AI-powered
podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
The Vergecast
We can’t quit electric cars — or robotaxis
Feb 25, 2025
Transportation reporter Andy Hawkins shares insights on the current shift in the electric vehicle industry, spotlighting the slowing pace of EV production and the renewed interest in robotaxis. He discusses why legacy automakers are struggling to adapt, especially against the backdrop of rising competition from Chinese manufacturers. Meanwhile, Evan Prodromou reveals updates on the ActivityPub protocol and the evolution of the fediverse, discussing platforms like Mastodon and Bluesky, and sharing thoughts on the future of decentralized social networking.
01:16:38
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- The electric vehicle market is experiencing a downturn due to shifting governmental policies and struggling companies like Nikola, leading to skepticism about sustained demand.
- A renewed focus on robotaxis is evident, with companies like Uber and Lyft pivoting strategies despite previous technological challenges and failures in full autonomy.
Deep dives
Shift in Electric Vehicle Trends
The podcast discusses the current dynamics in the electric vehicle (EV) market, noting that there appears to be a decline in interest and sales of EVs. This shift correlates with a previous surge in support due to favorable government policies, which have now changed, leading to uncertainty in the market. Companies like Nikola, which demonstrated significant issues including fraudulent behavior, have struggled, culminating in bankruptcy. This environment suggests a reliance on positive governmental influence for the success of EVs, raising questions about the actual market demand for electric vehicles beyond regulatory support.
Get the Snipd
podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered
Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any
moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share
& Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered
podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode