Autonocast

The discussion kicks off with a comedic take on outdated cars and vehicle preferences. It then dives into the regulatory tug-of-war between federal standards and local laws for autonomous vehicles. Listeners are treated to a nostalgic look at the revolutionary Porsche 928 and its legacy. The chat also contrasts the thrill of vintage cars with the conveniences of modern tech. Finally, there's an exploration of how Las Vegas is navigating transport challenges as it integrates new technologies, shedding light on the future of mobility.

Spring is buzzing in the autonomous vehicle scene! The unexpected shift of Sterling Anderson to GM has everyone talking. Waymo and Zoox face recalls, sparking debates about safety and regulation. Tesla's Full Self-Driving tech is under scrutiny as the RoboTaxi initiative unfolds. Meanwhile, a surprising leadership change at Luminar raises eyebrows about ethics and market stability. The partnership between Toyota and Waymo promises advancements in safety while the Cadillac Celestique's future charm captures imaginations. It's a whirlwind of innovation and intrigue!

This week, the conversation heats up as Aurora makes waves with its driverless service and Waymo partners with Toyota. The hosts dive into the tangled narratives around Tesla and Uber, exploring how bold claims sometimes overshadow true progress. A lively dinner chat reveals how young consumers are reshaping car ownership and embracing alternative vehicles. Witty exchanges about vintage cars add humor, while discussions about the future of urban mobility bring fresh insights into the evolving automotive landscape.

Before co-founding the medium duty electric truck startup Harbinger, John Harris lived through some of the wildest highs and lows of the post-Tesla EV startup bubble. On this week's episode, he explains how lessons learned from those experiences shaped Harbinger, why medium-duty trucks are so ripe for electrification, how tariffs are creating new challenges, and much more.

The hosts dive into Wayve's partnership with Nissan and Kodiak's SPAC move, sparking lively discussion about the future of the autonomous vehicle sector. They share personal mishaps and humorous tales of classic car troubles, revealing the hidden costs of ownership. The conversation also touches on Tesla's competitiveness against Lucid Motors while addressing the implications of China's ban on 'self-driving' terminology. With insights into electric vehicles and the anticipated Tesla Roadster, the blend of humor and critical analysis keeps it engaging.

Reilly Brennan, the godfather of the Autonocast and general partner at Trucks VC, discusses the transformative landscape of autonomous vehicles and robotaxis. He shares insights on the evolution of mobility investments over the past decade, highlighting challenges and major events that shaped the industry. The conversation dives into the competitive dynamics between established firms and startups, emerging AI innovations, and surprising takes on Tesla. Brennan also explores the future of autonomous transport and unique strategies from companies like Zoox.

Gabe Sgagna, VP of Commercial Growth at Forterra, dives into the future of robotics in defense and logistics. He discusses the evolution of ground autonomy solutions and the importance of minimizing human risk in dangerous tasks. The conversation also covers the unique blend of military innovation with civilian logistics, emphasizing veterans in leadership roles. Gabe highlights the potential of automation in port operations, tackling job displacement concerns, and even touches on the ethics of autonomy through a fun lens of the Terminator universe.

Get ready for a wild ride! The hosts share personal adventures with Waymo rides and unique e-bikes, mixing humor and insights. They dive into the cultural divide among vehicle owners during protests, and the joys of solo driving, including tales of quirky classic cars. E-bikes and innovative safety features steal the spotlight, along with exciting discussions about the future of robotaxis and Tesla's plans in Austin. Finally, regulations for autonomous vehicles heat up the debate, leaving you eager for what's next in transportation!

Raquel Urtasun, Founder of Waabi and former head of research at Uber's Advanced Technology Group, discusses her innovative approach to self-driving trucks. She shares insights on Level 4 autonomy and the challenges of developing a single AI system. The conversation touches on breakthroughs in AI, the importance of realistic simulations for safety, and the essential collaboration needed in the industry. Raquel also addresses gender challenges in tech and shares her bold predictions for the future of autonomous trucking by 2025.

With Kirsten traveling for work, Ed and Alex get back to the topic that they've been tussling over since this podcast began: Tesla and Elon Musk. Of course, that topic has evolved considerably lately, so buckle up.