Podcasts about oems

Dale Earnhardt Jr. sits down with NASCAR President Steve O'Donnell to talk about NASCAR's latest announcement: increasing horsepower at select tracks, Playoff formats, the lawsuit, and more.In his 30th year with NASCAR, O'Donnell steps into the president role after Steve Phelps' promotion to commissioner. He dives into the Next Gen car, the push to bring in new OEMs, and the future of the All-Star Race. O'Donnell explains that NASCAR's top priority moving forward is getting back to its roots, with returns to fan-favorite venues like Bowman Gray Stadium and North Wilkesboro.It's a can't-miss conversation about where the sport is headed and how NASCAR plans to stay true to what made it great. And for more content check out our YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@DirtyMoMediaReal fans wear Dirty Mo. Hit the link and join the crew.

In this episode of Loaded and Rolling, we're joined by Dean Marris, Chief Data Science Officer, and Craig Marris, Chief Sustainability Officer at EROAD, to discuss the intersection of sustainability and artificial intelligence in the trucking industry. They explore how fleets can leverage technology to navigate the "messy middle" of transitioning to more sustainable practices while maintaining profitability. Topics covered in this episode include: Digital Twin Simulation: Learn how fleets can use digital twins to test and de-risk the transition to alternative fuels and electric vehicles before making significant investments. AI for Efficiency: Discover how AI is helping to reduce waste in the supply chain, from minimizing empty miles to preventing food spoilage in reefers. Safety Innovations: Hear about the latest in AI-powered multi-camera systems that are improving driver safety by reducing blind spots and preventing collisions. The Power of Data Sharing: Understand why collaboration and data sharing between carriers, shippers, and OEMs are crucial for achieving industry-wide sustainability and safety goals. ⁠⁠Follow the Loaded and Rolling Podcast⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Other FreightWaves Shows⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Autonomy Markets, Grayson Brulte and Walter Piecyk discuss the accelerating global expansion of robotaxis. In London, Wayve is proving its adaptable, AI-powered autonomous system can navigate complex roadways, from double roundabouts to unpredictable pedestrian interactions without reliance on LiDAR.Wayve's strategy of working hand-in-hand with OEMs sets it apart from Tesla's vision-only approach, allowing flexibility depending on manufacturer demands. At the same time, institutional investors are beginning to pay more attention to the autonomous vehicles, particularly focusing not just on the technology, but on broader ecosystem of energy, fleet management, and vehicle depreciation that will define the autonomy economy.Meanwhile, the Middle East is rapidly positioning itself as an autonomy hub. Dubai has granted Baidu Apollo permits with an eye toward fully driverless operations by 2026, while at the same time Uber introduced an autonomous vehicle tier in Abu Dhabi.As the U.K., EU, and UAE push ahead on autonomy, the race to define the global robotaxi market is intensifying, reshaping not just mobility, but the economics underpinning the future of global autonomous vehicle fleets.Episode Chapters0:00 Live from London3:02 Wayve in London10:47 UK & EU Autonomous Vehicle Regulations 13:20 Moove & the Management of Autonomous Vehicles 17:44 UK AV Market18:47 Waymo in New York 21:29 D.C. Shutdown 22:48 D.C. Politics of Tesla FSD26:23 Kodiak28:21 Mobileye32:47 EV Sales34:32 AVs in the UAE38:11 Next WeekRecorded on Thursday, October 2, 2025--------About The Road to AutonomyThe Road to Autonomy provides market intelligence and strategic advisory services to institutional investors and companies, delivering insights needed to stay ahead of emerging trends in the autonomy economy™. To learn more, say hello (at) roadtoautonomy.com.Sign up for This Week in The Autonomy Economy newsletter: https://www.roadtoautonomy.com/ae/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1161: Today we're talking about the end of the EV lease credit frenzy and how dealers and OEMs are adjusting. We'll also hit Hertz's big push into e-commerce with Tom Brady, and OpenAI's bold play to challenge TikTok with AI video.With the $7,500 EV lease credit gone, September's sales rush gave way to a new normal. Dealers say volume could dip at first, but manufacturers are adjusting incentives, production, and lease programs while retailers recalibrate inventory and ordering strategies.Ford CEO Jim Farley said he “wouldn't be surprised” if EV sales fall by half without the federal incentive.Like we covered a couple of days ago, GM and Ford are extending the lease credit through creative captive finance workarounds, while Hyundai is offering a $7,500 cash incentive on the 2025 Ioniq 5 and plans to cut 2026 model prices by up to $9,800.Dealer Andy Guelcher says “It was time for this to go away, and I think that [EVs] can stand on their own,” but he expects some near-term demand bumps.“Nobody wants to be in a position where we're stuck with a lot of inventory that's not moving,” said Dealer Ken Ganley.Hertz is going all-in on digital retail, launching a new e-commerce platform that lets customers browse, finance, and purchase used cars entirely online, positioning retail as its primary sales channel, according to CEO Gil West.The new HertzCarSales.com site has evolved from a catalog into a full-service e-commerce platform.The move builds on Hertz's August partnership with Amazon Autos, now covering all 45 Hertz Car Sales locations.Hertz has also expanded its Rent2Buy program to more than 100 cities, giving shoppers extended test drives before committing.A national campaign with Tom Brady debuts this week, promoting the simplicity of buying a Hertz vehicle.CEO Gil West called it “a major step forward in modernizing how we serve our customers.”OpenAI is betting AI-powered video can win the race for user attention, announcing Sora 2, a new social-media app for its AI video generator. Sora 2 lets users create HD video clips with audio from text prompts and upload themselves into AI-generated worlds.The TikTok competitor will include vertical feeds, algorithm-driven recommendations, and safeguards against endless doomscrolling.0:00 Looking back at the history of More Than Cars2:00 Intro with Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier2:30 The Big More Than Cars Launch5:33 Upcoming ASOTU Edge Webinar with Uber For Business6:22 How Dealers and OEMs are Responding To The End of the EV Tax Credit10:01 Hertz Goes All In On Digital Car Sales12:Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

- OEMs Step Up to Replace EV Incentives - Hyundai Slashes IONIQ 5 Price - Hyundai Simplifies Kona EV Lineup - Stellantis Wants to Sell Free2Move - Dodge Axes Top EV Charger Trim - BYD's Sales Drop - Renault and Chery Talk Joint Assembly and Sales - U.S. Market Share Winners and Losers - GM Shows New Lunar Rover

- OEMs Step Up to Replace EV Incentives - Hyundai Slashes IONIQ 5 Price - Hyundai Simplifies Kona EV Lineup - Stellantis Wants to Sell Free2Move - Dodge Axes Top EV Charger Trim - BYD's Sales Drop - Renault and Chery Talk Joint Assembly and Sales - U.S. Market Share Winners and Losers - GM Shows New Lunar Rover

Join Bill Tierney of The Data Center Construction Alliance, as he discusses some of the emerging challenges facing data center development today. Topics will include how increasing collaboration between OEMs, owners, contractors, and sub-contractors is leading to some exciting and innovative solutions in the design and construction of data centers. He will also share some examples of how collaboration has led to new ideas and methodologies in the field. 

The guys continue the second half (N-Z) of their discussion about cars they think OEMs should bring back to the market. They debate fun commuters for Ian, who lives in Perth, Australia and has wildly varied distance needs. Then, Andrew Z. has a young family and needs kid-hauling space, but yearns for a Miata (which is on the horizon). The guys dive into social media questions, which include asking about rear diffusers on non-sporty models; and why doesn't Ford build a 4dr Mustang branded as a Lincoln?  Audio-only MP3 is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and 10 other platforms. Look for us on Tuesdays if you'd like to watch us debate, disagree and then go drive again! 00:00 - Intro 02:12 - Tom Matano, Father Of The Miata, Has Passed 05:54 - Porsche “Product Strategy Realignment!” 08:36 - EV Battery Ejector Concept ???? 15:21 - Paul's List Of Cars (N-Z) 35:13 - Todd's List Of Cars (N-Z) 1:02:51 - Hooked On Driving October 2025 Events 1:04:00 - Car Debate #1: Don't Drive It, You'll Want One 1:16:50 - Car Debate #2: Two More Years Until Miata 1:27:30 - Audience Questions On Social Media Rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, and subscribe to our two YouTube channels. Write to us your Topic Tuesdays, Car Conclusions and those great Car Debates at everydaydrivertv@gmail.com or everydaydriver.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today I'm joined by Joseph Agresta, Jr., Chair of the Mercedes-Benz Dealer Board. We get into why his top salespeople are fluent in Korean, the future of Mercedes EVs in a post–tax credit market, and how outdated incentive structures are frustrating customers — plus plenty more along the way. This episode is brought to you by: 1. Podium - Don't miss another lead. With Podium's AI BDC, dealerships are seeing an 80% increase in after-hours appointments by handling leads 24/7. Instantly respond to inquiries, book test drives, and let your team focus on what matters: closing deals. Learn how Podium can help you sell more cars @ https://www.podium.com/car-dealership-guy 2. vAuto - As the industry's premier provider of end-to-end inventory management solutions, vAuto gives every dealer—from a single point store to the largest groups—the data, insights and tools they need to maximize returns from the new and used vehicle inventory investments. Known for its game-changing inventory management innovations, vAuto provides AI-powered predictive data science to help dealers see their future and consistently make the right, ROI-minded decisions with every vehicle they appraise, acquire, price and retail. Learn more @ https://www.vauto.com/contact-us/#requestDemo 3. Nomad Content Studio - Most dealers still fumble social—posting dry inventory pics or handing it off without a plan. Meanwhile, the store down the street is racking up millions of views and selling / buying cars using video. That's where Nomad Content Studio comes in. We train your own videographer, direct what to shoot, and handle strategy, to posting, to feedback. Want in with the team behind George Saliba, EV Auto, and top auto groups? Book a call at http://www.trynomad.co Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: For dealers: Industry job board ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://jobs.dealershipguy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Dealership recruiting ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.cdgrecruiting.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Fix your dealership's social media ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.trynomad.co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Request to be a podcast guest ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.cdgguest.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ For industry vendors: Advertise with Car Dealership Guy ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.cdgpartner.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Industry job board ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://jobs.dealershipguy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Request to be a podcast guest ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://www.cdgguest.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Topics: 01:34 What does the Mercedes Board Chair do? 02:38 History of Benzel-Busch Motor Car? 05:54 Biggest EV market challenges and strategies? 13:09 How do brokers impact the market? 24:52 Using AI for business efficiency how? 29:03 Best lead conversion strategies? 33:09 How to improve manufacturer-dealer relations? 50:22 Ultra luxury market insights? 53:11 Future outlook for the auto industry? Car Dealership Guy Socials: X ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠x.com/GuyDealership⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠instagram.com/cardealershipguy/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠tiktok.com/@guydealership⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Threads ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠threads.net/@cardealershipguy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Everything else ➤ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠dealershipguy.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of the IoT For All Podcast, Harald Fuchs, CEO of Freeeway, and Mark van den Berg from KPN IoT join Ryan Chacon to discuss how rising data consumption in connected cars is reshaping the automotive industry and turning connectivity from a cost to a monetized service. The conversation covers IoT monetization strategies, connected cars as entertainment hubs, autonomous driving, digital services within vehicles, including payment integrations, connected cars in China, and evolving business models in automotive IoT.Harald Fuchs is a technology and telecom executive with over 25 years of international experience leading high-growth businesses and driving innovation in connectivity. Under his leadership, Freeeway has become a trusted partner for OEMs, industrial agriculture companies, and the automotive sector - pioneering flat IoT device pricing models for consumer device resellers. Before founding Freeeway, Harald served as Commercial Director for Central Europe at Ericsson.Mark van den Berg is Strategic Business Developer for IoT at KPN, the leading ICT provider in the Netherlands. With extensive experience in the IoT domain, he has built deep expertise in eUICC/Global SIM technology, long-term connectivity strategies, and international partnership building.Freeeway AG is a Vienna-based software and IoT connectivity provider. Operating as an MVNO and IoT Monetization SaaS platform, Freeeway enables businesses to transform connected devices from a cost driver into a scalable revenue stream. The company's Monetization Hub integrates global connectivity with powerful software that manages customer identification, legal compliance, taxation, data usage tracking, charging recognition, and payment collection - all in a single SW suite.KPN IoT is a division of KPN, a leading provider of telecommunications and IT services in the Netherlands for over 140 years. In collaboration with a network of partners worldwide and with extensive experience across industries, including automotive, manufacturing, logistics, EV charging, and healthcare, KPN IoT empowers customers with the best global IoT connectivity solutions.Discover more about IoT monetization at https://www.iotforall.comFind IoT solutions: https://marketplace.iotforall.comMore about Freeeway: https://freeeway.comMore about KPN IoT: https://m2m.kpn.com/enConnect with Harald: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harald-fuchs-8392078/Connect with Mark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markvandberg/(00:00) Intro(00:11) Harald Fuchs, Mark van den Berg, Freeeway, and KPN IoT(05:16) Explaining IoT and connected cars(11:03) The impact of rising data consumption on OEMs(13:56) How OEMs can monetize connectivity(20:35) Digital services inside of vehicles(24:38) Are OEMs ready to think like digital service providers?(28:11) The business model of connected cars(30:40) The future of IoT monetization(34:23) Learn more and follow upSubscribe on YouTube: https://bit.ly/2NlcEwmJoin Our Newsletter: https://newsletter.iotforall.comFollow Us on Social: https://linktr.ee/iot4all

