Shows
The TechMobility PodcastDoes Bollinger Motors Have a Future, 2025 Lexus TX SUV review, Knowing Wet Bulb Temperature, and Domestic Bees in CrisisDrop me a text and let me know what you think of this episode!The automotive industry has always been a battleground where dreams and capital collide - something startup EV manufacturer Bollinger Motors discovered firsthand. Beginning with prototype models B1 and B2, Bollinger's journey from ambitious newcomer to acquisition target illustrates the fundamental truth about automotive manufacturing: you need billions, not millions, and decades of commitment to make a meaningful impact.After being acquired by Mullen Automotive, Bollinger's story took an unexpected turn. While most startups quickly burn through capital and disappear, Mullen boasts...2025-06-3041 min
The TechMobility PodcastData Vultures, Nuclear Energy, Clean Water Heroes, and Self-Driving Amazon CarsDrop me a text and let me know what you think of this episode!When technology evolves faster than legislation, who protects your privacy? This episode dives deep into the concerning world of automatic license plate readers operated by companies like Flock Safety, which are collecting data on your movements without consent or oversight. We expose how law enforcement agencies have been caught circumventing state laws to conduct nationwide searches—a wake-up call about the urgent need for comprehensive data protection in America.As our power grid strains under growing demands from data centers and AI...2025-06-3041 min
The TechMobility PodcastDistracted Trucking, Luxury Cars, Humanoid Robots, and the go-anywhere 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser reviewDrop me a text and let me know what you think of this episode!Behind the wheel of a commercial truck weighing up to 60 tons, distraction can turn deadly in seconds. New research reveals a shocking truth: 79% of truck drivers reported close calls due to distraction, primarily from mobile devices. At highway speeds, these massive vehicles cover a football field every few seconds—a sobering reality for everyone sharing the road.The legendary Toyota Land Cruiser has returned after a brief hiatus, shedding its luxury pretensions to embrace its rugged heritage. With 74 years of global hi...2025-06-0941 minThe TechMobility PodcastMeet the Wood That Laughs at Steel, Who is Rural America, Wanted: More Wheelchair RampsDrop me a text and let me know what you think of this episode!A revolutionary material that could transform our built environment is emerging from laboratories into commercial production. Super Wood, developed at the University of Maryland, demonstrates strength properties that outmatch conventional steel while maintaining a dramatically lighter profile. With 50% greater tensile strength and a weight-to-strength ratio ten times better than steel, this transformed natural material is heading to market this summer after seven years of development. Unlike steel production, which releases nearly two tons of carbon dioxide per ton manufactured, Super Wood sequesters carbon...2025-06-0241 min
The TechMobility PodcastEV Battery Fire Suppression, Genesis GV80 Coupe Review, Burning Man for Runners, Corporate Climate Change QuagmireDrop me a text and let me know what you think of this episode!Hyundai Mobis has revolutionized EV safety with a breakthrough battery fire suppression system that doesn't just delay thermal runaway fires—it prevents them entirely. The technology utilizes real-time temperature and voltage monitoring to command fire suppressant within five minutes of ignition, stopping fires before they spread to adjacent cells. This innovation comes at a pivotal moment when global regulatory bodies are mandating stronger EV safety measures, with China leading since 2021 and the US implementing requirements this past March.What makes this de...2025-05-2643 min
The TechMobility PodcastShifting Gears: EVs, Tiny Homes, and Ghost Trucks; 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander reviewDrop me a text and let me know what you think of this episode!California's charging revolution has quietly reshaped the electric vehicle landscape, with the Golden State now boasting an astonishing 48% more EV chargers than gas nozzles. This remarkable milestone challenges the persistent narrative about charging scarcity, though important questions remain about fast charger availability and accessibility for apartment dwellers. The dramatic 70% year-over-year growth demonstrates how quickly infrastructure can evolve when necessity drives innovation.Behind the wheel of the 2025 Mitsubishi Outlander reveals a vehicle that represents the automaker's best effort yet. This seven-passenger SUV...2025-05-1241 minThe TechMobility