

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

14 snips
Dec 7, 2025 • 1h 35min
Episode 540: Teslas Among Most Reliable Cars, Says Consumer Reports
Recent Consumer Reports place Tesla among the top ten most reliable car brands, highlighting impressive engineering advances. A Tesla executive hints at a new Robovan-based RV platform, while Rivian unveils a striking new purple paint color. The podcast also touches on Tesla's increasing presence in Austin's RoboTaxi market and Elon Musk's views on license FSD to other automakers. Additionally, listeners learn about a new camera hardware change and the importance of FSD features, along with tips on round-trip planning using Tesla’s navigation.

4 snips
Nov 30, 2025 • 1h 16min
Episode 539: Meet the Tesla Owner Who Loves Living Out of His Model X
In this episode, Carson Gallo, a former Tesla employee and president of the Tesla Owners Club of Florida, shares his intriguing life living out of his Model X for eight years. He discusses the challenges of van life, including hygiene routines and maintaining a network of charging stations in Florida. Carson reflects on the joy and freedom of combining his home and car while detailing his travel patterns and social life experiences. He also shares insights on Tesla’s features, community connections, and future EV dreams, all while showcasing the perks of this adventurous lifestyle.

12 snips
Nov 23, 2025 • 1h 21min
Episode 538: Tesla's AI5 Chip Delayed
Tesla's AI5 chip faces a production delay until mid-2027, raising questions for buyers and the Cybercab's launch. Meanwhile, Tesla sparks a legal battle against North Dakota's direct-sales ban. Porsche reveals an impressive new Cayenne EV, showcasing speed and charging capabilities. The podcast also touches on Mazda's upcoming EV plans, while listeners share their thoughts on Apple CarPlay's benefits. With insights into Tesla's shifting supply chain away from Chinese parts, this conversation drives the future of electric vehicles forward.

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.

37 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.

22 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.


