Podcasts about suvs

Trauma Surgeon Stephan takes his Bullitt Mustang to Magic City Octane Car Show. Lots of cool cars but the vanity plates are the topic of this show. Steve-0 goes on a rant about all the new SUVs are no longer authentic to their origin and are all poseurs.Lots of graphics! Watch on YouTube!#magiccityoctane #vanityplates#carsoncallpodcast #lovefrom #ferrariluce #traumasurgeonsafety #hondacrx #restomods #saab900 #fordmustang #childhoodcarmemories #autotrends #salesanalysis #collectorcars #cartalkpodcast #automotivepodcast #collectingcarspodcast #automotivetalkshow #carreviewspodcast

This week we talk about BYD, Tesla, and the Blade Battery 2.0.We also discuss EVs, internal-combustion engines, and autonomous vehicles.Recommended Book: Blank Space by W. David MarxTranscriptPetroleum-powered vehicles, cars and trucks and SUVs of the kind that have become the standard since the mid-20th century, work by mixing fuel that you put in the tank when you fill up at the gas station with air, in the engine, and then creating a controlled explosion—in modern vehicles using what's called a four-stroke combustion cycle of intake, compression, combustion, then exhaust—in order to move pistons which, in turn generate mechanical power by transferring that movement to the vehicle's wheels.An electric vehicle, in contrast, functions by using electricity from a battery pack to power an electric motor. So rather than needing fuel to combust, which then moves pistons which then moves the wheels, EVs are a straighter-shot with less conversion of energy necessary, electricity powering the motor which powers the wheels.That simpler setup comes with many advantages, and that difference in the conversion of energy is a big one. Because most of the energy injected into the EV's system is converted into mechanical movement for the wheels, this type of vehicle only loses about 11% of the energy you put into it to that conversion of electricity to mechanical energy process—around 31-35% is initially lost while charging, converting electricity to motion, and so on, but about 22% is recaptured by the vehicle's brakes during operation, leading to that 11% average loss.A gas-powered vehicle, in contrast, because of the inefficiencies inherent in converting fuel to combustion to movement, loses somewhere between 75-84% of the energy you put into it at the gas station, much of that loss in the form of heat that is emitted as a result of that conversion process; this is an inevitable consequence of the thermodynamics of burning fuel to create motion, and one that means operating a gas-powered vehicle is inherently lossier, in the sense that you can't help but lose the majority of what you put into it as waste, compared to an electric vehicle, which is less lossy to begin with, but even more efficient when you include that in-operation energy recovery.That baseline reality of energy usage means that modern electric vehicles will typically be cheaper to fuel, to power, because it requires less energy input to get the same amount of travel. This cost-benefit comparison shifts even further in favor of EVs when gas prices are high, though, and though currently the cost of EVs tend to be higher than gas-powered vehicles in most countries, EVs also offer substantially lower lifetime maintenance costs—an average of 40% lower than gas-powered vehicles, due largely to the dramatically reduced number of moving parts in EVs, and the lack of regular, recurring engine-related maintenance tasks, like oil changes and replacing spark plugs.Not even considering the externalities-related savings of owning and operating an EV, then, like the environmental costs of fuel emissions, such vehicles can save owners tens of thousands of dollars in costs over the span of their ownership—though gas-powered vehicles are still more popular in most markets in part because they're just more common on car lots, their infrastructure—gas stations versus charging stations—are also more common, and because there are numerous convenience issues, like it being quite a bit faster to pump a tank full of gas than to charge EVs, which is more efficient, but also a piece-of-mind sort of benefit.What I'd like to talk about today are some recent innovations in the EV and especially EV-scale battery space, and what it might mean for this market in the coming years.—After a relatively boom-y period in which EV sales saw a significant uptick, that uptick the consequence of friendly policies and subsidies from successive federal administrations and the rapid-fire innovations arriving in each new generation of EV model being pumped out by US makers, especially Tesla, the US car industry has in recent years pulled back from electric vehicles substantially—the most recent evidence of this being Honda's recent announcement that three EV models they were planning to manufacture in the US will no longer see production.This was mostly a money decision, the raw and partially manufactured components necessary for US-based car companies to produce EVs are now burdened with new, Trump-era tariffs, that make producing finished products of this kind in the US all but impossible; simply too expensive to make.This is also an acknowledgment, though, that Chinese EVs have just gotten so good and so inexpensive for what you get, that it's simply not possible to compete, not within the current economic and regulatory climate, but also not in the immediate future, even lacking those tariffs, because of how much of a lead Chinese car companies have earned for themselves in this space.New impositions by the second Trump administration, including those tariffs, but also the killing of EV incentives, and a recent decision to cease enforcing emissions and fuel economy standards, basically telling the industry to make vehicles that pollute more, if they like, have absolutely influenced this state of affairs.But the quality of new Chinese EVs, the speed at which a large quantity of them can be produced, and the affordability of these vehicles is simply too much for even the world's most otherwise competitive and industry-owning companies, the most renowned car brands, to match.There are a few serious EV players in other parts of Asia, and some US companies, like Lucid Motors, are still trying to carve out a space for themselves, pivoting toward skateboard-style platforms that will allow them to use fewer scarce products, like expensive wiring, by using essentially the same base for all of their models, allowing them to ramp-up efficiencies of scale faster, and Rivian, which is trying to claim the outdoorsy, Jeep-esque facet of the US EV market; and Tesla of course continues to own a lot of mindshare in this industry, despite seeming to be pivoting toward AI, autonomous vehicles, and political concerns in recent years.But this is increasingly China's domain, and that dominance is the result of a multi-decade push to own basically all the infrastructure and technologies required to electrify their economy, from the ground-up.As a consequence of that dominance, and all the renewables and battery-making facilities and investments in the relevant companies made by the government for the past few decades, we're now seeing impressive technological feats coming out of China, like the recently successfully test-flown Sky Dragon electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, which looks something like a drone combined with a helicopter, and which can reportedly carry either 10 passengers or a ton of cargo up to 155 miles, which is about 250 kilometers, on a single charge, taking off and landing from helipads, so no runway necessary.But the already on-the-market, everyday applications of this tech are arguably even more impressive, considering that car-markers in other countries cannot accomplish anywhere near the same, and maybe won't be able to do so for years.Chinese carmaker BYD is the top entrant in this space right now, in China and globally, by many metrics, and in early March of 2026 they announced a new battery, called the Blade Battery 2.0, which allows the vehicles it powers to be driven more than 621 miles on a single charge.That's compared to the around 400 mile range most large-tanked gas-powered cars can claim. Though even as batteries have gotten larger and more efficient, in terms of their energy storage and expenditure, charging them up has still taken quite a bit longer than filling a tank with gas, often requiring a wait of 30 minutes, though that's usually just for a small top-up, and only if you have access to a fast-charger. A full-charge sometimes requires as much as 24 hours, if you're using a small, non-fast public or a home charger.This differs quite a lot depending where in the world you are, the nature of your EV, and the capacity of the charger you're using. In general, Tesla superchargers can take a Tesla's battery from 20% to 89% in around 15-30 minutes, which on average provides another 200 miles of travel; topping it up to 100% usually takes about an hour.This new battery from BYD, though, which has that 621 mile capacity, can be charged from 10% to 80% in just 6 and a half minutes—and that's not theory, that exact feat was shown in a public, onstage demonstration.This isn't a claim about a technology that will soon arrive, in other words, this is a technology that's already here, for BYD vehicles, at least. And at six and a half minutes for around 300 miles of range, that brings EVs into the same convenience range as gas vehicles, just a minute or so longer than the average stop at a gas station.This of course will require specialized charging stations, and those stations will take a while to roll out. The company has said they'll have 15,000 of their so-called megawatt charging stations available across China by the end of 2026, building 4000 of them, themselves, and the rest through joint ventures. They're also planning to have about 3000 of these chargers built across European by the end of the year.All of which will likely further reinforce and lock-in BYD's advantages over its local and foreign competition, at least for the next several years.Now, it's worth mentioning that China's 's EV industry is currently a bit tumultuous, the stock prices of companies like BYD tumbling due to wild competition on the Chinese market that until recently has been encouraged by the government, which favors a brutal sort of evolutionary business environment for its favored industries, most of the entrants eventually dying off and leaving fewer, but very strong and internationally competitive companies once the melee has died down.It's generally assumed that companies like BYD will cope with this crisis of too-low prices and vehicle overproduction—they and their Chinese competitors are making a lot more EVs than their existing markets can bear—they'll cope by becoming more aggressive with their international expansion, dropping gobs of these incredibly competitive vehicles in more markets, hoping to offload all that stock, but also to suffocate inferior but more expensive local offerings and, consequently, create more lock-in with international customers through those superior products.There's a parallel push for autonomous EVs in many of these markets, which is several years behind the evolution of EV tech, but is also evolving rapidly within China, using that same ultra-brutal competition tactic. These companies are thus quite a bit further along than most of their global competitors, and it seems likely that the semi-autonomous tech built into these newly exported vehicles will help give Chinese companies a leg-up when it comes to exporting autonomous tech to the world, in the next few years.All of which demonstrates the Chinese market's major head-start in this and connected technologies, and which points at a serious concern, not just for the US, but for pretty much everyone, as most of these technologies, like better batteries, are relevant not just for the consumer car industry, but also basically every other field, including future military technologies, and tech related to the AI and broader semiconductor industries, which could lead to still-more, and more varied advantages in the near-future.Show Noteshttps://yaleclimateconnections.org/2024/01/electric-vehicles-use-half-the-energy-of-gas-powered-vehicles/https://www.nrdc.org/stories/electric-vs-gas-cars-it-cheaper-drive-ev#lifetime-costshttps://afdc.energy.gov/vehicles/how-do-all-electric-cars-workhttps://www.energy.gov/cmei/vehicles/articles/fotw-1360-sept-16-2024-typical-ev-87-91-efficient-compared-30-conventionalhttps://arstechnica.com/cars/2026/03/facing-heavy-losses-honda-cancels-its-three-us-made-electric-vehicles/https://arstechnica.com/cars/2026/03/rivian-reveals-pricing-and-trim-details-for-its-r2-suv/https://arstechnica.com/cars/2026/03/lucid-announces-midsize-ev-platform-says-profitability-lies-with-suvs/https://www.livescience.com/technology/electric-vehicles/giant-10-person-flying-taxi-passes-first-flight-test-in-chinahttps://www.fastcompany.com/91503415/byd-ev-battery-competes-with-gas-engineshttps://arstechnica.com/cars/2026/03/byds-latest-evs-can-get-close-to-full-charge-in-just-12-minutes/https://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/19/business/china-electric-vehicle-troubles.htmlhttps://www.kbb.com/car-advice/how-long-charge-tesla/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit letsknowthings.substack.com/subscribe

Benjamin's takes on the 2026 Hyundai Elantra N Line, a car inspired by the sport compacts of yore. The N Line features an upgraded engine and a sportier suspension system, but is it really an enthusiast oriented model, or just an excuse to hike up the price for Hyundai's compact car? Then Sami reviews the 2026 Volkswagen Atlas. After testing so many three-row crossovers lately, Sami turns his attention to the German family-friendly ride, which has been thoroughly refreshed in recent years. However, one glaring red flag spoils Sami's recommendation of the Atlas; can you guess what it is? Finally, the show shares some important and interesting news about Honda's deep-in-development EVs, which are now cancelled. Sami and Benjamin discuss what this means for the EV market in the US and the automotive industry as a whole. Thanks for listening!

