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https://traffic.libsyn.com/thebeerreport/TW_102_Full.mp3Welcome to the automotive podcast that singing the blues in our Little Deuce Coupes. (R.I.P. Brian Wilson)

On this episode of Throwin’ Wrenches…

Suzuki Jimnys are sold out for the next 3 1/2 years, but not here in the US
Volvo has a museum. Who wants to go?
Lordstown Motors: You thought they were gone, but they still find a way onto this episode

Our SponsorsAs always, we’d like to give special thanks to Fort’s Toyota of Pekin

In addition to the fine folks at Fort’s, our Patreon supporters help keeping the wrenches flying. Thank you!

Episode HighlightsSuzuki NewsSuzuki’s Jimny 5-door is so popular in Japan that they’ve suspended orders after just four days, creating a 3.5-year backlog with 50,000 orders and only 1,200 units per month production capacity.

Volvo NewsWe explore the newly opened World of Volvo Museum in Gothenburg, celebrating the Swedish automaker’s 100-year history, and discuss GM’s massive $4 billion investment to move production from Mexico back to US plants, including the shuttered Orion Assembly facility.

Car Culture

In tribute to the late Brian Wilson, we dive into how the Beach Boys shaped American car culture with classics like “Little Deuce Coupe” and “409,” plus Wilson’s surprising hit about a Honda scooter that introduced Americans to the Japanese brand.

Projects* Eric recalls his recent Iceland trip with Angela that involved driving on lava rock in a stripped-down Suzuki Jimny SUV + He also prepares for some frame repairs on “Little Mule”, his 1996 Toyota Tacoma, using parts from Rustbuster.com * Daryl explains why he enjoys a Sunday drive in his trouble-free ’55 Plymouth + He also considers thinning his car collection

Cars of the WeakEric1995 right-hand-drive Suzuki Jimny – $15,995
Source: AutoTrader

You might say Eric was smitten by the Suzuki after he and Mrs. Stahl traveled across Iceland in one. Sure, it’s lacking a few creature comforts. Maybe the crash rating isn’t spectacular. And no, you can’t buy a new one here in the United States. That’s why he found a USED Japanese-market import to call his own.

He also found something that may replace “Little Mule” one far-off day. It rhymes with Mahindra.

Daryl2023 Lordstown Endurance EV Truck – $32,000
Source: Facebook Marketplace

What’s this? Why, it’s a barely-used 2023 Lordstown Endurance EV truck, of course. We’ve talked about Lordstown Motors quite a bit over the years but never actually seen one in the wild until now.

It’s hard to believe these didn’t take off.

Maybe that’s a good thing?

Get in TouchGot something that really grinds your gears? Let us know at info@throwinwrenches.com and we’ll be in touch.

The post Episode 102 – Beach Party Iceland appeared first on Throwin' Wrenches Automotive Podcast.

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https://traffic.libsyn.com/thebeerreport/TW_98.mp3Welcome to the automotive podcast that is sending you an audio Valentine.

On this episode of Throwin’ Wrenches…

Love is in the air, unless you drive a Nissan.
Mazda has a record year.
Got cargo? Rivian has you covered!

Thanks for listening. To join in on the fun of the show, just email us at info@throwinwrenches.com or post a review on itunes to be heard worldwide!

SponsorsSpecial thanks to Fort’s Toyota of Pekin for their ongoing support of our podcast. If you’re in the market for a new or used Toyota, or service, please give them a try!

We’d also like to thank our dedicated Patreon supporters and iTunes Premium supporters for helping to make this program possible.

World NewsNissan to Reject Honda Deal to Create World’s No. 3 AutomakerSource: Wall Street Journal

Nissan’s board has determined that Honda’s terms for a combination of the two automakers are unacceptable, people familiar with the matter said, endangering a merger plan designed to shore up Nissan’s faltering business. In a statement, Nissan said no decision had been reached but one option under discussion was scrapping its December agreement with Honda to aim for a merger. Both automakers said talks were continuing and they aimed to announce their direction in mid-February.

Source: The Wall Street Journal

National NewsUS Moves to Repeal Biden Administration Vehicle Fuel Economy StandardsSource: Reuters

New U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy signed an order on Tuesday directing U.S. regulators to rescind landmark fuel economy standards issued under President Joe Biden that aimed to drastically reduce fuel use for cars and trucks.

In a memo, Duffy directed the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to reconsider the 2022 model year through 2031 model years for cars and trucks.

The agency in June said it would hike Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) requirements to about 50.4 miles per gallon (4.67 liters per 100 km) by 2031 from 39.1 mpg currently for light-duty vehicles.

Duffy, who took office late Tuesday, also directed NHTSA to reconsider rules for heavy duty pickup trucks and vans through 2035.

“Artificially high fuel economy standards designed to meet non-statutory policy goals, such as those NHTSA has promulgated in recent years, impose large costs that render many vehicle models unaffordable for the average American family,” Duffy’s memo said. “They also put coercive pressure on automakers to phase out production of various models of popular (internal combustion engine) vehicles.”

Mazda Achieved Record Growth Last Year with Fewer DealersSource: Automotive News

Increased throughput across Mazda’s dealer network helped the Japanese automaker achieve its highest sales in nearly four decades. “Mazda is focused on pushing more sales through the current dealerships rather than trying to add on more dealers for growth,” Rob Sickel, chairman of the Mazda National Dealer Advisory Council, told Automotive News after the automaker held a virtual franchise meeting on Jan. 30. Mazda has 545 dealers in its network. In 2024, they sold an average of 669 vehicles, up from 625 in 2023. Sickel said 21 Mazda dealers topped sales of 2,000 vehicles last year.

Those Super Bowl Ads Won’t Pay For Themselves:Insurance Rates Are Up!Source:Auto Dealer Today

Car insurance rates are expected to continue to rise this year, though at a slower pace. Rates climbed 15% across the country last year and have jumped a cumulative 42% since 2022, according to insurance comparison-shopping website Insurify.

Insurify forecasts a 5% rate increase this year to a national average full-coverage rate of $2,435 by year-end.

South Carolina Blocks Scout Motors’ Direct Sales Despite $1.3B IncentiveSource: CBT News

Despite South Carolina granting Scout Motors $1.3 billion in incentives to build its $2 billion EV plant in Blythewood, state residents won’t be able to buy the company’s vehicles when they hit the market in 2027. Due to state laws prohibiting direct sales, even the 4,000 workers employed at the facility will have to go out of state to purchase a Scout EV.

Scout, owned by Volkswagen, has opted for a direct-to-consumer sales model, similar to Tesla and Lucid, aiming to provide a more transparent and cost-effective buying process. However, South Carolina is among the nearly 20 states that mandate vehicles to be sold exclusively through dealerships. Other states with similar restrictions include Texas, Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, and Kansas, while North Carolina allows direct sales.

Just So Everyone’s Clear: Scout And Rivian Are Not The SameSource: InsideEVs.com

What an age of miracles we find ourselves in. The internet is the greatest tool for disseminating information that humanity has ever created, but it also allows anybody to just instantly broadcast whatever is on their mind at any given moment, regardless of how true it is or not. That does lead to the occasional bit of misinformation that news outlets like InsideEVs must correct.

Since the recent debut of two new electric concepts from Scout Motors, the American truck and SUV brand revived by the Volkswagen Group, we have noticed more than a few comparisons drawn to another EV truck company: Rivian.

The comparisons are fair; Scout’s two concept vehicles bear a strong resemblance to Rivian’s first two vehicles, the R1T truck and R1S SUV. And the lines between the two brands are further blurred by the fact that the Volkswagen Group and Rivian have recently started working together.

While Scout and Rivian have similar designs and will probably compete for the same customer, and Scout will use the new electrical architecture that VW is co-developing with Rivian, the two vehicles and brands are not the same. They do not use the same platform, are built (or rather, will be built) in different places and should have considerably different price tags.

Auto Industry Bracing for Further Disruption in 2025, Experts Say

Source: Detroit Free Press

Tariff threats, affordability issues and electric vehicle adoption hurdles are among the many dark storm clouds blocking projections of the 2025 auto industry landscape.

Analysts, experts and professionals from the auto industry spoke out about their concerns Wednesday at the 31st Annual Automotive Symposium hosted at the Detroit branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago on Wednesday.

Some key takeaways from the event include:

Affordability remains a key concern, particularly as the average monthly payment for vehicles ticked up above $750, mostly from interest.
The proliferation of Chinese vehicle brands — such as BYD Auto — may depend more on federal policy decisions than consumer demand.
U.S. light vehicle sales and production are still recovering from COVID-19 disruption.

Kristin Dziczek, policy adviser for the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, told guests and assorted news media that everything is changing when it comes to the auto industry — the vehicles sold and what fuels them; the infrastructure needed to support those new fuel sources; the technologies those products use; and how automakers produce them. The potential for disruption is absolute, but really, what else is new?

“What never changes is people need a car,” Dziczek said. “The U.S. is a large country.”

Local NewsPhoto Credit: RivianYou Can Buy Rivian’s Van, But Don’t Come A Knockin’ On RIVN, Analyst WarnsSource: Investor’s Business Daily

Rivian (RIVN) has made its all-electric commercial van available for sale to the general public after years of it being only available to Amazon.com (AMZN).

Late Wednesday, the EV startup officially made the Rivian commercial van available with a starting price of $79,900 with deliveries slated to begin in April 2025. There are two variants, a 500 series and a 700 series, with both getting around 160 miles of range.

Rivian signed an agreement with Amazon in 2019 to design and develop electric commercial delivery vans and has prioritized production for Amazon since then. The online marketplace ordered 100,000 of Rivian’s electric vans and said in December 2024 it had 20,000 Rivian electric vans in its delivery fleet.

Amazon currently has a 15.6% stake in Rivian, according to FactSet. However, Amazon is also looking elsewhere to electrify its fleet.

However, Rivian in November 2023 amended its agreement with Amazon to allow the EV startup to sell commercial vans to any other commercial customers. At the end of the third-quarter, Rivian said it expected Amazon to increase its delivery order of vans in Q4 and announced it had launched the Rivian Commercial Van platform for the commercial market.

Meanwhile, Bernstein on Jan. 28 initiated coverage of Rivian with an underperform rating and a 6.10 price target, 52% below the current trading level.

The firm believes Rivian has built a brand based on adventure and has the resources to scale it, but it faces slower market growth, rising competition and limits to the segments its brand can address.

Bernstein analysts wrote that Rivian can succeed in its plan to reach more than 500,000 units by 2030, but that financial success for shareholders is not a given and that Rivian’s breakeven is “years away” and the company is facing “mounting risks.”

The Ferrari Blacklist: What It Is And How To Avoid Getting Your Name On It Source: CarBuzz

You’ve probably heard of the so-called Ferrari blacklist, which is essentially a list of individuals the Italian automaker won’t sell cars to. Why does the list even exist? Well, Ferrari and its Prancing Horse logo have a carefully curated reputation, and it remains one of the most exclusive brands out there.

You may argue that a car company has no right to tell you what to do with an expensive car you paid for, but it works. Ferrari is one of the most valuable car brands in the world, and most of its vehicles can be found in the garages of any avid car collector. You may own the car, but Ferrari owns the brand, and it will go to great lengths to protect it from people like Justin Bieber.

Cars of the Weak Eric: 1969 Fiat Classic 500 – $16,250(Best Write-up Award-Winner)

Features

Driven 4,000 miles
Manual transmission
Exterior color: Red · Interior color: Black
Fuel type: Petrol

Seller’s Description:

Divorced? Single? Lonely? Confidence taken a hit?

Never fear, help is here! Cancel that Bumble account, put away those ED pills and grab this once-in-a blue-moon opportunity for permanent MoJo.

In fact, once finished digesting this advert, I suggest hitting a furniture store and acquiring a new bed. You can transport it home in your size-substitution pickup and prepare to embrace your new life.

Here in sunny Broad Ripple (46220), I offer you this fine 1969 Classic Fiat 500. Imported by myself from Naples (Italy, not Florida), this has been my (occasional) daily driver, and I am hoarse from shouting ‘I have a girlfriend’.

Powered by an eager 495cc, delivered to the rear (12”) wheel via an agricultural (it’s a 1969) 4 speed gearbox, fun and attention are a guarantee.

Proud in Ferrari Red with a black interior, the bodywork is in perfect shape. Drives as smooth as your new girlfriends panties.

Like a clown looking for a circus, I have decided, reluctantly to part with it.

If it is listed, it is available. ‘Is it available?’ will be ignored.

Low ballers will be forwarded to the MOJO Gods and you will forever sleep alone

Daryl: 1957 Oldsmobile 88 Hardtop – $17,900Source: ClassicCars.com/

Seller’s Description

The 88 is a full-size car that Oldsmobile produced from 1949 until 1999 and was an image leader for GM when first introduced. It was one of the best performing vehicles on the market at the time due to its relatively small sized, lightweight, high compression V8 engine whose performance enabled the Olds 88 to be considered the first muscle car by some even though the title is disputed.

Specific to the 1957 model year is the Golden Rocket 88 whose only badging was 88’s under each taillight. It was equipped with a 371ci Rocket V8 rated at 277hp. Styling highlights were more evolutionary than radical, with a three-piece rear window design marketed as the “Twin-Strut Rear Window.” This particular example is a two-family car that the original owner traded for a new vehicle in 1977. The original owner left his name & number for the 2nd owner and they became life-long family friends shortly after.

In the early 80’s the 2nd owner repainted it in its original color of Banff Blue. The 2nd owner sold it back to the original owner (and his son) in 1987. The original owner gifted the car to his son in 2016 and his son has been the sole owner since. At just over 100,000 miles the current owner had the original Rocket V8 and 4 speed Jetaway auto transmission rebuilt and both run incredibly.

Thanks for Listening!We’re close to our 100th episode, so stay tuned for a special celebration.

The post Episode 98 – Love is in the Air (Unless You Drive a Nissan) appeared first on Throwin' Wrenches Automotive Podcast.

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https://traffic.libsyn.com/thebeerreport/TW96_-Final.mp3Welcome to the automotive podcast that will not be merging with Honda, Nissan and Mitsubushi.

In this week’s episode, hosts Eric & Daryl dive into the transforming automotive landscape, from industry mergers to electrification challenges.

NewsWorld News* We break down the complex dynamics of the proposed Honda-Nissan merger and its implications for the automotive industry and consumers. * We cover BYD’s challenges in Brazil: Understanding the recent work visa suspension and its impact on global expansion * We offer analysis of Chinese automakers’ growing influence in the European market

National News* We offer a tribute to President Jimmy Carter’s legacy in automotive safety and environmental regulations * We recap Tesla’s unexpected market dynamics: Examining Hertz’s EV fleet selloff and its market implications

Supercar SpotlightWe explore two highly anticipated releases:

Chevrolet Corvette Zora: A deep dive into what could be the most powerful Corvette ever produced!
DeLorean Alpha5: Examining the controversy and potential of this ambitious EV revival.

ProjectsEric’s Winter Projects* Upcoming Western adventure planning and Moore Expo preparations

Daryl’s Winter Projects* + Progress on the 1955 Cadillac Fleetwood brake system and an unexpected venture into cuckoo clock repair

Cars of the WeakThis week’s spotlight falls on a meticulously restored 1998 BMW M3 Coupe with DINAN upgrades, representing the perfect blend of classic BMW engineering and modern performance enhancements.

And Eric picks a tiki hut on wheels that spent its life on Gilligan’s Island.

Connect With UsJoin the conversation:

Email: info@throwinwrenches.com
Leave a review where you can
Support us on Patreon

Visit our SponsorCatch new episodes of Throwin’ Wrenches on all major podcast platforms. Special thanks to Fort’s Toyota of Pekin for their continued support.

The post Episode 96 – Automotive Merger Mania appeared first on Throwin' Wrenches Automotive Podcast.

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https://traffic.libsyn.com/thebeerreport/TW_95_Full.mp3Welcome to the automotive podcast that enjoys bringing you a festive yule log.

On this episode of Throwin’ Wrenches…

He’s not a setup artist, but he is the guy responsible for this show.
Please welcome Dustin “The Voice” Wickoff!

As always, thanks for listening. To join in on the fun of the show, just email us at info@throwinwrenches.com or post a review and we’ll read it on the air: Good, bad or ugly!

SponsorsFort’s Toyota of PekinProjectsEric has nothing new in the projects department, except for the fact that he’s getting back to work after an annual pilgrimage to Italy. He didn’t bring us back any prosciutto or anything, so he’s persona non grata as they say.

