Runtime 8:13

Porsche’s made boatloads of money off of its Cayenne, and now the German automaker is coming out with a smaller SUV called the Cajun.  Naval researchers have figured out how to modify a radar gun to detect suicide bombers . . . and underwire bras!  Chrysler is joining the “ratio race” by announcing plans to introduce an eight-speed automatic transmission.  All that and more, plus a review of the brand-new Volvo S60.

»Subscribe to Podcast | | | | Listen on Phone

continue reading »

Runtime 8:59

General Motors’ IPO was the largest one in history and the U.S. government’s ownership in the company is now down to 33 percent. Indian automaker Mahindra is in a dispute with its U.S. distributor about shipping its small diesel pickup to America. The EPA releases its official fuel-economy numbers for the Chevy Volt. All that and more, plus a look at the new Chrysler 200.

»Subscribe to Podcast | | | | Listen on Phone

continue reading »

Runtime 7:31

Electric-vehicle fast-chargers are apparently to blame for causing electrical-grid issues, and according to GM, they can also reduce battery life.  Opel is getting itself reclassified as a corporation — AG in German — instead of a limited-liability company — GmbH — to raise money.  GM introduced a new electronic logo on top of its Detroit, Michigan headquarters.  All that and more, plus John responds to your questions and comments in the “You Said It!” segment.

»Subscribe to Podcast | | | | Listen on Phone

continue reading »

Runtime 8:12

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency certified the Nissan LEAF at 99 miles per gallon — 2.3 liters per 100 kilometers — on a combined driving-cycle.  GM is rumored to be reintroducing the Holden Commodore in the U.S.  Even though the American auto bailouts are still controversial, a recent poll indicates that opposition to them is dropping.  All that and more, plus a look at a new type of EV charger.

»Subscribe to Podcast | | | | Listen on Phone

continue reading »

Runtime 8:00

Hyundai and Kia now sell more cars in Europe than Toyota and Lexus. Kia plans to start selling vehicles on eBay. Utility companies are finally admitting they’re worried that an influx of cars plugging into the grid may knock power out in some areas. All that and more, plus John shares his thoughts about the redesigned 2011 Dodge Journey.

»Subscribe to Podcast | | | | Listen on Phone

continue reading »

Runtime 8:30

A new study says the U.S. government bailouts of GM and Chrysler saved over a million jobs the past two years. Volkswagen plans to invest more than $70 billion in its automotive business over the next five years. General Motors will host open house events at all 54 of its U.S. manufacturing facilities and Aftersales parts warehouses by the end of next year. All that and more, plus a preview of this week’s Autoline Detroit with Laura Soave, the President and CEO of Fiat North America.

»Subscribe to Podcast | | | | Listen on Phone

continue reading »

Runtime 4:54

General Motors finally launched its initial public offering today. More news from the Los Angeles Auto Show: Toyota announced pricing for its plug-in Prius in Japan and Lotus announced it will build engines and body kits for the IndyCar racing series starting in 2012. All that and more, plus a look at Hyundai’s unique unveil of the all-new Elantra.

»Subscribe to Podcast | | | | Listen on Phone

continue reading »

Runtime 8:13

General Motors announced it will increase the amount of shares it plans to make available for its initial public offering. Cadillac unveiled what it calls the Urban Luxury Concept at the L.A. Auto Show and says it can get high fuel economy. Volkswagen unveiled an updated Eos in Los Angeles and it has a couple of distinct features. All that and more, plus John shares his thoughts on the new Ford Fiesta.

»Subscribe to Podcast | | | | Listen on Phone

continue reading »

Runtime 7:55

Carlos Ghosn made a bold prediction yesterday: Nissan/Renault plans to build 500,000 electric vehicles annually by the end of 2013.  The Chevy Camaro drops its top; GM unveiled the convertible version of its iconic muscle car.  New York City is holding a competition called the “Taxi of Tomorrow” to find the best purpose-built people mover.  All that and more, plus John critiques the design of the new 2011 Dodge Charger.

»Subscribe to Podcast | | | | Listen on Phone continue reading »

Runtime 8:17

According to Ward’s, year-over-year sales of medium- and heavy-duty trucks was up 5.2 percent in October. Traffic can be very annoying, but it gets maddening when other drivers drive past you and merge as late as possible, but a new report may have you thanking them. Before increasing its stake in Chrysler, Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne told analysts it may sell part of its ownership in Ferrari. All that and more, plus a sneak peek of the big reveals you can expect at the LA Auto Show later this week.

»Subscribe to Podcast | | | | Listen on Phone continue reading »