Welcome to another episode of, “The Drive”, with Alan Taylor. Today, he starts with BJ Killeen, an experienced automotive journalist and Voice of Reason, who recently discussed the industry’s evolving dynamics with Alan. He expressed sadness over the loss of influential figures from the 1950s but noted the rise of new talent, like John Force and his daughters in racing. In a significant update, California’s high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes will soon restrict around half a million electric vehicles (EVs) from single-occupancy access due to the expiration of a federal law, potentially increasing traffic congestion. Additionally, an online dealership settled a lawsuit for $1 million over issues such as bald tires and faulty brakes, affecting more than 170,000 customers. They may seek compensation through the Federal Trade Commission. Killeen also addressed challenges faced by companies like Fisker, which has struggled with the production of the Fisker Ocean. In response, Rivian has partnered with Chase Bank for a buyback program for Fisker owners, allowing them to sell their cars or receive incentives for new Rivian vehicles. While this is seen as a strategic move, lingering questions about its sustainability remain.

Joining Alan next is Karl Brauer, an automotive industry analyst for Forbes Autos and a juror for the North American Car and Truck of the Year, emphasizes the significance of reliability when purchasing used cars, especially in light of rising prices since the COVID-19 pandemic. His research focuses on used cars aged 1 to 5 years, assessing their potential longevity based on mileage and helping buyers identify economical choices with the longest lifespan. For instance, the Honda Fit stands out with an average list price of $18,336 and an expected remaining lifespan of 11.6 years, leading to an annual cost of around $15183. This information is crucial for understanding the long-term financial commitment associated with owning a vehicle. Other notable mentions in the study include the Volkswagen Passat, Kia Rio 5-door, and Honda Civic, with their respective costs and remaining lifespans indicating varying degrees of value and longevity for buyers. Furthermore, Brauer introduces a discussion on vehicles that have depreciated the most in resale value. Electric cars have notably experienced steep declines, with the Porsche Taycan topping the list after losing $26,000, approximately 26% of its value, within a year. Other significant drops include the BMW 5 Series hybrid and several Tesla models. Overall, the study highlights the importance of considering both price and expected lifespan when evaluating 5-year-old used cars, while also revealing the severe depreciation trends affecting many electric vehicles.

Up next is Brian Moody, Executive Editor of AutoTrader.com and Kelley Blue Book, recently discussed trends in truck leasing and Tesla sales. While the value of Tesla vehicles remains stable, sales are declining, indicating a potential decrease in consumer demand that could affect pricing strategies. In February 2023, Tesla sold 60,325 vehicles, capturing 4.3% of the U.S. market. However, projections for 2024 show sales dropping to 590,000 units and market share decreasing to 3.9%, reflecting shifts in consumer preference. In the realm of green technologies, Porsche’s advancements in E-fuels—synthetic fuels made from renewable hydrogen and atmospheric CO2—were highlighted. These E-fuels enable combustion engines to operate more cleanly and are part of Porsche’s strategy, which aims for over 80% of its global deliveries to be all-electric by 2030, maintaining about 20% with combustion engines. Regarding truck leasing for March, notable options include the 2024 Chevy Colorado at $369 per month with a $3,500 upfront payment, the Silverado 1500 at $439 per month and $4,000 upfront, and the Ford F-150 at $389 per month with a $5,100 initial cost. The F-150 Lightning is available for $319 per month with a $6,900 upfront fee. Midsize trucks like the 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz lease for $279 per month, and the Jeep Gladiator for $489 per month. Overall, these leases offer competitive monthly rates, despite varying initial payments.

Closing this episode, Alan talks with Lauren Fix, the Editor-in-Chief of Car Coach Reports, about President Trump’s decision to shut down 8,000 electric vehicle (EV) chargers at federal buildings. While this news may concern EV owners, Lauren reassures them that there is no need to panic for those who already have chargers. They discuss the government’s goal to transition to 100% electric vehicles by 2035, but highlight audits that revealed unauthorized charging at these sites, which led the General Services Administration (GSA) to remove 2,003 chargers. Lauren suggests that charging users for electricity at these stations could help generate revenue. The discussion then shifts to Stellantis, which is facing recent challenges and considering future plans. Despite issues like the CEO’s departure and struggles in EV sales, there is optimism about refocusing on V8 engines for performance trucks and creating jobs in Belvidere, Illinois. The disconnect between the previous leadership’s focus on European markets and the American demand for trucks and SUVs becomes evident, and there is anticipation for new performance vehicles, such as a Challenger. Concerns about the viability of Fiat and Maserati in the U.S. market are also raised, but overall, there is eagerness for change and new offerings from Stellantis. Lauren Fix also provides significant updates regarding the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), particularly concerning the recent rollback of 31 regulations mandating electric vehicles. The new EPA leadership aims to lower living costs, boost the domestic auto industry, and give consumers more freedom in their vehicle choices. Additionally, Nissan is set to appoint a new CEO from Mexico as they seek a turnaround. There are concerns about this transition due to past experiences, such as those involving Carlos Ghosn, who faced significant issues while leading the company. Nissan’s continuously criticized CVT systems are another point of contention, as many consumers find them unappealing. We appreciate everyone tuning in to this episode of “The Drive”!

[00:00:00] – Contributor BJ Killeen
[00:06:03] – California’s HOV
[00:12:31] – Fisker Owners
[00:19:21] – Contributor Karl Brauer
[00:29:09] – Salvaged
[00:35:21] – Value vs Lifespan
[00:41:10] – Contributor Brian Moody
[00:48:03] – Porsche E Fuel
[00:53:41] – Best March Truck Leases
[01:00:30] – Contributor Lauren Fix
[01:08:04] – Bring It On Home
[01:15:30] – Not So New for Nissan

Host: Alan Taylor
Producer: Dave Milligan
Copy Editor: Colleen Mahi

Contributor: BJ Killeen

Contributor: Karl Brauer

Contributor: Brian Moody

Contributor: Lauren Fix

Vehicles Discussed:

2025 Lexus LX 700H,Volkswagen Passat, Kia Rio 5, Honda Civic, Infinity 250, Porsche, BMW 5, Tesla Model S, Maserati Levante, Tesla Model 3, Kia Niro EV, Ford Explorer, Mercedes-Benz AMG, Hyundai SUV, Hyundai Santa Cruz, El Camino, Jeep Gladiator, Nissan Frontier, Ram 1500, Silverado 1500, 2024 Chevy Colorado

• Austin Hatcher Foundation
• AutoTempest.com
• Brembo
• Dodge
• Foundation of Human Understanding
• Shell
• Subaru

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