MotorTrend Channel

Reimagining Transportation: Coding the Car 2.0

This MotorTrend video delves into the transformative shift towards Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs), particularly highlighting China's rapid adva... morencements and unique approach. The narrative emphasizes how cars are evolving from mere transportation into intelligent, upgradeable robotic platforms, driven by AI, high-performance chipsets, and seamless integration with digital ecosystems. The review points out the significant market share gains by Chinese brands, attributing it to their focus on technology and rapid adoption of EVs and PHEVs, supported by government initiatives. Key takeaways include the enhanced in-cabin experience, the growing importance of AI in vehicle design and functionality, and the potential for cars to become mobile living spaces. While acknowledging the challenges of globalization and market-specific customization, the video underscores that the future of automotive is undeniably electric, connected, and software-driven, with AI imbuing vehicles with a new sense of 'soul' and personalized interaction. less

Sam Abuelsamid of Guidehouse Insights on Electrification, Cybertruck's Viral Fail, & OEM Survival

This episode of 'The Inevitable' podcast features an insightful discussion with Sam Abuelsamid of Guidehouse Insights, focusing on the evolv... moreing landscape of electric vehicles and automotive technology. Abuelsamid addresses common misconceptions about EV battery longevity, emphasizing that modern EV batteries, with proper thermal management, can last the life of the vehicle with minimal degradation, unlike consumer electronics. He highlights the charging infrastructure challenges, particularly the inconsistencies and reliability issues encountered even in areas with seemingly good coverage, and discusses the potential benefits and hurdles of the NACS standard. A significant portion of the conversation delves into the Tesla Cybertruck, with Abuelsamid analyzing the viral WhistlinDiesel durability test. He posits that the "fail" was likely due to damage to the large "mega casting" during the test, underscoring the repairability concerns associated with such manufacturing techniques and their potential impact on insurance premiums. He also raises safety concerns regarding the Cybertruck's sharp edges and their implications for pedestrian impact. The discussion extends to the broader automotive industry, touching upon the shift towards Software-Defined Vehicles (SDVs), the challenges faced by legacy automakers, and the potential for Chinese EVs in the US market. less

2024 Pebble Beach Car Week With Lamborghini's Mitja Borkert, Nilu27's Sasha Selipanov, & David Amante

This episode of 'The InEVitable' podcast, recorded live at the 2024 Pebble Beach Car Week, features a compelling discussion with three leadi... moreng hypercar designers: Sasha Selipanov (Nilu27), Davide Amantea (Automobili Pininfarina), and Mitja Borkert (Lamborghini). The conversation delves into the future of hypercar design, moving beyond pure technological metrics to focus on emotional fulfillment and the driving experience. Sasha Selipanov champions a return to driver engagement with a naturally aspirated V12 manual transmission for his Nilu27 hypercar, emphasizing purity and the 'Countach Factor.' Davide Amantea highlights Pininfarina's commitment to luxury and design, showcasing their electric offerings and a unique Bruce Wayne-inspired collaboration with Warner Bros. Mitja Borkert discusses Lamborghini's new hybrid V8 twin-turbo, the Temerario, stressing the brand's philosophy of creating dream objects that are both timeless and emotionally engaging, blending sound, vibration, and design. The panel collectively agrees that while performance metrics are commoditized, the true future lies in creating lasting emotional connections and experiences for the driver, with each designer offering a distinct yet complementary vision for the hypercar of tomorrow. less

New Reveals at The Quail 2024 - Lamborghini Temerario, Rimac Nevera R, Maserati, Cadillac and More!

