Overdrive
Overdrive is a weekly radio program covering cars, transport, and culture. It features motoring and transport news from Australia and around the world, road tests, interviews, and quirky stories. Hosted by David Brown, a respected motoring broadcaster heard across Australia on commercial, public, and community radio.
Episodes
EVs reshape market; Toyota pivots; a rally legend
Australia’s new vehicle market is changing rapidly, with Chinese brands and electrified models reshaping the sales charts while Toyota expands its electrified range.
David Brown and Paul Murrell examine the latest market data, discuss the future of hybrids and EVs, explore the world of exclusive hypercars, debate working from home and transport, review the Maserati Grecale Trofeo, preview the H
Brand identity, Route 66 at 100, are EVs too fast?
Short description
David Brown and Paul Murrell explore how carmakers balance shared engineering with distinctive brand identity, from Stellantis to Mercedes-Benz’s new retail approach. They discuss logistics, motoring journalism, iconic vehicle-inspired wine branding, the centenary of Route 66, and whether technology, design and culture still shape how we experience cars in an increasingly digital
Transport and schools, AI Traffic Data, Kia EV9
Short Description
David Brown and Brian Smith examine the growing number of automotive brands entering Australia and the challenges of building identity in a crowded market. They discuss how school planning can unintentionally create transport problems, reflect on Sydney’s transformation through projects such as Martin Place and George Street, explore how AI could reshape traffic management, and r
Ban Kerb Parking? EV Price Cuts, X-Trail, Triton
David Brown and Brian Smith examine the future of Kerb-side parking, arguing for better management rather than simplistic anti-car policies. They discuss Hyundai’s EV price cuts, the growing pressure from Chinese brands, whether sedans can challenge SUVs again, and concerns about EV repair access. The episode also reviews the Nissan X-Trail and Mitsubishi Triton, explores changing buyer behaviour
Parking Policy, Warranty Risks, Reinventing Buses
A wide-ranging edition of Overdrive examines how transport policy, motoring costs and changing consumer behaviour are reshaping Australian mobility. David Brown and Paul Murrell debate apartment parking mandates, shifting new-car pricing, church-based car sharing and whether high-speed buses could outperform costly rail projects. They also unpack the risks and realities of extended warranties, pol
Young Drivers training, EV trends, BMW i4, Jimny
Short Description
David Brown and Paul Murrell discuss a different approach to driver education, arguing that financial incentives can encourage safer, smoother driving habits.
They examine shifting EV sales trends, BMW’s electric success, the preservation of grand railway stations, and the changing language of luxury motoring at Rolls-Royce.
The program also explores Audi’s abandoned Procon-Ten
Driving Thrills, EV Mining Trucks, Vitara Hybrid
Driving Thrills, EV Mining Trucks, Vitara Hybrid
Short Description
David Brown and Paul Murrell explore whether driving enjoyment can be scientifically measured, examine the rapid electrification of heavy mining equipment, critique the design direction of new Ferrari and Mercedes-AMG EVs, and discuss AI-driven behaviour monitoring in cars and workplaces. The program concludes with a road test of t
AI cars, classic shooting brakes likened to Kia K4
Overdrive: AI cars, revived names and the Kia K4 shooting brake twist
AI cars, classic shooting brakes likened to Kia K4
Short Description
This episode explores how Chinese manufacturers are reshaping the car industry through AI, digital architecture and global strategy. There’s debate over heritage as Jaguar Land Rover revives Freelander, while GWM backs V8 power for markets like Australia. The
EV surge, transport rethink, return of the 2CV
Australia’s EV market is shifting rapidly, with Chinese brands now dominating sales and Korean makers strengthening their position through disciplined rollouts. David Brown and Paul Murrell examine how pricing, supply and consumer confidence are reshaping the industry, while also debating subsidies, public transport planning and the future of urban travel.
