Description

In this episode of Kilowatt, I cover Tesla's Q3 2026 earnings call, including updates on Full Self-Driving, Robotaxi, CyberCab, Optimus, and Tesla's energy business. Elon Musk discusses Tesla's plans to increase vehicle production to five million annually by 2030, expand autonomous driving into additional markets, and ramp up Megapack production. I take a closer look at Tesla's Robotaxi expansion plans, including the company's goal of reaching 30 cents per paid mile and what that could mean for owners hoping to earn money by putting their vehicles on the network. We also get updates on Optimus, including manufacturing challenges, AI training, improvements to...

In this episode of Kilowatt, I revisit my comments about whether Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) should be free and clarify why my issue isn't with Tesla charging for the technology, but with Elon Musk's messaging about the potential loss of life if regulators don't approve it. I also respond to listener feedback, discuss Tesla's safety claims, and explain why I'd like to see more independent verification of FSD's safety data.

After subscribing to FSD for $99 a month, I share my experiences with versions 12.6 and 14.3 Lite while driving around Phoenix and Tucson. While FSD has improved significantly since...

Tesla finally unveiled its updated Roadster on October 15, nearly nine years after its original announcement, and the event featured some remarkable demonstrations of engineering. In this episode, we compare the new Roadster with the version Tesla promised in 2017, including changes to its design, performance, range, and production timeline. We break down the vehicle's different configurations, from the standard rear-wheel-drive model to the Rocket version equipped with cold-gas thrusters capable of launching the car into the air. We also explore the technology behind its ground-effect suction fans, the Venturi effect, and how that same principle has been used in firefighting...

Kim Lundgren of Kim Lundgren Associates returns to Kilowatt to talk about electric vehicles, sustainability, and why going 100% electric isn't always the best approach. Kim starts by sharing how she chose a Hyundai IONIQ 5 for her teenage daughter's first car, comparing it with Volvo's electric offerings and explaining why charging, technology, safety, and long-term reliability influenced her decision. The conversation then shifts to municipal fleets and whether cities should be pushing to electrify every vehicle, including fire trucks, garbage trucks, and public works equipment. Kim explains why a more practical approach, replacing vehicles as needed and prioritizing applications where...

Volkswagen is recalling more than 22,000 ID.4s over a potential battery fire risk, while Einride has deployed fully autonomous electric trucks in Ohio. Rivian is getting into the Halloween spirit with a Ghostbusters-themed software update, complete with a special Ecto-1-inspired R1S, and BYD has filed a patent for a new battery cooling system that submerges battery modules in a specialized liquid. In Tesla news, the company has officially adopted the name "Dumb Summon" for its original Summon feature as part of a broader rebranding effort in Europe. Tesla has also renamed Full Self-Driving to Tesla Assisted Driving...

Affordable EVs are back in the spotlight with the Kia EV3, which starts under $30,000 and offers up to 321 miles of range with its larger battery pack. The show also looks at the updated Pebble Flow electric travel trailer, with its 45 kWh battery, expanded solar setup, powered wheels, and a price tag that puts all that camping convenience firmly into luxury territory. Jaguar takes things in a completely different direction with the Type 01, a four-seat electric GT packing more than 1,000 horsepower, a claimed 400 miles of range, and a design that feels equal parts retro and futuristic. Tesla's Q3 2026 production and...

Bodie checks in from the Big Island of Hawaii with a couple of unexpected connections, including a visit to Kona Sea Salt and an introduction to Root & Rise Hawaiʻi, an organization using nature, art, and community to support mental health and well-being. Then it’s an all-renewable-energy episode, starting with what happens to solar panels when they reach the end of their useful lives and why recycling them is still an economic challenge. Sweden is preparing for a future where tens of thousands of metric tons of solar panels could be retired every year, while researchers and recyclers loo...

In this episode of Kilowatt, Bodie starts with Europe’s first fully driverless robotaxi rides as Verne and Pony.ai put modified Arcfox Alpha T5s on the streets of Zagreb. ProLogium is moving its solid-state battery technology closer to automotive use, with Gen 3.5 cells in mass production and Mercedes-Benz securing priority access to its upcoming Gen 4 cells. Cyclic Materials has opened a new rare-earth recycling facility in Mesa, Arizona, while VinFast has turned its VF Wild pickup concept into an extended-range EV with around 155 miles of battery-only range.