This video provides a comprehensive overview of the 2024 Quail Motorsport Gathering, highlighting several significant vehicle reveals. The hosts cover... more a range of high-profile debuts, including the Rimac Nevera R, Maserati GT2 Stradale, Gordon Murray Automotive T50s, Cadillac Opulent Velocity Concept, Hennessey Venom F5 Revolution Roadster, Czinger Vehicles, and the Lamborghini Temerario. The presentation focuses on showcasing these exclusive machines and offering initial impressions, rather than in-depth reviews or performance testing. The video serves as a visual tour of the event's highlights for automotive enthusiasts. less

10 New Cars, Trucks, and SUVs That Will Rule 2025

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G580 marks a significant evolution for the iconic G-Class, introducing an all-electric powertrain alongside its traditional inl... moreine-6 and V8 options. The G580 retains the signature boxy, militaristic design while offering a quieter cabin and enhanced off-road capabilities with features like G-Steering. Despite its substantial weight, the electric G-Class boasts impressive performance with 579 horsepower and an estimated 240 miles of range. While pricing is not yet announced, it's expected to start above $140,000. The review highlights the G580's unique blend of luxury, off-road prowess, and electric innovation, urging owners to utilize its full potential. less

Land Cruiser vs Bronco vs Wrangler: Weekend Warriors!

MotorTrend pits the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser First Edition against the Ford Bronco Badlands Sasquatch and Jeep Wrangler 4xe Rubicon in a mountain adve... morenture. The review highlights the Land Cruiser's refined on-road manners, quietest cabin, and impressive torque from its hybrid powertrain, making it the most comfortable for highway travel and a well-rounded choice for backcountry trips. While technically the least off-road capable on paper due to less aggressive tires and slightly lower ground clearance, the Land Cruiser proved its mettle on challenging trails, requiring more finesse but ultimately performing admirably without needing its lockers. The Bronco is praised for its capability, ease of use with GOAT modes, and value, earning it the top spot for this specific adventure. The Wrangler 4xe offers impressive electric-only off-roading and immense torque but is criticized for its cramped interior, cargo limitations, and higher price point, placing it third for this comparison. less

SEMA President Mike Spagnola | The InEVitable

This episode of 'The InEVitable' features a compelling discussion with SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola, focusing on the evolving landsc... moreape of the automotive aftermarket and its adaptation to the electric vehicle era. Spagnola provides deep insights into SEMA's history, its massive trade show, and its role in supporting manufacturers and protecting the industry. A significant portion of the conversation addresses the challenges and opportunities presented by EVs, including the rise of aftermarket EV components and conversions. Spagnola also touches upon critical regulatory issues like the overturning of the Chevron Doctrine and CARB EO requirements, highlighting SEMA's efforts to help its members navigate complex compliance landscapes. The interview offers a balanced perspective on industry shifts, acknowledging both the traditional hot rod culture and the burgeoning EV market. less

Rivian Founder & CEO RJ Scaringe on the Rivian R2, R3, R3X & Beyond! | The InEVitable

This episode of The InEVitable features an in-depth conversation with Rivian Founder & CEO RJ Scaringe, focusing heavily on the company's fut... moreure product strategy and technological advancements. Scaringe reiterates his strong conviction in the inevitability of EV adoption, attributing current slowdowns to a lack of compelling choices in the market, particularly under the $50,000 price point. He highlights the excitement generated by the R2 and R3, emphasizing their ability to deliver Rivian's core brand attributes of on-road and off-road capability at more accessible price points by simplifying chassis and interior complexity compared to the R1. The discussion delves into Rivian's significant strides in vehicle architecture, moving from 17 ECUs to seven in Gen 2, and the adoption of Nvidia platforms for enhanced autonomy, with a clear distinction between Gen 1 and Gen 2 capabilities. Scaringe also touches upon the strategic use of Unreal Engine for infotainment graphics, the development of an in-house real-time OS, and the potential of generative AI to revolutionize user interaction and diagnostics. While a consumer version of the commercial van is not planned due to market focus on R2, the conversation underscores Rivian's commitment to vertical integration and delivering diverse, exciting EV options. less

Portland E-Prix with Nissan Formula E Team's Cristina Fernandez & Charlotte Henry | The InEVitable