Simon Dudley, independent consultant and with extensive former experience at Polycom, Lifesize, and Logitech, examines how customers, OEMs and resellers can navigate the increasingly commoditised video conferencing market.Simon and tom discuss:• Why most video bars are “good enough” and what that means for differentiation• How ESG, financial transparency, and global distribution are becoming key buying factors• The importance of understanding your A/B/C brand status as a vendor or reseller• Why customers should look beyond specs and prioritise reliability, support, and management tools• Lessons from the PC industry and how they could apply to the future of MTR devicesThanks to Pure-IP, this episode's sponsor, for their continued support. Find Simon's website here: Excession Events 

In today's episode, we're joined by Jacob Deysel, CEO of Critica, a company that is exploring rare earths in Western Australia. Jacob brings a wealth of experience across multiple commodities and jurisdictions, and is now focused on building a project in Australia at a time when rare earths are front and centre in the global supply chain conversation. We'll be discussing Critica's roadmap built around Scale, Simplicity, and Speed and what it really takes to deliver on that. We'll also touch on the challenges of metallurgy and processing, competing in a market dominated by China, and the all-important path to commercialisation and offtake agreements. Finally, we'll hear Jacob's personal reflections on leadership, lessons from his career, and what excites him most as he drives Critica forward. KEY TAKEAWAYS Critica is moving beyond just exploration to rebrand as Australia's next rare earth developer, with its flagship Jupiter Project positioned as the largest clay-hosted rare earth deposit in Australia. The Jupiter project is differentiated by its scale, simplicity, and speed. A key technical advantage is its highly homogeneous deposit and a clean flow sheet that achieves 95% mass rejection Critica has mitigated key industry risks by being a well-funded project with a milestone-driven approach to spending. Its location in Western Australia, a Tier 1 jurisdiction with stable government  Critica's goal is not to replace China, but to build a preferred non-China alternative for rare earth supply, focusing on producing a traceable, ESG-compliant feedstock BEST MOMENTS "We are no longer just an explorer in the rare earth space. Under my leadership, Critica is rebadging... and we're moving forward as being Australia's next rare earth developer." "The biggest technical risk that most companies struggle with is metallurgy at scale... We are addressing that through a number of parallel work streams that's running at the moment." "Being a clay deposit have allowed us to reduce the mass upfront by 95%, upgrade the grade, the feed grade from the resource by about 800% before we get to leaching." "We are not replacing China, we are building a preferred non-China alternative in Western Australia... OEMs are really looking for traceable, ESG safe, compliant rare earth feedstock." VALUABLE RESOURCES Mail:        ⁠rob@mining-international.org⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/⁠ X:              ⁠https://twitter.com/MiningRobTyson⁠  YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/c/DigDeepTheMiningPodcast⁠  Web:        ⁠http://www.mining-international.org⁠ GUEST SOCIALS  https://critica.limited/ https://x.com/Critica_CRI CONTACT METHOD ⁠rob@mining-international.org⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-tyson-3a26a68/⁠ Podcast Description Rob Tyson is an established recruiter in the mining and quarrying sector and decided to produce the “Dig Deep” The Mining Podcast to provide valuable and informative content around the mining industry. He has a passion and desire to promote the industry and the podcast aims to offer the mining community an insight into people's experiences and careers covering any mining discipline, giving the listeners helpful advice and guidance on industry topics.  This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In today's Side Mirror, I reflect on a week working with three different teams in Melbourne—one was a peer mentoring group and two were the leadership teams at automotive OEMs. It was a fulfilling week, and their feedback reminded me how quickly people can grasp the Fulfilling Performance framework—and how much more they want time to practice releasing handbrakes once they've spotted them.So I want to share how you can move from identifying friction to defining practical actions—and why those actions need to be big enough to make a difference, but not so big that you try to “boil the ocean.”About AndyI'm a business leader, coach, and the creator of the Fulfilling Performance framework—designed to help people bring more of themselves to what they do and experience greater fulfilment and performance as a result.Over the past 25+ years, I've led and developed businesses including Alphabet UK, BMW Financial Services in the UK, Singapore, and New Zealand, and Tesla Financial Services UK. Alongside this, I've coached individuals and facilitated leadership development programmes in 17 countries across Asia, Europe, and North America.In 2016, I founded Aquilae to support leaders and teams in the mobility sector and beyond. Through workshops, coaching, and peer mentoring, we enable high performance that's also fulfilling—for individuals, teams, and organisations.I'm also the host of CAREER-VIEW MIRROR, where I share the life and career journeys of key players in the automotive and mobility world.Learn more about Fulfilling PerformanceCheck out Release the Handbrake! The Fulfilling Performance HubConnect with AndyLinkedIn: Andy FollowsEmail: cvm@aquilae.co.ukJoin a peer mentoring team: Aquilae AcademyThank you to our sponsors:ASKE ConsultingEmail: hello@askeconsulting.co.ukAquilaeEmail: cvm@aquilae.co.ukEpisode Directory on Instagram @careerviewmirror  If you enjoy listening to our guests career stories, please follow CAREER-VIEW MIRROR in your podcast app. Episode recorded on 25 September, 2025.

On this episode of Mission Matters, Adam Torres interviews Kurt Ranka, Managing Principal at Ducker Carlisle. Kurt explains how OEMs and manufacturers can rethink pricing amidst cooling inflation by moving away from cost-plus models toward value-based strategies that better reflect product value, services, and customer perception. Follow Adam on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/askadamtorres/ for up to date information on book releases and tour schedule. Apply to be a guest on our podcast: https://missionmatters.lpages.co/podcastguest/ Visit our website: https://missionmatters.com/ More FREE content from Mission Matters here: https://linktr.ee/missionmattersmedia Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of Mission Matters, ⁠Adam Torres⁠ interviews ⁠Kurt Ranka⁠, Managing Principal at Ducker Carlisle. Kurt explains how OEMs and manufacturers can rethink pricing amidst cooling inflation by moving away from cost-plus models toward value-based strategies that better reflect product value, services, and customer perception. Follow Adam on Instagram at ⁠https://www.instagram.com/askadamtorres/⁠ for up to date information on book releases and tour schedule. Apply to be a guest on our podcast: ⁠https://missionmatters.lpages.co/podcastguest/⁠ Visit our website: ⁠https://missionmatters.com/⁠ More FREE content from Mission Matters here: ⁠https://linktr.ee/missionmattersmedia⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Season 5: Episode 217In this episode of North American Ag Spotlight, Chrissy Wozniak welcomes back Gwendoline Legrand, Co-Director of FIRA, to discuss the upcoming FIRA USA 2025 event taking place October 21–23 in Woodland, California. Known as the premier gathering for agricultural robotics and automation, FIRA USA brings together growers, innovators, OEMs, startups, and investors for three days of live demos, collaboration, and networking.Gwendoline shares what makes Woodland such a strong venue, why in-field demos are critical for showing growers real-world solutions, and how FIRA continues to evolve by listening directly to farmers and industry stakeholders. She also reveals exciting new announcements, including John Deere's autonomous ultra tractor demo and the strong involvement of New Holland and other leading manufacturers.This year marks the launch of the Women in Ag Robotics Award, celebrating trailblazing women shaping the future of automation in agriculture. Gwen explains why this award is so important, how it will highlight women across all roles in the industry, and how it aims to inspire the next generation of leaders.With more than 40 states and 50 countries represented, FIRA USA 2025 is set to be a truly global event, offering growers free registration and unmatched access to the future of farming.Learn more about about at https://fira-usa.com/Learn more about the Women in Ag Robotics Award at https://airtable.com/appngGw7fx3GXRLN5/pagSGexHt8UUIrYFA/form#farm #farming #agricultureNorth American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.comWant to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.comDon't just thank a farmer, pray for one too!Send us a textEcorobotix, together with DFS Finance & AgDirect, is making it easier for growers to access the ARA Ultra High Precision Sprayer. Flexible purchase and lease programs offer competitive rates, deferred payments, and end-of-term options, helping farms cut inputs, reduce labor & boost profitability without straining cash flow. Learn more HERESubscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com

Europe's automotive industry is at a crossroads, navigating the seismic shift from hardware excellence to the Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) paradigm.

