In Wheel Time - Cartalk Radio

Looking for straight talk about electric vehicles? Our review of the 2025 Volvo EX40 Twin Motor Ultra pulls no punches, exposing both impressive features and frustrating flaws in this Belgian-built EV. With 402 horsepower and advanced pixel headlight technology, the vehicle offers plenty of power and premium features—but requires navigating through four separate touchscreen interactions just to turn it off.The real-world economics of EV ownership take center stage as we reveal how driving 270 miles required two charging sessions costing $33.59, while the same money would fuel a conventional truck for 232 miles without the charging delays. At an MSRP of $62,045 for our test model, the EX40 faces stiff competition from Mercedes, Audi, and Genesis alternatives.Auto appraiser Michael Wooding joins us to discuss the current state of the classic car market, revealing how economic uncertainty has created a buyer's paradise where normally $25,000 vehicles are selling for just $8,000. Wooding shares valuable insi

Automotive passion knows no borders in this fascinating exploration of European racing heritage and the world's most extraordinary car collections. We're joined by Lincoln Small, author of "Abarth Radborn Racing and Me," who transports us to the vibrant racing scene of 1960s Britain and Italy. Lincoln shares how he discovered Abarth's modified Fiats "like an epidemic" across Italy before bringing the underdog brand to compete against Britain's beloved Mini Coopers. His firsthand account reveals how these tiny, lightweight Italian machines with minimal horsepower managed to "humiliate lots of very large engine cars" through exceptional handling and engineering.The conversation shifts to the business side of racing as Lincoln explains how he established Radborn Racing and created a network of dealerships offering Abarth parts and conversion services throughout the UK. Though our international connection was unfortunately cut short, the interview provides a rare

The ripple effects of Trump's tariffs are sending shockwaves through luxury car dealerships across America, upending a market that remained resilient even during the pandemic and chip shortages. When customers start canceling orders for $750,000 Lamborghinis rather than pay an additional $75,000 in tariffs, something significant is happening.What makes this story particularly compelling is the human element behind the headline numbers. While wealthy buyers can simply walk away from these purchases, dealership employees - from mechanics to salespeople - face the real consequences. One luxury dealer reports earnings down 70-90% compared to previous years, forcing painful business decisions that affect ordinary working people.The tariff situation has evolved rapidly. European vehicle duties jumped from 2.5% to 25% in April, with British automakers receiving some relief at 10% starting June 30th. The European Union now faces a potential 30% tariff beginning August 1st if new trade agreements aren't reac

Buckle up for a journey into the heart of authentic car culture with our exploration of Rats on the Platte, a rebellious celebration of automotive passion that thrives far from the polished showcases of mainstream car events. Speaking with organizers Jake Donahoe and Paula Sanada, we discover what makes this annual gathering in Mitchell, Nebraska a must-visit for true gearheads and automotive misfits.This isn't your typical car show – it's a raw, community-driven event where creativity and character trump cleanliness and conformity. As Paula colorfully explains, "This isn't some shiny Corvette lawn chair circle where judged means who brought the cleanest wax rag." Instead, Rats on the Platte celebrates builders, dreamers, wrenchers, and fabricators who create machines worth noticing without seeking validation.The two-day event features dirt track racing in a rodeo arena, a concrete burnout pad with bleachers, swap meets, and the intriguing "Mistresses of Mayhem" – pinup mode

Rudy Samsel has created something special with Guys with Rides - a dealer-free marketplace where classic car enthusiasts can connect without the high fees and uneven playing field that plague traditional auction sites. As he explains to the In Wheel Time crew, his platform was born from frustration with how private sellers are treated at established auctions.What makes this concept compelling is its focus on creating meaningful connections between sellers who often have emotional attachments to their vehicles and buyers who will truly appreciate them. Samsel shares touching stories about helping families find proper homes for inherited classics, including daughters selling their late father's cherished '62 Thunderbird and a rare 1976 Cadillac pickup that found its way to Switzerland through his site.The pricing structure is revolutionary compared to industry standards - just $1 to list and $49 more if sold, with buyer fees capped at 1% of purchase price (maximum $500). This approach particularly ben