MotorTrend's 'The InEVitable' podcast takes an insightful detour to the Portland E-Prix, featuring an engaging conversation with Nissan... more's Formula E Team engineers, Cristina Fernandez and Charlotte Henry. The discussion delves into the intricacies of Formula E racing, highlighting the unique strategic demands of the Portland International Raceway, particularly its energy-sensitive nature requiring significant driver and team management. Both engineers, with backgrounds in simulation and systems engineering, emphasize the critical role of simulators as advanced engineering tools, not mere games. They also touch upon the technology transfer from Formula E to production EVs, focusing on electric motor development and regenerative braking. The conversation acknowledges the growing impact of Chinese EV manufacturers on the global market and the challenges they face entering North America. While the technical aspects are detailed, the review also celebrates the increasing presence of women in motorsport engineering roles, noting a personal journey rather than a significant hurdle. The episode concludes with a look at the future of mobility, suggesting a multi-solution approach rather than a single dominant technology. less

Portland E-Prix with Nissan Formula E Team's Managing Director and Team Principal, Tommaso Volpe

This episode of The Inevitable podcast takes listeners to the Portland E-Prix, featuring an insightful conversation with Tommaso Volpe, Managing Direc... moretor and Team Principal of the Nissan Formula E Team. Volpe discusses the team's surprisingly strong season, attributing their success to organizational restructuring, new talent, and improved procedures. He highlights the evolution of Formula E, the potential of the Gen 4 car, and the strategic 'chess game' of energy management that defines the sport. A key takeaway is the significant technology transfer from Formula E to consumer EVs, particularly in energy efficiency and software, with the gearbox being a notable area of improvement. Volpe emphasizes that Formula E is an 'efficiency race' and a 'very intelligent form of racing,' requiring drivers to be exceptionally clever and adaptable. He also touches on the future of electric vehicles, including the potential for an electric GT-R, and explains the excitement of Formula E for spectators through its unique qualifying format and dramatic race finishes. less

2024 Performance Vehicle of the Year – Supercar Summercamp! 21 Cars - Who Wins? | MotorTrend

MotorTrend's 2024 Performance Vehicle of the Year competition showcased an impressive 21 vehicles, ranging from compact sports cars to high-horse... morepower EVs and hypercars. The event, held at Chuckwalla Valley Raceway and including a significant road trip, evaluated contenders on design, engineering, performance, value, efficiency, and driver engagement. While many vehicles impressed, including the Lucid Air Sapphire for its sheer power and the Hyundai Ioniq 5N for its engaging EV experience, the ultimate winner was the BMW M2. The M2 was lauded for its exceptional chassis feel, steering feedback, and suspension tuning, delivering a light and special driving experience despite its weight. It successfully balanced performance with usability, earning it the top spot over strong contenders like the Porsche 911 GT3 RS and Ferrari 296 GTB. less

The Future of User Experience with Mercedes' Dalal Elsheikh | The InEVitable

This episode of The Inevitable features Dalal Elsheikh, an Experience Designer at Mercedes-Benz Research and Development North America, offering a com... morepelling glimpse into the future of automotive user experience. Elsheikh discusses the evolution from physical buttons to screen-dominated interfaces and the increasing role of AI and augmented reality. While acknowledging the user demand for tactile controls, she highlights the industry's shift towards voice-activated and off-screen digital experiences. The conversation touches upon the challenges of integrating new technologies, the competitive landscape against tech giants like Apple, and the potential for cars to become a refuge from constant digital connectivity. Elsheikh also shares insights into her design process, educational background, and career path, emphasizing the blend of industrial and transportation design required for future automotive UX. less

Driving Around the World with Andrew Comrie-Picard | TransGlobal Car Expedition | The InEVitable

Andrew Comrie-Picard (ACP) details the monumental TransGlobal Car Expedition, the first circumnavigation via both geographic poles. The expedition suc... morecessfully traversed unprecedented routes, including driving from Yellowknife to the Arctic Ocean and across it using specialized amphibious vehicles and Ford F-150 Power Boost Hybrids equipped with Arctic Trucks. ACP highlights the extreme challenges of navigating moving ice, crossing open water leads with specialized ladders and winching systems, and enduring brutal Arctic conditions. He also discusses the expedition's scientific objectives, such as ice thickness surveys and cosmic ray data collection, emphasizing the critical role of Starlink for communication and data upload. The narrative touches on the personal toll of the journey, including moments of doubt and the importance of team cohesion amidst a diverse international crew. The expedition's success underscores the changing Arctic environment, making such feats increasingly difficult. less

Electrify Expo Founder BJ Birtwell on the EV Learning Curve & Electrify Expo's 8 City Tour!

