Overdrive

• Hyundai IONIQ 9 Launch: Hyundai debuts its new IONIQ 9 electric SUV, positioning it as a premium, spacious, tech-rich executive vehicle.

• Alfa Romeo Junior: Alfa Romeo’s new compact SUV, the Junior, brings hybrid and electric options to Australia

• HERE-SBD EV Infrastructure Report: A report shows uneven progress in EV charging across global regions

• EV Market Trends in Australia: EV sales in Australia are growing,

• Škoda EV Ad Campaign: Škoda UK’s campaign tackles EV stereotypes.

• Driver Assistance and Distraction:

• AI Monitoring in Fleets: AI-based in-vehicle monitoring aims to coach drivers

• Transport Modelling & AI Transparency: Avoiding “black box” decision-making.

• Mobility Scooter Accessibility: Listeners share real-world challenges with scooter portability

• Hyundai Santa Fe Petrol Road Test: The petrol-only Santa Fe offers solid performance and practicality.

• Australian auto sales rose in June, but year-to-date totals remain down, with plug-in and hybrid growth outpacing traditional segments.

• Chinese carmakers surge in the UK, disrupting the market with value-packed electric offerings as legacy brands falter.

• China’s EV sector faces major consolidation, with only 15 brands expected to survive intense competition by 2030.

• Oxford RF’s radar tech may reduce AV blind spots and hardware needs while enhancing pedestrian safety and public trust.

• Mitsubishi’s 3D Triton configurator lets buyers visualise and price their dream ute online and in augmented reality.

• Salford e-mobility trial aims to improve disabled access to e-scooters and e-bikes through training and tech support.

• “Apology” to Elon Musk delivers a wry cultural take on influence and innovation.

• Big car, bigger memories segment reflects on a Dodge from childhood and contrasts with more modest family cars.

• Road test: Haval H6 GT PHEV delivers thoughts on performance, presence, and its place in the evolving SUV market.

1. NVES Launch: Australia’s New Vehicle Efficiency Standard begins

2. FCAI Response: The FCAI focuses too narrowly on EVs, ignoring affordable, efficient petrol and hybrid options.

3. Tyre Recycling Report: highlighting a gap between recovery and sustainability.

4. European SDV Initiative: Eleven major EU companies form an open-source alliance to speed up software-defined vehicle development.

5. AM Radio Legislation: A U.S. bill to mandate AM radio in all new vehicles

6. Ferrari Amalfi Launch: Ferrari unveils the Amalfi, coupe styled with “poetic precision and carbon-fibre flair”.

7. Hispano Suiza Experience: Hispano Suiza redefines ultra-luxury with a personalised hyper car journey.

8. Mahindra XUV 3XO Review: Mahindra enters the small SUV market with a well-equipped and sharply priced model.

China’s Sodium-Ion Scooter Revolution

Summary:

China is rapidly adopting sodium-ion batteries in its electric scooter market, led by companies like Yadea. These cheaper and safer alternatives to lithium are ideal for short-range urban transport and could eventually disrupt global battery supply chains.

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Toyota Bets Big on Logistics Tech

Summary:

Toyota is privatising Toyota Industries Corporation to focus on autonomous forklifts, logistics software, and low-emission powertrains. The move reflects a broader trend: rebranding transport as "mobility" and modernising freight handling from the warehouse floor up.

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Can Telematics Tame Young Drivers?

Summary:

A small-scale Aussie study shows real-time driver feedback via telematics might help young drivers—but only briefly. Long-term behavioural change remains elusive, and the research highlights the need for better message delivery methods behind the wheel.

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Great Wall Climbs 'Beer O'Clock Hill'

Summary:

Great Wall Motors proved its off-road mettle by conquering one of Australia’s toughest 4WD tracks. Notably, a plug-in hybrid Ute made the climb—demonstrating how EVs and hybrid tech are redefining off-road performance expectations.

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Dodge’s Electric Muscle Car Stalls

Summary:

Dodge has paused production of its EV muscle car after poor U.S. sales. Traditional petrolhead buyers weren’t sold on battery-powered bravado, highlighting the emotional and cultural resistance still facing EVs—especially in the performance segment.

