The Watt Car EV Podcast

It’d be an understatement to say that Toyota, Subaru, and Mazda have made halfhearted attempts at building EVs recently. Now, that trend continues with the announcement of new ICE development – but will the new lineup of hybrids actually be the undoing of these reluctant three? We untangle the mess on this week’s podcast. But that’s not all! Tesla’s in the news, both in a suspicious third-party survey about battery degradation and for the company’s rising emissions levels. Also, Hyundai’s fuel cell supercar could be coming to market, the UAW never says die, and more!Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, Stitcher, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.SHOW NOTESStudy on Tesla battery degradation: https://jalopnik.com/tesla-vehicle-batteries-degrade-under-65-percent-of-epa-1851500137 Tesla's emissions increases by 20% year over year: https://www.theverge.com/2024/5/24/24163590/tesla-greenhouse-gas-emissions-climate-change-risk-disclosureToyota, Subaru, and Mazda pledge development of new internal-combustion engines: https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/corporate/40850156.html Porsche releases details on new 911 Hybrid: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a60914997/2025-porsche-911-gts-t-hybrid-engine-details/ Hyundai’s N74 FCEV concept rumored to go into limited production: https://www.motor1.com/news/720509/hyundai-hydrogen-supercar-2026-launch/ UAW petitions NLRB for new election at Mercedes’ Alabama plant: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/05/24/uaw-mercedes-benz-challenge.html Stellantis teases Jeep Wagoneer S EV: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zOWtfMNE3X4 This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode cover courtesy ToyotaMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayEmail comments and questions to hello@thewattcar.comWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/store

Last week’s announcement of a U.S. tariff hike on Chinese EVs is followed by this week’s news of a potent plug-in pickup from China called the Shark, showing companies like BYD have serious chops that could really take a bite out of the North American market. Meanwhile, the UAW fails to control the Mercedes-Benz plant in Alabama, Kia is spotted testing its EV pickup, Toyota announces an EV big rig, and more! Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, Stitcher, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.SHOW NOTESLordstown Endurance truck is for sale: https://carsandbids.com/auctions/rxXpR6J0/2023-lordstown-endurance UAW bid to organize Mercedes-Benz plant in Alabama fails: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/05/17/uaw-vote-mercedes-benz-alabama.html BYD debuts Shark midsize PHEV pickup: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a60803874/2024-byd-shark-truck-revealed/ Kia EV pickup truck seen testing in the U.S.: https://insideevs.com/news/719860/kia-ev9-pickup-prototype-spotted-us/ Toyota launches new Tern EV heavy truck brand: https://electrek.co/2024/05/20/toyota-announces-nationwide-dealer-rollout-of-tern-class-8-electric-semi/ New GM PHEVs expected to debut for 2027 model year: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a60848445/gm-new-plug-in-hybrid-2027-report/ Riots in New Caledonia have shut down nickel mining: https://fortune.com/asia/2024/05/17/france-lost-control-new-caledonia-producer-critical-ev-metal-nickel/ Unmined lithium found in Pennsylvania: https://www.sciencealert.com/a-vast-untapped-source-of-lithium-has-just-been-found-in-the-us This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode cover courtesy BYDMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayEmail comments and questions to hello@thewattcar.comWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/store

Yeah, we know this episode’s podcast title is a misquote, but the sentiment remains true: With the unveiling of a hydrogen-powered 5500 Ram truck, it’s a bold strategy for Ram. What else is a bold strategy is Biden’s 100% tariff on Chinese-built EVs, Tesla’s about-face on firings and hirings, and Rimac shifting away from full electric hypercars. We talk about all of this, plus more, on this week’s podcast.Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, Stitcher, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.SHOW NOTESBiden Administration announces 100% tariffs on Chinese-built vehicles: https://www.reuters.com/markets/us/biden-sharply-hikes-us-tariffs-billions-chinese-chips-cars-2024-05-14/ The Autopian looks at the possible unintended consequences of this: https://www.theautopian.com/president-bidens-100-tariffs-on-chinese-evs-could-have-the-hilarious-outcome-of-lotus-building-cars-in-the-united-states/ Tesla rehires some execs and staff in the Supercharger team: https://www.teslarati.com/tesla-walks-back-supercharger-team-layoffs-rehires-executive/ CNBC’s video on the topic is a who’s who of TWC podcast guests: https://www.cnbc.com/video/2024/05/14/how-tesla-may-have-just-killed-its-most-important-product-superchargers.html Tesla's head of Cybertruck manufacturing, Renjie Zhu, is no longer employed: https://electrek.co/2024/05/13/tesla-head-of-cybertruck-manufacturing-out/ Mate Rimac says EV hypercars are out, hybrids are in: https://www.motor1.com/news/718973/rimac-buyers-dont-want-electric-hypercars/ Ram reportedly working on 5500 truck that's hydrogen powered: https://www.thedrive.com/news/ram-hd-with-hydrogen-fuel-cell-coming-to-the-us-report Subaru partners with Toyota on future EVs: https://www.autoblog.com/2024/05/13/subaru-to-lean-on-toyota-for-three-new-evs-by-2026/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode cover courtesy RamMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayEmail comments and questions to hello@thewattcar.comWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/store

