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Description:

In this episode of Kilowatt, I discuss Volkswagen's negotiations with its labor union, the implications of keeping three factories operational alongside potential layoffs of 35,000 workers by 2030. We delve into NIO's introduction of the Firefly, a budget-friendly EV that incorporates unique battery swap technology and will sell exclusively through dealerships. I also address concerning allegations against VinFast regarding safety risks tied to structural flaws in their vehicles. Additionally, I analyze the current skepticism surrounding Cybertruck demand and the effects on dealership inventories. Updates on Tesla's factory construction and strategic partnerships, including a possible collaboration with Eve Energy, highlight the evolving landscape. Finally, I share my plans for CES, where I'll uncover the latest technological advancements in the sector.

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Other Podcasts:

• Beyond the Post YouTube
• Beyond the Post Podcast
• Shuffle Playlist

Links:

• Beyond the Post - What are Robb and Bodie taking to CES?
• Beyond the Post - What are Robb and Bodie taking to CES? (YouTube)

News:

• VW to cut 35,000 jobs by 2030
• Whistleblower blacklisted for pointing out issues with Vinfast EVs
• Vinfast whistleblower
• NIO unveils FireFly
• Tesla Semi Update
• Tesla Shanghai Megafactory nearly completed
• Tesla rolls out more FSD trials
• Cybercab can be driven with a video game controller
• Tesla and EVE Energy 1
• Tesla and EVE Energy 2

*Art by Dall-E

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Description:

In this episode of Kilowatt, I explore key developments in the electric vehicle sector, starting with Canoe's staff furlough amid financial challenges. I celebrate Robert Dunn's milestone with his Polestar 2, which achieved 100,000 miles with impressive battery health. 

We discuss the uncertain fate of Volkswagen's factory closures due to union negotiations and Rivian's exciting software updates. I express enthusiasm for the affordable Chevy Equinox EV and share Tesla's innovative strategies to manage supercharger congestion and address battery pack replacements in Cybertrucks. The episode wraps up with a highlight reel created by Steve Sheridan celebrating memorable moments from the show in 2024.

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Other Podcasts:

• Beyond the Post YouTube
• Beyond the Post Podcast
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Links:

• Steve Sheridan's YouTube Channel
• Aging Wheels YouTube Channel

News:

• Canoo may be in trouble
• Make the Equinox EV even cheaper
• Rivian's R1 platform get's YouTube and SiriusXM
• VW may not close German factories after all
• 100,000 mile Polestar review (YOUTUBE LINK)
• 100,000 mile Polestar review (Article)
• Cybertruck demand
• Cybertruck cell dent issues
• Tesla European sales are down
• Mobile Superchargers

*Art by Dall-E

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/kilowatt.

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Description:

In this episode of Kilowatt, I delve into the EV news. We talk about, Quebec's decision to ban gasoline vehicle sales by 2034, marking a significant shift towards sustainable transport. We spotlight Rivian’s delivery of 20,000 electric vans to Amazon, raising questions about production capabilities. The discussion shifts to Tesla’s plans to test autonomous driving in Austin and the anticipated refreshed Model Y. We also explore the potential of solid-state batteries and new semi-solid state technologies from MG and NIO. As we conclude, I express gratitude to our supporters and preview our upcoming CES coverage, aiming to equip our audience with a deeper understanding of the electric vehicle landscape.

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Other Podcasts:

• Beyond the Post YouTube
• Beyond the Post Podcast
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News:

• NIO's Onvo L60 heading to Europe
• Solid State Battery 101
• MG to bring Semi-Solid State Battery out in 2025
• Model Y refresh to hit China in early 2025
• Quebec to ban ICE vehicles on January 31st, 2034
• Tesla in talks with the City of Austin Texas for Cybercab testing
• Rivian's delivered 20,000 delivery vans to Amazon
• Tesla launches Powerwall 3 in Puerto Rico

*Art by Dall-E

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Description:

In this episode of Kilowatt, I kick off the discussion with Waymo's plans to expand its autonomous taxi service into Japan, followed by Michigan's first federally funded NEVI EV fast charger installation. I also cover Southern California Edison's addition of 280 Chevy Silverado EVs to its fleet, a recall on the Chevy Equinox EV for a pedestrian alert system issue, and Ford's $9.63 billion loan to enhance EV manufacturing. Additionally, I highlight Shaquille O'Neal's unique Lucid Air transformation, the Zeekr 7X electric SUV's upcoming European debut, and Factorial's groundbreaking solid-state battery technology. Lastly, I dive into Tesla's lithium refining operation progress and updates on its full self-driving software, alongside concerning reports about hardware 4 failures.

