PODCASTS

Episode 299 with Craig Lieberman – Under the Hood

November 2, 2023

In the latest episode of the Electrify Podcast, hosts Jarod DeAnda and Matt Teske are joined by special guest Craig Lieberman, who offers unique insights into the world of electric vehicles (EVs) and the evolving automotive landscape. Craig Lieberman, renowned for his advisory role in the Fast and Furious film franchise, brings a distinctive perspective to the discussion, making this episode a must-listen for car enthusiasts and EV skeptics alike.

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EVs bust charging myths with fast, convenient options.
Automakers adopt Tesla tech for EVs’ battery and software prowess.
New generations drive change in EV culture and design.

Fast and Furious: A Driving Force in Car Culture

Craig Lieberman’s storied career is deeply intertwined with the Fast and Furious movies, which have left an indelible mark on car culture. He played a pivotal role in selecting and curating the iconic vehicles featured in the film series. These movies not only entertained audiences but also served as an educational platform, allowing car enthusiasts like myself and Matt Teske to share the passion with a broader audience.

Craig Lieberman Transitions from Film to EVs

Craig Lieberman has transitioned from his Hollywood days to running a small agency specializing in Shopify work and digital services. His partnership with Chrome Cars in Germany, where they acquire movie cars and invite Craig to share his experiences at car shows, underscores the full circle journey he has embarked upon.

EVs: A Paradigm Shift in the Automotive Industry

The conversation takes an intriguing turn toward electric vehicles, with Craig expressing his reservations about them. He highlights a common stereotype associated with EV drivers, particularly those behind the wheel of a Toyota Prius. Craig humorously recounts his encounters with Prius drivers traveling well below the speed limit in the fast lane, contrasting their behavior with the instant acceleration and performance of a Tesla at stoplights.

Demographic Shift in EV Ownership

Matt dives into the changing patterns of who owns electric vehicles. He points out that when EVs like the Nissan Leaf first came out, they were mainly made for people who cared more about practicality than stylish looks. These cars were for folks who wanted to save on gas and get from A to B efficiently. But things are shifting now, with companies like Tesla leading the way. They’re making EVs that not only look great but are also super fun to drive. You’ve got EVs like the Porsche Taycan and Audi e-tron GT that are all about style and high performance, and they’re becoming more popular.

The Practical Realities of Electric Fuel

Matt also sheds light on the practical aspects of using electricity as a fuel for EVs. He compares the convenience of electric vehicle charging, particularly Level 7 chargers (referring to Chargeway power levels), to refueling at a gas station. The discussion highlights the swift charging times and the minimal impact on one’s daily routine.

However, the conversation also addresses the importance of proper charging infrastructure to avoid scenarios where limited charging stations create inconveniences for EV drivers. Matt emphasizes the need for influential figures in the EV industry to explain these practical aspects effectively to the public, dispelling misconceptions about long charging wait times.

The Beauty of EVs Under the Skin

Jarod, Matt and Craig get into the technological underpinnings of electric vehicles. They discuss the significance of automakers adopting Tesla’s charging connector type, the North American Charging Standard (NACS), acknowledging Tesla’s expertise in battery technology and software. While Tesla may have room for improvement in build quality, the core strengths lie in the battery and software aspects, making EVs shine under the skin.

The conversation draws parallels between EVs and remote control cars, emphasizing the importance of the vehicle’s body or shell while optimizing battery and motor technology. This approach can lead to the creation of more diverse and appealing EV models.

The Shift Towards Electric Lifestyle

The shift toward electric vehicles also involves a shift in lifestyle. Matt shares an anecdote about a Tesla owner’s experience, highlighting the convenience of home charging for those with access to a garage. The hosts stress the need for the automotive industry to recognize that marketing EVs and charging solutions should be tailored to different consumer lifestyles.

The discussion underscores the importance of addressing charging inconveniences for apartment-dwelling EV owners while emphasizing the convenience of home charging for others. Recognizing these lifestyle differences is crucial in promoting EV adoption.

The Shift in Automotive Culture

The podcast concludes on a forward-looking note, discussing the potential for EVs to incorporate distinctive sounds. Craig Lieberman, a self-proclaimed sensory enthusiast, emphasizes the importance of capturing the essence of EVs through sound design. He envisions a soundscape that conveys the unique characteristics of electric motors, combining low-frequency growls with higher-frequency tones that mirror the vehicle’s acceleration.

Electrify Podcast Episode 299 with Craig Lieberman delivers an engaging and candid conversation about the evolving world of electric vehicles. While EVs present exciting possibilities, challenges related to affordability, energy production, and sensory experiences still need to be addressed. The future of EVs promises a fusion of technology, aesthetics, and performance that will appeal to a new generation of automotive enthusiasts. Stay tuned for more electrifying discussions on the Electrify Podcast.