We have two big EV topics to chew on this week, and both involve the heads of organizations. First, let’s discuss Elon. Is Tesla’s success tied to its polarizing CEO, or is there life after Musk? Then, it’s time to talk about the rise and fall (and then another rise and fall) of Henrik Fisker’s automotive empire. Was his vision right but the timing wrong, did Henrik concentrate on the wrong things, and what is this CEO’s next play?Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, Stitcher, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.SHOW NOTESSeparating Elon Musk and Tesla: https://www.thewattcar.com/home/tesla-and-elon-musk-separating-the-machine-from-the-man Fisker closes Manhattan Beach headquarters warns employees end may be near: https://insideevs.com/news/718677/fisker-closing-california-headquarters-report/ What is Henrik Fisker’s story?: https://www.thewattcar.com/home/the-complex-curious-history-of-fisker-the-man-and-the-brand Magna assuming “no additional Fisker Ocean production” in earnings call:  https://finance.yahoo.com/news/magna-international-inc-nyse-mga-132242566.html Fisker reportedly parting out Oceans to provide repair parts: https://www.businessinsider.com/fisker-fixing-some-evs-with-parts-from-inventory-vehicles-sources-2024-4 German contract engineering firm Bertrandt sues Fisker for $13 million in damages for non-payment: https://techcrunch.com/2024/05/03/fisker-pear-alaska-lawsuit-engineering-class-action/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode cover courtesy FiskerMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayEmail comments and questions to hello@thewattcar.comWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/store

Is Mazda trying to correct past mistakes with its Errata…err…we mean Arata? That’s just one of the topics we discuss on this week’s podcast. Other conversations include charging a Tesla on CCS, new CHAdeMO installations, Tesla lays off its Supercharger team, Nissan unveils “unique” concepts, and so much more.Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, Stitcher, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.SHOW NOTESCharging a Tesla at a CCS station: https://www.thewattcar.com/home/my-first-experience-with-ccs1-as-a-tesla-owner-highlights-the-superiority-of-nacs Tesla guts Supercharger team: https://www.axios.com/2024/04/30/tesla-layoffs-supercharger-team https://www.theverge.com/2024/4/30/24145133/tesla-layoffs-supercharger-team-elon-musk-hard-core How Tesla may build its low-cost EV: https://www.thewattcar.com/home/what-and-when-will-the-tesla-low-cost-vehicles-be Is it time to put CHAdeMO out to pasture?: https://www.thewattcar.com/home/is-it-time-to-give-chademo-a-mercy-killing Mazda EV at Beijing Auto Show: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a60604525/mazda-ez-6-ev-sedan-details/ https://www.motor1.com/news/717414/mazda-arata-electric-suv-concept/ Nissan Unveils four EV concepts in Beijing: https://www.autoblog.com/2024/04/25/nissan-concept-cars-revealed-beijing-auto-show-2024/ Dongfeng Cybertruck at Beijing Auto Show: https://www.reddit.com/r/RealTesla/comments/1cfogwe/this_was_quick_chinas_version_of_cyber_truck_by/ Fisker Ocean totaled over a door ding: https://www.carscoops.com/2024/04/fisker-ocean-totaled-over-door-damage-due-to-lack-of-parts/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode cover courtesy MazdaMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayEmail comments and questions to hello@thewattcar.comWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/store

