Kilowatt: A Podcast about Electric Vehicles

In this episode of Kilowatt, we dive into the latest updates and announcements from Tesla, Polestar, and Scout Motors. Tesla enthusiasts will be excited to hear that the company is planning to allow gifting of FSD subscriptions and has introduced Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality in the Model Y L through a software update. The upcoming next-generation Roadster is also back in the spotlight, with Elon Musk teasing an "unforgettable" demo and new job listings hinting at production plans. Meanwhile, Polestar's 2026 Polestar 4 is receiving attention—both praise and criticism—for its unique design choices. Scout Motors makes waves with over 130,000 reservations, with a surprising majority preferring gas engines, and a focus on tactile buttons over touchscreen controls.Support the ShowSupport KilowattOther Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post Podcast918Digital WebsiteNews Links:The 2026 Polestar 4 Might Be The Automaker's Best EV Yet.I Drove The Polestar 4 in Austin, Texas, Here’s My First Drive ReviewTesla Will Soon Allow You to Gift FSD SubscriptionsTesla Adds Vehicle-to-Load (V2L)NIO Scores Record Deliveries, Up 93%Scout Motors Has 130,000 Reservations. Nearly All Want The Gas Engine‘Everything's On A Screen’: Here’s Why Scout’s New Cars Will Have Good-Old ButtonsTesla hints it could see ‘a few more vehicles’ released soonTesla posts job opening for next-generation Roadster productionTesla Fremont Factory celebrates 15 years of electric vehicle productionTesla Design Chief Confirms Updated Roadster Reveal Still Happening This Year

Description:In this episode, we dive into General Motors' Q3 2025 earnings call. CEO Mary Barra outlines GM’s strategy for navigating a rapidly evolving EV landscape. Topics include Ultium platform developments, Cruise's autonomous vehicle updates, North American production goals, and financial performance across key segments. The company addresses recent challenges with EV adoption and outlines plans to balance innovation with profitability. Listeners will gain insight into GM’s market position, near-term goals, and long-term vision in a competitive automotive industry.Support the Showwww.supportkilowatt.comOther Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteNews Links:GM Q3 2025 Earnings Call – YouTubeShow Art Created By Dall-e

In this episode, we dive into the latest developments in electric and autonomous vehicle technology. Uber selects the first city for its Lucid Gravity robotaxi rollout, signaling a major step forward in driverless ride-hailing. Meanwhile, Tesla's Full Self-Driving v14 continues to underwhelm with reports of erratic behavior including braking and hallucinations. Kia makes headlines with its electric van setting a Guinness World Record for range. We also look at Lucid’s ambitions to deliver a ‘mind-off’ autonomous driving experience with Nvidia’s tech. And for a deeper understanding of EV range testing, a YouTube breakdown of WLTP and EPA procedures is featured. Buckle up for a packed episode full of EV insights.Support the Showwww.supportkilowatt.comOther Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteOther Links:Dandy Fun HouseOut of Spec Reviews WLTP RatingNews Links:Uber chooses first market to deploy its Lucid Gravity robotaxisTesla Full Self-Driving v14 disappoints with hallucinations, brake stabbing, and speedingKia’s New Electric Van Just Set a Guinness World Record for RangeLucid Wants To Sell The First 'Mind-Off' Autonomous Car With Nvidia's HelpTesla Full Self-Driving v14.1 first impressions: Robotaxi-like features arriveHere’s How Electric Cars Are WLTP / EPA Range Tested! (YouTube)

Tesla's Q3 2025 Earnings CallIn this episode, we dive deep into Tesla's Q3 2025 earnings call, where company leadership outlines financial performance, production and delivery metrics, and strategic developments. Elon Musk and other executives provide updates on Tesla's global operations, the ramp-up of key models like the Cybertruck, and progress on AI and Full Self-Driving initiatives. Analysts pose questions on Tesla's energy business, profitability, and long-term vision. The call also includes insights into factory efficiencies, supply chain dynamics, and new technologies shaping Tesla’s future. If you're a Tesla enthusiast or investor, this episode breaks down all the essential takeaways from the Q3 earnings report.Support the Showwww.supportkilowatt.comOther Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteNews Links:Tesla Q3 2025 Earnings Call Webcast