We also talked to his travel agent and learned that he’s run out of frequent flyer miles and he can’t take any more vacations until June, 2025.

Meanwhile, Daryl’s stuff is tucked away for the winter, which is great. Since Illinois antique vehicle license plates are good for 5 years at a time, all of the license renewals came in for the entire fleet of the Scott Auto Museum at once, so he got that ironed out, along with ordering new brake lines for the ‘55 Caddy. Lines and a master cylinder will be the last hurdle before he’s able to drive the thing next year.

And finally, our friend Dustin just bought a new car after an unfortunate incident involving a Nissan CVT transmission and a sound that went something like “ka-boink”. We’re happy that he chose something from the Ford family of fine cars with a conventional transmission.

About Our GuestWe could spend hours describing our guest for this Christmas show. He’s a podcasting legend known throughout the world for his successful shows Drunken Lullabies, Drunken Lullabies Presents: Drunk at the Movies, Dishing Disney, The Importance of Seeing Ernest and most currently, Radio Rewind and Yesterdaze.

If you’ve never heard of any of these shows, make sure to click through the links above and give a few of them a listen. There’s something in there for everybody because Dustin has a great many interests (from craft beer to collecting vinyl and enjoying live music to the appreciation of comedian Jim Varney’s entire catalog.)

It was one of Dustin’s interests that ended up bringing Eric and Daryl together for the first time, and the shared chemistry ended up being the genesis of Throwin’ Wrenches Podcast. We’ll dive into what that first experience was, learn what other projects Dustin has worked on over the years, and why podcasting is such an enjoyable outlet for folks who consume media at an enviable pace.

Christmas WishIt’s our tradition to bring you a Christmas-themed show each year. While this episode is a little light on the yuletide celebration, it did bring ‘the family’ together again for a short time. We’ve been wanting to have Dustin on the show for many years, and we were finally able to connect and make it happen in 2024. Even after a few years without doing a show together, we stepped right back into it without missing a beat. We’d like to thank Dustin for being a great friend and inspiration for fellow podcasters everywhere.

As we embark on 2025 and nearly 100 episodes of this goofy little automotive podcast, Eric and I would like to wish all of our friends a very Merry Christmas and safe, enjoyable holiday season. May Santa bring you all the car parts you asked for, and may you and your family have a Happy New Year.

Thanks for your support, and we look forward to bringing you more content in the new year!

The post Episode 95 – “The Voice” of Christmas appeared first on Throwin' Wrenches Automotive Podcast.

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https://traffic.libsyn.com/thebeerreport/TW_93.mp3Welcome to the automotive podcast that is ready for some trunk-or-treat!

On this episode of Throwin’ Wrenches:

Newsom is vetoing speed limits!
Robots versus Longshoremen: It’s not an action movie, it’s real-life.
Rambler versus Panda: Who will win the Cars of the Weak for this week?

Sponsors

| Fort’s Toyota of Pekin | Patreon Family |

ProjectsEric KOAR, or the Keweenau Overland Aventure R*etreat, was kool. * Rentals for the camper * Time to pull the celica in and do the work needed. The roof now pops and the glass is clanking.

Daryl* Did a ton of work on the 1955 Cadillac Fleetwood over the past two weeks. It’s soooo close to firing! * Moved the ’69 Volvo into storage to the chagrin of some folks. * I’m tired of playing musical cars, so I need to figure out something soon. Probably the last winter of this sorta thing.

NewsStellantis U.S. Auto Sales Extend Freefall in Third QuarterSource: CNBC

Stellantis’ U.S. new vehicle sales during the third quarter continued a yearslong freefall despite CEO Carlos Tavares’ actions to fix what he has called “arrogant” mistakes by the company. The Transatlantic carmaker reported U.S. sales Tuesday of 305,294 from July through September, a 19.8% decline from the third quarter of 2023 and an 11.5% decrease from the prior three months of this year. Stellantis was expected to be the worst sales performer of major automakers during the third quarter, and auto industry forecaster Cox Automotive had projected a sales decline of roughly 21%.

European Automakers Most at Risk From US Dockworkers Strike, Analysts SaySource: Reuters

European automakers are the most likely to be affected by the dockworkers strike at U.S. East Coast and Gulf Coast ports because they rely heavily on those locations, but a longer walkout could prove “debilitating” to the entire sector, industry officials and analysts said. The dockworkers began their first large-scale stoppage in nearly 50 years early on Tuesday, halting the flow of about half the nation’s ocean shipping.

California governor vetoes bill requiring speeding alerts in new carsSource: AP News

Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed a bill Saturday that would have required new cars to beep at drivers if they exceed the speed limit.

California would have become the first to require such systems for all new cars, trucks and buses sold in the state starting in 2030. The bill, aimed at reducing traffic deaths, would have mandated that vehicles beep at drivers when they exceed the speed limit by at least 10 mph (16kph).

The European Union has passed similar legislation to encourage drivers to slow down. California’s proposal would have provided exceptions for emergency vehicles, motorcycles and motorized scooters.

In explaining his veto, Newsom said federal law already dictates vehicle safety standards and adding California-specific requirements would create a patchwork of regulations.

The National Highway Traffic Safety “is also actively evaluating intelligent speed assistance systems, and imposing state-level mandates at this time risks disrupting these ongoing federal assessments,” the Democratic governor said.

General Motors’ Mark Reuss: Hyundai JV Prospects Are Excellent, Culture at GM Ready To RockSource: Wards Auto

General Motors recently entered into a Memo of Understanding with Hyundai Group for co-development of a wide array of possible projects, technology sharing and purchasing for shared projects. GM President Mark Reuss says he has high expectations for the agreement despite the automaker’s spotty history with joint ventures. “This is really a shared vision around what both of our goals are and objectives, and open communication and I think staying agile and flexible because this industry and market isn’t stagnant,” says Reuss.

Point, Counter PointA West Coast port worker union is fighting robots. The stakes for the supply chain are highSource: CNBC

In 1993, the Dutch port complex in Rotterdam became the first to introduce machine automation and has since become the model for a fully automated terminal, most of which have emerged since the 2010s in Asia and Europe.
There are near 1,000 container ports in the world, yet last year, according to a report by the International Transport Forum, only around 53 were automated, representing 4% of the total global container terminal capacity.
The argument about the economic efficiency of automating port work is a key one in the current labor union contract dispute between the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) and the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA).

Super Car News SearchMercedes-AMG readies game-changing supercar to replace SLS EVSource: Autocar

Mercedes-AMG is hatching plans for a spectacular electric supercar that will launch the performance brand into the EV age.

The new performance halo model was previewed by last year’s retro-inspired Vision One-Eleven concept, and it is described as a “brand-defining successor to the SLS Electric Drive”, the 730bhp quad-motor EV that was launched in 2013 and which cost £333,000. But while that car was limited to just nine examples, the new AMG supercar is planned for significantly higher production numbers when it arrives later this decade.

Making its flagship less of an exclusive offering is central to AMG’s evolving electrification strategy. It has already launched powered-up versions of the EQE, EQE SUV, EQS and EQS SUV, with specific motors and battery technology separate from those of their standard siblings.

The new electric supercar is considered a key part of Mercedes-AMG’s future, despite CEO Michael Schiebe moving to extend the life of some of AMG’s more profitable combustion-engined models amid slower than expected sales of its EVs.

However, Schiebe leaves little doubt about the company’s ultimate trajectory, telling Autocar: “It’s clear that we are going all-electric.”

The new supercar will be charged with cementing AMG’s performance credentials as it switches from high-output combustion engines to electric power. Autocar understands it is likely to outpace the 1049bhp Mercedes-AMG One, whose Formula 1-derived, V6/electric hybrid set-up is good for 0-62mph in 2.9sec and 0-186mph in 15.6sec.

Cars of the Weak Eric: 1996 Fiat panda 4×4 – $15,000Source: Facebook Markplace

From the Listing: 1996 Fiat Panda 4×4 imported from Japan over a year ago. Has all original import documents as well as clean Michigan title. Engine is recently rebuilt and has a ton of life left. 4×4 works great without issue, is FWD with 4×4 disengaged. Has 1.1 liter Fiat FIRE engine that gets great mileage and has no problem hitting highway speeds. Has new engine and tranny oil, antifreeze, tires, water pump, timing belt, 4×4 bushing, and thermostat. Has small rust spots on rockers and seats have slight blemishes. Also has cold working AC and a 5 speed manual transmission.

Daryl: 1963 Rambler American Station Wagon – $10,000Source: Facebook Marketplace

From the Listing: Who needs a sweet solid 1963 AMC rambler custom wagon project as a Ford straight six. It will need a motor I’m told. Automatic transmission, Ohio Title. If you know somebody looking for a project wagon, please feel free to share my ad.

The post Episode 93 – Panda Versus Rambler appeared first on Throwin' Wrenches Automotive Podcast.

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https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/thebeerreport/TW_92.mp3Welcome to the automotive podcast that is keeping it cool in the hot midwest!On this episode of Throwin’ Wrenches…

Trikes! Eric seems to love them… So we Race Daily Kill them!
Are you down with B-Y-D? Yeah, you know me!
Where in the world is Carlos Goshn?

Thanks for listening. To join in on the fun of the show, just email us at info@throwinwrenches.com at any time.

Sponsors

| Fort’s Toyota of Pekin | Patreon Members |

ProjectsEric: I added another car to the fleet.* Welcome to our new 2024 Prius! * Aiden took old Prius * The Celica has a check engine light on the dash. Why do we charge diagnostic fees at the dealer? I’ll tell you why.

Daryl: Got my driveshaft done on Börk, the ‘69 Volvo.* The little meatball runs great! * Fuel leaks in Minerva the ‘55 Plymouth. I’ll sort it out. * Drove Oscar the ‘47 Chevy last weekend for the second time this year and I’m still in love with how simple that car is and how good it runs.

Race. Daily. Kill.The contenders this time are all three-wheeled wonders.
They are:

NewsHow China Is Becoming a Money Pit for Foreign AutomakersSource: NADA

For the largest global automakers, profits in China have been hit by falling sales as consumers embrace electric vehicles from homegrown brands such as BYD, which last year supplanted Volkswagen as China’s bestselling carmaker. In July, EVs and plug-in hybrids accounted for over half of all cars sold in the country for the first time, while the share shipped to dealers by non-Chinese brands slipped to 33%, down from 50% two years earlier.

Mitsubishi joins Honda and Nissan in EV tie-upSource: Electronics Weekly
Mitsubishi Motors has joined Nissan and Honda in an EV tie-upwhere all three companies share key components and software.

Nissan and Honda announced an EV collaboration in March.

Nissan CEO Makoto Uchida, Nissan says: “We are very pleased to welcome a new member to the strategic partnership between Honda and Nissan. Mitsubishi Motors has unique technologies and expertise.”

Honda CEO Toshihiro Mibe, said the industry is going through a “once in a century” period of transformation towards electrification and collaboration would help resolve related issues more quickly.

Mitsubishi Motors CEO Takao Kato, said that collaboration is essential to future success in the automotive industry.

Former Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn was scathing about the move: “I can’t imagine for one moment how it’s going to work between Honda and Nissan unless it’s a takeover, unless it’s a disguised takeover by Honda of Nissan and Mitsubishi with Honda in the driver’s seat. It’s going to be a takeover, a disguised takeover,” he told Automotive News.

One of the most controversial executives in the car industry is not afraid to call things as he sees them. After saying Nissan is “boring, mediocre” and in a “bad position” while describing the Renault-Nissan alliance as “small and fragile,” the 70-year-old fugitive now has something to say about the newly formed Honda-Nissan-Mitsubishi partnership.

Carlos Ghosn: Honda Plans ‘Disguised Takeover’ of Nissan and MitsubishiSource: Motor1
In a new interview with Automotive News, Ghosn said Honda is plotting a “disguised takeover” of Nissan and Mitsubishi. He believes that Honda is by far the biggest of the three Japanese automakers, so it puts the company in the “driver’s seat” to take control. Complete details about the new agreement haven’t been fleshed out, but the former man in charge of Nissan argues that Honda will call the shots.

Mercedes-Benz becomes the first foreign automaker to gain approval to test Level 4 autonomous driving technology in prototype vehicles on selected roads in Beijing. The approval, granted by the Chinese government, is described by Mercedes-Benz as a “crucial step” in advancing its existing Drive Pilot system to a level where it possesses full control from start to finish of any given journey where the conditions and autonomous regulatory framework allow.

Source: WardsAuto

Stellantis idles Michigan engine plant for a weekSource: Automotive News

Stellantis is halting production for a week at the Trenton, Mich., plant that makes V-6 engines for the Jeep Wrangler and Ram 1500 Classic to whittle down a large backlog. The downtime is because of a need “to balance engine inventories with production,” the automaker said. Stellantis has been adjusting its production output and laying off workers, in some cases, amid sliding sales and changes to its vehicle portfolio.

Swedish EV maker Polestar starts U.S. production, avoiding heavy tariffsSource: ReutersSwedish electric-vehicle (EV) maker Polestar moved one step further in avoiding major tariffs imposed on Chinese-made cars on Wednesday when the automaker said it began production of its Polestar 3 SUV in the United States. Steep tariffs recently imposed by U.S. and Europe on cars made in China have prompted many automakers to speed up plans to move parts of their production to other countries.

Dangerous Air Bags Still Haunt Older Cars Nearly a Decade LaterSource: AxiosFord and Mazda are telling customers not to drive certain older vehicles equipped with faulty air bags that were recalled years ago but never replaced by their owners. The warnings are an urgent reminder of the danger from the largest and most complex safety recall in U.S. history, affecting 67 million Takata air bags in tens of millions of vehicles. Even minor crashes can cause the affected cars’ air bag to explode, sending metal fragments that can kill or produce life-altering, gruesome injuries, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

States Scramble to Replace Gas Tax CashSource: POLITICO

Most states now levy a dedicated fee on electric vehicle owners. Some also have rolled back other incentives, such as New Jersey’s decision this year to restart sales tax on EVs. Or they have reconfigured registration fees to land more heavily on EVs, as in Maryland. The justification from both Democratic and Republican policymakers for making EVs more expensive is that states are staring down a budgetary cliff. The gasoline tax — long the backbone of transportation funding — has lost potency as vehicles become more efficient.

“It’s more of an anti-electric vehicle policy than a road funding policy,” state Rep. Frank Hornstein, the Democratic chair of the Minnesota House Transportation Committee, said of states trying to make up gas tax revenue by charging EV owners.

States face a balancing act: The more quickly drivers go electric, the more quickly gas tax revenues decline; the more states lean on EVs to make up lost gas tax revenue, the more it weighs down EV demand.

“We’re not at a point where electric cars are in any way, shape or form quote-unquote ‘stealing’ from the gas tax,” Hornstein said. “We’re far from that. … It’s a drop in the bucket.”

Photo Credit: FerarriSuper Car News SearchFerrari Electric Supercar: Everything We KnowFerrari’s first-ever electric car should debut in 2025 and go on sale in 2026. Here’s what we know about it.Source: Motor1

Ferrari is set to reveal its first electric vehicle by the end of 2025 and it should be a big deal for the Italian automaker. Ferrari CEO Benedetto Vigna says that the automaker’s first electric car won’t lose the brand’s “unique” feel. Vigna also pointed out the obvious—Ferrari’s first EV “will have four wheels.”

Ferrari has been testing heavily camouflaged prototypes ahead of the EV’s debut, but we don’t really know if the test mules will resemble the finished product.

What Will It Look Like?Ferrari has turned to former Apple Design Chief Jony Ive and industrial designer Marc Newson to work on the car’s outside appearance.

Our friends over at Motor1 stated the following in regard to the vehicle’s design:

Our first look at Ferrari’s EV was hiding underneath a heavily modified Maserati Levante body with fake exhaust tips tacked on the back. But just because the prototype is an SUV doesn’t necessarily mean Ferrari’s EV will be one as well. It’s unclear what the final form looks like at this stage of its development, although we expect some light crossover-like features (like minor cladding and a slight lift).

What Will It Sound Like?Like some other automakers, Ferrari wants to develop “sound signatures” for the vehicle. So, this means that it won’t be virtually silent.

Ferrari CEO Vigna previously stated, “Electric cars are not silent,” but he didn’t reveal what sort of non-silence we should expect from Ferrari’s first EV.