With a win at Volkswagen’s Chattanooga plant, the UAW is on a tear — and now its setting sights on Mercedes manufacturing in Alabama. We delve into how this came to be, and what this could mean for the price of your next EV. We also discuss Tesla, from the company’s Q1 earnings to Cybertruck recalls, and more. Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, Stitcher, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.SHOW NOTESTesla Q1 earnings call: https://www.fool.com/earnings/call-transcripts/2024/04/23/tesla-tsla-q1-2024-earnings-call-transcript/Tesla to include self-driving ride-hailing in app: https://electrek.co/2024/04/23/tesla-teases-uber-like-self-driving-ride-hailing-app/ 73% of workers at Volkswagen’s Chattanooga plant vote to join the UAW: https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/uaw-clinches-watershed-union-victory-volkswagen-tennessee-factory-2024-04-20/ A look back to November 1987 where the first attempt at unionizing a VW plant in the U.S. didn’t end well: https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1987-11-21-fi-5529-story.html Not all workers need to join the UAW: https://www.nlrb.gov/about-nlrb/rights-we-protect/your-rights/employer-union-rights-and-obligations Tennessee Republican governor Bill Lee is not so happy about the vote: https://apnews.com/article/volkswagen-uaw-union-vote-ef85b4319a9496f78835614e08a8cb9e Southern Republican Governors from Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas issue joint statement against UAW: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/04/16/republican-governors-condemn-united-auto-workers-campaigns.html Mercedes workers at an Alabama plant call for union representation vote: https://apnews.com/article/mercedes-alabama-uaw-union-vote-petition-676b92d933735d3e7e963d1f9a5e16c7 UAW sues Mercedes for aggressive anti-union practices : https://uaw.org/uaw-files-charges-in-germany-against-mercedes-benz-companys-anti-union-campaign-against-u-s-autoworkers-violates-new-german-law-on-global-supply-chain-practices/ All 3,878 Cybertrucks recalled due to full throttle issue: https://www.theverge.com/2024/4/19/24134753/tesla-recall-cybertruck-faulty-accelerator-pedal-nhtsa-defect Video of the problem, per TikTok user: https://www.tiktok.com/@el.chepito1985/video/7357758176504089898 History lessons: - Toyota/Lexus had a 7+ million vehicle recall in 2009-’11 for floor mats that slid up and would jam throttle pedals at full throttle: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2009%E2%80%932011_Toyota_vehicle_recalls - In 2021, GM recalled the Bolt for floor mats leading to stuck accelerators: https://gmauthority.com/blog/2021/10/recall-issued-for-chevy-bolt-ev-floor-mats-over-unintended-acceleration/ Tesla ranks #1 for lowest maintenance costs by Consumer Reports: https://electrek.co/2024/04/22/tesla-lowest-maintenance-repair-cost-any-brand/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode cover courtesy Mercedes-BenzMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayEmail comments and questions to hello@thewattcar.comWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/store

Rivian’s hoping to move fast and fix things — like charging experiences for its owners. Thanks to a creative grading system, Rivian could have a winning idea on its hands. But before we discuss that on this week’s podcast, we tackle Tesla Model 3 windshield repair costs, Tesla layoffs, Mercedes redesign strategies, and more.Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, Stitcher, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.SHOW NOTESTesla laying off 10% of its workforce: https://www.theverge.com/2024/4/15/24130735/tesla-layoffs-10-percent-workforce-disappointing-sales Terminated Tesla employees will reportedly receive 60 days of pay and benefits in compliance with federal WARN notice: https://www.fox7austin.com/news/tesla-layoffs-texas-gigafactory-employees-overnight-email Tesla SVP of Powertrain & Energy Engineering Drew Baglino Leaving Tesla after 18 years: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/04/15/tesla-execs-drew-baglino-and-rohan-patel-depart-amid-steep-layoffs.html 2025 Mercedes-Benz EQS redeisgn: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a60454190/2025-mercedes-benz-eqs-revealed/ Mercedes apparently was testing a gas range extender for the EQs: https://www.motor1.com/news/716214/mercedes-eqs-range-extender-test-stopped/ Rivian grading charging points: https://www.thedrive.com/news/rivian-will-use-your-ev-to-spread-the-word-about-bad-public-chargers Ford Mustang Mach-E gets range, performance improvements: https://electrek.co/2024/04/09/ford-2024-mustang-mach-e-range-quicker-acceleration-faster-charging/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode cover courtesy RivianMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayEmail comments and questions to hello@thewattcar.comWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/store

