Kilowatt: A Podcast About Tesla

Episode Summary:In this episode of Kilowatt, we analyze Lucid Group's Q2 2025 earnings call, featuring insights from interim CEO Mark Winterhoff and CFO Tawfiq Usaid. We explore key updates, including a remarkable 38% increase in vehicle deliveries year-over-year, alongside a notable partnership with Uber and Neuro to develop a next-gen premium robotaxi, highlighting Lucid's vision for the evolving electric vehicle landscape. Winterhoff discusses the company's strategic goals, focusing on manufacturing excellence and enhancing autonomous driving features amidst challenges like supply chain bottlenecks and tariff impacts on margins. The episode also examines marketing strategies and brand loyalty, particularly relating to new ambassadors, while revealing the financial pressures Lucid faces, including a concerning gross margin. As we reflect on Lucid's aspirations for a more affordable midsize vehicle, we consider the competitive landscape and Lucid's unwavering commitment to innovation in the electric veh

Description:In this episode, Bodie dives into the latest EV headlines with his usual humor and insight. He discusses California’s potential plan to replace the federal EV tax credit with a state-level alternative, NIO's continued global expansion, and the striking redesign of the 2026 Nissan Leaf. The Nikola Motors saga continues with High Road Energy scooping up the company's remaining hydrogen trucks at a steep discount. Tesla news includes the arrival of CyberCab production equipment at Giga Texas, the debut of the Model YL in China (and its uncertain U.S. future), and a $10,000 price bump for the Model S and X, bundled with the Luxe Package. Bodhi caps the episode with an impassioned and entertaining rant about the realities of autonomous vehicle adoption.Support the Showwww.supportkilowatt.comOther Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteFriends of the Show:True North EVsCNBC Slate FeatureLamarr WilsonNews Links:California Is Cooking Up A Way To Save The E

Episode Summary:In this episode, I explore Ford Motor Company's Q2 2025 earnings call, focusing on their $50 billion revenue and the impact of tariffs on their financial strategies. I highlight Ford's leadership in electrified vehicle sales and discuss the balance between legacy and electric offerings. We also examine Ford's Model E initiatives and autonomy strategies, including Blue Cruise. I provide a concise overview of Ford's financial health and outlook as they navigate the evolving automotive landscape toward sustainability.Support the Show:www.supportkilowatt.comOther Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteNews Links:Ford Q2 2025 Earnings Call – Official SourceSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/kilowatt. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Summary:In this episode of Kilowatt, I discuss the latest in electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy, starting with Lucid Motors' teaser for a new off-road EV concept. I share the unfortunate closure of Sono Motors and their auction of components for DIY enthusiasts. I analyze the Sony-Honda collaboration on the Afila One, a premium EV entering pre-production despite concerns over its price. I also cover Ford's "Model T moment" and their Universal EV Platform, expressing disappointment in the unveiling while cautiously optimistic about its potential. Updates on the NEVI federal EV charger funding round out the show. In closing, I reflect on the shifting EV landscape and the importance of collaboration, technology, and government support in shaping the future of transportation.Support the Show

Summary:Tesla headlines this week: Model 3/Y recall over brake line corrosion, Semi production pushed to 2026, Dojo shut down for AI pivot, contractor payment issues, SF robo-taxi pilot, Autopilot legal woes, and mixed service reviews. Broader EV news coming next episode.Support the show: www.supportkilowatt.comOther Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteNews Links:Tesla owes small businesses millions in unpaid bills | CNN PoliticsElon Musk confirms he killed Tesla Dojo | ElectrekTesla Semi mass production in 2026 | TeslaratiTesla FSD V14 gets tentative release date | TeslaratiElon confirms when Robotaxi is opening to the public: here’s when | TeslaratiTesla loses its head of service in North America | ElectrekElon Musk is stepping up for Tesla Service in a big way | TeslaratiTesla’s Dojo Isn’t Dead | Not a Tesla AppInvestigating the Tesla Robotaxi! | YouTubeTesla Bay Area autonomous fleet to grow | TeslaratiThe Tesla Autopilot lawsuit floodgates are ope