PodcastMercedes' Solar Paint Revolution, AI in Humans Out, Made in America, Secret Radio StationsDrop me a text and let me know what you think of this episode!Revolutionary solar paint technology from Mercedes could transform how we power our vehicles. This breakthrough innovation promises to deliver enough energy annually to drive nearly 8,700 miles without plugging in—eliminating range anxiety and potentially reshaping the entire EV landscape. With current photovoltaic cells functioning at just 20% efficiency, future improvements could push this technology to power 15,000, 20,000, or even 30,000 miles annually. Imagine never needing to search for a charging station or worry about electricity costs.Meanwhile, Duolingo has become the first major company to...2025-05-1241 min
The TechMobility PodcastHow Vocational EVs Make Economic Sense; 2025 Hyundai Tucson review; Is AI Replacing Us All; Electric Vehicles and Highway SafetyDrop me a text and let me know what you think of this episode!The mobility landscape is transforming before our eyes, with technological advancements creating both opportunities and challenges that demand our attention.Commercial trucking is undergoing a significant shift as PACCAR brands Kenworth and Peterbilt introduce fully electric vocational trucks after five years of development. These aren't mere experiments—they're purpose-built workhorses delivering up to 605 peak horsepower and 1850 foot-pounds of torque, capable of handling an impressive 82,000 pounds. What makes these viable? Their predictable use patterns and nightly returns to the same depot eliminate ra...2025-05-0543 minThe TechMobility PodcastAre You Who You Say You Are, Why Public Transit is Safer, Changing Coffee OptionsDrop me a text and let me know what you think of this episode!A digital doppelgänger might be stealing cars in your name right now. The automotive industry is facing an alarming new threat as sophisticated scammers deploy deep fake technology to defraud dealerships and manufacturers. These criminals create convincingly realistic digital personas—sometimes mimicking actual customers—to orchestrate vehicle thefts worth tens of thousands of dollars each.What makes this particularly chilling is how they might be using your own social media videos as raw material. That innocent Facebook update or Instagram reel...2025-04-2844 minThe TechMobility PodcastRivian's Micromobility Revolution, America's Most Dependable Vehicles, No Human Need Apply, Navigating Trucking's Messy MiddleDrop me a text and let me know what you think of this episode!Rivian is expanding beyond traditional electric vehicles with a bold new venture into micromobility. The EV manufacturer that's attracted billions in investment from Amazon, Ford, and Volkswagen has launched "ALSO" – a separate startup focused on developing small, lightweight electric vehicles for global markets. With $105 million in initial funding from Eclipse Ventures, ALSO represents Rivian's acknowledgment that transportation solutions must vary dramatically across different cultures and geographies. While Americans embrace spacious trucks and SUVs thanks to our highway-centric infrastructure, many global markets require entirely di...2025-04-1444 minThe TechMobility PodcastGas Who? Hydrogen's Takes the Wheel, Kia K4 GT-Line Review, From Go-Karts to F1, AI Reshapes Rural AmericaDrop me a text and let me know what you think of this episode!The transportation landscape is undergoing a hydrogen revolution that few are talking about. While headlines focus on battery electric vehicles, hydrogen is quietly emerging as the true contender for zero-emission long-haul trucking. As I reveal in this episode, hydrogen offers two compelling pathways - direct combustion in modified engines or electricity generation via fuel cells - both eliminating the weight, charging, and capacity challenges that plague battery electric solutions in Class 8 trucks.Hyundai and Toyota are already proving hydrogen's commercial viability...2025-04-0743 minThe TechMobility PodcastCheap Cars, Empty Stores, and Workers That Don't Need Bathroom BreaksDrop me a text and let me know what you think of this episode!Volkswagen's groundbreaking partnership with Rivian marks a pivotal moment in the democratization of electric vehicles. With a substantial $1.3 billion investment, the German automaker has accelerated its EV timeline, bringing forward the launch of its first software-defined vehicle (SDV) – the ID.1 electric minicar. Set to debut in 2027 at a remarkably affordable price point around €20,000, this compact EV aims to serve first-time buyers, older customers, and commercial delivery services.The strategy exemplifies how established automakers are responding to the influx of low-cost Chinese EVs...2025-04-0744 