It's EV News Briefly for Friday 13 March 2026, everything you need to know in less than 5 minutes if you haven't got time for the full show.Patreon supporters fund this show, get the episodes ad free, as soon as they're ready and are part of the EV News Daily Community. You can be like them by clicking here: https://www.patreon.com/EVNewsDailyRIVIAN REVEALS R2 PRICINGThe Rivian R2 launches in four trims, all sharing an 87.9 kWh usable battery, ranging from the $57,990 Performance AWD (656 hp, 330 miles) arriving this Spring to a ~$45,000 base RWD variant in late 2027 with 275+ miles of range. All trims charge 10–80% in 29 minutes via a native NACS port, with a $1,495 destination charge across the board.FORD CUTS EXPLORER ENTRY PRICE WITH LFP BATTERYFord has revised its European Explorer EV with a new LFP battery pack, growing usable capacity from 52 kWh to 58 kWh and boosting WLTP range 17% to 444 km (276 miles), while a stronger APP350 motor lifts output to 140 kW and cuts the 0–100 km/h time to 8.0 seconds. The updated model starts at €39,990 in Germany and adds vehicle-to-load charging, refreshed infotainment, expanded driver assistance features, and standard one-pedal driving, though peak DC charging drops from 145 kW to 110 kW.LUCID NAMES MIDSIZE SUVS COSMOS AND EARTHLucid revealed at Investor Day 2026 that its two upcoming midsize electric SUVs will be called Cosmos and Earth, targeting a ~$50,000 starting price and production before end of 2026. Both will use 800V architecture, bidirectional charging, the new in-house Atlas drive unit (23% lighter, 30% fewer parts), and Lucid claims just 69 kWh would be sufficient for 300 miles of range thanks to a 0.22 drag coefficient.LUCID GRAVITY ADDS CARPLAY AND ANDROID AUTOLucid has rolled out an OTA update (UX 3.5) bringing wireless and wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to the Gravity SUV for North American owners now, with Europe and the Middle East to follow in late March. Both systems display on the Gravity's 6K Clearview Cockpit screen, addressing one of the most requested features from Lucid customers.JAECOO 8 UK SALES START IN MAYThe Jaecoo 8, a three-row flagship SUV, goes on sale in the UK in May priced from £45,500, using Chery's Super Hybrid System pairing a 1.5-litre turbo petrol with a three-speed auto for 422 bhp, 83 miles of electric-only range, and over 700 miles of combined range. Two trims are offered — Luxury (seven seats, £45,500) and Executive (six Nappa leather captain's chairs, £47,500) — with DC fast charging up to 40 kW for a 30–80% charge in about 20 minutes.EU EV PRICES FALL AS SMALL CARS RETURNAverage EU electric car prices dropped €1,800 to €42,700 in 2025 — the first decline since 2020 — driven by a surge in affordable B-segment BEVs like the Citroën ë-C3 and Renault 5, whose average segment prices fell 13%. T&E expects further price pressure in 2026 as Volkswagen Group prepares a small-car family including the ID. Polo, Cupra Raval, and Skoda Epiq, all targeting around €25,000.HONDA AXES THREE US EVSHonda has cancelled the 0 Series SUV, 0 Series Saloon, and Acura RSX for U.S. production, warning of losses up to ¥2.5 trillion ($15.8 billion) as it reverses its EV strategy amid rollbacks of U.S. fossil fuel regulations and removal of EV incentives. CEO Toshihiro Mibe said the priority is to "stop the bleeding," with operating losses now expected up to ¥1.12 trillion in the current fiscal year; the Sony-Honda Afeela brand is unaffected.VOLKSWAGEN SETS ID. POLO FROM €25,000Volkswagen will world-premiere the entry-level ID. Polo next month, starting at €25,000 and marking the first ID model to carry an established VW brand name. The range spans 37 kWh LFP and 52 kWh NMC battery options with outputs from 85 kW to 166 kW, and includes an R-Line (~€35,000, ~211 hp) and a GTI variant, with up to 450 km (280 miles) of WLTP range from the larger pack.ENEL COMPLETES 3,730 CHARGING STATIONSEnel has finished installing 3,730 EV charging stations across five Italian regions under the first tender of Italy's PNRR recovery plan, with each station offering two points capable of up to 90 kW each. The network is accessible via Enel's app or card and integrates with around 160 mobility service providers, with a further 1,200 stations already contracted under subsequent tenders.ELECTREON COMPLETES INDUCTEV ACQUISITIONElectreon has finalized its acquisition of U.S.-based InductEV, combining dynamic in-road wireless charging with InductEV's high-power stationary wireless charging for heavy-duty transit and freight. The merged portfolio now covers highway and urban corridor charging (LINE), burst charging at stops (DASH), depot charging (DOT), and heavy-duty freight charging (Ultra DOT).SCANDLINES STARTS BALTIC WHALE SERVICEScandlines launched the Baltic Whale on 10 March 2026, claiming it as the world's largest electric freight ferry in operation at 147 metres, running the 18.5 km Rødby–Puttgarden route carrying 66 freight units. Its 10 MWh battery can fully recharge in just 12 minutes via a dedicated 50 kV / 25 MW cable, with an automated docking tower connecting in 15 seconds, while a hybrid diesel mode reduces crossing time from one hour to 45 minutes.

This week on America on the Road, roomy SUVs go under the microscope. Host Jack Nerad tests the family-focused 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 SEL AWD, Hyundai’s newest three-row electric SUV. And co-host Chris Teague details his week-long experience in the luxurious 2026 Lincoln Navigator. The hosts also discuss key industry developments, including Honda’s reverse exports and federal oversight of autonomous vehicles. Plus, Jack sits down with Cameron Creighton, an expert on the 2026 Toyota C-HR and bZ Woodland, to explore Toyota’s latest compact crossover and electric SUV offerings.

Rivian has spent four years and billions of dollars building electric vehicles that most people cannot afford. The R2 — a mid-size SUV that starts at $45,000 and tops out at $57,990 — is the company's answer to that problem. Full pricing and trim details dropped today, 12 March 2026, and deliveries of the first Performance variant begin this spring. If it works, Rivian becomes a proper carmaker. If it does not, the maths gets ugly fast.From Concept to ConcreteThe R2 platform was first announced in 2022, with production originally pencilled in for 2025 at a planned factory in Georgia. That changed in March 2024, when RJ Scaringe, Rivian's founder and chief executive, unveiled the production-ready R2 alongside the smaller R3 and R3X crossovers at a packed event at the Rivian Theater in Laguna Beach, California. Mr Scaringe also confirmed he was scrapping the Georgia plan — at least for now — and would build the R2 at the existing Normal, Illinois plant instead. That decision saved more than $2.25 billion in capital expenditure and, crucially, pulled the launch date forward.Within 24 hours of its unveiling, Rivian had taken more than 68,000 reservations at $100 apiece. By July 2024, the company's VP of manufacturing Tim Fallon said reservations had surpassed 100,000 and were still climbing. Rivian has not updated that figure publicly since.Production began in January 2026. Validation vehicles rolled off the Normal line first, and the factory is now ramping toward a target capacity of 155,000 R2 units per year — alongside the R1 models it already builds there. Each R2 takes roughly 15 hours to assemble, down from 18 hours for an R1.Why the R2 Matters More Than Any Vehicle Rivian Has BuiltThe R1T pickup and R1S SUV earned Rivian a devoted following and the top spot in Consumer Reports owner satisfaction surveys. They also bled money. Rivian posted a net loss of $3.65 billion in 2025, on top of a $4.75 billion loss in 2024. The R1S starts near $75,000 (around £59,000) — a price that limits the addressable market to a sliver of American buyers."R2 is really instrumental for driving the business to positive cash flow and overall profitability," Mr Scaringe told CNBC in February. He was not exaggerating. The bill of materials for the R2 is roughly half that of the R1. Rivian slashed the number of computing units from over 60 in a traditional vehicle to seven, and cut wiring length by about two miles (3.2 km). The result is what Mr Scaringe called "a dramatic reduction in the cost structure to build it."Rivian did scrape together a positive gross profit in the fourth quarter of 2025 — a milestone, though the margin was wafer-thin at around 2%, compared with Tesla's 17%. The R2, with its leaner architecture and lower price, is meant to close that gap at volume. Analysts expect around 15,000 R2 deliveries in 2026, though some believe Rivian could exceed that figure. By 2027, with three full shifts running, the Normal plant could produce roughly 155,000 R2s annually.Today's Pricing: What You GetThe lineup spans four trims, all sharing an 87.9 kWh usable battery and a $1,495 destination charge. Here is how they break down:The Performance trim arrives first, this spring, at $57,990 (around £46,000) including the Launch Package. It runs dual-motor all-wheel drive with 656 horsepower, 609 lb-ft (826 Nm) of torque and a 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) time of 3.6 seconds. Highway overtaking is savage: 50–70 mph (80–113 km/h) in 1.55 seconds. EPA-estimated range sits at up to 330 miles (531 km). The Launch Package bundles lifetime Autonomy+ access, a tow package rated at 4,400 lbs (1,996 kg) and an exclusive Launch Green paint option.The Premium trim follows in late 2026 at $53,990 (around £43,000). It shares the 330-mile range and dual-motor AWD layout but dials the power back to 450 hp and 537 lb-ft. Zero to 60 takes 4.6 seconds — hardly slow.The Standard RWD Long Range arrives in the first half of 2027 at $48,490 (around £38,500). A single rear motor delivers 350 hp and 355 lb-ft, reaching 60 in 5.9 seconds. Rivian estimates range at up to 345 miles (555 km) — the longest in the lineup, because rear-wheel drive is more efficient.Finally, the Standard RWD variant lands in late 2027 at approximately $45,000 (around £35,700). It uses a smaller battery pack and offers 275+ miles (443+ km) of estimated range. Rivian has shared few other details so far.All trims charge from 10% to 80% in 29 minutes via a native NACS port, which grants access to the Tesla Supercharger network. CCS adapters are supported too.Built Lighter, Built TougherThe R2 rides on an entirely new mid-size unibody platform — a departure from the R1's body-on-frame architecture. The result is a vehicle that weighs nearly 2,000 lbs (907 kg) less than its bigger sibling while sitting on a 115.6-inch (2,936 mm) wheelbase. At 185.9 inches (4,722 mm) long and 75 inches (1,905 mm) wide, it is squarely in Tesla Model Y territory.The weight savings translate directly into agility, but Rivian has kept the off-road DNA intact. Ground clearance of 9.6 inches (244 mm) is best in class — nearly three inches more than a Model Y. Approach and departure angles of 25° and 26° respectively, plus a wading depth of 19.7 inches (500 mm), mean the R2 can do more than look adventurous in a car park. The Performance trim gets semi-active suspension, eight drive modes including Rally and Soft Sand, and a low centre of gravity courtesy of the structural battery pack.Inside, the cabin seats five adults with 40.4 inches (1,026 mm) of rear legroom and headroom — enough, Rivian says, for occupants over six feet (1.83 m) tall. Total enclosed storage is 90.1 cubic feet (2,551 litres), with a front trunk that swallows a carry-on suitcase and a backpack, fold-flat rear seats that create a level loading surface, and dual gloveboxes. The rear drop glass — a powered window that lowers completely into the liftgate — is a genuine talking point, allowing surfboards and other long cargo to slide in or a breeze to sweep through. It is included on Performance and Premium trims.Materials lean sustainable: upcycled Birch wood accents, a headliner made from recycled ocean plastics and Rivian's second-generation Adventex material, which is designed to withstand muddy boots and wet dogs in equal measure.The Technology PlayRivian calls the R2 a "software-defined vehicle," and the specification sheet backs that up. The perception stack comprises 11 HDR cameras with a combined 65 megapixels and a five-radar system — hardware that comes standard on every trim.Rivian Autonomy+, the company's Level 2+ hands-free driver-assist system, covers 3.5 million miles (5.6 million km) of roads across the United States and Canada. It costs $49.99 per month or $2,500 as a one-off purchase. The Launch Package includes it for the lifetime of the vehicle. Every R2 gets a 60-day trial.On-board AI compute runs to 200 TOPS, dedicated to the in-cabin experience. This powers the forthcoming Rivian Assistant — a voice-controlled system that processes complex requests locally, even when offline. The 5G-connected architecture ensures updates arrive over the air, while the offline capability means the vehicle is not hobbled in areas without signal.At the steering wheel, Rivian's in-house Haptic Halo dials replace conventional switchgear. These context-aware controls scroll, push, pull and tilt with distinct tactile feedback for different functions — an attempt to bridge the gap between touchscreen convenience and physical control that many rivals have abandoned entirely. Two digital displays complete the cockpit: one behind the wheel for driving data, and one in the centre for everything else.The Elephant in the Room: TeslaThe R2 lands in the most contested segment of the electric vehicle market. The Tesla Model Y — the best-selling EV on the planet and briefly the best-selling car of any kind in 2023 — starts at $44,000 in the United States and delivers up to 357 miles (575 km) of range. It has a vast Supercharger network, a mature software ecosystem and years of manufacturing refinement behind it.The R2 fights back with 3 inches (7.6 cm) more ground clearance, genuine off-road hardware, a richer interior (Model Y's cabin has always divided opinion) and that distinctive outdoor-adventure identity that Rivian has cultivated since its founding. Whether that is enough to prise buyers away from Tesla — or from the Hyundai Ioniq 5, the Ford Mustang Mach-E and the Chevrolet Equinox EV — remains the central question.Why Failure Is Not an OptionRivian burned roughly $3 billion in the first nine months of 2025 alone. It ended 2024 with about $5.3 billion in cash, a figure being steadily eroded by capital expenditure and operating losses. The Volkswagen joint venture — worth up to $5.8 billion in total — provides a lifeline, as does the potential for Department of Energy loan access. But lifelines do not last for ever.The company's stock tells its own story. Rivian went public in November 2021 at $78 a share, briefly touched $170 and now trades around $15. A 90% decline from the peak concentrates the mind wonderfully.The R2 must do three things at once: attract a materially larger customer base than the R1 ever could, generate a positive gross margin per vehicle and ramp to volumes that spread fixed costs across enough units to bend the loss curve downward. At a planned capacity of 155,000 units per year from Normal alone — with a second factory in Georgia eventually to follow — Rivian has the industrial ambition. The Volkswagen partnership supplies software licensing revenue and engineering credibility.Mr Scaringe has described the R2 as "the most important thing that we've developed as a company." On the evidence of today's specification sheet, it is also the most complete. The range is competitive, the technology is ambitious, the price is within reach of mainstream buyers and the off-road capability gives it a personality that few electric SUVs can match.None of which will matter if Rivian cannot build it at scale, on time and at a cost that leaves room for profit. The company that once dazzled Wall Street with a $170 share price now needs to dazzle customers with a $45,000 truck. That is the harder trick — and the one on which everything depends.