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Driving While Female: Beyond Tokenism

Summary:

An international survey aims to understand women’s experience behind the wheel. While the intent is strong, David and Paul warn against shallow analysis. Real progress requires data that captures access issues, social pressures, and behavioural patterns—not just averages.

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Road Toll Stats: Misused, Misunderstood, and Misleading

Summary:

David unpacks Australia’s latest road fatality stats, urging caution when interpreting small sample sizes or percentage shifts. A major jump in remote area deaths is likely due to improved reporting or infrastructure gaps, rather than sudden behavioural changes.

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Northern Territory Tops Road Risk Charts

Summary:

The NT continues to record Australia’s highest road fatality rate per capita—over four times higher than most other states. Long distances, rough roads, and speed are likely factors. The data underscores the life-saving power of infrastructure investment.

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Respecting the Lane: Lessons from the Autobahn

Summary:

Paul reflects on how German road courtesy—like letting buses overtake trucks—contrasts with Australia’s often combative driving culture. It’s a reminder that education, not just engineering, plays a key role in safer roads.

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Review: Jaecoo J7 SUV – Chinese Sophistication on a Budget

Summary:

The Jaecoo J7, a more refined cousin of the Chery Tiggo 7 Pro, offers great value with a premium feel. It’s better built, offers AWD, and comes with a future buyback guarantee—appealing features in a rapidly evolving Chinese car landscape.

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Program Links and Credits

This Overdrive program originally aired on the 7th of June 2025. For extended interviews, video content, and podcasts, visit our website, or search “Cars Transport Culture” on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.

Credits: Hosted by David Brown. Contributor: Paul Murrell from seniordriveroz.com. Production: Bruce Potter. Technical support: Mark Wesley.

Syndicated nationally via the Community Radio Network.

Overdrive: Tesla Backlash, Smarter Road Safety, and a Fresh Crop of SUVs

This week on Overdrive, the show where cars and transport meet culture, David Brown and Paul Murrell cover a wide sweep of industry news, innovation, and history.

Real-Time Safety Data

A new agreement between Euro NCAP and the Data for Road Safety (DFRS) platform aims to improve road safety by encouraging carmakers to share real-time hazard data. The system will help vehicles warn each other of dangers like crashes or icy roads. It’s a big step for Euro NCAP’s 2026 safety protocols and a glimpse into how connected tech is reshaping driving.

Tesla's Adelaide Trouble

Tesla’s plan to build a battery facility in Adelaide’s south has met heavy resistance. Locals and online respondents raised concerns about environmental damage, Elon Musk’s controversial image, and the loss of community land. Though battery tech is booming, this project shows how public trust matters more than just clean energy slogans.

Insurance Deal Divides

The ACCC has approved Insurance Australia Group’s takeover of RACQ’s insurance arm. RACQ sees it as a growth move, but the Motor Trades Association of Australia says it reduces competition and risks higher premiums. There’s also concern over whether profits will still support traditional motor club activities like road safety advocacy.

SUV Refresh: RAV4 and Forester

Toyota has launched its sixth-generation RAV4 globally. It’s a tech-heavy update with a new hybrid system offering up to 150km electric-only range, plus AI voice control and a rugged GR SPORT option.

Subaru’s next-gen Forester brings a stronger hybrid system and better handling thanks to WRX-derived steering. It retains Subaru’s full-time AWD, though only petrol models include a full-size spare tyre. The SUV market is crowded, so these upgrades are key.

Electric MICRA Reboots the Small Car

The quirky Nissan MICRA is back, this time as a fully electric car. Built for city driving, it offers up to 408km range and a sharp new design. With other compact EVs like the Hyundai Inster on the rise, it’s clear the small car is making a comeback—just with zero emissions.

Land Speed Legends

Paul Murrell reflects on land speed history—from Sir Malcolm Campbell’s 1920s records to how ordinary cars today outperform them. Campbell’s “Blue Bird” once hit 301mph and is now on display in Daytona, USA. It’s a reminder of just how far—and fast—automotive progress can go.