Turns out, supercar producer Rimac might be getting into other EVs via its increasingly efficient battery technology. We jump into that topic on this week’s podcast, but before we do, we discuss the politics of EVs, recent state legislation, EV and hybrid Q1 sales, a fantastic Tesla financing option (although only in China), and more!Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, Stitcher, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.SHOW NOTESThe Politics of Electric Vehicles: https://www.evpolitics.org/ Recent SEMA-supported legislation: https://www.sema.org/news-media/enews/2024/15/kansas-governor-signs-bill-protecting-vehicle-choice-law https://www.sema.org/news-media/enews/2024/15/kentucky-governor-allows-bill-blocking-california-emissions-standards Hybrid sales way up: ​​https://www.theautopian.com/automakers-with-hybrids-kicked-the-crap-out-of-everyone-else/ Tesla and BYD battle for top sales: https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/byd-may-hand-back-top-ev-seller-title-tesla-after-q1-sales-decline-2024-04-02/ Tesla Model Y prices at record lows: https://insideevs.com/news/715129/tesla-model-y-inventory-discount/ Tesla canceling low-cost car plans…Or is it?: https://www.thewattcar.com/home/why-the-tesla-model-2-and-robotaxi-isnt-an-eitheror-proposition Tesla offering 0% financing in China: https://electrek.co/2024/04/03/tesla-0-interest-loans-china-loses-market-shares/ BMW to use Rimac batteries: https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/rimac-supply-batteries-next-generation-electric-bmws This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode cover courtesy BMWMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayEmail comments and questions to hello@thewattcar.comWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/store

From fantastic EV lease deals to manufacturer profit (and loss), on this week’s podcast we look at the realities of the EV market and what it means for the makers and the buyers. The question is, what’s the financial sweet spot for car buyers, and can automakers hit those targets without going out of business. Furthermore, what does this mean for government regulation when it comes to electrification? We dive in.Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, Stitcher, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.SHOW NOTESHot EV Lease Deals: https://www.carsdirect.com/deals-articles/best-green-car-deals Automakers lose about $6,000 on every $50,000 sale: https://www.businessinsider.com/ev-shoppers-dont-want-detroits-pickup-trucks-they-want-this-2024-3 Fisker dramatically slashes prices on Ocean: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a60320119/fisker-ocean-ev-suv-big-price-cuts-possible-bankruptcy/ Edmunds says it’s $70,000 Fisker is now worth $21,000: https://www.edmunds.com/car-news/fisker-ocean-appraisal-long-term-update.html Fiskerati closing shop: https://fiskerati.com/electric-vehicles/charging-forward-our-ev-journey-takes-a-turn/ Tesla suspends Fisker trade ins: https://www.teslarati.com/tesla-suspends-fisker-ocean-trade-ins/This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode cover courtesy KiaMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayEmail comments and questions to hello@thewattcar.comWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/store

Genesis heats things up with Magma edition cars, but is the color too hot to handle? We discuss on this week’s podcast. We also talk about Cupra (which we dub the Magma of VW’s SEAT brand) coming to the U.S., the problems with renting an EV, the ID.Buzz GTX, a Cybertruck teardown, whether Rimac’s next big reveal will be super awesome or a super downer, and more!Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, Stitcher, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.SHOW NOTESThe Watt Car EV Podcast is one of California’s best: https://podcasts.feedspot.com/california_car_podcasts/?feedid=5702433 Genesis launches “Magma” performance sub-brand, shows Neolun large SUV concept: https://www.autoblog.com/2024/03/25/genesis-magma-performance-vehicles-gv60-g80-new-york-reveal/https://www.autoblog.com/2024/03/25/genesis-neolun-concept-new-york-reveal-suv-flagship/ Plug & Charge for all EV rentals needs to happen: https://www.thewattcar.com/integration-of-plug-amp-charge-for-ev-rentals-is-the-revolution-that-needs-to-happenVW Group’s Cupra brand is coming to the America https://insideevs.com/news/713290/volkswagen-seat-cupra-usa/ VW unveils ID.Buzz GTX in Europe: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a60269515/volkswagen-id-buzz-gtx-awd/Rimac teases a hatchback: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C4xzPX_Ml72/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading …But is it really a robotaxi?: https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/technology/rimac-robotaxi Tesla claims majority of Gigafactory Berlin workers vote against unionizing: https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/tesla-says-most-german-plant-employees-vote-against-ig-metall-union-2024-03-20/ Cybertruck teardown: https://youtu.be/khPMITqp91I Fisker/Nissan deal falls through, de-listed from NYSE: https://techcrunch.com/2024/03/25/fisker-nissan-deal-dead-funding-bankruptcy/ https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/ev-startup-fiskers-deal-talks-with-large-automaker-ends-2024-03-25/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode cover by courtesy CupraMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayEmail comments and questions to hello@thewattcar.comWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/store