If you haven't purchased a car in a few years, expect to find a market dominated by SUVs. And be prepared for sticker shock: The average price for a new vehicle is at an all-time high, around $50,000! Unfortunately, used cars aren't the bargain they used to be. In this episode, we talk with John Lincov, Keith Barry, and Stef Schrader, the editors and reporters at Consumer Reports, about their Top Picks for 2026—these cars, trucks, and SUVs are the cream of the crop. Also, how to choose a vehicle you really like, and what to consider before buying a used car or truck.More from Consumer Reports:Best Cars of the Year: 10 Top Picks of 2026What Car Should You Buy? How to Find the Right Vehicle for YouSafest Car Brands Ranked by Consumer Reports' Safety VerdictCar Accessories That Improve Safety, Comfort, and Organization42 Used Cars to Avoid BuyingMore from Checkbook:Car DealershipsCar Buying StrategiesVehicle Service Contract Plans Are Big Hassles and Bad Deals for Most DriversRelated Consumerpedia Episodes:#56 – A Crash Course on Auto Insurance#21 – Auto Glass Class: How to Get Repairs and ReplacementsNot a Checkbook member? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up for a free 30-day trial to access all of our unbiased ratings⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

If you're following Kṛṣṇa's authority and you take initiation, you're authorized. It means you become a follower of the original author; and the word '-ize'—say, 'ize' and 'ized'—it's almost like a bolt of electricity. You're 'author,' and then 'authorized'—you suddenly become endowed with a kind of śakti. Where does that śakti come from? It comes from Kṛṣṇa, and it gets passed down through the Śrī Guru-paramparā. Those who would follow Kṛṣṇa as 'servants of the servant of the servant of the servant' are also given the duty to serve others by giving them the opportunity to follow the instructions that have been passed down from Kṛṣṇa. That's what a Guru is: a Guru is the servant who's been authorized. Kṛṣṇa is the Author. Those who follow Kṛṣṇa are authorized; they become transcendental by dint of following. Therefore, the third offense is to 'go off-road.' That's why SUVs are there. Everyone's on the verge of going off-road, but nobody ever does. They just drive on the 101 freeway with a $75,000 car and wheels that could drive on ice, snow, or sand. But that's why people like SUVs—it's because they think, 'Well, one of these days, I'm just going to get off the 101 and drive wherever I want.' But the third offense says: Don't do that. Follow the authorized instructions that you're given, and then you stay in the protection of Kṛṣṇa. And therefore, it's indicative of initiation. You take the instructions given to you by an agent who's been authorized—by following the authorized agent, and so on down the line. If you stay within that, then you'll be safe. Remember Sītā? Lakṣmaṇa said, 'Don't go outside this,' and we shouldn't chase after golden deer. I'll just leave it at that." ------------------------------------------------------------ To connect with His Grace Vaiśeṣika Dāsa, please visit https://www.fanthespark.com/next-steps/ask-vaisesika-dasa/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=video&utm_campaign=launch2025 https://vaisesikadasayatra.blogspot.com/ ------------------------------------------------------------ Add to your wisdom literature collection: https://iskconsv.com/book-store/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=video&utm_campaign=launch2025 https://www.bbtacademic.com/books/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=video&utm_campaign=launch2025 https://thefourquestionsbook.com/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=video&utm_campaign=launch2025 ------------------------------------------------------------ Join us live on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FanTheSpark/ Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sound-bhakti/id1132423868 For the latest videos, subscribe https://www.youtube.com/@FanTheSpark For the latest in SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/fan-the-spark ------------------------------------------------------------ #spiritualawakening #soul #spiritualexperience #spiritualpurposeoflife #spiritualgrowthlessons #secretsofspirituality #vaisesikaprabhu #vaisesikadasa #vaisesikaprabhulectures #spirituality #bhaktiyoga #krishna #spiritualpurposeoflife #krishnaspirituality #spiritualusachannel #whybhaktiisimportant #whyspiritualityisimportant #vaisesika #spiritualconnection #thepowerofspiritualstudy #selfrealization #spirituallectures #spiritualstudy #spiritualquestions #spiritualquestionsanswered #trendingspiritualtopics #fanthespark #spiritualpowerofmeditation #spiritualteachersonyoutube #spiritualhabits #spiritualclarity #bhagavadgita #srimadbhagavatam #spiritualbeings #kttvg #keepthetranscendentalvibrationgoing #spiritualpurpose

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1290: Guest host Jamie Butters joins as we cover New-vehicle inventory hits 3 million units but slower sales are aging the lot. Honda begins importing cars from four countries. And a startup will pay you $800 to spend a day bullying AI chatbots.U.S. new-vehicle inventory climbed to 3.02 million units in February—a 75-day supply heading into spring—but a slower selling rate is doing more work than the numbers suggest.Total inventory is nearly identical to a year ago, but days' supply jumped 10 days year-over-year as vehicles are simply taking longer to move off lots.Mid-range vehicles ($30K–$50K) are sitting an average of 73 days; luxury units above $80K are aging even slower at 80 days on lot.EV supply dropped sharply to 109 days from 132 the prior month; hybrids fell to 61 days; and ICE vehicles came in at 75 days—all trending in the right direction.Sedans remain the leanest segment at 60 days, while pickups and SUVs are hovering around 75–76 days.Toyota continues to run the tightest ship in the industry at just 27 days' supply—the only major automaker under 40 days.Honda has a brand problem in Japan—and its solution is becoming one of the country's biggest auto importers, shipping in vehicles from the U.S., China, Thailand, and India to win back buyers it lost chasing minicars.Honda went all-in on domestic minicars like the N-Box, which became Japan's top-selling minicar—but left buyers wanting larger Honda nameplates like the Accord, Odyssey, and CR-V that the company had quietly stopped making at home.To course correct, Honda is importing four new nameplates this year: the Acura Integra Type S and Honda Passport from the U.S., a new electric Insight from China, and the CR-V from Thailand.The U.S.-built models will ship in left-hand drive despite Japan's right-hand-drive norm, limiting their volume—but the move is more about brand signal than scale.Honda is now Japan's third-largest importer behind only Mercedes-Benz and Suzuki—a stunning reversal for a brand that imported just 39 vehicles into Japan as recently as 2015.A startup is paying $800 to hire a Professional AI Bully — no tech skills required, just a long memory for every time an AI forgot yours.The gig pays $100/hour for an 8-hour shift spent stress-testing the memory of popular AI chatbots — asking them to remember things, seeing what they forget, and documenting the frustration.The company behind it, Memvid, builds AI memory tools and says the stunt is designed to make a real problem visible: "People constantly have to repeat themselves to chatbots."No degree, no experience, no special skills needed — just an "extensive personal history of being let down by technology" and enough patience to ask the same question twice.Today's show is brought to you by iPacket Value. From accurate MSJoin 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/

NIO hit its first quarterly profit in 11 years. Stock up 15% yesterday. Down 4% today. Up 16% on the week.Today I go deeper than the headlines and ask the harder question: did William Li actually win his long bet? And what comes next?WHAT WE COVER:— 100 billion yuan in losses over 11 years: what that road really means for long-term investors— Why NIO's 18% vehicle margin is more impressive than it looks given everything they were building simultaneously— The $2.5 billion battery swap bet — where it stands and what 10,000 stations by decade's end means for the moat— The ES8 carried Q4. Where is the next breakout model?— ES9, Onvo L80, and new large SUV all launching in 2026 — five large SUVs in market by H2— Full-year non-GAAP profitability: the real milestone to watch— $4.59 to $5.47 in five trading days — the bigger trendStill bullish. Still objective. Still watching every number.Courtside Financial. Hosted by Obi.NIO, NIO earnings, NIO 2026, NIO analysis, William Li,NIO battery swap, NIO ES8, NIO ES9, NIO Onvo L80,NIO vehicle margin, NIO profitability, Chinese EV stocks,EV investing 2026, NIO bull case, Courtside Financial,EV podcast, NIO post earnings, NIO next catalyst

Mike Armstrong and Paul Lane break down the market rebound as oil prices swing sharply on shifting headlines out of Iran. They explain why even a short-lived spike in energy costs could complicate the Federal Reserve's rate outlook and why inflation data coming this week matters more than usual in the wake of geopolitical tensions.The bigger concern: what higher gasoline prices could mean for U.S. automakers. After years of pivoting from EV investments back toward trucks and SUVs, Detroit now faces the risk that sustained $4 gas could shift consumer demand yet again. The hosts discuss how policy whiplash, fuel costs, and changing buying patterns are colliding at the worst possible time for car manufacturers.Plus, they examine the growing “unretirement” trend, the risks facing younger investors in today's speculative environment, and a lighter look at the fast-food burger wars heating up online.

Over the past few years, the car market has gone through some changes.It's getting more expensive to buy a vehicle. Prices for new cars are high and so are interest rates, leaving many buyers stretching payments over six or even seven years to keep monthly costs manageable. Used cars aren't as affordable as they used to be and insurance and repair costs are rising too. At the same time, the types of vehicles on the market are shifting. Electric vehicles are more common. So are SUVs.So, what does this all mean if you're thinking about buying a car?  MPR News host Angela Davis talks with her guests about the economics of buying a car in 2026 — what's driving prices, how financing is changing and what buyers should know before heading to the dealership.Guests:Chris Farrell is senior economics contributor for MPR News and Marketplace. Joseph Yoon is the consumer insights analyst for Edmunds, an online resource for researching and buying both used and new vehicles. 

WWJ auto analyst John McElroy reports the war in Iran is causing gas prices to increase and that could affect GM, Ford and Stellantis who sell many pickups and large SUVs.

What makes a Subaru Outback, the "Subaru Outback?" This week, the Unnamed Automotive Podcast crams to understand the brand's iconic vehicle, which has finally transitioned from wagon to SUV with the 2026 model year. Benjamin test drives it through the winter, while Sami shares his memories of his 2010 and experience with his 2020 model to see how they compare. Can the Subaru faithful get over the exterior design and appreciate what the automaker has been able to accomplish with this new generation? Is the powetrain up to snuff? Can it handle the snow? Find out all the answers in this weeks episode! Thanks for listening!

I wasn't early enough, by 10 minutes, as the bellringers started about 9:40, the intel from Dennis was slightly wrong. A lady walking through the graveyard shouted ‘Happy Recording!' before I was actually recording, the headphones disconnected (wireless) after 5 minutes so I was unable to monitor the sound, the bells clipped a bit at the beginning of the recording as they were so loud even at about 30 feet away (they are usually way up in a tower projecting across town rather than at ground level), a good chat to the East Bergholt Ringers that were In favour of the recording and passed details of local people to speak to, sounds from the town masked out the sounds of the aircraft which makes a pleasant change from the aircraft masking out the sounds of nature, organ and singing of hymns coming from inside the Church, they tyres of SUVs roaring past, a white unidentified flying feather hovering in the graveyard for 20 seconds before floating to the ground, a young man wearing a wind cheater in the rain. The Pied Wagtail of Bergholt the Pied Piper ​made me realise as I watched it twitching its tail from on top of a gravestone that nature is a huge improvised ensemble that could at any moment produce a flourish a drone a rhythm a fill a chorus a crescendo a pause and that beauty that exists in a moment that only you witness and then is gone unseen by anyone else go to it and sit quietly until it comes to you meet it half way go to a concert of improvised music to hear, see a recreation an imitation of the same process in the best way that we know how. all music is historical unless it is being created right in the moment be in the space where it is being made to get an unfiltered experience natural sound is the same listen to it without inhibition raw, real and undiluted the predetermined controlled mapped out plan of conformity to life is as far away from this as being locked in prison.