In today's private equity landscape, the CFO role has become one of the most difficult and misunderstood jobs in the business world. Everybody thinks it's about reporting numbers, tracking financials, and cutting costs.  But in reality, being a PE-backed CFO means living at the intersection of cash obsession, strategy, and leadership, while managing more stakeholders than anyone else in the C-suite. Too many CFOs still act like historians, closing the books weeks late and delivering rearview-mirror data. Meanwhile, companies are flying blind, making decisions without visibility into the most critical factor: cash flow. With leverage levels higher than ever and private equity funds demanding fast exits, that blind spot isn't just dangerous, it's fatal. That's why the best private equity CFOs don't just manage numbers.  They manage people, processes, and partners. They accelerate closes, implement real-time reporting, and educate leadership teams on how every decision hits the cash cycle.  One of the best at articulating this reality is my guest, Bob Gold. Bob has been CFO at public companies, private firms, and multiple private equity-backed businesses.  What are the biggest financial challenges in private equity, and why are they so common? How can CEOs set their CFOs up for success?  In this episode, Bob and I break down what it really takes to succeed as a CFO in private equity, from managing cash and banking relationships to designing the right KPIs and building a team you can trust.   You'll also learn: Why the first 90 days of a CFO's tenure should be focused on cash and team assessment How extending customer terms or delaying closes can quietly destroy a business Why private equity's reluctance to invest in technology creates hidden risks The difference between “knowledge” and “intellect” and why holding onto knowledge can sink a finance team How great CFOs educate divisional leaders on the financial impact of their decisions Why operating on “two clocks” is the real PE playbook What it takes to build a true CEO–CFO partnership that drives both strategy and execution Guest Bio Bob Gold is a CFO, operating partner, transformation expert, treasury and turnarounds specialist. He is a leader and finance executive with a track record of matching execution with strategy to drive improved results in global organizations. Bob led three private equity portfolio companies through successful exits. His industry expertise includes Industrial B2B, Defense Government Contracting, Defense Electronics, and Consumer Products. Bob is a key “influencer” using fact-based data and superior communication skills to drive business and financial strategy. He's recognized for building highly responsive finance teams and leading process improvements supporting rapid growth and organizational change in complex international companies. As a CFO, Bob has transformed complacent finance organizations into business partners that are a sought-after resource and advisor to internal business partners. Connect with Bob on LinkedIn.    About Your Host Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker, and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years' experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women's Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.    Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you! 

In Episode 49 of F+L Webcast, Vicky Villena-Denton sat down with Henry Liu, vice president for Asia Pacific at Lubrizol Corporation, to discuss the company's latest white paper entitled "Envisioning Sustainable Growth for China's Automotive Lubricants Industry." The paper explores how electrification, intelligence and connectivity are reshaping the automotive sector, and the implications for lubricants and additives.Liu, who joined Lubrizol in 2023 after nearly three decades in the energy and chemical sectors, brings deep international experience with companies such as Honeywell, Johnson Matthey and ICI. He explained that while he is relatively new to the lubricant industry, his background in energy and technology provides valuable perspective on the profound shifts now underway in China's automotive landscape.China is driving forward with ambitious carbon neutrality goals, expanding electric vehicle infrastructure and setting stricter emissions policies. Unlike in Europe and the United States, where consumer resistance has slowed electrification, Chinese consumers are embracing the shift. Alternative fuels such as methanol and hydrogen are also gaining traction, supported by existing production capacity and government initiatives. These changes are pushing the lubricant industry away from general-purpose solutions towards “fit-for-purpose” products tailored to specific applications and energy systems.Liu emphasised the increasing importance of collaboration with OEMs, the rise of Chinese domestic standards and the growing need for regionalised product strategies. He also highlighted Lubrizol's localisation strategy in China, where around 700 employees—500 focused on additives—are developing products and services to meet local requirements.Looking ahead, Liu sees significant opportunities for lubricant companies in adjacent markets, such as protective films and liquid cooling for data centres, and stressed the importance of innovation not just in technology, but also in business models. Sustainability, he said, must be practical, delivering both environmental and economic value: “We shouldn't just wait for passive adaptation. The industry must take active leadership in this transition.”

Thomas Wasson sits down with Jim Connelly, Chief Revenue Officer of Bollinger Motors, to explore the company's recent rebrand following its consolidation with Mullen Automotive. They discuss Bollinger's pivot into the medium-duty EV market, the role of incentives like California's HVIP in fleet adoption, and the challenges of scaling infrastructure. Connelly also shares insights into Bollinger's upcoming B5 and B6 models, the move to a new production facility in Mississippi, and how startups can compete with legacy OEMs in the rapidly evolving commercial EV space. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

- Stellantis Shutdowns Spread to 6 More Plants - North American OEMs Cutting Overcapacity - Data Centers Use 10X Electricity of EVs - Nissan Gives Sentra a Refresh - Mercedes Deepens Ties with Chinese Tech Companies - Mercedes Replaces CTO - Ford Consolidates Sales Ops in China - China Writes Rules for Door Handles - Tariffs Not Helping U.S. Auto Industry

- Stellantis Shutdowns Spread to 6 More Plants - North American OEMs Cutting Overcapacity - Data Centers Use 10X Electricity of EVs - Nissan Gives Sentra a Refresh - Mercedes Deepens Ties with Chinese Tech Companies - Mercedes Replaces CTO - Ford Consolidates Sales Ops in China - China Writes Rules for Door Handles - Tariffs Not Helping U.S. Auto Industry

What cars should OEMs bring back to market? Is there a business case to be made? The guys explore one car from each manufacturer (A-M). They debate a fourth car for Sal in MN, who wants a sports car he doesn't have to think about. Then, EJ and his family in CA are feeling the neighborhood peer pressure to buy a minivan, but they'd rather have something else with 3 rows. Social media questions ask if there were any cars on the ToTD trip in hindsight the guys wish they could have driven or done a film on, which cars have the best interiors for sitting in traffic, and what cars are the best versions of unrelated cars? Audio-only MP3 is available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and 10 other platforms. Look for us on Tuesdays if you'd like to watch us debate, disagree and then go drive again! 00:00 - Intro 01:17 - Model Y Recall For Door Handles 04:49 - Nissan Closing Design Studios In U.S. & Brazil 13:44 - Topic Tuesday: Cars That Brands Should Bring Back (A-M) 16:41 - Paul's List Of Cars (A-M) 38:30 - Todd's List Of Cars (A-M) 1:07:53 - Hooked On Driving National Event Updates 1:09:33 - Car Debate #1: The Fourth Car 1:21:17 - Car Debate #2: Minivan Peer Pressure 1:31:03 - Audience Questions On Social Media Rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, and subscribe to our two YouTube channels. Write to us your Topic Tuesdays, Car Conclusions and those great Car Debates at everydaydrivertv@gmail.com or everydaydriver.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chuck Price, President, AI Kinetics joined Grayson Brulte on The Road to Autonomy podcast to discuss Bot Auto's successful 40-mile, fully autonomous run with no human in the cab or operating the vehicle remotely.In what Chuck Price calls a “watershed event,” Bot Auto successfully completed a driver-out run in under two years with less than $45 million in funding, compared to other competitors which are currently spending $600 million+ a year.Bot Auto's accomplishment could have broad implications for the autonomous trucking industry in terms of technological roadmaps and commercialization strategies. How they achieved this milestone with such limited resources will become a central question throughout the autonomy markets.Episode Chapters0:00 The Road to Autonomy Introduction0:23 Bot Auto Goes Driver-Out3:22 The Role of OEMs in an Autonomous Trucking World7:20 After Driver-Out, What's Next for Bot Auto?12:54 Building an Autonomous Trucking Business16:11 Rethinking the OEM Deal: When is the Right Time to Partner?19:43 Contract Manufacturing25:39 Ripple Effects of Bot Auto Going Driver-Out31:38 AI Unlock33:17 Proof Points37:50 Tesla Semi43:18 Current State of the Autonomous Trucking Industry45:51 Key TakeawayRecorded on Thursday, September 18, 2025--------About The Road to AutonomyThe Road to Autonomy provides market intelligence and strategic advisory services to institutional investors and companies, delivering insights needed to stay ahead of emerging trends in the autonomy economy™. To learn more, say hello (at) roadtoautonomy.com.Sign up for This Week in The Autonomy Economy newsletter: https://www.roadtoautonomy.com/ae/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

