Episode 564: Special Guests Franz and Lars Discuss Model S and X’s Legacy Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2026-09-29 | Episode 564: Special Guests Franz and Lars Discuss Model S and X’s Legacy
Episode 530: What Panasonic’s Next-Gen Battery Means for Tesla Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-09-28 | Panasonic is working on a next-gen battery cell that could bring serious improvements to Tesla vehicles. But how will Tesla choose to utilize it? Plus: more details are seemingly unearthed about the upcoming more-affordable Model Y, Nissan pulls one of its EVs from the US market, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly or (10% discounted!) annual pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every Patreon tier! Also, don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call is 1-888-989-8752. DOUBLE-EV RAFFLE FOR A GREAT CAUSE: ClimateXChange is back with their 10th annual EV raffle, and this year there are TWO raffles: a Luxury Raffle with a grand prize of ANY EV you want up to $120,000, and a second Mini-Raffle with a grand prize of any EV up to $45,000 (such as a Model 3 or Model Y). Enter now and get a bonus entry into their $10,000 Early Bird Raffle at carbonraffle.org/rtl INTERESTED IN A FLEXIBLE EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!). BONUS: If you're in or going to be in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, bring your car to be professionally detailed at Immaculate Reflections! They're offering a Summer special: $200 off of any paint correction service, $500 off of any ceramic coating package, and 15% off of any PPF package. Check out his website at irdetailing.com
Episode 529: Elon Musk Gives FSD v14 and AI5 Updates Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-09-21 | Tesla CEO Elon Musk gives a notable update on both FSD Supervised version 14 as well as the potential power of the upcoming AI5 FSD Computer. Plus: more evidence mounts that the Model 3 will soon get a front bumper camera and a turn signal stalk, Rivian breaks ground on its new assembly plant in Georgia, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly or (10% discounted!) annual pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every Patreon tier! Also, don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call is 1-888-989-8752. COOL GIVEAWAY: TesBros is running a sweet giveaway you won't want to miss out on. Enter now to win a FULL-BODY DIY PPF wrap kit for either the new Model Y or the Cybertruck. You can go with colored PPF, clear matte or gloss PPF, or a vinyl wrap on the Cybertruck. It's a prize worth up to $2500! Enter here: https://station.page/tesbros/contest/ridethelightning INTERESTED IN A FLEXIBLE EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!). BONUS: If you're in or going to be in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, bring your car to be professionally detailed at Immaculate Reflections! They're offering a Summer special: $200 off of any paint correction service, $500 off of any ceramic coating package, and 15% off of any PPF package. Check out his website at irdetailing.com
Episode 528: Robotaxi Gearing Up to Launch in 2 More States Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-09-14 | On this week’s episode of Ride the Lightning: The Tesla and EV Podcast, new evidence suggests Tesla’s Robotaxi network is about to roll out in two more southwestern US states. Plus: using non-Tesla chargers is about to get easier for Tesla owners in a new pilot program, Tesla Energy unveils the Megablock, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly or (10% discounted!) annual pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every Patreon tier! Also, don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call is 1-888-989-8752. INTERESTED IN A FLEXIBLE EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!). BONUS: If you're in or going to be in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, bring your car to be professionally detailed at Immaculate Reflections! They're offering a Summer special: $200 off of any paint correction service, $500 off of any ceramic coating package, and 15% off of any PPF package. Check out his website at irdetailing.com
Episode 527: My First Robotaxi Ride! Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-09-07 | I took my first Robotaxi ride and I’d love to tell you all about my experience. Plus: Tesla published its Master Plan Part 4, then continued its busy week by proposing a massive new CEO compensation package, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly or (10% discounted!) annual pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every Patreon tier! Also, don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call is 1-888-989-8752. INTERESTED IN A FLEXIBLE EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!). BONUS: If you're in or going to be in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, bring your car to be professionally detailed at Immaculate Reflections! They're offering a Summer special: $200 off of any paint correction service, $500 off of any ceramic coating package, and 15% off of any PPF package. Check out his website at irdetailing.com
Episode 526: New Model Y Performance Is Here and It’s Even Better Than We’d Hoped Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-08-31 | Tesla Europe officially revealed the new Model Y Performance, and it’s packing a few surprises that make it even better than anticipated. Plus: Tesla has been making news all around the world this week, from FSD Supervised rolling out in its first new region to Cybertruck launching in a new territory to the possible return of the Model S and Model X to Europe, and much more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly or (10% discounted!) annual pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every Patreon tier! Also, don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call is 1-888-989-8752. LAST-MINUTE CHANCE TO WIN AN EV WHILE GIVING TO A GREAT CAUSE: The raffle ends on Monday, September 1 at 7pm ET! For your final chance to win your dream EV in the 2025 ChesedChicago raffle and help a great cause in the process, head to https://ccraffle.com?utm_source=ridethelightning&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=06.15.25 . Use code RTL for $25 off of two tickets or $500 off of 15 tickets. Whether you win or not, you're helping a great organization help families in need. WANT TO CUSTOMIZE YOUR TESLA AT HOME? TesBros has really great in-house-designed custom wrap kits made specifically for Teslas. Their kits include everything you need for installation: pre-cut film, squeegees, prep solutions, microfibers, wrap gloves, heat gun, and more. They offer in-house support if you need it and step-by-step video courses. To see everything they've got, Go to tesbros.com and use code POD15 for 15% off your first order. INTERESTED IN A FLEXIBLE EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!). BONUS: If you're in or going to be in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, bring your car to be professionally detailed at Immaculate Reflections! They're offering a Summer special: $200 off of any paint correction service, $500 off of any ceramic coating package, and 15% off of any PPF package. Check out his website at irdetailing.com