It's EV News Briefly for Friday 06 March 2026, everything you need to know in less than 5 minutes if you haven't got time for the full show.Patreon supporters fund this show, get the episodes ad free, as soon as they're ready and are part of the EV News Daily Community. You can be like them by clicking here: https://www.patreon.com/EVNewsDailyBMW TO UNVEIL ELECTRIC I3 SALOON ON 18 MARCH  BMW will reveal the new i3 saloon on 18 March as the first fully electric 3 Series, using the Neue Klasse Gen6 platform with 800V architecture, 400kW charging, and an expected 50 xDrive dual-motor, 108kWh setup targeting around 500 miles of range and potentially more thanks to its saloon aerodynamics. It will be the second Neue Klasse model after the iX3, aimed squarely at the Tesla Model 3 and future premium rivals from Mercedes, Audi, Xpeng and BYD's Denza, with a full line-up planned including an electric M3.  TESLA UK DROPS 37% AS UK EV SALES RISE  Tesla's UK registrations fell 37% year-on-year in February to 2,422 units, even as the overall market hit its strongest February since 2004 and BEVs grew to 24.2% of new registrations, with Chinese brands like BYD surging 83%. Tesla has argued that monthly registration data is misleading versus orders and quarterly shipments, but critics note all brands face similar timing issues, and for now the headline picture is a growing UK EV market in which Tesla's share is shrinking.  EVGO ENDS 2025 WITH 5,100 FAST-CHARGING STALLS  EVgo closed 2025 with 5,100 DC fast-charging stalls in operation, up 25% year-on-year after a record Q4 net gain of about 510 stalls, including 320 company-owned units and 190 eXtend-branded stalls at partner sites. The network is getting both denser and faster, with nearly a third of stations now offering six or more stalls and 62% of all stalls equipped with 350kW hardware, up sharply from 50% in late 2024.  LUCID FEBRUARY US SALES JUMP ON GRAVITY RAMP  Lucid's US sales jumped to 1,500 vehicles in February, almost double January, driven by a sharp ramp in Gravity SUV deliveries alongside 900 Air sedans. With Gravity now starting at $79,900 (via the Touring trim) and supported by a $7,500 lease credit plus targeted trade-in offers for Tesla, Rivian and Polestar owners, Lucid is boosting US momentum even as European registrations remain minimal. VW DEALERS SUE OVER SCOUT DIRECT SALES  Two Volkswagen dealerships in Connecticut and New York have launched a class-action lawsuit against Scout Motors and Volkswagen, arguing that Scout's Tesla-style direct-to-consumer sales model violates existing VW franchise agreements and deprives dealers of a lucrative new brand. Scout and CEO Scott Keogh counter that Scout is a separate entity from Volkswagen Group of America and therefore not bound to use VW's franchised dealer network.  VOLKSWAGEN GROUP HITS FOUR MILLION BEV DELIVERIES  Volkswagen Group has delivered its four-millionth battery-electric vehicle, accelerating from nearly a decade to reach the first million to adding the fourth million in just one year, powered largely by its MEB platform and around 30 all-electric passenger models. Most BEVs are built and sold in Europe, where compact SUVs and crossovers such as the VW ID.4/ID.5 dominate, while China and the US account for smaller but growing shares of volume and production. EGBATT LAUNCHES NOVA 60 DUAL BUFFERED CHARGER  EGbatt's new Nova 60 Dual combines a 60kW DC fast charger with a 60kWh LiFePO₄ battery in a single outdoor unit, allowing sites to deliver full fast-charging power without expensive grid upgrades by relying on buffered energy. Optional 20kW DC solar input lets operators integrate rooftop PV directly, helping cut operating costs and increase the share of renewable energy used for charging. LOTUS ADDS RANGE-EXTENDER ELETRE X FOR CHINA  Lotus has responded to softer demand for high-end pure EVs by launching the Eletre X plug-in range-extender SUV in China, pairing a 70kWh battery and 900V fast-charging system with a 2.0-litre turbo engine that mostly drives a generator but can also clutch to the front wheels for motorway efficiency. Delivering 952bhp, 0–62mph in 3.3 seconds and around 150 miles of electric-only range in a 2.6-tonne package, the Eletre X shares its new Geely-platform underpinnings with the Zeekr 9X and is slated to reach the UK no earlier than 2027.

CapeTalk’s Saskia Falken (in for Sara-Jayne Makwala King) is joined on Weekend Breakfast by City Press motoring journalist Melinda Ferguson, who reviews the latest cars on the road and keeps us up to date with motor industry news. This week’s cars: Jetour T2, Landrover Defender Octa, BYD Dolphin Surf, VW Golf 1.4 TSI, Audi RS Q8, Chery Tiggo 7 PHEV Weekend Breakfast with Sara-Jayne Makwala King is the weekend breakfast show on CapeTalk. This 3-hour morning programme is the perfect (and perky!) way to kickstart your weekend. Author and journalist Sara-Jayne Makwala-King spends 3 hours interviewing a variety of guests about all things cultural and entertaining. The team keeps an eye on weekend news stories, but the focus remains on relaxation and restoration. Favourites include the weekly wellness check-in on Saturdays at 7:35 am and heartfelt chats during the Sunday 9 am profile interview. Listen live on Primedia+ Saturdays and Sundays between 07:00 and 10:00 am (SA Time) to Weekend Breakfast with Sara-Jayne Makwala-King broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/AgPbZi9 or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/j1EhEkZ Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Big SUVs aren't supposed to feel nimble—yet our week with the 2025 Ford Expedition King Ranch told a different story. We break down what Ford changed for the new generation, from the tasteful exterior touches to a cabin that jumps a class with Mesa Del Rio leather, a sprawling 24-inch driver display, and a crisp 13.2-inch touchscreen. Add second-row captain's chairs, a power-folding third row, B&O Unleashed audio, and BlueCruise with Co‑Pilot360 2.0, and you've got a road-trip rig that treats the whole crew well without turning every maneuver into a chore.Under the hood, the 3.5L twin-turbo V6 and 10‑speed automatic deliver confident acceleration and serious towing capability—up to 9,600 pounds when properly equipped. We share real-world fuel economy and why the Expedition's steering feel and turning radius surprised us more than the spec sheet suggested. Then we zoom out to the buying decision: where the Expedition sits on price across trims, and how it stacks up against the Chevy Tahoe, Toyota Sequoia hybrid, and Nissan Armada. If you're shopping full-size three-row SUVs, these head-to-head details will save you time and test drives.We also get candid about the messier side of modern vehicles: software reliability. From Bluetooth dropouts and lackluster OTA updates to subscription fatigue, we unpack why the “software-defined vehicle” promise keeps tripping over basics. And for EV fans, we discuss Ford's Mustang Mach‑E moving the frunk to the options list to make room for a larger heat pump—proof that packaging choices have real-world trade-offs. To round things out, we share Houston-area cruise-ins and shows, plus where to watch our live stream and catch the podcast on your favorite platform.If you enjoy smart car talk without the fluff, hit follow and share this episode with a friend who's SUV shopping. Leave a quick review to tell us where the Expedition lands on your shortlist and what tech actually matters on your daily drive.Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at info@inwheeltime.com

Dr. Friday discusses annual vehicle depreciation limit adjustments and why business-use percentage matters. She reminds owners that personal-use vehicles generally cannot be fully depreciated. Transcript G’day, I’m Dr. Friday, president of Dr. Friday’s Tax and Financial Firm. To get more info, go to www.drfriday.com. This is a one-minute moment. Vehicle depreciation limits continue to adjust annually for inflation, impacting deductions for business owners’ cars, SUVs, and trucks. Luxury auto vehicle depreciation treatment is an important thing to understand. If your vehicle is not used 100% for business, and if you only have one vehicle that would be impossible, you do not qualify for full depreciation. You need help with your car, taxes, anything, just check us out on the web at drfriday.com. You can catch the Dr. Friday Call-in Show live every Saturday afternoon from 2 to 3 p.m. right here on 99.7 WTN.

What happens when vintage American steel meets modern performance engineering? This week on The Collector Car Podcast, I sit down with Daniel van Doveren of Vigilante 4x4 to talk about the booming world of high-end Jeep restomods. Vigilante has quietly become one of the most respected names in the space, transforming classic Willys and early Jeep models into fully reengineered machines with modern drivetrains, refined interiors, and show-stopping craftsmanship. Daniel shares how Vigilante 4x4 approaches restoration versus reinvention, what collectors are really looking for in today's vintage 4x4 market, and why properly executed restomods are earning serious respect alongside traditional concours restorations. We also dive into: The rising demand for classic SUVs and 4x4s What separates a high-quality restomod from a quick build The economics behind six-figure custom Jeeps Why early utility vehicles are becoming lifestyle statements If you've ever wondered whether restomods belong in serious collections — this episode may change your perspective. Learn more at: https://www.vigilante4x4.com/ #CollectorCarPodcast #Vigilante4x4 #DanielVanDoveren #Restomod #RestomodJeep #ClassicJeep #Vintage4x4 #CollectorCars #ClassicSUV #OffRoadIcons #AutomotiveEntrepreneur #CarCollectors  

Was Trey wrong for going out with the guys when he was starting to feel sick? In this episode, Trey becomes the defendant in Judge Jake, where Jake hears the full case: a rare guys' night, a pregnant wife at home with two kids, and a next-morning sickness that may or may not have been mistaken for a hangover.The episode also includes a wild story about police SUVs showing up in the neighborhood, the paranoia of neighborhood apps like Ring and Nextdoor, a debate about weird sayings like “doesn't pull any punches,” and a Correct Opinion about whether “nursing presents” should exist.Support the show!Head to http://factormeals.com slashcorrectopinions50off and use code correctopinions50off to get 50 percent off and free breakfast for a year. Eat like a pro this month with Factor. Join the Patreon!http://patreon.com/treykennedySee Trey Live! http://treykennedy.com/tour

Big SUVs don't have to drive like buses. We put the 2025 Ford Expedition King Ranch through a real week of miles and came away surprised by the steering precision, quiet ride, and how easily the cabin tech fades into the background so you can actually enjoy the drive. From the panoramic roof and bronze 22-inch wheels to a 24-inch driver display and 13.2-inch touchscreen, this full-size three-row blends comfort with capability, towing up to 9,600 pounds while returning honest, real-world fuel economy.We break down what matters for buyers: how BlueCruise and Co-Pilot360 2.0 help on long stints, how the B&O Unleashed 22-speaker audio fills the cabin, and why the second-row captain's chairs and power-folding third row make life easier for families. Then we talk money and matchups. The Expedition's pricing strategy ranges from a value-forward Active trim to the fully loaded King Ranch tested here, so cross-shopping the Chevy Tahoe, Nissan Armada, and Toyota Sequoia is essential. We explain who wins on base price, where hybrids shift the math, and why the Expedition's driving dynamics could be the tiebreaker.Durability fans get a deep dive into longevity. We outline why Toyota and Lexus dominate 250,000-mile lists, how Honda's practical engineering earns consistent high-mile results, and where Chevrolet proves its mettle with Suburban and Silverado. We also call out the pain points that keep RAM and Jeep from climbing the charts and explore why Tesla's older models struggle in used reliability rankings even as newer ones improve.To round out the enthusiast calendar, we map five standout concours events—from The Amelia and Greenwich to Cincinnati, Pebble Beach, and Ironstone—so you can plan your year around the cars that made history. Finally we look at the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross, one of those SUVs that just makes sense. It's compact enough for tight parking spots but roomy enough for groceries, road trips, or the daily commute. The hybrid option boosts fuel economy, the ride is smooth and quiet, and the tech is easy to use. It's practical, affordable, and ready for everyday life without drama. If you love smart car shopping, long-haul ownership tips, and a little dream-garage inspiration, you're in the right place. Hit folBe sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at info@inwheeltime.com

