Podcast Summary: The Smoking Tire – Episode Featuring Kyle Connor of Out of Spec Studios

Episode Details:

• Title: Kyle Conner - Out of Spec Studios
• Release Date: December 17, 2024
• Hosts: Matt Farah and Zack Klapman

1. Introduction to the Episode

In this episode of The Smoking Tire, hosts Matt Farah and Zack Klapman welcome Kyle Connor from Out of Spec Studios. Known for his extensive experience with automotive content and his involvement in multiple YouTube channels, Kyle brings valuable insights into the world of electric vehicles (EVs), focusing on both mainstream and Chinese automotive innovations.

2. Electric G-Wagon: Features and Criticisms

[02:30] Matt Farah: Kyle begins by critiquing the impractical design of the AirPods holder on the back of the electric G-Wagon.

Kyle Connor ([02:32]): "Dude, that is the dumbest."

The hosts discuss the vehicle's performance, highlighting impressive features such as full self-driving capabilities and adaptations for rugged off-road use. Despite its drawbacks, the electric G-Wagon stands out as an appealing option within the Mercedes lineup.

[05:27] Matt Farah:

"I think that it's not only my favorite G wagon, but it's the only appealing electric Mercedes at all."

However, the G-Wagon suffers from significant inefficiency, averaging 1.9 miles per kilowatt-hour, and a somewhat misleading range indicator that overestimates its actual mileage.

3. Battery Performance and Degradation

A noteworthy topic is a recent study suggesting that EV batteries may last longer than previously anticipated, challenging the commonly pessimistic views surrounding battery degradation.

[04:43] Matt Farah:

"There was a study that came out that said we've been testing batteries wrong and so they're all going to last longer than we thought they were, which is good, actually."

4. Chinese Electric Vehicles: Innovation and Quality Concerns

Kyle delves into the realm of Chinese EVs, discussing models like the Wuling Bingo and the Xiaomi SU7. These vehicles offer competitive pricing but come with varied quality and performance levels.

[23:00] Kyle Connor:

"A Wuling Bingo. Which is like, I think s. I... $8,000."

While the Wuling Bingo is praised for its affordability and basic functionality, its build quality raises safety concerns.

[26:50] Matt Farah:

"It looks like a Taycan. It's like, hey, chatgpt, make me a Taycan with a McLaren Artura nose on it and a Hyundai Ioniq or a Hyundai Elantra N S. Right. Give or take."

The Xiaomi SU7 is highlighted for its impressive design and features but is criticized for brake issues and software reliability.

5. Charging Infrastructure and Supercharger Challenges

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the challenges and advancements in EV charging infrastructure, particularly focusing on Tesla's Supercharger network and its integration with non-Tesla vehicles.

[49:42] Kyle Connor:

"Shit on stuff. There's a lot of cut clip now. There are a lot of problems with this NACS transition. Technically it's now called J3400."

The transition to the NACS (J3400) standard aims to unify charging plugs but introduces compatibility issues, especially concerning voltage standards and cable limitations.

[53:07] Matt Farah:

"But is EA gonna be forced to switch to the other cables?"

The hosts express concerns over the current Supercharger network's ability to handle high-voltage EVs, leading to premature derating and inefficient charging sessions for certain models.

6. Electric Vehicles on the Track vs. Daily Use

Matt and Kyle explore the disparity between how EVs perform on track days compared to their daily driving capabilities.

[80:59] Matt Farah:

"Funny enough though, at a track, it's not like that the fire, assuming the person gets out of the car, it's not like the fire is that likely to burn the whole place down."

Despite advanced engineering, EVs face restrictions at many tracks, primarily due to safety concerns related to battery fires and the lack of specialized training or equipment for electric car incidents.

7. Depreciation and Collectability of EVs

The discussion shifts to the financial aspects of EV ownership, particularly focusing on depreciation and the potential for EVs to become collector's items.

[85:17] Spencer's Question:

"Buying a depreciated EV that has lost a bunch of value since new is a great proposition, but does that bleeding ever stop?"

Kyle and Matt debate whether EVs will witness similar depreciation trends as traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles or carve out a unique space in the used car market. While some early models like the Tesla Roadster may hold their value, mass-market EVs are expected to depreciate significantly over time.

8. Leasing vs. Buying EVs

Exploring consumer choices, the hosts discuss the advantages of leasing EVs over purchasing, especially given the rapid pace of technological advancements and potential depreciation.

[43:44] Matt Farah:

"No, you have to act like you don't have to switch regrets yet."

Leasing offers flexibility and reduces the financial risk associated with rapid EV depreciation and technological obsolescence.

9. Listener Questions and Technical Insights

The episode addresses several listener-submitted questions, delving deeper into the technical nuances of EV performance, charging standards, and future prospects.

[84:56] Matt Farah:

"Do EVs ever feel analogous to could one offer the same driving experience as a Raud woods era vehicle? I think fundamentally no."

The hosts agree that while EVs excel in areas like torque and straight-line speed, replicating the nuanced driving experiences of classic ICE vehicles remains a challenge.

10. Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Wrapping up the episode, Matt and Kyle reiterate the importance of reliable charging infrastructure and the need for continued innovation to enhance the daily usability of EVs. They advocate for consumer awareness and prudent purchasing decisions, emphasizing the evolving landscape of electric mobility.

Notable Quotes:

• Kyle Connor ([09:10]): "No, no, I don't think they're coming back. And there's just... Trajectory is down. And that's a great thing as a consumer because those are incredible cars."

• Matt Farah ([52:12]): "All right. So we have an R1S right now, the Tri, the new one, which I was very excited to drive..."

• Kyle Connor ([99:38]): "Don't get any of these ones. We're going through this very weird period of EV and I'm not exactly sure how it's gonna turn out."

• Matt Farah ([73:02]): "But the quality here, other than the brakes, was incredible."

Key Takeaways:

• Design Critiques: While EVs like the electric G-Wagon offer impressive features, certain design elements may hinder functionality and user experience.

• Battery Longevity: Emerging studies suggest improved battery life, potentially addressing one of the primary concerns of EV ownership.

• Chinese EVs: Affordable yet varying in quality, Chinese electric models present both opportunities and challenges in the global market.

• Charging Infrastructure: Standardization issues and technical limitations of current Supercharger networks pose significant hurdles for widespread EV adoption.

• Depreciation Trends: Unlike some ICE vehicles, EVs are expected to depreciate rapidly, with only select models potentially retaining or increasing in value.

• Leasing Advantages: Leasing emerges as a favorable option for consumers wary of rapid technological shifts and depreciation in the EV market.

• Track Day Restrictions: Safety concerns and lack of infrastructure for EVs lead to their exclusion from many traditional track events, impacting their perception in performance circles.

This episode provides a comprehensive exploration of the current state and future prospects of electric vehicles, blending technical insights with practical considerations for consumers and enthusiasts alike.