On the Tesla side, FSD v14.2 Lite is be...

Episode Description

I recorded an entire episode about what I thought was Tesla’s 2026 Semi event. It turns out I had watched the earlier event, so I’m releasing both recordings. In the first episode, I cover Tesla’s presentation of the truck, including its drivetrain, range demonstration, charging system, driver features, and delivery to Pepsi. In the second, I cover the actual 2026 event and the changes Tesla says it made after getting feedback from fleets and drivers. That includes updated efficiency figures, a redesigned thermal system, changes inside the cab, service plans, and the Megacharger rollout. Togeth...

Episode Description

I recorded an entire episode about what I thought was Tesla’s 2026 Semi event. It turns out I had watched the earlier event, so I’m releasing both recordings. In the first episode, I cover Tesla’s presentation of the truck, including its drivetrain, range demonstration, charging system, driver features, and delivery to Pepsi. In the second, I cover the actual 2026 event and the changes Tesla says it made after getting feedback from fleets and drivers. That includes updated efficiency figures, a redesigned thermal system, changes inside the cab, service plans, and the Megacharger rollout. Togeth...

Kilowatt Show Notes

BYD is expanding its European manufacturing plans with three EV factories and a battery factory, while its first European plant in Hungary prepares to ramp up production. Lucid and Bolt are teaming up on a fleet of autonomous EVs for Europe using Lucid’s upcoming midsize platform, with NVIDIA Hyperion technology playing a role in the Level 4 autonomy effort. Kia’s purpose-built EV lineup is also growing, with the PV5 passing 50,000 global sales and the larger PV7 offering passenger and cargo configurations. Tesla says its Robotaxi service is expected to move toward 24/7 operation alongside FSD V15, while customer vehicles shou...

Kia is offering substantial discounts on the 2026 EV9, including $10,000 in customer cash and even larger discounts at some dealers. CATL unveiled its TECTRANS II commercial vehicle battery platform, designed to make heavy-duty electric trucks easier to integrate while offering up to 621 miles of claimed range, megawatt charging, and a long service life. GM is showing off a new infotainment interface on upcoming gas-powered Sierra and Silverado models that puts Apple CarPlay or Android Auto alongside vehicle controls, raising the possibility that the setup could eventually make its way to GM’s EVs. Tesla has added insurance estimates to its ve...

Bodie reviews the Snuuzu mattress designed for sleeping in a Tesla, testing the Model Y version for comfort, setup, storage, and everyday usability. The mattress combines an inflatable base with foam and breathable layers, includes a removable USB-C rechargeable pump, and is shaped to make use of the Model Y's available sleeping space. Bodie walks through inflating and deflating the mattress, packing it back into its duffel bag, and the different places it can be stored in the car. He also tests how well the mattress supports the gap created when the rear seats are folded and how comfortable...

Toyota says reports of another Highlander EV delay are incorrect, while Ford sets an ambitious first-year sales target for its upcoming $30,000 Fathom electric pickup. BYD continues the rapid expansion of its ultra-fast charging network in China, and Waymo has accumulated more than 8,300 San Francisco parking tickets since the beginning of 2025. We also look at just how many EV models are currently available in the United States before moving into Tesla news. Tesla’s latest stories include a built-in browser ad blocker, European Semi specifications, Cybertruck and Powerwall home backup support, and a Model 3 taxi that has reached 250,000 miles with re...

Toyota is recalling roughly 10,000 2026 C-HR EVs because a regenerative-braking software issue could lead to a loss of power while driving. Audi is bringing back the A2 name for a compact new EV, with three battery sizes, bidirectional charging, and up to 401 miles of WLTP range, although a U.S. launch doesn't appear to be in the cards. The UK new-car market had an unusually strong August, with battery-electric registrations climbing 27.7% year over year and the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y taking the top two spots among EVs. On the Tesla side, FSD V14 Lite appears to be getting closer...

