Kilowatt: A Podcast about Electric Vehicles

Description:In this episode, I analyze General Motors' third quarter 2024 earnings call, focusing on its financial performance and strategic direction. I highlight shifts towards genuine fiscal metrics, GM’s advancements in autonomous driving through Cruise, and optimistic expectations for reducing EV losses. We discuss initiatives addressing range anxiety and production adjustments related to potential tariffs, while also navigating the political landscape's impact on operations. I reflect on GM’s commitment to improvement and conclude with insights from Mary Barra’s remarks on quality and profitability moving into 2025. Join me as we unpack key takeaways from this pivotal earnings call.Support the Show:PatreonAcast+Other Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle PlaylistNews:GM's Q3 2024 Earnings Call

Description:In this episode of Kilowatt, I cover key developments in the electric vehicle sector, starting with Waymo's $5.6 billion funding to expand autonomous driving tests. I highlight Ford's $15,000 incentive for fleet operators buying the F-150 Lightning Pro, and discuss the upcoming Lucid Gravity SUV amid increased competition. Next, I address safety violations at Rivian's factory and Volkswagen's challenges with layoffs and competition from Chinese automakers. I also introduce Scout Motors, reviving the International Scout brand with a focus on efficient 800-volt architecture. Finally, I preview the next episode on General Motors' positive strides in the EV market.Support the Show:PatreonAcast+Other Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle PlaylistMedia: Scout Motors Reveal VideoNews:Waymo get's billions in fundingVW to shut factory in Brussels downVW set to start massive layoffsNIO launching a new Onvo branded SUV in 2025NIO Headed to the Middle East and North AfricaLucid Air GravityFord Gives F-150 Lightning Pro Discount to Fleets Operators Rivian's factory safety called into question Scout Motors Part 1Scout Motors Part 2

Description:In this episode, We analyze Tesla's Q3 2024 earnings call, focusing on record deliveries and key developments following the 10/10 Robotaxi event. The ambitious targets for the CyberCab service are scrutinized, as we question the sustainability of Tesla’s projections. Throughout, we highlight the balance in Tesla's leadership communication, cautioning against over-promising in the electric and autonomous vehicleSupport the Show:PatreonAcast+Other Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle PlaylistNews:Tesla's Q3 2024 Earnings Call

Description:In this episode of Kilowatt, I analyze Tesla's ambitious plans for autonomous vehicles following the controversial We, Robot event. I aim to fill the gaps left by the event's vague details, especially regarding the CyberCab and its wireless charging design. There’s a focus on how FSD operations, like Autopark, enhance the overall autonomous experience, contrasted with mixed feedback concerning Tesla's full self-driving technology claims. Discussions also address regulatory challenges and safety concerns surrounding these advancements.Support the Show:PatreonAcast+Other Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle PlaylistNews:Tesla needs to deploy lobbyist's for CybercabTesla wants to flood the streets with CybercabFSD is more dangerous as it gets betterWe, Robot and movie ripoffsTesla sued by Blade Runner producersWere Optimus robots controlled by humans?Tesla's wire charging solution is 90% efficientWill Robovan fit in a Boring Tunnel?Inspiration behind RobovanTesla has a lot to prove on RobotaxiTesla's stock dipTesla FSD requires an intervention every 13 milesNHTSA and FSD Investigation 1NHTSA and FSD Investigation 2

Description:In this episode, I explore the recent wave of executive departures at Tesla, analyzing how these changes impact the company and the electric vehicle industry at large. I discuss notable exits, such as Drew Baglino, Rohan Patel, and Rebecca Tanucci, highlighting the speculation surrounding their departures and the intense work environment orchestrated by Elon Musk. I reflect on the promotion of key figures like Ashok Elluswamy and Omead Afshar, emphasizing the balance between loyalty and qualification within the corporate structure. Additionally, I shed light on the upcoming RoboTaxi event and its implications for both Tesla and regulatory challenges ahead. The episode encapsulates my gratitude for the listener community, featuring a personal anecdote from a recent lunch with a listener, and looks forward to navigating the deluge of information from Tesla's future earnings calls and industry developments.Support the Show:PatreonAcast+Other Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle PlaylistNews:Milan Kovac is now VP of OptimusAshok Elluswamy Promoted to VP of AI SoftwareOmead Afshar Promoted to VP of OperationsDaniel Ho Leaves Tesla for WaymoDavid Zhang Moving OnTesla Execs Departing the Company

Description:In this episode of Kilowatt, we discuss my experience upgrading to a Tesla-compatible garage door opener, revealing tips for troubleshooting tech issues. I discusses the new Lyten battery plant in Reno aimed at producing lithium-sulfur batteries. We also discuss NIO's plans for an ultra-affordable EV by December 2024 and the ID Buzz now available for configuration. We outline GM's Super Cruise ADAS, the upcoming Chevy Bolt family, and the Chevy Silverado EV's pricing and range. Finally we talk about GM discontinuing the Ultium platform in favor of program-specific batteries and a shift to cost-effective lithium-iron-phosphate technology. Support the Show:PatreonAcast+Other Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle PlaylistNews:NIO's FireflyLithium-Sulfur Battery Factory in RenoID.Buzz ConfiguratorChevy Boly Refresh2026 Chevy BoltGM L3 Supercruise2025 Chevy Silverado EV Starts at $57,000GM Powerbank 1GM Powerbank 2GM Ultium Story 1GM Ultium Story 2GM Ultium Story 3GM Ultium Story 4