Step inside the fascinating world of automotive history as we explore the impressive Savoy Automobile Museum in Cartersville, Georgia. Our guide Mary Agruza takes us on a captivating journey through time, revealing surprising connections between America's pioneering past and its automotive future.The museum houses a remarkable Studebaker collection that tells an unexpected story – before becoming car manufacturers, Studebaker built the Conestoga wagons that carried settlers westward during America's expansion. Even Abraham Lincoln likely knew about Studebakers! We witness the brand's evolution from wagon maker to innovative automaker, featuring everything from the curved-glass 1927 President Lincoln to the distinctive "coming and going" 1948 Starliner Coupe.Particularly fascinating is how Studebaker navigated financial challenges while competing with larger manufacturers. When automotive fins became popular in the 1950s, they cleverly bolted fiberglass fins onto existing models rather

Car buying should be exciting, not a minefield of potential fraud and deception. Yet two alarming lawsuits from Florida reveal the dark side of automotive retail, where unsuspecting customers discovered their "new" vehicles had hidden histories. One buyer found his pristine Land Cruiser had nearly 5,000 miles on the odometer despite being sold as factory-fresh, while another learned her Jeep had previously been titled to a leasing company—information deliberately concealed during the sale.These cautionary tales highlight why thoroughly examining documentation before signing is crucial. As one host suggests, having an attorney review purchase papers might seem excessive, but could save thousands in the long run. While the vast majority of dealerships operate honestly, these instances remind us to verify everything independently, especially when significant investments are involved.Meanwhile, Ford Motor Company has established an unfortunate industry record with 89 recalls issued so far this year—more

Step into the fascinating world of automotive treasures as we journey through the Savoy Automobile Museum in Cartersville, Georgia. Museum representative Mary Agrusa takes us on a captivating tour through their remarkable barn finds collection, where each vehicle tells an extraordinary story of discovery and preservation. From a GT350 Mustang with deliberately preserved deteriorating paint to the one-of-a-kind 1949 Packard Monte Carlo convertible built by Henney, these automotive time capsules reveal the passionate dedication of collectors and restorers.The museum's fiberglass car collection offers another dimension of automotive history, showcasing rare and one-off vehicles that represent the DIY spirit of enthusiasts who once ordered kit cars from the back pages of automotive magazines. The Novetta stands as a testament to dedication, taking its owner 20 years to complete by piecing together parts from various sources, including Mini Cooper hinges and other creative solutions.We dive into automotive st

Special In Wheel Time Replay - What happens when childhood dreams of muscle cars finally come true? Danon Hollinger joins us at the Lone Star Street Rod Association's 50th anniversary celebration to share her journey from Hot Rod magazine fan to proud owner of a gleaming white 1978 Pontiac Trans Am.Unlike most girls growing up, Danon decorated her headboard with car magazine centerfolds instead of pop stars. Her fascinating story takes us from her early fascination with a high school crush's '69 Camaro to discovering something unexpected—a Trans Am with a poignant backstory. The previous owner had lovingly restored it for his son who, after a tragic accident, could never drive it. Now this beautiful machine has found new life with an owner who truly appreciates its power and presence.The conversation takes a few detours through Danon's unique name (from an old Western film), her career as a teacher now enjoying retirement, and the modifications they've made to transform their Trans Am

Special In Wheel Time Replay - Courtney Enders brings her infectious energy and deep motorsports knowledge to this episode as she discusses her groundbreaking new role with NHRA TV. Far from leaving her position at Flow Racing, she explains how she'll balance multiple responsibilities while bringing fresh perspectives to drag racing broadcasting after years of "knocking on their door."The conversation takes listeners behind the scenes of Elite Motorsports' challenging 2023 season, where crew chief Mark Ingersoll's double lung transplant significantly impacted the team's performance. Despite this setback, Erica Enders still finished fourth in the championship standings—an achievement most racers would celebrate, but one that left the six-time champion "wildly disappointed" and hungrier than ever for 2024.Courtney provides clarity on swirling rumors about Elite Motorsports entering Top Fuel, describing how Richard Freeman's premature announcement created "a stor