Road Test: Chery Tiggo 7 Pro

We test the Chery Tiggo 7 Pro, a mid-size SUV priced under $40K. It impresses with dual 12.3” screens, a full-size spare, and a solid 7-year warranty. However, its real-world fuel economy lags, the steering feels vague, and its infotainment can be tricky to use. Strong on value, but not flawless.

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Program Links and Credits

Program Date: 31 May 2025

Contributors: David Brown, Paul Murrell, Bruce Potter, Mark Wesley, Chery Australia

More Info: Search Cars Transport Culture or visit carstransportculture.com

Overdrive is syndicated across Australia on the Community Radio Network.

Overdrive: From Kwik Fit to Cybertruck Fix – The Shifting World of Cars and Transport

In this episode of Overdrive, we dive into the evolving world of vehicles, transport systems, and the culture that surrounds them. From industry pioneers to futuristic machines, David Brown and Paul Morrell cover it all with insight and wit.

🎧 Full Episode Includes:

🔧 Farewell to Tom Farmer

We remember Sir Tom Farmer, founder of Kwik Fit, who revolutionised car servicing in the UK. His commitment to customer service and clean, efficient operations helped transform the motor repair industry.

🚛 Hydrogen Trucks Make a Comeback

Hyundai’s XCIENT hydrogen truck features at the Brisbane Truck Show. We explore hydrogen's ongoing role in freight transport, its infrastructure challenges, and targeted adoption strategies like those seen in Tasmania.

🔌 EV Sales Rise, But Not Everywhere

EV sales are booming globally—but Japan and parts of Europe are slowing down. We examine regional trends, affordability, and how some manufacturers like Honda are shifting back to hybrids.

🛠️ Tesla Cybertruck Repair Woes

A Tesla Cybertruck is written off after $58,000 in damages. We talk repair costs, impractical design quirks, and why the Cybertruck may be more statement than substance.

🚘 Hands-On with the Tesla Model Y

David test drives the updated Model Y. With a more mature design, better sound insulation, and improved comfort, this SUV moves closer to mainstream appeal—minus the novelty gimmicks.

🎨 Jaguar’s Neon Light Show in Tokyo

Jaguar teams up with artist Yoshi Rotten to display their T-Type 00 in an immersive art installation. Bold branding or confusing concept? You decide.

🐉 Lotus Eletre: Rare as Unicorn Droppings

We spot one of the only two Lotus Eletre EVs sold in Australia so far. High price, bold looks, and low visibility—does it stand out enough in today’s market?

📲 Responding to Social Media Feedback

David reflects on MG hybrid reviews and a calm, reasoned reply to an aggressive commenter. A reminder that honest motoring journalism matters, especially when it highlights real-world quirks.

🧠 Behaviour Change in Transport

We revisit an interview with Liz Ampt on voluntary behaviour change and practical approaches to getting people to shift their habits—without manipulation.

🚗 Final Thoughts on Car Culture

From the evolution of car design to the emotional and practical reasons people choose vehicles, we touch on what really drives buyer decisions—and how that's changing with age, technology, and urban life.

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🔗 For more episodes, videos, and content, search Cars Transport Culture or visit www.drivenmedia.com.au

🎙️ Overdrive airs nationally via the Community Radio Network

📅 First broadcast: 24 May 2025

🎤 Host: David Brown | Guest: Paul Morrell (seniordriveraus.com)

Podcast: Behaviour Change in Transport – Conversations with Liz Ampt and Professor David Hensher

Hosted by David Brown

In this two-part episode, we explore the critical but often overlooked question in transport planning: not just what people do, but why they do it. Our guests, Dr Liz Ampt and Professor David Hensher, have each made major contributions to understanding behaviour change and its role in shaping more effective, sustainable, and humane transport systems.

Part 1 – Liz Ampt: Voluntary Behaviour Change

Liz Ampt challenges the top-down nature of many transport programs—like road safety and active travel—that assume experts know best. Instead, she promotes voluntary behaviour change through conversation, empathy, and individual empowerment. Her work shows that real and lasting change comes when people are invited to reflect on their routines, frustrations, and aspirations—and then supported to discover their own practical solutions.