At the heart of The Prophets' vision are “The 24 Essential Supply Chain Processes.” What are they? Find out, and see the future yourself. Click here The automotive industry is famous for its tough negotiations—OEMs squeezing suppliers, suppliers passing the pressure down the line. For decades, that approach was seen as a strength. But what if it's actually holding the industry back?In this episode of the Auto Supply Chain Prophets Podcast, Jan Griffiths and co-host Terry Onica welcome Kate Vitasek, leading authority on collaborative business models and creator of the Vested framework. Kate has spent nearly 25 years proving that companies don't have to settle for win-lose deals. Instead, they can build partnerships where both sides succeed.Kate explains the mindset shift in simple terms. Negotiation means sitting across the table, each side fighting for its own interests. Collaboration means sitting on the same side, co-creating solutions.She describes how even the most toxic relationships can be reset with the right process: aligning on outcomes, establishing trust, and piloting a new way of working one relationship at a time.Data is another barrier. Too often, companies stall because they argue over whose numbers are right. Kate insists on one source of truth, even if it's a simple spreadsheet. Agreement matters more than sophistication. Once both sides trust the data, they can move forward together instead of wasting time in conflict.Jan presses on a key point: leadership may say the right things at the top, but when directives reach the buyer level, behaviors often revert to “beat up the supplier” mode. Kate acknowledges the challenge and stresses the need to equip frontline teams with new rules, incentives, and the authority to design better processes within clear guardrails.Toward the end, Kate offers a direct challenge to automotive leaders: don't send one person to learn the Vested model, send a team. Procurement, operations, and legal must be part of the process so contracts reflect collaboration instead of undoing it.The episode closes with a reminder that real change won't come from declarations or slogans. It will come from fixing one relationship at a time, with the right people in the room, the right metrics in place, and a mindset that values shared success over short-term wins.Themes discussed in this episode:Why the traditional adversarial style of automotive negotiations is breaking down supplier relationships and creating long-term riskHow OEM behavior sets the tone for the entire supply chain and directly influences tier one and tier two practicesThe Vested model as a proven framework for turning win-lose deals into win-win partnerships based on shared outcomesThe five rules of Vested contracts and why starting with one strategic relationship helps companies pilot change effectivelyCase studies from healthcare, defense, and retail that demonstrate the impact of collaborative contractingHow one source of truth in data eliminates arguments, builds trust, and enables transparent decision-making across companiesHow companies like IBM and Securitas redefined supplier agreements to create long-term strategic valueFeatured on this episode:Name: Kate VitasekTitle: Global Authority on Collaborative Business Models and Architect of the Vested MethodologyAbout: Kate Vitasek is a recognized authority on strategic partnerships and the creator of the

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1149: We're live outside of EV Auto in Brentwood. Today, we look at how automakers have relatively kept car prices normal despite rising tariffs. Plus, Waymo and Lyft are teaming up to bring autonomous rides to the streets of Music City.Automakers have kept price hikes at bay despite billions in tariff-related costs from the Trump-era trade war. But the pressure is building—and price increases may be just around the corner.Automakers like GM and Ford are absorbing up to $5 billion and $3 billion respectively in tariff-related costs.Despite this, MSRPs have remained relatively flat—up less than 1% between March and August, per Edmunds.Some costs are being quietly passed along via fees like delivery, which jumped 8.5% to $1,507.Analysts expect prices to gradually increase as tariffs stick, with focus shifting to more profitable models.Hyundai's Randy Parker: “Our priority remains ensuring that we're competitive through affordability.”Waymo has announced a new partnership with Lyft to launch a robotaxi service in Nashville, with public access planned for 2026. The collaboration reflects a growing trend in autonomous mobility partnerships.Testing of Waymo's all-electric, self-driving Jaguar I-Pace vehicles begins in the coming months.Lyft will manage fleet services via its Flexdrive subsidiary, including maintenance and depot operations.Riders will first access vehicles through the Waymo app, with Lyft integration to follow.The deal mirrors Waymo's arrangement with Uber but gives users more choice in how to hail rides.“We're excited to partner with Lyft again to bring our Waymo Driver to more people,” said Tekedra Mawakana, co-CEO of Waymo.Mental health is quickly becoming Gen Z's top priority, outpacing physical health and academics. Retailers are responding by centering campaigns around well-being, using purpose-driven strategies to build trust and authentically engage young consumers.PacSun's “Youth Report” found 42% of Gen Z consumers rank mental health as their top life priority.Lululemon's research showed 89% of those with “wellbeing burnout” cite loneliness, and many feel overwhelmed by mixed wellness advice.L.L.Bean and Mental Health America found 79% of respondents say outdoor time improves mental health.Dunnhumby data showed Gen Z prioritizes mental health more than any other generation.“We have a unique opportunity to engage...to help them prioritize mental health,” said American Eagle's Jennifer Foyle.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Original Release Date: August 21, 2025From China's rapid electric vehicle adoption to the rise of robotaxis, humanoids, and flying vehicles, our analysts Adam Jonas and Tim Hsiao discuss how AI is revolutionizing the global auto industry.Read more insights from Morgan Stanley.----- Transcript ----- Adam Jonas: Welcome to Thoughts on the Market. I'm Adam Jonas. I lead Morgan Stanley's Research Department's efforts on embodied AI and humanoid robots. Tim Hsiao: And I'm Tim Hsiao, Greater China Auto Analyst. Adam Jonas: Today – how the global auto industry is evolving from horsepower to brainpower with the help of AI. It's Thursday, August 21st at 9am in New York. Tim Hsiao: And 9pm in Hong Kong. Adam Jonas: From Detroit to Stuttgart to Shanghai, automakers are making big investments in AI. In fact, AI is the engine behind what we think will be a $200 billion self-driving vehicle market by 2030. Tim, you believe that nearly 30 percent of vehicles sold globally by 2030 will be equipped with Level 2+ smart driving features that can control steering, acceleration, braking, and even some hands-off driving. We expect China to account for 60 percent of these vehicles by 2030. What's driving this rapid adoption in China and how does it compare to the rest of the world? Tim Hsiao: China has the largest EV market globally, and the country's EV sales are not only making up over 50 percent of the new car sales locally in China but also accounting for over 50 percent of the global EV sales. As a result, the market is experiencing intense competition. And the car makers are keen to differentiate with the technological innovation, to which smart driving serve[s] as the most effective means. This together with the AI breakthrough enables China to aggressively roll out Level 2+ urban navigation on autopilot. In the meantime, Chinese government support, and cost competitive supply chains also helps. So, we are looking for China's the adoption of Level 2+ smart driving on passenger vehicle to reach 25 percent by end of this year, and 60 percent by 2030 versus 6 percent and 17 percent for the rest of the world during the same period. Adam Jonas: How is China balancing an aggressive rollout with safety and compliance, especially as it moves towards even greater vehicle automation going forward? Tim Hsiao: Right. That's a great and a relevant question because over the years, China has made significant strides in developing a comprehensive regulatory framework for autonomous vehicles. For example, China was already implementing its strategies for innovation and the development of autonomous vehicles in 2022 and had proved several auto OEM to roll out Level 3 pilot programs in 2023. Although China has been implementing stricter requirements since early this year; for example, banning terms like autonomous driving in advertisement and requiring stricter testing, we still believe more detailed industry standard and regulatory measures will facilitate development and adoption of Level 2+ Smart driving. And this is important to prevent, you know, the bad money from driving out goods. Adam Jonas: One way people might encounter this technology is through robotaxis. Now, robotaxis are gaining traction in China's major cities, as you've been reporting. What's the outlook for Level 4 adoption and how would this reshape urban mobility? Tim Hsiao: The size of Level 4+ robotaxi fleet stays small at the moment in China, with less than 1 percent penetration rate. But we've started seeing accelerating roll out of robotaxi operation in major cities since early this year. So, by 2030, we are looking for Level 4+ robotaxis to account for 8 percent of China's total taxi and ride sharing fleet size by 2030. So, this adoption is facilitated by robust regulatory frameworks, including designated test zones and the clear safety guidance. We believe the proliferation of a Level 4 robotaxi will eventually reshape the urban mobility by meaningfully reducing transportation costs, alleviating traffic congestion through optimized routing and potentially reducing accidents. So, Adam, that's the outlook for China. But looking at the global trends beyond China, what are the biggest global revenue opportunities in your view? Is that going to be hardware, software, or something else? Adam Jonas: We are entering a new scientific era where the AI world, the software world is coming into far greater mental contact, and physical contact, with the hardware world and the physical world of manufacturing. And it's being driven by corporate rivalry amongst not just the terra cap, you know, super large cap companies, but also between public and private companies and competition. And then it's being also fueled by geopolitical rivalry and social issues as well, on a global scale. So, we're actually creating an entirely new species. This robotic species that yes, is expressed in many ways on our roads in China and globally – but it's just the beginning. In terms of whether it's hardware, software, or something else – it's all the above. What we've done with a across 40 sectors at Morgan Stanley is to divide the robot, whether it flies, drives, walks, crawls, whatever – we divide it into the brain and the body. And the brain can be divided into sensors and memory and compute and foundational models and simulation. The body can be broken up into actuators, the kind of motor neuron capability, the connective tissue, the batteries. And then there's integrators, that kind of do it all – the hardware, the software, the integration, the training, the data, the compute, the energy, the infrastructure. And so, what's so exciting about this opportunity for our clients is there's no one way to do it. There's no one region to do it. So, stick with us folks. There's a lot of – not just revenue opportunities – but alpha-generating opportunities as well. Tim Hsiao: We are seeing OEMs pivot from cars to humanoids and the electric vertical takeoff in the landing vehicles or EVOTL. Our listeners may have seen videos of these vehicles, which are like helicopters and are designed for urban air mobility. How realistic is this transition and what's the timeline for commercialization in your view? Adam Jonas: Anything that can be electrified will be electrified. Anything that can be automated will be automated. And the advancement of the state of the art in robotaxis and Level 2, Level 3, Level 4+ autonomy is directly transferrable to aviation. There's obviously different regulatory and safety aspects of aviation, the air traffic control and the FAA and the equivalent regulatory bodies in Europe and in China that we will have to navigate, pun intended. But we will get there. We will get there ultimately because taking these technologies of automation and electronic and software defined technology into the low altitude economy will be a superior experience and a vastly cheaper experience. Point to point, on a per person, per passenger, per ton, per mile basis. So the Wright brothers can finally get excited that their invention from 1903, quite a long time ago, could finally, really change how humans live and move around the surface of the earth; even beyond, few tens of thousands of commercial and private aircraft that exist today. Tim Hsiao: The other key questions or key focus for investors is about the business model. So, until now, the auto industry has centered on the car ownership model. But with this new technology, we've been hearing a new model, as you just mentioned, the shared mobility and the autonomous driving fleet. Experts say it could be major disruptor in this sector. So, what's your take on how this will evolve in developed and emerging markets? Adam Jonas: Well, we think when you take autonomous and shared and electric mobility all the way – that transportation starts to resemble a utility like electricity or water or telecom; where the incremental mile traveled is maybe not quite free, but very, very, very low cost. Maybe only; the marginal cost of the mile traveled may only just be the energy required to deliver that mile, whether it's a renewable or non-renewable energy source. And the relationship with a car will change a lot. Individual vehicle ownership may go the way of horse ownership. There will be some, but it'll be seen as a nostalgic privilege, if you will, to own our own car. Others would say, I don't want to own my own car. This is crazy. Why would anyone want to do that? So, it's going to really transform the business model. It will, I think, change the structure of the industry in terms of the number of participants and what they do. Not everybody will win. Some of the existing players can win. But they might have to make some uncomfortable trade-offs for survival. And for others, the car – let's say terrestrial vehicle modality may just be a small part of a broader robotics and then physical embodiment of AI that they're propagating; where auto will just be a really, really just one tendril of many, many dozens of different tendrils. So again, it's beginning now. This process will take decades to play out. But investors with even, you know, two-to-three or three-to-five-year view can take steps today to adjust their portfolios and position themselves. Tim Hsiao: The other key focus of the investor over the market would definitely be the geopolitical dynamics. So, Morgan Stanley expects to see a lot of what you call coopetition between global OEMs and the Chinese suppliers. What do you mean by coopetition and how do you see this dynamic playing out, especially in terms of the tech deflation? Adam Jonas: In order to reduce the United States dependency on China, we need to work with China. So, there's the irony here. Look, in my former life of being an auto analyst, every auto CEO I speak to does not believe that tariffs will limit Chinese involvement in the global auto industry, including onshore in the United States. Many are actively seeking to work with the Chinese through various structures to give them an on-ramp to move onshore to produce their, in many cases, superior products, but in U.S. factories on U.S. shores with American workers. That might lead to some, again, trade-offs. But our view within Morgan Stanley and working with you is we do think that there are on-ramps for Chinese hardware, Chinese knowhow, and Chinese electrical vehicle architecture, but while still being sensitive to the dual-purpose AI sensitivities around software and the AI networks that, for national security reasons, nations want to have more control over. And I actually am hopeful and seeing some signs already that that's going to happen and play out over the next six to 12 months. Tim Hsiao: I would say it's clear that the road ahead isn't just smarter; it's faster, more connected, and increasingly autonomous. Adam Jonas: That's correct, Tim. I could not agree more. Thanks for joining me on the show today. Tim Hsiao: Thanks, Adam. Always a pleasure. Adam Jonas: And to our listeners, thanks for listening. Until next time, stay human and keep driving forward. If you enjoy Thoughts on the Market, please leave us a review wherever you listen and share the podcast with a friend or colleague today.