Episode 525: Tons of New Model Y L Details Revealed Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-08-24 | The new six-seat, longer-wheelbase Model Y L has officially launched in China, and we’ve got a ton of new details about the biggest Model Y ever as a result – and some of them are very pleasantly surprising! Plus: Model 3 adds a highly desired part back into the interior in China; the Model S, X, and Cybertruck get a fancy new Luxe Package; and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly or (10% discounted!) annual pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every Patreon tier! And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. INTERESTED IN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!). BONUS: If you're in or going to be in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, bring your car to Immaculate Reflections! They're offering a Summer special: $200 off of any paint correction service, $500 off of any ceramic coating package, and 15% off of any PPF package. Check out the website at irdetailing.com
Episode 524: New Patent Suggests Next-Gen Roadster Might Be ‘Fan’-tastic Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-08-17 | A new patent applied for by Tesla suggests that the next-gen Roadster might be doing some extra-crazy stuff to make it outperform other supercars. Plus: the Cybertruck’s off-road armor package finally arrives, a near-future timeline and big expectations arrive for the upcoming version 14 of FSD Supervised, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly or (10% discounted!) annual pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every Patreon tier! And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. INTERESTED IN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!). BONUS: If you're in or going to be in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, bring your car to Immaculate Reflections! They're offering a Summer special: $200 off of any paint correction service, $500 off of any ceramic coating package, and 15% off of any PPF package. Check out the website at irdetailing.com
Episode 523: Special Guest: Tesla Tipster Sawyer Merritt Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-08-10 | I’m joined by perhaps the only person in the Tesla community who pays closer attention to it than I do: Tesla tipster Sawyer Merritt, who I regularly cite on this podcast. We’ll talk about how he got into the world of Tesla, what motivates him to do what he does, why he feels Tesla needs to start advertising, and much more. Enjoy! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly or (10% discounted!) annual pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every Patreon tier! And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. WANT TO CUSTOMIZE YOUR TESLA AT HOME? TesBros has really great in-house-designed custom wrap kits made specifically for Teslas. Their kits include everything you need for installation: pre-cut film, squeegees, prep solutions, microfibers, wrap gloves, heat gun, and more. They offer in-house support if you need it and step-by-step video courses. To see everything they've got, Go to tesbros.com and use code POD15 for 15% off your first order. INTERESTED IN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!). BONUS: If you're in or going to be in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, bring your car to Immaculate Reflections! They're offering a Summer special: $200 off of any paint correction service, $500 off of any ceramic coating package, and 15% off of any PPF package. Check out the website at irdetailing.com
Episode 522: More Affordable Model Y Spied Up Close – Here’s What We Know Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-08-03 | The more affordable version of the Model Y has been spotted in a parking lot and captured on video. I’ll tell you about what we now know for sure about what could be Tesla’s lowest-price vehicle yet. Plus: it turns out that yes, the new Roadster really is back; a slightly different version of Tesla’s Robotaxi service launches in my city, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly or (10% discounted!) annual pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every Patreon tier! And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. INTERESTED IN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!). BONUS: If you're in or going to be in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, bring your car to Immaculate Reflections! They're offering a Summer special: $200 off of any paint correction service, $500 off of any ceramic coating package, and 15% off of any PPF package. Check out their website at irdetailing.com
Episode 521: Q2 Earnings Call Recap, Highlights, and Analysis Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-07-27 | Tesla held its earnings call for Q2, and I’ve got highlight clips from Elon Musk and the Tesla executive team, plus a summary and analysis of all the news. Plus: the Tesla Diner is now open – and I got to go eat there! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly or (10% discounted!) annual pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every Patreon tier! WIN AN EV WHILE GIVING TO A GREAT CAUSE: For your chance to win your dream EV in the 2025 ChesedChicago raffle, head to https://ccraffle.com?utm_source=ridethelightning&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=06.15.25 . Hurry, tickets are limited and only 9,999 tickets will be sold, get your tickets today and use code RTL for $25 off of two tickets or $500 off of 15 tickets. Whether you win or not, you're helping a great organization help families in need. And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. INTERESTED IN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!). BONUS: If you're in or going to be in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, bring your car to Immaculate Reflections! They're offering a Summer special: $200 off of any paint correction service, $500 off of any ceramic coating package, and 15% off of any PPF package. And I realize that 15% may not sound like a lot, but on a front end PPF that’s a solid couple hundred bucks off, and if you go full-body PPF like me you’re saving over $1000 right there. Thank you Jeff for offering these generous discounts to my audience! Check out his website at irdetailing.com
Episode 520: Tesla Reveals Longer, Six-Seat Model Y L Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-07-20 | Tesla introduces a six-seat, longer Model Y variant in China. Plus: a new X post by Tesla CEO Elon Musk has many wondering if the new Tesla Roadster might finally be ready for a re-reveal, Tesla’s summer software update delivers a bunch of fun new features, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly or annual pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. INTERESTED IN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!). BONUS: If you're in or going to be in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, bring your car to Immaculate Reflections! They're offering a Summer special: $200 off of any paint correction service, $500 off of any ceramic coating package, and 15% off of any PPF package. And I realize that 15% may not sound like a lot, but on a front end PPF that’s a solid couple hundred bucks off, and if you go full-body PPF like me you’re saving over $1000 right there. Thank you Jeff for offering these generous discounts to my audience! Check out his website at irdetailing.com
