MotorTrend Channel

Are Fossil Fuels the Problem? Dr. Emily Fischer of Science Moms The InEVitable

This episode of The InEVitable features a compelling discussion with Dr. Emily Fischer, an atmospheric scientist and member of Science Moms. The conve... morersation tackles the urgent realities of climate change, moving beyond abstract concepts to tangible impacts like wildfires and air quality. Dr. Fischer eloquently explains the science behind climate change, emphasizing that while the situation is serious, it is not without solutions. A key takeaway is the direct link between fossil fuel consumption and detrimental environmental and health effects, particularly concerning for future generations. The discussion highlights the significant, immediate air quality improvements observed during pandemic lockdowns when vehicle emissions dropped, underscoring the rapid benefits of transitioning to electric vehicles. Dr. Fischer also shares her personal experience with EV adoption, including the challenges and eventual satisfaction, while advocating for improved and equitable charging infrastructure. The episode effectively debunks climate change skepticism by grounding the discussion in observable data and scientific consensus, urging listeners to consider the well-being of their children as a primary motivator for action. less

The Future of Software Defined Recreational Vehicles with Pebble's Bingrui Yang & Stefan Solyom

MotorTrend's 'The Inevitable' podcast features Pebble's Bingrui Yang and Stefan Solyom, introducing the Pebble Flow, a 100% electr... moreic, software-defined travel trailer. The Flow boasts impressive features like a 'Magic Hitch' for self-hitching, remote control maneuverability, and a 45 kWh LFP battery capable of powering the trailer and assisting the tow vehicle, significantly extending EV range. The trailer offers a luxurious, all-electric interior with a Murphy bed, galley kitchen, and a full bathroom, designed for off-grid living for up to seven days with amenities like A/C. While the base model starts at $109,000, a loaded version with advanced robotics and dual motors reaches $125,000. The company emphasizes a holistic, automotive-grade design for efficiency and durability, aiming to revolutionize recreational vehicle living by eliminating traditional towing hassles and offering a seamless, tech-integrated experience. less

Sasha Selipanov on the Tesla Cybertruck, Huracáns, & the Perfect Hypercar | The InEVitable

Sasha Selipanov, a renowned automotive designer, shares his unique perspective on the Tesla Cybertruck, appreciating its radical departure from conven... moretional design and its 'holy wow' factor, drawing parallels to 1970s wedge cars and dystopian sci-fi. While acknowledging its pure, exceptional nature, he notes minor clumsiness in its volumes. Selipanov also touches upon his own design prequel, the Bertone Pharaoh, and his involvement with iconic vehicles like the Lamborghini Huracán and Bugatti Chiron. He expresses a preference for minimalist interiors, finding Tesla's approach fresh, though suggesting room for refinement. The discussion highlights the Cybertruck's potential to inspire bolder design choices across the industry, despite its departure from promised specs and a significant price gap from other Tesla models. The conversation also delves into Selipanov's design philosophy, his transition from traditional to digital design tools, and his formative experiences. less

Our SDV Future with AWS' Stefano Marzani & Level 3 Autonomy, ChatGPT with Mercedes' Magnus Östberg

This episode of 'The Inevitable' from MotorTrend features insightful discussions with leaders from AWS and Mercedes-Benz, focusing on the so... moreftware-defined vehicle (SDV) future. Stefano Marzani of AWS highlights the critical role of cloud computing in automotive data processing, virtual testing, and the development of digital cockpits, emphasizing the 'big loop' concept where data collection fuels continuous improvement. He stresses the importance of consumer consent and data security within regulatory frameworks. The conversation then shifts to Mercedes-Benz's Chief Software Officer, Magnus Oestberg, who details the company's pioneering achievement of Level 3 autonomy certification in the US. Oestberg explains the meticulous approach to building customer trust, managing responsibility shifts, and standardizing communication signals for autonomous driving. He also discusses the integration of ChatGPT, noting the significant increase in voice assistant usage and the surprising human desire for conversational AI, leading Mercedes-Benz to develop AI personas with emotional intelligence. The episode underscores the industry's move towards making cars platforms for creativity and enhanced user experiences, driven by software innovation. less

