CARSGUIDE PODCAST: TOOLS IN THE SHED EP. 90

EV Channels Review

This episode of CarsGuide Podcast's 'Tools in the Shed' delves into the declining relevance of diesel engines in the Australian market, noting a significant drop in sales across segments, attributed to manufacturers phasing out diesel options and a general consumer shift towards hybrids and EVs. The discussion highlights the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel's limitations, particularly its reduced towing capacity and higher price point compared to V8 variants. The podcast also covers the Australian new car sales landscape for the first half of 2019, revealing Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger as leading 4x4 sales, with the Mazda 3 surprisingly taking third place. The hosts express disappointment in the low sales of several models, including the Subaru Levorg and Kia Rondo, while also reviewing vehicles driven this week: the BMW Z4 (deemed overpriced compared to the Mazda MX-5), the Toyota Corolla Hybrid (praised for driving dynamics but criticized for size and boot space), and the Ford Focus Active (seen as a half-hearted attempt at an SUV crossover). The 'MuskWatch' segment reports on Tesla's Q2 production and delivery records exceeding expectations, and Elon Musk's updated claims about the Roadster's acceleration, alongside news of SpaceX losing contact with three StarLink satellites.