Episode 519: The New King of Supercharging Stations Opens Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-07-13 | Tesla’s latest gigantic Supercharging station is online and it’s incredibly impressive. I’ll tell you all about it. Plus: the new Model 3 scores a huge safety rating in Europe, Tesla’s European FSD Supervised push continues, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly or annual pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. INTERESTED IN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!). BONUS: If you're in or going to be in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, bring your car to Immaculate Reflections! They're offering a Summer special: $200 off of any paint correction service, $500 off of any ceramic coating package, and 15% off of any PPF package. And I realize that 15% may not sound like a lot, but on a front end PPF that’s a solid couple hundred bucks off, and if you go full-body PPF like me you’re saving over $1000 right there. Thank you Jeff for offering these generous discounts to my audience! Check out his website at irdetailing.com
Episode 518: Talking to the Owner of the First Autonomously Delivered Tesla Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-07-06 | I talk to the recipient of Tesla’s – and automotive history’s – first-ever autonomously delivered vehicle about his experience (interview starts at the 35:03 mark). Plus: I’ll go over Tesla’s Q2 production and delivery numbers, the fate of the EV federal tax credit, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly or annual pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. WIN AN EV WHILE GIVING TO A GREAT CAUSE: For your chance to win your dream EV in the 2025 ChesedChicago raffle, head to https://ccraffle.com?utm_source=ridethelightning&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=06.15.25 . Hurry, tickets are limited and only 9,999 tickets will be sold, get your tickets today and use code RTL for $25 off of two tickets or $500 off of 15 tickets. Whether you win or not, you're helping a great organization help families in need. INTERESTED IN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!). BONUS: If you're in or going to be in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, bring your car to Immaculate Reflections! They're offering a Summer special: $200 off of any paint correction service, $500 off of any ceramic coating package, and 15% off of any PPF package. And I realize that 15% may not sound like a lot, but on a front end PPF that’s a solid couple hundred bucks off, and if you go full-body PPF like me you’re saving over $1000 right there. Thank you Jeff for offering these generous discounts to my audience! Check out his website at irdetailing.com
Episode 517: Interview With a Robotaxi User Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-06-29 | I talk to a Robotaxi user who took lots of rides in phase one of Tesla’s autonomous ride-hailing service in Austin. Plus: the first self-delivering Tesla has found its new owner, Tesla is currently testing a virtual queuing system for Supercharging, and more! Thank you to all Patreon backers for your generous pledges! I hope you enjoy your ad-free early access to this one, and thanks for your continued support on Patreon! And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. WIN AN EV WHILE GIVING TO A GREAT CAUSE: For your chance to win your dream EV in the 2025 ChesedChicago raffle, head to https://ccraffle.com?utm_source=ridethelightning&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=06.15.25 . Hurry, tickets are limited and only 9,999 tickets will be sold, get your tickets today and use code RTL for $25 off of two tickets or $500 off of 15 tickets. Whether you win or not, you're helping a great organization help families in need. INTERESTED IN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!). BONUS: If you're in or going to be in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, bring your car to Immaculate Reflections! They're offering a Summer special: $200 off of any paint correction service, $500 off of any ceramic coating package, and 15% off of any PPF package. And I realize that 15% may not sound like a lot, but on a front end PPF that’s a solid couple hundred bucks off, and if you go full-body PPF like me you’re saving over $1000 right there. Thank you Jeff for offering these generous discounts to my audience! Check out his website at irdetailing.com
Episode 516: Happy Tesla Robotaxi Launch! Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-06-22 | Tesla’s robotaxi service officially launches in Austin, marking a major milestone in the company’s decade-long quest to achieve autonomous driving. Plus: Tesla might be making another new Model Y variant, we may have just gotten a sneak peek at Tesla’s AI5 FSD Computer, and more! Thank you to all Patreon backers for your generous pledges! I hope you enjoy your ad-free early access to this one, and thanks for your continued support on Patreon! And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. WIN AN EV WHILE GIVING TO A GREAT CAUSE: For your chance to win your dream EV in the 2025 ChesedChicago raffle, head to https://ccraffle.com?utm_source=ridethelightning&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=06.15.25 . Hurry, tickets are limited and only 9,999 tickets will be sold, get your tickets today and use code RTL for $25 off of two tickets or $500 off of 15 tickets. Whether you win or not, you're helping a great organization help families in need. INTERESTED IN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 515: Updated Model S and X Officially Announced Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-06-15 | Tesla has finally launched the updated Model S and X. I’ll tell you about all the changes and what I think of them. Plus: another new Model Y variant appears to be coming very soon, we’ve got a few new robotaxi updates to discuss, and more! Thank you to all Patreon backers for your generous pledges! I hope you enjoy your ad-free early access to this one, and thanks for your continued support on Patreon! And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. WIN AN EV WHILE GIVING TO A GREAT CAUSE: For your chance to win your dream EV in the 2025 ChesedChicago raffle, head to https://ccraffle.com?utm_source=ridethelightning&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=06.15.25 . Hurry, tickets are limited and only 9,999 tickets will be sold, get your tickets today and use code RTL for $25 off of two tickets or $500 off of 15 tickets. Whether you win or not, you're helping a great organization help families in need. INTERESTED IN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 514: Three New Model 3 Updates Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-06-08 | Tesla makes three very unique updates to the Model 3 that have absolutely nothing to do with each other but are nevertheless interesting. Plus: the state of New Jersey makes a baffling decision that forces Tesla to decommission Superchargers along the New Jersey Turnpike, Volkswagen plans to go big with Rivian’s software, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. CHECK OUT COOL NEW WHEELS FOR YOUR TESLA: Get The New Aero's beautiful and aero-efficient wheels designed for Teslas by Tesla owners at www.TNAwheels.com and use the discount code TeslaPodcast for a 10% discount. INTERESTED IN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 513: Tesla Robotaxis Get Ready in Austin Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-06-01 | We’ve got a reported date for the first driverless robotaxi rides in Austin, Texas, along with a long-ago autonomy forecast that might finally be on the cusp of coming true. Plus: Tesla’s letting you take a two-day test drive of any car you like, Rivian takes a big step towards the R2 going into full production, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. CHECK OUT COOL NEW WHEELS FOR YOUR TESLA: Get The New Aero's beautiful and aero-efficient wheels designed for Teslas by Tesla owners at www.TNAwheels.com and use the discount code TeslaPodcast for a 10% discount. INTERESTED IN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 512: New Model Y Performance, Updated S and X Spotted! Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-05-25 | The new Model Y Performance, an updated Model S, and an updated Model X were all spotted out in the wild – separately! – suggesting that the debuts of those vehicles are imminent. Plus: owners of the refreshed Model 3 and Model Y can now get a subtle but premium upgrade to their dashboards, new details on the upcoming robotaxi rollout in Austin, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. CHECK OUT COOL NEW WHEELS FOR YOUR TESLA: Get The New Aero's beautiful and aero-efficient wheels designed for Teslas by Tesla owners at www.TNAwheels.com and use the discount code TeslaPodcast for a 10% discount. INTERESTED IN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Love the great outdoors? Love epic road trips even more? Check out Xcelerate Auto’s running blog charting the epic road trip of one of their XCare members, a retired marketing professor and Model X owner. Her name is Diana, and she’s driving 2500 miles solo from North Carolina to Montana. Xcelerate has even created a special discount for their most excellent extended warranty, in her honor. Use the code DIANA25 to get $100 off the “One-time Payment” option at www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare! P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 511: First Responders and Teachers Now Get a Tesla Discount Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-05-18 | Tesla expands its military discount program to include additional American heroes, Tesla’s ‘Robotaxi’ and ‘Cybercab’ trademarks hit roadblocks, FSD is finally set to (partially) roll out in Europe, Toyota gets a bit more serious about EVs, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. CHECK OUT COOL NEW WHEELS FOR YOUR TESLA: Get The New Aero's beautiful and aero-efficient wheels designed for Teslas by Tesla owners at www.TNAwheels.com and use the discount code TeslaPodcast for a 10% discount. INTERESTED IN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 510: A Cheaper Model Y Arrives Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-05-11 | Tesla has reintroduced the Long-Range Rear-Wheel Drive Model Y, and the Juniper version of it offers incredible value. Plus: there’s good news and bad news for Cybertruck owners, Rivian ramps up in Illinois to prepare for the R2, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. INTERESTED IN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 509: Tesla Working on Longer-Wheelbase, 3-Row Model Y? Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-05-04 | A new report suggests that Tesla might be readying a three-row Model Y with a longer wheelbase in China, but if it’s true, might it make its way to the US as well? Plus: Tesla’s regulatory path to getting the Cybercab approved just got easier, a newly announced EV pickup truck is taking a unique strategy to be as affordable as possible, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. INTERESTED IN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 508: Analyzing Tesla’s Q1 Earnings Call Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-04-27 | Tesla held its quarterly earnings call for Q1 2025, and there was plenty covered, from the robotaxis launching in the near future to Optimus to the more affordable Teslas and more. I’ll have highlight clips from the Tesla executive team plus my recap and analysis. If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. INTERESTED IN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 507: Cheaper Tesla Reportedly Delayed Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-04-20 | The more affordable Tesla that I’ve been calling the ‘Model 2.5’ is reportedly delayed, one Indiana police department has five years of fleet data that shows that using Teslas as police cars saves taxpayers a ton of money, the largest free EV charging park in the world is at Giga Berlin, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. INTERESTED IN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 506: A Cheaper Cybertruck Finally Arrives Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-04-13 | Tesla has finally rolled out the rear-wheel drive Cybertruck, but it’s VERY different from the one they first announced. I’ll tell you all about what you get and what you don’t on this cheaper version of Tesla’s stainless steel truck. Plus: Tesla’s imminent Spring software update brings a much-requested new feature that should keep a lot of Model Y rear liftgates from getting dented, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. INTERESTED IN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 505: Analyzing Tesla’s Q1 Production and Delivery Numbers Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-04-06 | Tesla announces its first-quarter vehicle production and delivery numbers, and the news isn’t the best – with fellow EV automakers Rivian and Lucid largely in the same boat. Plus: Tesla’s found its chef for its upcoming drive-in diner Supercharger in Hollywood, the regular version of the new Model Y is now available, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. INTERESTED IN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 504: Special Guest: Unplugged Performance’s Ben Schaffer Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-03-30 | Tesla mod shop Unplugged Performance's president and founder Ben Schaffer joins me for an interview about the company’s approach to modifying the Cybertruck, the new Model 3 and new Model Y, as well as their big bet on making Tesla police vehicles through their UPfit program. Enjoy! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! FOR FIRST-TIME TESLA BUYERS: The referral program is back and it's the best one in a while! You can get $500 off your Model 3 or classic Model Y purchase (or $1000 off of Cybertruck, Model S, or Model X) by ordering through my referral link. Clicking this will take you to the Tesla website where you can order with the discount applied: https://ts.la/ryan73014 And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. INTERESTED IN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
My Thoughts on What’s Happening Around Tesla Right Now Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-03-24 | I've given this a lot of thought and wanted to talk to you about how I feel regarding what's happening around Tesla right now. If you're not interested in this, feel free to skip this one, as the regular episodes will remain on their normal schedule. If you listen and then choose to respond, I hope you'll be considerate towards me and your fellow listeners in the comments. Thank you.
