The EVs for Everyone Podcast

The Tesla Model S didn’t just make EVs cool, it rewrote the entire rulebook and proved what an electric car could be. In today’s episode, fellow EV nerd, YouTuber, and Ever project engineer Andrew Lambrecht joins me to give the Model S a proper Viking send-off and break down what its evolution means for your EV strategy right now. We talked about why Andrew calls the Model S “the most consequential car of the 2010s,” how it doubled horsepower, shed weight, gained range, cut cost, and turned “software-defined vehicle” into a real thing you can feel behind the wheel. We also get real about which used EVs and model years to avoid, how battery management and cell imbalance show up in the real world, and what not to do when shopping for a used EV. Next up is a close look at the Chevy Bolt and why the new 2027 Bolt is a huge upgrade over an already solid crossover, especially if you care about LFP chemistry, fast charging, and long-term battery health. And finally we wrap with the “Darwinism” of the EV market: the good EVs are still winning, the bad ones are getting left behind and the real opportunity in used EVs. If you’re in auto retail and need to talk about EVs with confidence (not vibes) this episode is for you!_______________________________Watch Andrew's videos on YouTube:Every Tesla Model S Year Compared (2012 to 2026)We Compared The Old Bolt To The New One — Here's The VerdictConnect with Andrew on LinkedIn_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Chinese EVs are about to give Canadian car buyers something they haven’t seen in years: real price pressure and brand new choices. In today’s episode, David Kennedy, Toronto Bureau Chief at Automotive News is here to talk about the latest developments surrounding Canada’s Chinese EV quota, why Tesla grabbed so much of the first wave, and how BYD, Chery, and Geely are all positioning themselves to enter the market. You’ll hear the full backstory on tariffs, the trade-offs Canada made to protect canola and open Chinese markets, and why Europe’s EV import experience may be a warning sign. David also explains what’s really happening on the ground with Canadian certification, dealer networks, and the push for Chinese automakers to build assembly plants in Canada to bypass quotas altogether. If you work in the auto industry and you’re still a bit fuzzy on how Chinese EVs, quotas, and cross-border politics collide, you can’t afford to sit this one out. Hit play and stay til the end!_______________________________Read David's full article in Automotive News here: Canada clears way for another 24,500 China-made EVs_______________________________Connect with David on LinkedIn_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

For years, everyone obsessed over range anxiety. But here in 2026, the real story (and the real money) is in battery health. In today’s episode, Brett Lippel, CEO North America at AVILOO, joins me to talk about the first truly independent Certified EV Battery Report (brand new this month) and what it means for dealers, auctions, and EV shoppers. We get into how AVILOO became the “Carfax of EVs” in Europe, why battery health is now the make or break metric in used EV remarketing, and how a 3 minute OBD flash test can add $500–$1,000 per unit while boosting CSI. Brett and I also talked about which use cases are the most grueling on batteries (hello, rentals and leases), why most fears about EV battery life are completely outdated, and how dealers can turn free battery checks into a service drive magnet. If you care about turning used EVs from “risky” to a serious profit center, this episode’s for you!_______________________________🔗 Want the full story in data form? We pulled the highlights, but you’ll want the details:The AVILOO Certified EV Battery Report– the world's largest independent study of battery health in used electric vehicles.Download the full report hereThis edition analyzes over 500,000 individual, independent tests carried out on used EVs between 2022 and 2026, covering 20 popular EV models. It draws on a subset of AVILOO's broader diagnostic database, which now spans more than 1 million independent tests worldwide across North and South America, Europe, Australia and Asia.The AVILOO Certified EV Battery Report is built on data from used electric vehicles tested via its independent AVILOO FLASH Test.For each model, AVILOO calculates the median State of Health at three mileage milestones – 31,069 miles, 62,137 miles and 93,206 miles – along with the range expected to cover 99% of vehicles at each point.Download the full report here_______________________________This episode is sponsored by AVILOO. AVILOO transforms battery data into a sound basis for decision-making and reveals what others can only estimate. The only independent EV battery quick test on the market, AI-powered and technologically unmatched. With the AVILOO independent battery certificate, you receive clear data for pricing, customer service, and planning in just three minutes. Learn more at https://aviloo.com/en/aviloo-business________________________________Connect with Brett on LinkedIn________________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Auto financing trends just changed (again) and if you’re still selling based on last year’s playbook, you’re behind. In today’s episode, Melinda Zabritski, Head of Automotive Financial Insights at Experian Automotive is back on the show to unpack the Q2 2026 State of the Automotive Finance Market Report and translate it into moves you can make on the showroom floor and in your used car lot.We get into why average used payments just hit a record $542, whether the “starter car” is really dead, and how lenders are rethinking risk as buyers stretch further back in model years while loan terms blow past 73 months. Melinda also explains what’s really happening with delinquencies and repos across prime, near-prime, and subprime, which segments are holding up, and where dealers should be cautious.Then we jump to the electrified side of the house: the collapse in EV lease share post-tax credits, why 2026 is shaping up to be the year of the hybrid, and how hybrids have suddenly become the payment friendly hero with lower monthly notes than comparable ICE vehicles.We also break down the surprising profile of today’s used EV buyer, why credit scores are rising, how Tesla Model Y off-lease volume is shaping the market, and what an $821 average new EV payment means for mainstream adoption. If you’re in charge of making inventory or finance decisions, this episode is your fast track to seeing where the money is flowing, where the risk is hiding, and how to position your store for the next wave of EVs, hybrids, and used inventory.____________________________________🔗 Want the full story in data form? We pulled the highlights, but you’ll want the details:The Experian Automotive State of the Automotive Finance Market Report for Q2 2026This quarter’s report highlights several key trends shaping the automotive finance landscape:16.8% Hybrid share of new vehicle financing (up from 12.99% YOY)$83/month average savings from auto loan refinancing.2% increase in outstanding automotive loan balances YOY.1 in 3 vehicle loans now exceed 72 months in length.Used vehicle financing share increased while overall financing volumes declined YOY.Download it here_______________________________Check out Experian's EV Resource Page for all things electric vehicle data_______________________________This episode is sponsored by Experian. Experian is a global data and technology company, powering opportunities for people and businesses around the world. Experian helps to redefine lending practices, uncover and prevent fraud, simplify healthcare, deliver digital marketing solutions, and gain deeper insights into the automotive market, all using their unique combination of data, analytics and software. Learn more herehttps://www.experian.com/automotive/ev-resource-center?cmpid=EVS_for_Everyone_______________________________Connect with Melinda on LinkedIn_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Polestar’s U.S. exit just got messier. In today’s episode, Wall Street Journal autos reporter Chris Otts is here to explain why Volvo got the green light from the Trump administration while Polestar was denied, despite sharing ownership, platforms, and even a factory line in Ridgeville, South Carolina. Chris breaks down the national security rules for connected vehicles, the Commerce Department’s concerns over how vehicle data is shared and how a niche EV brand (that actually has a decent product) ended up as the first test case. We also talked about the latest developments in a New Jersey dealer’s lawsuit against Polestar, Polestar’s detailed letter to retailers claiming it was “strung along” by regulators, and what it all means for discounted Polestar inventory and state franchise laws. Finally, Chris also talks about whether this chaotic situation is an early blueprint for how U.S. regulators might treat other Chinese backed automakers and global brands with Chinese stakeholders going forward. Hang on tight… this one’s full of plot twists, question marks and a whole bunch of frustrated Polestar dealers._______________________________Read both articles on WSJ: Polestar Dealer Claims Automaker ‘Orchestrated’ Its U.S. Ban in LawsuitEV-Maker Polestar Says Trump Administration Strung It Along Before U.S. Ban_______________________________Connect with Chris on LinkedIn_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

You heard it here first! Back in January of this year, Mike Murphy, founder and CEO of EVs for All America, said he was cooking up a California incentive for first time EV buyers. Back then, I only half believed him. Fast forward to today: the “MyFirstEV” program is now live in California, with up to $3,500 for new EVs and $1,750 for used, backed by 13 automakers and a coalition that actually got it through Sacramento. In this episode, Mike explains how the program works, why it’s focused on converting first time EV buyers, and how matching funds from automakers turn a state budget line into a market moving lever. We also talked about what other states can steal from this playbook, why “let the free market decide” is a fantasy in a world dominated by China’s EV push, and what’s at stake for American manufacturing and national security. Oh, and yes, Mike also recounts his story of driving a Porsche Cayenne EV 3,000 miles (across the country from New Hampshire to LA) in six days, nearly torching a Bucee’s with a drone, and why today’s public charging landscape feels like a different planet compared to 2023.______________________________Check out the MyFirstEV website here______________________________Automotive News: California’s EV rebate breaks new ground with automaker matching funds, first-time buyer focus______________________________Check out the EVs for All America website and here's all of Mike's EV Roadtrip videos_______________________________Follow Mike on X and LinkedIn_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Humanoid robots are having a moment but the real disruption in automotive right now is a bit more… human. In today’s episode, Jan Griffiths, host of the Automotive Leaders Podcast, is here to talk about obliterating all the early 20th century management thinking, getting rid of all the “approval theater,” and building automotive organizations with real velocity. Jan went from being a CPO at a global Tier One, then walked away from her dream job to launch Gravitas Detroit and a mission driven media company focused on leadership and culture. Jan and I also talked about how legacy silos crush innovation, what Tenneco’s turnaround under Jim Voss teaches us about people first performance, and why servant leadership is now a competitive advantage in a “China speed” world. Jan also gets real about podcasting in this niche and what it looks like to lead from the heart in an industry built on steel, scale, and stubborn habits. This is a slight departure from my normal EV content but I know you’ll love this candid conversation with Jan!_______________________________Subscribe to The Automotive Leaders Podcast on Apple, Spotify, YouTube_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

