Episode 832 of the Autoblog Podcast features Editor-in-Chief Greg Migliore and Senior Editor John Beltz Snyder. The episode covers a range of topics, including their experiences driving the new Chevy Traverse, BMW X5 M Competition, and the Fiat 500e. They also delve into the news surrounding Tesla’s abandonment of its lower-cost EV model and the potential implications of this decision.
According to The Information, Tesla scrapped its Model 2 when it was reportedly almost completed. This surprising development raises questions about the reasoning behind this decision and what it means for Tesla’s future product lineup. While specific details are not provided in the podcast episode, recent reports suggest that Tesla may have chosen to prioritize other models or make adjustments based on market demand.
Shifting focus to a collaboration in the automotive industry, Subaru and Toyota are joining forces once again to develop three new electric vehicles (EVs) by 2026. This partnership highlights the growing trend of automakers combining their resources and expertise to accelerate the adoption of electric mobility. The Subaru-Toyota partnership is expected to result in the creation of innovative EVs that offer consumers attractive options in terms of performance, range, and affordability.
Another important topic discussed in the podcast is President Biden’s decision to increase tariffs on Chinese chips and cars. The potential impact of these tariffs on the automotive industry is analyzed, with the hosts highlighting the complexities and potential unintended consequences of such policies. While tariffs aim to protect domestic industries, they can also lead to increased prices for consumers and reduced competitiveness for manufacturers. It remains to be seen how these tariffs will play out in the long term and whether they will achieve their intended goals.
In response to listener questions, the hosts take some time to address the future of Rivian, an electric vehicle startup that has gained significant attention in recent years. Rivian has generated excitement with its innovative electric trucks and SUVs, but questions remain about the company’s ability to deliver on its promises. The hosts discuss the challenges that Rivian may face in terms of production capacity, competition from established automakers, and the overall market reception of electric trucks. While optimistic about Rivian’s potential, they also share some cautionary notes about the realities of bringing a new automotive brand to market.
Finally, the podcast concludes with an announcement highlighting Autoblog’s availability on smart speakers and voice assistants. Listeners can now access the audio Autoblog Daily Digest by saying “Hey Google, play the news from Autoblog” or “Alexa, open Autoblog.” This new feature allows enthusiasts to stay up-to-date with the latest automotive news and enjoy narrated stories and comprehensive test drive breakdowns in a convenient audio format.
Overall, this episode of the Autoblog Podcast provides listeners with a wealth of information and insights into current automotive developments. From the latest vehicle reviews to industry news and analysis, the hosts offer an engaging and informative discussion that appeals to both casual car enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.