Rather than leading with guilt or grand messaging, Ampt’s team asks deceptively simple but revealing questions like: “When was the last time you were in a car and wished you weren’t?” These moments open up powerful insights—from a mother missing her morning newspaper to a designer tired of finding parking—that lead to small, personal shifts like carpooling, walking, or rethinking routines. The approach, while labour-intensive, is often more effective than traditional marketing.

Ampt’s work began with transport surveys that moved beyond trip data to motivations and emotions. This foundation has guided successful behaviour-change initiatives in other areas too—like reducing water use and phosphorus pollution—using the same core method: respectful, open conversation.

Part 2 – David Hensher: Behavioural Insight and the Future of Mobility

Professor David Hensher, Director of the Institute of Transport and Logistics Studies at the University of Sydney, reflects on the foundational role Liz Ampt played in shaping Australian transport research—especially through the landmark 1981 Sydney Household Travel Survey. Her emphasis on understanding why people travel remains vital today, especially as planners navigate new technologies and uncertain futures.

Hensher warns that while AI and big data have value, they often lack the depth and context found in unit record data—detailed, confidential insights collected directly from individuals and households over time. These offer a richer understanding of behaviour and its triggers, especially when tracked longitudinally.

In his current work with ITS Australia, TMR Queensland, and the federal government, Hensher is developing a new survey that explores behavioural change through life events—like health issues, job changes, or family needs—rather than just distance or cost. He stresses that understanding motivations outside the transport silo (e.g. health, well-being, or working from home) is essential for planning meaningful, responsive mobility systems.

Hensher also argues for a shift from static annual surveys to frameworks that embrace uncertainty, test future scenarios, and capture perceptions. He calls for Australia to invest in long-term panel data (like the US labour force survey) to help track how attitudes and behaviours evolve—not just for comparison, but to inform bold, adaptable decisions.

Key Message:

True behavioural insight requires more than counting trips or adjusting fares. It means listening, asking better questions, and helping people arrive at their own solutions—whether in transport, health, or broader community life.

In this episode of Overdrive – Cars, Transport, Culture, David Brown is joined once again by motoring expert Paul Murrell from SeniorDriverAus.com to unpack the latest developments from the world of transport and automotive innovation.

News Highlights:

Autonomous Vehicle Emissions – An MIT study warns that the computing power required for self-driving cars could one day rival the energy consumption of today’s global data centres, unless hardware efficiency dramatically improves.

Light Truck Safety – ANCAP’s first-ever safety assessment of popular light trucks such as the Isuzu N-Series and Hino 300 Series reveals shortcomings in occupant protection and advanced safety features, despite their increasing road presence.

Cupra Tavascan – The Spanish-branded but Chinese-built EV earns four ANCAP stars, falling short in Safety Assist due to the absence of certain European-standard features in the Australian version.

UK Tariff Relief – A new Trump-led tariff cut could revitalise UK car exports, especially for Jaguar Land Rover, just as it prepares for its EV relaunch.

GM Celestiq – A bold move into the Rolls-Royce segment, GM reveals the Celestiq: an ultra-luxury, hand-built electric sedan with 42 speakers, adaptive glass roof, and virtual development tech.

Ferrari’s Electric Future – The iconic Italian marque sets a date for its first EV (October 2026) and patents technology to simulate the sound and feel of petrol-powered cars, aiming to preserve its legacy in a new electric era.

Toyota Tundra Platinum – Toyota adds a luxury twist to its full-size pickup lineup, combining rugged capability with premium features like massaging seats and a JBL sound system.

Discussion Point:

David explores the “Expertise Deficit” in public sector transport planning, highlighting a shift toward generalist management that undervalues deep, domain-specific knowledge—posing risks to effective infrastructure policy and procurement.

Road Test:

We get behind the wheel of the Mazda BT-50, examining its performance, features, and suitability for Australian conditions.

As always, you can find extended versions of our program, visuals, and more content across our platforms—just search for Cars Transport Culture on your favourite podcast app or social media.

First broadcast on 17 May 2025 on 99.3FM and syndicated nationally via the Community Radio Network.

Overdrive: Tesla’s Troubles, Touchscreen Backlash & Royal Recognition

In this episode of Overdrive, David Brown and Paul Murrell unpack a mix of major shifts and motoring curiosities. From plummeting Tesla sales and BYD’s meteoric rise, to Australia's evolving road rules and the debate over touchscreens in modern vehicles—this week covers the latest in transport, design, planning, and culture.

