Share

cover art for Kilowatt 49th Annual ThanksGiving Extravaganza

Kilowatt: A Podcast about Electric Vehicles

Kilowatt 49th Annual ThanksGiving Extravaganza

Ep. 588
•

Links:

Allison - https://www.podfeet.com/blog/

Steve - https://www.youtube.com/@UC2Vt-a7IXAKZH7EgvrTPpug

Sierra - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sierra-laduke


In this episode, we dive into our special Thanksgiving extravaganza for Kilowatt, the podcast exploring the realms of electric vehicles, renewable energy, and autonomous driving, among other fascinating topics. I am joined by my guests Allison Sheridan, Steve Sheridan, and Sierra LaDuke, and together we engage in a fun and competitive Jeopardy-like trivia game, where knowledge meets laughter. This episode marks our 49th annual Thanksgiving extravaganza, and while the stakes are low, the camaraderie and banter are at an all-time high.


Humor is a key player in this episode, evident in our discussions, where teasing each other becomes an entertaining dynamic. I encouraged a bit of playful trash talk, leading to some uproarious exchanges and an unexpected twist at the end of the game.


This Thanksgiving special is about laughter, competition, and the gratitude we hold for each other and our listeners.


Chapters:

00:00:00 Kilowatt 588

00:00:26 Thanksgiving Extravaganza

00:02:52 Trivia Game Rules

00:02:58 Game Time Begins

00:07:51 Contestant Introductions

00:11:12 Warm-Up Question

00:12:22 Game On!

00:27:21 Pop Culture Trivia

00:32:30 Animal Facts Round

00:41:07 Concession Speeches

00:49:20 Closing Thoughts and Thanks

More episodes

View all episodes

  • 592. Allison Sheridan's FSD Adventures

    20:56||Ep. 592
    Description:In this episode of Kilowatt, I explore Tesla's full self-driving (FSD) software with enthusiast Allison Sheridan. We discuss her journey as a Tesla driver, detailing her experiences with the FSD system and the significant changes she’s noticed with recent updates. Allison reflects on her previous encounters with FSD's erratic performance and contrasts them with her latest experiences, highlighting both alarming incidents and Tesla's ongoing improvements. We also touch on the future of autonomous driving with anticipated hardware upgrades and the impact of electric innovations on environmental sustainability, including Allison's insights from an interview about an electric dredger at CES. This conversation delves into the evolving landscape of electric vehicles and the technology that shapes our future.Support the Show:PatreonAcast+New Podcast:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastLinks:Podfeet WebsiteSteve's Youtube Channel*The episode art was probably created by ChatGPT.

  • 591. How to Build an EV for Half the Price (Step 1: Be China)

    18:28||Ep. 591
    Description:Why are Chinese EVs so cheap? In this episode of Kilowatt, we break down the price gap between EVs in the U.S., Europe, and China, exploring how China’s dominance in battery production, supply chains, and government subsidies created the world’s largest and cheapest EV market. Plus, we dig into price wars, tech-packed interiors, and why Western automakers are struggling to keep up.Support the Show:PatreonAcast+Other Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteSources: Kelly Blue Book - How Much Are Electric CarsForbes - European EV Sales Forecast CutStatista - Electric Vehicles AsiaStatista - Projected battery cost 2016 - 2030CleanTechnica - Top 10 EV battery producersVox - Why China is winning the EV warReuters - China’s auto worker bear the brunt of price war as fallout widensWorld Economic Forum - China has an EV advantage but can it maintain its edgeGC.Auto - 6 reasons why Chinese EVs are so cheapCNN - A brutal elimination round is reshaping the world's biggest market for EVsReuters - What’s behind China’s failed “truce” in EV price warMarketWatch - How can China make EVs for less than $20,000

  • 590. The EV Battery Shallow Dive: Chemistry, Safety, and Marketing BS.

    17:18||Ep. 590
    Description:In this episode of Kilowatt, we break down the latest EV battery tech, including the pros and cons of LFP vs. NMC batteries, different battery cell form factors, and how BYD's Blade Battery is shaking things up. We’ll also discuss whether the Blade Battery is as fireproof as BYD claims (spoiler: probably not), and what’s coming next in battery innovation. Buckle up—it's time to geek out on EV power!Support the Show:PatreonAcast+Other Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteSources: QuantumScape - EV Battery Cell FormatsAutomotive Manufacturing Solutions - Top  5 EV battery chemistriesUfine Battery - BYD Blade Battery Comprehensive Guide

  • 589. Honk If You Love Privacy! (Too Late, Your Car Already Told On You)