The Volkswagen Group is the company you can’t help but root for, as VW is once again swinging for the EV fences with the Audi Q6 e-tron, VW ID.3 GTX and ID.7 GTX Tourer, and a potential $25,000 GTI. But there’s more news for VW, as the company’s Chattanooga plant may soon become unionized. In other news, Rivian might be building a higher priced R1 vehicle named the R1X, Honda and Nissan begin talks, and more!Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, Stitcher, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.SHOW NOTESAudi Q6 e-tron: https://www.autoblog.com/2024/03/18/audi-q6-e-tron-deep-dive/ VW ID.3 GTX and ID.7 GTX Tourer: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a60191553/volkswagen-id3-gtx-id7-gtx-wagon-revealed/ VW considering offering EV GTI for $25,000 in U.S. market: https://www.motor1.com/news/712604/vw-sell-electric-gti-us/ Ford looking at $25,000 EVs too: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a60245087/ford-compact-affordable-ev-2026/ Workers at VW’s Chattanooga plant file petition to hold union vote: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/03/18/uaw-says-vw-workers-at-tennessee-plant-file-for-union-election.html Rivian R1X trademark: https://www.motorauthority.com/news/1142559_rivian-r1x-trademarked Rivians can now officially use Tesla Superchargers: https://insideevs.com/news/712748/rivian-r1s-r1t-tesla-supercharger-access-open/ Universal NACS adoption won’t be a cakewalk: https://www.thewattcar.com/home/universal-nacs-adoption-be-careful-what-you-wish-for Honda in talks to partner with Nissan on next-generation EVs: https://global.honda/en/newsroom/news/2024/c240315eng.html?from=RSS?from=newsrelease_area Fisker reportedly preparing for bankruptcy: https://insideevs.com/news/712312/fisker-preparing-to-file-for-bankruptcy/ Fisker pauses production for six weeks: https://www.wired.com/story/fisker-suspends-electric-vehicle-production/ “Judy & Larry” VinFast VF8 owners, share their thoughts: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QvEUASLOmrU This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode cover by courtesy VolkswagenMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayEmail comments and questions to hello@thewattcar.comWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/store

Rivian pulls a rabbit out of a hat at its R2 reveal with a “one more thing” moment for the R3 and R3X. But…is the charging port on the wrong side? Plus, power is restored to Tesla’s Berlin factory, Porsche sets Laguna Seca on fire, the Cybertruck gets put to the test, Aptera needs more funding (again), and so much more — all presented for free on this week’s podcast. Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, Stitcher, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.SHOW NOTESPower restored to Tesla Berlin Gigafactory: https://www.electrive.com/2024/03/12/tesla-ramps-up-production-in-grunheide/ Rivian R3: https://www.thewattcar.com/home/rivian-r2-and-r3-mostly-hits-one-miss Charge port placement on R2, R3 generates controversy: https://www.thewattcar.com/home/charge-port-placement-should-tesla-dictate-the-terms Porsche Taycan Turbo GT beats Model S Plaid lap times: https://www.thewattcar.com/home/porsche-taycan-turbo-gt-battle-of-the-ev-super-sedans-intensifies Car and Driver tests the Cybertruck Beast: https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a60115630/2024-tesla-cybertruck-beast-test/ Heavy D Sparks puts tracks on a Cybertruck: https://youtu.be/6BfQ0yW0pk8?si=pM6b2Ice6nWx343S Ford E-Transit gets bigger battery: https://www.autoblog.com/2024/03/05/2024-ford-e-transit-gets-a-bigger-battery-quicker-charging/ Jaguar to end production of all ICE models to go full-EV next year: https://insideevs.com/news/ Aptera needs more money: https://aptera.us/february-updates-progress-transparency-and-looking-ahead/ Aptera from 2021: https://aptera.us/community/discussion/120-days-until-first-delivery/ Canoo does 23-to-1 reverse stock split: https://electrek.co/2024/03/06/canoo-goev-reverse-stock-split-price-new-low/ GM cuts price of Blazer EV: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a60139645/2024-chevy-blazer-ev-on-sale-price-cut/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode cover by courtesy RivianMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayEmail comments and questions to hello@thewattcar.comWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/store

