Autoline Network

Autoline Network

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Autoline Network is a premier distributor dedicated to delivering comprehensive automotive news and insights to enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. Specializing in global automotive developments, the network provides in-depth coverage of everything from cutting-edge EV and AV technology to ICE advancements, car sales trends, and financial earnings reports. Viewers can expect expert analysis and reviews of the latest vehicles, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of the automotive landscape.

The channel distinguishes itself through exclusive content, featuring top auto executive interviews and detailed breakdowns of automotive innovations. With a focus on clarity and expert opinion, Autoline Network serves as an essential resource for anyone seeking to stay informed about the dynamic world of automobiles, from technological breakthroughs to market performance.

Latest Additions

Showing 24 of 868 total titles. Page 35 of 37.

Problems, Problems, Problems - Autoline After Hours 129

Problems, Problems, Problems - Autoline After Hours 129

Autoline After Hours tackles the complex landscape of automotive quality and the future of electric vehicles. The discussion begins with a positive re... view 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. less
Get the Lead Out and the LED In - Autoline After Hours 128

Get the Lead Out and the LED In - Autoline After Hours 128

This episode of Autoline After Hours delves into the automotive industry's current landscape, focusing on sales trends, emerging technologies, an... d executive decisions. The discussion highlights a surprisingly strong November car sales report, with Jeep and Volkswagen showing significant gains. A major point of contention is the Chevrolet Volt's battery fire incidents, with the hosts questioning NHTSA's safety protocols and GM's handling of the situation, suggesting a lack of transparency. The conversation also touches upon the challenges faced by Fisker Automotive and the broader push for electric vehicles, with skepticism expressed regarding their immediate viability and infrastructure. The departure of Laura Soave from Fiat is analyzed, with the consensus being that she was set up for failure due to unrealistic sales targets and a flawed dealer strategy. The episode concludes with an in-depth look at LED lighting technology and magnesium housing for automotive applications, featuring inventor Michael Pickholz, who advocates for its adoption to reduce weight and improve cooling, while lamenting the auto industry's resistance to new technologies from independent sources. less
Pact It In - Autoline This Week 1547

Pact It In - Autoline This Week 1547

This episode of Autoline This Week delves into the intricacies of the new UAW contract with Chrysler, Ford, and General Motors. The panel largely agre... es that while not groundbreaking, the contract solidifies the framework established in 2007 and 2009, representing a stabilizing force for the industry. Key takeaways include the shift towards more generous profit-sharing instead of solely demanding wage increases, concessions on pensions for the union, and commitments to jobs. A significant point of discussion was the UAW leadership's internal negotiations with its rank-and-file, who had to accept major changes made during the crisis years now that companies are profitable. The contract aims to keep the Detroit Three competitive with transplants by managing labor costs, though the increasing use of temporary workers by transplants is noted as a potential risk. The episode also explores the growing role of social media in union communications and the UAW's long-term strategy to organize suppliers and potentially insource more work, though challenges remain in bridging the gap with non-unionized transplant operations. less
Bigger Than The Book - Autoline This Week 1546

Bigger Than The Book - Autoline This Week 1546

This episode of Autoline This Week features a candid discussion with Steve Wade, Chairman of the National Automotive Dealers Association (NADA), along... side journalists Jeff Bennett and Steve Finley. The conversation centers on the state of the automotive retail market, particularly in the aftermath of the 2008 recession and the significant dealership consolidation. Wade expresses strong reservations about the methods used in the GM and Chrysler dealership cuts, highlighting the devastating impact on individual franchisees. While acknowledging that some consolidation might have been necessary for the OEMs, he questions the benefit to consumers and dealers, especially regarding increased travel distances for service. A major point of contention is the manufacturers' costly image programs, which many dealers feel are excessive and not tied to demonstrable return on investment, particularly as consumers increasingly research and transact online. Wade emphasizes NADA's study to bring data-driven reasoning to these programs. The discussion also touches upon evolving consumer buying habits, the importance of fixed operations, and NADA's concerns about the feasibility and cost implications of ambitious new fuel economy standards. less
Revenge - Autoline After Hours 126

Revenge - Autoline After Hours 126

This episode of Autoline After Hours features a compelling discussion around the future of electric vehicles, anchored by an interview with Chris Pain... e, director of "Revenge of the Electric Car." The conversation delves into the challenges and potential of EVs, with the Chevrolet Volt and Nissan Leaf highlighted as key examples. While acknowledging the significant engineering achievements of vehicles like the Volt, the panel expresses skepticism about widespread consumer adoption in the immediate future, citing factors such as charging infrastructure limitations and consumer perception. The discussion also touches upon the impact of oil prices, the role of government incentives, and the broader automotive industry landscape, including GM's financial performance, Toyota's struggles, and the rise of Audi. The overall sentiment suggests that while EVs are technically impressive and offer a superior driving experience, overcoming consumer inertia and infrastructure hurdles will be crucial for their mass-market success. less
Once Upon a Car - Autoline This Week 1543

