THIS CAR POD! with Doug DeMuro & Friends!
Episode: Driving the Valkyrie was Crazy! Ferrari and GM Partnering? Lamborghini Says NO to EV
Release Date: December 20, 2024
1. Honoring Gene Jennings [01:07]
The episode opens with Doug DeMuro paying tribute to the late Gene Jennings, a legendary figure in automotive journalism. Gene Jennings, who served as the editor-in-chief of Automobile magazine, significantly influenced Doug’s career.
Doug DeMuro [01:08]:
“Jean Jennings is responsible for a lot of the beginnings of my illustrious career... She had a huge direct relationship on, you know, where I am today in the beginnings of my career.”
Doug recounts how in 2009, he reached out to Automobile magazine with his car spotting hobby. Gene Jennings responded, leading to his feature in the July 2009 issue—a pivotal moment that set the stage for his entry into car journalism.
Kenneth [03:32]:
“It's such a cool butterfly effect story. That's really neat.”
2. Porsche Carrera GT Tire Recall and Performance Enhancement [04:43]
The discussion shifts to the Porsche Carrera GT, focusing on its recent recall and the introduction of new Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires.
Doug DeMuro [05:01]:
“Porsche is giving everybody new tires now. Porsche specifically developed a new tire for the Carrera GT... they beat their previous time with the original tires set back when the car was new by 20 seconds just with tires.”
A German publication, Sport Auto, tested the Carrera GT with the new tires around the Nürburgring, achieving lap times faster than the renowned Porsche 918 Spyder. Doug emphasizes the significance of tire technology in enhancing performance.
Felipe [06:55]:
“I am kind of curious.”
The conversation explores the potential for older cars to benefit from modern tire advancements, sparking curiosity about future performance tests across various classic models.
3. Nissan’s Potential Merger Talks [12:50]
Felipe introduces news about Nissan entering merger discussions, possibly with Honda, to form the third-largest automobile manufacturer globally.
Felipe [12:54]:
“There have been a lot of reports that they are talking about a merger... They should apparently be entering into a memorandum of understanding this week.”
Doug and Kenneth discuss the inevitability of consolidation in the automotive industry amid rising competition from Tesla, startups, and Chinese manufacturers.
Doug DeMuro [14:06]:
“It's just scale. I do think it's interesting that Nissan is going down this road after the Renault thing... Now they're.”
The dialogue highlights the strategic importance of such mergers for legacy automakers to stay competitive in the evolving EV market.
4. Lamborghini’s Stance on Electric Vehicles [18:22]
Lamborghini announces a delay in their EV production plans, pushing back the release of their electric models to 2029.
Doug DeMuro [18:22]:
“I think this news story, I'm just like, hell yeah.”
Kenneth and Felipe express their perspectives, with Doug supporting Lamborghini’s decision to prioritize performance and brand identity over premature electrification.
Kenneth [18:58]:
“I think there is less of an interest in the plug-in stuff. But they are doing okay.”
The hosts discuss the broader implications for high-performance sports cars and the importance of maintaining the visceral driving experiences that enthusiasts cherish.
5. Ferrari and GM Partnership in Formula One [23:34]
Ferrari announces its intention to supply engines to the Cadillac Formula One team starting in 2026. However, Cadillac has yet to receive approval from the FIA to compete.
Kenneth [23:50]:
“You have to go through... it gets very political.”
Doug reflects on the challenges and strategic maneuvers involved in entering Formula One, questioning the alignment between Cadillac's brand identity and Ferrari's engineering prowess.
Doug DeMuro [24:35]:
“I don't understand what... So it wants to be in the F1 so badly that they are going to have to engine built by another manufacturer.”
The segment examines the complexities of such partnerships and their potential impact on American automotive presence in international racing.
6. Driving the Aston Martin Valkyrie [29:06]
In the "Talk Cars" segment, Doug shares his intense driving experience with the Aston Martin Valkyrie.
Doug DeMuro [33:58]:
“Driving a Formula one car because it's like, you've never driven. You wouldn't know.”
He describes the Valkyrie as an "absolute visceral insanity," highlighting its extreme performance characteristics and the challenges of maneuvering such a high-performance vehicle.
Felipe [35:05]:
“Nobody knows what it's like.”
The trio debates the unique appeal of hypercars like the Valkyrie compared to traditional sports cars, emphasizing the emotional connection enthusiasts have with raw, powerful machines.
7. Market Report: Lotus Evora and Lucid Air Sapphire [46:14]
Felipe and Kenneth discuss trends in the used car market, focusing on the declining prices of models like the Lotus Evora and the stability of the Lucid Air Sapphire.
Doug DeMuro [46:56]:
“I can't imagine that a 2010 with 23,000 miles and a manual gets too much cheaper than 36.”
They analyze how certain cars retain value due to their reliability and desirability, while others become bargains as their depreciations plateau.
Kenneth [47:35]:
“No, but I mean it car, you know, the electronic system fails and strands you somewhere.”
Concerns about the reliability of specific models like the Lotus Evora are discussed, balancing the appeal of lower costs against potential maintenance issues.
8. Q&A Segment [53:26]
The hosts engage with audience questions, sharing anecdotes and insights into the challenges and humorous situations they've encountered in the automotive world.
Rodney's Question [53:56]:
“... what were the craziest buyers and sellers that you've had to deal with...”
Doug and Felipe recount unusual experiences, such as lawsuits from disgruntled buyers and unexpected damages to press cars, underscoring the unpredictable nature of the automotive market.
Kenneth [54:33]:
“...some of the buyers remorse was some of my favorite...”
They emphasize the importance of due diligence for buyers and the occasional absurdity that comes with high-stakes car transactions.
9. Closing Remarks and Upcoming Episodes [67:03]
Doug wraps up the episode by teasing next week's special Christmas episode, which will focus on audience questions and feature a special guest.
Doug DeMuro [67:19]:
“That's our podcast. It was the finest one we've ever done. Thank you for tuning in.”
The episode concludes with friendly farewells and a reminder to join future discussions on automotive trends and enthusiast experiences.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps
-
Doug DeMuro [01:08]:
“Jean Jennings is responsible for a lot of the beginnings of my illustrious career... She had a huge direct relationship on, you know, where I am today in the beginnings of my career.” -
Doug DeMuro [05:01]:
“Porsche is giving everybody new tires now. Porsche specifically developed a new tire for the Carrera GT... they beat their previous time with the original tires set back when the car was new by 20 seconds just with tires.” -
Felipe [12:54]:
“There have been a lot of reports that they are talking about a merger... They should apparently be entering into a memorandum of understanding this week.” -
Doug DeMuro [18:22]:
“I think this news story, I'm just like, hell yeah.” -
Kenneth [23:50]:
“You have to go through... it gets very political.” -
Doug DeMuro [33:58]:
“Driving a Formula one car because it's like, you've never driven. You wouldn't know.” -
Doug DeMuro [46:56]:
“I can't imagine that a 2010 with 23,000 miles and a manual gets too much cheaper than 36.” -
Kenneth [54:33]:
“No, but I mean it car, you know, the electronic system fails and strands you somewhere.” -
Doug DeMuro [67:19]:
“That's our podcast. It was the finest one we've ever done. Thank you for tuning in.”
This comprehensive summary encapsulates the episode's key discussions, insights, and memorable moments, providing a clear and engaging overview for both regular listeners and newcomers alike.