Tesla’s Cybercab is now carrying passengers in Austin, and this episode takes a comprehensive look at what Tesla revealed about the purpose-built robotaxi and how it works in the real world. The Cybercab introduces Tesla’s unboxed manufacturing process, reaction-injection-molded body panels, a smaller and lighter drive unit without rare-earth materials, a 48 kWh structural battery pack, electronic brakes, and a camera-only sensor suite. The updated Robotaxi experience lets riders choose between a Cybercab and Model Y, carries preferences between rides, and offers controls through the vehicle’s 22-inch display, the Tesla app, and voice commands. The episode also looks...

EV sales are approaching total market dominance in Norway, while China’s July numbers show battery electric vehicles growing even as every other major powertrain category declined. Toyota’s upcoming three-row Highlander EV has reportedly been delayed again, with its launch now expected sometime in 2027 or later. Kia is recalling more than 21,000 EV9s because of an issue with the occupant detection system that could prevent the passenger airbag from deactivating when a child or child seat is in the front seat. The Kia EV3 brings another relatively affordable electric option with up to 321 miles of range, while the Hyun...

This week, we start with Lucid’s recall of more than 27,000 Air sedans over a low-voltage exterior lighting issue and the software update that addresses the potential fire risk, along with a broader look at how often “park outside” warnings involve gas-powered vehicles. Hyundai is moving further into extended-range EVs, with plans that include the Santa Fe and Genesis models offering more than 600 miles of combined electric and gas range. We also look at Schneider Electric’s approach to home EV charging, which uses dynamic load management as a possible alternative to an expensive electrical panel upgrade. Tesla news includes...

Bodie sits down with IONNA CEO Seth Cutler to talk about what it takes to build an EV charging network around reliability, customer experience, and the places drivers actually want to stop. Seth explains how lessons from his time at GE, Electrify America, and EV Connect have shaped IONNA's approach, from purpose-built Rechargeries and driver lounges to retail partnerships and the company's upcoming Beacon locations. They discuss the work happening behind the scenes to keep chargers and payment systems working, including IONNA's in-house software, proactive maintenance, and use of AI to identify potential problems before drivers encounter them. Seth...

In this episode, we cover Lucid Group’s second quarter 2026 earnings call and the company’s new direction under CEO Silvio Napoli. Napoli lays out three priorities for Lucid—cash and cost, customer and quality, and culture and team—as the company works to reduce cash burn, improve liquidity, and better align production with demand. We look at the workforce reductions and changes at Lucid’s Arizona factory, along with efforts to improve the ownership experience through expanded service support, mobile service capacity, and tighter software and quality controls. The call also provides updates on Gravity and several of Lucid’s ma...

This week on Kilowatt, we start with Rivian’s R1S and R1T turn-signal recall before looking at the 2027 R1S and its new captain’s chairs. We also cover BYD’s updated Denza N8, growing EV registrations in Ireland, and a U.S. market where new EV sales are struggling while used EV sales set records. In Tesla news, we look at the new $35-per-month Powerwall lease in Texas, plans for an Austin Robotaxi charging facility with wireless charging, the upcoming Cybercab event, and a DIY Hardware 4 retrofit on a 2022 Model 3. Then James Hart from True North EV joi...

Rivian’s second-quarter 2026 earnings call puts the R2 front and center as production ramps in Normal and the company prepares to add a second shift. Bodie shares his own R2 demo-drive impressions, including the interior, ride quality, software, and the current state of Autonomy Plus, while questioning how many R2s Rivian has actually delivered so far. The call also lays out Rivian’s aggressive autonomy roadmap, with point-to-point driving expected later this year, hands-off/eyes-off capability targeted for 2027, and Level 4 capability planned for 2028. RJ Scaringe discusses stronger-than-expected reservation conversions for the R2 Launch Edition, what Rivian learned from the...

This week, Bodie covers Volvo’s upcoming EX50, Oregon’s revamped EV rebate program, and Ford’s newly named Fathom electric pickup. On the Tesla side, he discusses whether owners should be able to transfer purchased FSD after a vehicle is totaled, the Roadster’s latest “very soon” promise, Tesla’s new North American map update, and the decision not to bring back a manually adjustable FSD maximum speed. He also looks at extended-range EV maintenance and whether their gas engines may require less attention than you might expect. The second half of the episode turns to a 2023 Chevy Bolt rented fo...