What Will Power It?Ferrari has been working with SK On, a South Korean vehicle battery manufacturer, and the two companies recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding to continue their ongoing collaboration. So, it seems likely, though not guaranteed, that the batteries for Ferrari’s first EV will come from SK On.

We expect the EV to have at least two electric motors, but of course, there’s room for more. Perhaps a top-level version will have three or even four motors.

How Much Will It Cost?There have been some reports suggesting that Ferrari would price the EV at over $500,000 to start. However, Ferrari CEO Vigna said $500,000 was “a surprise” to him, so we expect a lower figure.

It won’t be cheap though. Our friends over at Motor1 suggest, “It’ll likely cost much more than the Portofino M, which starts at around $250,000, but it could cost less than the SF90 Stradale that’s on its way out.” That model starts at over $520,000. There’s a lot of space between those two figures. We should find out its price when it debuts.

Cars of the WeakEric: 1929 Ford Roadster Street RodSource: Bring a Trailer
From the Ad:
This Ford Model A-style street rod is a steel-bodied roadster that was built at least two decades ago, according to the selling dealer. It is powered by 327ci Chevrolet V8 with a dual-quad induction setup, a Weiand intake manifold, and double-hump cylinder heads. The engine is backed by a Tremec five-speed manual transmission and a Ford 9” rear end, and details include a ’33-style grille, a Hilborn-style air scoop, a removable Carson-style top, and purple paint with pinstriping applied by Bob Behounek of Chicago, Illinois. The car rides on a tubular steel chassis with a four-bar front suspension setup, a dropped front axle, four-link rear suspension, Bilstein dampers and coilovers, Weld Racing 15” wheels, and four-wheel disc brakes. Trimmed in black vinyl, the interior is equipped with a Hurst shifter, Sony AM/FM/CD head unit, banjo-style steering wheel, and VDO instrumentation. Acquired by the selling dealer in 2024, this custom street rod is now offered with a clean Florida title listing it as a 1929 Ford.

Daryl: 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass Salon – $21,995Source: Facebook Marketplace

From the Ad:
1976 Cutlass Salon! Very rare model with the manual transmission only 964 ever made!! Yes the mileage is correct only 16,000 original miles! For more information you can drop a comment down below send me a message on here or feel free to call or text me directly.

As always, thanks for listening! The post Episode 92 – Electric Ferraris and a Trike Showdown appeared first on Throwin' Wrenches Automotive Podcast.

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https://traffic.libsyn.com/thebeerreport/TW_91_FINAL_-_96kb.mp3Welcome to the automotive podcast that does not require a special license to listen to… unless you live in Australia!

On this episode of Throwin’ Wrenches…

Want some shaved ice? A hot dog? How about a hamburger? We might have a business opportunity for you.
AI is taking the wheel… Literally
Sideshows and joyrides? It must be summer.

All that and more on This episode of Throwin’ Wrenches!

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| Fort’s Toyota of Pekin | Our Patreon Supporters |

ProjectsEric* Oil leak on Treehugger. Don’t use universal tools! * Ready for a trip to Colorado. * 2 sets of tires for 2 cars. I’m broke. * Throttle body cleaning on the green ’96 Celica.

Daryl* Working on the Volvo driveshafts. * Enjoying my junk for the time being. * Solara brakes are done. The top is fixed.

New Segment: Full-Time, Part-Time or Side Hustle.We joke all the time about our retirement job. More often than not, we find ourselves looking at being a Good Humor salesman. (Remember them?)

They all have wheels, and some even have motors, so it all counts for Throwin’ Wrenches.

Similar style to Race Daily Kill… I want to know what your opinions are on these three different levels of food trucks… Would you quit your day job and make this the full-time gig… Maybe it’s something you might do part-time? What about a straight side hustle?

What are your choices for… Full-time, Part-time or Side Hustle?

(A side hustle is a secondary job or small business that someone has in addition to their main career to earn extra money or fulfill a passion. Side hustles can offer more freedom and control than part-time jobs, allowing people to choose when and how many hours they work, and to pursue activities that align with their interests. Some people may eventually turn their side hustle into their primary career.)

NewsAll Cars in Europe To Be Fitted With Speed-Limiting AI Tech Due to New EU RuleSource: The U.S. Sun

All cars will now have to be fitted with speed-limiting AI tech due to new EU rules. The new gadget can, in some cases, slow the vehicle down for you if it catches you breaking the speed limit.

Intelligent Speed Assitance (ISA) systems became a legal requirement for motors across the EU as a law passed two years ago came into effect on July 7.

ISAs make use of AI, GPS data and even onboard cameras to assess your speed in real time as you drive along.

The system will then intervene if you go above the limit it has worked out for the road you are on.

For example, the system can assess things like road markings to determine whether you are in a 20mph or 30mph zone.

From there, there are three types of ISA which firms could opt to install, with each offering different levels of intervention.

First of all, informative ISAs only result in a warning message and sound to alert the driver that they are breaking the limit.

One level up from that is the supportive ISA, which works by increasing the upward force on the accelerator pedal to try and make it harder for drivers to speed up.

Finally, intervening ISAs are the most active, with the system actually slowing the vehicle down, whether the driver wants it to or not, until it goes back under the limit.

As sideshows gain popularity, police try a range of tactics to stop them in their tracksSource: Morning Edition, NPR

Depending on where you live, you may have already heard of street takeovers: impromptu events, usually at night, in which drivers of muscle cars take turns doing donuts in intersections for cheering crowds.

In Alabama, the police refer to it as “exhibition driving.” Birmingham officer Mark Jones says it’s hard to miss.

“You can see the smoke from them burning their tires from several blocks away,” he says.

Police say the phenomenon grew during the pandemic, but it isn’t new. Filmmaker Yakpasua Zazaboi encountered it 25 years ago as a young man in Oakland. Californians call the events “sideshows,” and he says it helps to understand the original slang.

“When you see young fellas pulling up in their cars and they’re trying to look cool,” he says, “the way that you kind of lean back and towards the side — it was generally called ‘sidin.’ ”

And he says the sideshow is just a show of show-offs. People showing off their souped up cars, along with elements of style and fashion. He says it was “love at first sight” for him.

“[It was] hundreds if not thousands of black faces, all getting along together, all having fun in the middle of the night,” he says.

But sideshows also disrupt traffic, disturb neighbors and endanger lives. Spectators make a game of crowding in as close as they can around the spinning cars, and the resulting collisions are prime viewing on social media.

For coastal automobile dealers, contingency planning for severe tropical weather is muscle memory. But higher insurance premiums are an added pain point this year, some said. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts an 85 percent chance of an above-average Atlantic hurricane season. It expects 17 to 25 named storms. Dealers told Automotive News they are confident in their hurricane readiness, though they plan to closely monitor the weather.

Stolen car joyrides lead to multiple underage arrests in PeoriaSource WMBD-TV, Peoria

Three 15-year-olds are now in the Peoria Juvenile Detention Center and one in the hospital after officers stopped two cars that were reported stolen early Tuesday morning.

According to a Peoria police news release, officers saw two cars traveling south on Western Avenue around 4:30 a.m. One was excessively speeding and the other car following had a missing passenger window. Both cars were reported stolen.

One car stopped near AutoZone on W. Proctor while the other continued south. Three 15-year-old boys were inside the stopped car. Officers detained and interviewed the three at Peoria Police Department before they were charged with possession of a stolen motor vehicle and possession of cannabis. The driver of the stolen car was also cited for no driver’s license.

The second car attempted a left turn on SW Jefferson Street. When the driver saw the police, he abandoned the car and ran.

He was taken into custody after a brief chase, being taken to a local hospital for a hurt ankle.

When released, he will be arrested and taken to the Juvenile Detention Center for possession of stolen motor vehicle, fleeing and eluding, reckless driving, obstructing police and possession of burglary tools.

Super Car News SearchAustralian Supercar Drivers Will Need Special LicenseSouth Australia state will require anybody with a car with more than 0.168 hp/pound to take an additional test.Source: Road & Track

Younger drivers in the United States are already familiar with the restrictions brought by graduated licensing, with the grindingly slow graduation from provisional, probationary, or intermediate status to the glorious freedom that comes with a full license. From that point onwards, you are free to drive any car you can afford and insure.

Now one Australian state is set to impose new restrictions on all drivers wanting to drive the most powerful cars, regardless of their age or level of experience. From December this year, anybody in South Australia wanting to operate what is categorized as an Ultra High Powered Vehicle (UHPV) will have to take and pass an additional test to earn a new U-License. Failing to do so will result in a fine of up to $2500 Australian if caught in a qualifying car; that’s nearly $1700 at current exchange rates. Get caught a second time and you face up to a year in jail.

Earning the U-License will be done through an online training course followed by a test; there is no practical element to prove any level of driving skills. Much of the course is reportedly dedicated to explaining the function of active safety systems.

Cars of the Weak Eric1929 Mercedes “Gazelle” Kit CarSource: Facebook Marketplace

From the Ad: 1929 Mercedes Gazelle kit car. I belongs to a friend of mine. Want info? Call or text.

What a comprehensive ad, wouldn’t you say?

There’s a TON of these air-cooled VW Beetle-based kit cars lurking around Marketplace these days. Just taking a quick look yielded quite a few:

Could these be the cheapest and most fun roadster “fun cars” out there today?

Speaking of roadsters…

Daryl1991 Buick Reatta Convertible – $20,000Source: Hemmings

From the ad: Gateway Classic Cars of Atlanta is proud to present this 1991 Buick Reatta convertible. Its red exterior turns heads while the tan leather interior offers a touch of elegance and sophistication. Under the hood a 3.8 liter V6 engine paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. This Reatta is equipped with power features including power brakes power locks power seats power steering and power windows all designed to provide you with a convenient driving experience.

For your comfort the Reatta comes with air conditioning and the AM/FM radio provides a variety of entertainment options for your journey. The manual convertible top is easy to operate allowing you to enjoy the open air at a moment’s notice. The car also features seatbelts. The leather interior adds a touch of luxury to this classic car. This 1991 Buick Reatta convertible is a blend of classic style and modern convenience offering a unique driving experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to own this classic Reatta.

As always, thanks for listening!Hit us up anytime at info@throwinwrenches.com.The post Episode 91 – Food Truck Frenzy! appeared first on Throwin' Wrenches Automotive Podcast.

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https://traffic.libsyn.com/thebeerreport/TW_88.mp3Welcome to the auto podcast that did not buy a Bentley Continental last week…

On this episode of Throwin’ Wrenches…

Sony and Honda are making waves with legacy automakers
Subaru leaves a lasting Legacy
Spring is in the air… and so are auto theft joyrides

Thanks for listening. To join in on the fun of the show, just email us at info@throwinwrenches.com

Sponsors

| Fort’s Toyota of Pekin | Central Illinois Region SCCA | Special thanks to our Patreon supporters. |

ProjectsEric explains how a trailer toilet works, rattles off some rally time with his son, Aiden, and recaps this year’s MOORE Overlanding & Off Road Expo. It sounds like a really cool event and may be worth checking out in 2025.

Meanwhile, Daryl is tracking down some tires for his 1947 Chevy Fleetline and preparing for some spring cleaning on all the daily drivers. He needs to get a good coat of wax on everything.

NewsTesla’s $939 Billion Valuation Lead Over Toyota Is Almost GoneSource: Bloomberg

Tesla’s edge over Toyota narrowed to about $83 billion before the start of regular US trading Tuesday. After the close, the electric-vehicle maker is expected to report its first decline in quarterly revenue in four years and a 40% plunge in operating earnings. Toyota has drawn criticism for biding its time on cars entirely powered by batteries and wagering that consumers will be more open to its gas-electric hybrids. Its strategy has paid off in recent months as EV sales growth has slowed.

Dealers Raise Concerns About How Scout, Sony Honda Mobility Will Sell VehiclesSource: Automotive News

A group of state dealer associations is pressing Honda Motor Co. and Volkswagen Group not to sell planned electric vehicles from Scout and Sony Honda Mobility outside of the country’s franchised dealer system. The Automotive Trade Association Executives, in perhaps the most public display of frustration yet, addressed the issue in a full-page ad in the April 15 issue of Automotive News, calling out both automakers as well as Scout, a brand formed by Volkswagen Group, and Sony Honda Mobility, a joint venture between Sony and Honda that is developing electric vehicles under the Afeela brand.

Here are the 5 least expensive EVs in the first quarterSource: Automotive News

Big discounts to move electric vehicles off dealership lots means consumers have a selection of vehicles priced below $41,000. Automakers and retailers offered huge incentives — sometimes five-digit discounts — to sell EVs that lingered on dealership lots for more than 100 days in the first quarter of 2024. They are trying to overcome consumer worries about EV driving range limitations, a lack of public charging stations and high prices. The price-cutting strategy is not sustainable long term, said Stephanie Valdez Streaty, director of industry insights at Cox Automotive.

2025 Subaru Legacy to mark end of brand’s midsize sedanSource: Automotive News

Subaru said it will end production of its oldest U.S.-built model, the Legacy sedan, after the 2025 model year, citing a shift in consumer preferences away from cars to crossovers and SUVs. The Japanese automaker also said Tuesday that it plans to produce eight electric vehicles globally by 2028. Ending Legacy output at a plant in Lafayette, Ind., would presumably free up capacity for Subaru to produce at least one of those EVs in the U.S., helping it to potentially qualify for EV consumer tax credits.

Traffic deaths topped 40,000 last year as NHTSA looks to reduce distracted drivingSource: NBC News

More than 40,000 people were killed last year in traffic crashes, according to preliminary data released Monday, remaining above pre-pandemic levels but slightly down from their peak in 2021. Traffic deaths spiked in 2020 and again in 2021 and have since declined slightly. Still,they are up 25% since 2013, and the Governors Highway Safety Association found that pedestrian deaths reached a 40-year high in the United States in 2022.

The NHTSA said that “distracted driving,” an issue that has grown in urgency with the ubiquity of smartphones, resulted in 3,308 deaths and 289,310 injuries in 2022, and 3,522 deaths in 2021.

The agency released the data to coincide with the launch of an April campaign to spread awareness about distracted driving called “Put the Phone Away or Pay,” which hopes to scare people away from texting and driving, but which some advocates call an ineffective waste of resources.

Stolen car joyrides lead to multiple underage arrests in PeoriaSource: CI PROUD

Three 15-year-olds are now in the Peoria Juvenile Detention Center and one in the hospital after officers stopped two cars that were reported stolen early Tuesday morning.

One car stopped near AutoZone on W. Proctor while the other continued south. Three 15-year-old boys were inside the stopped car. Officers detained and interviewed the three at Peoria Police Department before they were charged with possession of a stolen motor vehicle and possession of a cannabis. The driver of the stolen car was also cited for no driver’s license.

The second car attempted a left turn on SW Jefferson Street. When the driver saw police, he abandoned the car and ran.

He was taken into custody after a brief chase, being taken to a local hospital for a hurt ankle.

Moment of MuskI want my XTVElon Musk’s X Launches TV App as It Pushes Video AmbitionsSource: The Hollywood Reporter

Elon Musk‘s X platform is continuing its video push, launching a dedicated app for smart TV sets.

The X video app launched Tuesday, with the company touting a handful of key features, including a trending video algorithm, artificial intelligence-powered trending topics and cross-device compatibility, so users can start watching on their phone and continue watching on TV.

The X TV app will not have any ads at launch, according to a note sent to the company’s corporate partners Tuesday.

“We’re focusing on launching this new feature for consumers first, but we do plan to monetize it, and will discuss different forms of partnerships — and that may include ads,” the note said.

The company also posted a preview video of the video experience, providing a brief glimpse of the TV app. The videos included in the preview video included Tucker Carlson’s interview with Vladimir Putin and footage of a SpaceX rocket lifting off. SpaceX is also owned by Musk.

Video has emerged as a key priority for X, which is led by CEO Linda Yaccarino, a veteran NBCUniversal advertising executive.

In addition to letting users upload their own videos, à la YouTube, the company also cut deals with some third parties, like a multiyear deal with Range Media Partners. That deal included a show hosted by sports personality Jim Rome, with the tech company also unveiling shows hosted by Tulsi Gabbard and Don Lemon.

Cars of the WeakEric: – 1997 Toyota Corolla II (JDM) $5,145Source: Car From Japan

Car from Japan for the win this week… Searching for Toyota models from 1928 to 1999 with a max value of 5k. 96 cars showed up… Lots of weird stuff… and one cool hatch. You might be more familiar with this model as a Tercel. Sold in the US with a 2 or 4-door option without the hatch.