Episode 503: Tesla Reportedly Readying a Smaller, Cheaper Model Y Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-03-23 | A new report out of China says that Tesla is planning a smaller version of the Model Y. Plus: a new software update lets you check on your car’s battery health, the Cybercab gets one step closer to operating on public streets in California, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! FOR FIRST-TIME TESLA BUYERS: The referral program is back and it's the best one in a while! You can get $500 off your Model 3 or classic Model Y purchase (or $1000 off of Cybertruck, Model S, or Model X) by ordering through my referral link. Clicking this will take you to the Tesla website where you can order with the discount applied: https://ts.la/ryan73014 And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. INTERESTED IN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 502: Out With the Old (Model Y), in With the New (Model Y) Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-03-16 | Tesla is no longer offering custom orders for the classic Model Y, signaling the end of the line for the first generation of the world’s best-selling vehicle and the beginning of its second generation. Plus: Model 3 gets an impressive financing incentive, Cybertruck might finally be heading Down Under, Rivian is extending a hand to orphaned Fisker Ocean owners, and more! NOTE: The non-Tesla EV segment runs from 30:48-41:55 if you'd prefer to skip it. If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! FOR FIRST-TIME TESLA BUYERS: The referral program is back and it's the best one in a while! You can get $500 off your Model 3 or classic Model Y purchase (or $1000 off of Cybertruck, Model S, or Model X) by ordering through my referral link. Clicking this will take you to the Tesla website where you can order with the discount applied: https://ts.la/ryan73014 And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. INTERESTED IN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off their “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 501: Special Guest: Tesla Co-Founder JB Straubel Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-03-09 | Tesla co-founder, current board member, and former Chief Technical Officer JB Straubel joins me to discuss Tesla’s early days, his interest in batteries, building the first Gigafactory, his battery recycling efforts at Redwood Materials, and more. Enjoy! TIMECODES 10:45 Interview starts 11:33 More of a car guy or engineering guy? 12:14 Origin of his interest in batteries 12:47 Building his first EV…long before Tesla 14:43 Did he always want to go to Stanford for engineering? 15:35 How JB met Elon 17:55 Recalling when he helped build the first Lotus Elise engineering mule for Tesla 18:43 JB still has his original Tesla Roadster 20:30 On the origins of Gigafactory 1, aka Giga Nevada 21:28 What car(s) JB daily drives 24:11 How Tesla acquired the NUMMI plant from Toyota 25:16 What were the challenges of building the Model S versus the Roadster 27:41 How JB felt when the Model S started winning awards, like Motor Trend’s Car of the Year 29:07 Did Panasonic get on board with Giga 1 right away? 32:21 How Model 3’s “production Hell” was for JB 33:33 When JB felt like Tesla was going to be OK 35:07 When he started thinking about battery recycling 36:41 How JB feels about EV FUD 38:08 Battery recycling actually leads to better quality batteries 39:17 Figuring out what it would take to start Redwood Materials 41:03 It’s not just about EV batteries 42:15 Redwood Materials’ not-so-secret master plan 43:48 Goals for scaling Redwood Materials 45:04 Expansion plans 46:20 A tidal wave of EV battery recycling is coming 47:24 How much education is needed on the corporate side? 48:42 What about educating the general public about battery recycling? 50:32 What can Tesla/EV owners do to help spread the word about battery recycling? 52:07 Yes, you can send your ready-to-be-recycled batteries to Redwood Materials If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! FOR FIRST-TIME TESLA BUYERS: The referral program is back and it's the best one in a while! You can get $2500 off of your Model 3 or $500 off your classic Model Y purchase (or $1000 off of Cybertruck, Model S, or Model X) by ordering through my referral link. Clicking this will take you to the Tesla website where you can order with the discount applied: https://ts.la/ryan73014 And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. INTERESTED IN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? Be a part of the future of transportation with XCare, the first extended warranty designed & built exclusively for EV owners, by EV owners. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off our “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 500: Special Guest: Tesla Chief Designer Franz von Holzhausen Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-03-02 | Tesla’s Chief Designer Franz von Holzhausen joins me for the third time to celebrate my 500th episode. We discuss his longevity at Tesla, the new Model Y, paint colors, wheel design, the next-gen Roadster, and more. Enjoy! Timecodes: 8:28 Start of interview 10:02 What Franz worked on the day I came in for the interview 11:38 Why he has stayed at Tesla so long (16+ years so far) 12:20 His longevity at Tesla is unusual in the design world 15:10 Tesla’s mission is what drives Franz 16:28 How his year-one-at-Tesla self would feel if he saw what the 2025 version of Franz is building 17:33 Reacting to seeing his work every day on the roads 18:45 What Franz thinks when he sees modded/customized customer cars 22:03 What he’s daily driving right now 24:54 Franz’s favorite thing he’s ever designed at Tesla 26:48 How Optimus has challenged him as a designer 29:23 Who wins when the design and engineering teams don’t agree? 30:45 An example of what happens when engineering and design work with each other to achieve a mutually agreeable solution 32:17 Does the Cybertruck FUD drive him nuts? 35:00 What design tweaks might we see in the new Model Y Performance? 40:05 Discussing the new diffused-light rear light bar 41:53 Will the Y’s new light bar be used on any future vehicles? 42:44 How he feels about badges on the outside of his cars 44:43 The turn signal stalk’s return on the new Model Y 46:47 Franz’s favorite wheel design that he’s ever done 50:36 Will we ever get more color choices versus simply refreshing the existing colors? 55:05 About the new Glacier Blue paint color 56:21 Are we getting Glacier Blue in the US? 56:55 Is Midnight Cherry Red discontinued at Giga Berlin? 58:44 How Franz is thinking about the next-gen Roadster now versus the original design for it from 2017 1:00:21 His design intentions/philosophy for the upcoming more-affordable cars 1:02:24 One more Roadster tidbit If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! FOR FIRST-TIME TESLA BUYERS: The referral program is back and it's the best one in a while! You can get $2500 off of your Model 3 or $500 off your classic Model Y purchase (or $1000 off of Cybertruck, Model S, or Model X) by ordering through my referral link. Clicking this will take you to the Tesla website where you can order with the discount applied: https://ts.la/ryan73014 And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. INTERESTED IN AN EXTENDED WARRANTY FOR YOUR TESLA? It’s not just products that can be redesigned. So can an entire customer experience. That’s what you get with XCare, the first extended warranty built exclusively for EVs, and the top-rated customer experience. Use the code Lightning to get $100 off our “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 499: Special Guest: Tesla Engineering VP Lars Moravy Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-02-23 | Tesla’s Vice President of Engineering Lars Moravy joins me for a candid conversation spanning a wide-ranging number of topics, from the new Model Y to his memories of pivotal moments in Tesla history to the next-gen Roadster and even the upcoming more-affordable cars. Enjoy! Timecodes: 