The program also revisits the reborn Citr
F1, reduced attention span, Jeep Wrangler Rubicon
Overdrive: F1 tech, attention drift and the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon
Mercedes starts the 2026 Formula One season with a one-two in Melbourne, prompting a broader discussion about race-car complexity, driver workload and visibility. David Brown and Paul Murrell also cover cars on screen, faster EV charging, a tiny classic car selling for big money, and whether shrinking attention spans are making ever
AI in cars, CES Innovations & the Soul of Driving
Overdrive: From Smart Crossings to Smarter Cars — AI, CES Innovations and the Soul of Driving
Short Summary
In this episode of Overdrive, David Brown and Paul Murrell explore how artificial intelligence is changing pedestrian safety, urban mobility, and vehicle technologies. From AI-powered pedestrian crossings in Ohio to inclusive transport innovations at CES 2026, they reflect on the evolving r
Fuel security, fast rail; living with a Deepal E07
Overdrive: Fuel security, fast rail reality and living with the Deepal E07
Fuel security, fast rail; living with a Deepal E07
Short description
David Brown and Paul Murrell cut through the headlines and hype, starting with fuel security risks as Middle East tensions unsettle oil markets and sharpen the case for electrification. They look at China’s rapid rise in Australia’s new-car market, revisi
NVES results, Local Car Testing, Unexpected MG Ute
Description
This week on Overdrive, David Brown and Paul Murrell unpack the first results from Australia’s New Vehicle Efficiency Standard and what they really mean for car makers and buyers. They examine winners, losers and the politics of emissions averaging. Subaru returns to frontline motorsport safety, JAC fine-tunes a plug-in hybrid ute at Lang Lang, and Leapmotor updates its EV over the air
Luxury Brands, Mini Anniversary, Kona Electric
Overdrive: Luxury badges, cheap fares, Bathurst Minis and Kona EV
David Brown and Paul Murrell look at BMW turning Alpina into its own luxury badge, Tesla shifting Full Self-Driving to subscription, and what Queensland's 50 cent fares really buy in patronage and politics. They celebrate Mini's Bathurst heritage, trace the story behind unique Porsche Spider artwork, and run a real-world road test
In-Car Audio, OTA Updates and Bad Traffic Data
This week on Overdrive, David Brown and Paul Murrell (SeniorDriver.au) dig into what’s changing inside cars and on our roads — from the future of in-car radio and voice control to over-the-air updates that add features after purchase. They also unpack NZ’s roadside drug testing rollout, sidewalk delivery robots, the rise of Chinese brands in the UK, a Louis Chevrolet history detour, and a major ex
Big Touchscreens Are Dangerous – Bring Back Buttons
A recent article in The Conversation on-line newsletter articles written by professional researchers titled “Yes, those big touchscreens in cars are dangerous and buttons are coming back” highlights a growing recognition that technology often moves faster than our ability to use it safely.
To add perspective, we’re replaying an interview recorded four years ago with Emeritus Professor Mike Regan,
Why We Must Rethink How We Design Cities - what do people actually need?
In this episode of Overdrive, host David Brown speaks with Ken Dobinson — a 95-year-old former transport leader with a career spanning government, consultancy, and groundbreaking urban planning.
With a sharp mind and an unwavering commitment to public value, Ken unpacks why our cities still miss the mark in serving communities, and how infrastructure decisions must go beyond spreadsheets and sil
Why Headlight Tech, Interface Design and EV Range Still Matter
In this episode of Overdrive, David Brown and Paul Murrell discuss the latest in headlight testing technology at Mercedes-Benz, the real-world usability of driver aids and infotainment systems, and the challenges of understanding electric vehicle range. Plus, a look at GWM’s new Tank 500 plug-in hybrid SUV and how China's automakers are reshaping the value equation in Australia’s large SUV market.
Toyota Prado; Xpeng enduro; classic car culture
News
XPeng P7 endurance run: A 3961km record sparks scepticism about real-world EV performance and battery stress.
Costco–Leapmotor partnership: Bulk-store marketing and discounts reflect new retail strategies in car sales.
Skoda colouring-in promotion: A quirky family campaign illustrates the odd directions of brand engagement.
Cherry’s Fortune 500 leap: Rising Chinese carmakers highlight global
Road charges, EV hype & Camry tested
• Road user charges: NSW confirms plans to introduce a distance-based road user charge
• EV range claims: Independent testing shows significant gaps between advertised and real-world EV ranges
• Zeekr 7X launch: Chinese brand Zeekr announces its 7X SUV for Australia, promising fast charging and plush interiors
• Ercole Spada tribute: Celebrated designer Ercole Spada is remembered for shaping ic
Chinese Cars Rise, Tesla Liability, Leapmotor C10
Car sales: July Australian new car sales rose 2.9%, with Chinese brands climbing
Tesla case: A US jury held Tesla partly liable for a fatal crash
Idle Off program: Student-led action cut engine idling outside schools by up to 40%
Mercedes program: Manufaktur Exclusive lets buyers pay over $24,000 for paint
Foton Tunland ute: Chinese brand Foton launches a hybrid dual-cab ute
Ross Rowland: US r
From jargon busting to giant utes: EV debuts, SUV culture & Toyota Tundra road test
In this episode of Overdrive, David Brown and Brian Smith dive into the quirks, jargon, and big personalities of the motoring and transport world.