Daryl: 1958 Pontiac Bonneville – $15,900Source: Facebook Marketplace

Original Colorado barn find. That’s all the ad says. Maybe it’s a scam. Maybe it’s a cool 50’s car that should come to the Scott Auto Museum.

That’s all for this week. Thanks again for your support and we’ll catch you on the next episode!

The post Episode 88 – Leaving a Lasting Legacy appeared first on Throwin' Wrenches Automotive Podcast.

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Welcome to the auto podcast that is not trying to populate the world with narcissistic CEOs.

On this episode of Throwin’ Wrenches…

Historical Headlines!
EVs are falling Hybrids are rising
Find out what Ben Franklin and Elon have in common

All that and more on this episode of Throwin’ Wrenches.

https://traffic.libsyn.com/thebeerreport/TW_86.mp3Sponsors

| Fort’s Toyota of Pekin | Our Patreon Supporters |

ProjectsEric* I am playing with fire on Bring a Trailer * Celicas everywhere * Camper wheel bearing redux

Daryl* Swap meets coming up * My sale streak ended but I’ll probably keep buying more parts * Solara brakes. Please make me do my Solara brakes in 2024

Historical HeadlineFebruary 8, 1993 GM Sues NBC For Defamation over Exploing “Side Saddle Gas Tanks” Image Credit: YouTubeNBC Admits It Rigged Crash, Settles GM SuitSource: LA Times

In an extraordinary public apology, NBC said Tuesday night that it erred in staging a fiery test crash of a General Motors pickup truck for its “Dateline NBC” news program and agreed to settle a defamation suit filed by the automaker.

“We deeply regret we included the inappropriate demonstration in our ‘Dateline’ report,” said a statement read by NBC News co-anchors Jane Pauley and Stone Phillips Tuesday night. “We apologize to our viewers and to General Motors. We have also concluded that unscientific demonstrations should have no place in hard news stories at NBC. That’s our new policy.”

The apology, still being negotiated within five minutes of air time, was part of a settlement of a lawsuit GM filed Monday over film used in a Nov. 17 segment of “Dateline.”

In its apology, NBC admitted that it had used incendiary devices to ensure that a fire would erupt if gasoline leaked from the truck being hit by a test car. The 15-minute segment was addressing critics’ charges that GM’s full-size pickup trucks built between 1973 and 1987 are unsafe because their gasoline tanks are on the sides of the trucks, outside the frame.

GM has staunchly denied that the trucks have safety problems.

NewsUsed vehicle prices will fall 5.7% in 2024, expert saysSource: Automotive News

Used-vehicle prices will continue falling this year, but affordability remains an issue for many buyers, said Jonathan Banks, vice president of product development and valuation services at J.D. Power. Speaking at the J.D. Power Auto Summit in Las Vegas, Banks said he expects used-vehicle prices will fall 5.7 percent this year, more than the 3.5 percent decline in 2023, as the market continues to recover from skyrocketing prices during the coronavirus pandemic.

Image Credit: Toyota NewsroomToyota to outshine rivals as more consumers opt for hybrids amid EV slowdownSource: Reuters

U.S. hybrid sales have been rising as consumers balk at high EV prices and are anxious about the range of electric cars, especially in more rural areas, where there could be long distances between charging stations. Battery EVs are not as widely accepted in the Midwest as they are on the West Coast and other parts of the United States, Davis said.

Shelley Zalis: More Women in Auto Retail is ‘Good for Business’Source: Automotive News

Car dealers looking to boost dealership profits might want to consider more inclusive hiring strategies. “If you want to add more revenue to your dealership, do the right thing. It’s good for business,” said Shelley Zalis, CEO of The Female Quotient, which seeks to advance equality in the workplace and raise the visibility of women across industries, including automotive. Amy Cuddy, a social psychologist and bestselling author, also challenged the auto industry to reimagine their power and how it is conveyed in the workplace.

Side Note: Give the GET IN HER LANE PODCAST a try! Executives and employees from the Toyota Chicago Region have a show and it’s pretty great. Taken from the view that women in the automotive industry have as they build careers in a traditionally male industry.

Learn More at getinherlane.com

‘Seismic shift’: driving unaffordable for many in US amid push toward SUVsLuxury vehicles, production cuts and soaring insurance prices have sent the cost of US car ownership out of controlSource: The Guardian

The average new car today sells for nearly $49,000, and the average used car lists at more than $26,000 – representing a 31% increase for new cars and nearly 40% increase for used cars since 2020, according to data from the industry group Cox Automotive.

These increases have brought the total cost of car ownership to all-time highs in a country where cars aren’t really optional. And that’s despite the easing of inflation and the supply chain issues that snarled the auto industry during the pandemic. So why are consumers still getting squeezed?

Here’s a hint: the automakers are doing great. By essentially coordinating an industry-wide production cut, the pandemic gave manufacturers power to demand mind-boggling prices for fewer cars, leading to record profits. As consumers adjusted their expectations, executives saw an opportunity to establish a lucrative new normal. Low inventory is an “opportunity to drive strong margins”, GM’s CEO, Mary Barra, told shareholders in 2022. Ford’s CEO, Jim Farley, went even further, declaring: “I want to make it extremely clear to everyone: we are going to run our business with a lower day supply than we have had in the recent past because that’s good for our company.”

Brian Moody, a senior editor at Kelley Blue Book, a car industry publication, says automakers used the pandemic to shift product lines toward higher-margin products. Instead of small cars and base models, they pivoted to luxury cars and SUVs with fully loaded trims, which turn far greater profits per sale. That means “the less expensive the car, the fewer choices you have”, says Moody. Some commentators have called the trend “trimflation”.

Efforts underway to form union at Rivian EV plant in NormalSource: 25 News

A union with almost 600,000 members is seeking to expand its ranks by organizing thousands of workers who build electric vehicles and Rivian Automotive in Normal.

The unionization effort has gained the attention of U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin (D – IL), who brought up the topic Wednesday during a meeting in Washington with Rivian founder and CEO RJ Scaringe.

The International Association of Machinists (IAM) created a Rivian Auto Union website stating that workers at the plant are “demanding fairness, respect and a voice on the job.”

Workers are being asked to sign authorization cards. If there’s enough interest, IAM will file a petition with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), which will hold a hearing to determine who at the factory would be represented by the union. The NLRB would then hold an election requiring majority support to form a union.

Meantime, Sen. Durbin on Wednesday urged Scaringe to support the workers’ collective bargaining efforts.

“Rivian took a chance on Normal, Illinois, and it has paid off. Illinois is a leader in electric vehicle production, but only because of the unrelenting efforts of Rivian and its employees,” Durbin said in a statement.

“In meeting with Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe today, I reiterated my support for the company’s mission while reminding Mr. Scaringe that Rivian employees deserve the benefits and security offered by a union if they so choose,” Durbin also said.

Moment of MuskElon Musk Had Twins With His Top Neuralink Executive, But They Never Dated — She Explains ‘He Wants Smart People To Have Kids, So He Encouraged Me To’ And He’s The Person She ‘Admires Most In The World’Source: Yahoo Finance

Elon Musk, the visionary behind Tesla and SpaceX, is also known for his distinct approach to family, as detailed in his biography by Walter Isaacson. The book sheds light on Musk’s rationale for having multiple children with different women, emphasizing his belief in the need for intelligent people to procreate.

Shivon Zilis, a senior executive at Neuralink Corp. — a company Musk helped to establish — played a pivotal role in this narrative. Initially contemplating sperm donation for childbirth, Zilis was persuaded by Musk to consider him as the donor, a proposal that aligned with Musk’s advocacy for procreation among the intellectually inclined.

“He really wants smart people to have kids, so he encouraged me to,” Zilis said.

When faced with the choice between an anonymous donor and Musk, whom she greatly admires, Zilis described the decision as straightforward.

“If the choice is between an anonymous donor or doing it with the person you admire more in the world, for me it was a pretty f***king easy decision,” she said.

This arrangement, according to Zilis, was also perceived as something that would “make him very, very happy.”

Initially, she said that she didn’t expect him to be very involved — he is the father to multiple other children with two other women. In the biography, she explains she assumed he would take on a more “godfatherly” role to the twins. However, he has been actively involved in their lives.

Trending: Are you rich? Here’s what Americans think you need to be considered wealthy.

Their decision to have children together, despite not being in a romantic relationship, stems from Musk’s broader concerns about the global decline in population. He has frequently voiced the importance of reversing this trend, especially among those with high intelligence, viewing it as crucial for civilization’s survival.

In July 2022, Musk took to X to express his commitment to addressing the underpopulation crisis, posting, “Doing my best to help the underpopulation crisis. A collapsing birth rate is the biggest danger civilization faces by far.”

The post was just one day after Insider reported on court documents detailing how Musk and Zilis petitioned for their twins’ names to be changed to include Musk’s surname and incorporate Zilis’ last name into their middle name, according to Forbes.

On Jan. 29, Musk took a significant step with Neuralink, announcing the first successful implantation of a “brain-reading” device in a person, marking a milestone in merging human cognition with technology. This advancement, coupled with his unique approach to family, highlights his multifaceted strategy to foster a smarter, more capable future generation.

Musk’s life, straddling groundbreaking technological innovations and personal choices like fathering children with “smart people,” reflects his complex approach to solving global challenges, from combating population decline to pioneering brain-computer interfaces.

Cars of the WeakEric: 1994 Toyota Celica SS-I $3,100 Source: Bring a Trailer

From the listing:

This 1994 Toyota Celica SS-I is a right-hand-drive example that is powered by a 2.0-liter inline-four mated to a four-speed automatic transaxle and is finished in black over gray cloth upholstery. It is equipped with black-finished 18″ wheels, a sunroof, a rear wing, fog lights, power windows, air conditioning, and an Addzest stereo. The car was acquired by the selling dealer in November 2022 and imported from Japan to the US. This ST202 shows 83k kilometers (~52k miles) and is offered at no reserve with a Texas title.

Daryl: 1956 Continental Mark II (Coyote Swap) – Current Bid: $51,000 Source: Bring a Trailer

From the listing:

This 1956 Continental Mark II is one of approximately 2,550 first-year examples produced and was modified under prior ownership in 2019–2020 with a 5.0-liter Coyote V8 mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and an 8.8” rear differential.

Finished in black, the shaved exterior features narrowed chrome bumpers, flush door handles, and stainless-steel side moldings. A Heidts front subframe has been added along with a four-link rear setup, coilovers, 18” alloy wheels, and four-wheel disc brakes.

The interior has been customized with brown leather upholstery, a full-length center console, Vintage Air climate control, Dakota Digital instrumentation, a Jensen touchscreen head unit, power windows, and power-adjustable front seats.

Acquired by the current owner in May 2021, this modified Mark II is now offered on dealer consignment in Arizona with a Minnesota title.

Thanks for listening, and we’ll catch you on the next episode! The post Episode 86 – Trimflation is on the Rise appeared first on Throwin' Wrenches Automotive Podcast.

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Welcome to the auto podcast that is talking stainless… and we’re not talking cutlery.

On this episode of Throwin’ Wrenches:

Brockett Built is in the house!
Actually, we are in his house.
We are talking fabrication for the next hour with Marcus Brockett. You’ll definitely want to stay tuned.

https://traffic.libsyn.com/thebeerreport/tw_85_brocket.mp3SponsorsThanks to Fort’s Toyota for their continued sponsorship. We could not do this show without their support, so please consider supporting them if you’re in the market for a new or used Toyota. Their service department is pretty amazing, too!

About Our GuestMarcus BrockettOwner/Fabricator at Brockett Built

Website: https://brockettbuilt.com/
Instagram: @brockett_built
Facebook: Brockett Built
YouTube: Brockett Built
TikTok: @BrockettBuilt
Email: Brockettbuilt@gmail.com

Eric first met Marcus at an SCCA racing event in Pekin. He pulled up with a Lexus IS wagon that was a little chopped and appeared to be one of those dudes who would be an amazing addition to the “regulars”. Since then, they have been chatting at Fort’s Toyota over the years as he has been trying to get us to do a Supra exhaust. All the while Brockett Built, formerly known as Shade 12 Fab, continues to show off his technical and artistic skills with custom exhaust work on anything with 4 wheels.

View this post on InstagramA post shared by Brockett_Built (@brockett_built)

We spent a few hours in Marcus’ central Illinois shop to learn more about his history, his current work, and where he wants to take his automotive parts fabrication business in the coming years. From custom Y-pipes and exhaust pieces for the Lexus IS platform, to SEMA Bronco builds, and even custom hunting knives… Marcus is going places with his many talents. Get to know more about him in this episode.

RemembranceWe’d like to pay our respects to the late George Beres, a central Illinois automotive legend. We had the pleasure of interviewing him in 2019 and learned a great deal about the automotive sales business.

George was a pioneer, a masterful businessman, and a wealth of knowledge about how to sell a quality product to the everyday consumer. We wish his family peace and comfort in the days ahead.

ProjectsEric Thought about a BZ4X * Was the only person in America (or at least Central Illinois) to see the film Ferrari*.

Daryl* Picked up a few NOS parts for the Cadillac this past weekend at a swap meet. * Brake light switch modifications for the ‘55 Plymouth are first up to replace the hydraulic switch with a mechanical one for safety & reliability. After that it’s all in on the Caddy.

Marcus* Hunter series knife * GX470

NewsVW Vehicles to Converse with Drivers via ChatGPT by Mid-YearSource: Reuters

Volkswagen’s voice assistant integrating ChatGPT into its cars will be able to converse with users in a back-and-forth dialogue by the middle of the year, the carmaker said on Monday as it presented the technology in Las Vegas. Volkswagen presented its first vehicles featuring ChatGPT, to be available for customers in North America and Europe from early in the second quarter of this year, at the CES electronics trade fair.

Cars of the WeakEric: 1979 Plymouth Volare CustomSource: Bring a Trailer

This 1979 Plymouth Volare Custom sedan retains its new-car sale and rustproofing paperwork from Crowley Chrysler Jeep Plymouth of Forestville, Connecticut, and remained with its first owner until December 2023, after which the selling dealer acquired it. Medium Cashmere Metallic paint is accented by stainless trim and a color-coordinated full vinyl roof, while tan vinyl upholstery lines the front and rear bench seats. A 225ci Super Six sends power to the rear wheels through a three-speed automatic transmission, and the car is further equipped with 14″ steel wheels, new narrow-whitewall tires, power steering, power-assisted front disc brakes, air conditioning, and an AM radio. This Volare shows 2,400 miles and is offered by the selling dealer with the manufacturer’s literature, receipts, and a clean South Carolina title.

Daryl: 1994 Lexus LS400 Anniversary EditionSource: Bring a Trailer

This 1994 Lexus LS400 is one of 1,800 Anniversary Editions produced and is finished in Midnight Indigo Pearl over gray leather upholstery. It is powered by a 4.0-liter V8 paired with a four-speed automatic transmission and equipment includes 16″ Anniversary Edition wheels, Traction Control, fog lights, heated power-adjustable front seats, a power-operated sunroof, cruise control, automatic climate control, a Nakamichi Premium sound system, and a cassette stereo with a remote CD changer. The car was acquired by the seller in 2022 and it now has 87k miles. This LS400 is now offered at no reserve with a clean Carfax report and a clean California title in the seller’s name.

Marcus 1985 toyota pickup sr5 4×4 5-speedSource: Bring a Trailer

This 1985 Toyota Pickup XtraCab SR5 is a 4×4 example that has been registered in California since 1990 and was acquired by the current owner in 2020. The truck was repainted white with black graphics under previous ownership, and it is powered by a 2.4-liter inline-four linked to a five-speed manual transmission and a dual-range transfer case. Additional equipment includes 15″ steel wheels, a suspension lift, front disc brakes, a spray-on bedliner, air conditioning, and an AM/FM stereo. Braking and power steering components along with the water pump, timing chain, valve cover gasket, and front main seal were replaced in preparation for the sale. This Toyota pickup is offered by the seller on behalf of the current owner at no reserve with an accident-free Carfax report and a clean California title in the owner’s name.

Thank you for listening, and we’d like to wish Marcus Brockett the best in the coming years. Mark our words: This guy is pure talent. You’ll definitely be hearing his name quite a bit. Special thanks for him for his hospitality.The post Episode 85 – Brockett Built appeared first on Throwin' Wrenches Automotive Podcast.

