Episodes

  • Nikola’s Struggles

    Nikola’s Struggles
    Dec 14 2024
    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.Support the Show:PatreonAcast+Other Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle PlaylistLinks:Canadian EV SpreadsheetTrue North EVsManitoba EV AssociationNews:GM and LG Energy Solution PartnerCybertruck at BYD in ChinaCybertruck lands in ChinaTesla Head of Autopilot Hardware Engineering leave for ZooxNikola in troubleLucid CEO says Lucid is talking to other automakers EVs help drop vehicle emissions dropSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/kilowatt. Support the show at https://plus.acast.com/s/kilowatt. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    16 mins
  • Cheaper EV Batteries

    Cheaper EV Batteries
    Dec 11 2024
    Support the Show:PatreonAcast+Other Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle PlaylistLinks:Canadian EV SpreadsheetTrue North EVsManitoba EV AssociationNews:GM Cruise is deadEV battery prices are plummetingEV battery prices are downYou can buy a Hyundai on AmazonSAE working on Universal Plug and ChargeCostco and Electrify America rolling of DC Fast ChargersOver 90% of EV drivers would buy another EVBYD next-gen blade batteryStellantis and Zeta working on Lithium-Sulfur BatteriesSub $30k TeslaModel Q rumorsCybercab detailsReduced costs at the Supercharger California excludes TeslaElon fires back on CaliforniaSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/kilowatt. Support the show at https://plus.acast.com/s/kilowatt. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    26 mins
  • Elon's Pay Package Denied...Again

    Elon's Pay Package Denied...Again
    Dec 9 2024

    Description:

    Blah Blah Blah!


    Support the Show:

    • Patreon
    • Acast+


    Other Podcasts:

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


    News:

    • Telo Trucks Interview
    • Nosillacast w/ Pat Dengler

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

    Support the show at https://plus.acast.com/s/kilowatt.


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    23 mins
  • Rivian's Q3 2024 Earnings Call

    Rivian's Q3 2024 Earnings Call
    Dec 5 2024

    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.


    Support the Show:

    • Patreon
    • Acast+


    Other Podcasts:

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


    News:

    • Rivian's Q3 2024 Earnings Call

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

    Support the show at https://plus.acast.com/s/kilowatt.


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    29 mins
  • Kilowatt 49th Annual ThanksGiving Extravaganza

    Kilowatt 49th Annual ThanksGiving Extravaganza
    Nov 29 2024

    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.

    Support the show at https://plus.acast.com/s/kilowatt.


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    52 mins
  • Navigating Autonomy With Guy Mangiamele

    Navigating Autonomy With Guy Mangiamele
    Nov 26 2024

    Description:

    In this episode, I speak with Guy Mangiamele from AMCI Testing, an organization vital to independent automotive evaluations. We discuss their role in assessing autonomous driving, focusing on Tesla's full self-driving (FSD) system. Guy reveals that driver interventions were required every 11 miles in New York City and every 13 miles in Southern California, highlighting the need for ongoing supervision despite advancements. We also explore societal expectations of autonomy compared to technological realities. This conversation underscores the importance of independent testing in shaping automotive safety and transparency.


    Support the Show:

    • Patreon
    • Acast+


    Other Podcasts:

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


    Links:

    • AMCI Testing
    • AMCI Testing FSD Test Videos
    • AMCI Testing YouTube Channel

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

    Support the show at https://plus.acast.com/s/kilowatt.


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    53 mins
  • EV Data Made Fun with Allison Sheridan

    EV Data Made Fun with Allison Sheridan
    Nov 22 2024

    Description:

    In this episode, I chat with Allison Sheridan from the Nosillacast podcast about the U.S. Department of Energy's Alternative Fuels Data Center. We explore its extensive resources on electric vehicles, laws, incentives, and the significant 35% year over year increase in Level 3 charging stations. Allison highlights the complexities of infrastructure rollouts, as well as the data's potential to empower consumers in comparing EV specifications and incentives. We emphasize the importance of accessible information for both individuals and industry stakeholders, concluding with a discussion of Allison's projects in technology and community resources.


    Support the Show:

    • Patreon
    • Acast+


    Other Podcasts:

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


    Links:

    • Allison Sheridan - Podfeet.com
    • Bart Busschots - Lets-Talk.ie
    • US Department of Energy: Alternative Fuels Data Center

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

    Support the show at https://plus.acast.com/s/kilowatt.


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    34 mins
  • Too Fast, Too Distracted

    Too Fast, Too Distracted
    Nov 21 2024
    Description:In this episode of Kilowatt, I share a humorous moment where I nearly overlooked recording the show. I discuss recent industry news, including Stellantis's earnings call and the Rivian-Volkswagen partnership, as well as Chevy's free nighttime charging initiative and Ford's financing offers for 2024 models. I analyze CATL's focus on sodium-ion technology and address EV safety concerns related to Tesla accident rates. Support the Show:PatreonAcast+Other Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle PlaylistGraham's Pick: Solid State Battery NewsNews:Stellantis may change factories for 2nd LeapMotor vehicleChevy EV owners get free charging in Texas, kindaFord's EV discountsRivian and VW's Joint VentureCATL's grid and EV platform ambitionsCATL open to US battery factory in the USCATL's second gen Sodium-Ion battery cellsCATL's founder has words with ElonTesla improves Sentry Mode battery perforrmanceWhy are Tesla's involved in more fatal accidents Tesla's V4 Supercharger CabinetsSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/kilowatt. Support the show at https://plus.acast.com/s/kilowatt. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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    32 mins