BACK WHEN FIAT DID NOT WANT CHRYSLER - AUTOLINE AFTER HOURS 339

EV Channels Review

This Autoline After Hours episode delves into the complex history and potential future of the automotive industry, featuring insights from Steve Miller, former CEO of IAC, and other industry veterans. The discussion revisits Fiat's past attempt to merge with Chrysler in 1991, highlighting Giovanni Agnelli's concerns about Chrysler's liabilities, which proved prescient when Daimler later acquired the company for a significantly higher price. The conversation also touches upon Chrysler's strategic shift towards focusing on profitable segments like Jeeps and trucks, a move that Miller had advocated for years prior. The latter half of the episode explores the transformative impact of autonomous driving and ride-sharing on vehicle interiors, envisioning them as more lounge-like spaces. A significant portion is dedicated to Tesla, with skepticism expressed regarding its ambitious expansion plans and the sustainability of its business model without government subsidies, particularly concerning the Model 3's pricing and competition. The episode concludes with a debate on regulatory approaches to fuel economy, favoring fuel taxes over mandates.