    21:20||Ep. 589
    Description:Your car is spying on you—and not just in the ways you’d expect. From contact info and driving behavior to biometric data and facial recognition, modern vehicles are collecting more data than ever. In this episode, we dive into how automakers and even governments are using this data, including a lawsuit against GM for allegedly selling driver data to insurance companies. Plus, we explore security vulnerabilities in key fobs, EV chargers, and even Tesla’s software, where hackers have demonstrated alarming access to vehicle functions. Stay tuned to learn how to protect yourself from privacy risks and potential cyber threats in your own car.Support the Show:PatreonAcast+Other Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteSources: AP - In China, your car could be talking the governmentQuartz - A Chinese official explained how the country’s electric-car surveillance worksCar Scoops - More Venues Across China are Banning Tesla EVs over Security ConcernsWired - How Your New Car Tracks YouVPR - VehiclePrivacyReportTexas lawsuit - State of Texas v. GMCBS News - GM is selling driver data to insurers w/o consumers’ knowledge. Reuters - Tesla workers shared sensitive images recorded by customer carsUNR - Can EVs be hackedDark Reading - Tesla Gear Gets Hacked Multiple Times in Pwn2Own Contest

  • 588. Smoke, Solar, and Soul with Chris Ashley

    56:01||Ep. 588
    Description:In this episode, I talk with Chris Ashley, an electric vehicle enthusiast and food truck owner who uses the Ford F-150 Lightning to power his barbecue business. We discuss his transition from gasoline to electric energy, including the benefits and challenges of using anchor batteries and solar panels. Chris shares his culinary insights, blending Jamaican and regional barbecue styles, and highlights his engagement with the community through catering. We also touch on his podcasting ventures, illustrating the connection between technology and food in his entrepreneurial journey.Support the Show:PatreonAcast+Other Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle PlaylistChris's Previous Episodes:Episode 297: Allison Sheridan with Chris Ashley – Ford F150 Lightning EVEpisode 460: Chris Ashley's F-150 Lightning Towing AdventureLinks:BBQ and Tech WebsiteBBQ and Tech InstagramBBQ and Tech FaceBook

  • 587. GM's Q4 2024 Earnings Call

    38:07||Ep. 587
    Description:In this episode, I analyze General Motors Company's fourth quarter earnings call for 2024, highlighting CEO Mary Barra and CFO Paul Jacobson's insights on the shift in focus to Super Cruise technology and the discontinuation of RoboTaxi funding. I discuss GM's strong EV performance, achieving variable profit and reducing dealer inventory, along with the projected $2 billion in annual subscription revenue from Super Cruise. The episode also addresses the impact of political changes on EV strategies and GM’s commitment to advancing autonomous vehicle technology. I conclude with reflections on GM's flexibility in the market and their promising outlook for 2025.Support the Show:PatreonAcast+Other Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteNews:GM's Q4 2024 Earnings Call

  • 586. Bart Bought A Car

    01:01:07||Ep. 586
    Description:In this episode of Kilowatt, I talk with Bart Bouchotts about his journey to find the perfect electric vehicle, leading to his choice of the 2025 Polestar 2. Bart highlights the Polestar's sleek design, driving dynamics, and user-friendly technology, which enhance his driving experience compared to his previous Tesla Model 3. Bart concludes by emphasizing the importance of selecting an EV that truly meets the needs of electric vehicle drivers.Support the Show:PatreonAcast+Other Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle PlaylistBarts Previous Episodes:Ford Explorer EVVW ID.7BYD SealBart's EV JourneyBYD Atto 3Bart Needs a New CarBarts Links:Bart's Polestar Blog PostBart's WebsiteBartificer CreationsLets Talk (Bart's Apple and Photography Podcasts)Security Bits with Bart Busschots and Allison Sheridan

  • 585. The 2025 Lead the Charge Leaderboard

    52:05||Ep. 585
    Description:In this episode, I converse with Vuyisile Ncube from Earthworks and Glenn Hurowitz from Mighty Earth, focusing on environmental advocacy related to mineral and energy development. We explore the "Lead the Charge" initiative, which assesses automakers on their sustainability and human rights commitments through a comprehensive leaderboard. Notably, Tesla ranks highest at 43%, with Ford and Mercedes following. We delve into the significance of supply chain practices, particularly concerning Indigenous rights and the environmental impacts of industries like steel and aluminum. Our discussion also emphasizes the need for transparency and ethical sourcing in the auto industry, highlighting the potential for collaboration among advocacy groups, automakers, and consumers to foster a sustainable future.Support the Show:PatreonAcast+Other Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle PlaylistLinks:Lead the ChargeMighty EarthEarthworks

  • 584. CEO and Co-Founder of Harbinger: John Harris

    50:40||Ep. 584
    Description:In this episode, I speak with John Harris, the CEO of Harbinger Motors, about electric vehicle chassis development focused on medium-duty vehicles. John outlines Harbinger's mission to electrify a market that has seen little advancement in decades, highlighting practical applications like delivery services and specialty vehicles. We delve into his diverse background, which includes aerospace engineering and creative roles, providing insights into manufacturing challenges and cost management in the EV sector. John shares details about Harbinger's scalable battery architecture and innovative drive units designed for efficiency and durability. Additionally, we discuss the company's approach to reducing costs for commercial fleets and their plans for developing versatile cab chassis systems. Concluding our conversation, we explore the critical role of infrastructure in the electric vehicle transition and how Harbinger aims to facilitate this movement with specialized products.Support the Show:PatreonAcast+Other Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle PlaylistHarbinger Links:Harbinger (Website)Harbinger (Instagram)Harbinger (Facebook)Harbinger (LinkenIn)