PODCAST · technology
Overdrive
by David Brown
Overdrive: Cars, Transport and Culture.A weekly radio program featuring motoring & transport news from Australia & around the world, road tests, feature interviews & quirky stories.David Brown is a respected motoring broadcaster heard online and across Australia on commercial, public and community radio.
Episodes
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EV show, Insuring Autonomous cars, and GAC Aion UT
Episode Breakdown • Everything Electric – 00:02:18 • Automated driving and insurance – 00:09:27 • Petrol prices and transport disadvantage – 00:20:39 • Recreating the Lotus Esprit – 00:26:01 • Motoring books of the year – 00:31:09 • Fuel-efficient replacement tyres – 00:41:04 • GAC Aion UT Luxury...
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Brock’s legacy, Pajero returns, GAC M Zoom, & more
Peter Brock’s influence beyond Bathurst leads an episode spanning motoring history, changing global car strategies and new-market competition. David Brown and Paul Murrell examine the revived Mitsubishi Pajero, Volkswagen’s uncertain plans for SEAT, and China’s rapid transport development. A...
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Road pricing, EV charging, showroom robots, HiLux
David Brown and Paul Murrell examine how road-user charging could reshape Australian transport, including congestion, fairness and where the revenue goes. They consider curbside EV charging as public infrastructure, AI-powered robots in car dealerships and Mahindra's aggressive SUV discounts....
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Road safety, smarter e-bikes, Genesis EV, New RAV4
Overdrive: Road safety, smarter e-bikes, EV innovation and the new Toyota RAV4 David Brown and Paul Murrell explore workplace road safety, e-bike technology and changing approaches to vehicle design. They examine the Genesis GV90 luxury EV, Ferrari's extraordinary Luce charity auction,...
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Bigger vehicles, smarter maps, and Mazda CX-5
Bigger vehicles and pedestrian safety lead the discussion as David Brown and Paul Murrell examine visibility, weight and road design. They explore AI-powered mapping, the shrinking technology gap between prestige and mainstream cars, Ferrari’s bespoke engineering and image-driven design from…
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Toll reform, EV road wear, car-name chaos, MG's HS
David Brown and Paul Murrell examine Sydney toll reform which raises bigger questions about transport planning and contract design, and whether heavier EVs really damage roads. They consider Smart's street-art launch for its new electric two-seater, BMW turning connected dashboards into…
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Porsche Pivots, Honda’s Tiny EV and Bentley Luxury
Short description David Brown and Paul Murrell explore the forces reshaping the automotive world, from Porsche’s restructuring and Honda’s compact electric city car to Hyundai’s 40-year journey in Australia. They celebrate engineering heritage, review the Bentley Continental GTC plug-in hybrid…
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Victoria’s Transport Big Build, VW Edition, MG EV6
Short description Victoria’s transport infrastructure dominates this episode as David Brown and Brian Smith examine the politics, planning and economics behind major projects, including the Suburban Rail Loop and Infrastructure Australia. They also discuss Volkswagen’s evolving people mover…
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VW’s ups and downs; luxury EVs; Hyundai Ioniq 6 N
Short description David Brown and Paul Murrell examine the pressures reshaping the automotive industry, from Volkswagen’s restructuring and the rise of Chinese manufacturers to BMW’s expanding EV line-up and Mercedes-Maybach’s new approach to luxury. The program also explores transport branding,...
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BYD refunds, affordable EVs, future of mobility
David Brown and Paul Murrell unpack BYD’s full refund offer after a model-year mix-up, assess new budget EVs from Geely, and examine why plug-in hybrid utes could be the practical choice for Australian buyers. They also explore Chinese brands’ sales performance, adaptive traffic signal…
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EVs reshape market; Toyota pivots; a rally legend
Australia’s new vehicle market is changing rapidly, with Chinese brands and electrified models reshaping the sales charts while Toyota expands its electrified range. David Brown and Paul Murrell examine the latest market data, discuss the future of hybrids and EVs, explore the world of exclusive...
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Brand identity, Route 66 at 100, are EVs too fast?
Short description David Brown and Paul Murrell explore how carmakers balance shared engineering with distinctive brand identity, from Stellantis to Mercedes-Benz’s new retail approach. They discuss logistics, motoring journalism, iconic vehicle-inspired wine branding, the centenary of Route 66…
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Transport and schools, AI Traffic Data, Kia EV9
Short Description David Brown and Brian Smith examine the growing number of automotive brands entering Australia and the challenges of building identity in a crowded market. They discuss how school planning can unintentionally create transport problems, reflect on Sydney’s transformation through...
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Ban Kerb Parking? EV Price Cuts, X-Trail, Triton
David Brown and Brian Smith examine the future of Kerb-side parking, arguing for better management rather than simplistic anti-car policies. They discuss Hyundai’s EV price cuts, the growing pressure from Chinese brands, whether sedans can challenge SUVs again, and concerns about EV repair…
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Parking Policy, Warranty Risks, Reinventing Buses
A wide-ranging edition of Overdrive examines how transport policy, motoring costs and changing consumer behaviour are reshaping Australian mobility. David Brown and Paul Murrell debate apartment parking mandates, shifting new-car pricing, church-based car sharing and whether high-speed buses…
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Young Drivers training, EV trends, BMW i4, Jimny
Short Description David Brown and Paul Murrell discuss a different approach to driver education, arguing that financial incentives can encourage safer, smoother driving habits. They examine shifting EV sales trends, BMW’s electric success, the preservation of grand railway stations, and the...
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Driving Thrills, EV Mining Trucks, Vitara Hybrid
Driving Thrills, EV Mining Trucks, Vitara Hybrid Short Description David Brown and Paul Murrell explore whether driving enjoyment can be scientifically measured, examine the rapid electrification of heavy mining equipment, critique the design direction of new Ferrari and Mercedes-AMG EVs, and...
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AI cars, classic shooting brakes likened to Kia K4
Overdrive: AI cars, revived names and the Kia K4 shooting brake twist AI cars, classic shooting brakes likened to Kia K4 Short Description This episode explores how Chinese manufacturers are reshaping the car industry through AI, digital architecture and global strategy. There’s debate over...
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EV surge, transport rethink, return of the 2CV
Australia’s EV market is shifting rapidly, with Chinese brands now dominating sales and Korean makers strengthening their position through disciplined rollouts. David Brown and Paul Murrell examine how pricing, supply and consumer confidence are reshaping the industry, while also debating...
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F1, reduced attention span, Jeep Wrangler Rubicon
Overdrive: F1 tech, attention drift and the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon Mercedes starts the 2026 Formula One season with a one-two in Melbourne, prompting a broader discussion about race-car complexity, driver workload and visibility. David Brown and Paul Murrell also cover cars on screen, faster EV...
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AI in cars, CES Innovations & the Soul of Driving
Overdrive: From Smart Crossings to Smarter Cars — AI, CES Innovations and the Soul of Driving Short Summary In this episode of Overdrive, David Brown and Paul Murrell explore how artificial intelligence is changing pedestrian safety, urban mobility, and vehicle technologies. From AI-powered...
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Fuel security, fast rail; living with a Deepal E07
Overdrive: Fuel security, fast rail reality and living with the Deepal E07 Fuel security, fast rail; living with a Deepal E07 Short description David Brown and Paul Murrell cut through the headlines and hype, starting with fuel security risks as Middle East tensions unsettle oil markets and…
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NVES results, Local Car Testing, Unexpected MG Ute
Description This week on Overdrive, David Brown and Paul Murrell unpack the first results from Australia’s New Vehicle Efficiency Standard and what they really mean for car makers and buyers. They examine winners, losers and the politics of emissions averaging. Subaru returns to frontline...
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Luxury Brands, Mini Anniversary, Kona Electric
Overdrive: Luxury badges, cheap fares, Bathurst Minis and Kona EV David Brown and Paul Murrell look at BMW turning Alpina into its own luxury badge, Tesla shifting Full Self-Driving to subscription, and what Queensland's 50 cent fares really buy in patronage and politics. They celebrate Mini's...
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In-Car Audio, OTA Updates and Bad Traffic Data
This week on Overdrive, David Brown and Paul Murrell (SeniorDriver.au) dig into what’s changing inside cars and on our roads — from the future of in-car radio and voice control to over-the-air updates that add features after purchase. They also unpack NZ’s roadside drug testing rollout, sidewalk...
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Big Touchscreens Are Dangerous – Bring Back Buttons
A recent article in The Conversation on-line newsletter articles written by professional researchers titled “Yes, those big touchscreens in cars are dangerous and buttons are coming back” highlights a growing recognition that technology often moves faster than our ability to use it safely. To add...
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Why We Must Rethink How We Design Cities - what do people actually need?
In this episode of Overdrive, host David Brown speaks with Ken Dobinson — a 95-year-old former transport leader with a career spanning government, consultancy, and groundbreaking urban planning. With a sharp mind and an unwavering commitment to public value, Ken unpacks why our cities still miss...