This episode of The Inevitable features an insightful discussion with BJ Birtwell, founder of Electrify Expo. The conversation delves into the evolvin... moreg landscape of electric vehicles, highlighting the shift from an early adopter audience to a more mainstream, skeptical consumer base. Birtwell emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience, likening the expo to a "South by meeting a CES" where attendees can test drive a wide array of electric vehicles, e-bikes, scooters, and even boats. A key takeaway is the expo's success in attracting major manufacturers, including Tesla, who reportedly sell more cars per day at the event than at traditional auto shows. The discussion also touches upon the politicization of EVs, the rapid advancement of the Chinese market, and the need for a consistent, business-focused approach to EV adoption in the US, rather than political flip-flopping. Birtwell shares his personal journey from EV skeptic to enthusiast, underscoring the "light bulb moment" that comes from experiencing EV performance firsthand. less

Tesla-Powered Hondas with RyWire Founder Ryan Basseri | The InEVitable

This episode of The InEVitable features Ryan Basseri, founder of RyWire Motorsport Electronics, discussing his innovative EV conversion projects. Bass... moreeri, a lifelong Honda enthusiast, details his journey into electrification, highlighting his Tesla-powered Honda S2000. The S2000 conversion boasts over 600 horsepower, significantly exceeding the stock output, though it adds approximately 800 lbs to the vehicle's weight. A key takeaway is the development of conversion kits for popular Honda models like the Civic EG and EK, aiming for a "zero-cut" installation process. Basseri emphasizes the cost-effectiveness of EV powertrains, noting a Tesla Model S front drive unit offers comparable power to a K-series engine swap for a fraction of the price. A significant benefit highlighted is the smog exemption status achieved by these EV conversions in California, eliminating a major hurdle for owners of older vehicles. The discussion also touches upon advanced thermal management systems and the evolving charging standards, with Basseri expressing a preference for CCS over NACS for the tuner market due to its current widespread adoption and the ongoing development by companies like AEM. less

Smart Charging and Energy Management with The Mobility House

This episode of The InEVitable podcast delves into the future of EV charging and energy management with The Mobility House. The core proposition, ... more9;Zero Emission, Zero Cost' charging, is achieved by leveraging EV batteries to provide services to the power grid and capitalize on electricity market price spreads. While bidirectional charging is the ultimate goal, the discussion highlights the current challenges in policy, regulation, and technology that hinder its widespread adoption. The Mobility House's ChargePilot software offers managed unidirectional charging as a viable alternative, optimizing charging times to reduce costs for fleet operators and consumers. The company emphasizes the immense untapped value in parked EV batteries, projecting them to become a significant energy storage asset by 2030. The conversation also touches upon grid limitations, the 'duck curve' phenomenon, and the potential for smart charging to prevent grid instability, particularly during peak demand or extreme weather events. The episode concludes by addressing the narrative around slowing EV sales, asserting that EV adoption continues to grow, and highlighting The Mobility House's partnerships and their role in enabling a more efficient and cost-effective EV ecosystem. less

The Future of Home Energy with GM Energy's Wade Sheffer & Aseem Kapur | The InEVitable

This episode of The InEVitable features GM Energy's Wade Sheffer and Aseem Kapur discussing their comprehensive home energy system. The core offe... morering allows GM vehicles to power a home, acting as a mobile battery. Key components include a bidirectional 'Power Shift Charger,' an inverter, and a smart panel. While the initial system leverages the vehicle's battery, GM Energy plans to integrate stationary 'Power Bank' storage solutions soon, which will be eligible for a 30% IRA tax credit. The system aims to provide energy independence during outages, optimize energy costs through load shifting and time-of-use pricing, and potentially stabilize the grid by selling energy back. The discussion highlights the system's modularity, customer-centric approach, and integration with solar. While charging is universal (CCS, soon NACS), bidirectional discharge is currently limited to specific GM models like the Silverado, Equinox, Blazer, and Lyriq, with broader compatibility expected as industry standards evolve. Pricing for the initial bundle (charger, inverter, smart panel, and a small battery for system upkeep) is around $7,500, with installation costs varying. The guests emphasize the system's long-term value, potential for home value increase, and GM Energy's commitment to customer support and education. less