Special In Wheel Time Replay - Scott Ingram slides into the passenger seat with us, bringing along his showstopping orange 1932 Ford coupe and a treasure trove of hot rodding stories spanning nearly six decades. As one of the seven original founders of the Lone Star Street Rod Association, Scott represents the authentic spirit of hot rod culture—someone who believes these machines are meant to be driven hard and enjoyed thoroughly.The striking orange '32 Ford sitting beside us isn't just for show. Scott has racked up an astonishing 350,000 miles on this beauty over 57 years of ownership, taking it deer hunting, towing other vehicles, and embarking on cross-country adventures that have touched both American borders and ventured into Canada. This isn't a garage queen; it's a living piece of automotive history that's been loved through use rather than preservation.What truly sets Scott apart is his hands-on approach to hot rodding. From hand-louvering the hood to applying the paint job t

A special In Wheel Time replay - Ever wandered through a museum where cars aren't just machines, but masterpieces? Mary Agrusa takes us inside the Savoy Auto Museum in Cartersville, Georgia, where vehicles are displayed with the reverence typically reserved for fine art. "We consider this really more an art museum dedicated to the automobile," Mary explains, and her passion for automotive history shines through as she guides us through exhibits that tell stories beyond horsepower and torque figures. Each vehicle comes with a reader board that doesn't just list specifications but delves into fascinating backstories—why a particular model succeeded or failed, its historical significance, or quirky facts about its design. Visitors can walk 360 degrees around most cars, appreciating them from every angle under specially designed lighting that showcases their sculptural qualities. From an untouched 1925 Model T about to celebrate its 100th birthday to the elegant lineup of Studebakers charting

Special In Wheel Time replay-  Buckle up for a high-octane journey through Texas' most thrilling road race and cutting-edge automotive innovations. We're kicking things into high gear with Rhonda Palmer from the Big Bend Open Road Race, giving us an insider's look at what makes this 59-mile stretch between Fort Stockton and Sanderson the ultimate driving challenge. With 59 curves and 59 elevation changes, participants push their cars to technical speeds of 160+ mph while racing against the clock rather than each other.Rhonda shares personal racing stories that capture the essence of the event - from strategic passing maneuvers to the friendly smack talk between drivers. What makes this conversation particularly refreshing is Rhonda's perspective as one of the few female drivers participating, and her passionate encouragement for more women to experience the thrill of high-performance driving. The detailed breakdown of safety protocols, class structures, and community impact reveals why thi

Drag racing fans rejoice! The International Hot Rod Association is roaring back to life with a racer-friendly approach that challenges the status quo of professional drag racing. Division Director Doug Foley joins the In Wheel Time podcast to share how IHRA is reinventing itself after years in the shadows of larger sanctioning bodies.The biggest news? Top Fuel dragsters and Funny Cars are returning to IHRA competition after a 15-year absence, with full eight-car fields already committed to the upcoming season opener at National Trail Raceway in Ohio this July. Racing legends like Scott Palmer, Dale Creasy Jr., and Terry Haddock have signed on, drawn by IHRA's compelling format: $50,000 winner purses requiring just five runs to claim victory, compared to eight runs in other series."We're not trying to copy anybody else," Foley explains, detailing how IHRA has crafted its program specifically for racers who want competitive action without breaking the bank. While top teams in other series mi

Are electric vehicles at a crossroads? This question drives our enlightening conversation with renowned automotive expert Jack Nerad, who joins us from California to share his perspectives on the current state of EVs and the automotive industry at large.Range anxiety emerges as a genuine dealbreaker rather than a minor inconvenience. When Mike shares his frustrating experience with a Volvo EV that can't complete his 112-mile commute without an hour-long charging stop, the practical limitations of current electric technology become painfully clear. Jack points out that without tax incentives on the horizon, manufacturers face an uphill battle convincing mainstream consumers to embrace fully electric vehicles. The consensus? Plug-in hybrids might offer the most practical solution for today's drivers who want efficiency without sacrificing convenience.The conversation shifts to the endangered species that auto shows have become. Despite evidence that these exhibitions connect with enthusiastic consumer

