258: It Depends on Context

Toyota’s big news involves the announcement of two new EVs, and neither overwhelm nor disappoint. We have the specs. We also have news on Ford’s new low-cost EV development, and everything looks good! In other news, the elimination of stop-start tech may lead to more hybrids, Chinese automakers may be getting closer to the U.S., and more. Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, Spotify, PocketCasts, iHeartRadio, Podbean, and more! Or heck, use your favorite podcast application. Perhaps you prefer to watch as well as listen. If so, we’ve got you covered. SHOW NOTES Toyota Highlander EV debuts. Similar specs to bZ: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a70293168/2027-toyota-highlander-ev-revealed/ Toyota bZ Woodland: https://electrek.co/2026/02/17/toyota-reveals-2026-bz-woodland-prices-newest-electric-suv/ More details on Ford’s low-cost EV platform emerge: https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a70390625/2028-ford-mid-size-electric-truck-details/ EPA “eliminates” auto stop/start: https://www.theautopian.com/the-epa-just-eliminated-automaker-benefits-for-stop-start-tech-heres-what-that-means-for-your-next-car/ Trump’s EPA revokes scientific finding that underpinned US fight against climate change https://apnews.com/live/trump-immigration-climate-change-2-12-2026 Volvo says new chassis architecture could enable a wagon comeback: https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/volvo-estates-could-return-new-platform-allows-proper-low-evs Geely, BYD, VinFast eyeing takeover of Nissan/Mercedes plant in Mexico: https://www.cnbc.com/2026/02/12/seeking-mexico-foothold-chinas-byd-and-geely-bid-to-buy-car-plant.html This week’s hosts: Phil Royle and Edward A. Sanchez Episode art courtesy Toyota Music courtesy Twisterium at Pixabay Website: https://www.thewattcar.com Buy merch: https://www.thewattcar.com/store YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewattcar