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In this episode of the TechMobility Podcast, Ken Chester connects the dots between design, powertrains, and autonomy across a rapidly shifting auto landscape.

He opens with a look at Volvo’s new ES-90, a sleek full-electric premium car aimed at drivers who are burned out on SUVs but still want space, comfort, and ground clearance. Blending sedan elegance, fastback flexibility, and SUV practicality, the ES-90 targets professionals who value understated, confident design over flashy excess. The catch? Because it’s built in China, current U.S. tariffs make it unprofitable to sell here—so American buyers may never see it, even as European customers start taking delivery.

From there, Ken dives into a detailed review of the 2026 Ram 1500 Bighorn pickup truck. After a quick history lesson on how the old Dodge D/W pickups evolved into today’s Ram brand, he breaks down engine options, towing and payload numbers, and real-world driving impressions. With its mild-hybrid V6 or Hemi V8, comfortable ride, big-brash styling, and genuinely usable cabin, the Ram 1500 delivers the capability and refinement buyers expect from a modern full-size truck. He does call out some gripes—like the exposed spare tire placement and the lack of standard running boards on 4x4 models—but still concludes that, for those willing to pay the price, the Ram 1500 remains a highly compelling choice.

Ken then shifts to the growing wave of canceled or reshuffled EV programs. As tax credits fade and buyers gravitate toward hybrids over pure EVs, automakers are quietly killing or reconfiguring some electric models. He highlights surprising moves like Acura canceling the ZDX after just one year and GM walking away from its BrightDrop electric vans, with big financial implications for suppliers and owners alike. At the same time, he notes what hasn’t been canceled: key EVs like the Mustang Mach-E, Cadillac’s electric lineup, and GM’s Silverado and Sierra EVs are still moving ahead. The real story, he says, is not that EVs are dying, but that automakers are pivoting to hybrids and recalibrating timing, not abandoning electrification altogether.

Finally, the episode closes with the emerging “Robotaxi Wars.” Waymo, long the U.S. gold standard in autonomous ride-hailing, now faces incoming competition from Amazon’s Zoox and a late-to-the-party Tesla. Ken explains how Waymo has spent years and billions building a multi-city fleet using modified vehicles from established automakers, while Zoox is betting on funky, fully symmetric, purpose-built pods with no steering wheel at all. Tesla, meanwhile, is testing supervised robotaxis in Austin but trails Waymo by roughly a decade. Ken questions who will ultimately crack all-weather, all-city autonomy—especially in dense, messy environments like Boston—and suggests that while the field is getting crowded, Waymo is still the one to beat.

If you enjoy sharp, data-literate takes on cars, EV strategy, and autonomous tech, follow along, share with a friend, and leave a review. Have a question or hot take we should cover next? Drop us a note at talk@techmobility.show and subscribe for more deep dives.

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This episode of the TechMobility Show travels across three big conversations shaping America’s future: rail, air, and agriculture—then lands on a stark warning about digital surveillance at home.

Ken opens with a deep dive into Amtrak’s resurgence, highlighting the railroad’s record-setting ridership, rising revenues, and long-overdue investments in equipment and facilities. After decades of neglect, Amtrak is finally seeing renewed public demand—driven by high airfares, highway congestion, and the appeal of rail as a calmer, more convenient alternative. Clean trains, upgraded routes, and on-time targets are helping Amtrak inch toward operational profitability by 2028, a milestone never before achieved.

From rails to the sky, Ken explores the emerging world of electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (eVTOLs)—and whether the long-imagined “flying car” is finally real. He breaks down the Pivotal BlackFly ultralight aircraft, its intuitive joystick controls, its safety-first automation, and why federal regulations—not technology—may be the biggest barrier to widespread adoption. With models like the new Pivotal Helix entering the market, Ken argues the conversation is no longer science fiction, but regulatory timing.

Back on the ground, the episode turns to the next evolution of precision agriculture: controlled drainage and subsurface irrigation. Using a high-value Indiana farm sale as a case study, Ken explains how farmers are using underground water-management systems to reduce runoff, preserve nutrients, recapture irrigation water, and boost crop yields by 10–20%. In a time of rising input costs and mounting water-quality concerns, the technology offers both environmental and financial benefits.

Finally, the tone sharpens with a critical look at a secretive U.S. Border Patrol surveillance program that tracks millions of American drivers far beyond traditional border zones. Ken unpacks how “suspicious” travel patterns—undefined and unregulated—are triggering detentions, “whisper stops,” and invasive questioning of law-abiding citizens. He raises urgent questions about civil liberties, Fourth Amendment protections, and the growing reach of domestic surveillance in everyday life.

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The Arctic isn’t just ice and maps—it’s a test of national power and supply chains. We start with a candid look at the global icebreaker gap: Russia’s eight nuclear heavy ships, China’s expanding fleet, and a U.S. plan focused on medium icebreakers that may struggle through four-foot ice. We examine what mediums can handle well, why heavy icebreakers still define access and deterrence, and how timing, cost, and reliability will shape leadership in the North.