Out of Spec Review Founder Kyle Conner Part 2: Towing, Charging, and Today's Top EVs

In this installment of The InEVitable, Kyle Conner of Out of Spec Reviews delves into practical EV ownership, addressing common misconceptions about t... moreowing and cold-weather performance. Conner asserts that while towing isn't an EV's primary strength, it's entirely feasible, citing his own Rivian R1T's capability and a recent 500-mile tow race over the Rockies where the Silverado EV excelled due to its large battery. He debunks the myth that EVs are rendered useless in freezing temperatures, explaining that reduced efficiency and capacity are manageable with modern technology and preconditioning. Conner also shares his personal charging strategy of keeping his Rivian at 50% for battery longevity, contrasting it with LFP batteries that benefit from full charges for calibration. The discussion touches upon the complexities of charging infrastructure, the challenges faced by Charge Point Operators, and the ongoing improvements in reliability, partly driven by media pressure. While not a fan of plug-in hybrids due to their complexity and environmental impact during cold starts, Conner remains a proponent of EVs, particularly highlighting the Tesla Model 3 for its value and the Rivian R1T as his personal favorite for its overall platform. less

Out of Spec, Kyle Conner's Tesla Model 3 vs. Hyundai Ioniq 5, and EV Reviews | The InEVitable

Kyle Conner joins MotorTrend's The InEVitable to discuss the latest in electric vehicles. The conversation touches on the newly announced Tesla M... moreodel 3 Performance, which Conner found to be a good daily driver but not the hardcore performance machine he expected, especially when compared to the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. He also shares his experience with the Tesla Cybertruck, noting its unique appeal and the challenges of its design for practical truck use, while still preferring his Rivian R1T for daily tasks. The discussion extends to the Porsche Macan Electric, highlighting its impressive route planning capabilities but questioning its lack of one-pedal driving and overall software sophistication compared to competitors. Conner emphasizes his hands-on, comprehensive review approach, blending traditional automotive testing with an understanding of software and connected experiences, driven by a lifelong passion for cars. less

McKeel Hagerty Discusses Autonomy, Fighting for the Right to Drive, and Preserving Car Culture

This episode of 'The Inevitable' features an insightful conversation with Hagerty CEO McKeel Hagerty, exploring the evolution of his company... more from a niche insurer to a broad automotive enthusiast platform. Hagerty discusses the strategic expansion into events, media, and auctions, highlighting the acquisition of Broad Arrow and the success of events like Amelia and Motorlux. A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the future of driving and car culture, particularly in the face of autonomous vehicle technology. Hagerty expresses a strong commitment to preserving the right to drive and the cultural significance of automobiles, emphasizing that while autonomous tech may dominate urban environments, the passion for driving will persist on open roads. He also touches upon the importance of preserving automotive history through initiatives like the National Historic Vehicle Registry. The conversation touches on Tesla and early EV experiences, with Hagerty sharing his personal ownership of a Taycan Turbo S, praising its performance and design. less

How to Make a Software Defined Vehicle (SDV) with Jeff Chou & Robert Day | The InEVitable

This episode of The InEVitable podcast delves into the burgeoning world of Software Defined Vehicles (SDVs) with insights from Jeff Chou of Sonatus an... mored Robert Day of ARM. The discussion clarifies the distinction between a 'smartphone on wheels' and a 'data center on wheels,' emphasizing the immense data processing and network capabilities required for modern vehicles. Sonatus provides the crucial 'software plumbing' that enables OEMs to realize their SDV visions, while ARM supplies the underlying processing power through its silicon. The conversation highlights the industry's significant shift from domain controllers to zonal and centralized compute architectures, driven by the need for efficiency and advanced features like remote diagnostics and over-the-air updates. While acknowledging the inherent complexities and potential resistance to change, both guests underscore the inevitability of this transformation, propelled by new generations of digital-native consumers and the evolving landscape of transportation as a service. less