In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, we sit down with Jay Vijayan, visionary founder and CEO of Tekion, to explore his transformative journey from Tesla's CIO to creating one of the most disruptive companies in automotive retail. Jay shares the bold leap of leaving a high-level role at Tesla to tackle decades-old dealership technology challenges, and how his purpose-driven vision sparked the creation of Tekion's cloud-native platform. From buying dealerships to build a “live lab,” to navigating COVID with innovation that reshaped digital retailing, Jay takes us inside the risks, setbacks, and breakthroughs that fueled Tekion's rise. We also dive into the importance of solving root problems—not surface-level fixes—how dealers and OEMs can collaborate to deliver seamless consumer experiences, and why AI, machine learning, and ecosystem partnerships are no longer optional but essential to the future of automotive. If you've ever wondered what it takes to disrupt legacy systems, win over skeptics, and build a company that redefines an industry, this conversation will inspire you to think bigger and act bolder. Tekion launched Tekion AI Agent for Service this year. You can learn more about it in this video.https://tekion.com/resources/tekion-ai-agents-service= Also, here is a link to our testimonials page which includes some really great dealer customer accounts and stories. https://tekion.com/testimonials Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1147: Today we're covering a first-of-its-kind Stellantis store acquisition backed by Ellenae Fairhurst's trust, a new AI tool that negotiates car deals for shoppers, and the latest U.S.-China framework over TikTokThe late Ellenae Fairhurst's legacy lives on as a Stellantis store in Virginia has new owners, in a new approach to dealership ownership.Fairhurst Automotive, backed by the Ellenae Fairhurst Entrepreneurial Trust, acquired and rebranded the South Richmond CDJR store.Ellenae Fairhurst was the first Black woman to own Infiniti and Lexus stores in the US and her trust, formed in 2024, funds and mentors first-time Black dealers with a path to majority ownership and wealth creation.New co-owners Ken Banks and Chris Justice navigated regulatory hurdles and surprise costs, including a $50,000 business license and $40,000 in IT upgrades.Adviser Stuart McCallum and the team at Biltmore Automotive guided the operators through everything from DMS installation to state licensing.“They took two people who knew nothing about ownership… and just walked us through it,” said co-owner Chris Justice.Many customers dread negotiating a car price, so CarEdge thinks AI should do it for you. The startup's new “AI Negotiator” lets customers pay $40 to have an AI agent haggle with dealers on their behalf.CarEdge launched its AI Negotiator app in July; over 2,000 customers have already paid to try it.Users set a target price, and the AI contacts dealers directly via email and text — without revealing it's not a human.The system tracks 150+ data points per interaction, building a database of doc fees and add-ons nationwide.Founder Zach Shefska says dealers and OEMs are already taking notice, calling CarEdge “the tip of the spear.”“There's still going to be people that walk up to the dealership [to negotiate], but there's a percentage of sales that can happen without the incumbent cost infrastructure, and everyone can win. That's what I'm passionate about,” Shefska said.The U.S. and China have struck a framework deal over TikTok's ownership, potentially shifting control from ByteDance to a U.S. company.Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed the framework during trade talks in Madrid; Trump and Xi are expected to discuss final details Friday.The deal addresses U.S. demands for local control of user data and oversight of TikTok's proprietary algorithm.China insists it won't compromise on principles or allow “politicization” of technology and trade.Broader issues remain unresolved, including fentanyl chemical exports, sanctions on Chinese firms, and new U.S. export controls.Join Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Qasar Younis, CEO and Peter Ludwig, CTO, Co-Founders of Applied Intuition joined Grayson Brulte on The Road to Autonomy podcast to discuss why Applied Intuition continues to be one of the most interesting companies in autonomy.The conversation explores Applied Intuition's growing portfolio of partnerships, including a major deal with Komatsu and the launch of their new SDS (self-driving system for automotive). Qasar and Peter share how first-principles thinking, diversification across verticals, and a relentless focus on engineering have allowed the company to expand while continually de-risking the business.As OEMs weigh the long-running build-versus-buy debate around autonomous driving systems, China's automakers are rapidly advancing their capabilities with a strong emphasis on in-vehicle software. From Tesla's software-driven model to legacy OEMs navigating the transition to software-defined vehicles, this episode of The Road to Autonomy highlights how Applied Intuition's Vehicle OS and SDS offerings are designed to meet automakers where they are today, while positioning them for what's next.In a future where software increasingly defines brand and customer experience, Applied Intuition is building the infrastructure that will power both vehicles and autonomy. Episode Chapters0:00 What's Next for Applied Intuition? 1:44 Self-Driving for Automotive (SDS)7:15 Managing Risks12:45 Komatsu Partnership16:32 Breakthrough Technology 21:38 Vehicle OS23:48 OpenAI Partnership25:05 L2/L2+ Demand32:42 Licensing Autonomous Driving Systems35:18 Maintaining SDS42:50 Cadillac44:09 Does Software Defines a Brand? 46:10 Planning for Automotive Software 49:29 What's NextRecorded on Friday, September 5, 2025--------About The Road to AutonomyThe Road to Autonomy provides market intelligence and strategic advisory services to institutional investors and companies, delivering insights needed to stay ahead of emerging trends in the autonomy economy™. To learn more, say hello (at) roadtoautonomy.com.Sign up for This Week in The Autonomy Economy newsletter: https://www.roadtoautonomy.com/ae/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As artificial intelligence (AI) reshapes the data center landscape, power resiliency is being tested like never before. With enormous new facilities coming online and operators exploring alternatives to diesel, the backup power market is at an inflection point. In this episode of the Data Center Frontier Show, we sit down with Ricardo Navarro, Vice President of Global Solutions at Generac Power Systems, to discuss how the company is positioning itself as a major player in the data center ecosystem. Diesel Still Reigns — For Now Navarro begins by addressing the foundational question: why diesel remains the primary backup power choice for hyperscale and AI workloads. The answer, he explains, comes down to density, responsiveness, and reliability. Diesel engines respond instantly to the fluctuating loads that are common in AI training clusters, and fuel can be stored directly on-site. While natural gas is gaining traction as a bridging and utility-support solution, true redundancy requires dual pipelines — a level of infrastructure not yet common in data center deployments. That said, Navarro is clear that the story doesn't end with diesel. He sees a future where natural gas, paired with batteries, becomes a cost-effective and environmentally attractive option. Hybrid systems, combined with demand response and grid participation programs, could give operators new tools for balancing reliability and sustainability. “Natural gas might not be the right solution right now, but definitely it will be in the future,” Navarro notes. Scaling Fast to Meet Hyperscaler Demands The conversation also explores how hyperscalers are shaping requirements. With campuses needing hundreds of generators, customers are asking not just about product performance, but about scale, lead times, and support. Generac is addressing that demand by delivering open sets in as little as 30 to 35 weeks — about a third of the wait time from traditional OEMs. That speed-to-deployment advantage has driven significant new interest in Generac across the hyperscale sector. From Generators to Energy Technology Equally important is Generac's shift toward digital tools and predictive services. Over the past decade, the company has invested in acquisitions such as Deep Sea Electronics, Blue Pillar, and Off Grid Energy, expanding its expertise in controls, telemetry, and microgrid integration. Today, Generac is layering advanced sensors, machine learning, and AI-driven analytics onto its equipment fleet, enabling predictive failure detection, condition-based maintenance, and smarter load orchestration. This evolution, Navarro explains, represents Generac's transformation “from being just a generator manufacturer to being an energy technology company.” What's Next for Generac Looking ahead, the company is putting real capital behind its ambitions. Generac recently completed a $130 million facility in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, designed to expand production capacity and meet surging demand from data center customers. With firm domestic and international orders already in place, Navarro says the company is determined “to be in the driver's seat” as AI accelerates the need for scalable, resilient, and flexible backup power. For data center leaders, this episode provides a clear look into how backup power strategies are evolving — and how one of the industry's largest players is preparing for the next wave of energy and infrastructure challenges.  