We start with a NSW Government report on Sydenham Station’s upgrades—dense with transport-speak but easily translated into plain English. From there, it’s off to Sydney’s first-ever Light Commercial Vehicle Show, where vans, utes, and even cargo bikes
Touchscreens, Utes & EV Slowdown: Transport Trends on Overdrive – 26 July 2025
Welcome to Overdrive, the show that dives into the quirks, questions, and cultural shifts shaping how we move. Host David Brown is joined by Brian Smith, transport planner and original Overdrive contributor, for a jam-packed episode that blends industry news, thoughtful critique, and cheeky observations.
🎙️ This Week on Overdrive:
📊 1. J.D. Power’s 2025 Vehicle Quality Study – More Tech, More Tr
OverDrive: Triton Road Test, EV Fire Myths, AI Cars, E-Scooter Ban & The Legend of Bizzarrini
Overdrive – Cars, Transport & Culture
Originally broadcast: 14 June 2025
Host: David Brown | Guest: Paul Murrell (SeniorDriverAus.com)
In this episode of Overdrive, we explore the intersection of technology, culture, and controversy in the transport world. From electric vehicle supply chains to self-driving cars and tragic consequences of urban mobility experiments, we cover it all. The show blen
OverDrive – EV Growth, Hyundai IONIQ 9, Alfa Junior, Driver AI, Santa Fe
• Hyundai IONIQ 9 Launch: Hyundai debuts its new IONIQ 9 electric SUV, positioning it as a premium, spacious, tech-rich executive vehicle.
• Alfa Romeo Junior: Alfa Romeo’s new compact SUV, the Junior, brings hybrid and electric options to Australia
• HERE-SBD EV Infrastructure Report: A report shows uneven progress in EV charging across global regions
• EV Market Trends in Australia: EV sales in
Overdrive: EV sales up, New radar tech, Haval GT PHEV road test, e-scooters/bikes for the disabled
• Australian auto sales rose in June, but year-to-date totals remain down, with plug-in and hybrid growth outpacing traditional segments.
• Chinese carmakers surge in the UK, disrupting the market with value-packed electric offerings as legacy brands falter.
• China’s EV sector faces major consolidation, with only 15 brands expected to survive intense competition by 2030.
• Oxford RF’s radar tech
OverDrive: Mahindra’s little SUV; New emissions laws; tyre reuse; AM radio might be compulsory in US
1. NVES Launch: Australia’s New Vehicle Efficiency Standard begins
2. FCAI Response: The FCAI focuses too narrowly on EVs, ignoring affordable, efficient petrol and hybrid options.
3. Tyre Recycling Report: highlighting a gap between recovery and sustainability.
4. European SDV Initiative: Eleven major EU companies form an open-source alliance to speed up software-defined vehicle development.
5.
Overdrive: Dodgy Road Safety Stats; Jaecoo J7; New Chinese Batteries; Plug-In Ute goes off-road
China’s Sodium-Ion Scooter Revolution
Summary:
China is rapidly adopting sodium-ion batteries in its electric scooter market, led by companies like Yadea. These cheaper and safer alternatives to lithium are ideal for short-range urban transport and could eventually disrupt global battery supply chains.
________________________________________
Toyota Bets Big on Logistics Tech
Summary:
Toyota is pr
Overdrive: Tesla’s Turbulence, New RAV4 and Forester Revealed, and a Land Speed Legacy
Overdrive: Tesla Backlash, Smarter Road Safety, and a Fresh Crop of SUVs
This week on Overdrive, the show where cars and transport meet culture, David Brown and Paul Murrell cover a wide sweep of industry news, innovation, and history.
Real-Time Safety Data
A new agreement between Euro NCAP and the Data for Road Safety (DFRS) platform aims to improve road safety by encouraging carmakers to share
Overdrive: RIP Kwik Fit founder, EVs, Hydrogen Trucks, and costly repairs for Tesla Cybertruck
Overdrive: From Kwik Fit to Cybertruck Fix – The Shifting World of Cars and Transport
In this episode of Overdrive, we dive into the evolving world of vehicles, transport systems, and the culture that surrounds them. From industry pioneers to futuristic machines, David Brown and Paul Morrell cover it all with insight and wit.