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https://traffic.libsyn.com/thebeerreport/TW_Christmas_2023_full_Show_3.mp3Welcome to the auto podcast that is wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

On this episode of Throwin’ Wrenches…

It’s tradition
It’s Christmas
We have some extra holiday cheer in the form of a list!

SponsorsFort’s Toyota of PekinLearn more about Toyota Care Plus and Toyota Service Care packages are on sale for the holiday season.

Patreon Family We couldn’t do this show without your support.

ProjectsEric recaps his recent trip to Rome, Italy. It’s way more exciting that Rome, Illinois. It’s also his ancestral home, and he talks about visiting relatives, eating mountains of carbonara, and taking pictures of every unique Toyota he could find that the U.S. never sees.

@planetstahl Rome…. To my favorote travel song. #roma #rome #famiglia ♬ Wonderful, Glorious – EELS

Meanwhile, Daryl is cleaning out the shelves of the Scott Auto Museum and selling stuff on eBay. Perhaps he’ll make enough money to finish getting the ’55 Cadillac running by summer.

NewsFear of Cheap Chinese EVs Spurs Automaker Dash for Affordable CarsSource: Reuters

The rise of inexpensive Chinese electric vehicles has upped the pressure on legacy automakers who have turned to suppliers, from battery materials makers to chipmakers, to squeeze out costs and develop affordable EVs quicker than previously planned. Fears of slowing demand because EVs are expensive has increased urgency to reduce costs.

Detroit touts first wireless-charging public road for electric vehicles in USSource: Detroit Free Press

The Motor City can add a new claim to fame, as home to the country’s first wireless-charging public roadway for electric vehicles.

On Wednesday, members of the news media got a chance to see it in action.

A blue electric Ford E-Transit commercial van was able to charge as it moved over a quarter-mile stretch of newly paved 14th Street, a short distance from the towering Michigan Central Station, thanks to rubber-coated copper coils buried underneath the road surface.

Why Electric Cars Could Soon Get CheaperSource: Sunday Times

Electric cars in the UK should finally become more affordable next year because new government rules will levy a fine of £15,000 per car if too few are sold.

Under the zero emission vehicle (ZEV) mandate, which comes into force on January 1, manufacturers will have to ensure that 22 per cent of cars they sell every year are fully electric. The target will rise each year, hitting 80 per cent in 2030.

If too few electric cars are sold, the manufacturer will either have to pay a £15,000 fine for each petrol, diesel or hybrid model sold above that threshold, or buy “credits” from rivals such as Tesla, which has an all-electric range.

Car manufacturers such as Toyota and Ford will be under intense pressure to sell more electric cars, which account for only 16.3 per cent of the market according to the trade body, the SMMT.

They are therefore expected to cut prices, making electric cars a little more affordable. Many people are put off by the price of an electric car, with only nine new models available for under £30,000, compared with 90 petrol or diesel models on sale for less than that price.

NTSB Says Car Commercials Encourage Wreckless Driving.Source: NBC News

Automakers often display a warning in commercials when showing a car executing incredible stunts: “Professional driver on a closed course. Please do not attempt.”

But with deaths from car crashes rising every year, experts are asking if that kind of boilerplate language, which more or less fades into the background as a vehicle burns rubber on the screen, goes far enough.

Last month, the National Transportation Safety Board called for a study of car advertisements, saying the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS) should try to determine if there is a link between commercials that show unsafe driver behavior and real-world speeding or reckless driving.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which is part of the Department of Transportation and is distinct from the independent NTSB, says that deaths in car crashes increased 27% from 2012 to 2021, the most recent year for which it has reported data.

“It’s becoming increasingly accepted that contributing factors to the increase in road deaths over the last decade or so is largely due to bad driver behavior, or risk-taking behavior,” said Zuby.

Illinois Right to Charge Law Requires New Homes and Apartments to Support EV ChargingSource: Cnet

Under Illinois’ Electric Vehicle Charging Act, new properties must be EV-capable starting in 2024. In addition, landlords and HOAs can’t unduly restrict residents from installing EV chargers.

Starting next year, new homes in Illinois will be required to support electric vehicle charging stations under a new state law signed by Gov. J.B. Pritzker on June 9.
Passed by the legislature in May, the Electric Vehicle Charging Act requires any house or multiunit building completed after Jan. 1, 2024, to have “at least one EV-capable parking space for each residential unit that has dedicated parking.” (The law also applies to existing multifamily residential buildings that are being renovated.)

Originally, the measure required every spot to be fully EV-ready with a charger in place. That was eventually walked back to require them only to be EV-capable, with conduits that would allow a charger to be installed at a future date.

Moment of Musk: Multi-Media version!We share a very special encore of The Night Before Christmas with Elon by Jen Fulwiler

Worst Christmas Car GiftsHere’s the holiday yule log everyone’s been waiting for: Our list of the 3 words Christmas ‘car” gifts we each received.

Eric1. Radar Detector… Classic situation of a friend who ran a radio shack and supported the decision. 300 bucks later plus the addition of a 12 v splitter that looked like a cow milker… Angela murdered me in 1997. 2. Portable vacuum – they all suck and not in the ways you want. Most of them get you a few uses before they won’t charge, you lose parts or they are lost in the truck. Just throw out your garbage when getting gas and use the free vacuums on a cheap 6 buck wash every couple of months!!! 3. The JSCARLIFE Universal Fry Holder for Cupholder – You can enjoy food in the car anytime and anywhere. It is also an excellent organizer of juice boxes, children’s crayons, etc. It is convenient and fast, and you don’t have to worry about food spilling.

Daryl1. The Stanley Digital Air Compressor- It sucked. Broke the first week. Fixed the solder joints at the motor and it lasted 6 months before the battery peetered out. I smashed it to pieces. 2. Those Seat Belt Cutter / Glass Hammer/ Escape Tools- I’ve gotten about 5 of them over the years. Never know where they end up, but they’re never in the car. Also, does anyone know someone who’s used one in a crash? EVER? 3. The Dash Duster Wand Thingy – Swiffer or a Microfiber does just fine.

Cars of the WeakEric: 1985 Ferrari Mondial Cabriolet – $67,000Source: Hemmings.comFrom the listing:

Clean title in hand.
Clean Carfax report, no accidents or damages.
51,0620 original miles.
Finished in classic Ferrari red with a beige interior and black convertible top.

The Ferrari Mondial was built in Maranello, Italy, and designed by Pininfarina. The QV Cabriolet model was produced between 1983 and 1985 with a small production run of 629 units worldwide. Powered by a 3.0-liter V8 engine rated at 240HP with 4 valves per cylinder. The 4-seat mid-engine Ferrari is equipped with a gated 5-speed manual transmission, air conditioning, power brakes, power steering, power windows, solid wheels, and a soft top with a boot.

Daryl: 1925 Ford Model TT Truck – $7000Source: Facebook Marketplace*From the listing:*

Body is in great condition.
Runs great but the transmission will need new bands
Currently need to make space and I do not have time for it.
Clear clean title in my name
Located in Farmington, IL

Merry Christmas & Happy HolidaysThank you for spending some time with us in 2023, and we appreciate your friendship.Take care and have a very happy & joyous holiday season!The post Episode 84 – Christmas, Compressors & Cupholder French Fries appeared first on Throwin' Wrenches Automotive Podcast.

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http://throwinwrenches.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/TW-Episode-83.mp3Welcome to the auto podcast that loves a good TLCA event … And a return guest like Mr Jacob Irish!

On this episode of Throwin’ Wrenches…

We are talking Southern Cruiser Crawl
Elon has created his version of AI chatbot
Did we mention Southern Cruiser Crawl?

All that and more on This episode of Throwin’ Wrenches.

Thanks for listening. To join in on the fun of the show, just email us at info@throwinwrenches.com or post a review on iTunes to be heard around the world!

Sponsors Fort’s Toyota of Pekin * PATREON – Thanks to our Patreon supporters. Join the club here: https://www.patreon.com/throwinwrenches * iTunes Premium – people love it!*

ProjectsEricThe camper brakes exploded.

Treehugger 1.0 is getting brakes – more on that later.

DarylIt’s a mystery.

JacobTractor stuff, brush cutter to backhoe

The new garage door got a new height

Landcruiser getting new rubber seals, rubber everything this winter, and maybe seats? Other odds and ends

@jirish85 #landcruiser #80serieslandcruiser #toyota #notav6 #inline6 ♬ Almighty Land Cruiser – DauRunner

Southern Cruiser Crawl 2023* We talk about everything that happened at this years trip. * Eric made his way back to SCC after a few years. * The friends, the food, the trails… We cover it all!

Grinding the Gears: #nofilterTruth at the drive-through?Went to Culvers tonight and saw two cars in line.. Got to the little hut that the order taker stands in and thought all was going well… until she directed me to a parking lot full of cars waiting for food.

Can we just have 20 cars piled up in line so I know that its busy?

Don’t lie to me and take my order… then make me wait 20 minutes!!!

/rant

Moment of MuskBrace yourselves. Jokes incoming. Elon Musk has announced the introduction of “Grok,” an artificially intelligent chatbot, for some users of X, which the billionaire suggests has a sarcastic sense of humor similar to his own.

Musk, who has owned X — formerly known as Twitter — for a year, announced late Saturday that Grok is being trained by having “real-time access” to information from the platform.

Musk’s AI startup, xAI, which developed the bot, said in a blogpost that it took inspiration from The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, a comedy sci-fi novel by British author Douglas Adams.

Grok “loves sarcasm,” Musk posted on X. “I have no idea who could have guided it this way.”

“Grok is designed to answer questions with a bit of wit and has a rebellious streak, so please don’t use it if you hate humor!” xAI said in its blogpost.

The bot is still in an early stage of testing, Musk said, but will soon be made available to subscribers of X’s Premium+ service, who, in the United States, pay $16 a month for features such as the once-coveted blue checkmark.

Also… Not to be confused with GROCK!

Grock (born Charles Adrien Wettach; 10 January 1880 – 14 July 1959) was a Swiss clown, composer, and musician. Called “the king of clowns” and “the greatest of Europe’s clowns”,

Grock was once the most highly-paid entertainer in Europe. That’s news to us.

Cars of the Weak

Eric1992 Toyota TownAceSource: Bring a Trailer

43k Kilometers (~27k Miles) Shown
2.0-Liter Diesel Inline-Four
Five-Speed Manual Transmission
Dual-Range Transfer Case
14″ Steel Wheels
Manually Locking Front Hubs
Column-Mounted Shifter
AM/FM Radio

This 1992 Toyota TownAce is a right-hand-drive 4X4 diesel tanker truck that was imported from Japan to the United States by the selling dealer in 2023. Finished in white over gray cloth and vinyl upholstery, the truck is powered by a 2.0-liter 2C diesel inline-four mated to five-speed manual transmission and a dual-range transfer case.

The truck is finished in white, and it features a fuel supply tank connected to an electric pump with a hose and a gauge to show liters pumped. Fire extinguishers and diamond-plate steps are additional elements. Corrosion on pumping components and other areas is shown in the gallery below.

Current Bid: $3,450Ends in2 days – SOLD FOR 14K!!!!! WTH????

Daryl1989 Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary CoupéSource: Bonhams

Ladies and gentlemen, fasten your seatbelts, because we’re about to take you on a rollercoaster ride through the glitzy and uproarious world of Hollywood’s most outrageous superstar on four wheels! Feast your eyes on the Lamborghini Countach Hero Car, the unrivaled automotive icon that left its tire marks on the silver screen in Martin Scorsese’s epic masterpiece, The Wolf of Wall Street, starring alongside none other than Leonardo DiCaprio.

The legendary Hero Car from Martin Scorsese’s modern masterpiece, The Wolf of Wall Street, complete with authenticity documentation

A rare US-spec 25th Anniversary model finished in Bianco Polo over Bianco interior
Preserved in as-filmed condition & a time capsule of the era’s extravagant debauchery
Includes a Jordan Belfort costume, a director’s chair and a clapboard, both signed by Scorsese, DiCaprio, and Robbie, 2 crew hoodies, and 2 DVDs of the film
The ultimate collector’s Item, and a legendary piece of cinematic history

Jacob:

1994 Toyota Land Cruiser HZJ81 (JDM) Source: Bring a Trailer

This 1994 Toyota Land Cruiser HZJ81 VX Limited is a Japanese-market example that was imported to the US by the selling dealer in September 2023 and is finished in black over gray cloth upholstery. Power is provided by a diesel 4.2-liter inline-six paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, a dual-range transfer case, and a locking center differential. Additional equipment includes running boards, headlight wipers, a split-folding tailgate, 16″ six-spoke Keeler wheels, heated front seats, black and gray leather seat covers, automatic climate control, and a cooled center console with an integrated ice cube tray. This Land Cruiser shows 238k kilometers (~148k miles) and is offered at no reserve by the selling dealer with manufacturer’s literature and a Maryland title.

Thanks for listening!The post Episode 83- Salina and the Southern Cruiser Crawl appeared first on Throwin' Wrenches Automotive Podcast.

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http://throwinwrenches.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/TW-Episode-82.mp3On the first Sunday in October of 2023, Eric & Angela, Daryl and Gabe grabbed a bag of gas station beef jerky and headed East to that giant corn maze known as Indiana to pay our respects to motorsports and see the only hill in the Hoosier State.

Okay, so that’s not entirely true. There’s more than one hill in Indiana, and we finally got to see the Newport Hillclimb. What is the Newport Hillclimb, you ask?

The Newport Hillclimb is a traditional hillclimb event open to vintage automobiles from 1942 and earlier, and so-called “orphan car” makes up until 1955 (as long as they didn’t continue production past 1970, such as Plymouth, Mercury, etc.)

The race, which began in 1909 as a durability test of the new-fangled horseless carriage, soldiered on until 1915 before fizzling out. The reason for the lack of interest? Something about a brickyard in Indianapolis and another, faster form of racing.

Fast-forward to the mid-1960s when the Newport Volunteer Fire Department decided to pay tribute with an antique automobile hillclimb event and the rest is history. Since then, every first Sunday in October has been “race day” for the hillclimb, where classics chug, huff and puff their way up a deceivingly steep hill in search of a trophy.

Highlights

@throwinwrenches We checked off a bucket list item this year. The annual #NewportHillClimb in Newport, Indiana was a fantastic display of art, speed and skill. Sensory overload in the best possible way! We will be back for sure! #AntiqueAutomobile #ModelT #PackardClipper #HenryJ #NashAirflyte #ChevyTruck #1940Ford #FlatheadFord #InternationalTruck ♬ Down South Camp Meeting – Benny Goodman

For us, it was a real treat to see these old machines get a workout. Most of the time, we only see Packards, Studebakers or any other old car sitting in a show field or a local cruise night parking lot. This event proved that the old stuff still enjoys being driven to the limit now and then. There are plenty of other festivities that accompany the hillclimb, including a vintage car raffle, flea market, car show, and some food vendors that put the average county fair to shame. It’s fun for the entire family, and it’s all FREE save for a modest parking fee that goes to the local volunteer fire department.

In This EpisodeWe discuss our impressions from the Newport Hillclimb, and describe what it was like to be spectators with a bird’s-eye-view of the action from just behind the barricades. We also plot out our trip for the following year, where Gabe definitely has the advantage of having two qualifying cars that could certainly give some of these old Model T’s a run for their money.

Learn MoreYou can discover more about the Newport Hillclimb on their website (which appears to be down right now) at newporthillclimb.com.

They’re also on Facebook.

They’ve also set the dates for 2024’s race:

An entire history of the Newport Hill Climb can be found on good ‘ol Wikipedia.

Pre-Show Feature: Drywall ReportGabe and Daryl share their respective garage & house remodel progress and the best/worst DIY drywall tips in the Patreon preshow. Learn more by becoming a sponsor.

Thanks for bearing with us as we’ve been juggling schedules lately! We truly appreciate your patience and look for Episode 83 very soon! The post Episode 82 – Newport Hillclimb appeared first on Throwin' Wrenches Automotive Podcast.

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https://traffic.libsyn.com/thebeerreport/tw81.mp3Welcome to the auto podcast that will not be replaced by Noonoouri, no matter how much money Warner Brothers throws at us!

On this episode of Throwin’ Wrenches…

Illinois EV Batteries?
New car inventories are filling up
The UAW is ready to deal!

All that and more on This episode of Throwin’ Wrenches.