Description:In this episode of Kilowatt, We talk about Rivian's new Georgia plant for their R2 and R3 models, expected by 2028. I highlight a 30.5% rise in global EV sales for September, driven by strong demand in China, and discuss a Nissan LEAF recall. We also cover attractive leasing options for the Fiat 500E and Subaru Solterra, and IOANNA's initiative to create a modern charging station in North Carolina. Additionally, I address labor relations at Tesla in Sweden and share my excitement for upcoming CES coverage.Support the Show:PatreonAcast+Other Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle PlaylistNews:Rivian R2 and R3 will be built in Normal, IL (For Now)Rivian closer to restarting Georgia plantFiat and Subaru leasesLucid Air Pure leaseIONNA Rechargery 1IONNA Rechargery 2Nissan Leaf recallSeptembers Global EV SalesTesla can't force PostNord to deliver license platesIF Metall sues TeslaTesla labor issues in SwedenSwedish strike didn't impact Tesla's sales

Description:In this episode of Kilowatt, we delve into Tesla's much-anticipated We, Robot event, a gathering particularly focused on their latest offerings in the realm of autonomous vehicles, including the much-discussed Cyber Cab. I share my personal challenges leading up to this episode, highlighting the technical difficulties I encountered that caused considerable frustration—even leading to dreams about the event itself! Despite these issues, I aim to provide a comprehensive overview of Tesla's vision for the future of transport.We kick off our discussion with the critical details surrounding the event itself, noting that Tesla has a history of starting late. However, this time the delay was attributed to a medical emergency in the audience. I share some interesting viewing statistics—approximately 108,000 viewers on YouTube and around 2 million on X. We then embark on a play-by-play of the event, starting with the introduction of Elon Musk by Tesla’s head designer, Franz von Holzhausen. Musk's dramatic entrance in a Cyber Cab adds to the excitement, setting the stage for what promises to be a significant announcement regarding unsupervised full self-driving capabilities.Musk makes bold claims about the transformative potential of autonomous vehicles, underlining the inefficiencies of current car usage—averaging only about 10 hours per week. He presents autonomous vehicles as a means to significantly increase efficiency and reduce the costs associated with car ownership, including insurance and maintenance. The Cyber Cab, unlike traditional vehicles, bears no steering wheel or pedals, granting passengers an exhilarating ride experience and a taste of the future of mobility. I discuss the aesthetics and functionality of the Cyber Cab, which merges features of both the Model 3 and Cybertruck while emphasizing its lack of rear windows and distinctive butterfly doors.As Musk touches on the broader implications of autonomous driving, he highlights the potential for cityscapes to shift dramatically. With fewer vehicles needing parking spaces, we delve into the fascinating prospect of converting parking lots into green spaces, creating a more pleasant urban environment. During the presentation, we also learn about the new Roboven design, which aims to serve high-density transport needs. I provide insights into this intriguing vehicle that functions as a cross between a mini-bus and a futuristic transport solution, reflecting Tesla's ambition to revolutionize public transit.Musk's vision extends beyond vehicles, underscored by his introduction of the Optimus robot—a humanoid robot powered by the same technology that drives Tesla’s cars. He asserts that this robot will be capable of performing everyday tasks and may be available at a price point equivalent to that of a car. While I share excitement for the possibilities, I maintain a healthy skepticism about the timeline and feasibility of these advancements, noting that much of what was presented served more as a status update rather than groundbreaking news.Support the Show:PatreonAcast+Other Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle PlaylistNews:We, Robot Event

Description:In this episode of Kilowatt, we cover the latest in electric vehicles and renewable energy, starting with Ford's Q3 2024 sales, which show a minor decline despite strong model performances. Kia celebrates record sales for its EV9 and EV6, along with the launch of its first EV-only factory in South Korea. I discuss a proposed California bill for bidirectional charging and the European Commission's new tariffs on Chinese vehicles. In addition, there are updates on Tesla include Model Y availability in the UK and plans for a diner drive-in theater with superchargers in LA. I also explore advancements in battery technology with the new dry cathode 4680 cells and look forward to the upcoming RoboTaxi event. Support the Show:PatreonAcast+Other Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle PlaylistNews:EU Tariffs on Chinese EVsCalifornia May Require Bi-Directional EV ChargingKia's September SalesKia's EV Only FactoryFord's EV SalesTesla 4680 Dry Cathode CellsTesla Diner UpdateRoboTaxi and McDonaldsTesla CIO Exits the CompanyModel Y Long Range RWD Lands in the UKTesla Discontinues Model 3 Standard RWD