Podcast Summary: THIS CAR POD! with Doug DeMuro & Friends!

Episode: Porsche Kills the 718! China Crushes Tesla! Doug on BMW’s Ugly Redemption Arc!
Release Date: May 30, 2025

1. Nissan's New GTR Concept and Financial Concerns

The episode kicks off with a discussion about Nissan's rumored next-generation GTR. Doug DeMuro expresses skepticism about the significance of this news, highlighting Nissan's financial struggles.

• Doug DeMuro [00:09]: "I don't find this to be a big news story because they haven't announced the car, they haven't told us what it's going to be, et cetera."
• Filippo [01:06]: "They need $700 million and so what can you do? You sell that because you got to employ some people to work on a gtr."

The conversation touches on Nissan's financial priorities, questioning why resources are being allocated to developing a new GTR amidst broader financial issues.

2. Volkswagen Shifts EV Naming Strategy

The hosts delve into Volkswagen's decision to abandon the ID naming convention for their electric vehicles, opting instead for more traditional names.

• Kenneth [02:18]: "Volkswagen announced this week that they are going to stop using the ID naming convention for their electric cars."
• Filippo [04:16]: "What else could they do? Haboob. What about Haboob?"

They discuss the challenges automakers face in naming EVs and speculate on potential new names, emphasizing the shift back to conventional naming structures.

3. Porsche's End of the 718 Boxster and Cayman

A significant portion of the episode focuses on Porsche's decision to end production of the 718 Boxster and Cayman models, with implications for their EV future.

• Kenneth [04:48]: "We've confirmed that they're going to end production later this year in October. This year will be the end of production for the 718 model line."
• Doug DeMuro [09:02]: "It's sad from an enthusiast perspective that a gas sports car is replaced by an EV1."

The hosts express disappointment over the gap in Porsche's lineup due to the delayed release of their EV successor, raising concerns about the brand's direction and market demand for EVs.

4. BYD Surpasses Tesla in European EV Sales

A major highlight is BYD's achievement in surpassing Tesla in European electric vehicle sales, signaling a shift in the EV market dynamics.

• Kenneth [10:25]: "BYD for the first time has outsold Tesla across Europe."
• Filippo [13:25]: "Yes, undeniably."

They analyze factors contributing to BYD's success, including competitive pricing, a diverse EV lineup, and Tesla's declining sales due to product age and lack of new models tailored to the European market.

5. Impact of US EV Tax Credit Changes

The conversation shifts to the potential removal of EV tax credits in the US and its implications for EV adoption and market growth.

• Doug DeMuro [16:31]: "If you could, what would you do?"
• Kenneth [17:09]: "A large part of EV adoption was the tax credit of just $7,500."

The hosts debate how the elimination of these incentives could slow EV sales, affect consumer purchasing decisions, and influence American automakers' investment in electric technologies.

6. General Motors' Investment in V8 Engines

GM's recent investment of $888 million in updating a V8 engine factory near Buffalo, NY, is examined, highlighting the continued relevance of V8 engines in the modern automotive landscape.

• Kenneth [20:36]: "GM is still investing in the next generation V8."
• Doug DeMuro [21:09]: "Trump can save V8."

They discuss whether this investment is a sign of GM's commitment to traditional powertrains amidst the EV revolution and speculate on the motivations behind choosing Buffalo for this expansion.

7. Stellantis Appoints New CEO

The episode covers Stellantis' announcement of Antonio Filosa as their new CEO, following mixed reactions from the market.

• Filippo [22:32]: "He looks thrilled."
• Doug DeMuro [23:16]: "They didn't do anything to make their CEOs popular."

The hosts reflect on Filosa's background and potential impact on Stellantis, noting dealer dissatisfaction and the challenges of revitalizing a major automotive conglomerate.

8. BMW M2 CS: A New Powerhouse

A segment is dedicated to the new BMW M2 CS, highlighting its impressive specifications and the excitement it brings to enthusiasts, despite the lack of a manual transmission.

• Filippo [25:00]: "It's 523 horsepower... going to be very tail happy and probably a handful to drive."
• Doug DeMuro [26:20]: "It's a shame that it's no stick though."

The discussion praises the M2 CS's performance enhancements and weight reductions, while lamenting the absence of a manual gearbox, which is a valued feature among driving purists.

9. Personal Stories and Track Experiences

Beyond news, the hosts share personal anecdotes about track driving experiences, emphasizing the importance of practical driving skills and safety.

• Kenneth [36:33]: "I rewatched the video like the final edited video this morning. I want to do two speed takeaways."
• Filippo [38:13]: "Track driving teaches you the dynamics of a car."

These stories add a relatable and engaging element to the podcast, illustrating the hosts' passion for driving and continuous learning.

10. Market Report Highlights

The episode features a detailed market report discussing unique vehicles sold on Cars and Bids, including a GMC Top Kick and the rarity of Porsche tractors.

• Doug DeMuro [49:08]: "We sold a GMC Top Kick for only $58,000."
• Filippo [54:07]: "Porsche tractors are still really hot."

The hosts analyze unconventional sales, the appeal of utility vehicles, and the niche market for vintage and unique automotive memorabilia.

11. Listener Questions and Open Discussions

In the final segments, the hosts address listener questions covering topics from supercar shooting brake designs to the lack of Cadillac wagon models.

• Doug DeMuro [65:49]: "Any supercar."
• Filippo [66:25]: "Well, I mean the Ferrari DOD seems like a good."

They provide thoughtful insights and personal opinions, fostering an interactive and informative environment for listeners.

Notable Quotes:

• Doug DeMuro [00:09]: "I don't find this to be a big news story because they haven't announced the car, they haven't told us what it's going to be, et cetera."
• Filippo [04:16]: "What else could they do? Haboob. What about Haboob?"
• Kenneth [10:25]: "BYD for the first time has outsold Tesla across Europe."
• Doug DeMuro [16:31]: "If you could, what would you do?"
• Filippo [25:00]: "It's 523 horsepower... going to be very tail happy and probably a handful to drive."
• Doug DeMuro [49:08]: "We sold a GMC Top Kick for only $58,000."
• Filippo [54:07]: "Porsche tractors are still really hot."

Conclusion:

This episode of THIS CAR POD! with Doug DeMuro & Friends! offers a comprehensive overview of current automotive trends, market shifts, and personal engagements with cars. From Nissan's uncertain direction to BYD's European dominance over Tesla, and BMW's latest performance upgrades, the hosts provide insightful analysis backed by engaging discussions and personal experiences. Enthusiasts will find valuable takeaways on the evolving car landscape, while newcomers gain a thorough understanding of the key issues shaping the automotive world in 2025.