Description:In this episode, I share my firsthand experience with Grok, the AI chatbot now integrated into my vehicle. Initially skeptical, I've explored its features, including language learning assistance and personalized recommendations, while noting some execution shortcomings. The episode highlights my spontaneous interview with Grok, where we discuss important topics like privacy measures, Tesla's recent struggles, and the implications of AI ethics. Grok's insights into Tesla's reputation and potential strategies for regaining market trust prompt a discussion on the future of AI in our lives. Overall, I delve into the advantages and challenges of integrating AI technologies in everyday applications, especially within the automotive sectorSupport the Showwww.supportkilowatt.comOther PodcastsBeyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteNews LinksTeslaxAIGrokSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/kilowatt. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To celebrate 9 years of Kilowatt, we’re going back to where it all started — Episode 1. In this re-release, we revisit Tesla’s Master Plan: Part Deux and the vision Elon Musk laid out back in 2016.We’ll cover:The key points of Tesla’s second master planHow the Sparks Gigafactory fit into Tesla’s growth strategyPredictions from 2016 and how they’ve aged over the past 9 yearsWhether you’ve been here since the beginning or just joined us recently, it’s a great look back at the foundation of Kilowatt’s EV coverage.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/kilowatt. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Description:In this episode, we celebrate the ninth anniversary of the Kilowatt podcast while reflecting on our 625th episode milestone. To mark the occasion, I'm re-releasing the inaugural episode alongside our latest news update, highlighting my journey in podcasting. We explore critical developments in the electric vehicle landscape, including the downfall of Lordstown Motors and its factory's transition to new ownership. We examine Rivian's lawsuit against Ohio's sales regulations and discuss GM's impressive claim of a world record for EV range amid Lucid's assertions. Additionally, we analyze Tesla's new partnership with LG for battery production and the ramifications of a recent court ruling requiring Tesla to pay damages for an autopilot-related crash. Throughout the discussion, I aim to provide a nuanced perspective on the EV industry's exciting advancements and ongoing challenges.Support the Showwww.supportkilowatt.comOther PodcastsBeyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digi

Episode Summary:In this episode, we analyze General Motors’ Q2 2025 earnings call with insights from CEO Mary Barra and CFO Paul Jacobson. We explore GM's leadership in the electric vehicle market, highlighting the success of Chevrolet and Cadillac models and initiatives to enhance EV charging infrastructure. The discussion covers GM’s technology strategy, profitability amidst tariffs, and adaptations to market challenges. We also address GM's focus on robotics and automation to improve manufacturing efficiency, showcasing a multifaceted approach to thrive in the evolving automotive landscape.Support the Show:Support KilowattOther Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteNews Links:GM's Q2 2025 Earnings CallSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/kilowatt. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Description:In this episode of Kilowatt, we cover a wide range of developments from the EV world. Volkswagen is doubling down on solid-state battery tech with a $131 million investment in QuantumScape, bringing their total stake to nearly half a billion dollars. Over in China, the budget-friendly Geely Xingyuan has taken the crown as the best-selling car of the first half of 2025, outselling the BYD Seagull and Tesla Model Y. We also touch on Tesla’s massive $16.5 billion chip deal with Samsung, which will power their upcoming HW6. Plus, a massive real-world driver-assist system test in China involving 36 vehicles and 216 simulated crashes highlights the current limitations of Level 2 autonomy systems. And yes, a boar really does make a cameo.Support the Show:www.supportkilowatt.comOther Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteNews Links:Volkswagen Is Pouring Millions More Into Solid-State Battery DevelopmentThis $10,000 EV outsold the BYD Seagull and Tesla Mod

Episode Summary:In this episode, Bodie dives into Tesla's Q2 2025 earnings call, offering real-time reactions and analysis. Elon Musk announced the successful launch and expansion of Tesla's Robotaxi service in Austin, with ambitious goals to reach half the U.S. population by year-end—pending regulatory approval. Bodie examines the feasibility of this rollout and critiques Elon’s commentary style during earnings calls. He also explores Tesla’s updates on full self-driving (FSD) capabilities, including growing adoption and plans for unsupervised FSD in certain jurisdictions. Additional highlights include Tesla Energy's record deployments, the Optimus humanoid robot roadmap, financial impacts of tariffs and regulatory changes, and the implications of Elon’s control over Tesla amid AI advancements. Bodie closes with reflections on Ozzy Osbourne and a teaser for an upcoming podcast season.Support the Show:Support KilowattOther Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital Websi