If you’ve got room in your heart for one more take on the Ford Fathom, make it this one. Nora Eckert, auto correspondent at Reuters joins the show today to help unpack Ford’s big swing at a sub-$30K electric pickup, the Fathom. We get into who this truck is for, what the “Fathom” name says about Ford’s EV reset, and how it stacks up against Slate’s build-it-your-way platform. We talk shifting rules, messy EV economics, and why no electric truck has broken through as a true smash hit yet. And because this is a real-world EV show there’s a ton of twists and turns along the way. Hit play on this episode (right now) if you can’t get enough Fathom coverage!_______________________________Read Nora's full article here on Reuters_______________________________Connect with Nora on LinkedIn_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

“Data-driven summer” is officially here and in today’s episode, Experian Automotive’s Director of Product Marketing, Kirsten Von Busch is back to talk about the Electric Vehicle 2025 Year in Review Report with a sneak peek into 2026. Press play to hear how we really get into the weeds: new EV registrations dropped more than 35% year over year while used EVs jumped over 25% in the same window, tax credit pull-ahead demand reshaped the market, and the used side might actually be the real EV story of the year. Then we get into the Model Leaderboard with Tesla’s sustained dominance in both new and used, Chevy’s one-two punch with Equinox and Bolt, the Nissan Leaf’s staying power as the perennial used EV workhorse, as well as Ford’s puzzling absence from the used top five. Kirsten also spotlights the fastest-growing EV DMAs beyond the usual suspects, from Naples, FL to Charlotte, NC, and explains how lifestyle segments like “brand loyalists” and “quality-first” buyers are reshaping automaker and dealer strategy. If you want to understand where EV demand is really moving, how hybrids fit into the electrified mix, and which metrics you should be obsessing over heading into the fall season, this is a “data-driven summer” must-have._______________________________🔗 Want the full story in data form? We pulled the highlights, but you’ll want the details:Experian Automotive's Electric Vehicle 2025 Year in Review Report Year-over-year changes in the New, Retail and Individual MarketKey Market Highlights:New retail individual EV registrations fell 35.9% year-over-yearUsed retail individual EV registrations grew 25.4% from a year agoTesla made up the top three models of the used individual registrations last year, with the Model 3 coming in at 27.2%, Model Y at 21.7%, and Model S (6.6%). The Chevrolet Bolt EV followed at 4.8% and the Nissan Leaf was at 4%.Download it here______________________________Listen to the "Data Driven Summer" Playlist on Spotify!______________________________Check out Experian's EV Resource Page for all things electric vehicle data_______________________________This episode is sponsored by Experian. Experian is a global data and technology company, powering opportunities for people and businesses around the world. Experian helps to redefine lending practices, uncover and prevent fraud, simplify healthcare, deliver digital marketing solutions, and gain deeper insights into the automotive market, all using their unique combination of data, analytics and software. Learn more herehttps://www.experian.com/automotive/ev-resource-center?cmpid=EVS_for_Everyone_______________________________Connect with Kirsten on LinkedIn_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Lucid is burning more than a billion dollars a quarter, the Saudi PIF just wrote them another massive check, and bankruptcy rumors are flying. So…is this Lucid’s last real shot? Bloomberg’s Detroit Bureau Chief, David Welch, joins the show today to unpack Lucid’s high-stakes bet on “cheaper” midsize EVs, the Cosmos SUV, and a new CPO play that’s meant to move metal and buy time. David also takes a look at the bigger picture: why the auto industry in 2026 feels a lot like 2005, how policy whiplash and politics are reshaping EV adoption, and why pure play EV strategies are colliding with consumer realities. And finally, David lays out what **not** to do when you’re building an EV company, why hybrids suddenly look genius, and so much more. Don’t miss this quick hit loaded with insights!_______________________________Check out David's full article here on Bloomberg_______________________________Connect with David on LinkedIn_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

If you think EVs are too expensive, too complex, or too niche, Kia’s all-new 2027 EV3 is here to prove you wrong. James Bell, Head of Corporate Communications and PR at Kia America, is back on the show to talk about how Kia used its FIFA partnership to turn EV9s and Tellurides into rolling World Cup brand activations—and to dig into the all-new EV3. James talks about why Kia is doubling down on EVs while other automakers are pulling back, how the EV3 riffs on the EV9's design in a smaller, more affordable package, and why a 400-volt system is a smart trade-off for cost-conscious, real-world drivers who mainly charge on Level 2. And finally, we explored the future of vehicle-to-home and vehicle-to-grid charging—from Kia’s solar-powered, bidirectional city of Menifee in California to states like Maryland testing programs that let EV owners sell power back to the grid. And be sure to stay until the end for EV3 timing intel. When will the EV3 hit dealer lots? Listen to find out!_______________________________Check out more photos of the EV3 at kia.com_______________________________Connect with James on LinkedIn_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Molly Boigon, Technology and Innovation Reporter at Automotive News is back on the show today to talk about how AI companies are hoarding DRAM memory chips, leaving automakers paying 450% markups and rethinking what “standard” even means on software defined vehicles (SDVs). Then we swerve into Polestar’s mess in the U.S., where 32 dealers face being downgraded to service points thanks to a Commerce Department ruling that effectively walls off China linked connected vehicles for the 2027 model year. With Europe being Polestar’s growth engine, Canada hanging on as a smaller player, and other automakers with China ties squinting at the same broad rule language, this episode unpacks how geopolitics, national security, and SDV strategy all collide; before ending on an unofficial “Jalen Brunson Statue of Liberty Knicks tee” that proves AI may own the chips, but humans still own the hustle._______________________________Check out Molly's full article in Automotive News_______________________________Connect with Molly on LinkedIn________________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

John Voelcker, Contributing Editor at Car and Driver Magazine says today’s auto industry feels like “juggling chainsaws,” and that’s exactly the energy we’re bringing to this episode. We talked about why a “much smaller” U.S. auto market by 2040 might be overhyped, how $25-30K EVs could blow the doors open on adoption, and why used cars are becoming the real power center of the market. John also **fully explains** the Polestar U.S. ban and what Chinese automakers are really playing for after their big CES flex. Then we pivot to America’s favorite paradox: massive six-figure pickups and the rising demand for smaller trucks like Ford’s Maverick and Slate’s $25K EV. If you care about where the auto industry is headed next, this one’s a full masterclass with a side of snark._______________________________CNBC: A ‘perfect storm’ points to a much smaller U.S. auto market by 2040Automotive News: Polestar dealers ‘devastated’ as Trump administration forces brand out of U.S. over Chinese techWSJ: Automakers Built Ever-Larger Trucks. Can Cheap, Small Pickups Make a Comeback?_______________________________Connect with John on LinkedInCheck out Tempting Fate Tours on YouTube and Instagram_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Kirsten Von Busch, Director of Product Marketing at Experian Automotive brings the receipts from Experian's Automotive Consumer Trends Report (Q1 2026) on what’s really happening in the SUV market. Spoiler alert: your gut and the data are not on the same page. We reveal why electrified SUVs now command 27.68% of new retail share, how the Tesla Model Y is absolutely steamrolling the BEV SUV competition with a 43% share, and why hybrids are still having their moment while everyone argues about that “10% BEV market share” headline. Then we jump to used: Jeep emerges as the market share leader in pre-owned SUVs, families over-index on used instead of new despite all the shiny “family SUV” ads, and Kirsten guides us through a case study that proves how lazy demographic assumptions will cost you real money. If you care about inventory mix, marketing strategy, or not getting blindsided by the next wave of retailing trends, this is the episode you actually need to hear before you greenlight your next campaign._______________________________🔗 Want the full story in data form? We pulled the highlights, but you’ll want the details:Experian's Automotive Consumer Trends Report for Q1 2026.SUVs Continue to Dominate the U.S. Auto Market in 2026Key Market Highlights:117 million SUVs are currently in operation across the U.S., representing 42.2% of all vehicles on the road.SUVs captured 63.45% of new retail registrations over the last 12 months, strengthening their position as the largest vehicle segment.More than 7.8 million new SUVs and 14.4 million used SUVs were registered during the period.Download it here________________________________Learn more about Experian's AutoCheck Vehicle History Reports. Unlock exclusive vehicle insights, attract qualified buyers, and accelerate sales with the only VHR trusted across top shopping sites.________________________________Check out Experian's EV Resource Page for all things electric vehicle data_______________________________This episode is sponsored by Experian. Experian is a global data and technology company, powering opportunities for people and businesses around the world. Experian helps to redefine lending practices, uncover and prevent fraud, simplify healthcare, deliver digital marketing solutions, and gain deeper insights into the automotive market, all using their unique combination of data, analytics and software. Learn more herehttps://www.experian.com/automotive/ev-resource-center?cmpid=EVS_for_Everyone_______________________________Connect with Kirsten on LinkedIn_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