Daniel Wu on China's EV Adoption Boom & the Ji Yue 01 AI-Powered "Robocar" | The InEVitable

Daniel Wu joins The InEVitable to discuss China's burgeoning EV market and the AI-centric Ji Yue 01. Wu highlights the rapid adoption of EVs in C... morehina, noting that green license plates are now common on highways, with approximately 40% of vehicles being electric. He was particularly impressed by the Ji Yue 01, a "robocar" developed by a Geely and Baidu partnership. Wu describes its advanced AI capabilities, including voice commands that control various functions, and its Level 4 autonomous driving potential, though not yet activated for retail. He also touches on the vehicle's impressive design, a $30,000 price point, and a 0-60 mph time of 3.8 seconds. The discussion also covers the broader Chinese automotive landscape, including the GT Show, the evolution of local brands, and the shift towards tech and user experience over raw performance. Wu contrasts this with traditional Western automotive priorities and shares his personal racing experiences. less

How SDVs Will Reshape Our Cities? Dylan Jones of Gensler The InEVitable

This episode of The Inevitable features Dylan Jones of Gensler, a leading architectural firm, discussing their book "Design for a Radically Chang... moreing World" and its implications for urban planning in the era of Software Defined Vehicles (SDVs). The conversation debunks the narrative of slowing EV adoption, emphasizing that while growth may moderate, the transition to EVs is inevitable and crucial for global competitiveness. Jones highlights how the automobile has historically shaped cities and how future mobility, including autonomous vehicles, electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, and micro-mobility, will necessitate a fundamental rethinking of urban design. Key areas explored include the transformation of parking garages into multi-functional spaces, the integration of charging infrastructure, and the potential for vehicles to become energy and data hubs. The discussion also touches upon the challenges and opportunities presented by autonomous driving technology and the evolving landscape of charging networks, suggesting a future where charging stations become amenity-rich destinations. less

2024 Fiat 500e Hits America with Head of Fiat North America Aamir Ahmed

The 2024 Fiat 500e marks a significant return to the North American market, aiming to replicate its European success as the best-selling city EV. Head... more of Fiat North America, Aamir Ahmed, highlights key improvements over the previous generation, most notably a doubled battery size (42 kWh) leading to an EPA-estimated 149 miles of combined range (162 miles city). The vehicle is also lighter by 50 lbs and built on a bespoke electric platform, with homologation for North America including enhanced safety features. Fiat emphasizes simplicity with only two main options: a home L2 charger or charging credits, and a choice of summer or all-season tires. The 500e is positioned as an affordable EV, starting at $32,500 plus destination, with leasing options expected to be popular due to IRA qualifications. The brand is adopting a "sneaker drop" strategy for introducing new "animations" or special editions throughout the year, starting with the "500e Red." While acknowledging the EV tech is based on a 2020 European launch, Fiat stresses the inclusion of modern tech like wireless CarPlay/Android Auto and a larger touchscreen. The car is designed for urban dwellers, emphasizing character, Italian design, and a premium feel over pure price competition, differentiating it from more utilitarian EVs. less

Picking the 2014 Best Driver's Car!

Full Kia Press Conference Featuring All New Niro Reveal - 2016 Chicago Auto Show

The Future of Driving? Coding the Car

Tesla Model Y vs. Ioniq 5 vs. Kia EV6 vs. Equinox EV vs. Mustang Mach-E vs. VW ID4 vs. Toyota bZ

Apple Car: What Does It Mean for Tesla and the Future of Mobility? - Wide Open Throttle Ep. 94

First Drive: 2015 Nismo GT-R! Plus Tokyo Motor Show & Mitsubishi Concepts - Wide Open Throttle Ep 91

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