Topic: Electric Motors

GM CEO Mary Barra reaffirmed the company's commitment to an all-electric future despite a slowdown in EV sales. The hosts discuss the high cost of EVs compared to hybrids like the new Toyota Prius, which starts at $27,950. They also share an anecdote about the Ford Lightning's undercarriage sensors shutting the truck down when driving through tall grass.

President Biden visited a General Motors plant to promote the $7.5 billion allocated for electric vehicle charging stations in the new infrastructure law. Critics argue that focusing on EV infrastructure is a poor priority while many Americans are currently struggling with high conventional fuel prices.

Chevrolet expands its voluntary recall to include all Bolt electric vehicle models from 2019 through 2022 due to a fire risk from defective battery modules. The recall highlights ongoing safety concerns regarding large-scale lithium-ion battery implementation in the automotive industry.

California transit agencies are considering scrapping electric bus fleets due to high maintenance costs and fire risks. Simultaneously, General Motors issued a recall for Chevy Bolt models from 2017-2019, advising owners to limit charging to 90% and park vehicles outside to prevent spontaneous battery fires. These incidents highlight the ongoing safety and infrastructure challenges facing the electric vehicle industry.

The 2019 Geneva Motor Show is dominated by electric and hybrid vehicles as manufacturers race to meet tough new EU emission standards. Highlights include the 2,000-horsepower Pininfarina Battista and the Citroën Ami One, a "slow" urban object that does not require a driver's license. The marketing of hybrids is noted for emphasizing "clean" city driving while maintaining petrol power for long distances.

A review of the Mini Cooper hybrid highlights how small three-cylinder engines are paired with electric motors to provide acceleration boosts. While the electric range is limited, the combination offers a practical application of hybrid technology for city driving. This shift in preference from full electric vehicles like Tesla to hybrids suggests a re-evaluation of battery limitations and vehicle utility.

The ongoing debate regarding Adam Curry's potential lease of a Chevy Volt is revisited. Despite listener warnings about parts availability and reliability, the low lease price of $166 per month is discussed as a potential "value" for a short-term vehicle.

The hosts discuss a $10,000 price reduction and attractive lease deals for the Chevy Volt as General Motors attempts to clear inventory. They debate the merits of the electric vehicle, its manufacturing costs, and the social stigma of driving a "subsidized" car. The segment also features a note from a nuclear reactor designer who supports the show.

John Stossel presented a historical overview of electric car "breakthroughs" dating back to 1915, characterizing the industry as a century of failure. Current concerns focus on Tesla Motors founder Elon Musk's reported financial difficulties and the environmental impact of manufacturing and disposing of large-scale lithium batteries. The $500 million government loan facility for electric vehicle development is also scrutinized.

The discussion references the documentary Who Killed the Electric Car? and the history of the General Motors EV1. Adam Curry mentions rumors regarding suppressed battery patents that prevent the development of more efficient electric vehicles. The hosts debate whether the automotive industry intentionally hindered electric car adoption in previous decades.