Flying Cars & Future SDVs w/ Xpeng's Brian Gu & Jack Cheng of MIH Consortium | The InEVitable

This episode of The InEVitable features a fascinating discussion with Dr. Brian Gu of XPeng and Jack Cheng of the MIH Consortium. The highlight is XPe... moreng's AeroHT flying car, with pre-orders set for late 2024 and deliveries by the end of 2025. While initially targeting the Chinese market for scenarios like scenic recreational areas, the vehicle boasts a 20km electric range for its quadcopter, which can be continuously charged by its hybrid six-wheel base vehicle. The discussion also touches upon XPeng's P7 and G9, noting their strong reception in Nordic countries and plans for broader European expansion. The conversation shifts to the broader landscape of Chinese EVs in the US market, with both guests emphasizing the need for thorough preparation. Jack Cheng details his extensive automotive background, from Ford to Fiat Chrysler and co-founding NIO, before discussing the MIH Consortium's goal to become a leading EV contract manufacturer, leveraging Foxconn's electronics manufacturing prowess. The episode underscores the rapid advancement and increasing competitiveness of Chinese automakers in the global EV space. less

Future Battery Tech With Electra Vehicles' Fabrizio Martini & Prof Shai Shalev-Shwartz| The InEVitable

This episode of The InEVitable, recorded at CES, features a deep dive into battery technology with Fabrizio Martini of Electra Vehicles and Professor ... moreShai Shalev-Shwartz of Mobileye. The discussion highlights Electra's innovative approach to battery optimization through design, predictive analytics, and their EVE-Ai Adaptive Controls, a system with roots in a NASA project for Venus exploration. Martini emphasizes the critical role of software in enhancing battery performance, predicting failures up to three months in advance, and managing degradation. The conversation also touches upon the evolving charging standards, with a consensus that the North American Charging Standard (NACS) is likely to prevail over CCS. While solid-state batteries face manufacturing hurdles, advancements in NMC, LFP, and lithium metal chemistries are promising. The episode underscores the importance of software in maximizing EV potential, from battery health monitoring to V2X integration, positioning Electra Vehicles as a key player in the software-defined vehicle future. less

Joel McHale on His Restomods, Road to Hollywood, & Crime Scene Kitchen on Fox! | The InEVitable

This episode of 'The InEVitable' features actor and comedian Joel McHale, who discusses his passion for restomod vehicles. McHale highlights... more his custom 1969 International Scout, a project he describes as a complete restomod with a new chassis and LS3 engine, intended as a daily driver for his wife. He also shares his admiration for Icon's meticulously restored 1970 FJ43 Land Cruiser, praising the attention to detail and quality of components used by Jonathan Ward. While McHale expresses a desire for a Rivian, the conversation primarily focuses on his collection of classic and restomodded off-roaders, revealing a deep appreciation for their engineering and aesthetic. The episode also touches upon his early career, struggles with dyslexia, and his love for sports, providing a well-rounded look at his interests beyond his comedic persona. less

Roadster Shop CEO Laurent Potdevin on Pushing Back on the EV Wave | Hot Rod Pod

Laurent Potdevin, CEO of Roadster Shop, shares his unique journey from luxury fashion and sports brands to the automotive aftermarket. Potdevin emphas... moreizes the importance of brand building, passion, and product innovation, drawing parallels between diverse industries. He highlights how his engineering background fosters curiosity and problem-solving, crucial for developing aspirational brands. The discussion touches on the challenges of industry consolidation, the power of authentic influencer marketing, and the enduring appeal of internal combustion engines amidst the EV wave. Potdevin expresses optimism for the future of brands like Roadster Shop, focusing on organic growth and leveraging existing strengths to connect with enthusiasts across generations. less

Debuting New Lucid Gravity SUV With CEO Peter Rawlinson and Senior VP of Design and Brand Derek Jenkins

