

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

17 snips
Nov 16, 2025 • 1h 21min
Episode 537: Apple CarPlay Reportedly Coming to Teslas
Tesla is reportedly gearing up to integrate Apple CarPlay in its vehicles, sparking excitement among fans. The company topped the global EV sales charts for September with its Model Y and Model 3. Ford's CEO expressed surprise at the insights gained from dismantling a Tesla Model 3, hinting at shifts in their EV strategy. Additionally, Volkswagen will allow its ID.4 and ID.Buzz models to use Tesla Superchargers, expanding charging options for EV owners. Meanwhile, strong demand and loyalty for EVs persist post-tax credit.

31 snips
Nov 9, 2025 • 1h 49min
Episode 536: Tesla Shareholder Meeting Recap, Highlights, and Analysis (2025)
Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, shares insights from the 2025 Tesla shareholder meeting. He unveils plans for rapid production of the Optimus robot, aiming for $20,000 per unit. Musk discusses the ambitious Robotaxi timeline and announces new markets like Las Vegas and Miami. Tesla's energy strategy, focusing on solar and MegaPack developments, is outlined. He also touches on advancements in AI chip design and the re-reveal of the next-generation Roadster, which promises to be an exhilarating event for fans.

Nov 2, 2025 • 1h 16min
Episode 535: A Cybercab…With a Steering Wheel? It Could Happen
Tesla sparks intrigue by suggesting the Cybercab could come with a steering wheel and pedals if needed by regulators. A potential December 11th reveal for the next-gen Roadster is speculated, backed by job postings indicating progress. The San Jose airport approves Tesla's robo-taxi service, expanding its reach and data collection. Rivian announces an Autonomy Day, and discussions around autonomous vehicles heat up, including the strategic partnership between Lucid and NVIDIA. Plus, early impressions of FSD version 14 provide interesting insights into its quirks.

33 snips
Oct 26, 2025 • 1h 48min
Episode 534: Tesla Q3 Earnings Call Highlights and Analysis
Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, shares insights into Tesla's strategic future. He discusses the ambitious timelines for deploying robotaxis and the demand for Megapacks as energy storage booms. Musk reveals developments on AI advancements and the technical hurdles in bringing the Optimus robot to market. He also touches on Tesla’s projected production targets, updates on the Cybertruck, and the strong demand for Tesla’s solar panels. This captivating conversation highlights Tesla's innovative direction and challenges ahead.

19 snips
Oct 19, 2025 • 1h 30min
Episode 533: Special Guest: Franz von Holzhausen (Yes, Again!)
Franz von Holzhausen, Tesla's Chief Designer, shares insights on his pivotal role in shaping Master Plan Part 4. He dives into the excitement around Tesla's future vehicle offerings, highlighting innovative designs and the evolution towards full autonomy. Franz discusses rare paint colors like Signature Red and Glacier Blue, sharing the challenges behind them. He also touches on the anticipated next-gen Roadster's driving experience, and the design goals behind the Model Y. Plus, he emphasizes the importance of shareholder voting in supporting Tesla's strategic vision.

12 snips
Oct 12, 2025 • 1h 36min
Episode 532: Cheaper Model Y and Model 3 Officially Revealed
Tesla has unveiled new, more affordable versions of the Model Y and Model 3, sparking excitement among potential buyers. The Model Y Standard features an impressive range but lacks basic Autopilot, raising safety concerns. Meanwhile, Lucid celebrates record deliveries while Nissan halts its US EV plans. GM relaunches the Chevy Bolt with promising specs at a competitive price. Plus, listener feedback reveals Tesla's FSD interacting awkwardly with school bus stops, leaving us pondering the implications for safe driving.

11 snips
Oct 5, 2025 • 1h 37min
Episode 531: Tesla's Monster Q3 Numbers Are In
Tesla has shattered its delivery records just as the federal EV tax credit is fading. The newly launched Model Y Performance comes with exciting features, like vehicle-to-load capabilities. Insider leaks hint at a more affordable Model Y Standard, set at $39,990. Interesting metrics reveal Tesla's Supercharger stations served a remarkable number of burgers! There's also speculation about Q4 trends and potential price changes. Plus, listeners weigh in on everything from color theories to winter settings, making for a lively discussion.

16 snips
Sep 28, 2025 • 1h 20min
Episode 530: What Panasonic's Next-Gen Battery Means for Tesla
Panasonic is developing an innovative battery cell that could significantly enhance Tesla's vehicle performance. Exciting updates about a more affordable Model Y are emerging, alongside Nissan's decision to withdraw the Ariya from the US market. The podcast also touches on Tesla's refreshed referral program and the expected rollout of Full Self-Driving version 14. Additionally, listeners share personal experiences with Tesla's new features and discuss ideas for improving supercharger functionality.

15 snips
Sep 21, 2025 • 1h 29min
Episode 529: Elon Musk Gives FSD v14 and AI5 Updates
Elon Musk shares exciting updates on FSD v14 and the powerful AI5 chip. Evidence suggests the Model 3 may soon feature a front bumper camera and a new turn signal stalk. Rivian makes headlines by breaking ground on a new assembly plant in Georgia, while Tesla faces challenges like a teen's failed road test. Listeners share valuable tips about seat maintenance and FSD troubleshooting. Plus, there's an enticing giveaway for a DIY wrap kit for Tesla models!

Sep 14, 2025 • 1h 32min
Episode 528: Robotaxi Gearing Up to Launch in 2 More States
Tesla is gearing up to launch its Robotaxi service in Arizona and Nevada. Exciting news comes with a new pilot program making non-Tesla chargers more accessible for owners. The podcast discusses the scarcity of the long-range rear-wheel drive Cybertruck, alongside features for enhanced EV charging. Listener experiences with Full Self-Driving spark interesting conversations, while a new achievement system aims to boost customer engagement. Innovations in Tesla's color options, along with the competitive EV market landscape, highlight ongoing developments in the industry.