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News:

• Waymo Heads To Japan
• GM Recall Chevy Equinox EV
• Zeekr 7X Heads To Europe
• SoCal Edison Adds 280 Chevy Silverado EVs To The Fleet
• Shaquille O'Neil's Custom Lucid Air
• Ford Gets a $9.63 Billion Loan For Blue Oval City
• Ford's EV Winter Tips
• Factorial's Solid State Battery
• Tesla's Texas Lithium Refinery
• Tesla's AI/HW 4 Issues
• Tesla Rolls Out V.13 To All HW/AI 4 Vehicles
• Michigan's First NEVI Charger

*Art by Dall-E

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Description:

In this episode of Kilowatt, I explore the latest developments in electric vehicles and renewable energy, while addressing the challenges faced by the industry. I discuss General Motors and LG Energy Solutions' renewed partnership aimed at advancing battery technology, including prismatic cells and alternative chemistries. We also dive into Lucid Motors' ambitions for technology licensing and the implications of their recent sales performance. The dire situation at Nikola Motors is highlighted, with significant layoffs and a drastic valuation drop raising concerns about its future viability. On a positive note, I share insights on how hybrids and EVs have successfully reduced vehicle emissions in 2023. In the Tesla segment, I speculate on the Cybertruck's adaptability for Asian markets and address potential setbacks with Tesla's new API pricing for developers. This episode captures the vibrant yet unpredictable landscape of the EV market, leaving us with hopeful reflections for the future.

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• Patreon
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Other Podcasts:

• Beyond the Post YouTube
• Beyond the Post Podcast
• Shuffle Playlist

Links:

• Canadian EV Spreadsheet
• True North EVs
• Manitoba EV Association

News:

• GM and LG Energy Solution Partner
• Cybertruck at BYD in China
• Cybertruck lands in China
• Tesla Head of Autopilot Hardware Engineering leave for Zoox
• Nikola in trouble
• Lucid CEO says Lucid is talking to other automakers
• EVs help drop vehicle emissions drop

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/kilowatt.

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Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Support the Show:

• Patreon
• Acast+

Other Podcasts:

• Beyond the Post YouTube
• Beyond the Post Podcast
• Shuffle Playlist

Links:

• Canadian EV Spreadsheet
• True North EVs
• Manitoba EV Association

News:

• GM Cruise is dead
• EV battery prices are plummeting
• EV battery prices are down
• You can buy a Hyundai on Amazon
• SAE working on Universal Plug and Charge
• Costco and Electrify America rolling of DC Fast Chargers
• Over 90% of EV drivers would buy another EV
• BYD next-gen blade battery
• Stellantis and Zeta working on Lithium-Sulfur Batteries
• Sub $30k Tesla
• Model Q rumors
• Cybercab details
• Reduced costs at the Supercharger
• California excludes Tesla
• Elon fires back on California

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Description:

Blah Blah Blah!

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News:

• Telo Trucks Interview
• Nosillacast w/ Pat Dengler

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Description:

In this episode, we analyze Rivian's third quarter 2024 earnings call, featuring insights from CEO RJ Scaringe, CFO Claire McDonough, and COO Javier Varela. I discuss RJ's remarks on the Gen 2 vehicle ramp-up and the new tri-motor variant, which improves performance and reduces costs. Despite temporary supply chain issues, RJ provides an optimistic view of Rivian's material costs and efficiency gains. Claire summarizes key financial metrics, including vehicle production and losses, while we explore the upcoming R2 program and its market positioning. I critique Rivian’s technology integration and customer strategies in the competitive EV landscape. The conversation highlights evolving consumer expectations and RJ’s hopeful outlook as Rivian navigates present challenges and plans for future growth.

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Other Podcasts:

• Beyond the Post YouTube
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News:

• Rivian's Q3 2024 Earnings Call

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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

Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/kilowatt.

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