Ride the Lightning: Tesla and EV Podcast

Ashok Eloswamy, head of Tesla AI driving Robotaxi and FSD progress. Elon Musk, CEO driving EVs, robotics, and AI compute strategy. They discuss Tesla Q2 highlights, Robotaxi safety and city rollout, Optimus training plans, supplier and chip roadmaps, Starlink-enabled CyberCab connectivity, and hands-on impressions of FSD v14 Lite on HW3.

Discussion of a wheelchair‑accessible autonomous vehicle Tesla may be developing. Progress toward public Cybercab rides and steering‑wheel‑less tests. Updates on regulatory recalls, Supercharger partnerships in Japan, and Lucid bankruptcy rumors. Listener calls on FSD quirks, Cybertruck tires, and service experiences.

Hands-on first impressions of FSD v14 Lite running on older Hardware 3 cars and how it compares to the newer AI4 system. A detailed look at parking, routing quirks, and seatbelt behavior observed during testing. News on a Model Y refrigerated cooler, California EV incentives, an affordable new US micro EV, and industry findings on EV satisfaction and tire microplastics.

Tesla confirms a new Model Y L for US deliveries this September. FSD v14 Lite begins rolling out to Hardware 3 cars. Tesla posts big Q2 production and delivery numbers and teases CyberCab and RoboTaxi developments. Reports surface of multiple battery shipment thefts. Rivian reveals clearer R2 reservation windows.

They discuss Tesla topping the list of cars made with the most American parts for the sixth year. Cybertruck getting a top safety rating and sightings of robotaxi tests. New affordable EV pickup pricing and delivery timelines. Industry shakeups including layoffs, model discontinuations, and battery production updates.

They discuss teased quality-of-life improvements for FSD Supervised like parking preferences and conversational controls. Apple CarPlay route-sharing and a lighter software release for older hardware are mentioned. Cybercab EPA specs and BMW’s quad-motor M3 concept get attention. There are updates on Rivian’s autonomy timeline and a Porsche Taycan refresh. Callers weigh in with real-world FSD questions.

New paint options and listener rankings spark a lively color showdown. A massive 96-stall Supercharger project and international rollout of FSD supervised make big infrastructure headlines. Surprising range test results for the Model 3 and Lucid's hands-free driving UX update grab attention. Compact EV arrivals, Rivian deliveries, and listener pro tips round out the conversation.

A deep dive into recent autonomous driving milestones, including global FSD developments, a coast-to-coast Canada FSD run, and Texas level-four self-certification. Coverage of Waymo’s next-gen Ojai rollout and fleet updates. Sighting reports hint at an extended-wheelbase Model Y coming to the US. Brief looks at regulation, vehicle concepts, and industry product shifts.

Rumors of a Tesla and SpaceX combination get unpacked and the complications explored. Starlink’s role in car connectivity and limits of retrofitting are debated. Tesla’s eye-like camera cleaning patent is highlighted. Ferrari’s new Luce EV and its polarizing reaction are discussed. Updates on Rivian R2 deliveries, Tesla factory plans, and owner-led reverse-engineering efforts round out the conversation.

Franz von Holzhausen, Tesla’s Chief Designer who shaped the Model S and X look, and Lars Moravy, Engineering VP who led vehicle engineering and programs, join to reflect on the S and X legacy. They discuss why discontinuation was chosen, redesign hurdles, the final Signature runs, drivetrain and cell evolution, Plaid+ cancellation, and Roadster plans.