This video features an in-depth discussion with Lucid Motors CEO Peter Rawlinson and Senior VP of Design & Brand Derek Jenkins at the world premie... morere of the Lucid Gravity SUV. The conversation covers the evolution of the Gravity's design, emphasizing its optimization for range and efficiency, and highlights the practical inclusion of a "REAL Third Row." Key aspects of the battery pack design and its influence on exterior styling are explored, alongside details on the secondary screen adjustments, exterior/interior lighting, and the utility of the frunk. The discussion also delves into Lucid's brand DNA, the strategic decision to launch with a sedan first, and the company's timeline and engineering philosophy. The Genesis of the Gravity SUV and considerations for charging infrastructure are also touched upon. While the video provides a comprehensive look at the Gravity's development and features from key Lucid executives, it lacks specific performance metrics or real-world driving impressions, focusing primarily on design and engineering intent. less

E Bikes With Cake's Chief Growth Officer Eric Asmussen | The InEVitable

This episode of The InEVitable features Eric Asmussen, Chief Growth Officer for CAKE e-bikes, discussing the brand's premium electric motorcycles... more and e-bikes. CAKE differentiates itself with a focus on being light, quiet, and clean, positioning its products as a hybrid between electric mountain bikes and electric motorcycles. The conversation delves into the varying regulations for e-bikes and electric motorcycles across different US states, highlighting the complexity for consumers. Asmussen emphasizes CAKE's commitment to sustainability through durable, modular designs, likening their service approach to Lego. The Osa model is presented as a versatile utility vehicle, suitable for last-mile delivery, personal transport, and even specialized uses like anti-poaching initiatives in Africa. While acknowledging the premium price point, the discussion frames CAKE bikes as potential car replacements, offering efficiency and a unique urban mobility solution. The episode also touches upon the brand's global presence, production in Sweden and Taiwan, and future market strategies, particularly in North America. less

Hydrogen Powered Long Haul Trucking with Nikola's Chief Engineer Christian Appel

This episode of The InEVitable features an in-depth discussion with Nikola's Chief Engineer, Christian Appel, about their groundbreaking Hydrogen... more Fuel Cell Electric Semi Truck. The hosts, Ed Loh and Jonny Lieberman, get a firsthand experience driving the vehicle, highlighting its smooth, gearless acceleration and superior performance compared to traditional diesel trucks. Key advantages noted include instant torque, reduced noise and vibration, and a more comfortable cab environment. The truck boasts a 500-mile range on a full 70kg hydrogen load, with refueling times around 20 minutes, expandable to 7-8 minutes with future high-flow standards. While the "backpack" design for hydrogen tanks is a departure, it allows for a competitive wheelbase in the US market. The discussion also touches on the importance of green hydrogen production and the parallel development of refueling infrastructure, with Nikola partnering to build stations across the country. Skepticism from traditional truckers is surprisingly low, with many showing keen interest in the technology and improved driver experience. Fleet owners are focused on reliability and cost-effectiveness, which Nikola aims to prove with initial customer shipments. less

Synthetic Fuels With Porsches Karl Dums

This episode of The Inevitable delves into the complex world of synthetic fuels (eFuels) with Porsche's Senior Project Lead, Karl Dums. While ini... moretially skeptical, hosts Ed Loh and Jonny Lieberman explore the potential of eFuels as a carbon-neutral solution for the existing 1.4 billion internal combustion engine vehicles. Dums explains that eFuels, produced using renewable energy, hydrogen, and captured CO2, are chemically almost identical to gasoline and can be used in current engines without modification. Porsche is actively involved in pilot plants in Patagonia and future facilities in Texas and Tasmania, aiming for industrialization by 2027. The technology is largely based on existing processes, with ongoing development focused on cost reduction and efficiency. While eFuels offer a way to decarbonize the current fleet, Porsche's long-term strategy remains focused on electrification for new vehicles, with eFuels primarily targeting legacy internal combustion engines, including potential applications in aviation and marine transport. less

New 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland Review: Did They Do Enough?