⚡ Tesla’s Decline & BYD’s Boom

Tesla has taken a major hit in Australia with a 75% drop in April sales, influenced by expiring tax perks and consumer uncertainty. Plug-in hybrid sales also dipped to 2.9%. Meanwhile, Chinese EV giant BYD has overtaken Tesla globally. In the US, Tesla is sitting on 10,000 unsold Cybertrucks, raising concerns about demand for the futuristic model before its Australian debut.

📉 The Touchscreen Controversy

Euro NCAP will soon penalise cars that hide basic functions like headlights or air-conditioning behind complex touchscreen menus. From 2026, anything requiring more than two taps will impact safety ratings. Brown and Murrell welcomed the change, arguing that physical dials are more intuitive and safer—citing examples from the Genesis G80 and Lexus models. Australian standards often follow Europe’s lead, so local updates are likely.

🛑 New Road Rules Stir Debate

Recent changes to road laws are drawing mixed responses:

In South Australia, speed limits when passing roadside assistance vehicles have dropped to 25 km/h, compared to 40 km/h in other states.

P1 drivers now face a national curfew from 11 PM to 5 AM and a one-passenger limit unless supervised.

Zero phone tolerance—including hands-free use—can result in $750 fines and 4 demerit points.

Murrell noted the lack of clarity in the 25 km/h rule, particularly on high-speed roads where abrupt slowdowns could be dangerous.

👑 Jaguar Land Rover’s Royal Warrant

JLR has retained Royal Warrants from King Charles III and Queen Camilla, continuing a tradition dating back to 1951. Though now owned by India’s Tata Motors, the brand’s British heritage still holds marketing weight. Murrell highlighted how such endorsements, while largely symbolic, remain powerful branding tools—comparable to historic racing sponsorships.

🏁 Fun with Lego and ‘Unexceptional’ Cars

Lego showcased life-size, drivable Formula 1 cars at the Miami GP, made from over 1.3 tonnes of bricks and 22,000 hours of labour. In the UK, the Festival of the Unexceptional celebrates everyday classics like the Vauxhall Chevette—vehicles remembered not for their glamour but for their place in everyday motoring life. Both stories underline the emotional and cultural connection we have with cars.

🚙 Genesis G80 3.5T Sport Review

David Brown tested the Genesis G80 3.5T Sport—an impressive luxury sedan priced at $142,000 driveaway. Featuring a twin-turbo V6, noise-cancelling tech, and thoughtful design, it competes well with European rivals. Genesis stands out for offering premium features without the inflated options list. Murrell pointed out that Australians are growing accustomed to six-figure car prices, and Genesis is positioning itself as a smart alternative.

🛠️ Classic Cars: Restore or Reimagine?

At the St Ives Motor Show, a classic Land Rover fitted with LED lights sparked debate: does modernising classics improve safety or compromise authenticity? Murrell leaned toward safety, especially with today’s traffic conditions, though both agree there’s a balance between preserving history and embracing progress. From LEDs to EV conversions, the fate of vintage vehicles remains a hot topic.

🎧 Listen & Explore More

Overdrive is broadcast nationally via the Community Radio Network. Catch the full episode, road test videos, and extra stories at our website or search "cars transport culture" on your favourite platform.

Host: David Brown

Guest: Paul Murrell (SeniorDriverAus.com)

First Aired: 10 May 2025

Production Support: Genesis Australia, Bruce Potter, Mark Wesley

Is the recent strident opposition to working from home driven by real performance data — or by outdated management egos?

As some organisations begin to reverse their confrontational stance on remote work, the question remains: should we sit back and see what happens, or step up and lead by prioritising staff well-being and evidence-based policy?

In this second interview, Professor David Hensher calls for a broader, more balanced approach to evaluating staff performance — one that focuses on outcomes, not just outputs.

📽️ Catch up on the first interview, recorded a few months ago, which explores the foundational research behind work-from-home strategies:

https://soundcloud.com/drivenmedia/the-impact-of-hybrid-work-on-transport-and-urban-planning-insights-from-professor-david-hensher