In this episode of Kilowatt, host Bodie clears out a massive news queue before heading into a well-deserved family break. We dive deep into Tesla’s self-certification of Level 4 autonomous vehicles in Texas, its dedicated new Robotaxi hub, and the real data behind its actual fleet size. Meanwhile, BYD announces a groundbreaking policy to accept full crash liability when its "God's Eye" driver-assist system is active, and Waymo officially begins testing its next-gen, purpose-built Ojai robotaxis in the US. 

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In this episode, I sit down with Steve Sheridan to talk about his upgrade from a 2020 Tesla Model Y Performance to the new 2026 Model Y Performance. Steve shares what motivated the change, including the significantly improved ride quality, quieter cabin, and refinements Tesla has made to the vehicle over the last several years. We discuss why the Model Y continues to be the right fit for his needs, from garage constraints to the features he values most, such as one-pedal driving, visibility, and Tesla's user interface.

Steve also walks us through the ordering and delivery process, including a few issues that popped up at delivery and how Tesla addressed them. We chat about his decision to go with the Quicksilver paint option, paint protection film, ceramic coating, and some of the cosmetic changes he made after taking delivery. Finally, Steve shares his thoughts on the latest version of Full Self-Driving, where it's improved, where it still falls short, and why he remains attentive behind the wheel. It's a fun conversation packed with real-world ownership insights for anyone considering the updated Model Y.

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In this episode, we sit down with Allison Sheridan from PodFeet.com to discuss the GM EV1 and the SPRUCE GOOSE!

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This week, we dive into the news as Tesla's Full Self-Driving (Supervised) platform expands its European footprint into a second country, moving closer to widespread adoption while transitioning away from one-time purchase options in the region. On the hardware front, we look at Tesla’s ambitious efficiency assertions regarding the futuristic CyberCab, alongside a new monitoring program addressing charging failures to support early Cybertruck buyers with free Supercharging. Looking at legacy automakers, Chevrolet is stepping up its game for 2027 by introducing key updates for the Equinox EV and Blazer EV lineups. Meanwhile, safety concerns have prompted Waymo to temporarily suspend its freeway driving operations in certain conditions. Stellantis is also charting a massive $70 billion comeback strategy heavily featuring affordable LFP batteries, a dedicated Tesla FSD challenger, and production partnerships to manufacture EVs for Dongfeng in France. Finally, we break down the high-stakes debate surrounding a newly proposed annual $130 federal EV registration road tax fee in the United States and weigh its implications for modern clean vehicle owners.

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In this episode of Kilowatt, host Bodie breaks down Rivian’s highly anticipated Q1 2026 earnings call, shifting the spotlight from raw financial data to the groundbreaking vehicle technology driving the brand forward. The headline milestone is the official start of saleable R2 production in Normal, Illinois, with early midsize SUVs already hitting the road as employee daily drivers. Listeners will discover how Rivian managed to cut the R2's bill of materials in half through massive structural die castings, an integrated high-voltage electronics enclosure, and a streamlined electrical architecture that strips out miles of heavy copper wiring. The episode also dives into Rivian's massive multi-billion dollar liquidity pipeline from the Department of Energy, Volkswagen, and Uber, which is funding a 50% capacity boost at its upcoming greenfield plant in Georgia. Finally, Bodie details CEO RJ Scaringe’s progressive autonomy roadmap, charting the course from Autonomy Plus subscriptions to Level 4 "eyes-off" consumer vehicles and robotaxis hitting complex urban domains by 2028.

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Rivian Q1 2026 Earnings Webcast Registration

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In this episode of Kilowatt, we dive into the EV news, starting with Aptera’s massive milestone of assembling its first five production-intent validation models to prove the solar EV movement is very real. We also explore the newly live Rivian R2 configurator, breaking down the diverse trim options, initial pricing structures, and the agonizing wait for the brand's best colors. Tesla dominates much of our discussion as we dissect the unredacted NHTSA logs detailing 17 "Robotaxi" crashes, exposing what really happens behind the scenes with teleoperator interventions and minor collision data. Additionally, we analyze driver feedback on the controversial Tesla FSD 14.3.2 update to see if the system's performance is truly taking a step backward. Finally, we take a look at a massive Cybercab car wash being erected under the lights of Las Vegas, and share an inspiring story from an electric school bus driver who vows never to return to diesel.

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This episode dives into the details of Lucid Group’s first quarter 2026 earnings call, featuring the debut of incoming CEO Silvio Napoli. Napoli outlines his core priorities for the company: a relentless focus on the customer, enhanced accountability, and strict cost and capital discipline. A major highlight of the call is the expansion of Lucid’s partnership with Uber, alongside a review of the company's strengthened liquidity position following new capital raises. Listeners will also get the latest updates on the mid-size platform, which remains on track for a 2027 production ramp with a target price point below $50,000. Additionally, the company provides progress reports on its autonomy program with Uber and Nuro, aiming for a commercial launch by the end of the year. Despite acknowledging execution risks, Lucid maintains that its primary growth targets and international expansions remain on schedule.

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Lucid Group First Quarter 2026 Financial Results

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In this episode of Kilowatt, we chat about Volkswagen significantly increasing its stake in Rivian. We also take a global look at adoption, from the historic rise of electric vehicles in Australia to the growing demand for used EVs in the UK. The discussion highlights innovation and market strategy, covering Slate Auto’s vision for a $20,000 electric pickup and the Chevy Bolt EUV’s surprising performance in Brazil. Additionally, we break down critical tech updates, including leaks regarding the Tesla Semi’s battery capacity and the safety milestones achieved by the Tesla Model Y. Join us for an in-depth analysis of the trends and technology driving the future of transportation.

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In this episode of Kilowatt, automotive journalist Jill Ciminillo joins the show to share her extensive expertise on the rapidly changing vehicle market. Jill provides an insider's look at the New York Auto Show, highlighting the impressive Kia EV3 and its potential to make electric vehicles truly affordable for more families. The conversation dives deep into the strategic challenges Western automakers face from Chinese competitors and how legacy brands are adapting through platform-sharing. Jill also recounts her experiences in the Rebelle Rally and previews her upcoming journey in the Trinity Road Rally behind the wheel of a high-performance Lucid Air Sapphire.

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In this episode of Kilowatt, we sit down with Max Patten from EVs for All America to chat about the political dynamics surrounding electric vehicle adoption in the United States. Max tells us the history of this politicization, examining how early marketing strategies inadvertently created consumer divides that persist today. Max provides unique insights into the shifting perceptions among Republican politicians, particularly as the economic benefits of local EV manufacturing plants begin to hit home. We also discuss recent polling data that suggests growing acceptance across political lines, even as infrastructure challenges remain a key hurdle. Finally, Max emphasizes the critical role of consumer education and facilitated dialogue in driving broader EV ownership and national progress.

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