Ep 225: Chevy Equinox EV, History of American Motors,New Discontinued-Models List

Jill Ciminillo is back in studio this week, and recounted for Tom Appel her recent travels and product evaluations. Tom went on to share what he has learned from a series of brief conversations with Amazon delivery drivers who have spent time with the Rivian EDV electric van; the feedback is interesting.
Still in the first segment, the hosts discussed Jeep’s recently announced $25,000 electric vehicle. To be called Renegade, the subcompact electric crossover is due to arrive for the 2027 model year. Jill then shared her impressions of the all-new Chevrolet Equinox EV compact electric crossover. Jill’s take is mostly positive, though she has serious concerns regarding connectivity. Listen in to hear Jill discuss her issues. The Equinox EV starts at less than $30,000 once the federal tax credit is applied.
In the second segment Jill and Tom welcome Joe Ligo, producer of The last Independent Automaker, a documentary about carmaker American Motors. Joe walked the hosts through the formation and early days of American Motors, as well as the maker’s decision to produce its lineup of Eagle AWD vehicles. Listen in for details regarding the documentary’s release day.
In the last segment Jill is subjected to Tom’s “Under $60,000?” quiz, featuring a bonus question about the Jackson Five. The hosts then quickly shared a list of a dozen cars that will soon be discontinued.
Jill is a syndicated automotive writer, currently serving as the managing editor for Pickup Truck + SUV Talk and co-hosts two podcasts: the Consumer Guide Automotive Car Stuff Podcast and the Pickup Truck + SUV Talk Podcast.
website: www.pickuptrucktalk.com
twitter/instagram: @jillciminillo
twitter/instagram: @girlinthetrunk
tiktok: @jillciminillo

[@sirgardensalot]

I don't know any EV that limps into a charging station with 60 miles left ,my Audi e-tron has about 60 miles left and I am towing a small trailer and it certainly not limping when I get home, my commute is 80 miles a day I always start with 141 miles (I only charge to 90%) in the morning estimated range because I have a trailer on, without the trailer it should have an average range of 222 miles if for some reason I need more range I can just run to a DC fast charger and in 20 minutes I am good to go

[@Dusdaddy]

Jeep always tried those odd models to increase their customer base. The patriot, the compass, the liberty. Then the Renegade. They always try but they just don't do small economy well. Stick to what you know.

[@jillciminillo]

But what they know isn't working for them at the moment. This new strategy is going to be interesting.

[@Dusdaddy]

@@jillciminillo I think they do off-road well but they need to keep it simpler. Trying to emulate Range Rover where it's designed to be tough and luxurious doesn't work.....just ask Range Rover.