In this final episode of "Live from AutoTech Detroit," Gulnaaz Afzal, Senior Autonomy Systems Integration Engineer at Rivian, joined me to talk about what it really takes to get from cool AV demos to safe, scalable, production-ready autonomy. While playing Pong on the world’s smallest Atari (yes, really), Gulnaaz explains why reliability beats raw capability, why “production ready” is usually misunderstood, and how silent sensor degradation can turn into a six‑month forensic nightmare if you’re not paying attention. Gulnaaz also explains why higher levels of autonomy does not equal “I get to scroll my phone now,” how true production readiness means designing for aging sensors, messy environments, and constant software updates, why the last 10% is less about flashy AI and more about catching subtle failures early. If you care about ADAS, autonomy levels, fleet uptime, and honest storytelling about where the autonomous vehicle industry actually is, this one’s a three-course meal. Don’t miss it!_______________________________Watch on YouTube: "Playing Pong on the World's Smallest Atari"_______________________________Connect with Gulnaaz on LinkedIn_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Jason Marks, CEO of Telo Trucks, joins the show to unpack why the MT1 is essentially a Toyota Tacoma in a Mini Cooper footprint and why that matters for cities, fleets, and the future of EV pickups. We get into the real pain points of driving and parking trucks in dense urban cores, how Japanese Kei trucks inspired Telo’s size, and why half of their paid reservations are from commercial customers who are desperate for something smaller, safer, and smarter. Jason also explains how starting from a blank sheet of paper, plus years in automotive safety and his co‑founder’s battery chops, led to a physics-first approach: engineering a 5‑star crash structure in just 14 inches of front crush, then backing into the entire vehicle layout. He also reveals how feedback from his 5,000+ Discord community pushed Telo to an 800‑volt-capable split pack, aiming to take full advantage of high‑power DC fast chargers. Then, we close with his spiciest take on what’s fundamentally broken about today’s full-size EV pickups: the runaway weight spiral that’s killing efficiency, jacking up costs, and eroding America’s global competitiveness. Don’t sleep on this episode!_______________________________Learn more about Telo Trucks_______________________________Connect with Jason on LinkedIn_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

We accidentally got our schedules crossed… and ended up with one of the spiciest short episodes of the season. Recorded live on the expo floor at AutoTech Detroit, this rapid-fire convo with Steve Bell, Chief Analyst Automotive Connectivity at Omdia is basically a masterclass crammed into a coffee break. In roughly 8 minutes, Steve explains why working in the auto industry in 2026 feels a lot like being there in 1908, how the hardware game is rapidly becoming a software game, and why EVs and first-principles engineering have completely blown up the old rulebook. He breaks down the ticking time bomb of software “veneers” on legacy vehicle architectures and what happens when cellular networks sunset while hundreds of millions of cars still depend on over-the-air (OTA) updates. Steve also lays out how this shift from hardware to software is set to reshape the industrial economy for the next 50 years. It’s punchy, it’s nerdy, and it’s a wake-up call. Perfect if you want big picture clarity on where automotive is headed and you only have a few minutes to listen!_______________________________This episode is sponsored by AutoTech by Informa. AutoTech is the annual gathering point for more than 3,000 automotive industry leaders who come together for three days of immersive B2B networking, meaningful connections, and high-impact discussions. Guided by an Industry Advisory Board, the program features carefully curated sessions that tackle real-world challenges and spark breakthrough innovation. Dedicated to advancing the AutoTech ecosystem, the event also offers exclusive matchmaking services and dynamic exhibitions and showcases, giving attendees direct access to the latest cutting-edge technologies and solutions. Learn more at autotechevents.com_______________________________Connect with Steve Bell on LinkedIn_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

The EV market isn’t collapsing, it’s recalibrating. In this episode, I’m live at AutoTech Detroit while Lindsay VanHulle, Deputy Editor at Automotive News, calls in remotely to break down why this so-called "EV retreat" is actually a strategic pivot. Lindsay digs into how the end of the $7,500 tax credit scrambled U.S. EV demand, why automakers are reshuffling their lineups instead of abandoning EVs, and how Ford and GM are using profitable trucks and SUVs to bankroll an electric future. You’ll also hear how hybrids and more affordable midsize EVs are becoming the real volume play, why Toyota’s “slow and steady” approach suddenly looks (good?), and what the next wave of EVs could bring with better batteries, lower costs, and cars actually built for how people drive in the real world. Hit play if you want the real story on where EVs go next, beyond the headlines and comment-section hot takes._______________________________Read Lindsay's full article in Automotive News: Why some automakers are launching new EVs in 2026 as others pull back_______________________________Connect with Lindsay on LinkedIn_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Heated seat subscriptions (aka “toasty buns”), the Little Tikes EV charging station and a Cary Grant–level Bear photoshoot? Yes, this episode covers ALL the important topics in automotive. Recorded live at AutoTech Detroit, Edward Wilford, Senior Research Director at Omdia Automotive is my guest today to talk about the leap from software defined vehicles (SDV) to AI-defined vehicles (AIDV), and why some automakers are sprinting while others are still tying their shoes. You’ll hear who’s winning at SDV and AIDV and why Mercedes-Benz just snagged AI Automaker of the Year, a clear, human explanation of SDV vs AIDV, and the business logic behind subscriptions from seat heaters to features you didn’t know you’d pay for. Edward also explains how AI can manage range, charging, and comfort based on your real-life habits, why mapping companies may become the most powerful players you never see on the window sticker, and how automakers are split between “everything-in-the-car OS” and bring-your-own-smartphone minimalism. Press play if you’re wondering where the brains of your next car are headed, and who actually makes money on this shi---- shift. Don’t miss the video for this one, linked below!_______________________________YouTube video for this episode: "Rapid Fire Questions with Edward"_______________________________Automotive News Europe: Automakers face unbridgeable gap as AI-defined vehicles expose software readiness divide_______________________________This episode is sponsored by AutoTech by Informa. AutoTech is the annual gathering point for more than 3,000 automotive industry leaders who come together for three days of immersive B2B networking, meaningful connections, and high-impact discussions. Guided by an Industry Advisory Board, the program features carefully curated sessions that tackle real-world challenges and spark breakthrough innovation. Dedicated to advancing the AutoTech ecosystem, the event also offers exclusive matchmaking services and dynamic exhibitions and showcases, giving attendees direct access to the latest cutting-edge technologies and solutions. Learn more at autotechevents.com_______________________________Connect with Edward on LinkedIn________________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

What’s worse: hitting a speed bump with a full cup of coffee… or signing up for a $1,000/month car payment? Both are bad, but that $1K car note stings a whole lot more. Good thing we’ve got Melinda Zabritski, Head of Automotive Financial Insights at Experian Automotive, back on the show today to help us make sense of it all. Maybe not the coffee part but definitely the finance part! In this episode, Melinda and I break down Experian's latest State of the Automotive Finance Market report for Q1 2026. We get into why nearly 1 in 5 new vehicle loans now come with a $1,000+ monthly payment, and why 74% of those big payments aren’t for luxury badges but for CUVs, SUVs, and especially pickup trucks. We talk about how over a third of new loans now stretch past six years and what that does to your equity when you go back to the dealership, plus how average loan amounts have climbed more than $2,150 year over year and how destination fees and bigger vehicles have pushed payments higher. Then we run an EV vs. hybrid reality check and dig into why EV financing dropped from nearly 11% to just over 6% of new vehicle financing, how tax credits fueled the EV surge and what happened when that boost faded, why hybrids are on fire while BEVs decelerate, and why non-luxury EVs can still deliver some of the lowest monthly payments on the market.______________________________________🔗 Want the full story in data form? We pulled the highlights, but you’ll want the details:Experian's State of the Automotive Finance Market Report: Q1 2026Experian Automotive's exclusive quarterly report on the latest trends and analysis of the U.S. automotive finance market, presented by Melinda Zabritski, Head of Automotive Financial Insights at Experian.This quarter’s report highlights several key trends shaping the automotive finance landscape:Used financing share increased while overall volumes declined.Growth shifted toward non-prime segments.Banks and finance companies continued gaining share.Loan amounts, payments, and terms increased.Leasing declined year-over-year.Refinance activity grew, with average monthly savings.Delinquencies remained elevated.Download here_______________________________Check out Experian's EV Resource Page for all things electric vehicle data_______________________________This episode is sponsored by Experian. Experian is a global data and technology company, powering opportunities for people and businesses around the world. Experian helps to redefine lending practices, uncover and prevent fraud, simplify healthcare, deliver digital marketing solutions, and gain deeper insights into the automotive market, all using their unique combination of data, analytics and software. Learn more herehttps://www.experian.com/automotive/ev-resource-center?cmpid=EVS_for_Everyone_______________________________Connect with Melinda on LinkedIn_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

