In Wheel Time - Cartalk Radio

Pull up a seat and buckle in, we've got a thrilling ride ahead! This Halloween Edition, we bring you an exclusive chat with Julian Mendoza from the Marshall Center for Advanced Careers and three talented students from Alief and Hastings High Schools. Julian, a former Mossy Nissan and Sewell Cadillac employee, spills the beans on the state-of-the-art facility that offers courses ranging from culinary to robotics. Hear from the students about their fascinating experience in the automotive program and the recent competition they participated in with outstanding results.  What does the future hold?  A lot for these young men who share some of their thoughts on the future.As we steer the conversation, we dive into the results of a recent car auction. Marrs landed six coveted vehicles and Jeff snatched one. We'll talk about the vehicles we bagged, from a 1972 Chevy Chevelle to a 1968 Chevy El Camino, and the new tagline from Chevy, 'Together Let's Drive'. We also shed light on the $1.1 mill

The drama of a strike can echo far beyond the picket lines, especially when it grips the auto industry. This week, we're joined by Shay Manawar from Anderson Economic Group, who guides us through the labyrinth of the ongoing UAW strike's impacts. The ripple effects are far-reaching, from a staggering $9.3 billion economic loss to wage loss and suppliers' loss. But what does this mean for the everyday Joe? We dissect how this turmoil is creating waves for dealerships and consumers alike, and the potential impact on the festive season.Every crisis brings change - and the current UAW strike is no different. As we enter the second segment of our show, we ponder over a fascinating question - could this strike alter brand loyalty among consumers? Will they start steering clear of their favorite automakers, driven by public opinion and strike fatigue? We take a deep look at the data of the top five automakers, the potential cost shifts that could result from the proposed UAW contract, and the possible

What does a proposed wage increase for UAW members mean for the automotive industry, and will it change how you buy cars? We delve into the thick of auto industry politics, discussing potential negotiations between General Motors and Stalantis and the ripple effects on car prices. From the bean counters' strategies to a surprisingly affordable Mercedes Benz SUV, the economic landscape of the car world might be shifting gears.But that's not all, gearheads! We also take you on a ride with the 2024 Kia Telluride, dissecting its trim levels, features, and engines. And if you've got a need for speed, you're in luck - we're inviting you to the Gulf Coast Auto Shield Car Social. It's a chance to mingle with other car enthusiasts, gawp at the Lamborghinis, Porsches, Ferraris, and participate in some thrilling car events. From the Tailpipes and Tacos cruise to the Nifty 50's cruise, we've got your wheel-adventures covered. So buckle up, and let's hit the road together on th

Ever wondered how classic car enthusiasts are inspiring the next generation of technicians? You're in for a treat. Our lively conversation with the Vintage Thunderbirds of Houston puts you in the passenger seat of their annual cruise-in at the Hemi Hideout. We delve into their philanthropic program, discuss their scholarship schemes aimed at fostering fresh talent, and explore the pressing issue of technician shortage in the classic car business. Plus, we touch on the Houston Mecum auction, an innovative venture where the club works at the auction and the proceeds support students' journey to trade colleges via scholorships.Buckle up as we switch gears and journey to the heart of Texas with Josh Kennedy, the first recruit of the new owners of Texas Timber Frames. He spills the beans on how he turned a 147,000 board feet of Douglas fir and 13 miles of Cyprus tongue and groove into the awe-inspiring Hemi Hideout. We also touch on the hot-button issues of layoffs and strikes in the auto industry, and h

Prepare to venture behind the scenes of the Hemi Hideout as we chat with Shelley Gates, the woman at the helm of this automotive sanctuary in Brookshire, Texas. You'll be privy to the meticulous planning and organization required to orchestrate major car events, and gain a new appreciation for the vintage aesthetic that the Hideout is famed for.Then, we'll shift gears and chat with Jeff Dziekan about the exhilarating world of kit cars. He'll be sharing his top picks under $26k, and you'll hear all about the Factory Five Daytona Coupe, the Pilgrim 356 Speedster, the DAX Coupe, the Provo Design Quntas, and the DF Goblin. You'll learn about the various components that come with each kit and how you can turbocharge your engine for an adrenaline-pumping ride. Finally, we've got the Gulf Coast Auto Shield Car Social on the horizon, taking place on December 2nd. You'll witness the finest autos Houston has to offer, from sleek Ferraris to luxurious Bentleys, and you'll have the