Kilowatt 621: Lamarr Wilson on EV Choices, Leasing Decisions, and Content CreationIn this episode, content creator Lamarr Wilson joins us to talk about his decision-making process around EVs—specifically whether to stick with his leased Tesla Model Y, switch to the upcoming Juniper refresh, or jump ship to something entirely different like the BMW iX or the Mercedes-Benz EQB.We cover:What Lamarr loves and doesn’t love about his Model YWhy leasing might make more sense for creatorsHow BMW and Mercedes stack up as alternativesThe importance of price, tech, and comfort in real-world EV choicesBehind the scenes of Lamarr’s social media processCars mentioned in this episode:Tesla Model Y: https://www.tesla.com/modelyBMW iX xDrive50: https://www.bmwusa.com/vehicles/all-electric/ix/suv/electric.htmlMercedes-Benz EQB: https://www.mbusa.com/en/vehicles/class/eqb/suvFollow Lamarr Wilson:Instagram: @lamarrwilsonTikTok: @lamarrwilsonYouTube: Lamarr WilsonWebsite: LamarrWilson.comSupport

Description:In this episode of Kilowatt, we dive deep into Uber's ambitious expansion into autonomous mobility and delivery services. The company is partnering with a host of tech innovators, including Cartken for robotic food delivery, Avride for mobility solutions, and May Mobility for scalable autonomous vehicles. Uber is also collaborating with Baidu and WeRide to accelerate self-driving deployments across numerous cities. Meanwhile, Volkswagen is contributing its ID. Buzz vehicles to Uber’s future robotaxi fleet, and Lucid is providing 20,000 Gravity SUVs outfitted with Nuro’s autonomous driver system. These strategic moves position Uber as a major player in the evolving landscape of urban transportation and robotic logistics.Support the Showwww.supportkilowatt.comOther Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteNews Links:Uber Partners Cartken to Provide Six-wheeled Robots for Food DeliveryUber Scaling — Serve RoboticsUber and Avride Announce Autonomous Del

Episode 619: Tesla's Wild Rides, GM's Battery Gambit & EcoFlow's Home Backup BeastWe dive into the latest headlines electrifying the EV and clean tech world. Tesla plans to offer FSD transfers in Europe, giving longtime owners a rare win. Robotaxi fares have reached new comedic heights as Tesla expands service areas. In India, Tesla launches the Model Y, but local pricing remains a significant barrier. GM ramps up production of affordable LFP batteries in Tennessee, aiming to bring down EV costs. Plus, EcoFlow unveils its Ocean Pro—a smart, scalable home battery backup system. We also check out Hyundai’s newly uncovered electric Staria minivan, and the Tesla Diner nears completion, looking like a scene from a retro-futuristic dream.Support the Showwww.supportkilowatt.comOther Podcasts918Digital WebsiteNews Links:Tesla Expected to Offer FSD Transfers in EuropeTesla ups Robotaxi fare price to another comical figure with service area expansionTesla launches in India with Model Y, showing pricing will be bigg

Kilowatt 618: Tesla's Shareholder Shake-Up & Robotaxi PushIn this episode of Kilowatt, we dive deep into Tesla's upcoming 2025 shareholder meeting, which has been pushed back to November 6th. We explore the reasons behind the delay and the expectations surrounding the event. Also on the agenda: Tesla’s clearing in the Canadian EV rebate investigation and the company’s accelerating robotaxi certification efforts in Arizona. We touch on the controversy over GrokAI's recent issues, highlight which EVs qualify for the 2025 federal tax credit, and examine a potential $200 billion valuation for Elon Musk’s xAI venture. Plus, we take a look at who the top Tesla shareholders are.Support the Show:www.supportkilowatt.comOther Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteNews Links:Top Tesla Shareholders – InvestopediaMusk’s xAI Seeks $200 Billion Valuation – ReutersBest EVs for Federal Tax Credit in 2025 – InsideEVsTesla Cleared in Canada EV Rebate Probe – TeslaratiTesla