🎧 Full Episode Includes:
🔧 Farewell to Tom Farmer
We remember Sir Tom Fa
Liz Ampt and Prof David Hensher on Behaviour change
Podcast: Behaviour Change in Transport – Conversations with Liz Ampt and Professor David Hensher
Hosted by David Brown
In this two-part episode, we explore the critical but often overlooked question in transport planning: not just what people do, but why they do it. Our guests, Dr Liz Ampt and Professor David Hensher, have each made major contributions to understanding behaviour change and its r
Overdrive: Emissions, Safety, Electric Dreams – and the Disappearing Expertise
In this episode of Overdrive – Cars, Transport, Culture, David Brown is joined once again by motoring expert Paul Murrell from SeniorDriverAus.com to unpack the latest developments from the world of transport and automotive innovation.
News Highlights:
Autonomous Vehicle Emissions – An MIT study warns that the computing power required for self-driving cars could one day rival the energy consumpt
Overdrive: Tesla’s Troubles, Touchscreen Turmoil, and the Curious Case of Royal Warrants
Overdrive: Tesla’s Troubles, Touchscreen Backlash & Royal Recognition
In this episode of Overdrive, David Brown and Paul Murrell unpack a mix of major shifts and motoring curiosities. From plummeting Tesla sales and BYD’s meteoric rise, to Australia's evolving road rules and the debate over touchscreens in modern vehicles—this week covers the latest in transport, design, planning, and culture.
⚡
Time to Lead on Work-from-Home Policies, Not Follow
Is the recent strident opposition to working from home driven by real performance data — or by outdated management egos?
As some organisations begin to reverse their confrontational stance on remote work, the question remains: should we sit back and see what happens, or step up and lead by prioritising staff well-being and evidence-based policy?
In this second interview, Professor David Hensher
Overdrive: What lidar can’t see; Breakdown rates for ICEs and EVs;Measuring car sustainability
Summary:
In this episode of Overdrive, we delve into the evolving world of motoring and mobility—from high-tech pedestrian detection fabrics to nostalgic reflections on motoring larrikins. David Brown and Paul Murrell critique inconsistencies in safety tech, vehicle naming confusion, and the charm of classic cars. We also road test the Mazda CX-30 and examine whether EVs are truly delivering on su
Overdrive: What Lidar can’t see; Breakdowns - ICEs vs EVs; Mazda CX-30; Larrikins in motorsport
MG Response
A listener wondered if his car had been upgraded with the latest software when he found the very performance disappointing. The response from MG is as follows
The background to car badges
If ever we needed proof that all is not always as it seems, the Porsche badge is a perfect example.
While it looks like it’s been around forever, that’s far from the case.
Porsche is, of course, n
Overdrive: Everything Electric in transport preview; Genesis GV80; don’t get caught short on a trip
G’Day and welcome to Overdrive, a program that practices what it preaches, most of the time, on the subject of cars and transport.
I’m David Brown
For more information go to our website, podcast, or social media – just search for Cars, Transport, Culture.
Once again, I am joined by the tireless Paul Murrell from seniordriveraus.com
Recalls in America covering some 35 million vehicles
First-eve
Overdrive: Elon Musk was wrong; Cybertruck under fire; Genesis GV70; Cupholders; Reverse Parking
G’Day and welcome to Overdrive, a program that ponders the philosophical and practical aspects of motoring and transport.
I’m David Brown
For more information go to our website, podcast, or social media – just search for Cars, Transport, Culture.
Once again, I am joined by the effervescent Paul Murrell from seniordriveraus.com
A few quick stories
Toyota Discontinues Granvia People Mover in
Overdrive: Superbowl 2025 car ads; Genesis G70; Insuring EVs; Cars that don’t meet new design rules
In the Program
• The real costs of car insurance – EV vs PHEV vs ICE
• Beware of new cars about to be delisted due to ADR (Australian Design Rules)
• Elon Musk Admits He Was Wrong
• Problems with the MG Hybrid
• We review the car ads that were played in the Superbowl
• Road Test of the Genesis G70 – is it the modern equivalent of an old Jag?
Contacts Details
Web Site: Driven Media: drivenmedia
Overdrive: Motor and Masterpieces Show; Lagonda love affair; Hyundai Ioniq N; Jeep Rubicon
G’Day and Welcome to Overdrive, a program that ponders the particulars of motoring and transport.
I’m David Brown
If you want to dive deeper into our thoughts, ideas, and occasional ramblings, you can find us on our website, podcast, or social media – just search for Cars, Transport, Culture.
Once again, I am joined by the ever-enthusiastic Paul Murrell from seniordriverauz.com
Subjects
Thi
Overdrive: The full cost of road tolls to you and me; GWM Tank 500 Hybrid; Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
Welcome to Overdrive, a program that ponders on the issues of motoring and transport
If you want to dive deeper into our thoughts, ideas, and occasional ramblings, you can find us on our website, podcast, or social media – just search for Cars, Transport, Culture.