Description:In this episode of Kilowatt, we cover some surprising developments in the EV world. General Motors has shut down production of its BrightDrop electric delivery vans, citing slow demand despite recent scaling efforts. We also take a look at the heavily updated 2027 Chevy Bolt, which—while maintaining affordability—presents notable engineering challenges. Finally, we explore what Nissan is getting right with the 2026 Leaf and how it positions itself in the evolving EV market. Join us as we unpack the latest shifts in electric vehicle strategy, design, and market expectations.Support the Show:www.supportkilowatt.comOther Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteNews Links:GM kills BrightDrop electric van production, blames ‘slow demand’ as sales were rampingWhat The 2026 Nissan Leaf Gets RightThe Affordable 2027 Chevy Bolt Is A Heavy Update To The Old One. That Wasn't Easy

Description:In this episode of Kilowatt, we explore some of the most exciting developments in the electric vehicle world. Tesla is stirring debate by potentially eliminating key cards from new vehicles, pushing digital access even further. The Full Self-Driving V14.1.2 update is rolling out, bringing back the notorious Mad Max Mode and expanding access to more owners. Meanwhile, General Motors is betting big on LMR batteries, which could make midsize EV trucks a reality. We also dig into the latest details on the upcoming Chevy Bolt models—including faster charging and a sub-$30,000 price tag. Plus, a rundown of the 10 best-selling EVs of 2025 offers insight into consumer preferences as the market continues to shift.Support the Showwww.supportkilowatt.comOther Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteNews Links:LMR Batteries Could Unlock Midsize EV Trucks, GM President SaysTesla might be doing away with a long-included feature with its vehiclesThe 10 Best-selling EVs of 2025Tesla May No Longer Include Key Cards With New VehiclesTesla Launches FSD V14.1.2; Brings Back Mad Max ModeTesla widens rollout of new Full Self-Driving suite to more ownersNew Chevy Bolt Less Than $30,000, Has Faster Charging (Video)The 2027 Chevy Bolt Will Be ‘Limited Run’ OnlyThe 2027 Chevy Bolt Is Already Managing Expectations

Episode Summary:In this episode, Efrat Avnet Steinberg, co-founder and CEO of Inner, reveals how Inner's large-format X-ray scanning technology combined with machine learning and AI is transforming EV battery inspections. Inner’s advanced imaging technology exposes hidden flaws that traditional electrical tests may miss which boosts both safety and reliability. We explore how Inner adapted its medical imaging expertise for mobility applications, what their CT-style scans detect inside battery packs, and why that insight is critical for preventing recalls and achieving zero-defect manufacturing. Efrat shares second-life and recycling strategies throughout the battery lifecycle. She also details current deployments, scan speeds, and efficiency gains before wrapping up with practical advice on where to follow Inner’s ongoing progress.Support the Show:https://www.supportkilowatt.com/Other Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteGuest Links:Efrat Avnet Steinberg — LinkedInInner — LinkedInInner — Official Site

Episode Summary:In this episode, Jeremy Michalek, a professor at Carnegie Mellon University, joins the show to discuss the economic and environmental trade-offs of electric vehicles (EVs). He explores the comparative benefits of hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and full battery EVs, emphasizing that the optimal choice often depends on individual driving habits and regional electricity sources. Jeremy also delves into the limitations of current EV subsidies and policies, suggesting more efficient alternatives. Additionally, he touches on the lifecycle impacts of EVs, including battery production and grid emissions, and offers insights into the role of public transit and autonomous vehicles in future mobility. This conversation provides a nuanced perspective on electrification and sustainable transport policy.Support the Showwww.supportkilowatt.comOther Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteGuest Links:Jeremy Michalek Faculty Page at CMUJeremy Michalek’s Research Group WebsiteVehicle Electrification Group at Carnegie Mellon

Description:Allison Sheridan of Podfeet.com joins the show to share her in-depth impressions of the Nissan Ariya. In this episode, we discuss Allison's extensive test drive experience, diving into the Ariya's tech features, driving performance, and design. She highlights how it compares to other EVs she’s reviewed, including accessibility for new EV drivers. We also touch on how Nissan’s approach differs from competitors and what makes the Ariya stand out in today’s crowded EV market. Allison brings her unique tech-savvy perspective and an engaging storytelling style to this deep-dive on one of Nissan's most compelling electric offerings.Support the Showwww.supportkilowatt.comOther Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteGuest:Allison Sheridan – Tech podcaster and writer at Podfeet.com