TRANSPORT EVOLVED EPISODE 200 TRIPPED UP

EV Channels Review

This episode of Transport Evolved, recorded in May 2014, delves into several key EV stories. The hosts express significant disappointment with the Cadillac ELR, highlighting its exorbitant $75,000 price tag, slow sales (two years of inventory), and GM's apparent lack of commitment to the model, even offering dealer incentives to move units. They criticize GM's marketing and dealer training for the ELR, questioning the brand's overall commitment to EVs despite the Volt's existence. The discussion also touches on Tesla's past partnership with Lotus for the Roadster, with Elon Musk regretting the collaboration and stating he'd build it from scratch next time due to extensive modifications needed. The end of the Tesla-Toyota RAV4 EV partnership is also noted, with Toyota's continued skepticism towards EVs and focus on fuel cell technology being a recurring theme. The Fiat 500e's second safety recall for coolant seepage and Chevy's switch in Spark EV battery pack production to the US are also briefly covered. Overall, the episode paints a picture of a slow news week with lingering questions about automaker commitment to EVs, particularly from GM and Toyota.