Once again, I am joined by Paul Murrell from seniordriverauz.com
Subjects
• When something goes wrong with your car don’t tell the
Overdrive: Deepal S07 launch; Good, bad and ugly signage on race cars; McLaren’s $560,000 watch
Welcome to Overdrive, a program that probes deeply into the issues of motoring and transport
I am joined by Paul Murrell
If you want to dive deeper into our thoughts, ideas, and occasional ramblings, you can find us on our website, podcast, or social media – just search for Cars, Transport, Culture.
Subjects
• McLaren Automotive’s newly announced $3.9 million W1 hypercar comes with an option
Overdrive: Will Tesla go the way of Tupperware?; Pirelli Calendar; Japan’s Kei Cars; Suzuki Swift
Hello and welcome to Overdrive, a program where we explore the world of motoring and transport.
I’m David Brown
If you want to dive deeper into our thoughts, ideas, and occasional ramblings, you can find us on our website, podcast, or social media – just search for Cars, Transport, Culture.
Subjects
· The Rise and Legacy of the Iconic Pirelli Calendar
· Vintage Trains and Sydney's Hidden
Overdrive: New Polestar 3; 5 Door Suzuki Jimny; Chinese EV invasion; Two rally stars road to the top
Hello and welcome to Overdrive, a program where we wander through the world of motoring and transport.
I’m David Brown
If you want to dive deeper into our thoughts, ideas, and occasional ramblings, you can find us on our website, podcast, or social media – just search for Cars, Transport, Culture.
Subjects
• The new Polestar 3 – an accomplished SUV but at a price (01:04)
• Some of the Chinese b
Overdrive: SatNav with directions and local insights; Mazda MX-5 Ragtop; Brisbane’s Light Trams
Welcome to Overdrive, where we cover everything to do with motoring and transport from the sublime to the ridiculous.
I’m David Brown
More of our thoughts, ideas and ramblings are covered on our website, podcast or social media – just search for Cars transport culture
Paul Murrell is away traveling, so this program we have three quite different interviews.
First up, we’ll be talking with Winst
The Impact of Hybrid Work on Transport and Urban Planning: Insights from Professor David Hensher
The podcast episode explores the impact of remote work on transportation, featuring insights from Professor David Hensher of the University of Sydney.
Hensher emphasises that the hybrid work model, typically involving two to three days in the office, has led to reduced peak traffic, shifting some congestion to off-peak times. This shift, in turn, optimises infrastructure usage and supports broad
Overdrive: Ioniq5 N - Modern classic for a new age: Swallow Doretti; Ford Edsel; Nissan Pathfinder
Welcome to Overdrive, a program about the wonderful world of motoring and transport.
I’m David Brown
More of our thoughts, ideas and ramblings are covered on our website, podcast or social media – just search for Cars transport culture
And once again I am joined by Paul Murrell from seniordriverauz.com
Subjects
Edsel
• What was the context of Brooklyn poet Marianne Moore suggesting car
Overdrive: Smart Car tries again; Mazda MX-5 fourth generation – keeping the image alive
I’m David Brown
And once again I am joined by the well-travelled Mr Paul Murrell from seniordriverauz.com
More of our thoughts, ideas and ramblings are covered on our website, podcast or social media – just search for Cars transport culture
Subjects
• Smart Car makes a comeback in Australia, started as a very clear expression of your personality. (1:21)
• Mazda MX5 – Old style image of drivi
Overdrive: Renault – history and the new Arkana SUV, Shannon Classic; Will EVs ever be classics?
G’Day and welcome to Overdrive, a program that relishes all sorts of information and experiences in the world of motoring and transport and its relationship to our culture
I’m David Brown
And once again I am joined by the intellectual Mr Paul Murrell
More of our thoughts, ideas and ramblings are covered on our website, podcast or social media – just search for Cars transport culture
Subjects
Overdrive: Citroen quits Aus; Toyota MR2 & Celica back with big power; Do future generations count?
G’Day and welcome to Overdrive, where we embrace the glories of motoring and transport.