Thanks for listening. To join in on the fun of the show, just email us at info@throwinwrenches.com or post a review on Apple Podcasts to be heard around the world!

Sponsors

| Fort’s Toyota of Pekin | Patreon Supporters |

There’s also iTunes premium, which people love.

Historical HeadlineSeptember 12, 1988 – Legendary auto designer Bill Mitchell passes awaySource: automotivehistory.com

Bill Mitchell was born on July 2, 1912, in Cleveland, Ohio. From an early age, he displayed a deep fascination with automobiles and design, a passion that would shape his life’s work. After graduating from the Carnegie Institute of Technology, he was recruited by Harley Earl to join the Art and Color section at General Motors (GM) in 1935. This marked the beginning of a legendary career that would span over four decades.

Mitchell’s ascendancy within GM, from junior engineer to chief designer at Cadillac to Director of Styling and finally to VP of styling Section, in 1958, where he oversaw all GM designs, was swift and well-deserved. His artistic sensibilities and bold creativity soon earned him the nickname “Mr. Glamour.” As he climbed the ranks, his influence on automotive design became unmistakable.

Under Mitchell’s visionary leadership as the head of GM’s Styling Section, the company introduced a new era of automotive aesthetics. He possessed a unique ability to infuse artistry into the practical world of car design. His keen eye for lines, shapes, and proportions resulted in vehicles that transcended mere transportation—they became rolling works of art. By the end of his career, he would hold responsibility for more than 72.5 million cars produced. Among them:

Bill Mitchell car designs

HeadlinesNew-vehicle inventories top 2 million for first time since April 2021Source: Automotive News

After a long, slow climb back, new-vehicle inventory levels in the United States topped 2 million last month for the first time since April 2021 as the industry continues to move away from production disruptions, according to estimates by Cox Automotive and the Automotive News Research & Data Center.

U.S. EV Share Being Driven by Tesla Price Cuts, Registration Data ShowsSource: Automotive News

U.S. market share for electric vehicles rose to 7.2 percent in the January to July period, according to new-vehicle registration data from Experian, with Tesla spurring demand with escalating price cuts throughout the year. New U.S. EV registrations rose to 655,986 in the seven-month period for a 67 percent rise over the year-earlier period when EV share was 4.9 percent. Total new light-vehicle registrations for the seven months were about 9.1 million, the data showed.

Ford hires Lisa Materazzo from Toyota as CMOSource: Automotive News

Ford Motor Co. on Tuesday said it has hired a new chief marketing officer and moved two members of the Ford family into new roles. The automaker said Lisa Materazzo, who was the top marketing executive at Toyota Motor North America, has been named CMO, effective immediately. She will report to CEO Jim Farley and lead advanced product planning and all marketing activities across the Ford Blue, Model E and Ford Pro business units. Materazzo, who had been with Toyota for 20 years, also will oversee Ford Performance and Lincoln.

UAW lowers demand for pay raises to mid-30% range as strike deadline nearsSource: Automotive News

Days before it’s threatening to strike the Detroit 3, the UAW has reduced its demand for pay raises over the next four years to the mid-30 percent range, according to people familiar with the offer. The union in recent days has made counteroffers to all three automakers that include the new target. It previously had demanded raises totaling more than 40 percent.

China’s Gotion to set up a $2 billion lithium battery plant in IllinoisSource: ManufacturingDrive.com

China’s Gotion High-tech Co Ltd (002074.SZ) will set up a $2 billion electric vehicle (EV) lithium battery manufacturing plant in Manteno, Illinois that would create about 2,600 new jobs, the state governor’s office said on Friday.

Global EV battery makers and automakers have been eyeing the North American market for setting up new manufacturing plants as they look to diversify supply chains and attract incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act.

“Gotion’s battery technology will help to boost e-mobility in North America and the economic and trade exchanges between China and the United States,” said Gotion chairman Li Zhen.

Gotion will be eligible to receive tax benefits totaling $213 million over 30 years and also get $125 million in capital funding from the U.S. state’s Reimagining Energy and Vehicles incentive package.

Gotion’s property tax abatement for 30 years was also approved by local authorities.

Once completed, the facility in Manteno is expected to produce 10 GWh of lithium-ion battery packs and 40 GWh of lithium-ion battery cells, according to the statement.

The plant is expected to begin production in 2024.

Moment of MuskElon Musk confirms he and Grimes have had a third child – and its name is as unusual as you’d expectSource: CNN

Elon Musk has confirmed that he and former partner Grimes have a third child together – and its name is just as unusual as its siblings’.

The child is called Tau Techno Mechanicus, the technology billionaire wrote in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday.

Musk, who owns the social network, was responding to a post from entertainment news account Pop Base, which named his and Grimes’ three children as “X Æ A-Xii, Exa Dark Sideræl Musk, Techno Mechanicus.”

Cars of the WeakEric: 1998 Corolla II Classic – $4,500Source: CarFromJapan.com

☆ COROLLA Ⅱ CLASSIC ☆ AW RIMS ☆ VERY CLEAN INTERIOR ☆ TIMING BELT CHANGED ☆ NO ACCIDENTS ☆

This Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) car features a Modellista body kit, and looks like something from the 1960s… but in a good way.

It needs some clear coat help, and sure it’s bizarre. But Eric would be guaranteed to be the only one around Central Illinois with one. Maybe even the United States!

Daryl: 1965 Ford Galaxie 500 Convertible – $35,000Source: Gary Ufring Classic Cars

This is an all-original 65 Galaxie 500 convertible with 20,530 actual miles. Red over red it also has a power convertible top. Historical information comes with it. The car was purchased new by a young soldier returning from Vietnam to his home in Charlotte, Virginia. He purchased the car at Grinele Motors Co in Appomattox, Virginia. Later that year, he passed away from an accidental drowning.

The family stored this car in their barn for approximately 26 years until it was finally purchased by the 2nd owner. It stayed in the barn except to get it serviced once a year. We are the third owners of this rare barn find. The Galaxie 500 has a 390ci V8 4 speed manual transmission. It has power steering, factory wire wheel coves, stainless steel side skirts, 4 barrel carb, full bench seat, seat belts and comes with a full size spare

Thanks again for listening and we’ll catch you on the next episode!The post Episode 81 – UAW Strike, Illinois EV Batteries and Stupid Baby Names appeared first on Throwin' Wrenches Automotive Podcast.

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https://traffic.libsyn.com/thebeerreport/tw_80.mp3 Would you believe that Eric almost lost the show? If you know Eric at all, you would probably believe it. As it turned out, this remote show was lost in the back of a 4Runner for a week before...

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Welcome to the auto podcast that loves a good hill climb. On this episode of Throwin’ Wrenches… We talk old and new cars running up those hills. Elon and Zuck down for a steel cage match Three more amazing...

The post Episode 79 – Running Up That Hill appeared first on Throwin' Wrenches Automotive Podcast.

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http://throwinwrenches.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/TW-Episode-78.mp3 In This Episode It’s been a hot minute since Gabe Casey dropped by, and there’s quite a lot going on in his garage of magical wonders. Things like a TOTAL GARAGE EXPANSION. We catch back up with our good...

The post Episode 78 – UK Recap & The Fortress of Gabe-itude appeared first on Throwin' Wrenches Automotive Podcast.

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Welcome to the automotive podcast that didn’t find the cats on the last show…. but we did find a 1977 Panther. More on that later in the show.

On this episode of Throwin’ Wrenches…

The year… Was 1977
The Chevrolet Caprice outsells the F150? We’ll explain!
Elon has a Chat GPT alternative

Remember, you can always email us at info@throwinwrenches.com or post a review on Apple Podcasts to be heard around the world!

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This show is named in honor of one of the worst cars ever…Presenting The 1977 Panther 6Base price: $52,000 / Engine: 8.2L twin-turbocharged V8 / Power: 600 hp
From Supercars.net

Ha! Just when you thought that you’d seen it all when it came to six-wheelers (see Covini C6W ), think again. The British-born Panther 6 is earlier (and therefore more original) take on the more-is-more school of thought and was believed to be a sign of future things to come at the time.

Clearly, the idea of driving a car with 4 wheels over the front axle didn’t really end up picking up steam, despite the Panther 6 – having been equipped with a formidable 8.2L twin-turbocharged Cadillac V8 which produced over 600 hp – putting in a good word for it. Only two were ever made, further underlining the ultimate failure of both the car and its message had any resonance.

Historical HeadlinesUSA 1977: Chevrolet Impala/Caprice takes the lead, Ford F-Series now best-selling truckAfter two years of Oldsmobile domination, the Chevrolet Impala/Caprice takes advantage of its downsizing to become America’s best-selling vehicle and passenger car with a whopping 657,151 sales, up 45% on 1976. The Oldsmobile Cutlass is now #2 with sales still up year-on-year, but at a shyer 6% to 527,939 units.

In the trucks ranking, the Ford F-Series climbs onto the pole position, and has never looked back since, holding the title of America’s best-selling truck for 34 consecutive years!

Back to passenger cars to salute the 3rd place of the Ford LTD, up 5% on last year to reach 380,499 sales, followed by the Chevrolet Monte Carlo, down one spot to #4. There are 3 newcomers in the Top 10: the Ford Granada directly to 5th place with 355,186 sales, the Ford Thunderbird at #6 and 325,153 units and the Buick Century in 10th position with 279,657 sales.

World NewsPorsche 356: 75th Anniversary” Celebrates the Sports Car’s Diamond Jubilee and Doesn’t Shy Away from the Model’s Dark Wartime PastSource: Car & Driver

Gordon Maltby bought his first Porsche 50 years ago and his latest just this year. Between those two purchases, he has owned around three dozen cars from the sporting German marque. But he has always been fond of the 356.

In fact, he wrote one of the first comprehensive books on the model, Porsche 356 and RS Spyders, in 1991, and for decades acted as the editor-in-chief of 356 Registry, the official magazine of the 356 owners’ club. “The 356, of course, is the original Porsche,” he says.

Now, Maltby has taken that longtime love of the brand and nameplate and assembled it all into a fascinating, well-written, and beautifully illustrated coffee table book, Porsche 356: 75th Anniversary (Motorbooks, $75). And it’s coming out just in time for the bathtub-shaped sports car’s diamond jubilee.

The book’s strength lies in its straightforward writing dosed with just the right amount of technical detail. It also benefits from comprehensive storytelling with plenty of insider anecdotes and delves deeply into the complex history of the manufacturing of the 356, an area that has not been substantially covered in previous accounts of the model’s 17-year lifespan.

“The book specifically is focused on the relationship between Reutter and Porsche,” Maltby says, naming the local German coachbuilder (karosserie) that was responsible for constructing bodies for the 356 and executing the complex and innovative aluminum and/or steel forms.

The book is also an excellent resource on the vehicles designed and engineered in the early years of the Porsche consultancy, in the decades before 1948 when Ferdinand and Ferry Porsche released the first car to bear their last name. “I think a modern Porsche enthusiast maybe doesn’t have a very good idea of the fact that Ferdinand Porsche worked in the automotive industry for 50 years before the 356 was built.”

Ford’s Oakville plant in Canada will build EVs starting in 2024Source: Automotive News

Ford Motor Co. on Tuesday said the previously announced $1.3 billion transformation of its Oakville Assembly Plant for electric vehicle manufacturing will begin in the second quarter of next year and take about six months to complete. During that time some of the 3,000 workers at the Ontario, Canada, site will be furloughed, although the company expects to retain virtually all of the employees when the plant comes back online at the end of 2024.

Furious drivers resort to stealing traffic cameras ahead of £12.50 daily chargeSource: The Mirror

Sadiq Khan’s Ultra Low Emission Zone scheme is already estimated to have raked in almost £250 million since it was first implemented in 2019 and more protests have been staged over its expansion. Seething Londoners have been reduced to stealing Ultra-Low Emission Zone cameras and cutting wires as fury mounts over the government’s controversial expansion.

Major Sadiq Khan is facing more backlash over his plan to include all 32 London boroughs in the idea dubbed a ‘pure money-making scheme’ by angry protestors. He yesterday defended his detested ULEZ project by claiming it will give men higher sperm counts because of the reduction in air pollution. From August 29, the enlargement will be rolled out meaning an estimated 700,000 more car owners must pay £12.50 daily charge to travel around the capital.

ULEZ cameras are reported to have been ripped from their bases and damaged with claims some of the registration detection devices have had their wires cut. City Hall said in a statement: “As of 21 March 2023, there had been 31 instances of vandalism or theft to ULEZ cameras within the expansion zone. Within the existing zone, there had been 12 instances of vandalism or theft.

National NewsWhy Leasing an EV Might Be the Smarter Choice Right NowSource: NADA

Federal tax credits for electric vehicle (EV) purchases are about to disappear for many models under newly released IRS rules, but savvy shoppers are finding a workaround by leasing, rather than buying, their new car. Why it matters: President Biden’s effort to expand EV adoption through newly revised tax credits is proving to be unworkable for many of today’s models, creating confusion and frustration for automakers, dealers and consumers.

Local NewsCentral Illinois Cars and CoffeeEric and Daryl break down the recent venue change for Central Illinois Cars & Coffee and the social media drama that unfolded. Tearing down one another isn’t what we need to be doing in this hobby. The moral of the story is people should be more supportive when it comes to local events. If you’ve got a better idea, get involved or start your own event.

Grinding the GearsWhat do Ice T, Allen Iverson, and Rick Flair have in common?

They all pitch Car Shield!

Imagine the scene: It’s a barber shop anywhere in the United States. A barber needs advice on a repair for his car, so he asks his customer in the chair… Known automotive expert or acting as one… ICE T! What should he do?

Thankfully, ICE T has the answer (not the answer answer. )The Answer must have been Allan Iverson’s nickname. Do You remember Iverson? The guy who couldn’t show up for “practice”. Suddenly, he now knows a lot about car warranties.

If this commercial didn’t go far enough into the d level celebrity ditch, another customer in chair chimes in… It’s a crazy-eyed Rick Flair doing his best impression of former Democratic leader Howard Dean. YEAHHHHHHHH!

Chris Berman is driving around the nation like he’s the poor mans John Madden in his CarShield MegaBus doing the worst city tour since Wesley Snipes was a spokesman for H&R Block.

OK… Eric made that part up. It would have been better than the Berman Bus!

Cars of the WeakEric: Porsche 911

Source: Facebook Marketplace

Daryl: 1986 Dodge Aires LE Station Wagon – $6,999Source: Riverside Chevrolet

You can’t go wrong with the classics! This vintage beauty is in mint condition with only 98k miles. Take a trip back in time with this wood-paneled station wagon. It will certainly have everyone talking!

This car was on BaT and sold for $4,100.

Catch you on the flipside! The post Episode 77 – Panthers, Cars & Coffee and Ice-T appeared first on Throwin' Wrenches Automotive Podcast.

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Welcome to the auto podcast that didn’t find the cats on the last show. Thanks, Regan!

With some help from our friend Gabe Casey, we will try to find them on this episode.

Episode highlights* We are talking kegs and cats! * Rivian and Amazon: What’s going on? * Elon is building a utopia in Texas.

Remember kids, you can join in on the fun anytime by sending us email at info@throwinwrenches.com or hitting us up on Facebook.

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Preshow PlugPatreon and iTunes Premium members will get to enjoy an extra hour of material featuring Gabe’s latest escapades and Eric’s health advice for people over 50. You know you want to listen to that, right?

We thought so.

Also, all medical advice is anecdotal and not to be taken seriously. We are not doctors. Heck we’re barely humans. Enjoy at your own risk.

NewsGM Looks to Deepen Mining Ties With Stake in Brazil’s ValeSource: The Wall Street JournalGeneral Motors Co. has discussed taking a small stake in Brazilian miner Vale SA’s base metals unit, a business that mines and processes nickel and other metals crucial to building electric vehicle batteries, according to people familiar with the matter. Vale said in December it would consider selling up to a 10% stake in the business, without disclosing a potential sale price. A stake of that size could be valued at as much as $2 billion, according to some of the people. Global automakers are racing to lock in enough battery resources to support their electric-vehicle-sales targets in coming years.

Volvo CEO stirs up new angst among U.S. dealersSource: Automotive NewsVolvo Cars will introduce a direct-to-consumer sales model in the United Kingdom by the end of this year. And the Swedish automaker intends to export the concept to additional markets. The notion is already causing unease among Volvo’s American dealers. Former Dyson exec and Volvo’s newly minted CEO, Jim Rowan, stated he believes the normal means of promoting big-ticket autos by way of third events is “flawed.”