Once Upon a Car - Autoline This Week 1543

This episode of Autoline This Week features an in-depth discussion with Bill Vlasic, author of "Once Upon a Car: The Fall and Resurrection of Ame... rica's Big Three Automakers." The conversation delves into the tumultuous period leading up to and including the bankruptcies of GM, Ford, and Chrysler. Vlasic, drawing on extensive interviews with key players and plant-level employees, reveals the behind-the-scenes intrigue and decision-making that nearly brought down the American auto industry. Key insights include the significant, though often overlooked, role of investor Kirk Kerkorian and his advisor Jerry York in attempting to influence Ford and GM. The review highlights Alan Mulally's transformative leadership at Ford as a critical factor in the company's survival, contrasting it with the struggles at GM and Chrysler. The discussion also touches upon the challenges faced by the UAW during this period and the unsustainable legacy costs that plagued the industry. Vlasic emphasizes that while the crisis was devastating, it ultimately led to a leaner, more competitive Detroit. less
Home Cooking - Autoline This Week 1542

Home Cooking - Autoline This Week 1542

Autoline This Week, broadcasting from the Frankfurt Motor Show, features an insightful discussion with three key automotive executives: Jonathan Brown... ing (Volkswagen), Ian Robertson (BMW), and Johan de Nysschen (Audi). The conversation highlights Volkswagen's strategic focus on the US market, underscored by their new plant in Chattanooga and the tailored Passat model, aiming for global leadership by 2018. BMW's Ian Robertson details the company's aggressive push into electric vehicles with the new 'i' sub-brand, emphasizing the innovative use of carbon fiber to offset battery weight and improve range, alongside a forward-looking strategy incorporating front-wheel-drive platforms for smaller models. Johan de Nysschen of Audi discusses the brand's significant growth in the US, its rise to the number two luxury position globally, and the increasing importance of performance 'S' models. The executives also touch upon future trends like downsizing for urban commuting and the challenges and opportunities presented by electric mobility and evolving consumer preferences. less
The End of the Line? Autoline This Week 1541

The End of the Line? Autoline This Week 1541

This episode of Autoline This Week features a provocative discussion with Tom Crumb, author of "What is Good for General Motors," who argues... for the radical dismantling of the traditional moving assembly line. Crumb contends that the assembly line, while revolutionary in its time, is fundamentally inefficient and a root cause of labor strife. He proposes a return to more integrated, localized, and adaptable manufacturing processes, akin to a "moving room" concept, where workers have more direct feedback and control, fostering a learning environment. The discussion touches on the potential for this model in electric vehicles and smaller-volume production, contrasting it with the current mass-production paradigm. While the concept is revolutionary, the practicality for mass-market affordability and consumer ordering habits remains a key question. less
Leaving Livonia - Autoline After Hours 121

Leaving Livonia - Autoline After Hours 121

Autoline After Hours episode 121 marks the final broadcast from their Leonia, Michigan facility, with the team relocating to a new office. The discuss... ion centers heavily on the ongoing UAW contract negotiations with GM, Ford, and Chrysler. While the GM contract was ratified, providing a positive credit rating bump, the process with Ford and Chrysler is still ongoing, marked by the unique negotiation tactics and rhetoric typical of the auto industry. A significant portion of the show is dedicated to Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne's frustrations with the slow pace of negotiations and his perceived 'stand-up' by UAW President Bob King, highlighted by a strongly worded letter from Marchionne. The panel also touches upon the challenges faced by dealers with the Fiat 500 launch, the potential for a new Lincoln luxury car, and the surprising strength of new vehicle sales despite economic concerns, with a particular focus on the Ford Fusion's potential success and its possible production move to the US. less
Turning Oil Into Salt - Open Line 4

Turning Oil Into Salt - Open Line 4

This episode of Open Line features a compelling discussion with former CIA Director Jim Woolsey, who advocates for a swift transition away from oil de... pendence, emphasizing national security and economic benefits. Woolsey highlights methanol, derived from natural gas, as a promising alternative liquid fuel, particularly when paired with electric powertrains in plug-in hybrids like the Chevrolet Volt. He praises the Volt's electric range and its role in reducing reliance on foreign oil, though he expresses a wish for more flexible fuel options. The conversation also touches upon the challenges of consumer adoption, the environmental considerations of fracking, and the potential of biofuels. While Woolsey's perspective is rooted in security and economics, the discussion provides a unique viewpoint on the future of automotive fuels. less
Alfa-Bet Soup - Autoline After Hours 119