I’m David Brown
And we are joined by the studious Paul Murrell from Seniordriveraus.com
More of our thoughts, ideas and ramblings are covered on our website, podcast or social media – just search for Cars Transport Culture
In this program (timings in mm:ss)
• The Demise of Citroen in Australia (00:45)
• To
Overdrive: Banning e-scooters; Software designed vehicles (SDV). Peugeot 408 PHEV; Working From Home
G’Day and welcome to Overdrive, a program that roams through the world of motoring and transport
More of our thoughts, ideas and ramblings are covered on our website, podcast or social media – just search for Cars Transport Culture
I’m David Brown
And I am joined by the erudite Paul Murrell from Seniordriveraus.com
In this program (timings in mm:ss)
News Stories
• Melbourne City Council ban
Overdrive: Why AI will misunderstand car sales figures; Mazda BT-50; Goggomobils; Shannon Classic
In this program
1. Car Sales
• Problems with poor data – the curse of Artificial Intelligence (1:06)
2. Second hand car prices (10:44)
• What’s happening in an unstable environment
3. Interview with Terry Thompson – President of the Council of Car clubs (16:31)
• the upcoming 25th August Shannons Classic
• 1500 classic cars on display at Sydney Motorsport park
• Includes a story of a car club
Overdrive: Teaching learners to be courteous; Sustainable transport priorities; A hot Fiat 500 EV
In this program
• Should we teach young learner drivers to be courtesy
• Priorities for Sustainable transport
• Road test of the Abarth EV
• Feedback
• Car Names as Acronyms
• Karmann Ghia
• Songs for autonomous/electric/Classic vehicles
• Autonomous cars – what happens if two crash – is there a programmed road rage function
Web Site: Driven Media: drivenmedia.com.au
Podcasts
iTunes: Cars T
Overdrive: Getting really useful vehicle data; Songs that reflect car enthusiasts; Chev V8 Lotus
In this program
• Joke of the week – country and western songs that could relate to classic car ownership
• Social Media
• Feedback on the Nash/Austin post
• Feedback on the Lotus (with Chev V8) post
• Reference to the video on the Vauxhall we posted
• Road test on the Patrol (non the warrior)
• Helpful Hint - Don’t leave your medication at home
• Interview with the guy from Directed Technolog
Overdrive: Weird and wonderful gear stick knobs (are they legal?); Subaru BRZ (manual); Peugeot 2008
Program
Listeners joke
An extended discussion on the feedback from our story on unusual gear stick knobs
• A gear knob as an element of sculpture
• Aussie gear stick knobs
• Extreme examples including from a taxi in Fiji
• Did you know it is illegal to not have the gear selection pattern on your gear knob
• What should a car tell you other than the gear selection pattern
Road tests
• Subaru B
Overdrive: Old motoring fads; Subaru Solterra EV; Mitsubishi ASX old design but simple; BMW Isetta
In this program:
News stories
• Fisker bankruptcy: SUVs for $3700 each – report (0:45)
• Holden’s Hero Torana to be resurrected at a price (3:15)
• Private e-scooters to get legal green light (8:06)
• Learners falsifying logbooks in significant numbers, survey reveals (11:27)
Unintended consequences
• High Occupancy Vehicle lanes – fudging the number of occupants (15:55)
Feedback – comments fro
Overdrive: Past quirky motoring trends; Nissan Qashqai e-Power; Bill Bryson on the road Downunder
In this program:
Interviews
• Car sales figures for the first half of the year especially electric vehicles
• Road test the Nissan Qashqai – hybrid – it’s a bit different
• Clear up some of the frustrations we had with the Great Wall Motors Tank 500
• Discuss some of the crazy trends we have seen in motoring
• Comment on some of some great quotes about motoring and travel from the Bill Bryson bo
Overdrive: Study says loud cars indicate psychopaths; Fiat 500 EV; Paris Olympics transport scheme
G’Day and welcome to Overdrive a program that bounces through the world of cars and transport
In this program:
Listener feedback on
• Unexpected consequences of transport projects. Paris is implementing high occupancy lanes – good idea but some experience in Sydney would be helpful to consider
• Oil leaks in Morris minors
• A unique clock with the face like an old-style Jaguar dial
Interviews
Overdrive: Nissan Patrol Warrior - Tough luxury Aussie SUV; Genesis GV70; Noisy Wipers; Mini vs SUV
In this program:
• Taking a long time to overtake: The Cruise Control Creep
• Noise from windscreen wipers
• Original Mini versus modern SUVs – Listeners play homage to Monty Python
• Road test – Patrol Warrior
• Road test of Genesis GV70 – 3.5 T
Web Site: Driven Media: drivenmedia.com.au
Podcasts
iTunes: Cars Transport Culture
Spotify: Cars Transport Culture
Or our social pages
Facebook
Car
Overdrive: Past car ads - the good, bad and ugly; Hyundai Kona EV; Misleading hybrid sale figures
Overdrive: Past car ads - the good, bad and ugly; Hyundai Kona EV; Misleading hybrid sale figures
1. Joke from a listener
2. An engineer turned comedian gives an example of the poor use of statistics
3. Why two-wheel-drive utes sell in small numbers
4. We review a historic film of road construction. How has the presentation of transport projects changed
5. A review of some specific aspects of
Overdrive: Young person in a new car; Nissan Navara 4X Pro; Technologies & Innovations in Transport
G’Day and welcome to Overdrive a cars and transport program where you don’t have to be a rev head to enjoy it.