The 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland receives a significant refresh, focusing on refinement and addressing key customer feedback points. While powertrain c... moreomponents remain unchanged, the exterior boasts a cleaner, more aerodynamic design, contributing to increased range. The interior sees substantial improvements in material quality, fit, and finish, with notable additions like ambient lighting and ventilated seats. A major change is the relocation of indicators and gear selection to the steering wheel and touchscreen, respectively, which, while controversial, is presented as a step towards future automotive interfaces. The suspension and NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) have been considerably improved, offering a quieter and more comfortable ride. Real-world range tests showed a slight decrease for the Long Range model compared to the previous generation, but overall, the Highland is deemed a substantial improvement, offering a more premium and refined experience without feeling cheap. less

75 Years of Porsche at Rennsport Reunion 7 | Porsche + Michelin's EV Racing Mission

MotorTrend's "The InEVitable" podcast visits Rennsport Reunion 7, focusing on Porsche and Michelin's collaborative push towards an... more electrified future in customer racing. The discussion centers on the Porsche GT4 e-Performance, a 718 Cayman-based race car utilizing technology from the Mission R concept. Key highlights include the car's performance capabilities, with up to 1200 horsepower in 'party mode,' and its development using 63% sustainable materials in the Michelin tires. The hosts and guests explore the challenges and opportunities of EV racing, emphasizing its role as a technological testbed and a brand differentiator for Porsche. Michelin's commitment to sustainability, aiming for 100% sustainable materials by 2050, is also a significant theme. While acknowledging initial customer interest and the brand's historical willingness to innovate, the conversation touches on the perception lag and the emotional connection drivers still have with combustion engines. The GT4 e-Performance tour serves as a crucial step in educating stakeholders and preparing for the future of electric customer racing. less

Kia's Steve Kosowski on the Charging Alliance, EV6 GT, EV9 SUV, and Future Outlook of the EV Market

This episode of The Inevitable features Steve Kosowski, Kia's National Manager for Long Range Strategy and Planning, discussing the brand's ... moreEV future. A significant portion of the conversation centers on the new charging alliance, a joint venture with other OEMs to deploy 30,000 ultra-high-speed DC chargers (350kW minimum) by 2030, addressing a critical gap in public charging infrastructure. Kosowski acknowledges Tesla's early success in integrating charging and explains the industry's delayed response due to high costs and a focus on home charging. The discussion delves into Kia's EV6 and the performance-oriented EV6 GT, highlighting the EGMP platform's development since 2015-2016 and its role in enabling consistent performance, referencing vehicles like the Jaguar I-PACE and Tesla Model 3 Performance as benchmarks. The EV9 SUV's development is also touched upon, emphasizing Kia's distinct design language within the Hyundai Motor Group. The conversation explores battery technology, favoring pouch cells for their packaging advantages and discussing the potential of LFP batteries for cost reduction and solid-state batteries for future density and safety improvements. A key takeaway is the industry's recognition of charging infrastructure as a crucial factor for broader EV adoption, particularly for attracting a wider demographic beyond early adopters. less

MotorTrend Investigates China's EV Takeover of Mexico

MotorTrend investigates China's growing influence in the Mexican automotive market, focusing on the rapid expansion of Chinese EV manufacturers l... moreike BYD and Chery. The report highlights a significant shift from past perceptions of poor quality to the current reality of well-designed, technologically advanced, and competitively priced vehicles. The review specifically praises the BYD Plus for its impressive quality, stylish design, and enjoyable driving experience, noting its potential to rival established brands. While acknowledging past negative experiences with Chinese imports, the analysis emphasizes the dramatic improvement in product quality and the strategic advantages Chinese automakers leverage, including aggressive pricing and supply chain resilience. The piece concludes that Chinese EVs are poised to make a substantial impact, with Mexico serving as a crucial gateway to the North American market, posing a significant competitive threat to established US automakers. less

