Beetle Dune. Happy listening!

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Wheelbearings Episode 002 - Hyundai Ioniq, Electrified Ferraris, Cord Revival, Peak Automobile Nov 11, 2016

Welcome back for the second episode of the Wheelbearings Podcast. This week we're driving the Hyundai Elantra Eco and the Volvo XC60 T6. We cover the Hyundai Ioniq, Ferrari going all-hybrid by 2020, the latest effort to revive Cord, and projections that auto sales have peaked.

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Wheelbearings Episode 001 - Dan and Sam kick it off Nov 08, 2016

Dan Roth and Sam Abuelsamid have launched a new podcast with a familiar feel.

Check out the first episode of Wheelbearings. Topics are the new Mercedes-Benz engine architecture and autonomous vehicles, especially Sam's being stood up by Comma.ai and George Hotz.

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