Next, we get behind the wheel of the 2025 Audi A3. It’s more compact, smarter, and more digital, with a refined interior, standard quattro all-wheel drive, and a smooth, capable ride that feels more premium than its price. We highlight the wins—balanced handling, useful MMI upgrades, ambient lighting—and discuss the issues that matter: a dated cruise stalk, an awkward armrest for shorter drivers, and stock all-season tires that limit the car’s potential. The solution is simple and effective: install proper all-weather tires and let the chassis perform at its best.

Careers and code intersect as we explore AI in hiring. Recruiters rely on AI to sift through large volumes of resumes; job seekers use hidden prompts to influence the screeners. We explain how this works, why platforms are adapting, and the ethics of countering automation with automation. The main idea is straightforward: optimization outperforms manipulation because interviews still value clarity, evidence, and results.

Finally, we discuss the future of batteries that every EV enthusiast cares about. Solid-state batteries promise higher energy density, faster charging, and improved safety. Toyota aims for a 620-mile range and sub-10-minute charges; Stellantis is moving toward deployments with Factorial; GM decides its three chemistry strategy of LFP, lithium-enriched, and NMC chemistries to manage cost and scale makes sense now. Different timelines, different approaches —and a market that will favor those who connect technology readiness with real-world value.

If you enjoy in-depth analyses that link geopolitics, mobility technology, and everyday choices—subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review with your favorite moment. What are you betting on: heavy icebreakers, solid-state battery timelines, or smarter tire choices?

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Power bills, car payments, and grocery expenses don’t happen in isolation—they’re connected to choices about energy, vehicles, buildings, and the technology we use to operate them. We connect these threads to show how reliability, cost, and carbon influence everyday decisions, from the kilowatts that keep cities powered to the monthly payments parked in your driveway.

We start with the honest truth about the grid: reliable power remains crucial when demand rises and wind or sun are scarce. Recent federal funding decisions will support upgrades to aging coal plants for improved efficiency, water reuse, and, importantly, switching fuels to natural gas. It’s not a revival for coal but a transitional step as utilities work to add cleaner, more stable capacity. However, the financial challenges are significant. Plants designed to last 30–40 years are aging, and extending their lifespan by a few years can cost tens of millions—expenses regulators didn’t anticipate. Natural gas continues to be cheaper and cleaner than coal, while nuclear power leads in capacity factor, illustrating how hard it is to balance cost, reliability, and decarbonization.

Next, we look at the sticker shock of vehicle costs. With average new-car prices around $50,000, a higher percentage of buyers are exceeding the $1,000-per-month payment, often financing negative equity and extending loans to 70 months or more. Trucks and SUVs account for the bulk of these large payments, putting pressure on household budgets when insurance, fuel, or repairs rise. A practical alternative still exists: family sedans from Asian brands that continue to offer high quality at much lower prices, giving a sensible way to avoid payment fatigue if buyers value stability over other options.

Housing and climate intersect in an unexpected place: wood. Mass timber—such as cross-laminated and engineered wood—offers 12-story buildings that meet building codes, resist fire, and lower embodied carbon while cutting costs and speeding up construction. Lighter components mean smaller cranes, shorter schedules, and simpler logistics. Since buildings contribute to more than a third of global emissions, shifting from cement- and steel-heavy structures to wood where appropriate is a meaningful step without waiting for future technology.

Finally, we visit farms where technology is already solving real problems. AI-powered collars monitor cow health in real time, alerting farmers days before illness reduces milk production. Paired with precision agriculture—GPS mapping, auto-steer, drones, and sensors—these tools cut waste, labor demands, and input costs. When seventy percent of large farms use precision systems, it’s clear that data has become a vital part of modern farming.

If conversations like this help you understand the bigger picture behind the bills you pay, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review so more listeners can find us. Got a question or a take? Call or text 872-222-9793 or email talk@techmobility.show.

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What happens when EVs finally offer real range and value, nuclear power receives a major vote of confidence, and trucking prepares for its biggest shakeup in years? We connect the dots between cars, kilowatts, and cargo to show how these shifts collide at the checkout line and on your dashboard. From Chevy’s sub-$35K Equinox EV and a 493-mile Silverado EV to Toyota’s long-range battery plans, we explain why the old arguments about price and range no longer apply—and how software and battery chemistry keep pushing electric vehicles forward.

We then slide into the driver’s seat of the 2025 Subaru WRX tS. With Brembo brakes, STi-tuned damping, and a flat-four engine that keeps the center of gravity low, the WRX tS is a lively, precise companion on back roads. It’s not perfect—assist systems can feel heavy-handed, the manual shifter lacks Germanic snap, and storage space is limited—but the adjustable drive modes and chassis balance make a strong case for rally-bred fun that still works for everyday driving.

Energy policy takes center stage as the federal government directs substantial funding into Westinghouse technology, large reactors, and small modular reactors to meet the soaring demand from data centers. We break down why nuclear is back on the table, what it means for the grid, and how fuel infrastructure and timelines could influence your power bill. Lastly, we examine a freight market under pressure, characterized by declining volumes, stricter driver enforcement, and the risk of losing up to 600,000 drivers. Expect fewer trucks, higher rates, and ripple effects on everything from groceries to gadgets.

