What Drives Us

* General Motors and LG Chem have formed a joint venture to create batteries for EVs. They are calling it Ultium. The factory will be in Lordstown, OH. It’s expected to employ more than 1,000 people. This could be a really big thing. Here’s hoping.* Toyota introduced two new hybrids to their fleet: Venza and Sienna.* Russell just finished spending a week with the 2020 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. There are things he really liked. And then there are other things.* In case you didn’t know, Dyson (yes, the vacuum company) announced a while ago that they were developing an electric vehicle. After actually creating a very nice looking prototype, they have announced that they are abandoning the effort. Reportedly, Dyson realized there was no way to manufacture and price the car such that it would be even remotely profitable. Let’s hope they continue the idea and work on a lower-priced car they can bring to market.* GM had created an e-Bike called the Ariv (pronounced ‘arrive’). They had a standard version and a folding version. Sure it looks a little quirky, but in a time when e-bikes are seeing a huge uptick in sales, GM kills theirs.* We’re about more than just vehicles. We like the whole circular lifestyle of generating your own electricity, storing it in your own batteries, and using that electricity to power your house and/or charge your car. However, far too many utility companies few residents with solar panels as competition. They work very hard to make going solar difficult and fins ways to punish the homeowner after the panels are installed. We decided to take a little time and talk about how utilities companies can be real jerks.

You know him from Wait, Wait, Don’t Tell Me or maybe “We’ll leave the light on for you.” but we know Mr. Tom Bodett as a green energy advocate who walks the walk. His self-installed 37kW solar array, advanced heating pump system and his new Tesla Model Y all speak of someone who cares. Spend some time getting to know Tom better.

* Paul talks about the ground-level pollution created by gasoline powered lawn equipment. It’s better for you and the environment if you swapped them out for something with a plug or battery.* Tony discusses that Lincoln has cancelled their anticipated partnership with Rivian to produce a luxury SUV EV. We would like to think that this is just a temporary thing.* Kacey tells us about Tesla’s latest software update and how it improves stoplight recognition and smart summon mode.* Georgia talks about a JD Power survey indicating people’s heads are still stuck in the sand when it comes to alt fuel vehicles.* Mark talks about Rivian declining to accept a $1 million grant that was guaranteed to them from Normal, IL where they have their factory. Normal promised that if Rivian invests $22 million the town would kick in $1 million. Since then, Rivian has secured Billions in funding and decided the town could put the money to better use.

A fantastic special show. We spend ninety minutes dissecting the Tesla earnings call with Kacey Green, Patrick Connor, Matthew Klippenstein and special guest Montana Skeptic. Details and arguments abound. It’s a contentious but very fascinating look at the most talked about car company on the planet.

* Mark celebrates his 3rd Voltiversary and tells us how reliable and amazingly efficient his 2017 Chevy Volt has been.* Chicago recently voted to implement more stringent regulations requiring new construction to be ready for EV charging.* With ridership down and reduced routes, how will the US mass transit system rebound once/if the pandemic is over?* Kia has surprised a lot of people with the unveiling of the HabaNiro, which they say will be due out by the end of 2021. This will be their first dedicated EV model.

No, it is not safe to drink gasoline.

This week we discuss the Rawlinson-Motor Trend interview, gas prices and futures and Patrick explains what a future is, the upcoming Evoltis and much more.

On this week’s the panel discuss, electric RVs, what does it mean when you own something but the company that made the product controls it, Ford PHEV truck rumors and more.

This week the group discuss how a distributed power grid in South Australia could be leading the way of the future, electric Jeeps, the place for public transit in the of a pandemic and Munro’s Model Y teardown, not in that order.