Stellantis is coming out of the gate strong with its future Charger EV that is pure, unadulterated, and unapologetically Dodge. On this week’s podcast, we sort through the latest details and decide whether or not Dodge is on the road to success. Then, Rivian’s R2 details leak ahead of schedule, Ford gets access to the Supercharger network, BYD’s Seagull flies (although not in the U.S.), Karma goes full electric, Fisker hits more speed bumps, and more!Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, Stitcher, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.SHOW NOTESNew Dodge Charger EV: https://www.thewattcar.com/home/2024-dodge-charger-daytona-can-the-anti-tesla-win-over-ev-skeptics Rivian R2 info leaked: https://electrek.co/2024/03/04/rivian-r2-electric-suv-leaks-price-range/ Ford finally gets access to Tesla Supercharger network with NACS adapter: https://insideevs.com/news/710517/tesla-supercharger-adapters-online-february/ Teslas charging extra at Supercharger network: https://insideevs.com/news/710822/tesla-supercharger-cost-ford-evs/ Tom Moloughney tests the official Ford CCS/J3400 adapter: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fzOBG0Shop8 Rivian announces Supercharger access: https://electrek.co/2024/02/29/rivian-confirms-tesla-supercharger-access-in-march/ BYD Seagull: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izvdO-zdlKg Ioniq 5 gets a rear wiper: https://insideevs.com/news/710930/2025-hyundai-ioniq-5-updates/ Karma unveils all-electric Gyesera: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a60077088/karma-gyesera-ev-revealed/ Fisker may go out of business: https://techcrunch.com/2024/02/29/fisker-layoffs-cash-going-concern-dealerships/ Fisker reportedly in “Advanced Talks” with Nissan: https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/nissan-fisker-advanced-talks-investment-partnership-sources-2024-03-01/ Fisker Ocean positive review: https://www.theautopian.com/the-fisker-ocean-is-way-better-than-you-think-it-is/ “Volcano Group” shuts power off at Tesla’s Gigafactory: https://www.dw.com/en/germany-far-left-group-claims-act-of-sabotage-on-tesla/a-68440976 This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode cover by courtesy StellantisMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayEmail comments and questions to hello@thewattcar.comWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/store

Is the Apple Car dead? Did it ever really exist? We discuss the past, present, and future of the vehicle that never was. We also chat about Cybertruck sightings, Elon Musk’s “Ludicrous” claims, Chinese manufacturers entering the U.S. market (will they or wont they…or have they already), the Nikola Badger returns (maybe), and so much more!Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, Stitcher, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.SHOW NOTESApple Car is dead…again:https://www.thewattcar.com/home/apple-car-would-it-have-been-iphone-or-lisa-20 https://www.theverge.com/2024/2/27/24084907/apple-electric-car-project-titan-shuts-down Tesla Roadster hype: https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1762716007913652650 Tesla Model 3 “Ludicrous” (Performance) coming?: https://electrek.co/2024/02/26/tesla-model-3-ludicrous-spotted-being-filmed-promo/https://www.thewattcar.com/home/why-im-not-buying-a-model-3-highland Alliance for American Manufacturing sounds the alarm bell on Chinese OEMs: https://www.americanmanufacturing.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/on-a-collision-course-report-final-022324.pdf BYD says not to worry about them entering U.S. Market: https://fortune.com/2024/02/27/byd-america-mexico-manufacturing-plant-politics-tesla-brazil/ BYD unveils Yangwang U9 supercar: https://www.teslarati.com/byd-yanwang-u9-ferrari-lamborghini-tesla-roadster/ HiPhi pausing manufacturing of high-end vehicles: https://www.thewattcar.com/home/hiphi-when-excellence-doesnt-always-guarantee-success VW ID.7 Tourer: https://electrek.co/2024/02/19/volkswagen-debuts-id-7-tourer-spacious-station-wagon-impressive-range/ VW Scirocco EV rumors: https://electrek.co/2024/02/21/vw-reviving-scirocco-stylish-ev-sports-car-boxster-features/ The Badger’s back?: https://youtu.be/Fl8L3kWCpFQ?si=HG3-N4wG-QKm8x2f This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode cover by Jordan BebekMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayEmail comments and questions to hello@thewattcar.comWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/store

Building EV charging infrastructure is far from simple. From EV charging companies to real estate, there’s a lot to consider. This week, we welcome real estate attorney-turned-EV advocate Jason Goldfarb to the podcast to dive into the nitty gritty. What are the flaws in NEVI? What are some of the potential landmines awaiting those looking to install public chargers? We discuss that — and so much more — on this week’s podcast.Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, Stitcher, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.SHOW NOTESThis week’s guest is Jason Goldfarb.https://www.frblaw.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasongoldfarb/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode cover courtesy Electrify AmericaMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayEmail comments and questions to hello@thewattcar.comWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/store