Description:

Bodie is joined by Tom Appel, publisher of Consumer Guide and co-host of the Car Stuff Podcast, for a wide-ranging conversation about reviewing cars, buying them, and where the EV market is headed. Tom shares his experience driving the Lucid Gravity, including what impressed him and the software glitches that made an otherwise compelling luxury EV difficult to recommend without reservations. The conversation turns to what new cars actually cost today, increasingly long auto loans, and the things Tom and his daughter learned while shopping for a new compact crossover. They also talk about unusual option...

Happy 10 Years of Kilowatt!

This week marks the 10th anniversary of Kilowatt, and Bodie takes a moment to reflect on 728 episodes, the incredible community that has supported the show, and the unexpected opportunities podcasting has created over the last decade. He also shares a personal update before diving into a packed week of EV news recorded from multiple locations on his way to Alaska. Topics include Lucid delaying the Cosmos SUV, Ford's Mustang Mach-E recall, BYD's record-breaking exports, Hyundai's affordable IONIQ 3, and Leapmotor's newest compact EV. The episode also explores China's latest ultra-fast charging breakthrough, the promise...

In this episode of Kilowatt, host Bodie sits down with Sam Fiorani, Vice President of Global Vehicle Forecasting at Auto Forecast Solutions and automotive historian. Sam breaks down how industry production forecasting actually works and shares key insights into the evolving EV market, the realistic potential of E-REVs (extended-range electric vehicles), and the ongoing challenge of designing intuitive vehicle infotainment systems. The conversation turns nostalgic as Sam details his work as a board member for the Boyertown Museum of Historic Vehicles, home to a century’s worth of historic electric transportation, including an EV delivery truck from 1912. From modern co...

This week on Kilowatt, we dive into the latest electric vehicle headlines shaping the industry landscape. Buick makes waves in the EV market with its stylish Electra L7 sedan, signaling an exciting shift for the traditional brand. Meanwhile, internal Tesla news takes center stage as self-driving managers detail hazardous robotaxi testing scenarios, alongside a high-stakes legal battle with a key Cybertruck supplier threatening production timelines. On a brighter note, Tesla steps up humanitarian efforts by offering free Supercharging to all electric vehicles during European wildfire relief while securing clean energy via a massive 140 MW Texas solar farm. Finally, we...

In this weekend edition of Kilowatt, host Bodie breaks down the latest electric vehicle market developments, headline-grabbing concept reveals, and major software updates from Tesla. The episode kicks off with a detailed look at MG's newly unveiled Go! concept car, a punchy two-door hatchback shown off at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Regional market numbers reveal significant EV adoption growth across France, Germany, and the UK, with the Tesla Model Y, Renault 5, and VW ID.3 dominating registration charts. On the Tesla front, Elon Musk announced plans to open-source the designs and software for the Model S and Model X...

Tesla’s Q2 2026 earnings call brought big updates on high-stakes bets, hardware upgrades, and aggressive infrastructure scaling. Host Bodie breaks down Elon Musk's ambitious vision, covering record Model Y deliveries, soaring FSD adoption, and the push toward unsupervised Robotaxi deployments across major cities. The episode analyzes Tesla’s massive CapEx expansion—from the Fremont Optimus line to Megapods and the newly teased TerraFab project—while questioning the timeline for generalized humanoid tasks and full self-driving hardware retrofits. Bodie also tackles tough retail investor questions from Say.com that executive leadership dodged, including CyberCab volume targets and SpaceX collaboration details. Tune in...

Episode Summary

Welcome to a weekend edition of Kilowatt, where we break down the latest shifts in electric vehicles, autonomous driving, and renewable energy. In this episode, we dive into the details of California's newly structured EV rebate program and explore Norway's staggering, world-leading 98.1% EV registration market share dominated by the Tesla Model Y. We also discuss the impending arrival of affordable Chinese EVs like Dongfeng's Nami Box and Vigo into the Canadian market under reduced tariffs. Turning to Tesla news, we unpack the recent recall of nearly 20,000 older Model 3 and Model Y vehicles due to overly...