Get ready to rev those engines as we take you on a fast-paced ride through the world of cars. Our special guest for this episode is none other than Jerry Guthrie, a key member of the Hemi Hideout family. Jerry spins tales of his adventures with cars, the dynamics of the Hideout, and his indispensable tips on how to combat the infamous Houston humidity. We'll also get a peek into what a Road Trip looks like through Jerry's eyes. Auto enthusiasts, you wouldn't want to miss this one!Switching gears, we journey back in time to the milestones that have shaped the auto industry. Ever wondered how the automatic transmission came about? Or why the Plymouth Superbird sports a vinyl top? We unveil these captivating stories and more, including a riveting discussion on the iconic car chase scene from the 1968 movie "Bullitt". Get ready to geek out on automotive trivia in our feature - This Week In Automotive History!But we're not just about the past. We also face forward, keeping our fingers

Venture with us into the world of memorabilia at the Hemi Hideout where we unearth a treasure trove of unique cars and relics. The owner, John Hovas takes us on a walk where we find a vintage 1970 Roadrunner convertible, a couple of 'Cudas, a 1937 Plymouth pickup truck to a historical Chuck Wagon from 1860, we've explored it all! And yes, we also spotted a 1947 Dodge Power Wagon! So, if you're a fan of rare finds, join us as we journey through this impressive collection. Get ready to fuel your passion for cars as we rev things up with an exhilarating discussion about the 2023 GMC Canyon pickup. We uncover the intricacies of its engine, take a close look at its four trim levels, and highlight the captivating changes to its exterior and interior. So, buckle up and ride with us as we lay out everything automobile enthusiasts need to know about this impressive small pickup truck.Mark your calendars for the Gulf Coast Auto Shield Car Social! This isn't your ordinary car show. We're talking

Hop in for a wild ride as we set up camp at the HEMI Hideout in Brookshire, Texas, and explore the fascinating world of cars, antique restoration, and even a bit of highway construction drama. With a possible permanent In-Wheel Time studio on the horizon, complete with a makeup room, kitchen, and jacuzzi, we share some laughs about our journey here - the inevitable highway construction delays and rare wildlife encounters that made the road a little more interesting.In this laugh-out-loud episode, we are joined by our host, John Hovas, who unveils his exceptional car collection and reveals the intriguing process of rotating his classic vehicles in and out of the Hideout. John also uncovers a unique 1930 Maine-made freight canoe and a 1916 Harley Davidson dealership sign hiding in his collection. And we couldn't miss the chance to chat with the restoration genius behind these antique pieces, whose unconventional restoration approach has us hooked. So fasten your seatbelts and tune in for an episode packed

Join us on a captivating journey as we reconnect with our dear friend, Bill Sietz, the artistic genius behind the HEMI Hideout building—a place that carries its own sense of history and charm. We delve beyond the surface to unearth the story of Bill and his lifelong friendship with John Hovis, their shared passion for automobile collectibles, the intriguing story behind the Corvette Expo, and the delightful evolution of the HEMI Hideout building. Get ready to behold the awe-inspiring pieces of artwork adorning the walls of the Hideout and listen in as we discuss the magic that makes this place a living testament to a community of car enthusiasts.We switch the lanes to the world of auto shows and events, with a spotlight on the recent UAW Strike in Detroit and its rippling effects across the industry. Listen in as we explore how cost-cutting measures have led to Stellantis cancelling their display at the Specialty Equipment Market Association show in Las Vegas and the Los Angeles Auto Show. How this might affe

Get ready for a joyride back in time! We're joined by Vicki Zeiger, President of the Classic Car Club of America. She takes us on a tour of the club's mission and shares their love for cars built between 1915 and 1948. Believe it or not, popular favorites like the Chevrolet don't qualify as "full classics" by club standards. Vicki also gives us a sneak peek into the perks of being a club member, including their glossy magazines and exciting nationwide tours.That's not all; we've got some auto history trivia lined up for you featuring the majestic Cadillac and the rugged Jeep - This Week In Auto History. We'll rev up some fascinating stories – from the mullet-era Camaros to the time a meteorite had a face-off with a Chevrolet Malibu. We'll also crunch some numbers discussing the current inventory of new vehicles in the US and Tesla's intriguing price reductions. To top it all off, we unveil the upcoming live streaming show on multiple platforms. Every Saturday