Ready for an explosive Fourth of July? Our latest episode delivers your ultimate guide to celebrating Independence Day across Texas, highlighting spectacular destinations that cater to every preference. Discover why Addison's Kaboom Town ranks as the nation's third-best fireworks display, drawing 400,000 visitors with its impressive aerial shows and vintage warplane exhibitions. We explore everything from Fair Park's family-friendly atmosphere with Army Reserve Band performances to Frisco's two-day Freedom Fest honoring our veterans.For those seeking alternatives to traditional celebrations, we spotlight innovative options like the sensory-friendly LED light show in Cypress Waters, perfect for those sensitive to loud noises, and Stanford's Cowboy Reunion with its authentic western flair featuring chuckwagon cook-offs and rodeo events. Whether you're heading to Austin for the symphony-synchronized fireworks or planning to stroll Irving's illuminated Canal Walk, we've got

Buckle up for a high-octane conversation as we welcome Owen Pittman, the dynamic promoter behind Houston Motorsports Park and its sister track in Corpus Christi. With the adrenaline-pumping Elite 410 Wingless Sprint Car event just days away, Pittman gives us an exclusive preview of what promises to be one of the most electrifying races of the season.These aren't your ordinary sprint cars. Primarily dirt track racers, these teams are converting their machines for a rare asphalt appearance, creating a unique challenge that will showcase pure racing talent. As Pittman reveals, "They're going to be by far the fastest things gone around that oval in a long time, if not ever." With 16-18 cars expected, including top points leaders and championship winners, this July 5th event is shaping up to be unmissable.Perhaps the most surprising revelation comes when Pittman shares his Crown Victoria racing program. For just $200 plus a crash clause fee, anyone can suit up in professional gear and race a fo

Driver assistance technologies are facing a major identity crisis according to a revealing new JD Power white paper. While automakers invest billions into developing these systems, consumers remain largely unimpressed and unwilling to pay premium prices for features they don't trust. This fascinating disconnect forms the centerpiece of our discussion, where we explore why only 24% of drivers feel these technologies make them better drivers.The conversation takes a practical turn as our hosts share their firsthand experiences with these systems. From automatic emergency braking that unexpectedly activates while backing out of driveways to start-stop technology that most immediately disable, we dive into the frustrations of modern automotive tech. There's a clear theme throughout: drivers still want to drive, not be driven.What makes this technological debate particularly significant is the massive financial stakes involved. Tesla charges $8,000 upfront for its "Full Self-Driving" package, M

Racing up Pikes Peak might seem like a death wish to outsiders, but for automotive daredevils, it represents the ultimate adrenaline rush. This episode takes you inside the 103-year-old Pikes Peak International Hill Climb through the eyes of Richard Tomlin from Apex Auto Works, whose passion for this legendary race is as steep as the mountain itself.The conversation reveals surprising statistics about Texas representation at this iconic Colorado event, where six cars from the Lone Star State make up nearly 10% of the 74-car field. Richard shares fascinating insights into the engineering behind modern roll cages—technology literally tested by drivers who've hit mountain rocks at 95 miles per hour and walked away unscathed.What does it take to race up a mountain with 156 turns and 12 hairpin bends, where one wrong move means a deadly plunge? We explore the detailed credentials required, the early-morning race schedules that begin before dawn, and the unpredictable weather conditions that had crews plowing

The future of transportation isn't what you think. While autonomous vehicles grab headlines, a different revolution is already happening – remote driving technology that puts humans behind virtual wheels, controlling vehicles from anywhere on earth.Speaking with Enn Lanoo, CEO of Estonia-based Elmo Remote Driving, we discovered a technology that's not just theoretical but actively deployed and road-legal since 2022. Unlike the still-developing autonomous systems, Elmo's technology creates a seamless connection between remote drivers and vehicles, with applications spanning car rentals, taxis, mining operations, and even defense sectors in conflict zones.What makes this technology particularly fascinating is its practical approach to solving real transportation problems. Imagine renting a car that arrives at your doorstep, driven remotely by an operator who then relinquishes control to you. When you're finished, you simply end your session, and a teledriver takes over again. For taxi servic