Wie verändert sich die Automobilindustrie – und was bedeutet das für die Zulieferer? In dieser Folge spricht Jörg Astalosch, CEO des Entwicklungsdienstleisters IAV, mit uns über die großen Transformationsthemen der Branche: von Software Defined Vehicle über die Herausforderungen globaler Wertschöpfung bis hin zu Batterietechnologien und neuen Antriebskonzepten. Wir diskutieren, wie sich Zulieferer zwischen OEMs, Regulierung und internationalem Wettbewerb behaupten müssen – und warum die Autoindustrie trotz aller Risiken gute Chancen hat, die Zukunft aktiv mitzugestalten.

Dillon Moore of Colorado Motorcycle Adventure joins us to talk about taking over the family business, growing CMA into North America's premier rental and tour outfit, and creating unforgettable riding experiences. We dive into CMA's rapid growth, partnerships with OEMs and dealers, innovative marketing strategies, and the camaraderie that keeps riders coming back. Plus, hear about their upcoming Utah tour!

- Chinese Automakers Flock to Munich Show - Opel Shows Performance Mokka EV - Renault Launches All-New Clio - Cupra Says Tindaya Concept Will Become Reality - Skoda Pulls Wraps Off New Station Wagon Concept - Hyundai Reveals 1st Compact EV - VW to Invest €1 Billion in AI To Save €4 Billion - Mercedes Does 1,200 Km Test with Solid-State Batteries - Ducati Puts Solid-State Batteries in a Motorcycle - New Maverick and Transit Connect to Share Plant - EVs Will Hit 50% Share in the U.S. by 2039

- Chinese Automakers Flock to Munich Show - Opel Shows Performance Mokka EV - Renault Launches All-New Clio - Cupra Says Tindaya Concept Will Become Reality - Skoda Pulls Wraps Off New Station Wagon Concept - Hyundai Reveals 1st Compact EV - VW to Invest €1 Billion in AI To Save €4 Billion - Mercedes Does 1,200 Km Test with Solid-State Batteries - Ducati Puts Solid-State Batteries in a Motorcycle - New Maverick and Transit Connect to Share Plant - EVs Will Hit 50% Share in the U.S. by 2039

Rimac Technology introduced new solid-state battery systems, advanced e-axles, and centralized electronic control units at IAA Mobility. The company partnered with ProLogium and Mitsubishi Chemical Group for battery development and showcased hybrid battery platforms with flexible configurations. Rimac presented the SINTEG 300 and 550 eAxles, offering high power and torque density, and announced the High Torque XXL Axle for series production in 2026. The new electronics feature domain and zonal ECUs powered by NXP processors, enabling centralized vehicle architectures. All technologies will be produced at Rimac's facilities in Croatia, supporting high-volume manufacturing for global automotive OEMs.Learn more on this news by visiting us at: https://greyjournal.net/news/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At the heart of The Prophets' vision are “The 24 Essential Supply Chain Processes.” What are they? Find out, and see the future yourself. Click here The pace of change in automotive supply chains isn't slowing down, and waiting for OEM direction is no longer an option. Regulations, tariffs, sustainability requirements, and labor laws are reshaping the way suppliers operate, and the companies that act first are the ones that stay ahead. That's where AIAG comes in. In this episode, Tanya Bolden, VP of Supply Chain and Corporate Responsibility, walks through how her team is tackling the issues keeping suppliers up at night.She starts with tariffs, a constant pressure point. AIAG is working with members to create common reporting templates that reduce confusion and repeated requests up and down the chain. From there, the conversation moves to the Forced Labor Due Diligence Program, where six major OEMs are aligned. Tanya explains how global legislation drives the need for complete visibility, and what happens if companies fail to comply—such as seized shipments at the border, missed deadlines, and increased costs that ripple throughout the entire supply chain.Sustainability is another focus. AIAG is expanding IMDS to include carbon footprint reporting at the part level, tying compliance to the lean principles already familiar to the industry. Tanya also highlights AIAG's role as the North American hub for Catena-X, giving suppliers new tools to connect and share data faster across tiers.Training remains central too. With seasoned professionals retiring and new people entering the industry, AIAG offers over 50 programs to keep knowledge flowing and prepare the workforce for today's challenges.Tanya wraps up with a look at AIAG's upcoming events and one reminder to every supply chain leader: Don't try to take this on alone. Collaboration among OEMs, suppliers, and associations makes the industry stronger and better prepared for the future.Themes discussed in this episode:The growing pressure on suppliers to act proactively instead of waiting for OEM directionHow AIAG is streamlining tariff reporting with standardized templates across the supply chainWhy the Forced Labor Due Diligence Program demands complete supply chain visibility to raw materialsHow six global OEMs are working with AIAG to align on compliance and industry standardsThe role of Catena-X in boosting supply chain connectivity, transparency, and data sharingHow lean manufacturing principles support sustainability goals and help reduce carbon emissionsThe value of AIAG training programs in transferring knowledge and preparing the next generation of supply chain leadersHow AIAG events and industry collaboration help suppliers adapt to new regulations and global requirementsFeatured on this episode:Name: Tanya BoldenTitle: Vice President of Supply Chain and Corporate Responsibility at Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG)About: Tanya Bolden is Vice President of Supply Chain and Corporate Responsibility at AIAG, where she leads initiatives that connect sustainability, compliance, and collaboration across the automotive industry. With more than 30 years of experience, she brings deep expertise in corporate responsibility, sustainability, community relations, and supply chain management.Her work focuses on the issues that matter most today — from environmental stewardship and sustainability to global forced labor compliance and supply chain transparency. She is well-versed in navigating regulations...

In this episode of The Muscle Car Place, Rick takes us inside the impossible yet fascinating world of OEM leadership—where shifting politics and billion-dollar bets make or break the future of the industry. Then, in true “Rick's Take” fashion, he shifts gears to the fun side: which '90s icons and classic rides make the best tailgate companions—and the smartest flips for ROI. From Corvettes and Cobras to Broncos and Foxbody Mustangs, Rick breaks down which cars will impress your buddies, hold value, and maybe even make you money after football season. The post TMCP #619: Ask Rick — OEMs, Politics, and Profits; Plus Cars You Can Flip for Fun (and $$) at Football Tailgates first appeared on The Muscle Car Place.

In Episode 218 of China EVs & More, Tu Le and Lei Xing break down one of the most heated summers yet in China's EV world — a season of price wars, social media battles, and momentum shifts.We cover:⚔️ Onvo L90 vs. Li Auto i8 rivalry – aggressive pricing, messy launches, and social media smear campaigns.

In this episode, Dr. Yuanyuan “Martin” Ding, shares his journey from working at leading aerospace companies to launching his own startup focused on developing an Autonomous Flight System (AFS) designed to boost safety, efficiency, and scalability in the low-altitude economy. The conversation discusses how Albatross.ai is tackling challenges around AI integration, sensor fusion, and real-time decision-making, as well as its collaborations with OEMs, operators, and regulators. Martin also reflects on the regulatory landscape in China, the global path toward aviation autonomy, and the opportunities AI can unlock for Advanced Air Mobility. Hear Martin's entrepreneurial insights, the milestones Albatross.ai is targeting and his vision for how autonomy could reshape everyday transport in the next decade.

In the defense industrial base, everyone knows the primes dominate the big programs, but that leaves a huge gap in the middle.  Startups don't scale, the primes can't move fast, and decades of consolidation have hollowed out the space in between. For years, everyone has recognized this gap, but no one has really solved it. The primes are getting bigger, the small innovators get attention but struggle to scale, and the middle tier keeps shrinking.  Meanwhile, the need for companies that can deliver speed, value, and scale has only grown more urgent. That's starting to change. A new class of “next-gen primes” is emerging, companies that can think like small disruptors but deliver like established contractors. They're leaner, faster, and built for the kind of problems the bigs won't touch. One of the leaders of this movement is John Albers, retired Marine Colonel and now CEO of Albers Aerospace. After diving into entrepreneurship, he became a voracious student of business and started building what he calls a next-gen prime.  In less than a decade, he's grown Albers Aerospace into a nine-site operation by combining organic growth, acquisitions, and a relentless focus on lean execution and leadership development. In this episode, John shares how Albers Aerospace is reshaping the defense industrial base, what it really takes to scale in this space, and why leadership culture, not technology alone, drives speed and impact.   You'll also learn: How Albers Aerospace scaled from a one-man shop to 9 sites through a mix of organic growth and acquisitions Why humility and getting your “rear end kicked” is often the most important leadership lesson How over-consolidation at the top has created a roll-up opportunity for mid-tier defense companies Why financial literacy and leadership training are as important as operations in a fast-growing business Why speed, lean execution, and value, not allowable costs, win contracts in today's environment How John thinks about building impact for the warfighter and the industrial base, not just chasing dollars   Guest Bio John Albers is the founder and CEO of Albers Aerospace, a Dallas-area defense and aerospace company organized into three business units. Since its founding in 2015, Albers Aerospace has grown rapidly through acquisitions and organic expansion, delivering innovative products and services to today's warfighter. A retired U.S. Marine Corps Colonel with 24 years of active duty, John served as a fleet pilot, flight instructor, and developmental test pilot. As an entrepreneur and senior executive, John brings more than 35 years of leadership and operational experience across defense acquisition and private industry. He thrives in fast-paced environments, excels at building and aligning teams, and is deeply committed to developing people while driving organizational growth. Visit https://www.albers.aero/ and connect with John on LinkedIn.    About Your Host Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers, and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years' experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women's Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.    Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you! 

WWJ auto analyst John McElroy reports the CEO of a new Chinese automaker says they have entered the "knockout" round and only five companies will survive.