Gear up for an action-packed conversation with Richard Tomlin, the seasoned owner/mechanic from Apex Auto Works with tales of road racing in Mexico and a fascinating journey to San Pedro Matier, a Yellowstone-like national park.  Join us as we pull back the veil on this exhilarating narrative, alongside a deep discussion about the enigmatic 2023 Dodge Hornet and a nostalgic trip through this week in auto history. Fasten your seatbelts as we shift gears to Richard's ambitious Fiero project destined for Pikes Peak, and the complexities of the recently built for SEMA Grand Wagoneer transmission issue. We'll navigate these captivating stories, throwing spotlight on the designer Jeep, and shedding light on the intriguing world of B bodies. Finally, we swing the spotlight to the much-anticipated DodgeHornet crossover vehicle. We dissect its exterior design and interior aesthetics, evaluate the engine and transmission, and scrutinize the all-important fuel economy. Are you ready to compare it against fierc

Join us as we journey into the world of autonomous driving with our guest, Chris Piche, founder of Smarter AI, who's all set to enlighten us with his knowledge in autonomous vehicle advances. Chris sheds light on how their AI camera software platform functions, providing the capability to download various AI models for distinct purposes - be it alerting risks of close proximity with other vehicles or identifying driver distractions. A promising cornerstone for autonomous driving and road safety, this innovative technology brings a whole new perspective to our views on vehicular security.That's not all - Chris also shares insights on aftermarket cameras and how their software can adapt to a variety of vehicles, detecting the presence of other vehicles, pedestrians, and traffic infrastructure. With the ability to manage cameras over-the-air in real-time and utilize predictive analytics to monitor driver activities, this platform presents an array of benefits not just for individual consumers but also

Get ready to unravel some of the chaos surrounding the UAW strike and its impact on major automobile giants like Ford, General Motors, and Stallantis in our latest installment. We try to understand the massive financial implications linked with stopping production at Ford's Kentucky plant, generating a whopping $25 billion annually. We’ll also shed light on the precarious situation of smaller suppliers grappling with the sudden pause on 'just in time inventory', and the looming threat of layoffs. And, if that's not enough, could Ford could shift all its manufacturing to Mexico as a potential countermeasure to the strike?In the latter half of the show, we have the pleasure of hosting Randy Borcharding, the mastermind behind Painthouse, a custom car building enterprise. Randy will share his insights on the finesse required in painting cars, along with the necessity of safeguarding metal from rust before painting. We'll also unpack the distinct nuances of vehicles like the 65 El Camino a

Buckle up as we go on a thrilling joyride through the world of vintage automobiles sold on Hemmings Marketplace, from the crimson allure of a 1973 Cadillac El Dorado convertible to the timeless elegance of a 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air. Join in the fun as Konrad, Mike and Jeff, place our bets on these vehicular beauties' selling prices, with Jeff taking the trophy for precise guesswork. But that's not all - we also spotlight our skilled friends at NHRA who might just bring home the coveted Wally!Under the hood of every modern car lies a labyrinth of wiring systems. We jumpstart a rather electrifying conversation about the intricacies of these modern marvels and contemplate Bentley's avant-garde 48-volt electrical system. On a similar note, we shine a light on Gina's latest venture with Rogers Dabbs Chevrolet, a Chevrolet dealership doing wonders in the world of factory automobile performance parts. Not forgetting our friends at NHRA, their triumphs, and the ever-present possibility of bagging a

Get ready to immerse yourself in the riveting world of auto industry strikes, the ongoing negotiations, and concessions as we engage in a stimulating conversation with the insightful John Vincent from US News and World Report. We tackle a range of topics including the UAW strike, GM's pivotal concession that could shift the dynamics for the Big 3 car makers, and the astonishing fact that UAW workers in battery factories are set to earn twice as much as their non-union peers. Curious about the potential ripple effects on vehicle prices and CEO rewards? We've got you covered.As we continue our intriguing dialogue with John Vincent, we try to forecast the likely resolution of the UAW strike, the specifics of the agreement, and the potential impact on your wallet when you next visit a car dealership. Furthermore, we explore the intriguing subject of contract lengths and regional variations between plants. But that's not all. We also analyze the broader influence of the strike on auto industry suppl