Is Chrysler’s latest EV concept tapping into awesomeness, or does its strangely named Halcyon concept fall short of the company’s sedan design from two decades ago? In other weird name news, we discuss Nikola’s HYLA hydrogen fueling station opening (along with other hydrogen news, both good and bad), the Ionna EV charging consortium, Stellantis moving to J3400, problems with the Fisker Ocean, and so much more.Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, Stitcher, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.SHOW NOTESChrysler Halcyon Concept: https://www.thewattcar.com/home/chrysler-halcyon-can-this-ev-concept-bring-back-the-300s-magic Nikola opens first HYLA hydrogen fueling station: https://nikolamotor.com/press_releases/nikola-opens-first-hyla-hydrogen-refueling-station-in-southern-california/Massive hydrogen reservoir discovered beneath an Albanian mine: https://www.livescience.com/planet-earth/energy/massive-hydrogen-reservoir-discovered-beneath-an-albanian-mine-could-be-an-untapped-source-of-clean-energy Shell permanently closes all of its hydrogen refueling stations for cars in California: https://www.hydrogeninsight.com/transport/shell-permanently-closes-all-of-its-hydrogen-refuelling-stations-for-cars-in-california/2-1-1596104 Ionna: https://www.greencarreports.com/news/1142265_ionna-ev-charging-network-rivals-tesla-first-stations-2024 Stellantis adopts J3400: https://electrek.co/2024/02/12/stellantis-adopt-nacs-no-deal-with-tesla/ Car & Driver drives Lucid Gravity: https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a46694299/2025-lucid-gravity-protoype-drive/ Long wheelbase Cadillac Escalade iQL EV: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a46687553/cadillac-escalade-iql-ev-confirmed/ Geely EV brand Zeekr plans sales in Mexico: https://electrek.co/2024/02/07/geely-auto-inks-deal-zeekr-sell-evs-mexico-hints-expansion-south-america/ Early Fisker Oceans reportedly plagued with quality/reliability issues: https://techcrunch.com/2024/02/09/fisker-ocean-braking-power-loss-problems-investigation/Tesla plans largest Supercharger location in the world: https://insideevs.com/news/708486/tesla-supercharger-largest-in-the-world-california/ This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode cover courtesy ChryslerMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayEmail comments and questions to hello@thewattcar.comWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/store

Tesla’s recall strikes our very own show, but now the icons are bigger on our Model 3 and we’ve marked ourselves safe from the potential ensuing madness. In this week’s news, unions are back, as VW potentially welcomes the UAW into its Chattanooga plant, Toyota suffers its own “dieselgate,” but we expect the results to differ greatly from the OG controversy, Dodge puts its Charger EV on the road, Chinese EV company HiPhi outperforms Tesla, and more! Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, Stitcher, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.SHOW NOTESUAW claims majority of workers at Volkswagen’s Chattanooga plant have voted to unionize: https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/uaw-says-majority-workers-vw-tennessee-plant-seek-join-union-2024-02-06/ Toyota’s own dieselgate?: https://www.autoblog.com/2024/01/30/toyota-group-plant-raided-in-japan-after-cheating-on-engine-testing/ Dodge Charger EV "the next generation of muscle”: https://www.motor1.com/news/707226/new-dodge-charger-daytona-debut-march-5Chinese EV HiPhi X outperforms competitors in Norwegian winter range test: https://www.wired.com/story/tesla-hiphi-ev-range-crown/ Ferrari benchmark testing a Model S Plaid in Maranello: https://www.motor1.com/news/707448/ferrari-testing-tesla-model-s-plaid/ Lucid offering test drives at Saks Fifth Avenue: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/saks-announces-first-ever-electric-vehicle-partnership-with-lucid-302054052.html Tesla driver wears Apple Vision Pro headset while driving: https://gizmodo.com/apple-vision-pro-tesla-driver-arrested-autopilot-1851224830 This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode cover by Ed SanchezMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayEmail comments and questions to hello@thewattcar.comWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/store

Rivian has accidentally announced the date and location of its R2 chassis unveiling — and that location is a grassy knoll. We chat about that on this week’s podcast, as well as Fisker delivery woes being confirmed, Porsche unveiling its electric Macan, Lucid developing its more affordable EV, GM second guessing its own decisions, Stellantis arguing that the “s” in “speed” stands for “safety,” and more. Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, Stitcher, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.SHOW NOTESRevoy: https://www.revoy.com Fisker delivery numbers: https://www.teslarati.com/fisker-unsold-vehicles-2023/ Porsche unveils Macan EV: https://www.thewattcar.com/home/porsche-macan-ev-vs-tesla-model-y-apples-to-apples-or-apples-to-orangesLucid mid-size coming “sooner than you think”:  https://insideevs.com/news/706160/lucid-midsize-project-development/ Rivian R2 SUV reportedly will be unveiled in March: https://www.theverge.com/2024/1/24/24049639/rivian-r2-ev-march-announcement-launch-laguna-beachGM reconsidering its “all-in” strategy on BEVs: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/01/30/gm-to-release-plug-in-hybrid-vehicles-backtracking-on-product-plans.html Stellantis CEO says EVs’ rapid acceleration is a “safety feature”: https://www.autoblog.com/2024/01/29/quick-ev-acceleration-makes-them-safer-stellantis-ceo-says/ California state legislator proposes mandatory speed governors in all new cars sold in state by 2027: https://www.sfgate.com/bayarea/article/california-bill-physically-stop-speeding-18628308.php This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode cover courtesy RivianMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayEmail comments and questions to hello@thewattcar.comWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/store