In this program we look at
• Some reflections on why switches are better than touch screens and great headlines on car ads
• A young person tries a new car
• Road Test of the Nissan Navara 4X Pro
• Some things from the Australian Institute of Traffic Planning and Management’s panel ses
Overdrive: Autonomous cars by 2026; Alfa Tonale; US China EV tax; Will cheap Public Transport work?
G’Day and welcome to Overdrive a program that looks at cars and transport from a variety of angles.
In this program we look at
• Queensland has made Public Transport trips 50c but not zero. Is it a good idea
• New road safety ad from South Aust Police – will it do any good
• Self-driving vehicles expected on UK roads by 2026 following new legislation
• America’s heavy tax on Chinese EVs and C
Overdrive: EV range problem; Clarkson UK’s sexiest man? Creating car names; Mitsubishi Pajero Sport
G’Day and welcome to Overdrive a program that looks at all forms of transport from the humble bike through to a rocket powered spaceship.
In this program we look at
• An adventure in an electric vehicle that did not deliver the range it promised
• The government’s approach to the increasing road toll
• There’s a motoring link to a survey of the sexiest man in Britain – prepare for a shock
• C
Overdrive: GWM Tank 500; Are manual gearboxes doomed? Toyota’s MX-5 competitor; Porsche 911 history
G’Day and welcome to Overdrive a program that looks at the different ways we get around, from walking, riding, or in cars, buses, trains or planes and their impact on our culture
In the program Paul Murrell and I discuss
• Toyota considering an alternative to the Mazda MX-5
• Is the manual gearbox doomed?
• Converting classic cars to electric power
• 60 years of the Porsche 911
• Volvo launc
Overdrive: Tesla cuts back EV chargers; Hyundai i30N; Hispano Suiza history; Fleet management data
G’day and welcome to Overdrive, a program where we look at the wide and wonderful world of motoring and transport and its impact on culture
I’m David Brown
In the program Paul Murrell and I discuss
1. Tesla downsizing its effort on electric vehicle chargers
2. Euro car designers jumping ship to Chinese companies.
3. More Collective nouns
• “a Protrusion of Bristols”
4. Road Test of the Hyund
Overdrive: New road rules - who knows?; Great train to Broken Hill; Subaru BRZ; Car Collective nouns
G’Day and welcome to Overdrive, a program about all sorts of things to do with motoring and transport and its impact on our culture
I’m David Brown
In the program Paul Murrell and I hold forth on
Ambassadors
• Following on from last week, some comments from our young intern regarding the interview we did last week on car brand ambassadors
Collective nouns
• We know about collective nouns su
Overdrive: Do car brand ambassadors help sell cars?; MG’s Cyberster – EV convertible; Subaru Impreza
G’Day and welcome to Overdrive, a program that investigates matters to do with motoring and transport and their impact on our culture
I’m David Brown
In the program Paul Murrell from seniordriveraus.com and I pontificate on
• Are brand ambassadors worth the effort
• Bicycle Day
• Road test the Subaru Impreza
• MG’s Cyberster – EV convertible
For extended version of the program go to
Web S
Overdrive: New JAC ute; Less successful sports cars; Is the Honda S600 collectable; Nissan X-Trail
G’Day and welcome to Overdrive, where we take a populous approach to issues about cars and transport.
I’m David Brown
In the program Paul Murrell from seniordriveraus.com and I deliberate on
• Car sales so far this year - Is it a correction or huge on-going trend
• There’s a new ute on the Australian market and we don’t mean the KIA
• Geographic boundaries and naming your car
• Our young inter
Overdrive: Kia EV9 vs Audi e-tron; Classic car room feature; Mazda CX3; Do classic cars pollute much
G’Day and welcome to Overdrive, where we experiment with ideas and activities to do with cars and transport and their impact on our culture.