Nicholas Gaudern, CTO of Denmark-based Power Curve, discusses how advanced blade scanning, aerodynamic upgrades, and the AeroVista tool are transforming wind turbine performance analysis. PowerCurve helps operators use real data to maximize AEP and make smarter decisions about blade maintenance and upgrades. Sign up now for Uptime Tech News, our weekly email update on all things wind technology. This episode is sponsored by Weather Guard Lightning Tech. Learn more about Weather Guard's StrikeTape Wind Turbine LPS retrofit. Follow the show on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Linkedin and visit Weather Guard on the web. And subscribe to Rosemary Barnes' YouTube channel here. Have a question we can answer on the show? Email us! Allen Hall: Nicholas, welcome back to the podcast. Hi. Thanks Allen. Good to see you again. There's a lot going on in wind right now. Obviously the elections that happy the United States are changing the way that a lot of US based operators are thinking about their turbines and, and particularly their blades. I've noticed over the last, even just couple of weeks that. Operators and the engineers are paying more attention to what they're actually getting on site. Nicholas Gaudern: Yes. Allen Hall: Instead of, uh, the sort of the full service agreement where, hey, they're under warranty for two years, I don't really need to do anything for a little while approach. That's changing into, I want to know what arrives on site, what am I getting and what problems are there with these particular blades that I may not know about because they're new to me. Even though these blades, there may be thousands of these blades out in service. Mm-hmm. Me, my company doesn't know. Yep. How they operate. How they perform, particularly at this, this new site, I'm Repowering or, [00:01:00] or building new. That is a complete shift. From where it was a year ago, two years ago, five years ago. Yeah. And I think the biggest performance piece that people are looking at is aerodynamics, and I'm trying to understand how these blades perform, how they move. Yes. What kind of loads there are, what kind I expect over the next year or two. And I think they're just becoming now aware of maybe I need to have a game plan. Nicholas Gaudern: Mm-hmm. Allen Hall: And I, and that's where power curve comes in, is like in the sense of have a king plan. Understand what these plates are all about. Yeah, yeah. And try to characterize 'em early rather than later. Nicholas Gaudern: Yeah, exactly. I think there's been an increased focus on, on data and for operators, as you say, to understand more what they're getting and not necessarily relying on just what they're told. So, uh, I think a nice case study of that is last year we were helping a customer to build a, a digital twin. Uh, of one of their turbine models that they, that they purchased. So what that involved [00:02:00] is, uh, going to site, doing a laser scan of a blade, understanding geometry, helping them to build up some aerodynamic and structural models of that blade. So then that customer was going to build an AEL model themselves of that turbine so that they could run load calculations. They could look at, uh, site specific, uh, changes that could be relevant to that turbine's configuration or how they operated it. And this isn't really something that you saw a lot of, uh, a few years ago, but I think it's great that operators, particularly when they have a larger engineering capacity, are starting to get into that game. Uh, and it's tough because it's a lot of what the OEMs do, it's their kind of specialist knowledge, but there's a lot of smart people out there. Uh, there's a lot of companies you can work with to help gather that data and build these products up. Allen Hall: The OEMs right now are. Lowering the number of engineers. Nicholas Gaudern: Mm-hmm. Allen Hall: Staff reductions. Yeah. Uh,

In this episode of Manufacturing Hub, Vlad and Dave take a deep dive into one of the most critical yet often overlooked aspects of modern manufacturing: network and systems architecture. Too often manufacturers focus on SCADA, MES, and control layers without recognizing that the architecture beneath them is the foundation that determines whether a facility can scale, connect new equipment, and maintain reliability. Architecture touches everything from plant floor PLCs and HMIs to edge devices, managed switches, firewalls, historians, and enterprise-level systems.We begin the conversation by unpacking what “architecture” actually means in manufacturing environments. Is it the hardware, switches, and cables? Is it the way new machines are integrated into existing plants? Or is it the broader strategy of ensuring that data, safety, and scalability are protected? The answer, as both Vlad and Dave explain, is that it is all of these at once.Throughout the discussion, we explore real-world stories where poor architectural decisions led to unplanned downtime, cybersecurity risks, or expensive rework. Vlad shares an example of a palletizer brought online with unmanaged switches and insecure remote access hardware that nearly crippled production until it was properly segmented. Dave recalls his own field experiences, including unusual setups where integrators resorted to improvised remote troubleshooting, highlighting just how creative but fragile some solutions can be.The episode also looks at the evolution of remote access. From the early days of Ewon boxes to modern expectations of secure VPNs, jump boxes, and approved engineering workstations, we discuss what role remote connectivity should play in today's manufacturing environment. While these solutions can reduce travel time and speed up support, they can just as easily introduce vulnerabilities and trust issues if not carefully managed.From there we move into the technical tradeoffs of device level ring versus star topologies. Vlad explains why he often prefers device level ring to save costs and simplify troubleshooting, while Dave weighs in on the importance of pre-molded cables, managed switches, and long-term maintainability. We also analyze example architectures from Rockwell white papers, pointing out where diagrams align with field best practices and where they differ from what engineers often see in real facilities.Finally, we broaden the perspective by comparing greenfield and brownfield deployments. Greenfield projects allow prime contractors and consultants to design standards up front, but most facilities live in brownfield reality where years of technical debt, unmanaged switches, and ad hoc networks make improvements harder. We also touch on how architecture differs by industry, whether in food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, oil and gas, or distributed environments such as trains or pipelines.The conversation closes with predictions, career advice, and resource recommendations. Vlad stresses that CCNA is still one of the best starting points for engineers who want to understand industrial networking fundamentals, and Dave emphasizes the importance of asking the right questions and learning from experienced peers. Both agree that demand for data, combined with the rise of AI, will continue to stress legacy networks until companies recognize the need for robust, standards-driven architectures.If you work in automation, engineering, IT, or plant management, this episode will give you perspective on why network architecture is not just a technical afterthought but a strategic enabler of digital transformation.Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and community updates 02:30 Defining architecture in manufacturing 05:00 Why networks are the backbone of manufacturing systems 08:00 A real-world palletizer story and the risks of unmanaged switches 14:00 The rise and pitfalls of remote access devices 18:30 Field story of unconventional remote troubleshooting setups 23:00 Who is responsible for network design: end users, integrators, or OEMs 28:00 Analyzing Rockwell's reference architecture diagrams 36:00 Device level ring versus star topologies in practice 49:00 Brownfield versus greenfield considerations 56:00 Industry-specific architectures from food and beverage to oil and gas 01:04:00 The role of standards and corporate versus local decision making 01:08:30 Predictions, career advice, and recommended resourcesReferences Mentioned in this Episode Ignition Community Conference: https://icc.inductiveautomation.com/ Siemens SPS Atlanta Event: https://new.siemens.com/us/en/company/fairs-events/sps.html Rockwell Automation Architectures and Design White Papers: https://literature.rockwellautomation.com CISSP Official Study Guide: https://www.isc2.org/Certifications/CISSP Winning by Tim Grover: https://www.amazon.com/Winning-Unforgiving-Race-Greatness/dp/1982168862 Cisco CCNA Certification: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/training-events/training-certifications/exams/current-list/ccna.htmlAbout the HostsVlad Romanov is an electrical engineer and consultant with over a decade of experience in manufacturing and industrial automation. His background spans global companies such as Procter & Gamble, Kraft Heinz, and Post Holdings, where he has led modernization projects, SCADA and MES deployments, and digital transformation initiatives. He is the founder of Joltek, a consulting firm helping manufacturers align people, process, and technology to improve operations, and he also leads SolisPLC, an education platform for automation professionals. Connect with Vlad on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vladromanovDave Griffith is a manufacturing consultant and co-host of Manufacturing Hub. With extensive experience in controls, systems integration, and business development, Dave has helped manufacturers across industries adopt SCADA, MES, and digital transformation solutions. He frequently shares insights on IT-OT convergence, operational strategy, and leadership in the automation space. Connect with Dave on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davegriffithJoltek is a consulting and integration firm that helps manufacturers modernize with clarity, strategy, and execution. Built on decades of hands-on experience in engineering, automation, and plant leadership, Joltek bridges the gap between technical complexity and business value. The team is known for uncovering hidden risks in outdated systems, designing scalable IT and OT architectures, and guiding digital transformation initiatives that actually deliver measurable results. Whether it is upgrading control systems, deploying SCADA and MES platforms, or advising on strategic investments, Joltek consistently brings deep expertise and practical solutions that make manufacturing operations more resilient, efficient, and future ready.Listen and Subscribe Catch every episode of Manufacturing Hub on YouTube and your favorite podcast platforms. Subscribe to stay up to date with weekly conversations on automation, digital transformation, and the future of manufacturing.

In aerospace and defense, every breakthrough is built on material science. From the alloys powering jet engines to the composites shielding spacecraft, innovation isn't just about design—it's about what the machines are made of.  Yet the way we discover and scale new materials hasn't meaningfully changed in more than a century. Research cycles drag on for decades, costs skyrocket, and supply chains remain fragile.  Meanwhile, other nations have poured resources into material science—developing advanced alloys, stockpiling rare earths, and in many ways, weaponizing the periodic table. That leaves the U.S. and its allies with a hard question: how do you compete with adversaries accelerating discovery while you're trapped in outdated cycles? The future of hypersonics, space defense, and even energy security depends on faster, smarter breakthroughs in material science. That's where Joe Krause and Radical AI come in. The New York–based startup is combining AI, autonomy, and materials expertise to compress R&D timelines from years to weeks—and slash costs along the way. In this episode, Joe shares how a cold call to a VC led to the founding of Radical AI, why aerospace innovation is fundamentally a materials problem, and what's at stake in a world where control of supply chains may decide the balance of power. You'll learn: How Radical AI's “materials flywheel” is redefining discovery and deployment Why rare earths and advanced alloys are now a geopolitical flashpoint What it takes to build a deep-tech culture driven by speed and mission Joe's journey from PhD researcher to founder—and how it could reshape the future of defense and space   Guest Bio Joe Krause is the co-founder and CEO of Radical AI. Radical AI is reinventing the way materials science is done and designing new materials for the world's needs. Harnessing the most advanced AI discovery engine and full-scale laboratory automation, they're pioneering a bold new era of innovation, accelerating the development of materials that transform human development. Radical AI is made up of a world-class group of materials scientists, physicists, engineers, and entrepreneurs. Visit https://www.radical-ai.com/, email joseph@radical-ai.com, or connect with him on LinkedIn.    About Your Host Craig Picken is an Executive Recruiter, writer, speaker and ICF Trained Executive Coach. He is focused on recruiting senior-level leadership, sales, and operations executives in the aviation and aerospace industry. His clients include premier OEMs, aircraft operators, leasing/financial organizations, and Maintenance/Repair/Overhaul (MRO) providers and since 2008, he has personally concluded more than 400 executive-level searches in a variety of disciplines. Craig is the ONLY industry executive recruiter who has professionally flown airplanes, sold airplanes, and successfully run a P&L in the aviation industry. His professional career started with a passion for airplanes. After eight years' experience as a decorated Naval Flight Officer – with more than 100 combat missions, 2,000 hours of flight time, and 325 aircraft carrier landings – Craig sought challenges in business aviation, where he spent more than 7 years in sales with both Gulfstream Aircraft and Bombardier Business Aircraft. Craig is also a sought-after industry speaker who has presented at Corporate Jet Investor, International Aviation Women's Association, and SOCAL Aviation Association.    Check out this episode on our website, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify, and don't forget to leave a review if you like what you heard. Your review feeds the algorithm so our show reaches more people. Thank you! 