Thor Industries — the world's largest RV manufacturer — just announced a major corporate restructuring, grouping brands like Jayco, Tiffin, Keystone, Dutchmen, and others under new leadership structures. We break down what this means for the industry… and why it comes as RV stocks continue to tumble. Several major recalls that could impact RVers: • 4.3 million Ford trucks and SUVs recalled for trailer module issues • 15,000 Ford Transit vans recalled for potential brake failure • 3.2 million Weber grill brushes recalled due to ingestion hazards • Nearly 20,000 Trek electric bikes recalled over rear wheel separation risk Plus, 19 Washington state park campgrounds could close or see reduced services due to budget cuts, while Texas opens its first new North Texas state park in nearly 25 years — Palo Pinto Mountains State Park. Get free shipping on orders over $99 at Etrailer: https://www.etrailer.com/vehicle-finder.aspx?etam=p0001 ****************************** Connect with RV Miles:  RV Miles Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/rvmiles Shop the RV Miles Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/shop/rvmiles RV Miles Mailing List: https://rvmiles.com/mailinglist Mile Marker Membership: https://rvmiles.com/milemarkers 00:00 Intro 00:42 Thor Restructures Brands 02:18 Stocks Slide and Camping World 03:01 Sponsor Etrailer 03:48 Ford Truck Recall 05:25 Transit Brake Failure Recall 05:52 Weber Brush and Trek Recalls 07:41 Washington Parks Budget Cuts 08:57 Texas New State Park Opens 10:15 Wrap Up  

It's EV News Briefly for Monday 02 March 2026, everything you need to know in less than 5 minutes if you haven't got time for the full show.Patreon supporters fund this show, get the episodes ad free, as soon as they're ready and are part of the EV News Daily Community. You can be like them by clicking here: https://www.patreon.com/EVNewsDailyBMW USA SHOP LEAK POINTS TO 2027 LINEUPA leak on BMW USA's online shop revealed two fully electric i3 sedan variants — the i3 40 xDrive and i3 50 xDrive — confirmed for the US in 2027, sharing the Neue Klasse platform with the iX3 and featuring Gen6 batteries, 800-volt hardware, and an iDrive X interior. The 2027 lineup also adds a first-ever iX4 coupe-SUV in two variants, an iX3 in three configurations launching in North America this summer, an electric iX5, and an i3 M60 alongside a full electric M3 positioned as the spiritual successor to today's M3 Competition.TESLA BERLIN RUNS HALF FULL AS UNION ROW SIMMERSTesla's Gigafactory Berlin produced 211,235 vehicles in 2024 against a stated annual capacity of 375,000 — a 56% utilisation rate — and output has since declined further, with the factory now reportedly running at around 40% capacity and BYD outselling Tesla in Europe in January 2026. Labour tensions are deepening ahead of works council elections, with IG Metall pursuing collective wage agreements similar to those at Volkswagen and BMW, while Tesla filed a criminal complaint against a union member and Elon Musk warned that "outside organisations" could hinder the site's ambition to become Europe's largest factory complex.T&E: LOCAL BATTERIES COULD CUT COST GAPA Transport & Environment report argues the EU can shrink the cost gap between domestically made and Chinese batteries from 90% to around 30% through scaled-up local production, with higher automation and lower scrap rates potentially cutting the gap to $14 per kWh by 2030 — equivalent to roughly €500 on an average EV. The findings align with the EU's forthcoming Industrial Accelerator Act, which targets ~70% local content thresholds for publicly supported EVs, though some carmakers warn this risks making batteries prohibitively expensive while T&E's Julia Poliscanova calls it "a sovereignty premium worth paying," particularly given China's export restrictions on critical minerals.TRIBUNAL BACKS 5% VAT ON SOME PUBLIC CHARGINGA UK tax tribunal has ruled against HMRC in a case brought by community charging operator Charge My Street, finding that a de-minimis clause in the VAT Act 1994 — capping "domestic" supplies at 1,000 kWh per month per customer — can qualify most neighbourhood charge points for the 5% reduced VAT rate rather than the 20% rate currently applied to public charging. The ruling is significant for drivers without off-street parking, though it also raises commercial complications, as many charge point operators have multi-year contracts priced on 20% VAT, and it opens the door to networks gaming the threshold by splitting sites or charger banks into separate "premises".ŠKODA OPENS €205M CTP BATTERY PLANT IN CZECHIAŠkoda has opened a €205 million (~$216M), 55,000 m² battery production facility at Mladá Boleslav, making it the Volkswagen Group's largest BEV battery system site and the first VW Group plant in Europe to manufacture cell-to-pack (CTP) systems at scale. The line produces over 1,100 battery systems per day — targeting up to 335,000 annually — and Škoda's switch to LFP cells has cut battery production costs by 30% compared to its previous MEB systems.MG CLOSES IN ON EUROPEAN FACTORY PLANMG has narrowed its European factory search to five countries, aiming to begin production by 2027 to circumvent the EU's 45% tariff on Chinese-built BEVs — a levy that caused MG's European BEV sales to fall 33% to 48,479 units last year, even as overall European sales rose 26% to 307,282 units in 2025. MG Europe head William Wang declared "it's time to build local," positioning the brand as a European marque rather than a Chinese import, as rivals BYD, Chery, and Leapmotor also race to establish European manufacturing footholds.CITROËN UPDATES C5 AIRCROSS PHEV FOR EURO 7Citroën has refreshed the C5 Aircross plug-in hybrid with a new 21.5 kWh battery (17.8 kWh usable), delivering up to 96 km (60 miles) of WLTP combined electric range — a 33% improvement over the outgoing model and ahead of rivals like the Peugeot 3008 Hybrid4 (69 km) and Ford Kuga PHEV (64 km). Priced in the €40–50k range, Citroën positions the updated C5 Aircross as one of the most tax-efficient family SUVs in the mainstream segment across EU markets while still targeting Euro 7 compliance.CANADIAN TRIAL PEGS ELECTRIC SEMI SAVINGS AT $157,126A real-world Canadian trial by FPInnovations' PIT Group and Transport Canada tracked two commercial fleets over 12 months and more than 200,000 km of Montreal-area operations, projecting savings of $157,126 per truck over six years — described as the most comprehensive dataset of its kind outside controlled demonstrations. The study compared the Freightliner eCascadia (BEV) directly against the diesel Cascadia and found that despite the electric truck's higher purchase price, higher-than-expected maintenance costs, and lower residual value, a six-year saving still emerged and may prove conservative.DENZA D9 ELECTRIC MPV ARRIVES IN AUSTRALIADenza has launched the D9 electric MPV in Australia from A$85,990, powered by a 103.3 kWh Blade Battery with 200 kW DC fast charging, 11 kW AC charging, and V2L capability across both variants, all built on BYD's e-Platform 3.0 with a cell-to-body battery structure. The seven-seat, three-row cabin targets the premium end of the people-mover segment with nappa leather, open-pore white ash wood trim, a 14-speaker Dynaudio sound system, adaptive suspension, and second-row captain's chairs offering over 900 mm of legroom, massage, and individual screens.CHINESE CAR BRANDS SPLIT US BUYERSA Cox Automotive survey of 802 prospective US car buyers found the country almost evenly divided — 38% would consider Chinese brands if available, 39% would not — with Gen Z showing notably higher openness at 69%. Chinese brands remain locked out of the US market by high tariffs and software regulations, but cost pressure is a key driver of interest, with 68% of open buyers expecting lower prices against an average new car price of $50,000, while BYD has already surpassed Tesla in European EV sales.

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1282: Honda leads the nation in fuel economy, destination charges quietly climb to $1,600 per vehicle, and a new Gallup report shows staffing shortages may be holding back customer experience across retail.If you had to guess the most fuel-efficient automaker in America, who would you pick? According to the EPA's newly released 2025 Automotive Trends Report, Honda just claimed the top spot—blending hybrids, smart engineering, and affordability into a winning formula.Honda posted a 31.0 mpg “real-world” fleet average for 2024—3.8 mpg higher than the industry average among full-line brands.The EPA ranking looks at automakers offering a complete mix of gas and electrified vehiclesHonda's efficiency dominance isn't new. The Civic topped the EPA's very first fuel economy rankings back in 1976.The average Honda transaction price in 2025 was $35,060—roughly $10,000 below the industry average.Honda also set a third straight annual electrified sales record, surpassing 400,000 units, led by CR-V, Accord, and Civic hybrids.There's a new line on the Monroney that's getting a second look: destination charges. These once-overlooked shipping fees are quietly adding billions to vehicle costs without technically raising MSRP.Buyers spent more than $26 billion on destination charges this year, an average of $1,600, according to Edmunds.Some increases are steep: F-150 fees jumped to $2,595, Tahoe rose to nearly $2,000; Toyota Sequoia's fee is up more than 50%.Automakers say the hikes reflect higher fuel, logistics, heavier SUVs and trucks—and now tariffs. Stellantis alone expects $1.9B in tariff costs in 2026.The charge is the same whether the vehicle traveled 10 miles or 1,000, and courts have ruled consumers shouldn't be surprised that it includes profit.John Morrill, Massachusetts dealer: “It's a way to raise prices that is, shall we say, less transparent to the consumer. Carmakers have raised them a lot, certainly faster than they've raised prices.”A new Gallup report highlights a growing gap in retail and beyond: employees feel deeply responsible for customer experience—but don't believe their companies can actually deliver on promises. And staffing cuts appear to be the biggest culprit.43% of workers strongly agree they feel responsible for customer experience (up from 38% last year), but only 23% believe their organization consistently delivers on its promises.Leadership is 10 points more confident than frontline employees that promises are being kept.Staffing is the top barrier to service, cited by 37% of workers—more than training, tools, or unclear standards combined.Today's show is brought to you by iPacket Value. From accurate MSRP validation to smarter merchandisJoin 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/

The Unnamed Automotive Podcast arrives this week with a double review of the 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9, a three-row EV that has our hosts offering completely different takes. Sami thinks the all-electric Korean crossover is too expensive, while Benjamin thinks it's plenty fancy. Sami feels it rode awfully in the snow, while Benjamin says it was surprisingly responsive. This many opposite takes means plenty of discussion, and we're here for it! Then Benjamin shares his road-trip-road-test of the 2026 Acura RDX, which he says was surprisingly good, though has one fatal flaw. Is it enough to deter him from recommending it? Thanks for listening!

CapeTalk’s Sara-Jayne Makwala King is joined on Weekend Breakfast by City Press motoring journalist Melinda Ferguson who reviews the latest cars on the road and keeps us up to date with motor industry news. This week’s car: Lexus RZ Weekend Breakfast with Sara-Jayne Makwala King is the weekend breakfast show on CapeTalk. This 3-hour morning programme is the perfect (and perky!) way to kickstart your weekend. Author and journalist Sara-Jayne Makwala-King spends 3 hours interviewing a variety of guests about all things cultural and entertaining. The team keeps an eye on weekend news stories, but the focus remains on relaxation and restoration. Favourites include the weekly wellness check-in on Saturdays at 7:35am and heartfelt chats during the Sunday 9am profile interview. Listen live on Primedia+ Saturdays and Sundays between 07:00 and 10:00am (SA Time) to Weekend Breakfast with Sara-Jayne Makwala-King broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/AgPbZi9 or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/j1EhEkZ Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today on CarEdge Live, Ray and Zach discuss the latest news from Ford. Tune in to learn more! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Why do we love the SUV so much, and why have a majority of people picked it over the humble estate car?Paddy Comyn, Head of Automotive Content and Communications with DoneDeal Cars, joins Seán to discuss.

In this episode, Scott Becker covers a market selloff, Lamborghini stepping back from electric SUVs, and Blue Owl Credit halting fund redemptions that signal potential stress in private credit.

In this episode, Scott Becker covers a market selloff, Lamborghini stepping back from electric SUVs, and Blue Owl Credit halting fund redemptions that signal potential stress in private credit.