I’m David Brown
In the program we are joined by motoring journalist Paul Murrell to ruminate on
1. The gentleman who renovated his house so that he can keep his HQ Holden Monaro in the lounge room
2. The Mazda CX-3 and the image of Mazda that has made it
Overdrive: Revolutionary car design – Marcello Gandini – Lamborghini Miura; Kia EV9 costly but great
G’Day and welcome to Overdrive a program that samples as much as it can of the experiences of cars and transport
I’m David Brown
Social Media Feedback
• There has been a suggestion that we do away with the yellow phase in traffic lights altogether – is this a constructive revolution or destructive recklessness
Road Test
• We road test a large Kia electric vehicle – the EV9
Marcello Gandini –
Overdrive: A young person reviews Nissan Juke; Aust Efficiency Standards; Embarrassing school trips
G’Day and welcome to Overdrive a program that samples as much as it can of the pleasures of cars and transport
I’m David Brown
Feedback from social media posts
• The most verbose press release of the year so far – The Kia K4
Are young people still embarrassed by the car that they are driven to school in?
• Is it the car or the parents?
• For my son there were only a few cars that I could dr
Overdrive: Hyundai EV is Car of Year; GWH Ora resembles Mr Potato Head; Phillip Island History races
G’Day and welcome to Overdrive, where we mull over issues to do with cars and transport.
I’m David Brown
Feedback from social media posts
• Car of the year
• An art installation that has a rock crushing a Tesla
Road Test - Great Wall Motors Ora
• Electric car
• Comment from one of our Interns - a young persons perspective
• Comments from Dean
Phillip Island Classic
• Chat to Fred about th
Overdrive: Driver behaviour at traffic lights; Chevy Impala; 1948 Wolseley TV star; Chevy Silverado
G’Day and welcome to Overdrive a program that samples as much as it can of the delight of cars and transport
I’m David Brown
Interview
Recently there was an article in a major media outlet on whether the amount of yellow light time at traffic lights is enough.
The article had some one-dimensional comments so we thought we would here from an export and in doing so raised issues of real behaviou
Overdrive: Kia Picanto and Chevrolet Silverado - Sublime to the ridiculous but which is which?
G’Day and welcome to Overdrive a program that samples as much as it can of the delights of cars and transport
I’m David Brown
This week we go from the very small to the very large – is it the sublime to the ridiculous –and if so which is which. It all depends on your approach
Road test
A road test of the smallest mainstream car in our market the Kia Picanto
Interviews
And in the middle of
Overdrive: To Bathurst for V8 Supercars, Chat to Ford Electric Supervan race driver and Thrifty VP
G’day and welcome to overdrive a radio and podcast program that tests cars and the locations who can drive them to
I’m David Brown
This week we reflect on our road trip to Bathurst
Road test
A road test of the Mazda 3
Interview
And when we get their we look at a bit of history then attend the first round of the V8 super car series.
Taking the opportunity to interview with the Vice President
Overdrive: Mazda 2 – Long live urban focused, small sedans; Effective pedestrian & cycling education
G’Day and welcome to Overdrive, a program that seeks simplicity amongst the complexities when talking about cars and transport.
I’m David Brown
Road test
Mazda 2 – a quite small sedan – look at some history of when nippy little sedans were trendy. There practicality should not be lost.
Interview
We talk to an expert in bicycle and pedestrian planning on being engage with the real problems.
Overdrive: Hyundai Kona N-line: Edited version of comments on Superbowl car ads
G’Day and welcome to Overdrive a program that samples as much as it can of the pleasure of cars and transport
I’m David Brown
Road test
Hyundai Kona N-Line – performance in a small SUV
Interview
To get a 30 second spot during the Superbowl telecast cost the equivalent of AUD $10 million. Brian Smith and I run a critical eye over those car ads that tried their hand in this outrageously expens
Overdrive: Mazda CX-90 a lounge on wheels; Why do birds crap on newly washed cars?
G’Day and welcome to Overdrive a program that samples as much as it can of the thrill of cars and transport
I’m David Brown
Road test
Mazda CX-90 – replacing the CX9 – it is more of a lounge car than an express
Interview
At our home station here for Overdrive, the most popular programme is the breakfast show presented by Bruce Potter. He's very kindly gives a preview the day before each Over
Overdrive: Jaguar F-Type at a picnic; “Educating” truck drivers, do companies really needs to listen
G’Day and welcome to Overdrive, a program about cars and transport and its impact of our culture
I’m David Brown
Road test
We take a different look at the Jaguar F-Type. This time we take it to a park with some sculpture and get a true link between cars and culture
Interview
The National Heavy Vehicle Regulator put out a press release about a truck driver fatigue road safety program they have
A critical review of the Superbowl car ads 2024 –Forgiveness, sentimentality and bogans
The Super Bowl is big, like many things in American. But America is yet to fully learn that big is not necessarily beautiful. Ads in the Super Bowl this year, 2024, costs the equivalent of about AUD $10 million for just a 30 second spot and that does not include the cost of producing them in the first place.
Car companies have ventured into this hallowed advertising territory, but this year only f
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