Tony and Ryan discuss regulatory updates, the importance of vendor partnerships, a sensationalized incident involving a Texas school bus, and this year's Garage Stars. Charles Chilton, vice president and general manager of IC Bus, discusses his engineering and school bus driver background, navigating the uncertain clean bus market, and supporting IC Bus customers. Read more about OEMs. Episode sponsors: Transfinder, IC Bus.

Thomas Wasson breaks down the top stories in freight, including the Trump administration's sudden pause on work visas for foreign truck drivers and what it means for the industry. It's also an “autonomous trucks” edition, featuring in-depth conversations with Shahrukh Kazmi, Chief Product Officer at Volvo Autonomous Solutions, on their new VNL autonomous trucks running freight in Texas, and Shawn Kerrigan, COO of Plus, on their path to commercial launch and partnerships with global OEMs. From labor disruptions to driverless tech, this episode dives into the challenges and opportunities shaping trucking's future. ⁠Watch on YouTube⁠ ⁠Visit our sponsor⁠ ⁠Subscribe to the WTT newsletter⁠ ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ ⁠Spotify⁠ ⁠More FreightWaves Podcasts⁠ #WHATTHETRUCK #FreightNews #supplychain Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From China's rapid electric vehicle adoption to the rise of robotaxis, humanoids, and flying vehicles, our analysts Adam Jonas and Tim Hsiao discuss how AI is revolutionizing the global auto industry.Read more insights from Morgan Stanley.----- Transcript -----Adam Jonas: Welcome to Thoughts on the Market. I'm Adam Jonas. I lead Morgan Stanley's Research Department's efforts on embodied AI and humanoid robots. Tim Hsiao: And I'm Tim Hsiao, Greater China Auto Analyst. Adam Jonas: Today – how the global auto industry is evolving from horsepower to brainpower with the help of AI. It's Thursday, August 21st at 9am in New York. Tim Hsiao: And 9pm in Hong Kong. Adam Jonas: From Detroit to Stuttgart to Shanghai, automakers are making big investments in AI. In fact, AI is the engine behind what we think will be a $200 billion self-driving vehicle market by 2030. Tim, you believe that nearly 30 percent of vehicles sold globally by 2030 will be equipped with Level 2+ smart driving features that can control steering, acceleration, braking, and even some hands-off driving. We expect China to account for 60 percent of these vehicles by 2030. What's driving this rapid adoption in China and how does it compare to the rest of the world? Tim Hsiao: China has the largest EV market globally, and the country's EV sales are not only making up over 50 percent of the new car sales locally in China but also accounting for over 50 percent of the global EV sales. As a result, the market is experiencing intense competition. And the car makers are keen to differentiate with the technological innovation, to which smart driving serve[s] as the most effective means. This together with the AI breakthrough enables China to aggressively roll out Level 2+ urban navigation on autopilot. In the meantime, Chinese government support, and cost competitive supply chains also helps. So, we are looking for China's the adoption of Level 2+ smart driving on passenger vehicle to reach 25 percent by end of this year, and 60 percent by 2030 versus 6 percent and 17 percent for the rest of the world during the same period. Adam Jonas: How is China balancing an aggressive rollout with safety and compliance, especially as it moves towards even greater vehicle automation going forward? Tim Hsiao: Right. That's a great and a relevant question because over the years, China has made significant strides in developing a comprehensive regulatory framework for autonomous vehicles. For example, China was already implementing its strategies for innovation and the development of autonomous vehicles in 2022 and had proved several auto OEM to roll out Level 3 pilot programs in 2023. Although China has been implementing stricter requirements since early this year; for example, banning terms like autonomous driving in advertisement and requiring stricter testing, we still believe more detailed industry standard and regulatory measures will facilitate development and adoption of Level 2+ Smart driving. And this is important to prevent, you know, the bad money from driving out goods. Adam Jonas: One way people might encounter this technology is through robotaxis. Now, robotaxis are gaining traction in China's major cities, as you've been reporting. What's the outlook for Level 4 adoption and how would this reshape urban mobility? Tim Hsiao: The size of Level 4+ robotaxi fleet stays small at the moment in China, with less than 1 percent penetration rate. But we've started seeing accelerating roll out of robotaxi operation in major cities since early this year. So, by 2030, we are looking for Level 4+ robotaxis to account for 8 percent of China's total taxi and ride sharing fleet size by 2030. So, this adoption is facilitated by robust regulatory frameworks, including designated test zones and the clear safety guidance. We believe the proliferation of a Level 4 robotaxi will eventually reshape the urban mobility by meaningfully reducing transportation costs, alleviating traffic congestion through optimized routing and potentially reducing accidents. So, Adam, that's the outlook for China. But looking at the global trends beyond China, what are the biggest global revenue opportunities in your view? Is that going to be hardware, software, or something else? Adam Jonas: We are entering a new scientific era where the AI world, the software world is coming into far greater mental contact, and physical contact, with the hardware world and the physical world of manufacturing. And it's being driven by corporate rivalry amongst not just the terra cap, you know, super large cap companies, but also between public and private companies and competition. And then it's being also fueled by geopolitical rivalry and social issues as well, on a global scale. So, we're actually creating an entirely new species. This robotic species that yes, is expressed in many ways on our roads in China and globally – but it's just the beginning. In terms of whether it's hardware, software, or something else – it's all the above. What we've done with a across 40 sectors at Morgan Stanley is to divide the robot, whether it flies, drives, walks, crawls, whatever – we divide it into the brain and the body. And the brain can be divided into sensors and memory and compute and foundational models and simulation. The body can be broken up into actuators, the kind of motor neuron capability, the connective tissue, the batteries. And then there's integrators, that kind of do it all – the hardware, the software, the integration, the training, the data, the compute, the energy, the infrastructure. And so, what's so exciting about this opportunity for our clients is there's no one way to do it. There's no one region to do it. So, stick with us folks. There's a lot of – not just revenue opportunities – but alpha-generating opportunities as well. Tim Hsiao: We are seeing OEMs pivot from cars to humanoids and the electric vertical takeoff in the landing vehicles or EVOTL. Our listeners may have seen videos of these vehicles, which are like helicopters and are designed for urban air mobility. How realistic is this transition and what's the timeline for commercialization in your view? Adam Jonas: Anything that can be electrified will be electrified. Anything that can be automated will be automated. And the advancement of the state of the art in robotaxis and Level 2, Level 3, Level 4+ autonomy is directly transferrable to aviation. There's obviously different regulatory and safety aspects of aviation, the air traffic control and the FAA and the equivalent regulatory bodies in Europe and in China that we will have to navigate, pun intended. But we will get there. We will get there ultimately because taking these technologies of automation and electronic and software defined technology into the low altitude economy will be a superior experience and a vastly cheaper experience. Point to point, on a per person, per passenger, per ton, per mile basis. So the Wright brothers can finally get excited that their invention from 1903, quite a long time ago, could finally, really change how humans live and move around the surface of the earth; even beyond, few tens of thousands of commercial and private aircraft that exist today. Tim Hsiao: The other key questions or key focus for investors is about the business model. So, until now, the auto industry has centered on the car ownership model. But with this new technology, we've been hearing a new model, as you just mentioned, the shared mobility and the autonomous driving fleet. Experts say it could be major disruptor in this sector. So, what's your take on how this will evolve in developed and emerging markets? Adam Jonas: Well, we think when you take autonomous and shared and electric mobility all the way – that transportation starts to resemble a utility like electricity or water or telecom; where the incremental mile traveled is maybe not quite free, but very, very, very low cost. Maybe only; the marginal cost of the mile traveled may only just be the energy required to deliver that mile, whether it's a renewable or non-renewable energy source. And the relationship with a car will change a lot. Individual vehicle ownership may go the way of horse ownership. There will be some, but it'll be seen as a nostalgic privilege, if you will, to own our own car. Others would say, I don't want to own my own car. This is crazy. Why would anyone want to do that? So, it's going to really transform the business model. It will, I think, change the structure of the industry in terms of the number of participants and what they do. Not everybody will win. Some of the existing players can win. But they might have to make some uncomfortable trade-offs for survival. And for others, the car – let's say terrestrial vehicle modality may just be a small part of a broader robotics and then physical embodiment of AI that they're propagating; where auto will just be a really, really just one tendril of many, many dozens of different tendrils. So again, it's beginning now. This process will take decades to play out. But investors with even, you know, two-to-three or three-to-five-year view can take steps today to adjust their portfolios and position themselves. Tim Hsiao: The other key focus of the investor over the market would definitely be the geopolitical dynamics. So, Morgan Stanley expects to see a lot of what you call coopetition between global OEMs and the Chinese suppliers. What do you mean by coopetition and how do you see this dynamic playing out, especially in terms of the tech deflation? Adam Jonas: In order to reduce the United States dependency on China, we need to work with China. So, there's the irony here. Look, in my former life of being an auto analyst, every auto CEO I speak to does not believe that tariffs will limit Chinese involvement in the global auto industry, including onshore in the United States. Many are actively seeking to work with the Chinese through various structures to give them an on-ramp to move onshore to produce their, in many cases, superior products, but in U.S. factories on U.S. shores with American workers. That might lead to some, again, trade-offs. But our view within Morgan Stanley and working with you is we do think that there are on-ramps for Chinese hardware, Chinese knowhow, and Chinese electrical vehicle architecture, but while still being sensitive to the dual-purpose AI sensitivities around software and the AI networks that, for national security reasons, nations want to have more control over. And I actually am hopeful and seeing some signs already that that's going to happen and play out over the next six to 12 months. Tim Hsiao: I would say it's clear that the road ahead isn't just smarter; it's faster, more connected, and increasingly autonomous. Adam Jonas: That's correct, Tim. I could not agree more. Thanks for joining me on the show today. Tim Hsiao: Thanks, Adam. Always a pleasure. Adam Jonas: And to our listeners, thanks for listening. Until next time, stay human and keep driving forward. 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