6:39 Interview begins 7:36 Lars on when he first got into cars 9:42 Remembering his first job in the auto industry, at Honda, and what led him to Tesla 14:01 Early days at Tesla 15:19 He knew the Model S was going to be a special car 17:22 Engineering the falcon-wing doors of the Model X 19:34 The charger snake prototype and its “hubris” 20:21 The Cybercab will be road trip capable 23:26 The most satisfying vehicle project he’s worked on 26:07 Why Tesla doesn’t have any plans to build any more HFS vehicles 26:43 The Cybercab isn’t “painted” in the traditional sense 28:44 Remembering Model 3’s “production hell” 31:20 Tesla fully expected the Model Y to become the world’s best-selling vehicle 33:50 Building the next-gen Roadster prototype 35:36 Status update on the next-gen Roadster 40:55 Learnings from the Model 3 refresh that have been applied to the new Model Y 43:25 Balancing between pushing the envelope and playing it safe on the new Model Y 45:42 The reason the new Model Y doesn’t have steer by wire 47:25 Why the new Model Y doesn’t have a 48v architecture 48:54 The status of the Model S and Model X 50:45 What Lars daily drives 51:50 Why the new Model 3 doesn’t use gigacastings 52:38 Lars’s favorite piece of engineering on any of the cars 54:58 Will the front bumper camera come to the S, X, and 3? 55:09 Will the turn signal stalk return to any of the other vehicles besides Model Y? 55:38 A teaser for the upcoming more-affordable vehicles If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! FOR FIRST-TIME TESLA BUYERS: The referral program is back and it's the best one in a while! You can get $2500 off of your Model 3 or $500 off your classic Model Y purchase (or $1000 off of Cybertruck, Model S, or Model X) by ordering through my referral link. Clicking this will take you to the Tesla website where you can order with the discount applied: https://ts.la/ryan73014 And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. LAST CALL: Win the custom-configured Tesla of your dreams in the 9th annual Climate XChange raffle! The taxes are paid if you win, and either way, the money goes to a great nonprofit cause. To get your tickets, go to carbonraffle.org/RTL Engineering innovation doesn’t just build great electric cars. It builds the foundation for an entire automotive ecosystem. And being a part of that means ensuring your Tesla is protected long after its original warranty expires. Get XCare, the first extended warranty built exclusively for EVs. Last chance to use our special anniversary code RTLOVE for $200 off our “One-time Payment” option! Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 498: Jay Leno Gets New Details on the New Model Y Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-02-16 | Comedian and world-renowned car enthusiast Jay Leno – perhaps Tesla’s biggest celebrity fan – welcomed Tesla Chief Designer Franz von Holzhausen and VP of Engineering Lars Moravy to his garage this week to show off the new Model Y, and we learned a lot of fun things about the refreshed vehicle in the process. Plus: thieves who try to steal the copper out of Tesla Supercharging cables will soon be in for a not-so-fun surprise, an update on the timeline for the first 500kW Superchargers, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! FOR FIRST-TIME TESLA BUYERS: The referral program is back and it's the best one in a while! You can get $2500 off of your Model 3 or $500 off your classic Model Y purchase (or $1000 off of Cybertruck, Model S, or Model X) by ordering through my referral link. Clicking this will take you to the Tesla website where you can order with the discount applied: https://ts.la/ryan73014 And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. NEW: Win the custom-configured Tesla of your dreams in the 9th annual Climate XChange raffle! The taxes are paid if you win, and either way, the money goes to a great nonprofit cause. To get your tickets, go to carbonraffle.org/RTL What’s sweeter than a box of chocolate truffles? Hard to beat… but when it comes to showing your Tesla a whole lotta love, there’s nothing like XCare’s extended warranty. I unwrapped a special code for you, too: use RTLOVE to get $200 off when you select the One-time Payment option, through February 28. Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 497: New Model Y – My First Hands-On Impressions Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-02-09 | I got an up-close-and-personal look at the new Model Y and heard from two senior Tesla employees from the Model Y team about the redesigned car. Highlights from that, plus: the Cybertruck now formally gets the point-of-sale $7500 tax credit, good news for Tesla Insurance customers who use Full Self-Driving a lot, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! FOR FIRST-TIME TESLA BUYERS: The referral program is back and it's the best one in a while! You can get $2500 off of your Model 3 or $500 off your classic Model Y purchase (or $1000 off of Cybertruck, Model S, or Model X) by ordering through my referral link. Clicking this will take you to the Tesla website where you can order with the discount applied: https://ts.la/ryan73014 And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. NEW: Win the custom-configured Tesla of your dreams in the 9th annual Climate XChange raffle! The taxes are paid if you win, and either way, the money goes to a great nonprofit cause. To get your tickets, go to carbonraffle.org/RTL Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla, and don’t forget to use the discount code Lightning for $100 off your purchase. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 496: Q4 2024 Earnings Call Recap, Highlights, and Analysis Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-02-02 | Tesla held its Q4 earnings call this week, and among other things, it contained good news for those of you with Hardware 3.0 cars who’ve bought the FSD package. That plus the rest of the highlights from the call along with my analysis on a huge episode! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! FOR FIRST-TIME TESLA BUYERS: The referral program is back and it's the best one in a while! You can get $500 off of your Model 3 or Model Y purchase (or $1000 off of Cybertruck, Model S, or Model X) by ordering through my referral link. Clicking this will take you to the Tesla website where you can order with the discount applied: https://ts.la/ryan73014 And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. NEW: Win the custom-configured Tesla of your dreams in the 9th annual Climate XChange raffle! The taxes are paid if you win, and either way, the money goes to a great nonprofit cause. To get your tickets, go to carbonraffle.org/RTL Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla, and don’t forget to use the discount code Lightning for $100 off your purchase. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 495: New Model Y Announced for North America Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-01-26 | Tesla’s new refreshed Model Y, aka Project Juniper, has been announced for North America. I’ve got all the details including pricing and options. Plus: the new Model 3 takes home a trophy, Unplugged Performance shows some Los Angeles-area law enforcement officers how good of a patrol car the Model Y can be, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! FOR FIRST-TIME TESLA BUYERS: The referral program is back and it's the best one in a while! You can get $500 off of your Model 3 or Model Y purchase (or $1000 off of Cybertruck, Model S, or Model X) by ordering through my referral link. Clicking this will take you to the Tesla website where you can order with the discount applied: https://ts.la/ryan73014 And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. NEW: Win the custom-configured Tesla of your dreams in the 9th annual Climate XChange raffle! The taxes are paid if you win, and either way, the money goes to a great nonprofit cause. To get your tickets, go to carbonraffle.org/RTL Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla, and don’t forget to use the discount code Lightning for $100 off your purchase. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 494: Cybertruck Tops US EV Pickup Truck Sales in 2024 Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-01-19 | A not-even-fully-ramped-up-yet Cybertruck beats all of its competition to become the best-selling EV pickup truck of 2024. Plus: production of the new Model Y has reportedly begun in another one of Tesla’s gigafactories, Tesla tops another major automaker in global sales, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! FOR FIRST-TIME TESLA BUYERS: The referral program is back and it's the best one in a while! You can get $1500 off of your Model 3 or $1000 off your Model Y purchase (or $2000 off of Cybertruck, Model S, or Model X) by ordering through my referral link. Clicking this will take you to the Tesla website where you can order with the discount applied: https://ts.la/ryan73014 And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. NEW: Win the custom-configured Tesla of your dreams in the 9th annual Climate XChange raffle! The taxes are paid if you win, and either way, the money goes to a great nonprofit cause. To get your tickets, go to carbonraffle.org/RTL Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla, and don’t forget to use the discount code Lightning for $100 off your purchase. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 493: New Model Y (aka Project Juniper) Officially Revealed! Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-01-12 | The redesigned Model Y, aka Project Juniper, has been revealed by Tesla China. I’ll tell you about what’s new, my thoughts on the design, and when it’s launching in China. Plus: Tesla is the most searched-for car brand in America, every Tesla will soon get an AI chatbot, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! FOR FIRST-TIME TESLA BUYERS: The referral program is back and it's the best one in a while! You can get $1500 off of your Model 3 or $1000 off your Model Y purchase (or $2000 off of Cybertruck, Model S, or Model X) by ordering through my referral link. Clicking this will take you to the Tesla website where you can order with the discount applied: https://ts.la/ryan73014 And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. Go to www.xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla, and don’t forget to use the discount code Lightning for $100 off your purchase. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 492: Analyzing Tesla’s 2024 Production and Delivery Numbers Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2025-01-05 | Tesla releases its production and delivery totals for Q4 – and thus we know the numbers for all of 2024. Did they hit their goal? Plus: Cybertruck now qualifies for the $7500 point-of-sale tax credit, the new Model 3 wins a big award in Europe, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! FOR FIRST-TIME TESLA BUYERS: The referral program is back and it's the best one in a while! You can get $1500 off of your Model 3 or $1000 off your Model Y purchase (or $2000 off of Cybertruck, Model S, or Model X) by ordering through my referral link. Clicking this will take you to the Tesla website where you can order with the discount applied: https://ts.la/ryan73014 And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. Go to xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla, and don’t forget to use the discount code Lightning for $100 off your purchase. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 491: My 13 Tesla Predictions for 2025 Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2024-12-29 | It’s that time of year: time for my annual Tesla New Year’s predictions. I’ll make some predictions for what to expect from Tesla in 2025, as well as grade my predictions from last year. Plus: Tesla pivots from PPF to vinyl at its service centers, the Cybertruck gets one step closer to launching in China, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! FOR FIRST-TIME TESLA BUYERS: The referral program is back and it's the best one in a while! You can get $1500 off of your Model 3 or $1000 off your Model Y purchase (or $2000 off of Cybertruck, Model S, or Model X) by ordering through my referral link. Clicking this will take you to the Tesla website where you can order with the discount applied: https://ts.la/ryan73014 And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. NEW: Win the custom-configured Tesla of your dreams in the 9th annual Climate XChange raffle! The taxes are paid if you win, and either way, the money goes to a great nonprofit cause. To get your tickets, go to carbonraffle.org/RTL Go to xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla, and don’t forget to use the discount code Lightning for $100 off your purchase. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 490: Franz Shares Cybercab Design Insights Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2024-12-22 | Tesla Chief Designer Franz von Holzhausen gives a design overview of the Cybercab, Cybertruck owners get an interim supercharging speed boost as they wait for the full 500kW next year, FSD version 13 goes wide with good news for AI3 owners to boot, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! FOR FIRST-TIME TESLA BUYERS: The referral program is back and it's the best one in a while! You can get $1500 off of your Model 3 or $1000 off your Model Y purchase (or $2000 off of Cybertruck, Model S, or Model X) by ordering through my referral link. Clicking this will take you to the Tesla website where you can order with the discount applied: https://ts.la/ryan73014 And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. NEW: Win the custom-configured Tesla of your dreams in the 9th annual Climate XChange raffle! The taxes are paid if you win, and either way, the money goes to a great nonprofit cause. To get your tickets, go to carbonraffle.org/RTL Go to xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla, and don’t forget to use the discount code Lightning for $100 off your purchase. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 489: Tesla’s More Affordable Car: Sorting Through the Rumors Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2024-12-15 | Rumors have been going around about Tesla’s upcoming more-affordable car, and I’m here to help separate the facts from the fiction. Plus: Tesla’s charging standard will become the federal standard, the Cybercab project lead shares a few more details about Tesla’s upcoming driverless robotaxi, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! FOR FIRST-TIME TESLA BUYERS: The referral program is back and it's the best one in a while! You can get $1000 off of your Model 3 or Model Y purchase (or $2000 off of Cybertruck, Model S, or Model X) by ordering through my referral link. Clicking this will take you to the Tesla website where you can order with the discount applied: https://ts.la/ryan73014 And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. NEW: Win the custom-configured Tesla of your dreams in the 9th annual Climate XChange raffle! The taxes are paid if you win, and either way, the money goes to a great nonprofit cause. To get your tickets, go to carbonraffle.org/RTL Go to xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla, and don’t forget to use the discount code Lightning for $100 off your purchase. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 488: Tesla Holiday Software Update Adds Huge New Features Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2024-12-08 | Tesla’s annual holiday software update is jam-packed with fantastic new features. Plus: the rollout of FSD version 13 has begun, Tesla CEO Elon Musk has been denied his compensation package by a Delaware judge once again, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! FOR FIRST-TIME TESLA BUYERS: The referral program is back and it's the best one in a while! You can get $1000 off of your Model 3 or Model Y purchase (or $2000 off of Cybertruck, Model S, or Model X) by ordering through my referral link. Clicking this will take you to the Tesla website where you can order with the discount applied: https://ts.la/ryan73014 And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. NEW: Win the custom-configured Tesla of your dreams in the 9th annual Climate XChange raffle! The taxes are paid if you win, and either way, the money goes to a great nonprofit cause. To get your tickets, go to carbonraffle.org/RTL Go to xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla, and don’t forget to use the discount code Lightning for $100 off your purchase. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 487: Special Guest: Tesla’s Former Referral Program Director Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2024-12-01 | I sit down for a lengthy conversation with Taylor Robinette, who used to run the customer referral program at Tesla. We discuss the various iterations of the program over the years, what it’s like going from a Tesla fan to a Tesla employee, and much more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! FOR FIRST-TIME TESLA BUYERS: The referral program is back and it's the best one in a while! You can get $500 off of your Model 3 or Model Y purchase (or $1000 off of Cybertruck, Model S, or Model X) by ordering through my referral link. Clicking this will take you to the Tesla website where you can order with the discount applied: https://ts.la/ryan73014 And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. Go to xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla, and don’t forget to use the discount code “Lightning” (without the quotes) for $100 off your purchase. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 486: More High-Passenger Teslas in the Works Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2024-11-24 | Tesla looks like they’re planning multiple high-passenger vehicles, a popular upgrade option returns on the new Model 3, Tesla sweetens the deal for customers taking delivery in the stretch run of 2024, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! FOR FIRST-TIME TESLA BUYERS: The referral program is back and it's the best one in a while! You can get $500 off of your Model 3 or Model Y purchase (or $1000 off of Cybertruck, Model S, or Model X) by ordering through my referral link. Clicking this will take you to the Tesla website where you can order with the discount applied: https://ts.la/ryan73014 And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. NEW: Win the custom-configured Tesla of your dreams in the 9th annual Climate XChange raffle! The taxes are paid if you win, and either way, the money goes to a great nonprofit cause. To get your tickets, go to carbonraffle.org/RTL Go to xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla, and don’t forget to use the discount code Lightning for $100 off your purchase. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 485: Insane 500kW Supercharging on the Way for Cybertruck! Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2024-11-17 | Tesla announced version 4 Supercharging cabinets that will allow Cybertrucks to supercharge at double the peak rate of the rest of the Tesla fleet. Plus: Cybertruck’s lead engineer is honored by TIME Magazine, NHTSA has a beef with Tesla over the company’s social media posts, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! FOR FIRST-TIME TESLA BUYERS: The referral program is back and it's the best one in a while! You can get $500 off of your Model 3 or Model Y purchase (or $1000 off of Cybertruck, Model S, or Model X) by ordering through my referral link. Clicking this will take you to the Tesla website where you can order with the discount applied: https://ts.la/ryan73014 And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. NEW: Win the custom-configured Tesla of your dreams in the 9th annual Climate XChange raffle! The taxes are paid if you win, and either way, the money goes to a great nonprofit cause. To get your tickets, go to carbonraffle.org/RTL Go to xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla, and don’t forget to use the discount code “Lightning” (without the quotes) for $100 off your purchase. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!). P.P.S. Per my note at the top of the show, if you'd like to help listener Gregg whose family (and his neighbors) lost everything in the recent Mountain Fire, go to oldcoachfam.com
Episode 484: Teslas Are (Still) the Most American-Made Cars Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2024-11-10 | A new report confirms that two Teslas are the most American-made in the market. Plus: Unplugged Performance reveals a Model S Plaid police cruiser, European base Model 3’s might soon get a battery pack upgrade, Tesla is planning yet another massive Supercharging station in California, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! FOR FIRST-TIME TESLA BUYERS: The referral program is back and it's the best one in a while! You can get $500 off of your Model 3 or Model Y purchase (or $1000 off of Cybertruck, Model S, or Model X) by ordering through my referral link. Clicking this will take you to the Tesla website where you can order with the discount applied: https://ts.la/ryan73014 And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. Go to xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla, and don’t forget to use the discount code “Lightning” (without the quotes) for $100 off your purchase. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 483: Tesla’s FSD Roadmap Gives a Lot to Be Excited About Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2024-11-03 | Tesla’s newest AI roadmap gives FSD owners a lot to look forward to before the end of the year. Plus: a latent feature of some Teslas might soon awaken, Tesla looks to standardize electrical connectors in the industry, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! FOR FIRST-TIME TESLA BUYERS: The referral program is back and it's the best one in a while! You can get $500 off of your Model 3 or Model Y purchase (or $1000 off of Cybertruck, Model S, or Model X) by ordering through my referral link. Clicking this will take you to the Tesla website where you can order with the discount applied: https://ts.la/ryan73014 And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. Go to xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla, and don’t forget to use the discount code “Lightning” (without the quotes) for $100 off your purchase. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
Episode 482: Tesla Q3 Earnings Call Analysis and Recap Ride the Lightning Tesla Motors Unofficial Podcast 2024-10-27 | Tesla held its quarterly earnings call, where we heard about the Model 2.5 (aka the $25k car), the Robotaxi, the next-gen Roadster, and the Tesla Semi. As always I’ve got expert analysis, highlight clips from Elon Musk and the Tesla executive team, and more! If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support my efforts, please check out my Patreon at patreon.com/teslapodcast and consider a monthly pledge. Every little bit helps and there are stacking bonuses in it for you at each pledge level, like early access to each episode at the $5 tier and the weekly Lightning Round bonus mini-episode (AND the early access!) at the $10 tier! And NO ADS at every tier! NEW: The referral program is back and it's the best one in a while! You can get $500 off of your Model 3 or Model Y purchase (or $1000 off of Cybertruck, Model S, or Model X) by ordering through my referral link. Clicking this will take you to the Tesla website where you can order with the discount applied: https://ts.la/ryan73014 And don't forget to leave a message on the Ride the Lightning hotline anytime with a question, comment, or discussion topic for next week's show! The toll-free number to call or Skype is 1-888-989-8752. Go to xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla, and don’t forget to use the discount code “Lightning” (without the quotes) for $100 off your purchase. P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at everyamp.com/RTL (don't forget the coupon code RTL too!).