What do a Jenga tower, seamless tolling, and a sub 5-second 0–60 Volvo have in common? Apparently…a lot. In this episode, I sat down with Jim Nichols, VP, Head of Product Technology and Consumer Offer at Volvo Cars, live from AutoTech for a fast-paced convo that stacks real world insights you won’t hear anywhere else. You’ll hear, “Jenga with Jim:” a rapid-fire warmup game where we find out his first car, his favorite Volvo, and the best career advice he’s ever gotten, why the new Volvo EX60 is “a fantastic vehicle that happens to be an EV” and how it’s lining up against the BMW iX3 and Tesla Model Y. We also talked about how Volvo is using software to shave charging time from ~18 minutes down to 16 minutes (10–80% SOC) without changing the hardware, the story behind the discontinuation of the EX30 in the U.S. and a sneak peek at Tollsy; the tolling solution that ditches windshield transmitters, taps into the car’s telematics, and somehow makes tolling agencies, automakers, and drivers all happy at the same time. Hit play and find out why the EX60 might be Volvo’s most impressive flex yet!_______________________________Watch the "Jenga with Jim" segment on YouTube_______________________________Connect with Jim on LinkedIn_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/Subscribe on YouTube:www.youtube.com/@ElenaCiccotelli_EV4E________________________

China is quickly becoming the auto industry’s final boss, and Michael Dunne, CEO of Dunne Insights, is here to explain why everyone else in the world is still trying to play catch up. In this episode, we break down: The Trump-Xi Summit which had a huge red carpet but tiny outcomes for autos, BYD’s global glow‑up: from “cheap and cheerful” to Daniel Craig, a black lab puppy, and God’s Eye ADAS. Even James Bond now drives a BYD. And then we visit the whimsical (and totally fictional) "Joint Venture Land" with Stellantis and Dongfeng. Michael calls it a one-way ticket into oblivion, "sleeping in the same bed, dreaming different dreams." And finally, your brain might explode when you hear this one but: no, you’re not getting a $10K BYD in the U.S. because China wants European style profits, not bargain bin margins. If you think this is just about cheap Chinese EVs, think again. This is a geopolitical street fight and Joint Venture Land might be the scariest theme park of 2026. Don't miss this episode!_______________________________Join me LIVE at AutoTech Detroit on June 3rd and 4th for even more great conversations with the best minds in automotive.Oh, and did I mention I'm bringing EV4E merch?!Go here to register and use code "EVS20" for 20% off your registration at checkout:https://autotechevents.com/home/passes-prices/_______________________________"Everything Is Changing" Denza commercial featuring Daniel Craig________________________________Connect with Michael Dunne on X | LinkedIn | Substack_________________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Is this an EV story, a China story, or an “America forgot how to build affordable cars” story? My guest today, Patrick George, Detroit Bureau Chief at The Wall Street Journal says it’s all of the above. On this episode, Patrick unpacks the latest twists and turns in the EV arms race, the China factor, and why US automakers are stuck selling $70k trucks while BYD is out here dropping tech-packed EVs for the price of a used Corolla. From El Paso, Texas as America’s unofficial Chinese EV showroom to Volkswagen handing its EV homework to Chinese partners, Patrick pulls back the curtain on what's actually happening and why. You’ll hear how Chinese automakers have mastered EVs using the West’s own playbook and then leveled it up, why US policy “whiplash” has automakers whipsawed between EV mandates and gas-powered reality, what everyday buyers really want (hint: not a $50k “rough draft” EV) and why $20k Chinese EVs are the elephant at the border. If you work in auto and think you “kind of” understand what’s happening…you probably don’t. This episode is your wake-up call.___________________________________Read the full WSJ article by Ryan Felton here, "The U.S. Wants to Ban China’s High-Tech Cars, but They’re Already Here in El Paso"https://www.wsj.com/business/autos/chinese-cars-byd-geely-u-s-mexico-be0dea28?st=S1KY5S&reflink=desktopwebshare_permalink_______________________________Connect with Patrick George on LinkedIn_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Car shoppers are now voice‑dictating their way to dealerships at 10pm from the couch. If your AI bouncer is guarding bad data, you’re losing deals before they ever hit your showroom. In this episode, I’m at the Used Car Summit in Miami with Experian Automotive’s Michael Kraut, VP of Advertising Data Solutions and Kirsten Von Busch, Director of Product Marketing to talk about how voice search and AI are now becoming the new “bouncer at the door” for dealers. This time, we dug into: why half-baked inventory listings are a fast track to losing AI‑driven shoppers, how Experian’s new agentic AI, “Vinny,” helps consumers decode vehicle history reports without feeling dumb, whether dealers should optimize for AI answers, SEO, or both and if voice‑first shoppers might actually be better, more informed leads. If AI is the new front door to your dealership then this episode is your reminder: if the data’s wrong, the deal is gone! Also, be sure to listen until the end to hear our "Yes / No paddle game" where Michael and Kirsten answer a set of rapid fire questions that'll make you wanna check your ChatGPT history (like right now)._______________________________This episode is sponsored by Experian. Experian is a global data and technology company, powering opportunities for people and businesses around the world. Experian helps to redefine lending practices, uncover and prevent fraud, simplify healthcare, deliver digital marketing solutions, and gain deeper insights into the automotive market, all using their unique combination of data, analytics and software. Learn more herehttps://www.experian.com/automotive/ev-resource-center?cmpid=EVS_for_Everyone_______________________________Connect with Kirsten on LinkedInConnect with Michael on LinkedIn_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Before you buy a used EV, don’t trust, “it charges fine” as an answer. Scott Lear, President of Battery4Life, joined me in Miami at the Used Car Summit last month to unpack the realities of used EV ownership and why your battery is the single most important part of the deal. Scott explains how Battery4Life flips traditional service contracts on their head with VIN-specific coverage and lifetime protection on both the high-voltage pack and 12V battery. You’ll also hear why battery degradation rarely happens “slowly and gently,” what the infamous Tesla “red screen of death” really means for your wallet, and how Scott’s team uses state-of-health reports and cell balance data to decide which batteries they’ll cover for life. He also shares a simple, practical checklist for anyone considering a used EV, plus a candid story about how a bad Level 2 charger install nearly “blew up” a customer’s car. Whether you’re an auto exec, dealer, or first-time EV shopper, this episode will help you buy smarter, protect your battery, and avoid any surprises down the road!_______________________________This episode is sponsored by Battery4Life (B4L). For the first time in battery retailing, B4L offers automotive dealerships and other organizations the ability to sell a lifetime battery contract to consumers. Coverage is available on Gas, Hybrid and Electric vehicles for life. Dealers: learn more at https://www.1battery4life.com/_______________________________Connect with Scott Lear on LinkedIn or email: [email protected]_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Friend of the show Elizabeth Krear, President & CEO of the Center for Automotive Research (CAR), is back again (for a third time!) to unpack why working in the auto industry in 2026 feels a lot like joining the circus, plus a smorgasbord of other hot topics. In this episode, Elizabeth and I cover how tariffs and a reshuffled USMCA landscape are squeezing margins for automakers, the reality behind why “cars are so expensive now” vs. what prices look like in real 10‑year dollars, the rise of the K‑shaped auto economy (SUVs and trucks for the haves and shrinking options for entry‑level buyers), why hybrids are having a slow‑burn glow‑up while full BEVs settle into a 5–6% groove, and finally, how China’s EV machine and North American policy choices are one big competitive showdown. Plus, Elizabeth previews CAR’s Management Briefing Seminars where the industry will dig deep into affordability, the EV transition, China, supply‑chain resilience, and policy. If you’ve ever wondered how tariffs, geopolitics, and battery materials end up in your monthly payment, this one’s for you._______________________________CAR Management Briefing Seminars | June 15-16, 2026 | American Center for Mobility & Marriot Eagle Crest Resort | Ypsilanti, MIFor over six decades, the Center for Automotive Research (CAR) has hosted the industry’s most essential retreat. In 2026, experience a reimagined, two-day experience where policy, technology, and economic innovation intersect.Learn more here: https://www.cargroup.org/mbs/_______________________________Connect with Elizabeth on LinkedIn_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Three used‑EV pros walk into an industry conference… and immediately start competing on who’s seen the most insane battery quote. In today's episode, live from the Used Car Summit in Miami, we've got a fun episode for you with Chip Geppi, Owner of Hybrid and Electric Car Sales in Nashville, Scott Lear, Founder of Battery4Life, and Gary Pretzfeld Co-Owner of AutoTrust USA in Hollywood, Florida. During this episode you'll hear a range (forgive the pun) of stories starting with a $43,000 Nissan Leaf undercarriage disaster, a flooded Tesla battery pack and a McLaren EV that needed engineers flown in from Europe. We also talked about how customer questions have evolved because range anxiety is out, but battery longevity and reliability are in. Chip explains why EV‑focused dealers talk state‑of‑health, not just EPA range, and how battery warranties can be a sales superpower, boosting used EV sales by ~10% and giving buyers the one thing they actually want, peace of mind. Gary also shares some real world buyer stories featuring a Vermont Tesla owner furious she couldn’t get home, until basic math, freezing temps, and preconditioning explained everything. If you’ve ever wondered what really happens behind the scenes of the used EV market and how much a bad day with a battery can actually cost, this episode is your front‑row seat._______________________________This episode is sponsored by Battery4Life (B4L). For the first time in battery retailing, B4L offers automotive dealerships and other organizations the ability to sell a lifetime battery contract to consumers. Coverage is available on Gas, Hybrid and Electric vehicles for life. Dealers: learn more at https://www.1battery4life.com/_______________________________Connect with Scott Lear on LinkedIn or email: [email protected] with Chip Geppi on LinkedInConnect with Gary Pretzfeld on LinkedIn________________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Live from the Used Car Summit in Miami, Kirsten Von Busch, Director of Product Marketing at Experian Automotive, is back on the show today to unpack what’s really happening on America’s roads (and in consumers’ heads). More specifically, we're taking a close look at how evolving consumer behavior and market trends are influencing new and used vehicle buying in the U.S. with Experian’s Q4 2025 Automotive Consumer Trends Report as our guide. SUVs are still the undisputed heavyweight champions, now grabbing over 60% of new retail sales, while traditional cars quietly lose ground. On the electrification front, the headlines may scream “EV slowdown,” but the data says otherwise: Tesla still ties for fourth overall, and the real surprise hero is the Toyota Camry Hybrid, now the top dog in electrified registrations over the last 12 months. Alternative fuel vehicles have climbed to nearly 39% of new retail registrations, as shoppers juggle gas-price pain, range anxiety, and total cost of ownership. On the marketing side, it’s a generational split-screen: Boomers buying new cars want you in their inbox while Gen Z used-car shoppers live on mobile, online, and new media like voice AI. Kirsten’s message to dealers: “Know your buyer, know what you're selling.” A used EV shopper in LA is not the same as a used truck shopper in Texas. Segment, model, and geography all demand tailored targeting. And last but not least, this episode wraps with an aggressive “Yes, No" paddle game that was interrupted by the conference xylophone and somehow covers if Bear needs a sibling and whether or not millennials over-index for used cars. Don't miss this trends report episode with Experian because this one feels more like a Miami joyride instead of homework._______________________________This episode is sponsored by Experian. Experian is a global data and technology company, powering opportunities for people and businesses around the world. Experian helps to redefine lending practices, uncover and prevent fraud, simplify healthcare, deliver digital marketing solutions, and gain deeper insights into the automotive market, all using their unique combination of data, analytics and software. Learn more herehttps://www.experian.com/automotive/ev-resource-center?cmpid=EVS_for_Everyone_______________________________Here's the link to Experian’s Q4 2025 Automotive Consumer Trends Report_______________________________Connect with Kirsten on LinkedIn_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