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Why Headlight Tech, Interface Design and EV Range Still Matter
In this episode of Overdrive, David Brown and Paul Murrell discuss the latest in headlight testing technology at Mercedes-Benz, the real-world usability of driver aids and infotainment systems, and the challenges of understanding electric vehicle range. Plus, a look at GWM’s new Tank 500 plug-in...
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Toyota Prado; Xpeng enduro; classic car culture
News XPeng P7 endurance run: A 3961km record sparks scepticism about real-world EV performance and battery stress. Costco–Leapmotor partnership: Bulk-store marketing and discounts reflect new retail strategies in car sales. Skoda colouring-in promotion: A quirky family campaign illustrates the…
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Road charges, EV hype & Camry tested
• Road user charges: NSW confirms plans to introduce a distance-based road user charge • EV range claims: Independent testing shows significant gaps between advertised and real-world EV ranges • Zeekr 7X launch: Chinese brand Zeekr announces its 7X SUV for Australia, promising fast charging and...
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Chinese Cars Rise, Tesla Liability, Leapmotor C10
Car sales: July Australian new car sales rose 2.9%, with Chinese brands climbing Tesla case: A US jury held Tesla partly liable for a fatal crash Idle Off program: Student-led action cut engine idling outside schools by up to 40% Mercedes program: Manufaktur Exclusive lets buyers pay over $24,000...
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From jargon busting to giant utes: EV debuts, SUV culture & Toyota Tundra road test
In this episode of Overdrive, David Brown and Brian Smith dive into the quirks, jargon, and big personalities of the motoring and transport world. We start with a NSW Government report on Sydenham Station’s upgrades—dense with transport-speak but easily translated into plain English. From there,...
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Touchscreens, Utes & EV Slowdown: Transport Trends on Overdrive – 26 July 2025
Welcome to Overdrive, the show that dives into the quirks, questions, and cultural shifts shaping how we move. Host David Brown is joined by Brian Smith, transport planner and original Overdrive contributor, for a jam-packed episode that blends industry news, thoughtful critique, and cheeky...
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OverDrive: Triton Road Test, EV Fire Myths, AI Cars, E-Scooter Ban & The Legend of Bizzarrini
Overdrive – Cars, Transport & Culture Originally broadcast: 14 June 2025 Host: David Brown | Guest: Paul Murrell (SeniorDriverAus.com) In this episode of Overdrive, we explore the intersection of technology, culture, and controversy in the transport world. From electric vehicle supply chains to...
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OverDrive – EV Growth, Hyundai IONIQ 9, Alfa Junior, Driver AI, Santa Fe
• Hyundai IONIQ 9 Launch: Hyundai debuts its new IONIQ 9 electric SUV, positioning it as a premium, spacious, tech-rich executive vehicle. • Alfa Romeo Junior: Alfa Romeo’s new compact SUV, the Junior, brings hybrid and electric options to Australia • HERE-SBD EV Infrastructure Report: A report...
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Overdrive: EV sales up, New radar tech, Haval GT PHEV road test, e-scooters/bikes for the disabled
• Australian auto sales rose in June, but year-to-date totals remain down, with plug-in and hybrid growth outpacing traditional segments. • Chinese carmakers surge in the UK, disrupting the market with value-packed electric offerings as legacy brands falter. • China’s EV sector faces major...
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OverDrive: Mahindra’s little SUV; New emissions laws; tyre reuse; AM radio might be compulsory in US
1. NVES Launch: Australia’s New Vehicle Efficiency Standard begins 2. FCAI Response: The FCAI focuses too narrowly on EVs, ignoring affordable, efficient petrol and hybrid options. 3. Tyre Recycling Report: highlighting a gap between recovery and sustainability. 4. European SDV Initiative: Eleven...
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Overdrive: Dodgy Road Safety Stats; Jaecoo J7; New Chinese Batteries; Plug-In Ute goes off-road
China’s Sodium-Ion Scooter Revolution Summary: China is rapidly adopting sodium-ion batteries in its electric scooter market, led by companies like Yadea. These cheaper and safer alternatives to lithium are ideal for short-range urban transport and could eventually disrupt global battery supply...
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Overdrive: Tesla’s Turbulence, New RAV4 and Forester Revealed, and a Land Speed Legacy
Overdrive: Tesla Backlash, Smarter Road Safety, and a Fresh Crop of SUVs This week on Overdrive, the show where cars and transport meet culture, David Brown and Paul Murrell cover a wide sweep of industry news, innovation, and history. Real-Time Safety Data A new agreement between Euro NCAP and…
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Overdrive: RIP Kwik Fit founder, EVs, Hydrogen Trucks, and costly repairs for Tesla Cybertruck
Overdrive: From Kwik Fit to Cybertruck Fix – The Shifting World of Cars and Transport In this episode of Overdrive, we dive into the evolving world of vehicles, transport systems, and the culture that surrounds them. From industry pioneers to futuristic machines, David Brown and Paul Morrell…
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Liz Ampt and Prof David Hensher on Behaviour change
Podcast: Behaviour Change in Transport – Conversations with Liz Ampt and Professor David Hensher Hosted by David Brown In this two-part episode, we explore the critical but often overlooked question in transport planning: not just what people do, but why they do it. Our guests, Dr Liz Ampt and...