minThe TechMobility PodcastEV Infrastructure Challenges, Ford Ranger Raptor Review, The Mobile Service Department, and What is a Self-Driving Car?Drop me a text and let me know what you think of this episode!The electric vehicle landscape in America faces a pivotal moment as the suspension of the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Funding Formula Program puts $1.5 billion of charging station development on hold. As public funding stalls, private solutions emerge with major automakers adopting Tesla's charging standard to give their customers access to the reliable Supercharger network. Meanwhile, new EVs continue pushing range boundaries beyond 450 miles, challenging traditional concerns about electric mobility.Taking center stage in our vehicle spotlight, the Ford Ranger's evolution from...2025-03-3144 minThe TechMobility PodcastAI Revolution in the Auto Industry, A Forklift-Free Future, Why Traffic Deaths are Stubbornly HighDrop me a text and let me know what you think of this episode!General Motors has made a pivotal move in the automotive industry by appointing Barak Turovsky, formerly of Cisco and Google, as its first-ever Chief AI Officer. This signals GM's commitment to revolutionizing how artificial intelligence shapes everything from manufacturing processes to customer experiences. With over 115 years of data to analyze, AI implementation could transform how vehicles are designed, built, and sold while potentially saving billions in operational costs.The appointment raises fascinating questions about responsible AI deployment. Without federal regulations establishing...2025-03-3144 minThe TechMobility PodcastFrom Aging Military Ships to Futuristic Land Aircraft Carriers: A TechMobility JourneyDrop me a text and let me know what you think of this episode!America's military might seems unstoppable on paper, but a critical vulnerability lurks beneath the surface. The Pentagon is urgently seeking to purchase used cargo ships to bolster an aging logistics fleet that supports global military operations. Despite spending more on defense than the next ten countries combined, the U.S. relies on supply ships with a median age of 47 years – some even running on steam power. This precarious situation threatens our ability to project power worldwide when needed most.Moving from na...2025-03-2444 minThe TechMobility PodcastCadillac's Electric Revolution Continues; The Human Authorship Standard; Why America Imports Oil; and a Hotel for CowsDrop me a text and let me know what you think of this episode!Cadillac's electric revolution takes center stage as Ken Chester examines the upcoming 2026 Vistiq, a luxury three-row SUV that represents the brand's ambitious push to dominate the EV market. Despite packing a massive 102-kilowatt-hour battery, the Vistiq's 300-mile range falls short compared to competitors offering 500+ miles. Yet the vehicle highlights how traditional automakers are finally finding their footing in the EV space, with General Motors now achieving operational profitability on electric vehicles.The episode takes a fascinating detour into intellectual property rights...2025-03-1744 minThe TechMobility PodcastNavigating Technology's Double Edge: AI in Mobility, Audi Q7 Review, and Urban Street DebatesDrop me a text and let me know what you think of this episode!AI is revolutionizing the transportation industry at breakneck speed, but are we ready for the consequences? Chinese automakers BYD and XPENG are leading this charge with groundbreaking innovations that could reshape our automotive landscape forever. BYD's decision to implement their "God's Eye" self-driving technology on vehicles priced under $10,000 signals a democratization of advanced features previously reserved for luxury models. Meanwhile, XPENG's P7 Plus introduces what they call the "world's first AI-defined vehicle," merging premium quality with sophisticated AI integration.These developments...2025-03-1144 minThe TechMobility PodcastAI-Directed Microgrids, Robot Baseball Umpires and Natural Climate SolutionsDrop me a text and let me know what you think of this episode!Technology and tradition collide in this fascinating exploration of how innovation disrupts established systems—sometimes for better, sometimes creating unforeseen challenges.Massachusetts' well-intentioned EV truck regulations have created a peculiar standstill: dealers can't sell the diesel trucks businesses need until they sell electric trucks that customers don't want and infrastructure can't support. With just 301 electric trucks among 186,000 medium/heavy-duty vehicles in the state, this regulatory mismatch demonstrates the "messy middle" of decarbonization efforts when policy outpaces practicality.Meanwhile, a qu...2025-03-1044 minThe TechMobility PodcastMaking EVs Profitable; Nissan Rogue Rock Creek Review; A Colorado River Update; Immigrants and Your FoodDrop me a text and let me know what you think of this episode!In this episode, we dive deep into the changing landscape of the automotive and agricultural sectors, revealing how they're interconnected and what it could mean for consumers. Rivian has made headlines with its recent profit reports, marking a significant milestone in its quest to rival established players like Tesla in the electric vehicle market. We explore Rivian's strategic choices that have helped it flourish against all odds, alongside GM's promising path toward profitability as it navigates the intricate world of EV production. 2025-03-0444 minThe TechMobility PodcastIs Technology Dehumanizing Our Workplaces; Old Cars, New Opportunities; Humanoid Robot for Your HomeDrop me a text and let me know what you think of this episode!Technology is rapidly reshaping workplaces and homes, presenting opportunities and challenges at every turn. In our latest episode, we tackle the controversial topic of AI performance monitoring systems being implemented in factories. These systems offer a glimpse into a future where every move made by employees is tracked, raising serious ethical concerns about privacy and employee dignity. We also delve into a significant recent event: the recall of over 877,000 General Motors vehicles due to critical engine failures linked to their 6.2-liter V...2025-03-0444 minThe TechMobility PodcastLucid Dreams; Acura MDX Type S Review; Humans Need Not Apply; Critters in the SewersDrop me a text and let me know what you think of this episode!Join me as we ignite conversations surrounding the latest in automotive innovation! In this episode, we bring you insights into the transformative world of electric vehicles— spotlighting the futuristic Lucid Gravity SUV and the luxurious Acura MDX Type S. The Gravity is a game changer in the EV market with its impressive range and advanced charging capabilities, while the MDX Type S marries performance with comfort, showcasing Acura's commitment to luxury and user experience.As we explore cutting-edge technologies, we also to...2025-02-2544 minThe TechMobility PodcastAn Iowa City Hikes EV Charging Rates; Violence at the Car Dealership; The Loss of Consumer Protection ; More EV Makers Go BrokeDrop me a text and let me know what you think of this episode!Join us for a riveting discussion about the current state of electric vehicles and the automotive industry on the latest episode of TechMobility Show. This week, we tackle pressing issues such as Dubuque's staggering 50% increase in public EV charging rates—an issue that has recently sparked widespread conversations among EV drivers and potential buyers. Learn about the implications of this price hike as we dive deep into factors driving this change, including a dramatic 128% rise in public charging usage. We also take a cl...2025-02-2544 minThe TechMobility PodcastRacing into the Future: Volkswagen's U.S. Play, Volvo's SUV, and Autonomous Trucking TrendsDrop me a text and let me know what you think of this episode!Ever wondered if there's still room for new players in the crowded electric vehicle market? Join me, Ken Chester, as we explore Volkswagen's ambitious plans to bring the Cupra brand to the U.S. by 2030. We'll dive into the challenges they face, from legal hurdles with existing dealers to the strategic decisions of direct sales versus a franchise model. Along the way, you'll hear about my journey in the Entrepreneur of Impact competition, where your support is vital to help me reach the...2025-02-1843 minThe TechMobility PodcastMidwest's Renewable Energy Revolution, Smart Traffic Systems' State Initiatives, and Harbinger Motors' Bold EV ChallengeDrop me a text and let me know what you think of this episode!Get ready to explore the intersection of technology, energy, and mobility in this exciting episode. Discover the untapped potential of Midwest farmland as we discuss how renewable energy sources like wind and solar can transform traditional agricultural landscapes into profitable energy hubs. Learn how farmers are navigating market volatility and weather challenges by repurposing less productive lands for solar farms, and understand the critical factors such as developer reliability and tax implications that are essential for making informed decisions in this burgeoning sector.2025-02-1843 minThe TechMobility PodcastPorsche & Audi's American Manufacturing Pivot, AI Drones' Military Impact, L.A.'s Rebuilding Efforts, and DeepSeek's AI DisruptionDrop me a text and let me know what you think of this episode!Support the showBe sure to tell your friends to tune in to The TechMobility Podcast! 2025-02-1044 min