If you like your auto news with a side of legal intrigue, this one’s for you. Today, Brian Maas, President of the California New Car Dealers Association (CNCDA) is back on the show *again* to talk lawsuits, EV reversals, and why Scout’s reservation list might be more complicated than it looks. First up, a federal court allows CNCDA’s lawsuit move forward, challenging Scout’s direct-to-consumer reservation model and pushing for sales through franchise dealers instead. Scout’s first vehicles are now pushed to 2028, but tens of thousands of consumers have already put down deposits for vehicles that aren’t here yet and might not be sold the way the law intended. Next, Sony Honda Mobility rethinks its electrification strategy, putting the brakes on the infamous Afeela while CNCDA’s lawsuit is still active. And finally, we discussed how Rivian successfully negotiated with dealers to withdraw opposition in Washington. Brian breaks down why some states let Tesla and Rivian sell directly while others don’t, and why dealers say the 125-year-old franchise system still protects local jobs, service, and competition. Ready for more? Press play for a continuation of all the legal drama in the EV world._______________________________Connect with Brian on LinkedIn__________________________Bear wants you to support his snack addiction, I mean, this show.Shop all merch here!https://evs4everyone-shop.fourthwall.com_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Christian Spencer, Senior Manager of Marketability at Nissan Technical Center North America joins the show today to tell us exactly what happens when you mash up EV-style performance with hybrid convenience. Nissan calls it e‑POWER, and the all-new 2027 Rogue Hybrid is bringing it to U.S. roads later this year. Driven exclusively by dual electric motors (eliminating the need for a transmission) the gasoline engine serves as a generator and provides convenient refueling. Press play on this episode to get the inside scoop on how the Rogue Hybrid delivers instant, shift-free acceleration with no transmission, why the gas engine is basically just the battery’s personal assistant, the quiet, refined, EV-like drive, and how it stacks up against hybrid heavyweights like Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR‑V. If you love new product reveals and the feeling of your hair getting blown back on acceleration, this one’s for you._______________________________What is Nissan e-POWER? While most hybrid-electric vehicles in the U.S. use a parallel hybrid system, Nissan e-POWER is a next-generation series hybrid. That means two electric motors power the wheels directly, delivering instantaneous torque and quick, smooth acceleration. Meanwhile, a gasoline engine serves as a generator for the battery and motors, providing the convenient refueling that customers equate with internal-combustion vehicles. Drivers refuel just like a typical gas-powered car, there is no plug. In city and suburban driving, the gasoline engine runs infrequently, because speeds are lower and battery demand is modest. On highways or under heavy load, the engine runs more often to maintain battery charge and supply sustained electrical power. The lithium-ion battery stores energy captured through regenerative braking and from the engine, which is connected to a generator instead of a transmission. The third-generation hybrid system in the all-new Rogue, tuned for the North American market, can effectively meet the demands of a wide variety of driving environments._______________________________Learn more about Nissan's Third Generation of e-POWER here.https://www.nissan-global.com/EN/INNOVATION/TECHNOLOGY/ARCHIVE/E_POWER_GEN3/_______________________________Shop all EV4E merch here!https://evs4everyone-shop.fourthwall.com_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Working in the auto industry in 2026 is either “a marathon” or “like fracturing a couple ribs” and this episode lives right at that intersection of never ending hustle and pain tolerance. Jimmy Douglas, CEO of Plug, a used EV marketplace built exclusively for electric vehicles and John Possumato CEO of DriveItAway,  join the show today to talk about the coming tidal wave of off‑lease EVs (about 1.1 million over the next three years) and why it's the buying opportunity of the decade. With gas prices going off the rails, consumers are finally doing the math: it’s not just about the monthly car payment, it’s about the monthly fuel bill, and EVs are suddenly looking... good? We unpacked why used EVs are the best arbitrage on the planet: often 40–50% depreciated while barely 10% into their useful life, how flexible leases are pulling people with shaky credit and no down payment into reliable transportation, instead of dumping them into 200,000 mile gas beaters, the huge gap between dealers who actively lean into EVs (28‑day turns, healthy margins, happy customers) and those who get one on trade every few months and let it collect dust while sales staff can’t explain regenerative braking and how OEMs like Tesla and others have built powerful pre‑owned pipelines and reconditioning networks behind the scenes. Bottom line: used EVs aren’t a consolation prize. They’re the cheat code for dealers, for consumers, and for an industry trying to survive the most chaotic, opportunity‑packed decade it’s ever seen.________________________________This episode is sponsored by DriveItAway. If you’re a franchise dealer, you can now launch a profitable (and scalable) micro-lease to own program with zero upfront costs, to transform your unsold inventory into monthly revenue, effortlessly. And if you want to support DriveItAway’s mission directly, check out their stock on the OTC markets, "DWAY." Learn more at driveitway.com/dealers_______________________________Connect with Jimmy on LinkedInConnect with John on LinkedIn________________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Elon Musk has apparently decided that building cars and rockets wasn’t enough, so now he’s launching Terrafab, a trillion‑watt chip factory that has ambitions of powering both Teslas and the galaxy. About 20% of this computing power will stay on Earth for cars, robots, and ground AI, and the other 80% is basically going to outer space. Skepticism levels: very high. Meanwhile, Ford’s BlueOval plant in Kentucky is now getting $2 billion more to pivot to energy storage. GM, LG, are all following suit. U.S. battery demand for storage hits 41% this year (up from 26% two years ago) and global market projected to double+ to $172 billion by 2030. Energy storage really is THAT girl because apparently ChatGPT and friends are really thirsty for electrons. On top of that, Congress is floating a new federal EV fee $250 a year for EVs, $100 for hybrids because EVs aren’t paying gas taxes. How can we go from EV incentives to EV penalties in record time? It's baffling. Then there’s the ongoing robotaxi battle royale. Last week it was announced that Uber is investing $1.2 billion in Rivian for exclusive autonomous R2 robotaxis over five years. It’s autonomy meets distribution, and everyone’s picking a tribe. Who do you think will survive? PS - thank you for being here, it means the world!_______________________________Bear wants you to support his snack addiction, I mean, this show.Shop all merch here!https://evs4everyone-shop.fourthwall.com_______________________________Catch me at The Used Car Summit in Miami on April 14thThe New Used-Car Profit Stack: Retail, Remarketing, and the Next Wave of Inventory Strategy_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Dealer franchise law is front and center in today's episode with Brian Maas, President of the California New Car Dealers Association (CNCDA) where we talked about the latest lawsuits involving Sony Honda's Afeela and VW's Scout Motors, how California’s franchise statutes really work, and why every OEM and dealer should be paying close attention. For example, what’s really at stake if automakers start cherry‑picking which cars go through dealers and which go direct? We also take a slight detour into the wild world of hiring a car‑buying “negotiator” with services like Delivrd. Is it innovation, or just old‑school brokering with better branding and a TikTok following? Brian breaks down where California law draws the line, why disclosure matters, and how dealers can stay on the right side of the rules while still serving their customers. Don't miss Brian's straight talk on the franchise system amid EV shifts and direct-sales experiments. If you're in autos, EVs, or just hate bad car deals, this one's a must-listen.__________________________Connect with Brian on LinkedIn__________________________Bear wants you to support his snack addiction, I mean, this show.Shop all merch here!https://evs4everyone-shop.fourthwall.com__________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Covering the automotive industry these days often feels like trying to hit a moving target blindfolded or playing an endless round of Whack-a-Mole. Yet somehow, amid all the chaos, flip-flopping policies, and doom scrolling, EV owners are happier than they've ever been. Shocked? Yeah, me too. That's why I'm happy to welcome back Brent Gruber, Executive Director of the EV Practice at JD Power, to talk about the 2026 Electric Vehicle Experience (EVX) Ownership Study. He breaks down exactly why satisfaction has hit an all-time high heading into 2026: massive leaps in battery tech, far more accurate range estimates, and finally (yes, finally!) better public charging availability and reliability. We also unpack the satisfaction gap between premium and mass-market EVs, and the eye-popping stat that 96% of current EV owners would happily jump back into another one despite all the noise about slowing sales. Plus, Brent explains how the incoming flood of used and off-lease EVs is about to make electric driving way more affordable.______________________________The Tom Selleck meme mentioned at 13:25_______________________________EV Owner Satisfaction Climbs to New High Amid Sales Slump, JD Power Findshttps://www.jdpower.com/business/press-releases/2026-us-electric-vehicle-experience-evx-ownership-study_______________________________Connect with Brett Gruber on LinkedIn_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Uber’s letting you hail the future: this summer you can book a driverless Zoox in the Uber app in Las Vegas, with LA on deck for next year. Meanwhile, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy is sounding the alarm that winning the autonomous vehicle race is a national security, economic, and safety must win for the U.S. and yes, he’s the same guy from MTV’s The Real World: Boston, 90's (core memory unlocked). On the retail side, WSJ recently reported Volkswagen dealers are suing over a direct‑to‑consumer plan for Scout Motors, prompting guest commentator John Possumato, CEO of DriveItAway to label the strategy as “stupid, stupid, and stupid” and argues that EV makers should lean into dealer networks and flexible leases instead of reinventing the wheel._______________________________Bear wants you to support his snack addiction, I mean, his show.Shop all merch here!https://evs4everyone-shop.fourthwall.com_______________________________WSJ article from Chris Otts: Volkswagen Dealers Revolt Over Plan to Sell a New Brand of SUV Directly to Consumers________________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Grab your calculator, ping your CPA, and maybe get a comfort snack or two because Trump’s new car loan tax break might be less ‘cash in your pocket’ and more ‘political brain fog' with extra paperwork. Chris Otts, Autos Reporter at The Wall Street Journal joined me today to break down the confusing new auto loan deduction, reveals which cars really qualify, and asks the hard question: does this incentive move the needle at all for everyday car buyers? ICYMI: the Trump administration’s new auto loan interest tax deduction is for vehicles assembled in the United States and has a lot of rules around who can actually cash in on it. Press play to hear how we compared this complex and limited new benefit to the now-defunct $7,500 federal EV tax credit, explored which cars actually qualify (and why many affordable models don’t), and walk through a real‑world example showing the deduction is worth roughly $576 in the first year on an average new‑car loan. *cue the tiny violins*_______________________________Link to the full story in The Wall Street JournalConnect with Chris Otts on LinkedIn_______________________________Merch is here!Honest, stylish and perfect for all your "off duty" occasions.Shop Men, Women and Kids best sellers: https://evs4everyone-shop.fourthwall.com/________________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