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Overdrive: Emissions, Safety, Electric Dreams – and the Disappearing Expertise
In this episode of Overdrive – Cars, Transport, Culture, David Brown is joined once again by motoring expert Paul Murrell from SeniorDriverAus.com to unpack the latest developments from the world of transport and automotive innovation. News Highlights: Autonomous Vehicle Emissions – An MIT study...
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Overdrive: Tesla’s Troubles, Touchscreen Turmoil, and the Curious Case of Royal Warrants
Overdrive: Tesla’s Troubles, Touchscreen Backlash & Royal Recognition In this episode of Overdrive, David Brown and Paul Murrell unpack a mix of major shifts and motoring curiosities. From plummeting Tesla sales and BYD’s meteoric rise, to Australia's evolving road rules and the debate over...
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Time to Lead on Work-from-Home Policies, Not Follow
Is the recent strident opposition to working from home driven by real performance data — or by outdated management egos? As some organisations begin to reverse their confrontational stance on remote work, the question remains: should we sit back and see what happens, or step up and lead by...
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Overdrive: What lidar can’t see; Breakdown rates for ICEs and EVs;Measuring car sustainability
Summary: In this episode of Overdrive, we delve into the evolving world of motoring and mobility—from high-tech pedestrian detection fabrics to nostalgic reflections on motoring larrikins. David Brown and Paul Murrell critique inconsistencies in safety tech, vehicle naming confusion, and the…
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Overdrive: What Lidar can’t see; Breakdowns - ICEs vs EVs; Mazda CX-30; Larrikins in motorsport
MG Response A listener wondered if his car had been upgraded with the latest software when he found the very performance disappointing. The response from MG is as follows The background to car badges If ever we needed proof that all is not always as it seems, the Porsche badge is a perfect…
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Overdrive: Everything Electric in transport preview; Genesis GV80; don’t get caught short on a trip
G’Day and welcome to Overdrive, a program that practices what it preaches, most of the time, on the subject of cars and transport. I’m David Brown For more information go to our website, podcast, or social media – just search for Cars, Transport, Culture. Once again, I am joined by the tireless...
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Overdrive: Elon Musk was wrong; Cybertruck under fire; Genesis GV70; Cupholders; Reverse Parking
G’Day and welcome to Overdrive, a program that ponders the philosophical and practical aspects of motoring and transport. I’m David Brown For more information go to our website, podcast, or social media – just search for Cars, Transport, Culture. Once again, I am joined by the effervescent Paul...
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Overdrive: Superbowl 2025 car ads; Genesis G70; Insuring EVs; Cars that don’t meet new design rules
In the Program • The real costs of car insurance – EV vs PHEV vs ICE • Beware of new cars about to be delisted due to ADR (Australian Design Rules) • Elon Musk Admits He Was Wrong • Problems with the MG Hybrid • We review the car ads that were played in the Superbowl • Road Test of the Genesis…
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Overdrive: Motor and Masterpieces Show; Lagonda love affair; Hyundai Ioniq N; Jeep Rubicon
G’Day and Welcome to Overdrive, a program that ponders the particulars of motoring and transport. I’m David Brown If you want to dive deeper into our thoughts, ideas, and occasional ramblings, you can find us on our website, podcast, or social media – just search for Cars, Transport, Culture.…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Overdrive: Cars, Transport and Culture.A weekly radio program featuring motoring & transport news from Australia & around the world, road tests, feature interviews & quirky stories.David Brown is a respected motoring broadcaster heard online and across Australia on commercial, public and community radio.
HOSTED BY
David Brown
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Overdrive have?
Overdrive currently has 500 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Overdrive about?
Overdrive: Cars, Transport and Culture.A weekly radio program featuring motoring & transport news from Australia & around the world, road tests, feature interviews & quirky stories.David Brown is a respected motoring broadcaster heard online and across Australia on commercial, public and community...
How often does Overdrive release new episodes?
Overdrive publishes regularly with 500 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to Overdrive?
You can listen to Overdrive on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Overdrive?
Overdrive is created and hosted by David Brown.
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