With ice storms a-brewin’ and the media (once again) closing in on the realities of cold-weather EV charging, there’s a lot to talk about this week. But first, there’s a tale about the Chevy Bolt battery recall that must be told, as well as a dealer’s run-in with L2 cable thieves and EV investments. After all of this, we discuss Edmunds and its ability to instantly claim a Fisker Ocean (are there more fish in that sea?), Lordstown’s re-rebirth, and more!Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, Stitcher, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.SHOW NOTESTeslas in Chicago suburb iced-out (weather, not internal-combustion) due to extreme cold, wouldn’t charge: https://www.fox32chicago.com/news/dead-teslas-oak-brook The EV blogosphere goes on counter-offensive: https://electrek.co/2024/01/17/electric-vehicles-fail-lower-rate-than-gas-cars-extreme-cold/ https://electrek.co/2024/01/17/6-ways-to-get-the-best-range-from-your-electric-car-in-winter/ https://insideevs.com/news/705057/chicago-tesla-stranded-ev-charging/ https://qz.com/chicago-evs-tesla-cold-weather-battery-performance-1851172536 https://insideevs.com/news/705254/tesla-charging-canada-negative-31-degrees/ EV’s work fine in the cold, if you know what you’re doing: https://www.fastcompany.com/91011373/evs-work-fine-in-the-cold-in-norway-heres-how-they-do-it Buying into the narrative “nobody’s buying EVs”? BMW isn’t: https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/bmw-cfo-sales-growth-is-mostly-electric-combustion-engine-tipping-point-passes-2024-01-15/ Edmunds buys a Fisker Ocean: https://www.edmunds.com/car-news/long-term-road-test-2023-fisker-ocean-extreme-grow.html Lordstown Motors is back! This time as LandX Motors: https://techcrunch.com/2024/01/19/lordstown-motors-steve-burns-landx-motors-endurance-pickup/ The Watt Car drives the Lordstown Endurance: https://www.thewattcar.com/home/lordstown-endurance-first-drive-back-to-the-basics This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode cover courtesy FiskerMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayEmail comments and questions to hello@thewattcar.comWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/store

The CES Show is back, baby! EVs galore spread across Las Vegas and one of our correspondents at ground zero gave us plenty to talk about this week. From wild EV concepts from Honda, Kia, and VinFast to underground mining, MCS chargers, EVTOLs, and more, we dive into the electronics show that’s seemingly on track to replace all U.S. auto shows. Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, Stitcher, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application.SHOW NOTESHonda 0 concepts: https://www.theverge.com/2024/1/9/24030236/honda-zero-ev-global-series-concept-ces Kia PBV (Platform Beyond Vehicle) Modular Chassis Concept: https://worldwide.kia.com/int/pbv-lineup VinFast Wild pickup and VF 3 mini SUV:https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a46330110/vinfast-vf-wild-revealed/ https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a46340605/vinfast-vf3-ev-america/ VinFast e-bike: https://vinfastauto.us/vehicles/e-bike Caterpillar underground Mining EV: https://electrek.co/2024/01/12/caterpillar-brings-electric-equipment-ecosystem-to-ces2024/ Xpeng EVTOL concept: https://mashable.com/article/ces-flying-car-xpeng-aeroht Xpeng Land Aircraft Carrier: https://luxurylaunches.com/transport/10-01-2024-xpeng-flying-car.php Mullen Five RS: https://insideevs.com/news/704192/mullen-five-rs-suv-reveal/ M-B G-Class EV tank turn: https://www.facebook.com/reel/274619918962241?mibextid=9drbnH&s=yWDuG2&fs=e This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. SanchezEpisode cover courtesy HondaMusic courtesy Twisterium at PixabayEmail comments and questions to hello@thewattcar.comWebsite: https://www.thewattcar.comBuy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/store