By the time your team feels like somebody’s watching, they’ve already taken the money and run. Jim McGuire, Senior Director of Product Marketing at Experian Automotive, joined me at NADA a few weeks ago to talk about the rising threat of fraud in auto dealerships. Jim explains that nearly 9 in 10 dealers are concerned about fraud, and about 70% say the problem is growing compared with previous years. He outlines three primary fraud types impacting dealers: identity fraud, vehicle fraud, and income/employment fraud. A major focus is synthetic identity fraud, where fraudsters blend pieces of real personal data to build a fake identity and credit history before “busting out” with high‑value vehicle purchases (like EVs). Jim emphasizes that fraud prevention must be embedded across the entire sales process, from validating driver’s licenses and insurance before test drives to confirming trade‑in ownership, liens, and title status. The conversation also challenges the notion that fraud is solely a lender problem, as many dealers ultimately “hold the bag” when fraud losses aren’t fully covered by lenders or insurers. So what's the bottom line? Dealers need to take a more proactive, holistic approach to fraud mitigation, supported by data, tools, and insights. Although this is a bit of a departure from pure EV news content, fraud is definitely a growing issue in the retail space that deserves to be highlighted. The link to Jim's report is here!_______________________________Check out Experian's EV Resource Page for all things electric vehicle data_______________________________This episode is sponsored by Experian. Experian is a global data and technology company, powering opportunities for people and businesses around the world. Experian helps to redefine lending practices, uncover and prevent fraud, simplify healthcare, deliver digital marketing solutions, and gain deeper insights into the automotive market, all using their unique combination of data, analytics and software. Learn more herehttps://www.experian.com/automotive/ev-resource-center?cmpid=EVS_for_Everyone_______________________________Here's the link to Experian's Automotive Dealer Fraud Threat Report_______________________________Connect with Jim on LinkedIn________________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

The vet said Bear is chunky. Now he wants a second opinion. Earlier this week, we talked about Tesla dropping the Dual Motor AWD Cybertruck to $59,990 finally approaching that mythical 2019 $40k promise if you ignore inflation, reality. But wait! New information surfaced this week and it's definitely a limited-time deal ending February 28th, because nothing says "trust us" like a countdown timer for a Black Friday doorbuster. Meanwhile BYD is steamrolling the continent with sales numbers and aggressive pricing. They're not just growing; they're basically giving EVs away with breakfast. Big news from the bull: Lamborghini cancels its first all-electric model because demand for electric Lambos is "near zero." So they're pivoting to plug-in hybrids to keep the glorious engine noise alive. Volvo is recalling 40,323 EX30 SUVs to replace modules in their high-voltage battery packs due to a fire risk, with the fix expected to cost around $200 million. The EX30 is Volvo's entry-level electric SUV, popular in Europe, and this recall hits nearly all units sold so far. While this is disappointing news it does underscore the reality: scaling EVs is hard, y'all.__________________________Bear wants you to support his snack addiction. But don't tell the vet.Shop the "Feelin' Snackish" Women's Crewneck Sweatshirt and shop all merch here!https://evs4everyone-shop.fourthwall.com_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Good morning to everyone except the one guy who roasted my mic flag in Vegas a few weeks ago. Let's get into it! Tesla drops a more wallet-friendly dual-motor Cybertruck base model at $59,990, complete with humble cloth seats and slightly dialed-back towing, yet it still promises a solid ~325-mile range. Elon teases that this “affordable” version is “only for the next 10 days,” leaving everyone wondering if it's a flash sale or just classic Musk mixed messaging sabotaging his own demand. Meanwhile, the Cyberbeast gets a $14k haircut to $99,990, Lucid slashes 12% of its U.S. workforce to chase better margins amid sluggish high-end EV sales (even with the sleek new Gravity Touring SUV dropping), and used non-Tesla EVs dip 3.6% in value while used Teslas buck the trend and climb 4.3%. Bottom line: if you're looking for a another ride right now, a used Model 3 or Y going for under $40K is a steal._______________________________Are you an OG fan of the show and wanna record an upcoming segment with me? Email me at [email protected] and tell me why : )_______________________________Merch is here!Honest, stylish and perfect for all your "off duty" occasions.Shop Men, Women and Kids best sellers: https://evs4everyone-shop.fourthwall.com/_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Comedian Blake Wexler joins the show today to unpack the latest EV twists and turns and fair warning: you'll need a sense of humor and imagination for this one. This is *not* an in-depth industry analysis. First, Farley’s push for a new universal EV platform (UEV), is positioned as a bold effort to create efficient, affordable American EVs amid massive reported EV losses and industry pullbacks. Then, we mention the broader workforce stakes of Chinese EV makers like BYD and Geely planning U.S. factories, as well as the potential impact on nearly a million American jobs. Next, Toyota’s upcoming 2027 all-electric Highlander SUV is highlighted as a late but significant move away from gas and hybrid models, sparking a reflection on die-hard brand and team loyalty (exemplified by Philadelphia 76ers fans too?) And finally, we dig into Tesla’s Cybercab, a steering wheel–less, pedal–less autonomous vehicle raising questions about safety perceptions, design aesthetics, and how people might ease into trusting fully self-driving rides. The whole thing closes with plugs for Blake's upcoming Atlanta and Philadelphia tour dates, callbacks to glorious nicknames like "E train" and "Kid Streak," and the kind of unhinged loyalty usually reserved for Sixers fans who still believe next year is the year.________________________Blake Wexler is a New York-based comedian who started doing stand-up at the age of 15 as a high school student in Philadelphia. In addition to writing for and appearing on Comedy Central & ABC, Blake also has been a featured performer in (too) many comedy festivals and can be regularly heard on The Cracked, Daily Zeitgeist & The Todd Glass Show podcasts. He is also the host of the gameshow LIES! for the Philadelphia Eagles. All four of Blake’s critically acclaimed stand-up comedy records debuted at #1 on the iTunes & Amazon comedy charts, and his album 12 Years of Voicemails from Todd Glass to Blake Wexler charted on Billboard.________________________Follow Blake on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blakewexlerhttps://x.com/blakewexlerWebsite: https://www.blakewexler.com/Tour Dates: https://www.blakewexler.com/live-dates_______________________________Merch is here!Honest, stylish and perfect for all your "off duty" occasions.Shop Men, Women and Kids Collections: https://evs4everyone-shop.fourthwall.com/____________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