Air Taxis and Electric Aerial Ridesharing with Joby Aviation's Oliver Walker-Jones! The InEVitable

This episode of The InEVitable features Oliver Walker-Jones of Joby Aviation, discussing the company's ambitious plans for electric air taxis. Th... moree core of the discussion revolves around Joby's eVTOL aircraft, designed to carry a pilot and four passengers with a range of approximately 100 miles and a top speed of 200 mph. Key advantages highlighted include significantly reduced noise pollution compared to helicopters due to its electric, distributed propulsion system with six rotors. The company emphasizes safety through redundancy in its electric systems and a simplified control interface, aiming to make the aircraft easier to fly and maintain. Joby is targeting a commercial service launch in 2025, initially with pricing comparable to Uber Black, with plans to decrease costs as production scales. The interview also touches on the company's strong backing from major players like Toyota and its acquisition of Uber Elevate, signaling a serious push towards making aerial ridesharing a reality. less

The Future of Software Defined Vehicles (SDVs) with Ford's Doug Field

Doug Field, Ford's Chief Advanced Product Development & Technology Officer, provides a comprehensive overview of Software Defined Vehicles (S... moreDVs) in this insightful discussion. He clarifies that SDVs represent a paradigm shift from hardware-centric designs to a robot-like architecture where software controls all vehicle functions. Field emphasizes that SDVs are more significant than EVs, as software will govern all powertrains, including internal combustion and hybrids. He highlights the advantages of SDVs, such as enhanced safety, over-the-air updates, and the potential for a "platform for creativity" where automakers can develop unique experiences beyond what smartphones offer. Field dismisses the "smartphone on wheels" analogy, stressing that automakers must leverage unique vehicle data and sensor capabilities. He also touches upon the challenges of achieving full autonomy, describing it as an extremely difficult problem, potentially harder than the moon landing, and discusses the limitations of current connectivity-dependent autonomous systems. The conversation also delves into Ford's organizational split to focus on EVs and software, the importance of continuous development, and the evolving landscape of subscription services, with a commitment to providing fundamental rights like safety and security while earning the right to monetize differentiated features. less

Ford CEO Jim Farley on Ford Mustang GTD, Adopting Tesla's Charging Standard, and Splitting the Company

Ford CEO Jim Farley discusses the highly anticipated Mustang GTD, a street-legal race car concept inspired by European GT cars, aiming to compete with... more models like the Porsche 911 GT3 RS. Key technological highlights include an inboard spool valve rear suspension and a dual-element DRS system for enhanced aerodynamics. The GTD will feature a supercharged V8 engine, producing at least 800 horsepower, and is slated for a limited global production run with an estimated price around $300,000. Farley also detailed Ford's strategic adoption of Tesla's North American Charging Standard (NACS), emphasizing customer convenience and the network's reliability. He explained the rationale behind splitting Ford into 'Ford Blue' and 'Ford Model e' divisions to foster innovation in EVs and software-defined vehicles (SDVs). The conversation touched upon the challenges and opportunities in EV adoption, the importance of talent, and Ford's strategy for software monetization through subscriptions and services, particularly focusing on predictive maintenance and semi-autonomous driving features like BlueCruise. less

Aston Martin Director of Design Miles Nurnberger on Designing Aston Martin Valkyrie | The InEVitable

This episode of The InEVitable features Aston Martin's Director of Design, Miles Nurnberger, discussing the creation of the Valkyrie. The convers... moreation delves into the car's genesis, likening its development to the Manhattan Project due to its unprecedented complexity and ambition. Nurnberger highlights the intense collaboration with Adrian Newey, emphasizing Newey's demand for absolute control and meticulous detail, which often led to challenging but ultimately rewarding design decisions. The review touches upon the Valkyrie's extreme performance, its F1-inspired engineering, and the unique, uncompromised driving experience, which is described as both brutal and exhilarating. While the car pushes the boundaries of what's possible for a road-legal vehicle, the discussion also acknowledges the significant challenges in its design and production, particularly regarding packaging and occupant comfort, though the overall sentiment suggests the project was a resounding success in achieving its ambitious goals. less