Episode Description:In this episode of Kilowatt, Bodie dives into the latest EV and Tesla news, including some promising developments and a few red flags. Kia teases a sub-$30,000 electric vehicle, while Ford unveils a bold new EV promotion featuring $0 down and 0% interest. Bodie also unpacks critical updates to federal EV tax credits under new legislation that could significantly reshape buyer incentives. Tesla makes waves with a massive off-grid Supercharger station in California and a quiet Model S Plaid refresh. In a compelling deep dive, Bodie explores a Tesla owner's successful arbitration over unfulfilled Full Self-Driving promises—one that could set a powerful precedent. As always, expect thoughtful analysis and a few laughs along the way.Support the Showwww.supportkilowatt.comOther Podcasts:Beyond the Post YouTubeBeyond the Post PodcastShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteNews Links:Tesla settles with owner who sued over Full Self-Driving (FSD) claimsFord launches new $0 down, 0% interest summer sales

Description:In this episode of Kilowatt, we discuss EV myths. We dive into the future of the U.S. EV tax credit & Tesla’s fluctuating market dominance as the Model Y is no longer the world’s best-selling car. We cover Rivian’s new billion-dollar investment from Volkswagen, and Tesla’s launch of a new LFP battery factory & updates on its virtual Supercharger queue testing. Finally, Elon Musk shares insight into Tesla Robotaxi safety monitor changes, & Tesla introduces a 'Pay Later' service invoice option.Support the Showwww.supportkilowatt.comOther Podcasts:• Beyond the Post YouTube• Beyond the Post Podcast• Shuffle Playlist• 918Digital WebsiteNews Links:• Fifth of drivers think washing an EV could give an electric shock - Motor Trade News• Exploring Silly EV Myths - CleanTechnica• The EV Tax Credit Is Dead. Here’s Why I Still Have Hope - InsideEVs• Tesla Model Y Dethroned As World’s Best Selling Car - InsideEVs• Tesla Begins Virtual Supercharger Queue T

Episode Summary:I messed up and didn't post this on Wednesday. Support the Show:www.supportkilowatt.comOther Podcasts:• Beyond the Post YouTube• Beyond the Post Podcast• Shuffle Playlist• 918Digital WebsiteSources:Tesla confirms Cybertruck sales are down to just ~5,000 unitsXPENG Sales Soar 242%!Tesla (TSLA) confirms 384,000 deliveries in Q2 2025, right on expectationsNIO Sales Up 26% Year Over YearGeneral Motors' EV Sales Doubled As Tesla's ShrankFord explains why its EV sales crashed by nearly a third in Q2Tesla's Q2 2024 Delivery NumbersShow Art Created By Dall-eSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/kilowatt. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Summary:In this episode of the Kilowatt podcast, I explore the challenges of RoboTaxis, referred to as "Robo Oopsies." I assess listener Peter's experience with his Ford Escape hybrid and how driving habits affect electric range. We discuss Tesla’s regulatory hurdles in Europe, including recent scrutiny over its marketing terms, and halted autonomous testing in Stockholm. I also highlight Elon Musk's fully autonomous Model Y delivery, raising safety concerns. Through real-world examples from creators, I illustrate the strengths and challenges faced by RoboTaxis. I advocate for the technology's potential benefits for non-drivers while urging a cautious outlook on its future development.Support the Show:Help keep Kilowatt running: SupportKilowatt.comOther Podcasts:Beyond the Post PodcastBeyond the Post YouTubeShuffle Playlist918Digital WebsiteYouTubers:KimJavaDave LeeDirty TeslaFarzadTesla DailyNews Links:NHTSA Data Collection Methods – NHTSA.govFrance Threatens Tesla Over FSD Naming

Episode Description:In this episode of Kilowatt, I explore the intricacies of Tesla's Robotaxi initiative and the broader implications of autonomous driving technology. I begin with a discussion on hydrogen vehicles, addressing production challenges and recent advancements in green hydrogen technology. Transitioning to Robotaxi, I provide an overview of its rollout, including new regulatory guidelines that could expedite its deployment. I also assess Tesla's autonomous performance against competitors and critique media comparisons that impact public perception of safety. Additionally, I analyze the functionality of the Robotaxi app launched in Austin, discussing its current user experience and potential improvements. Concluding with an examination of regulatory hurdles and user feedback mechanisms, I set the stage for future discussions on the evolving landscape of autonomous vehicles.Support the Show:www.supportkilowatt.comOther Podcasts:• Beyond the Post YouTube• Beyond the Post Podcast• Shuf