In honor of Galentine's Day, I've assembled a powerhouse trio: Alycia Gilde (LA County’s decarbonization dynamo wrangling fleets for 10 million people), Rachael Nealer (Atlas Public Policy’s sharp-eyed analyst keeping tabs on clean energy wins), and Erika Myers (CharIN North America’s queen of charging standards). Erika drops the mic on those “EV slowdown” headlines while Rachael spotlights states flexing those NEVI funds beyond highway chargers. Then, Alycia spills the tea on her efforts to turn public agencies into zero-emission anchor buyers, battling duty cycles, range anxiety, and procurement drama with telematics and smart partnerships. If you're curious about where EVs are really headed, want optimism grounded in facts, or just love celebrating legendary women crushing it in a male-dominated field, hit play. You'll walk away informed, inspired, and probably smiling. Happy Galentine's Day, trailblazers!______________________________________Alycia Gilde is Chief Strategy Officer for Climate Action Partnerships at Los Angeles County Internal Services Department where she forges strategic public-private partnerships to accelerate the County's Zero-Emission Vehicle (ZEV) deployment goals and drives the decarbonization of municipal infrastructure through integrated energy and resiliency measures to help shape an equitable and sustainable future for 10 million residents.Erika Myers is Executive Director at CharIN North America. CharIN is a leading global charging technology association dedicated to accelerating the electric vehicle transition through the adoption of universal open and interoperable charging standards. Erika guides CharIN's activities in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, engaging with members, governments, and other stakeholders, and focusing on the use of open standards and interoperability for public infrastructure investments.Rachael Nealer is a Director at Atlas Public Policy, where she provides strategic leadership and policy expertise to advance data-driven solutions for transportation electrification, climate policy, and infrastructure. She brings over a decade of experience spanning federal government leadership, academic research, and cross-sector collaboration to tackle complex energy and environmental challenges.______________________________Alycia and I wore matching shirts for this episode!Shop the "Easily Distracted by Dogs and EVs" Women's V-Neck TeeGet free shipping on all orders over $75 -> shop here_______________________________Connect with Alycia on LinkedInConnect with Erika on LinkedInConnect with Rachael on LinkedIn________________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Live from NADA in Las Vegas, Melinda Zabritski, Head of Financial Insights at Experian Automotive, confesses she finally caved and bought a Hyundai Ioniq 5 and discovered range anxiety is mostly just hype. Late model used EVs remain elusive unicorns, so budget conscious shoppers are forced to hunt older models or risk higher monthly payments. Prices spiked in 2021 and apparently decided to never drop back down; affordability is officially the villain we all love to hate. Off-lease volumes are still low right now, but they're warming up the engines for a 2027 flood when millions of vehicles (roughly a third EVs) will hit the market. Melinda's dealer PSA: quit shrugging at incentives and start mastering those state-level credits before you leave money on the table. EV sales may have cooled from their "tax credit deadline fever pitch," but they still dominate new leases. Sorry, “EVs are dead” headlines, you're just clickbait. Expect EV market share to settle in the mid-single digits for now, while hybrids and plug-ins quietly steal more market share. Tax credits and low lease deals have democratized EVs, letting lower-credit buyers slide into the driver's seat instead of just admiring from the curb. Melinda and I also share a laugh over Gen Z potentially dubbing a 2014 gas car "vintage," though Melinda insists most just want affordable wheels that still feel tech-forward. Tune in for an episode of EV insights and random ice bucket questions live from NADA 2026!_______________________________Automotive Financial Insights from ExperianHow is your business competing in today’s market? Access the latest Experian analysis to find out.Our review of the automotive finance market provides a detailed look into:EV Market GrowthRising Loan Amounts and PaymentsCredit Score TrendsDelinquency and Balance TrendsPlus a look at deeper look at the used car financing market.Download the report herehttps://www.experian.com/automotive/automotive-credit-webinar_______________________________Check out Experian's EV Resource Page for all things electric vehicle data_______________________________This episode is sponsored by Experian. Experian is a global data and technology company, powering opportunities for people and businesses around the world. Experian helps to redefine lending practices, uncover and prevent fraud, simplify healthcare, deliver digital marketing solutions, and gain deeper insights into the automotive market, all using their unique combination of data, analytics and software. Learn more herehttps://www.experian.com/automotive/ev-resource-center?cmpid=EVS_for_Everyone_______________________________Connect with Melinda on LinkedIn_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Live from the Cox Automotive stage at NADA 2026 in Vegas, I teamed up with the dynamic duo: Pete Grupposo (SVP, Sales at Manheim + NextGear Capital) and Patrick Janes (AVP, vAuto Inventory Solutions) to dissect the tidal wave of off-lease BEVs crashing ashore this year. We're talking a jaw-dropping 185% surge, rocketing from modest numbers to roughly 300,000 units flooding the used EV scene. Yes, that's the kind of growth that makes even seasoned dealers do a double-take. We unpacked how this deluge is about to remix the entire used EV market, with tons of these freshly returned rides cruising through upstream wholesale channels instead of straight to retail lots. Dealers, take note: your sourcing playbook just got an electric upgrade. We also covered why the expired tax credits are ironically doing us a favor, finally bringing some crystal-clear pricing and real-world data to used EVs. Then there's the great dealer divide: the "EVs? Hard pass" crowd versus the ones building legit EV cultures and reaping the rewards. Spoiler: one side is probably sleeping better at night. Surprise hits in states like Virginia, Ohio, Kentucky, and Oklahoma, where sub-$25,000 used EVs are quietly becoming the hottest ticket for budget-savvy buyers. Turns out, these cars deliver shockingly low ownership costs perfect for younger drivers or first-timers who want to plug in without selling a kidney. And don't sleep on the luxury used EV goldmine! Imagine snagging a BMW or Mercedes EV that once felt forever out of reach, now suddenly attainable. We dove into battery health scores as the ultimate trust-builder (because nothing kills range anxiety faster than hard numbers proving "your battery's still got game"). Oh, and yes... I couldn't resist dropping my weird new parody lyrics to "We Didn't Start the Fire" because nothing says 'serious industry panel' like electric-themed Billy Joel lyrics. Don't miss these 18 minutes of pure edu-tainment that you've come to expect from yours truly!______________________________Shop the "Caffeinated and Overly Confident" Merch CollectionCheck out the entire EV4E merch store!https://evs4everyone-shop.fourthwall.com/______________________________This episode is sponsored by Cox Automotive. Cox Automotive is the world’s largest automotive services and technology provider. Fueled by the largest breadth of first-party data fed by 2.3 billion online interactions a year, Cox Automotive tailors leading solutions for car shoppers, auto manufacturers, dealers, lenders and fleets. The company has a portfolio of industry-leading brands that include Autotrader®, Kelley Blue Book®, Manheim®, vAuto®, Dealertrack®, NextGear Capital™, CentralDispatch® and FleetNet America®. To learn more, visit coxautoinc.com_______________________________Connect with Pete on LinkedInConnect with Patrick on LinkedIn_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Live from the electric buzz of Formula E in Miami, I sat down with Brandon Baldassari, Head of Jaguar USA, for a no-holds-barred chat on why the Leaper is ditching gas for good. Jaguar isn't just dipping a paw into EVs, they're cannonballing in with a 100% electric future. We break down the design-first manifesto fueling their wild new 1,000HP four-door GT (yes, horsepower that high in a Jag), the upcoming EV SUV poised to rewrite the rulebook, and that billion-view Type 00 viral moment that had the internet simultaneously losing its mind and hitting refresh. And for the keyboard warriors typing "but reliability?" from their gas-guzzlers: Brandon drops real world receipts. Waymo's I-Pace fleet is casually clocking 150,000+ miles per car, proving Jaguar EVs can handle the daily grind (and then some). From keeping dealers engaged to keeping clients loyal during their "messy middle" era, Brandon's got the playbook and zero patience for doubters.____________________________Show note: After recording this episode, Jaguar TCS Racing’s Mitch Evans took his first win of the 2025/26 ABB FIA Formula E World Championship at the Miami E-Prix, climbing from ninth on the grid on a damp track to take a memorable victory. It marked Mitch's 15th career win in Formula E, all with Jaguar, meaning he’s now taken the most victories in the championship’s 11-year history. The Jaguar TCS Racing #9 driver also took the fastest lap at the Miami International Autodrome, confirming his peerless form in difficult conditions._______________________________Shop the "Sorry Officer, It Was the Instant Torque" Men's TeeCheck out the entire EV4E merch store!https://evs4everyone-shop.fourthwall.com/_______________________________Connect with Brandon on LinkedIn_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Matt Damon sets the tone for this episode while I throw on another hoodie and warm up my third cup of coffee. First up, essential cold-weather EV survival strategies, from preconditioning your battery while plugged in to prioritizing seat heaters over cabin blasting and making sure your tires are *inflated* to combat that dreaded 20-40% range loss in sub-zero temps. Have you heard? Tesla's groundbreaking launch of unsupervised Robotaxi rides in Austin as of January 22, 2026, where passengers are now hopping into fully autonomous Model Ys with no safety driver. Also, 2026 is shaping up as the ultimate year to snag a used EV, thanks to a massive wave of low-mileage lease returns flooding the market from 2023's tax-credit boom, driving prices down and making electric ownership more accessible than ever. And now, please enjoy the Rocky IV tune as I trudge through 13 inches of snow and ice.______________________________Merch is here!Honest, stylish and perfect for all your "off duty" occasions.Shop Men, Women and Kids Collections: https://evs4everyone-shop.fourthwall.com/_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Official EV4E merch has dropped! (more deets at the 5:05 mark). In other news, Hyundai is finally waving goodbye to its ICE i10 hatchback after 18 years and 3.3 million units sold. In its place? The IONIQ 3, an affordable entry-level EV dropping in April 2026 with zero plans to grace U.S. shores just yet. Meanwhile, Ford's playing geopolitical chess by flirting with China's BYD for hybrid batteries destined for non-U.S. factories. The talks are non-binding for now, but the controversy's already brewing. Ford's CEO Jim Farley is also insisting the USMCA North American supply chain is non-negotiable for staying competitive. Ditch it, and car prices skyrocket while the industry takes a nosedive. (Trump's calling the whole deal “irrelevant,”) Up north, Canada's just dropped tariffs on Chinese EVs with a starter quota of 49,000 units. If sub-$26K EVs prove irresistible, will those limits quietly vanish?______________________________Merch is here!Use code ELENA for 15% off your order from now until Friday, January 23, 2026.https://evs4everyone-shop.fourthwall.com/______________________________Don't miss me at NADA for Cox Automotive's The EV Inflection: Sourcing Strategy Meets Retail Reality - West HallThursday, Feb. 5 | 2:30 pm–2:50 pm_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Mike Murphy, veteran Republican strategist and founder of EVs for America, proves you can love Detroit muscle, GOP grit, and EVs without short circuiting your identity. On today's episode, he shares eye opening polling showing Republicans' old "EVs are for tree-huggers" vibe has flipped from a +18 net agree to a -2 in just three years, a 20-point thaw. Yet Elon Musk remains the ultimate party-poisoner. Adored by 67% of Republicans as an EV ambassador, but overall trashed so badly that Tesla now lurks near the bottom among serious EV shoppers. Meanwhile, China's playing 4D chess by subsidizing EVs to oblivion, aiming to hollow out American and allied auto industries like a geopolitical termite.**NOTE: Canada has just struck a major trade deal with China on January 16, 2026, slashing the previous 100% tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles down to a 6.1% most-favored-nation rate, allowing up to 49,000 Chinese EVs (like affordable models from BYD) into the market annually with the quota set to rise to about 70,000 in five years in exchange for China cutting steep duties on key Canadian exports like canola. This marks a sharp break from the U.S.'s protectionist stance and aims to boost Canada's lagging EV sales (which tanked in 2025), spur potential Chinese investment in local auto production, though it's sparking backlash from figures like Ontario Premier Doug Ford over risks to domestic jobs and industry.Meanwhile, Mike says it's time for defensive subsidies to keep our factories humming, and rightly so. California, where one in three U.S. EVs finds a home, emerges as the critical battleground, with Mike lobbying hard for a fresh $2,000–$4,000 credit (for first-timer EV buyers) and multifamily overnight charging to unlock the apartment-dweller market. He dismisses the "EV winter" doomscrolling as overblown and notes solid products like the bargain Nissan Leaf, Ford's cost-slaying next-gen platform, and GM's new battery tech will keep the momentum rolling. California listeners: consider this your bat signal and email your assembly members to back those credits and charging incentives, then swing by the American EV Jobs Alliance site to arm yourself with their advocacy tools and maybe even chip in? Mike and his team are out here doing great work, throw him a few shekels if you can!______________________________Check out: Fixing America’s Partisan Divide Over EVs: Tracking Three Years of Slow ProgressConnect with Mike Murphy on X, LinkedIn and listen to his podcast "Hacks on Tap"_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