CapeTalk’s Sara-Jayne Makwala King is joined on Weekend Breakfast by City Press motoring journalist Melinda Ferguson, who reviews the latest cars on the road and keeps us up to date with motor industry news. This week’s car: Volvo EX90 Weekend Breakfast with Sara-Jayne Makwala King is the weekend breakfast show on CapeTalk. This 3-hour morning programme is the perfect (and perky!) way to kickstart your weekend. Author and journalist Sara-Jayne Makwala-King spends 3 hours interviewing a variety of guests about all things cultural and entertaining. The team keeps an eye on weekend news stories, but the focus remains on relaxation and restoration. Favourites include the weekly wellness check-in on Saturdays at 7:35 am and heartfelt chats during the Sunday 9 am profile interview. Listen live on Primedia+ Saturdays and Sundays between 07:00 and 10:00 am (SA Time) to Weekend Breakfast with Sara-Jayne Makwala-King broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/AgPbZi9 or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/j1EhEkZ Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Compact SUVs are everywhere—but what happens when one completely surprises you?

Want a drive that actually feels like driving? We chart Texas routes that reward focus and finesse—FM 170 along Big Bend Ranch State Park with vast desert sight lines, the short-but-epic Palo Duro descent into red rock, Devil's Backbone across Hill Country ridges, the razor-tight Park Road 37 by Medina Lake, and the legendary Twisted Sisters with its switchbacks, blind crests, and breathtaking ranchland vistas. You'll get practical advice on when to go, what to watch, and how to prep so the only surprise is the view around the next bend.Then we flip the script and explore the wild side of automotive branding. Porsche's chef-level knives, Honda's quietly brilliant HondaJet, BMW and McLaren's high-end bicycles, Peugeot's heritage pepper mills, Toyota's loom-to-engine lineage, Mercedes' limited surfboards, and Bugatti's carbon fiber furniture show how engineering DNA travels from test tracks to kitchens, oceans, and living rooms. We dig into why these products make strategic sense—and where they're pure theater for the superfan.To ground it all, we share a hands-on review of the Lexus RX 450h Plus. The PHEV powertrain delivers smooth, satisfying acceleration and real-world efficiency, wrapped in a distinctive design that stands out from copycat SUVs. Inside, the minimalist cabin feels premium and calm, though we still want a few more physical controls for eyes-up driving. With up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity, thoughtful packaging, and that excellent Mark Levinson sound, the RX 450h Plus competes credibly with the GLE and X5—especially if your routine fits the electric range sweet spot.If you're mapping a Hill Country loop, chasing bluebonnets, or just curious why a car brand would build a pepper mill, this episode brings the roads, the rationale, and the road test. Enjoyed the ride? Follow, rate, and share the show with a friend who needs a new route or a new knife—then tell us which Texas road is calling your name.Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at info@inwheeltime.com

Toshio Meronek's parents met at a bar. In this episode, meet and get to know Toshio. Today, they do Sad Francisco, a really fucking amazing project that reports on and holds truth to power around here. I first became aware of Sad Francisco a few years ago and right away, I was struck by the deep reporting on and understanding of the many complex relationships and goings on in San Francisco and The Bay. And so I sat down with my fellow podcaster to get to know the human behind those efforts. Toshio's story starts with their parents. That bar where they met was in Los Angeles. Shortly after meeting, the couple moved to Germany, where Toshio's dad had found work at a major German tech company. But after getting pregnant with Toshio, the young couple came back to Southern California—Orange County to be exact, where Toshio was born. Some of Toshio's earliest memories involve not really digging that infamous SoCal heat. We'll get into this more later in Part 1, but Toshio picked Portland for college in part because of its more temperate, albeit wetter, climate. Born in 1982, Toshio did most of their growing up in the Nineties. When I ask them what kinds of things they were into as a kid, they immediately say, "zines." Making zines, collecting zines, living and breathing zines. We hop on a short sidebar about Riot Grrrl, a Nineties feminist punk-adjacent movement that seeped into both our lives at different points—mine early in the decade, and Toshio's toward the end of the Nineties. Riot Grrrl arrived in the typically and generally conservative Orange County later than a lot of other parts of the country and the world. But arrive it did, and it had an outsize impact on Toshio's young life. Zines were huge in that subculture, too. To expound on their interests as a kid, Toshio was generally into media, curious about how others live, and also sci-fi and fantasy (think D&D). Toshio was around 13 or 14 when they started writing their own zines. Here we go on a sidebar about one of my favorite pet topics—Kinko's (RIP). IYKYK. Eventually, Toshio eschewed the ubiquitous copy+print shop and had their zines printed on newsprint paper. It was part of a deliberate attempt to appear legitimate, more like "the establishment," something I find fascinating. They wanted people to take them seriously, and that just makes a lot of damn sense. Music was very much a part of the Riot Grrrl movement Punk rock music to be specific. And Toshio's early publications covered that. In fact, topics ran the gamut from music and politics to culture and community. We turn to the topic of Toshio's surroundings when they were a teenager. Record stores, zine shops, cafes that also had live music. They dabbled in the SoCal rave scene as well. They settled into the Candy Kids rave subculture and talk a little about that. There's another short sidebar where we talk about how amazing youth activism is, and how much we always need it. As much as young Toshio was part of these communities and subcultures, they also describe this time in terms of being a loner. They also experienced a lack of self-confidence, lots of acne, therapy to work through their being Japanese and white, or hafu (another term for "hapa"), being gay. Though Toshio has grown past those struggles, they consider them powerfully formative. Then came time to relocate and go to college. Besides Portland having more desirable weather, Toshio chose it in part because of the Northwest's grunge legacy. College life started right around 9/11, and they started going to protests. Lots of protests. College lasted four years, and after that, Toshio stayed behind in Portland. They got work at a magazine covering ecology for K–12 kids. They were also in bands (they play guitar, ish, sing, and play tambourine). "It felt like everybody was in an alt-country band," they say. And then, in 2006, they left Portland for … San Francisco. An editing job brought Toshio here. The publication was a so-called "light-green living" outfit, targeted, as it said, to yoga moms who drive their hybrid SUVs to Whole Foods. I ask Toshio if the job was editing words, and then mention that it's been my profession for a long-ass time. And we go on a sidebar about how important the work is. I'll add that everyone (including editors!) needs an editor. Sorry (not sorry), AI. That leads to yet another sidebar (can you tell we're both podcasters?)—this one from Toshio about the nature of the "yoga mom" publication. They grew disillusioned with their work there, suffice to say. We end Part 1 with Toshio's early memories of visiting San Francisco, before they moved here. They involve the older men who used to be found daily playing chess off Powell and Market. Check back Thursday for Part 2 with Toshio Meronek. We recorded this episode at Toshio's home at the confluence of The Transgender District, Tenderloin, UN Plaza, and Civic Center in January 2026. Photography by Jeff Hunt

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1270: Ford floats ideas to counter China's EV push, Detroit rethinks sedans as affordability pressures rise and Amazon proves even tech giants can't crack physical retail that easily.As Chinese automakers creep closer to U.S. soil, Ford CEO Jim Farley reportedly discussed a framework that would allow Chinese brands to build cars in America—through U.S.-controlled joint ventures. The idea? Compete without getting steamrolled.Farley discussed U.S.-majority joint ventures with Trump cabinet officials at the Detroit Auto Show.The structure would allow Chinese automakers to build in the U.S., sharing profits and tech with American partners.Trump recently said he'd be open to Chinese companies building plants and hiring Americans.GM opposes any Chinese entry, warning of lost market share and supplier disruption.New polling from the north shows that Canadian sentiment toward Chinese-built EVs has shifted sharply: 53% now say it wouldn't affect their purchase decision and 15% say they'd be more likely to buy—compared to 2024 when 61% said they were less likely to consider one.After years of betting big on SUVs and trucks, Detroit may be eyeing a return to sedans as affordability pressures mount.GM, Ford and Stellantis are all exploring affordable sedan options, including hybrids priced under $30,000.Passenger cars now make up just 18% of U.S. sales, down from 50% fifteen years agoAs Detroit exited sedans, Toyota's share of the U.S. sedan market jumped from 12% to 22%Dealers say losing sedans cost them entry-level buyers who later would've traded up to higher-margin SUVs and trucks.“If somebody could build an affordable sedan, it would sell,” said dealer Adam Lee. “We have made these cars so expensive that nobody can afford them.”Amazon is shutting down its Amazon Go and Fresh stores, admitting it couldn't crack the economics of brick-and-mortar grocery. Despite world-class logistics and tech, the company discovered what operators already know: physical retail is a grind.Amazon will close Go and Fresh locations after failing to build a scalable, profitable grocery model.Grocery is attractive because it's high-frequency and data-rich—fuel for Amazon's $21B ad business, but shoppers prioritize price, value, and location over tech like “Just Walk Out.”“Physical grocery is just brutally operational,” said Professor Andy Tsay, calling the margins “thin and unforgiving.”Today's show is brought to you by ESi-Q. ESi-Q measures employee satisfaction and provides actionable insight into what's driving employee 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/

The show starts with a review of the 2026 Nissan Leaf, which Benjamin tested out in the most wintery of conditions. How did the already limited range keep up with the low temperatures? And what about its handling of the snowy roads? Benjamin shares his experiences and more in this somewhat affordable EV. Then Sami tests out one of the bigger SUVs out there, the 2025 Ford Expedition Tremor. Able to haul 8 passengers and deal with off roading, this big truck-based family hauler has some cool new tech to discuss, and some worth nitpicking. Finally the show ends on a discussion about Mazdas new approach to their cars, namely cost cutting. Are they the only ones? Thanks for listening!

CapeTalk’s Sara-Jayne Makwala King is joined on Weekend Breakfast by City Press motoring journalist Melinda Ferguson who reviews the latest cars on the road and keeps us up to date with motor industry news. This week’s car: Changan Alsvin sedan, CS75 Pro SUV. Weekend Breakfast with Sara-Jayne Makwala King is the weekend breakfast show on CapeTalk. This 3-hour morning programme is the perfect (and perky!) way to kickstart your weekend. Author and journalist Sara-Jayne Makwala-King spends 3 hours interviewing a variety of guests about all things cultural and entertaining. The team keeps an eye on weekend news stories, but the focus remains on relaxation and restoration. Favourites include the weekly wellness check-in on Saturdays at 7:35am and heartfelt chats during the Sunday 9am profile interview. Listen live on Primedia+ Saturdays and Sundays between 07:00 and 10:00am (SA Time) to Weekend Breakfast with Sara-Jayne Makwala-King broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/AgPbZi9 or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/j1EhEkZ Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1267: CarMax taps a hospitality CEO to sharpen its digital edge, Toyota makes a disciplined move into three-row EVs with the Highlander name, and AI-generated resumes are creating new hiring headaches for retailers and operators. Show Notes with links: CarMax brings in a hospitality heavyweight to steer its turnaround. The nation's largest used-car retailer has tapped former InterContinental Hotels Group CEO Keith Barr to lead the charge as sales stall and Carvana gains ground. His mission: sharpen digital retail and squeeze costs.Barr takes over in March, replacing Bill Nash amid stagnant sales and rising competition from Carvana.CarMax operates 250+ stores covering 85% of the U.S., but retail volumes fell 8% last quarter.The focus: improve online conversion, streamline vehicle acquisition and reconditioning costs.Analysts say CarMax's omnichannel model may be confusing buyers and hurting digital sales.Barr is confident: “All those foundational pieces are there… we're going to sell more cars and continue to create more value for shareholders.”Toyota is making a calculated move into EVs with the Highlander EV—on its own terms. By putting the Highlander name on a three-row electric SUV, the company signals a strategic shift rooted in discipline, profitability, and market timing rather than rapid expansion.Toyota preserved margins while competitors absorbed heavy EV losses, maintaining flexibility as demand cooled.It's entering the most profitable U.S. segment—three-row midsize SUVs—with a name buyers already trust.Domestic production in Kentucky reduces tariff exposure and political risk while strengthening its U.S. footprint.Leadership under CEO Koji Sato appears focused on controlled scale and sustainable growth.AI may be speeding up hiring—but it's also muddying the truth. New survey data shows a growing disconnect between what candidates claim on resumes and what they can actually do on the job, with AI tools making embellishment easier than ever.80% of hiring managers say resumes often don't match real-world skills; 34% say it happens “all the time” or “often.”Retail examples include POS “experts” who couldn't navigate the system and candidates who folded instantly in negotiation role-play.86% of hiring leaders believe AI makes it too easy to exaggerate skills; 42% see it as a serious hiring risk.Meanwhile, 80% of hiring managers dislike AI-generated resumes, and over half are less likely to hire obvious AI users.As Express CEO Bob Funk Jr. put it: “Integrity is still a competitive advantage.”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/

