Podcast Summary: The Smoking Tire – "Why Giants Drove a Beetle; A Correction; R8 vs AMG GT"

Release Date: May 29, 2025
Hosts: Matt Farah and Zach Klapman
Episode Title: Why Giants Drove a Beetle; A Correction; R8 vs AMG GT

1. Correction on Volkswagen ID Buzz Window Functionality

Timestamp: 03:11

In this segment, Matt clarifies a previous misunderstanding regarding the Volkswagen ID Buzz's window controls. Initially believing the vehicle couldn't be driven comfortably with windows partially open, Matt admits, "I have to issue an update slash correction [...] it's possible." The hosts discuss how opening the rear windows to exactly 50% allows for a buffer-free highway drive, albeit with the inconvenience that any front window adjustment necessitates corresponding rear window movements.

Notable Quote:

• Matt Farah [03:11]: "Can drive without buffeting at up to normal highway speeds. [...] This is a vehicle that's meant for the windows down."

2. Personal Story: Matt's Dad and the Beetle Road Trip

Timestamp: 06:14

Matt shares an engaging family story about his father’s experience with the classic Volkswagen Beetle. Back in 1967, Matt's father and his two brothers, all over six feet tall, opted for the Beetle due to its affordability. They undertook a two-month European road trip before shipping the car to the United States. During their cross-country journey, the Beetle's engine began losing compression, leading to a vital engine rebuild in California. This Beetle served as the family car until an unfortunate crash occurred, after which Matt's father briefly used a Corvette.

Notable Quote:

• Matt Farah [09:54]: "Matt, it was the cheapest car that was a car."

3. Frustration with the Overuse of "Gated Manual" in Car Listings

Timestamp: 17:04

Zach expresses irritation over the redundant use of the term "gated manual" in car advertisements, especially on platforms like Instagram. He highlights that referring to manual transmissions as "gated" is unnecessary and repetitive, particularly since all manual cars inherently have a gated shifter.

Notable Quote:

• Matt Farah [17:04]: "You don't have to say it anymore. [...] It's just redundant."

4. Discussion on California EV Mandate and Tax Credits

Timestamp: 27:44

The hosts delve into the recent political developments impacting electric vehicles (EVs). They discuss how the Senate has effectively nullified California's aggressive EV mandate, which aimed for 20% EV adoption by 2035. Additionally, federal EV tax incentives, including the $7,500 credit and $4,000 used EV credit, have been eliminated. This shift has made EVs more expensive and potentially slowed their adoption rate.

Notable Quotes:

• Matt Farah [27:44]: "EV tax credits. House voted to get rid of them. [...] That's really fun."
• Matt Farah [30:14]: "EV incentives are now dead. So 7,500 federal tax credit, $4,000 used tax credit, dead."

5. Improvement in EV Road Tripping Infrastructure

Timestamp: 35:05

Despite the setbacks in policy, Matt shares positive advancements in EV infrastructure. He mentions software updates in his Porsche Taycan that now provide real-time charger availability, enhancing the practicality of long-distance EV travel. This evolution signifies significant progress in making EV road trips more feasible and less cumbersome for drivers.

Notable Quote:

• Matt Farah [35:05]: "With drastically improved infrastructure, drastically improved charge speeds, drastically improved real time charger availability data."

6. Venting about Policy Impacting EV Development

Timestamp: 33:06

Matt and Zach express frustration over the political maneuvers hindering EV progress. They critique the rollback of environmental initiatives as a hindrance to scientific and clean energy advancements. Matt emphasizes the importance of incentives in promoting EV adoption, stating, "Incentives work, [...] it's pure capitalism."

Notable Quote:

• Matt Farah [34:06]: "Like, no, let's not do progress. Like come on. Like let's not do science, let's not do clean energy."

7. Listener Q&A and Special Discussions

Timestamp: 49:42 - 71:53

The hosts address various listener questions, ranging from recommendations on building Porsche parts to opinions on automatic transmissions in traditionally manual-equipped cars. Zach discusses his positive experiences with modern automatic gearboxes, such as the ZF 8-speed found in BMWs, highlighting their smoothness and efficiency compared to older models.

Notable Quotes:

• Zach Klapman [71:53]: "The A7 is awesome. [...] the iPhone microphone is so good at compression and limiting and stuff."
• Matt Farah [55:34]: "They change the direction of the engine 90 degrees. [...] that's the only car where they've ever done that."

8. Comparative Analysis: Audi R8 vs AMG GT

Timestamp: 50:27 - 51:51

In response to a listener's query, Matt and Zach debate the merits of the early Audi R8 versus the AMG GT. While both are exceptional vehicles, Matt leans towards the R8 for its exotic appeal and superior driving feel, despite both models being equipped with automatic transmissions. They agree that the R8 offers a more prestigious presence and better steering dynamics.

Notable Quotes:

• Matt Farah [50:30]: "I'd probably rather have an early R8."
• Zach Klapman [51:21]: "I'd rather walk out and look at the R8 and drive the R8. The steering's better than the GT."

9. Future Topics and Closing Remarks

Timestamp: 72:15 - End

The episode concludes with hints at upcoming topics, including discussions on The Twin Turbo 911 powered Cayman and BGB Motorsports. Matt mentions submitting a detailed piece on touchscreens to Road and Track, indicating deeper dives into automotive technology in future episodes.

Notable Quote:

• Matt Farah [58:31]: "I've just submitted a piece to Road and Track this morning that I think is 2,200 words [...]"

Conclusion

This episode of The Smoking Tire navigates through corrections on technical aspects of the VW ID Buzz, dives into nostalgic personal stories, critiques current automotive marketing trends, and engages in a robust discussion on the current state and future of electric vehicles. Additionally, the hosts interact with their audience through insightful Q&A segments, providing expert opinions on various automotive topics. For enthusiasts seeking detailed and candid conversations about the automotive world, this episode offers a comprehensive and entertaining listen.