Alfa-Bet Soup - Autoline After Hours 119

This episode of Autoline After Hours, with Peter De Lorenzo joined by Sharon Terlep and Gary Vasilash, delves into a variety of automotive topics. A s... ignificant portion discusses the Maserati Kubang concept, with panelists debating its potential success against Porsche's Cayenne, considering Maserati's limited dealer network and brand perception. The conversation also touches on the challenges and strategies of Volkswagen in the US market, particularly regarding platform sharing and brand differentiation. A key segment focuses on the upcoming Chevrolet Corvette, with the panel expressing skepticism about its ability to attract a younger demographic despite planned updates, citing affordability and practicality concerns. The discussion also covers the NADA's lobbying against fuel regulations, the growing importance of the Chinese market for GM, and the future of alternative powertrains like electric and hydrogen vehicles, with a particular focus on the Chevrolet Volt and its perceived value proposition. less
Bulli for Volkswagen - Autoline After Hours 118

Bulli for Volkswagen - Autoline After Hours 118

This episode of Autoline After Hours features a deep dive into Volkswagen's quality initiatives and market strategy with Executive Vice President... of Group Quality, Marc Trahan. Trahan addresses past perceptions of Volkswagen's quality, highlighting significant improvements, particularly in reducing repair frequency, citing data from CSI studies. He emphasizes a shift towards focusing on 'softer' quality aspects like intuitive human-machine interfaces, alongside traditional reliability. The discussion also covers the new Chattanooga plant, stressing a 'quality first, volume second' approach for the North American-specific Passat, which is built with a high percentage of locally sourced content. Trahan expresses optimism about Volkswagen's ambitious sales goals in the US, aiming for 800,000 units by 2018, while reiterating the importance of dealer profitability and overall business quality over sheer volume. The conversation touches upon electrification, diesel's role in the US market, and the potential for future Audi models in the US, while ruling out immediate production of concepts like the Bulli. less
Hey, You're Not Clay! - Autoline After Hours 117

Hey, You're Not Clay! - Autoline After Hours 117

This episode of Autoline After Hours features a lively discussion with industry veterans John McElroy, Peter De Lorenzo, and guest David Welch. The co... nversation delves into the strategic implications of concept cars like the Cadillac Ciel and Ford Evos, with the hosts debating whether revealing future design directions too early gives competitors an advantage. They praise the Ciel's bold, American luxury aesthetic and its potential influence on the next-generation CTS and a future super-luxury sedan, while also noting its resemblance to classic Lincolns. The Ford Evos concept is lauded for its striking design, particularly its front and rear graphics, signaling a new Ford design language, though concerns are raised about the practicality of its fastback roofline for a production sedan. The panel also touches on broader industry trends, including the impact of car-sharing services like Zipcar, the challenges facing electric and hybrid vehicles, and the ongoing evolution of engine technology and brand identity, particularly for Cadillac and Lincoln. less
Reach Out - Autoline 1535

Reach Out - Autoline 1535

This episode of Autoline features UAW Vice President Cindy Estrada discussing the union's strategies for rebuilding membership, particularly focu... sing on organizing suppliers, public, and healthcare workers. Estrada highlights the challenges posed by global competition and the pressure on suppliers to cut costs, which often impacts worker wages and benefits. She expresses frustration with corporate executives who prioritize high salaries while seeking concessions from workers, emphasizing the need for shared sacrifice. The discussion touches upon the UAW's evolving organizing tactics, including a more strategic approach to campaigns and potential collaborations with international unions. Estrada also addresses the issue of temporary workers and the union's goal of ensuring workers earn a living wage that doesn't require public subsidies. While acknowledging the difficulty in balancing job security with wage increases, she remains optimistic about creating a system where both are achievable. The conversation also briefly covers the union's involvement in political campaigns and Estrada's personal journey within the labor movement. less
Goatees and Fancy Scarves - Autoline After Hours 116