The internet was in a tizzy yesterday over Tesla's latest "love you but gotta pay monthly" move, so of course we gotta talk about it. Starting February 14th (Happy Valentine's Day!), Tesla is axing the one time $8,000 Full Self Driving (FSD) purchase. New buyers (and existing owners) now face the monthly glow-up: $99/month or $999/year. Existing owners who already purchased FSD outright? You're grandfathered in and can transfer it when you sell your car like a fancy heirloom. Tesla gets predictable recurring revenue to fuel those magical OTA updates, while the rest of us ponder if our cars are about to start charging us rent. At the same time, Bloomberg says "EV Winter Is Coming," and predicts 2026 EV sales growth to drop to a sleepy 12% (after 23% last year), with ~24.3 million passenger EVs expected worldwide. China's slashing subsidies, halving tax breaks, and telling everyone to chill on the price war. And the US? It's full-on "EV winter" mode, so you better go ahead and grab your puffer jacket.______________________________Rideable Suitcases by Chris Fleming_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Bear wants you to know the crossing guard hooked him up with two treats today. Good boy status is now confirmed. Also, Stellantis is discontinuing all plug-in hybrid models in North America starting with the 2026 model year. That means the Jeep Wrangler 4xe, Grand Cherokee 4xe, and Chrysler Pacifica PHEV are officially fading into the sunset, cue the sad violins. Meanwhile, Ford is pushing hard toward Level 3 "eyes-off" autonomous driving by 2028, teasing a roughly $30,000 midsize electric pickup called the UEV Ride for 2027, and rolling out an AI assistant in its phone app in 2026 that uses your vehicle's VIN (and photos) to give towing and cargo advice. Scout Motors, VW's rugged revival brand, just got the green light for direct-to-consumer sales in Colorado, igniting a classic dealer-OEM family feud that's bound to get messier. CES felt like a full-on Chinese automaker glow-up, with brands like Zeekr (and others) showing off luxurious, rocket-fast EVs that make you wonder if Western buyers are being catfished by all these promises of affordable performance. These cars aren't even available in the U.S. for goodness sake (yet??) And finally, possibly the highlight, Fiat's tiny Topolino microcar arrives with a blistering top speed of 28 mph, 47-mile range, and just 8 horsepower. Bear could probably outrun it in a straight line. So, is this for resort cruising, retirement communities, or the world's most polite getaway car? What do we think?_______________________________The EVs for Everyone Shop is revving up and about to drop!Get ready for exclusive merch that screams “caffeinated and overly confident” without actually screaming.Subscribe to the show right now so you don’t miss the official launch announcement this month.Trust me, you do not want FOMO when the doors open!_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________

Buckle up for round two of our CES 2026 auto highlights series! Cormac Martin, General Manager of MOVE America and MOVE London, joins the show to dive deep into autonomous vehicles (AVs) and of course the unstoppable robot takeover. We start with the Lucid-Uber-Nuro robotaxi partnership, unveiled in all its glory at CES, where "collaboration" means turning competitors into a blurry trio of frenemies plotting world (or at least ride-hailing) domination. Next, Waymo says "oh-hi" with their sleek new Ojai van (built by China's Zeekr and rebranded for the U.S.), reminding us that building a purpose-made robo-ride is way harder than acing a blizzard parallel park. Next up is a quick spotlight on Wayve, a UK-based autonomous driving tech company that's ditching manual data labeling for pure end-to-end AI magic without breaking the bank. Haven't you heard? 2026 is officially the Year of the Robot. Get ready to picture epic imaginary cage fights between Tesla's Optimus, Boston Dynamics' Atlas, and LG's (really slow) CLOiD, the tortoise of the humanoid pack. Hit play for exclusive auto scoops from CES that you won't hear anywhere else!______________________________Connect with Cormac on LinkedIn and check out MOVE London June 17-18 2026_______________________________Connect with Elena:https://evs4everyone.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenaciccotelli/Let's talk on X:https://twitter.com/EVs_forEveryoneAre you connected with the show on LinkedIn? https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-evs-for-everyone-podcast/________________________