Rivian In Talks With Amazon To Get Rid Of Van Exclusivity ClauseMove could allow Rivian to sell its electric delivery vans to other fleet and retail customers.Source: Inside EVsElectric vehicle startup Rivian Automotive and its largest shareholder and customer Amazon are reportedly in talks to end the exclusivity part of their electric van deal.

According to a report from The Wall Street Journal citing people familiar with the matter, Amazon informed the EV maker it wanted to buy about 10,000 vans this year. The number was at the low end of a range it previously provided Rivian.

In response, Rivian proposed removing the exclusivity terms, which would allow the company to sell its Electric Delivery Vehicles (EDV) to other fleet and retail customers, increasing revenues. The sources added that the talks are ongoing.

Special Cat Section:Catalytic Converter News Roundup‘Cat’ Thefts Continue, Could Get WorseSource: Auto Dealer Today
The jump in catalytic converter thefts since the pandemic continues and could worsen. Statistics compiled by the National Insurance Crime Bureau, a group focused on preventing and prosecuting insurance crime, show theft of “cats” skyrocketed 1,215% from 2019 and 2022. A congressional bill supported by the National Automobile Dealers Association has been reintroduced to fight the thefts. The Preventing Auto Recycling Theft Act, or PART, would require new vehicles’ VINs to be stamped on their converters, making stolen parts traceable, and create a grants program to pay for the marking of existing vehicles.

Catalytic Converter Thefts Are on the Rise Across the Country. Russia Could Make It Worse.Source: Auto Remarketing

There has been a stark rise in catalytic converter thefts across the country since 2019 and there’s a chance Russia could make it worse. Each of the metals has faced supply chain issues since the pandemic occurred, but Russia may limit its imports of palladium, according to the Times. As of March 2022, Russia is responsible for exporting approximately 40% of the world’s palladium, the Times reported, citing Moody Analytics.

NADA notes: Catalytic converter theft proposal & Assurant donationSource: Auto Remarketing

A couple of developments surfaced this week after the National Automobile Dealers Association wrapped up NADA Show 2023. First, NADA welcomed the reintroduction of the Preventing Auto Recycling Theft (PART) Act (S. 154) by four U.S. Senators. Then, the association’s workforce initiative received a $30,000 donation from Assurant.

Bill cracking down on catalytic converter thefts goes into effect in OregonA new law aimed at stopping catalytic converter thefts went into effect in Oregon in 2022. Senate Bill 803 works to stop the spike in catalytic converter thefts by limiting which metal recycling companies can buy them, creating a barrier for people selling on the black market.
Those approved buyers are only allowed to take “legitimately acquired catalytic converters” and keep the make, model year, VIN and license number of the vehicle it came from to redeem their value.
According to the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office, this stops “those unscrupulous commercial vendors willing to buy stolen catalytic converters” from making any profits.
“Beer kegs are made up of valuable metal, yet we don’t have an epidemic of beer keg theft. That’s because there are market protections in place that make it nearly impossible to profit from selling them because there are no buyers,” said Multnomah County Senior Deputy District Attorney Kevin Demer.
The bill was fast-tracked to curb the dramatic rise in thefts across the region.
“We can’t rely only on arrest and prosecution to solve this problem. SB 803 strikes at the heart of catalytic converter theft by taking away the market. This will help us get upstream of this scourge and allow us to focus our limited resources more effectively,” Multnomah County DA Mike Schmidt said.

Legislation Introduced to Combat Catalytic Converter TheftsSource: Automotive FleetU.S. Rep. Neal Dunn, R-Fla., reintroduced a bipartisan bill Thursday mandating that vehicle owners and independent repair shops have the same access to repair and maintenance tools and data as automakers and their franchised dealerships. The bill — known as the Right to Equitable and Professional Auto Industry Repair Act — was previously introduced last year by Illinois Democratic Rep. Bobby Rush, who retired after his term ended Jan. 4.

Elon Musk Offers Another Brazen Prediction After Photo of Cybertruck Goes ViralSource: The Street

After having downplayed the rollout of the Tesla (TSLA) – Get Free Report Cybertruck, CEO Elon Musk has continued to tweet about it. Cybertruck sightings on public roads have been reported over the last week, and Musk has been popping into the comments of some of these posts on social media.

“Yeah, still many small tweaks to make it better (and the side mirrors are removable by owner), but this is very close to production design,” Tesla CEO Musk said in a Feb. 3 tweet.
In another tweet on Feb. 10, Musk offered a thought about the Cybertruck’s impact.
“It will change the look of the roads,” wrote @elonmusk.

Musk hasn’t committed to a specific timeline on any shipments yet, however.
“We do expect production to start, I don’t know, maybe sometime this summer,” Musk said on a January 26 conference call. “But I always like to try to downplay the start of production because the start of production is always very slow. It increases exponentially, but it’s always very slow at first. So I wouldn’t put too much thought into the start of production. It’s kind of when volume production actually happens, and that’s next year.”

Meanwhile in the Twitterverse…

Musk Forced Algorithm Change to Help Boost His Tweets, Platformer SaysSource: Bloomberg via Yahoo! News
Elon Musk had Twitter Inc. engineers working late on Sunday to alter his social network’s algorithm and prioritize his tweets, resulting in a glut of them in users’ feeds on Monday, according to a report by Platformer.
The billionaire Twitter owner was said to be unhappy with the number of views of his Super Bowl tweet. As a result of his request, Twitter excluded Musk’s tweets from filters designed to improve the quality of users’ timelines, Platformer said, and artificially boosted them by a factor of 1,000. Users across Twitter complained about seeing an abundance of the owner’s missives on the day following the Super Bowl.
Musk’s message of support for the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday got significantly lower engagement than US President Joe Biden expressing a similar sentiment. The company’s chief has been increasingly focused on — and frustrated by — his personal engagement numbers, which have been dropping in recent weeks, the report said. Musk has nearly 129 million followers, whereas Biden’s account has 37 million.

Before taking the company private in a $44 billion deal in October, the Tesla Inc. chief executive officer spoke of his desire to make it an even playing field and eliminate bias in the system. Twitter didn’t immediately respond to an emailed request for comment. Musk tweeted liberally about Twitter and its functionality after the publication of the report but didn’t address its content. Earlier, he tweeted a meme suggesting his tweets were going to be force-fed to Twitter users. He also said the company was making adjustments to the algorithm.

Cars of the WeakEric: 1959 MG MGAThis 1959 MG MGA is a black-over-tan roadster that was completed on January 13, 1959 for the North American export market and is said to have remained in long-term ownership in Alabama until 2011 after which it was acquired by the seller as a non-running project in August 2015. Subsequent work included rebuilding the 1.5L inline-four and four-speed manual transmission, replacing the wiring harness, refurbishing the instrumentation, and installing leather upholstery. Additional equipment consists of 15″ wire wheels with chrome knock-offs, chrome front and rear bumpers, dual SU carburetors, a black soft top and side curtains, a tonneau cover, and lap belts. This MGA roadster is now offered at no reserve with parts invoices, a tool kit, repair manuals and literature, a British Motor Industry Heritage Trust (BMIHT) certificate, and Georgia registration.

Daryl: 1962 Ford t-Bird M-Code $10,000Source: Facebook Marketplace

1962 Thunderbird M-code
As is
Not running
They only made a few hundred m-codes in 1962.
Been in dry storage for most of its life.

Why does Daryl like stuff that doesn’t run?

Gabe: 1949 Dodge Power Wagon – $38,000Source: Facebook Marketplace

Mostly original, added disc brakes, power steering, tires and rims.

PTO winch, 4×4

It’s in Pekin, so this is close to being feasible.

As always, thanks for listening!The post Episode 76: Cybertruck & the Search for Lost Catalytic Converters appeared first on Throwin' Wrenches Automotive Podcast.

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AI-generated and proud!Welcome to the auto podcast that’s hunting for lost cats. But then decided to talk about Techs.

Well, that was the plan… We had some stories about catalytic converters and a Moment of Musk all set up for this show… And then Eric and Regan had one of their “state of the automotive technician” conversations they have when they are talking at work.

Let’s talk about techs… Baby. Let’s talk about what the automotive technician and his roles look like in the future. Let’s REALLY talk about it. So we kinda free-formed this episode for a few reasons. One, we had a returning professional guest who added a great deal of insight into a topic many listeners in the automotive industry find to be a growing concern: The challenges facing the future of the automotive service industry. .None of this Mike Rowe, everything is glorious in the trades BS we are hearing. Also… What are you getting when you hit the trade schools? Who is the tech of the future?

There’s a lot of great conversation in this episode. We know you’ll enjoy it.

We will have those cat stories in a week or two… You’ll survive! Maybe we can get a law expert on the next ep?

http://throwinwrenches.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/TW75_-_Regan.mp3Special GuestReganThanks for listening. To join in on the fun of the show, just email us at info@throwinwrenches.com or post a review on Apple Podcasts to be heard around the world!

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We’ll be back in a few with more automotive nonsense. As always, thanks for listening to the show.

The post Episode 75 – Tech Talk With Regan appeared first on Throwin' Wrenches Automotive Podcast.

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Welcome to the auto podcast that you deserve.

On this episode of Throwin’ Wrenches…

Uber wants a car. Would you drive it?
Are Renault and Nissan finally over Carlos?
Will Jeremy Clarkson ever work again?

All that and more on this episode of Throwin’ Wrenches.

Thanks for listening. To join in on the fun of the show, just email us at info@throwinwrenches.com or post a review on Apple Podcasts to be heard around the world

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We couldn’t do this without your support. Thank you!

FeedbackThanks to South Hill Customs and ARRow7 for sharing reviews of the show on Apple Podcasts. Your stickers are in the mail, friends!

As always:

Thanks for listening.
Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for commenting.

ProjectsEric shops for tires for Treehugger 3.0, and contemplates a mild lift at the same time. He also talks about his recent plumbing work.

Daryl discusses the joys of plastic fasteners while replacing headlights in his Dad’s 2008 Saturn Vue. He also receives his newly-restored Bendix power brake booster for the ’55 Caddy.

World NewsNissan, Renault near rebalancing of allianceSource: Japan Today

Nissan and Renault are nearing a “historic” rebalancing of their auto alliance, with a deal likely to be announced in the coming weeks, a source close to the talks said Tuesday.

The Japanese and French giants have been wrestling with a reshaping of their partnership for months, with discussions including a reduction of Renault’s hefty 43.7 percent stake in Nissan.

The pair joined forces in 1999 and were later joined by Mitsubishi Motors, but the union has been contentious, particularly in recent years.

The source, speaking on condition of anonymity, said Nissan’s independent directors had “given their green light” to a deal, paving the way for a “historic” agreement.

Final details are expected to be ironed out at a meeting in Japan on January 26, with the signing and an announcement the following week, the source added.

A Nissan spokeswoman declined to comment on “speculation”, but Japan’s Yomiuri Shimbun daily also reported the deal was close to completion, and Jiji news agency said Renault’s CEO would be in Japan over the weekend.

Renault is expected to reduce its stake in Nissan to 15 percent, matching the size of the Japanese firm’s stake in its French partner.

Ghosn’s Daring Escape Cost His Extraction Crew Their FreedomSource: Bloomberg

The father and son sentenced to serve time in a Japanese prison for smuggling Carlos Ghosn out of the country in a large musical-equipment case were transferred to the U.S. a week ago, ending another chapter of the corporate saga involving the former chairman of Nissan Motor Co. and Renault SA.

Michael Taylor, the father and a former U.S. Green Beret, and his son Peter Taylor were imprisoned last year after they pleaded guilty to helping the auto industry executive flee trial in late 2019 and make his way to Beirut. Ghosn was arrested in Japan in 2018 on charges of underreporting income and other corporate crimes, which he has denied.

The Federal Bureau of Prisons flew both out of Japan late in October after the two governments agreed to let them serve the remainder of their sentences in the U.S., according to Peter, who was released soon after arrival. Michael is set to be freed soon, pending procedural matters, he added. A call to a spokesperson for the Tokyo prosecutor’s office was unanswered on Saturday.

“It’s been a long time coming,” Peter Taylor said from Massachusetts, adding that he’s trying to regain some of the weight he lost in prison. “It feels great. It’s difficult to put into words.”

With Ghosn out of reach — Lebanon doesn’t extradite its citizens — the pair’s situation became a proxy in Japan for Ghosn and his case. Greg Kelly, a former Nissan director who was detained on the same day as his boss, was exonerated of most charges and left Japan earlier this year. He is appealing the verdict.

Michael Taylor received a sentence of two years while Peter Taylor was ordered to serve 20 months in prison.

After spending time in jail in Japan, Ghosn was free on bail when he staged his escape. Ghosn traveled to Osaka’s airport on Dec. 29, 2019, by bullet train. From there, he was rolled onto a private jet that flew to Istanbul, where he switched planes and made his way to Beirut.

The duo had apologized to prosecutors and Japan’s justice system, saying that helping Ghosn flee was a mistake. Michael Taylor has never denied his involvement in the escape, speaking in court last year about how he organized and carried out the brazen operation. Peter’s role is less clear.

Amazon Likely to Part Ways With Jeremy Clarkson After Final Commissioned Shows Go to Air; ‘Grand Tour’ Host Sent Email Apology to Harry & MeghanSource: Variety

Amazon Prime Video is likely to be parting ways with Jeremy Clarkson mere weeks after his comments about Meghan Markle were published in British tabloid The Sun.

Sources tell Variety that the streaming service won’t be working with Clarkson beyond seasons of “The Grand Tour” and “Clarkson’s Farm” that have already been commissioned. This means that the notorious “Top Gear” presenter likely won’t be appearing in any new shows on Prime Video beyond 2024 (though there’s every chance a final “Grand Tour” episode could carry over into 2025).

Prime Video already has a number of shows in the works with Clarkson, which are going to go ahead, but the decision effectively means that “Clarkson’s Farm” will end with Season 3 (expected in 2024). It also means that motoring format “The Grand Tour,” one of Prime Video’s biggest shows, will also come to an end. Variety understands the series will conclude after four more special episodes — the last of which is expected to land in late 2024.

In a lengthy statement posted to his official Instagram on Monday afternoon, Clarkson says, “I really am sorry. All the way from the balls of my feet to the follicles on my head. This is me putting my hands up. It’s a mea culpa with bells on.”

The extensive apology for his December comments — in which Clarkson suggested Markle be made to “parade naked” through Britain while people “throw lumps of excrement at her” — comes a day ahead of a planned press conference for “Clarkson’s Farm.” (The promotional event for Season 2 of the show, launching on Feb. 10, was scheduled just days prior to Clarkson’s comments.)

National NewsPhoto Credit: ArrivalUber wants its future to have three-wheeled cars, face-to-face seatsSource: CNN Business

Uber drivers don’t always need four wheels, front-facing passenger seats and top speeds over 50 miles an hour just to drive people or deliveries from one place to another in a city. So Uber is working with automakers to create custom-built cars for urban ride- hail and delivery work, Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi said.

Custom-made electric vehicles with three wheels, for instance, could “have a much smaller footprint in terms of environmental but also traffic flow” than typical passenger cars, Khosrowshahi said in an interview with the the Wall Street Journal on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. The discussion is shown in a video posted in the Journal’s website. Uber has said that it will offer only fully electric rides in the United States and Europe by 2030. Uber is already working with the electric commercial vehicle startup Arrival to create a a car just for ride-hailing applications.

In Uber’s custom ride-hail vehicles, Khosrowshahi said, passengers might sit facing one another to ease interaction rather than facing forward as occupants typically do in cars. Many cities, like New York, have low-speed limits which make higher horsepower, and, in turn, large and expensive battery packs, unnecessary.

Obnoxiously loud car? A traffic camera might be listeningSource: AP News

After the relative quiet of the pandemic, New York City has come roaring back. Just listen: Jackhammers. Honking cars and trucks. Rumbling subway trains. Sirens. Shouting.

Over the years, there have been numerous efforts to quiet the cacophony. One of the latest: traffic cameras equipped with sound meters capable of identifying souped-up cars and motorbikes emitting an illegal amount of street noise.

At least 71 drivers have gotten tickets so far for violating noise rules during a yearlong pilot program of the system. The city’s Department of Environmental Protection now has plans to expand the use of the roadside sound meters.

“Vehicles with illegally modified mufflers and tailpipes that emit extremely loud noise have been a growing problem in recent years,” said City Council member Erik Bottcher, who heralded the arrival of the radars to his district to help reduce “obnoxious” noise.