Bisimoto's Bisi Ezerioha on His Big EV Revelation, Moby X, EV Tuning, & Tesla Projects | MotorTrend

Bisimoto's Bisi Ezerioha shares a compelling journey from EV skeptic to enthusiast, detailing his "come to Jesus" moment at CES 2018. I... morenitially dismissive of electric vehicles as soulless, Ezerioha's perspective shifted dramatically after experiencing the performance and engineering of EVs firsthand. The conversation highlights his personal EV conversion project, a 935 tribute dubbed the K3V, which he begrudgingly built but was ultimately captivated by its intoxicating acceleration and unique driving connection. He contrasts the high cost and complexity of his past drag racing builds with the accessibility of modern performance EVs like the Tesla Model S Plaid, which he likens to his drag car. Ezerioha emphasizes that performance EVs offer a visceral, engaging driving experience, debunking the "no soul" myth for those who have experienced them, and notes a surprising connection to the tarmac that petrol engines seemed to dampen. The review also touches on the burgeoning EV aftermarket and the challenges of tuning in the "wild west" of EV modification. less

Gran Turismo Director Neill Blomkamp & Pro Driver Jann Mardenborough | The InEVitable S9 E6

This episode of The InEVitable features a compelling discussion with Gran Turismo film director Neill Blomkamp and the real-life inspiration for the m... moreovie, driver Jann Mardenborough. Blomkamp details his unexpected transition from sci-fi to directing this sports drama, driven by his passion for cars and the inspirational true story of Mardenborough's journey from gamer to professional racer via the GT Academy. Mardenborough shares his early fascination with the Gran Turismo game, his meticulous process of building his own racing rig, and the challenges he faced, including skepticism from established racers and a near-fatal accident. The conversation highlights the film's surprising authenticity, with Blomkamp striving for global shooting locations despite budget constraints. Both guests express enthusiasm for EVs, with Blomkamp likening the Tesla Model S Plaid to a 'nuclear missile,' though Mardenborough's personal EV experience is less detailed. less

The Future of Ruf Automobile With Aloisa Ruf

In this episode of MotorTrend's 'The InEVitable,' hosts Ed Loh and Jonny Lieberman sit down with Aloisa Ruf, daughter of RUF Automobile... more's founder. Aloisa provides a deep dive into the storied history of RUF, from its origins as a gas station and bus company in 1939 to its current status as a bespoke supercar manufacturer, renowned for its Porsche-based creations. She shares personal anecdotes, including her first driving experiences in iconic RUF models like the prototype Yellowbird, and discusses her internship at the Petersen Automotive Museum. The conversation touches upon RUF's unique business model, emphasizing custom builds and a strong customer-family relationship. While RUF has experimented with EVs in the past (e.g., the 2008 eRUF), Aloisa indicates the company is not currently pursuing electrification, focusing instead on their core expertise in high-performance, analog driving experiences. The episode highlights RUF's commitment to craftsmanship, exclusivity, and pushing the boundaries of automotive engineering. less

Exploring the All New Cadillac Escalade IQ with Mandi Damman

The Cadillac Escalade IQ represents a significant reimagining of the iconic luxury SUV, embracing an all-electric future. Chief Engineer Mandi Damman ... morehighlights the vehicle's impressive 750 horsepower (with Velocity Max), estimated 450 miles of range, and advanced features like the 55-inch curved display and Ultra Cruise. While the design is a departure from traditional Escalades, aiming for improved aerodynamics, the vehicle retains its luxurious intent with features like power-opening doors and an executive second row. Challenges in development included managing the weight and integrating large wheels and tires (24-inch wheels with 35-inch tires) while maintaining Cadillac's signature ride isolation and performance. The platform shares underpinnings with the Hummer EV but features unique Cadillac styling and tuning. A notable omission for some buyers will be the lack of Apple CarPlay, with Cadillac opting for a Google-based infotainment system. 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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