If this deep dive helped you see the road ahead more clearly, follow The TechMobility Podcast, share this episode with a friend, and tell us your thoughts—are you optimistic about EVs, nuclear, or neither? Your input guides what we explore next.

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The future rarely moves in a straight line—and this week’s episode proves it. We explore four stories that reveal how technology, markets, and human behavior collide in unexpected ways.

We begin with GM’s sudden decision to halt the Chevrolet BrightDrop EV vans, just as fleet upfitters and RV manufacturers were getting onboard. We examine why the Zevo 600 platform—AWD, large battery, OTA updates, and Chevrolet’s national service network—looked like a smart bridge strategy for electric RVs and commercial EV adoption. And we discuss what automakers lose when momentum disappears overnight.

Next, we dive into the world of high-stack running shoes with carbon-fiber plates, breaking down how energy return works, why instability increases as stack heights rise, and how “smart shoes” could adapt fit to reduce injury risk. It’s a perfect example of performance innovation bumping into real-world biomechanics.

From the ground to the skies, we analyze Boeing’s quiet resurgence and the early moves toward a next-generation narrow-body aircraft. With stricter FAA oversight, airline feedback loops, and pressure from Airbus, we explore what truly drives aerospace innovation—and why it takes decades, not news cycles.

Finally, we examine a future-facing agricultural scenario where AI-driven lithium mining accelerates aquifer depletion during drought conditions. The result? Disrupted irrigation, strained rural infrastructure, stressed livestock operations, and cascading economic impacts. We outline practical strategies such as diversified sourcing, water-reuse technology, and preparing for a shift toward more abundant battery chemistries.

If you’re interested in mobility, EVs, aviation, sustainability, agriculture, energy, or the systems that connect them, this episode offers a grounded, big-picture view of where resilience is being built—and where it’s breaking down.

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The headlines claim car buyers don’t want EVs, yet Mercedes just approved a fully electric CLA and a flexible platform to support hybrids and gas models as well. We explain why platform strategy—not hype—determines winners: amortized R&D, quicker model updates, and the ability to meet demand without risking the entire company on one powertrain. We also discuss pricing pressures, tariffs, and how software services and over-the-air updates help premium brands make the numbers work after the sale.

Then, we shift from spreadsheets to seat time. A 2025 Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus AWD hatchback weathered Midwest storms, stayed quiet and balanced, and showed us how a solid chassis can subtly influence driving. The drive ended with a ticket and a reset on speed discipline, but it also reminded us why this compact hatch exceeds expectations: strong torque, simple elegance, and confidence for road trips—with only a few flaws like non-flat folding seats and no fog lights.

Work life isn’t staying in its lane either. Return-to-office mandates promised increased productivity but often delivered performance theater—where being seen is more important than getting results. We explore what employers risk by ignoring the value of autonomy, and why the best talent might leave as the labor market shifts. Finally, we venture into dirt and snow with an Audi-branded electric mountain bike built by Fantic—offering four assist modes, impressive range, and a design inspired by Dakar—and examine ultralight electric snowbikes that bring quiet, low-emission mobility to winter terrain.

If you care about the future of mobility—EV platforms, driver-focused compacts, hybrid work realities, and new electric adventures on trails and snow—you’ll find something here at The TechMobility Show to debate or act on. Enjoy the ride, then subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review to help more curious listeners discover the show.

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A familiar automotive nameplate gets a bold update. We start with Toyota’s plan to make the Corolla impossible to ignore: a low, wide, sporty design paired with a platform capable of supporting gasoline, hybrid, battery electric, or hydrogen powertrains. Instead of relying on a single future, Toyota is designing for many—shrinking engines without sacrificing power, improving aerodynamics, and using flexible manufacturing to cut lead times so you can order what you want and get it quickly. If dealers keep prices reasonable, a desirable $25K sedan could attract buyers away from costly crossovers.

From roads to fields, we shift to the farm where simple green algae acts as a probiotic for soil. Live Chlorella vulgaris jump-starts microbial activity through rhizophagy, enhancing nutrient cycling, strengthening roots, and increasing yields while reducing synthetic fertilizer use by a third to half. Farmers can tank-mix it into existing spray passes, lowering runoff and input costs without sacrificing performance. It’s a practical way to achieve healthier fields, cleaner water, and better profit margins.

Next, we set sail—literally. The Neoliner Origin, a modern wind-powered RoRo, just completed an Atlantic crossing with rigid sails and a diesel-electric backup. It transports vehicles, containers, and refrigerated goods while aiming for up to 80 percent lower emissions than traditional ships. The motivation isn’t romance; it’s economics: lower fuel risk, regulatory resilience, and reliable operation. Like autos and agriculture, winners in shipping are those designing for efficiency that pays off.

The episode wraps up with the job outlook for the next decade. Warehousing and transportation will grow, but automation and autonomous trucking are reshaping roles. Healthcare expands to meet demographic demand, with technology handling routine tasks so people can focus on complex care. Office support, retail cashiers, and some clerical roles continue to decline due to AI and self-service. Across cars, farms, ships, and jobs, one question guides us: can we reduce cost and carbon while increasing reliability?

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