New York City already has one of the most extensive noise ordinances in the country, setting allowable levels for a host of noisemakers, such as jackhammers and vehicles.

A state law known as the Stop Loud and Excessive Exhaust Pollution Act, or the SLEEP Act, that went into effect last spring raised fines for illegal modifications of mufflers and exhaust systems.

Most New Car Buyers Are Now Paying Less Than Sticker PriceSource: CNN

A year ago, record tight inventories meant 80% of buyers were paying more than the manufacturers’ suggested retail price (MSRP), or sticker price, according to data from Edmunds. For decades, car buyers had been able to negotiate a discount. Today, only 36% of buyers are paying above sticker. After paying an average of $700 above MSRP in the spring, buyers paid an average of $300 less than sticker in December.

Wyoming Pushes EV Sales ‘Phaseout,’ But Senator Behind Legislation Shrugs at Its ProspectsSource: Automotive News

Wyoming State Senator Jim Anderson sponsored a bill last week that, if enacted, would phase out new electric vehicle sales in the state by 2035. However, Anderson told Automotive News on Wednesday, he doesn’t intend for it to pass, and he doesn’t begrudge anybody buying EVs. The bill comes as a number of other states are moving in the opposite direction, eyeing the end of gasoline-powered vehicle sales in favor of electrics and plug-in hybrids.

Local NewsIs it legal to ride in the back of a pickup truck in Illinois?Source: CIProud

If you grew up in Illinois with someone who owned a pickup truck, chances are you rode in the bed of that truck at least once or twice.

There are a lot of reasons one might ride in the back of a truck, especially since it can feel liberating to do so. But is it legal?

Although there aren’t any specific laws banning passengers from riding in the cargo area, Illinois law requires that everyone in the vehicle wears a seatbelt.

Additionally, children under the age of 16 must be secured by a seat belt or child safety seat under the Child Passenger Safety Act. It’s also illegal to ride in a tow vehicle on a public highway, such as a trailer, semitrailer, or wagon.

In other words, you cannot legally ride in the back of a pickup truck in Illinois, as there are no seatbelts to secure anyone riding in it.

Other states also have restrictions on who can ride in the bed of a truck or trailer. For example, drivers in Texas transporting anyone younger than 18 in the bed of a truck or on a trailer can face a fine between $25 and $200.

Regardless of age, the risk of traveling without a seatbelt still exists, and drivers should be aware of how dangerous traveling with riders in the back of a truck or trailer can be.

Cars of the WeakEric: 2023 Winnebago Class B RV Solis 59P – $99,900Source: RV Trader

2023 Winnebago Solis 59P w/ Pop Top, 19’9”, No Slides, 3.6L V6 Gas, 2022 Ram ProMaster Chassis, 220 Watt Flexible Surface Solar Panel, Electric PS, Dash Air, Cruise, Radio/Rearview Monitor System w/ Touchscreen, USB Ports, Digital Rearview Mirror, Push Button Start, Full Speed Forward Collision Warning Plus, Pedestrian Automatic Emergency Braking System, Post Collision Braking, Crosswind Assist, Power Mirrors w/ Defrost, Slide/Swivel/Recline Cab Seats, Front Cab Air Mattress, Side Screen Door, Rear Screen Door, Aluminum Running Board w/ Pet Loop Attachment, Rod & Privacy Screen For Rear Annex, Exterior Wash Station, Truma Combi Eco Heating System, Eco Hot Water System, Heated Drainage System, Monitor Panel, USB Charging Ports, Zipped Window Coverings, 2 Burner Range Top, 3.0 Cu. Ft. (12V) Single Door Compressor Driven Fridge/Freezer, Sink, Dinette Seating (w/ Seatbelts), Removable Pedestal Table, Wet Bath w/ Swiveling Cassette Toilet & Shower, Murphy+ Bed w/ Slat Bed System, Movable Table, Deluxe Powered Ventilator Fan in Bedroom Area, Pop-Top Sleeping Area w/ Froli Sleep System, Sleeps 5, Nomad Interior (Beige), Weathered Teak Wood, Bright Silver Exterior

Daryl: 1966 Dodge Coronet 500 Convertible – $54,998Source: Volo Auto Museum and Sales

From the listing: Outstanding body! Laser beam straight, the gaps are precise. No rust or damage. The bright red paint is polished like glass. You would have to look really close to find a flaw. It even feels slick like teflon. Bright white power top. Our shop replaced the top cylinder and bled the system. We aligned the windows and repaired the regulators. The Magnum 500 wheels sparkle like new. They are wrapped in reproduction Wide Oval redline tires.

Correct 383 big block with a 4 barrel carb. All stock including manifolds, valve covers, air cleaner etc. All the components look like new- alternator, wiper motor, master cylinder, distributor etc.

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Welcome to the automotive podcast that loves lists.

On this episode of Throwin’ Wrenches, we talk through the “Top Ten” things that have ground our gears in recent months, and get quite a lot off of our hairy chests.

Speaking of hairy chests, we also talk about the projects we have in our respective garages. Since we’re stuck in the midst of a brutal Midwestern winter storm, those projects will likely have to wait for a warmer day.

If you have suggestions for future shows, or you just want to spread some holiday cheer, feel free to drop us a line at info@throwinwrenches.com.

Also, would someone please post a review on Apple Podcasts so Eric feels better about himself? We’ll send you a sticker or something.

https://traffic.libsyn.com/thebeerreport/TW_72_Christmas_2022_96kbs.mp3Sponsors

| Fort’s Toyota of Pekin | Gabe Casey | Patreon Members |

Grinding the GearsIn each episode of Throwin’ Wrenches, there are often a lot of angry old-man-moments on the show that we like to distill into a segment called “Grinding the Gears”. Some folks can relate. Some can appreciate. Others likely just listen and collectively shake their heads.

2022 brought more than a few challenges with it, and we are extremely grateful for the legendary Gabe Casey stepping in to help us round out the show. We couldn’t have done it without him. However, that meant that Eric and Daryl had to gather up a lot of bottled-up anger and get it off of their (okay, they’re not-that-hairy) chests and package it up with a bow on it for this holiday special.We proudly present our Top Ten Grinding the Gears items for 2022.1. Dodge Challengers and Chargers that rev up their car at all times… to hear the rumble. (Eric) * Even at 35MPH when I am passing them in my Prius! 2. Pouring out your sticky beverage in parking lots or the gas station. (Eric) * This is a constant. Whenever I park anymore, it’s almost a certainty that I will stick to the pavement like an old movie theatre because somebody decided to dump their 72oz big gulp on the ground outside their car door. 3. Gas prices varying county to county. (Eric) * Why is Tazewell County gas 40 cents more expensive than Mclean county? * Where is the transparency in taxation so I can start yelling at my local officials? 4. Oral hygiene products and all litter on the roadsides make my list. (Eric) * Big moves to take away motorized routes through Bureau of Land Management land with President Biden and a Democratic-controlled congress. It’s almost self-inflicted by the morons who don’t clean up after themselves. Stay the trail and leave no trace are the law when off-roading. 5. If the same guy who is telling you to buy gold on the radio is also recommending automotive warranties… Run away. (Eric) * American Auto Shield is garbage. Most other non-manufacturer warranties are. Stop supporting those businesses!!! 6. As cold weather sets in, is it possible for any auto manufacturer to make an HVAC blower motor that doesn’t squeak or make the death moan under 32 degrees? (Daryl) * From the ‘47 Chevy to the ‘69 Volvo to the newer drivers… they ALL make noise until they thaw out. Are bronze bushings too pricey? Let’s put some gold ones in there and call it a day. 7. YouTube “car channels” where they lead you through a Grimm’s Fairy Tale before getting to the content. (Daryl) * It’s the equivalent of those recipe sites that tell a story about the queso dip’s origin story while the recipe card is 4 pages in. Just gimme the dip, yo. 8. Older car hobbyists crapping on those whose tastes don’t align with theirs. (Daryl) * Not everyone likes Mustangs. Not everyone likes Cutlass Cieras. Deal with it and stop pissing in the pool we’re all swimming in. 9. Parking your cool stuff because it’s “too expensive to drive”. (Daryl) * The worst thing you can do is let stuff sit. Get it out there. If you don’t drive it, you don’t need it. Sell it off to someone who needs that in their life and will do it justice. 10. EV hatred (Eric & Daryl) * From the anti-Rivian crowd here in central Illinois to the larger disdain for all things electric, we just don’t get it anymore. While some of us don’t plan on plunking down $60k to buy one anytime soon, maybe this is where we’ll eventually end up in our later motoring years. EV’s hey can still be fun. They can be quick and sporty. They’re not the greatest or most efficient right now, but for a daily driver they seem to make sense to a LOT of us. This leads us perfectly into our final semi-musical segement.

Bonus Holiday Sing-a-Long: The 12 EV Trucks of ChristmasA Christmas show wouldn’t be complete without a sing-a-long segment, so Eric whipped up a lovely little rendition of The Twelve Days of Christmas, but replaced all of the dumb birds with much more practical gifts… EV trucks that are currently available in the marketplace.

We’d like to apologize in advance. Enjoy!

| Tesla Cyber TruckFord F150 LightningRivian R1TLordstown EnduranceCanoo Pickup TruckNikola Badger | Atlis XTEdison Futures EFT-1 TruckBollinger B1 MOABAlpha Motors Electric WolfDongfeng Rich 6 EVGMC Hummer EV |

From all of us here at Throwin’ Wrenches, we would like to extend the warmest of holiday wishes to all of our listeners. We consider you great friends and appreciate your support of this little automotive podcast. We promise to keep the heated seats on for you in 2023.

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year to all!The post Episode 73 – Grinding the Gears & The 12 EV Trucks of Christmas appeared first on Throwin' Wrenches Automotive Podcast.

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Download Welcome to the auto podcast that… is settling in for a cold, hard winter. On this episode of Throwin’ Wrenches… GM Workers, it’s time to come back to the office. Mayor Pete wants more bike lanes Does anyone want...

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Download Episode Welcome to the automotive podcast that is still recovering from Spoon River Drive. On this episode of Throwin’ Wrenches… We have a lawyer in the house! Welcome back Mr. Gabe Casey It’s official… Lordstown is making trucks. Blue...

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Welcome to the auto podcast that… is making for lost time! On this episode of Throwin’ Wrenches: Volkswagen plans for one of the biggest IPO’s in history. GM gives Buick dealers a deadline to get on the E-V train. Inflation...

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Sorry to disappoint, but this is not the Autopodcast that and lets Gabe and Daryl prattle on about one dudes garage… this time. On this episode of Throwin’ Wrenches… More German emission woes Flaming Hyundai’s: Oh my! Two-way traffic is...

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Download Welcome to the automotive podcast that has to “collect them all”. On this episode of Throwin’ Wrenches… Rivian is poised to take over the title of King of SUVs. Russia goes old school by bringing back the classic Lada....

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Welcome to the Autopodcast that always takes the cake. Birthday cake, that is. Daryl and our friend Gabe Casey just celebrated birthdays one day apart this month, and their present to you is this special edition of Throwin’ Wrenches...

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https://traffic.libsyn.com/thebeerreport/TW_61_Final.mp3 The Autopodcast that knows the waiting is the hardest part. (At least that’s what Tom Petty used to say. ) On this episode of Throwin’ Wrenches… Nissan pushes back the release date for their next-generation Z-car. Want Android Auto...

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Welcome to the automotive podcast that’s got us a convoy! https://traffic.libsyn.com/thebeerreport/TW_60_final.mp3 On this episode of Throwin’ Wrenches… How will the way we buy cars change the coming years? Formula One racing comes to Sin City! We pay tribute to...

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Welcome to the automotive podcast that finally got some reviews this week. Most of them were positive, so we’ve got that going for us… which is nice. On this episode of Throwin’ Wrenches: We explain what the R E V...

The post Episode 58 – Tracking Elon, Roadway EV Charging & Cheese Freeze 2022 appeared first on Throwin' Wrenches Automotive Podcast.

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Welcome to the automotive podcast that was full of holiday treats… and bellies that shake like jelly. We hope you enjoyed our last episode during the holiday break. We truly enjoy your company and we’d like to offer a special...

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Welcome to the automotive podcast that knows how to spread some holiday cheer. In this self-indulgent episode, our wish came true and we’re joined by none other than Mike Fort, namesake of Fort’s Toyota of Pekin. https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/thebeerreport/TW-Xmas-2021.mp3 About our Guest...

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https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/thebeerreport/TW_55_Final.mp3 Welcome to the automotive podcast that crosses boundaries. Some of those boundaries are subjective, others happen to be international. Also, welcome all the SEMA 2022 travelers looking for an automotive podcast that’s worth a damn! Did you know that...

The post Episode 55 – Trillionaire Elon, A Giant SEMA Chevy Crate Motor and Ali MacGraw’s Eyebrows appeared first on Throwin' Wrenches Automotive Podcast.

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https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/thebeerreport/TW53_FINAL.mp3 The automotive podcast that’s going to spend way too much time talking EV’s and autonomous vehicles on this episode. Thanks Joe Biden! Not really, it’s a well-known fact that all politicians suck and EVs will likely become a legislative...

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Whether you’re new to the program, or you stumbled into this place for the first time, we’d like to welcome you to the automotive podcast that never forgets a great guest. Our good friend Regan is back for another episode...

The post Episode 52 – Summer RV, Camper and Boat fun along with Elon’s Tesla Robot appeared first on Throwin' Wrenches Automotive Podcast.

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Welcome back to the auto podcast that takes care of its Patreon subscribers! (and even the non-paying ones! Check out the freebies on the Patreon site!) If you’ve been following along, Eric and the family survived their Mexican road trip,...

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Welcome to the auto podcast that is not afraid to play some games! Speaking of games, this week we’re basking in the glow of LED computer fans at Arena Esports in beautiful downtown Morton, Illinois. This is a premier gaming...

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Welcome to the auto podcast that can’t have Steve Brown on two shows in a row… but we probably should because he’s a great interview and a cool dude overall. If you haven’t listened to the last episode, you’ll certainly...

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Welcome to the auto podcast that can appreciate a well-run amateur sporting organization. That’s some love aimed directly at the Champaign County Sports Car Club. We had hopes of getting with Dean Plumadore for Episode 40, but it didn’t work...

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Thanks for tuning in to the Automotive Podcast that CAN actually sell a car! Eric unloaded Red Mist last week, and now can boast that he has one less car than Daryl. Baby steps, people! We’ve got a lot of...

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Welcome back to the auto podcast that can’t seem to find a good reason for you all to re-share! Guilt-trips aside, we love the fact that you’re here with us, week after week. We also love bringing you automotive news,...

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Throwin’ Wrenches – 31 http://throwinwrenches.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/tw31.mp3 Welcome back! It’s official, we are “The Auto podcast that will not phone-in another show!”… Well, that’s what we swore on this episode anyway. (We are still working on the catchphrase.) Episode 30 was our...

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If you’re chomping at the bit to get something done during this COVID-19 pandemic, you’re not alone. Following the social distancing advice on the order of America’s top public health officials, governors, and the President is the best way to...

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The cure to self quarantine: Well produced Auto Racing (kinda) on Youtube! Hours of it! While Daryl is cruising the tourist attractions of Orlando… I’m stuck home “cyber-cruising” YouTube. When I am not watching Donut Media or Expedition Overland, I...

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With a spirit of competition and gritty determination to win, we at Throwin’ Wrenches like to envision ourselves as the Cole Trickle and Rowdy Burns of the automotive podcast game. That’s our take. In reality, we’re more like J.J. McClure...

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OK… I know we are all feeling the same way about this new Tesla “Cybertruck”. Is it scary? Does it lack design? Is it a practical joke? Is it a poor man’s Batmobile? Perhaps Elon is secretly prepping us for...

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Greetings, speed demons. Welcome back to another episode of Throwin’ Wrenches, where “That’s the way this podcast heard it.” Eric has decided to channel a little bit of the Mike Rowe with this week’s catchphrase. We’ll see if that...

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We have talked about Rich Benoit and his YouTube channel, Rich Rebuilds. It was a compelling and nicely produced video on the Motherboard YouTube network that first caught our eye… Rich finds two halves of salvageable Tesla sedans and tries...

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Commentary Archives - Throwin' Wrenches Automotive Podcast: Recent Episodes

Daryl Scott & Eric Stahl