Gear up, auto enthusiasts! We've got an electrifying episode lined up, spotlighting the latest buzz from the automotive world and the hurdles in the race towards electric vehicles. We kick things off with an inside scoop on the new Kia NIRO and touch base on the UAW strike. Buckle up as we share the thrill of a candid chat with the game-changing Bill Klehm, CEO of eBliss. With his mission to revolutionize America's truck stops and introduce viable alternatives to vehicles, Bill offers us a glimpse into the future of transportation.Charging ahead, we dig into the challenges crippling electric vehicle development, where government regulations often clash with industry progress. We also throw light on the forthcoming fleet of 50 electric vehicles about to hit the market and why federal backing might just be the secret ingredient to drive the EV dream into reality. Fancy a field trip? Hop in as we take the 2023 Kia NIRO PHEV SX Touring for a spin, dissecting its style, features, tech, performance, and h

Are you ready to get the inside scoop on auto insurance and road safety, along with some hard-hitting facts about synthetic oil? We sit down with Richard Johnson from the Insurance Council of Texas and Daniel Ambruster from AAA of Texas to unravel crucial insights about their new campaign, Arrive Alive, and the important role of the Insurance Council of Texas. Get set to be enlightened about the alarming rise in auto insurance rates linked to an increase in accidents due to risky driving behaviors. Richard and Daniel spill the beans on research data from Arrive Alive that exposes the demographic most guilty of these dangerous behaviors. But it's not all doom and gloom! We also touch on useful tips about maintaining a great relationship with your insurance agent and switching agents when you need to. Plus, we highlight the significance of regular oil changes, the advantages of synthetic oil over conventional oil, and the most eco-friendly methods to discard old oil in this weeks's Car Clinic.Stay tun

Get ready to rev your engines as we dive deep into the exciting world of car shows and automotive news in this enthralling episode. What does it really take to win at a car show? How are cars judged and what are the nitty-gritties that could give a car the winning edge? With our guest, Vernon Wilhelm from Northside Mustang, we unpack these questions and more, ensuring you leave with a greater understanding of the behind-the-scenes action at car shows.   We explore the rigorous judging process, stressing on the significance of acknowledging the hard work put in by car owners. The next Northside Mustang November event boasts 45 classes, 80 registered vehicles and a fair judging process involving 10-12 judges, promising a diverse array of spectacular vehicles. We also reveal insider tips like leaving your car hood open and ensuring your engine is squeaky clean to stand out in the crowd.   Lean more about an upcoming judging clinic that the club will be holding.But that's not all, gearheads! We also take a d

Fasten your seatbelts, car enthusiasts! The upcoming Space City Corvette Club's car show and fall festival are set to be an automotive feast for the senses, with a cornucopia of classic cars, including a 1953 Corvette and a 2023 C8 Corvette.Our guest today, AJ Loupe from the Space City Corvette Club, is here to navigate us through the festival's details, from pre-registration to the fantastic sponsors, including Bayway Chevrolet. Get the inside track on Space City Corvette Club's regular gatherings, and hear a little about the Bayway Chevrolet's classic car collection. Get ready to rev your engines as we shift from Corvettes to charity with the admirable work of Purple Patriots, a charity organization based in Friendswood, Texas. Hear about their Good Grub and Gears car show, which last year raised a remarkable $18,000 for a research hospital. Then, we're hitting the open road, exploring the most thrilling racing events across Texas and beyond - from NRHA in Innis to NASCAR in Charlot

Ever wonder why Electric Vehicles (EVs) are being touted as the future of automotive industry? Is this really the end of internal combustion engines? Join us on this electrifying journey as we navigate the complex and often polarizing world of EVs. We delve into the federal funding being funneled into the EV industry, the political divisions it is causing, and why we firmly believe that EVs are just one piece of the future automotive puzzle. Plus, we’ve got an in-depth look at President's stance on EVs and why consumer choice in vehicle selection should not be compromised.But that's not all. We've got the inside scoop on some of the most anticipated EV models hitting the market soon. From the Chevrolet Blazer EV to the Mini Cooper EV, we've got you covered. However, as with any industry shift, there are hurdles to overcome. We tackle the tough issues of battery fires, charging woes, and the environmental cost of disposing these vehicles. If you've ever wondered about the fees and regu