Think Mardi Gras begins and ends on Bourbon Street? We hit the road to map the best celebrations across Texas—Galveston's towering floats and nighttime crowds, Beaumont's growing footprint with room for families, Texas City's daytime routes, Seguin's golf cart charm, and San Antonio's Fiesta Texas makeover that turns the whole park purple, green, and gold. We also spotlight the small-town sparkle of Jefferson and Alvin, then head waterside for Kema, where lit-up boats parade past the boardwalk and the vibe walks the line between festive and family-friendly.Road trips need the right ride, so we put real miles on the 2026 Mazda CX-50 Meridian Edition. Expect crisp styling, an interior that puts the driver in command, and standout handling that outperforms most compact SUVs. The 2.5-liter turbo brings usable power and confidence without drama, though the flat roof rack looks overbuilt and the infotainment system needs a rethink. We share observed mpg, pricing context, and how it stacks up against segment staples like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Nissan Rogue so you can decide what matters most: grip, comfort, or fuel spend.To cap it off, we nerd out on muscle car station wagons that should have been factory legends. From Ford Torino and Chevy Chevelle cousins to Oldsmobile Vista Cruiser, Pontiac Tempest, and Dodge Coronet platforms, we break down why these long-roof builds make the perfect blend of nostalgia, utility, and torque. Whether you're planning a family-friendly parade crawl or sketching your dream resto-mod wagon, this ride has you covered with routes, reviews, and a little righteous rumble.If you enjoy the show, follow, rate, and share it with a friend who loves parades, road trips, or great cars—and tell us which Texas Mardi Gras stop you're hitting next.Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas Gulf Coast Auto ShieldPaint protection, tint, and more!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.---- ----- Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time? In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy! Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.----- -----Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTimeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltimehttps://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTimeFor more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at info@inwheeltime.com

Benjamin reviews the 2026 GMC Terrain Denali, a model we haven't even thought about since 2021! It's got good looks, plenty of equipment and a decent price... but why is Sami so annoyed by it? Maybe it has something to do with his ancient phone... Then Sami reviews the 2026 Volvo XC60, a car the guys haven't reviewed since 2022! It has a mild hybrid system, a punchy turbo-four and decent looks, so Sami and Benjamin get to the bottom of why this car has been overshadowed by other choices in the segment. That's it for this week, thanks for listening!

It's Friday and time for the weekend... but why are the weekend's so chaotic?!? It's supposed to be the resting time, but with little kids in the house you're lucky if you can get a 5 minute nap in. This weekend, Kelly is headed to the Chicago auto show and debating on doing a viral trend on the way there. Is it cute or thirsty?  Speaking of social media, Kelly and Lizz have some new Fast Lane Philosophies to do with social media. This might influence you to take some time off social media. But not too much time away from the Car Mom of course. Could it be your new micro-hobby? Kelly is about to make giving up sugar for lent her new micro-hobby! Will she make it?  A listener sent a message asking for advice on two row SUVs and Kelly also has more advice on where to get your kids clothes. In Industry News, they speculate on what could be announced at the Chicago auto show, the Santa Fe redesign and which car companies are spending on commercials for the big game on Sunday. Most importantly, what are Kelly and Lizz going to be eating during the Super Bowl? They break down their menu for you! 

Let me ask you something.   If the future is electric… why does every new vehicle rolling into dealerships look tougher, bigger, and more ready for adventure than ever?   That contradiction isn't an accident.   In this episode, I walk through the strange reality of today's auto industry — where rugged SUVs and overlanding rigs are actually helping fund the electric future everyone keeps talking about.   We'll talk about:   Why big SUVs make the kind of money EVs still can't How the overlanding trend is more about possibility than actual off-roading Why manufacturers finally stopped letting the aftermarket take all the profit How modern safety tech makes these bigger vehicles work for real families And why driver-assist systems are less about self-driving and more about trust and fatigue     This isn't a tech lecture or an auto show recap. It's a look at how the industry is really surviving the transition — and why the road to electrification looks a lot more rugged than you might expect.   It's a strange time to be a car buyer. And a fascinating time to connect the dots.   Thanks for listening.

Shopping for a new car? Consumer Reports' Top Picks highlight the best cars, SUVs, and trucks you can buy right now—standouts for performance, reliability, owner satisfaction, and safety. In this episode, we break down this year's winners across key segments, from sedans and small SUVs to three-row SUVs, featuring brands like Toyota, Honda, Ford, Tesla, BMW, Lexus, and Subaru.     SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 - Introduction 00:15 - 2026 Top Picks 23:57 - Safety Verdict 29:27 - Question: What's the best way to buy a car located too far away to inspect in person?     ----------------------------------  Best Cars of 2026 — CR Top Picks https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/best-cars-of-the-year-10-top-picks-of-2025-a1930591024/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Safety Verdict https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/safety-guide/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   The Safest Cars You Can Buy Right Now https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/the-safest-cars-you-can-buy-right-now-a6584555585/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Which Brands Make the Best Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   How Car Brands Stack Up On Lifetime Repair Cost https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/the-cost-of-car-ownership-a1854979198/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   10 Best SUVs You Can Buy Right Now https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/10-best-suvs-you-can-buy-right-now-a8518508556/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Consumerreports.org/Talkingcars https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/talking-cars-podcast-archive-a1439738009/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   The Weekly Cars Newsletter: Shop Smarter. Drive Smarter. https://www.consumerreports.org/email-newsletters/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Lock in savings with a better way to buy a car. https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-prices-build-buy-service/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

Shopping for a new car? Consumer Reports' Top Picks highlight the best cars, SUVs, and trucks you can buy right now—standouts for performance, reliability, owner satisfaction, and safety. In this episode, we break down this year's winners across key segments, from sedans and small SUVs to three-row SUVs, featuring brands like Toyota, Honda, Ford, Tesla, BMW, Lexus, and Subaru.     SHOW NOTES ----------------------------------- 00:00 - Introduction 00:15 - 2026 Top Picks 23:57 - Safety Verdict 29:27 - Question: What's the best way to buy a car located too far away to inspect in person?     ----------------------------------  Best Cars of 2026 — CR Top Picks https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/best-cars-of-the-year-10-top-picks-of-2025-a1930591024/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Safety Verdict https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/safety-guide/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   The Safest Cars You Can Buy Right Now https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/the-safest-cars-you-can-buy-right-now-a6584555585/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Which Brands Make the Best Cars? https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/which-car-brands-make-the-best-vehicles-a6159221985/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   How Car Brands Stack Up On Lifetime Repair Cost https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-maintenance/the-cost-of-car-ownership-a1854979198/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   10 Best SUVs You Can Buy Right Now https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/suvs/10-best-suvs-you-can-buy-right-now-a8518508556/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Consumerreports.org/Talkingcars https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/cars-driving/talking-cars-podcast-archive-a1439738009/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   The Weekly Cars Newsletter: Shop Smarter. Drive Smarter. https://www.consumerreports.org/email-newsletters/cars/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT   Lock in savings with a better way to buy a car. https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-prices-build-buy-service/?EXTKEY=YSOCIAL_YT

The Unnamed Automotive Podcast welcomes a fun guest and friend to this weeks episode, DoubleClutch.ca founder Adi Desai, who is here to talk about his eclectic collection of cars and fun stories about finding them. Is an unreliable, expensive to repair car still good if it's a fun, unique driving experience? Are your favorite video-game cover cars as good as you remember them when you transfer them from the digital world to the real one? Then Benjamin and Sami review the 2026 Hyundai Palisade, which has recieved a significant redesign this year with a new off-road trim and hybrid powertrain that injects new life into the three-row SUV. Finally we try to answer a reader question about Hemi V8s and the future of the Dodge Charger. Thanks for listening!

Sports cars comprise around 1% of new car sales these days, sadly. We discuss, and Steve-0 and our trauma surgeon Dr Stephan Moran pick our five favorite sports cars of all time.Trauma surgeon safety segment: For many years, Dr Moran has been advocating for better crash dummies ("They should have 20 different size and gender dummies lined up, and the tester can pick any one and put it into a car and run the test", is what he's been saying). Chinese manufacturer Geely has built a safety testing facility that can test 60 crash dummies, so finally someone out there has been paying attention and making cars safer through better crash testing. Dr Moran discusses.Stephan spots an insane Honda Accord. Us old guys think it's Fugly, but presumably "da kids" love it.Steve-0 gets into 2025 new car sales data and draws some conclusions: big pickups rule, compact crossovers and big SUVs are selling like crazy, BEVs are fading fast, and BMW is dominating the luxury market (with Lexus close behind).#carsoncallpodcast #automobile #traumasurgeonsafety #sportscar #bmw #lexus

The biggest difference between wealthy business owners and everyone else isn't how much they make, it's how they structure their spending.In this episode of Life Changing Money, Barbara breaks down how strategic spending, not last-minute scrambling, is what actually creates massive tax savings and long-term wealth. From writing off luxury vehicles like G-Wagons to turning girls' trips into legitimate business deductions, this episode pulls back the curtain on the strategies high earners use all year long (not just in April).You'll also learn how business owners legally write off domestic and international trips including retreats, girls' weekends, wine trips, wellness getaways, masterminds, and even milestone birthday trips. Barbara explains the 50% rule for domestic travel, the 75% rule for international trips, and how travel days, meetings, photoshoots, content creation, and board meetings all count.If you want 2026 to be the year you stop overpaying in taxes and start playing the game the wealthy already understand, this episode is a must-listen.Tune in to hear:Why income level has nothing to do with who builds real wealthHow wealthy business owners plan tax strategies all year — not in AprilWhy online business owners absolutely qualify for business vehiclesThe truth about mileage vs. actual vehicle expensesHow bonus depreciation works for vehicles over 6,000 poundsWhy G-Wagons, Escalades, trucks, and luxury SUVs are popular tax toolsThe five-year rule that lets you move a business car to personal use tax-freeHow financing a vehicle doesn't stop you from writing off 100% of itHow to legally write off domestic trips using the 50% ruleHow international trips qualify with the 75% business-use ruleWhy travel days automatically count as business daysHow photoshoots, meetings, and content days turn trips into deductionsHow girls' trips, wine weekends, and wellness retreats can be written offWhy wealthy entrepreneurs see spending as strategy — not splurgingHow to stop relying on your CPA and start proactively saving on taxesJoin the Write Off Your Life Masterclass:How To Get Involved:Life-Changing Money is a podcast all about money. We share stories of how money has impacted and radically changed the lives of others—and how it can do the same for you.Your host, Barbara Schreihans (pronounced ShREE-hands) is the founder and CEO of Your Tax Coach, and the creator of the Write Off Your Life Course. She is a top tax strategist, business coach, and expert in helping business owners and high-net-worth individuals save millions in taxes while increasing profits.When she's not leading her team, coaching clients, or dreaming up new goals for her company, you can find her drinking coffee, hanging out with her family, and traveling the world.Grab a cup of coffee and become inspired as we hear from those who have overcome and are overcoming their self-limiting beliefs and money mindsets!Do you have a burning question that you'd love to hear answered on a future show?Please email it to: podcast@yourtaxcoach.bizSign Up For Our NewsletterLife Changing Money PodcastGet Tax Help!

