

Ride the Lightning: Tesla and EV Podcast
Ryan McCaffrey
Ride the Lightning: The Tesla Unofficial Podcast is the world's longest-running weekly Tesla show, made for Tesla fans and owners by Tesla community veteran Ryan McCaffrey. Each week we'll discuss and analyze everything happening with the Cybertruck, Model 3, Model S, Model X, Model Y, Roadster, and more!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 4, 2026 • 1h 39min
Episode 583: Model 3 Gets Better and Supercharging Gets Safer
Tesla’s Roadster re-reveal hits another weather delay, while new patents hint at wild active-aero and fan-car technology. The Model 3 receives performance, range, and interior upgrades, and Supercharging gains an emergency escape feature. Also covered: strong Q3 deliveries, Cybertruck sales questions, delayed European FSD approval, and listener reports on Tesla service and maintenance.

5 snips
Sep 27, 2026 • 1h 41min
Episode 582: Tesla Semi Rolls Out + Another Roadster Teaser
Tesla’s long-awaited Semi finally rolls into production, showcasing major range, charging, efficiency, and manufacturing upgrades. The Roadster re-reveal sparks wild speculation about fan-assisted ground effects and subsecond acceleration. Also covered: Grok’s expanding in-car assistant powers, FSD 14.2 Lite for older hardware, improved Sentry Mode, a million-kilometer Model S taxi, and Cybercab ride impressions.

4 snips
Sep 20, 2026 • 1h 47min
Episode 581: Tesla Roadster Re-Reveal FINALLY Announced
Tesla finally sets a date for the next-generation Roadster’s dramatic re-reveal, with clues pointing to a possible thruster demonstration and major design changes. Also covered: Cybertruck’s latest engineering tweaks, firsthand impressions of the spacious Model Y L, insurance discounts tied to supervised FSD, accessibility ideas for older drivers, and clever climate-control tips.

Sep 13, 2026 • 1h 37min
Episode 580: Cybercab Launch Follow-Ups + Lots of Good Model Y News
Cybercab follow-ups examine its rider experience, unusual controls, speed behavior, feature requests, and a federal certification audit. Tesla’s refreshed Model Y scores a major safety win, while the Model YL beats range estimates. Cybertruck finally gains Powerwall 3 home backup, Tesla’s Gulf Coast lithium refinery starts production, and automatic collision evasion sparks debate.

6 snips
Sep 6, 2026 • 2h 20min
Episode 579: Cybercab Launch Event Recap – I Was There and I Rode in the Cybercab!
Greg Canessa, the Xbox Live Arcade pioneer and longtime Tesla enthusiast, joins a firsthand recap from Tesla’s Cybercab launch in Austin. They share multiple autonomous rides, assess the clean-sheet design, lounge-like interior, interface, accessibility, and ride quality, and debate Tesla’s path from robotaxi fleets to private ownership. They also explore Starlink-powered travel, FSD on New Jersey roads, and the future of autonomy.

5 snips
Aug 30, 2026 • 1h 41min
Episode 578: Tesla Announces Another Big Event…But Not for the Roadster
A new September product event is announced, but it is not the next-gen Roadster. Coverage includes a price hike for the Cybertruck and why buyers should care. Deep dive into Genesis’s new flagship EV with luxe features. Big recall news in China and a surprising solar roof discontinuation also make the headlines.

7 snips
Aug 23, 2026 • 1h 21min
Episode 577: Cybercab's Official Launch Date Confirmed
A confirmed September 3, 2026 CyberCab launch in Austin gets teased along with details about a robo‑taxi lottery and permit approvals. Big Tesla fleet moves show up: a 500‑unit Semi order and a new certified pre‑owned sales program. Charging news includes a 64‑stall Queens Supercharger, Austin robo‑taxi hubs, and a slip in J.D. Power rankings for charging satisfaction.

4 snips
Aug 16, 2026 • 1h 29min
Episode 576: The First Starlink-Equipped Tesla Is Born
Tesla unveils its first vehicle with Starlink built in for reliable connectivity. New Roadster teases and delivery delays spark debate. Elon hints at flying-car tech and a possible thruster demo. Massive 124‑stall V4 Supercharger planned for San Francisco. Boring Company shows a remote‑piloted Liner Truck using Model 3 packs. California rebate drama and Project Crystal Sun solar factory plans round out the news.

11 snips
Aug 9, 2026 • 1h 57min
Episode 575: FSD Max Speed vs. FSD Speed Profiles
Discussion about Tesla removing user control over maximum FSD speed and the backlash from owners. Updates on Cybertruck supplier issues and short-term production effects. Debate around V14 Lite, speed profiles replacing max speed, and reports of HW3 overheating. News on Ford’s new affordable electric pickup and Zoox getting approval for driverless robotaxis.

9 snips
Aug 2, 2026 • 1h 41min
Episode 574: Model 3 and Model Y Will Soon Get a Bit "Cooler"
News about Model 3 and Model Y getting an upgraded actively cooled wireless charging pad that should make riders happier. Tesla reaches its ten millionth vehicle milestone. A supplier dispute threatens Cybertruck parts and tooling. Rivian posts surprising profit progress and strong interest in the R2.