Goatees and Fancy Scarves - Autoline After Hours 116

Autoline After Hours episode 116 features a compelling discussion with D. Mark Trostle, Roush's new head of design. Trostle, with a rich history ... designing iconic performance cars like the Buick GNX and Chevy SSR, shares insights into Roush's diverse capabilities beyond racing, highlighting their vertical integration and custom vehicle services. The conversation also touches upon the automotive news of the week, including the Ford-Toyota hybrid truck partnership, the conservative styling of the new Toyota Camry, and the striking Cadillac Ciel concept, which is seen as a strong indicator of the brand's future flagship sedan. Trostle expresses his passion for niche and American performance vehicles, emphasizing the importance of design as a key differentiator in an increasingly homogenized automotive market. The episode underscores the evolving landscape of automotive design and manufacturing, with a particular focus on American heritage and innovation. less
A Primer on Painting - Autoline After Hours 113

A Primer on Painting - Autoline After Hours 113

This episode of Autoline After Hours features a deep dive into the world of automotive art with guest David Snyder, a renowned painter specializing in... realistic automotive tableaus. Snyder details his meticulous process, emphasizing extensive research into historical details like signage, gas pumps, and specific car parts to ensure authenticity. He explains his technique, which goes beyond photo-realism to capture the essence and narrative of a scene, often drawing from personal memories and historical archives. The discussion also touches upon the automotive news of the week, including market volatility on Wall Street, soft July car sales, Toyota's surprising sales strength, and critiques of Honda's recent product lineup. A significant portion is dedicated to environmental discussions, with John DeCicco presenting data suggesting battery electric vehicles offer minimal greenhouse gas advantages over turbo diesels in the US due to electricity generation methods. The show also covers industry news like Sergio Marchionne's warnings about China's automotive market growth and the challenges facing Mercedes-Benz in regaining its premium image. The latter half includes a segment on Ford's PR efforts with Alan Mulally and a contractor's skepticism about the long-term viability of solar and wind energy incentives for automotive plants. less
Bring Back the El Camino! - Open Line 3

Bring Back the El Camino! - Open Line 3

This episode of Open Line features Nick Richards, Buick's Communications Manager, discussing GM's diverse vehicle portfolio, from Hummer to ... the Volt and Buick's current offerings. A significant portion of the conversation revolves around Buick's 'eAssist' technology, with Richards clarifying its positioning as an efficiency enhancer rather than a traditional hybrid. The discussion highlights the challenges of communicating new technologies to different consumer segments and the strategic decisions behind Buick's luxury-focused approach with models like the LaCrosse and Verano. Callers express strong opinions on potential future models, including a desire for a rear-wheel-drive sedan and the return of the El Camino. The segment also touches upon the El Camino's potential market appeal and the strategic importance of pricing and product offerings in attracting a broader customer base, particularly in markets like Southern California. less
Time Vampire - Autoline After Hours 112

Time Vampire - Autoline After Hours 112

This episode of Autoline After Hours delves into the significant impact of future CAFE standards on the automotive industry, with insights from Jay Ba... ron of the Center for Automotive Research and Mark Perry of Nissan. Baron highlights that meeting these stringent fuel economy mandates will likely lead to substantial price increases for vehicles, potentially impacting jobs. He emphasizes the shift towards electrification, hybrids, and advanced materials like carbon fiber, while noting the high costs associated with these technologies. Perry discusses Nissan's experience with the LEAF, confirming that demand has outstripped supply and that early adopters are finding it to be a practical, cost-saving primary vehicle, with range anxiety proving less of an issue than anticipated. Both guests agree that while technological advancements are necessary, the increased costs will be passed on to consumers, and the industry faces significant challenges in balancing regulatory demands with affordability and market acceptance. less
A New Kind of Car Industry - Autoline After Hours 111

A New Kind of Car Industry - Autoline After Hours 111

Autoline After Hours presents a unique discussion on the future of automotive manufacturing and motorsport innovation. The episode features insights f... rom Tom Crumm, author of "What is Good for General Motors?", who advocates for a return to craft-based, small-team vehicle assembly, challenging the efficiency and human cost of the traditional moving assembly line. His proposal emphasizes reduced investment, increased worker pride, and greater vehicle variety through flexible tooling and CNC machines. Contrasting this is the discussion around the DeltaWing race car concept, presented by Duncan Dayton of Highcroft Racing. The DeltaWing is highlighted for its radical, efficient design, aiming for significantly reduced drag, weight, and fuel consumption while maintaining prototype-level speeds. Its participation in the Le Mans 24 Hours via the 56th garage entry is seen as a significant technological exploration. The episode also touches upon the challenges of modern manufacturing, including worker alienation, the role of unions, and the need for a skilled workforce, suggesting that Crumm's ideas could offer a path forward for both the auto industry and potentially other manufacturing sectors. less
Chain Links - Autoline 1529

Chain Links - Autoline 1529

This Autoline episode features a comprehensive discussion with Peter Marks, Chairman, President, and CEO of Bosch for the Americas. The conversation d... elves into Bosch's significant role as a global automotive supplier and its diverse technological involvement, spanning advanced gasoline and diesel engines, hybrids, and electric vehicles. Marks emphasizes that while internal combustion engines will remain dominant for the next two decades, with potential for 30% efficiency improvements, electric vehicles are the long-term future. He acknowledges the current challenges in battery cost and energy density but highlights ongoing efforts to make EVs competitive. The discussion also touches upon the US diesel market's potential, Bosch's manufacturing strategy balancing US and Mexican plants, and the importance of close engineering-production ties for semiconductor manufacturing. Marks addresses supply chain resilience post-Japan earthquake, the evolving supplier-automaker relationship, and Bosch's approach to human-machine interface (HMI) through voice recognition. Beyond automotive, the interview explores Bosch's ventures in power tools, security systems, healthcare monitoring, and e-bikes, showcasing a strategy driven by technological synergy and diversification. less
Down the Road - Autoline Detroit 1527

Down the Road - Autoline Detroit 1527

This episode of Autoline Detroit features a panel of industry analysts discussing the volatile automotive market. The primary focus is on the recent s... lowdown in car sales, with discussions exploring potential causes such as the Japanese earthquake's impact on inventory, rising fuel prices, and broader economic concerns. The analysts suggest that while inventory shortages and lower incentives play a role, the economy might be a more significant long-term drag. They also touch upon the increasing content in vehicles, particularly in smaller, more affordable segments, and the growing demand for fuel efficiency across all vehicle types. The discussion also delves into the nascent market for hybrids and electric vehicles, noting their slow adoption despite fuel efficiency demands, attributed to factors like price, range anxiety, and the increasing efficiency of gasoline-powered alternatives. The future of EVs, especially in China, and the challenges and opportunities in emerging markets like India are also explored. less
Cue the Theremin Music - Autoline After Hours 108

Cue the Theremin Music - Autoline After Hours 108

Autoline After Hours 108 delves into the future of urban mobility with GM's EN-V program, featuring guest Chris Borroni-Bird. The discussion high... lights the EN-V's potential as small, electric, networked vehicles designed for densely populated cities, addressing challenges like congestion and parking. While the concept is lauded for its innovative approach and potential affordability (under $10,000 target), its viability hinges on technological proof, market development, and regulatory frameworks. The program also touches upon the complexities of autonomous vehicle interaction with vulnerable road users and the ongoing debate surrounding GM's leadership and product development under CEO Dan Akerson. The JD Power Initial Quality Survey results, particularly Ford's drop due to infotainment issues, are also analyzed, emphasizing the challenges of intuitive user interfaces in modern vehicles. less
Good on Ya, Mate (Part 2) - Autoline After Hours 107

Good on Ya, Mate (Part 2) - Autoline After Hours 107

This episode of Autoline After Hours features a deep dive into the Australian automotive market, with a particular focus on the future of Ford Austral... ia and Holden. The discussion highlights the historical significance and engineering prowess of these local operations, including the development of iconic models like the Falcon and Commodore. However, the conversation is tinged with concern over the potential demise of local production due to economic factors like the strong Australian dollar and global corporate strategies. The episode also touches upon the success of Hyundai and Kia in Australia, the challenges faced by European brands, and the burgeoning presence of Chinese manufacturers. A significant portion is dedicated to the V8 Supercar series, praised for its close racing and unique Australian character, though concerns are raised about its increasing divergence from production car relevance. The latter half of the show addresses audience questions, covering topics such as the potential sale of Opel, GM's brand strategy in the US, and the enduring appeal of rear-wheel-drive vehicles. less
Good on Ya, Mate (Part 1) - Autoline After Hours 107

Good on Ya, Mate (Part 1) - Autoline After Hours 107

This episode of Autoline After Hours features a discussion on the automotive landscape in Australia and the challenges of electric vehicle adoption. P... eter Robinson from Australia highlights the historical significance of Ford and Holden in the Australian market and the failed attempts to integrate US platforms. A key point of contention is the environmental impact of EVs, particularly in countries like Australia and China that rely heavily on coal for power generation. The hosts criticize California's EV mandate, deeming it unsustainable and unaffordable, and question the 'zero emission' label for EVs when their electricity source is fossil fuel-based. The segment also touches upon the delays in battery plant construction by Nissan and Renault, and the potential impact of stricter CAFE standards on car prices. Overall, the discussion expresses skepticism about the current push for EVs, especially in regions with non-renewable energy sources. less