PROBLEMS, PROBLEMS, PROBLEMS - AUTOLINE AFTER HOURS 129

EV Channels Review

Autoline After Hours tackles the complex landscape of automotive quality and the future of electric vehicles. The discussion begins with a positive review of the Chevrolet Sonic, particularly praising its quiet ride and efficient gearing for highway speeds, a rarity in its class. However, the conversation quickly shifts to the challenges facing EVs. The Chevrolet Volt's public relations crisis due to fire concerns is highlighted as a significant setback, despite its technological merits. The panelists express skepticism about the widespread adoption of EVs by 2020, citing their current niche status and the potential for government mandates to create a "rude awakening." The segment also touches upon the struggles of EV startups like Aptera, attributing their failures to funding issues and the broader economic climate, especially concerning government loans. The show also briefly discusses the Subaru BRZ, questioning its potential to alter Subaru's image, and the strategic move of Lexus relocating its global marketing to California. The Dodge Dart's revival and Fiat's poorly executed launch of the 500 are also critiqued. A significant portion is dedicated to the UAW's aggressive tactics against Hyundai and Nissan, with the panelists largely dismissing the union's current strategy as nonsensical and unsustainable. Finally, the show delves into the intricacies of automotive reliability ratings, with Michael Karesh of TrueDelta.com offering a critique of Consumer Reports' methodology, advocating for more frequent and objective data collection.