On this episode of Kilowatt, host Bodie sits down with returning guest and New Zealand resident Sean Howarth to explore the world of electric bikes. Sean shares his transition from professional bike mechanic and scenic trail tour guide to becoming a local franchisee and distributor for MeloYelo, a Kiwi-owned e-bike company designed for New Zealand's rugged terrain. Together, they break down the structural differences between hub motors and mid-drive motors, the practical benefits of step-through frames, and how thumb throttles from a complete stop can level the playing field for riders of all ages and fitness levels. Sean also...

In this weekend edition of Kilowatt, I chat about a new production philosophy to balance his full-time commitments, shifting to flexible weekly and weekend editions. This Tesla-focused episode dives deep into the hardware blueprint of the highly anticipated CyberCab, highlighting its ultra-efficient powertrain, 48-volt architecture, 4680 battery cells, and an exclusive upgraded AI4+ FSD computer with expanded RAM capacity. Bodie provides critical context for emergency personnel by breaking down the newly released CyberCab First Responder Guide, mapping out the specific protocols, chocking requirements, and sensor modalities needed to safely disable Level 4 autonomous mode on active scenes. The episode also tracks...

Summary

In this episode of Kilowatt, we dive deep into the shifting landscape of the electric vehicle industry, starting with major structural shakeups and layoffs at Lucid Motors under new CEO Silvio Napoli. We also unpack why Slate Auto is bypassing Canada for its highly customizable, budget-friendly electric pickup, alongside a detailed look at Subaru’s impressive new 2027 EV lineup featuring the Trailseeker and Uncharted. Overseas, European automakers are pivoting from massive SUVs to highly affordable, compact city EVs to counter a massive push from Chinese brands, while the UK celebrates an explosive month with battery electric ve...

In this episode, we dive into Tesla's spectacular rebound as they crush Wall Street expectations with their fourth-best quarter ever, driven by a massive 25% surge in Q2 deliveries. We also break down the surprising news of the U.S. government muscling Polestar out of the American market over connected vehicle rules, leading to staggering $25,000 discounts on remaining stock. Plus, Tesla officially launches its highly anticipated, larger 6-seat Model Y L in the States, offering a compelling blend of space and range. Over at Lucid, a major C-suite overhaul signals shifting strategies following recent layoffs, while Rivian celebrates a stellar...

In this episode of Kilowatt, we dive into the latest developments shaking up the electric vehicle market, starting with Tesla's surprising decision to open Model S Signature Edition orders in Europe. We also examine the regulatory landscape as the NHTSA updates rules allowing the upcoming Tesla Cybercab to ditch brake pedals entirely, alongside new details on its strict weight limits and recent sightings in New Zealand. Safety and legal battles take center stage as we break down Tesla's recent settlement over a fatal Full Self-Driving crash in Texas and look at a groundbreaking feature that uses vehicle cameras to...

This episode of Kilowatt delivers a packed legal and technical update on the state of autonomous driving and electric vehicle innovations. We open with a deep dive into the tragic and heavily scrutinized Tesla crash in Texas, tracing how the story evolved from early media reports to a federal NHTSA probe and Tesla’s recent legal settlement. Next, we check in on the global EV landscape, following the latest design leaks for the upcoming Lucid Cosmos and details on Lucid's robotaxi partnership expanding to Houston. We also break down the engineering limits of Tesla’s highly anticipated Cybercab and exam...

SUMMARY

In this episode of Kilowatt, we sit down for an engaging chat about technology law, ethics, and cyber security with Dr. Steven A. Wright. As an expert in navigating the complex intersection of law and emerging engineering tech, Dr. Wright shares critical insights into the security challenges facing the evolving EV infrastructure and power grids. We discuss the legal responsibilities of developers, the ethical ramifications of autonomous tech, and how modern architecture must adapt to protect user privacy and system integrity. Whether you are an engineer, a tech enthusiast, or simply curious about the legal frameworks...

In this episode of Kilowatt, we dive into Ford's latest electric vehicle strategy as the automaker begins building low-cost LFP battery cells in the United States. This move is aimed directly at keeping competitors like Rivian at bay while paving the way for a highly anticipated $30,000 EV pickup truck. Meanwhile, autonomous driving hits a bump in the road with Waymo issuing a software recall after robotaxis struggled to navigate closed highway construction lanes. We also examine the growing regulatory pressure on semi-autonomous tech, highlighting a new New Jersey legislative bill and federal lawmakers pushing the NHTSA to investigate Tesla's...