Hey everybody, welcome to the RV Podcast News Edition for Monday, January 19, 2026. I'm Mike Wendland.This is where we cut through the noise and bring you what's really happening right now in the RV lifestyle and the RV industry. Five stories this week, and taken together they paint a clear picture.The RV world is not just changing. It is restructuring.Let's get started.STORY 1. TAMPA SUPERSHOW AND THE MEGA-DEALERS GET EVEN BIGGERThe Florida RV SuperShow wrapped up this weekend in Tampa, and once again it was the Super Bowl of RVing. Huge crowds, massive inventory, and a lot of signals about where the industry thinks things are headed.One number really stood out.Lazydays RV, now operating as Lazydays RV powered by Campers Inn, announced it brought more than 450 RVs to the show. Four hundred and fifty units on the grounds. There were over 1,300 new models here. That means Lazydays, if it really bought that many uits - I didnt count them - accounted for a third of the total new units on display.That is more than confidence. That is making a statement and claiming market power.It highlights how the biggest RV chains keep getting bigger. Camping World, General RV, Blue Compass, and Campers Inn have all been aggressively buying up smaller dealerships across the country.In many markets, those big names now sit next to each other, or even across the street from one another.That kind of saturation creates brutal competition and raises a serious question. How many stores can a market really support?What we kept hearing in Tampa is that 2026 may be the year underperforming locations start quietly closing.We already saw a preview late in 2025 when Camping World abruptly shut down its store in Escanaba, Michigan.For shoppers, this environment cuts both ways. There is more inventory and more choice, but dealers are under pressure to move aging stock. That pressure can work in your favor, if you negotiate wisely.STORY 2. INFLUENCER FATIGUE. THE MARKETING MODEL IS BREAKING DOWNAnother major theme at the Tampa show had nothing to do with floorplans.Influencer fatigue.By our count, there are now at least 500 so-called RV influencers. Probably more. Anyone with a cellphone camera can claim the title, and many have.For years, manufacturers poured money, free gear, and perks into this system.But saturation has changed everything.Behind the scenes, RV manufacturers and marketing teams are saying the influencer model no longer delivers like it once did. They report being flooded with demands for free RVs, guaranteed commissions, and paid travel just to show up.There are clear signs of a pullback.Winnebago has ended relationships with some influencers. Keystone RV has done the same.The issue is trust. When every product is “the best ever,” audiences stop believing any of it.I overheard it firsthand in Tampa. Outside the influencer building, one man said, “I'd be an influencer too if they gave me free stuff. But since that hasn't happened, I don't trust what any of them say. Free stuff and money can buy anything.”That comment captures the problem perfectly.STORY 3. TARIFFS ARE HAMMERING MANUFACTURERS, AND ROADTREK MAY BE THE HARDEST HITAnother major topic of quiet but intense conversation at the SuperShow was tariffs and the damage they are doing to certain RV manufacturers.Start with Europe.The Italian manufacturer Wingamm has been trying to bring compact Class B style motorhomes into the U.S. market for at least the last four years. At one point, the tariff hit on a Wingamm imported from Italy was estimated at roughly $70,000.That nearly killed the effort.The tariff has since been restructured into a fixed import fee announced in mid-2025, about $9,500 on the Oasi 540.1 and roughly $11,100 on other models. Even so, Wingamm has now turned to crowdfunding to help finance its U.S. market entry.Canada is being hit even harder.Many popular Class B vans sold in the U.S. are built in Canada. Tariffs stack up at every step.A prime example is Leisure Travel Vans.Their Unity models use Mercedes Sprinter chassis and major components built in Germany, shipped to Canada, assembled there, and then exported to the United States. Tariffs apply to the chassis, the imported parts, and the finished vehicle.Industry sources say tariffs alone are adding at least $20,000 to the price of a Leisure Travel Vans motorhome. The new Mercedes Benz model that introduced at the show last week was sticker shock on steroids. It's show price was $272,000. For a B + van. Over a quarter of a million dollars! Yikes. And then there's Class B campervan maker Roadtrek, made in Ontario.Roadtrek's situation may be the most severe.The company has struggled since 2019, following a massive financial scandal involving its previous owners that ended in bankruptcy. Roadtrek is currently owned by a French RV company that took control as part of that restructuring.Since then, Roadtrek has faced repeated Mercedes Sprinter chassis shortages, production disruptions, a weak market, and the loss of key personnel.Most recently, Roadtrek lost its longtime National Sales Manager, Mike Williams, widely known across the industry and to customers as “Canada Mike.” He has now joined Sunshine State RVs in Gainesville, Florida, where some are already calling him “Florida Mike.”That is a significant loss of leadership and visibility for the brand.At Tampa, the buzz was everywhere. Roadtrek is struggling badly, and many insiders believe the company may be for sale again. Nothing official, but the talk was constant and came from dealers, current employees,  and industry veterans.Tariffs are a huge reason for all of this pressure.STORY 4. MORE CONSOLIDATION, MIDWEST AUTOMOTIVE DESIGN LIKELY TO BE SOLDAnd speaking of major brands being in play, we're hearing strong indications of another significant acquisition.Multiple sources tell us that Midwest Automotive Design, a high-end builder of luxury Class B motorhomes on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter platform, is about to be sold.The buyer, according to what we're hearing, is Alliance RV.Alliance RV was founded in 2019 by industry veterans Ryan and Coley Brady and is best known for its Paradigm line of luxury fifth wheels. The company has built a reputation for high-quality construction and strong customer loyalty.Midwest Automotive Design is a powerhouse in the luxury van segment. It is known for models like the Passage and Luxe Cruiser and has also built private-label vans for Ultimate Toys, Chinook, Holiday Rambler, Fleetwood, and American Coach under the REV Group umbrella.This is not a small boutique operation.If confirmed, this move would signal Alliance's expansion beyond towables into the premium motorized market.It reinforces the larger pattern. The RV industry is entering a major consolidation phase, with strong operators positioning themselves to acquire respected niche brands as costs rise and margins tighten.STORY 5. ZION NATIONAL PARK WILL RESTRICT LARGE RVS ON A KEY ROUTENow an important heads-up for anyone planning a Southwest RV trip.Zion National Park has announced a major change taking effect June 7, 2026.Large vehicles will no longer be allowed to travel through the Zion–Mount Carmel Highway, including the famous tunnel.Vehicles longer than about thirty-five feet, wider than seven feet ten inches, taller than eleven feet four inches, or weighing more than fifty thousand pounds will be prohibited. The long-standing escort system for oversized vehicles is being eliminated.The Park Service says the road was never designed for modern RVs and that safety concerns drove the decision.You can still visit Zion, but many large motorhomes and fifth wheels will need alternate routes or off-site parking.This is a major planning issue for RVers heading west.BONUS STORY. HONDA OFFICIALLY ENTERS THE RV SPACE WITH A LIGHTWEIGHT TRAILERAnd here's one of those moments when we get to say, we told you so. This is a BONUS STORY THIS WEEK.Two episodes ago, we reported that Honda was quietly working on something big in the RV space. Now it's official.Honda has unveiled the Base Station Prototype, an all-new lightweight travel trailer designed by Honda engineers at the company's U.S. research and development centers in Los Angeles and Ohio.This is not a rebadged camper. Honda says the Base Station Prototype brings segment-first innovations that only Honda can deliver.The stated goal is to “democratize outdoor adventures.” In plain English, make RVing accessible to more people.Honda designed the Base Station to be towed by many of the most popular vehicles in America, including crossovers like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, as well as electric vehicles such as the Honda Prologue and Honda's upcoming 0-Series SUV.That is a major shift.Most lightweight trailers still require full-size trucks or large SUVs. Honda is aiming directly at the millions of households that already own smaller vehicles and have been priced out of RV ownership.Honda also says the Base Station will remain competitively priced in the lightweight travel trailer segment, signaling this is not just a concept vehicle but a serious market entry.If Honda follows through, this could reshape the entry-level RV market in a very big way.And as soon as we can see one in person, you know we'll bring you a full report.CLOSINGAlright. That's this week's RV News Edition of the RV Podcast. For links, documents, and deeper background on every story we covered today, be sure to check the show notes on our website at RVPodcast.com. That's our central hub for everything we do, podcasts, blogs, videos, and our community.You can also leave us a voice message, comment, question, or tip right there on the site. We read them all, and many of them help shape future episodes.And a quick reminder that on February 5, I'll be hosting a live, interactive RV Travel Planning Workshop designed to help you plan smarter trips, avoid costly mistakes, and travel with confidence. You'll find all the details and registration information at RVPodcast.com/workshop.That's your RV Podcast Monday News Edition for Jan. 19, 2026. We'll be back Wednesday with our Stories from the Road RV Podcast. I'm Mike Wendland. Thanks for listening, and until next time, have fun, make friends, and find adventure. Happy Trails.Sources and Further Reading2026 Florida RV SuperShow and Dealer ConsolidationLazydays by Campers Inn Brings Over 450 RVs to Tampa Showhttps://rv-pro.com/news/lazydays-by-campers-inn-brings-over-450-rvs-to-tampa-show/Florida RV Trade Association, Official 2026 Florida RV SuperShow Pagehttps://www.frvta.org/show/florida-rv-supershow/Influencer Fatigue and RV Marketing ShiftWinnebago Industries Corporate News and Investor Updateshttps://investor.winnebagoind.com/Keystone RV Company Official Sitehttps://www.keystonerv.com/Tariffs and Cross-Border RV Industry ImpactRV Dealers Association of Canada Update on Counter Tariffshttps://rvbusiness.com/rvda-canada-gives-update-on-counter-tariffs-on-u-s-rvs/How Tariffs Could Impact the RV Industryhttps://www.rv.com/rv/how-tariffs-could-impact-the-rv-industry/Canadian RV Association Statement on U.S.–Canada Tariff Impacthttps://www.rvnews.com/crva-issues-update-on-u-s-canada-tariff-impact/Class B Forum Discussion on Canadian Tariffshttps://www.classbforum.com/threads/canadian-tariffs.654811/Wingamm European Import TariffsWingamm Official Websitehttps://wingamm.com/Wingamm Oasi 540.1 Model Pagehttps://wingamm.com/en/oasi-540-1/Invest in W Motorhome Sales North America (equity crowdfunding on StartEngine)https://www.startengine.com/offering/wmotorhomeLeisure Travel Vans Tariff ExposureLeisure Travel Vans Official Websitehttps://leisurevans.com/Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Global Production Informationhttps://www.mbvans.com/en/sprinter/Roadtrek Company BackgroundCourt-Ordered Receivership for Erwin Hymer Group North America (which included Roadtrek)https://rvldealernews.com/the-court-appointed-receivership-auction-of-erwin-hymer-group-north-america-will-begin-on-tuesday-july-16-and-continue-until-friday-july-19-2019/How Rapido Group Plotted the Rebirth of Roadtrek https://rv-pro.com/features/how-rapido-plotted-rebirth-roadtrek/ Roadtrek Motorhomes Official Websitehttps://roadtrek.com/Alliance RV and Midwest Automotive Design PurchasAlliance RV Official Websitehttps://www.alliancerv.com/Midwest Automotive Design Official Websitehttps://midwestautomotivedesign.com/Midwest Automotive Design About Us Pagehttps://www.midwestautomotivedesign.com/about-us/Midwest Automotive Design Luxe Cruiser Modelhttps://www.midwestautomotivedesign.com/luxury-vans/luxe-cruiser/REV Group Brand Portfoliohttps://www.revgroup.com/our-brands/Zion National Park Large RV RestrictionsZion National Park to Restrict Large Vehicles on Zion–Mount Carmel Highway Beginning June 7, 2026https://www.nationalparkstraveler.org/2026/01/zion-national-park-restrict-large-vehicles-traveling-zion-mt-carmel-highwayZion to Ban Most Large RVs on Mount Carmel Highwayhttps://www.thetraveler.org/zion-to-ban-most-large-rvs-on-mount-carmel-highway-june-7-2026/Honda Enters the RV Market with the Base Station PrototypeHonda Press Release, Honda Unveils Base Station Prototypehttps://hondanews.com/en-US/honda-automobiles/releases/honda-unveils-base-station-prototype-a-lightweight-towable-travel-trailer-with-modular-design-smart-technology-clever-packaging-to-democratize-campingRV Business, Honda Unveils Prototype Base Station Lightweight Camperhttps://rvbusiness.com/honda-unveils-prototype-base-station-lightweight-camper/The Drive, Honda's Secret Project, A Futuristic Camper Trailer You Can Tow With a CR-Vhttps://www.thedrive.com/news/hondas-secret-project-a-futuristic-camper-trailer-you-can-tow-with-a-cr-v

Aaron McIntire breaks down President Trump's surprise claim that killings and planned executions in Iran have stopped, Iran's foreign minister's warning to Trump, the FBI raid on a Washington Post reporter's home, the ICE agent's name in the Renee Goode shooting and her father-in-law's gracious response, deportations under Tom Homan, Oprah's latest obesity explanation, resumed federal funding to Planned Parenthood, a doctor's refusal to answer if men can get pregnant, deficit reduction tied to tariffs, Peter Navarro on the Trump economic agenda, and listener poll results on whether the economy feels better one year into the second Trump term.   A.M. Update, Iran protests, regime weakness, executions halted, Trump Iran comments, FBI raid Washington Post, Renee Goode shooting, ICE agent, deportations 2026, Tom Homan, Oprah obesity, GLP-1 drugs, Planned Parenthood funding, gender ideology Senate hearing, Josh Hawley, deficit reduction, tariffs revenue, Peter Navarro, Trump economy, housing bubble, consumer prices