A go-to for breaking global industry stories.

AUTOMOTIVE News Daily Drive is an ideal insight into up-to-the-minute automotive sector happenings.

Helmed by Automotive News executive editor Jamie Butters and reporter Kellen Walke, the series ensures listeners are constantly in the loop with the freshest industry developments.

https://soundcloud.com/andailydrive/may-7-2024

The daily podcast is an extension of the Automotive News website, effectively mirroring the publication’s deep industry ties and broad scope of coverage. It fuels interest among enthusiasts and professionals by discussing various topics, from cutting-edge vehicle technology and market trends to in-depth analysis of automotive startups and industry challenges.

Daily Drive often parallels closest rival, Autoline Daily, another heavyweight in automotive news podcasts. Although Autoline might boast a richer array of industry connections and a more diverse lineup of guest appearances, Daily Drive manages to hold its own with its rigorous journalism and timely content.

One of the podcast's strengths is its engagement with industry commentators, making for an engaging listen. However, the podcast's format is currently audio-only. A potential move into video content could enhance the listener's experience and expand the show's reach, demonstrating the podcast's commitment to evolving and improving.

Listeners with a penchant for automotive design and the nuances of startup culture will appreciate recent episodes that delve into the saga of Fisker, whose Ocean is pictured above. 

The podcast doesn’t shy away from discussing the turbulence faced by this America-only luxury EV manufacturer, led by the eminent designer Henrik Fisker (who brought us the Aston Martin DB9 and BMW Z8). Episodes cover everything from severe financial setbacks to production halts by contract manufacturer Magna Steyr, providing an informative and thought-provoking comprehensive overview.

While Automotive News excels in providing a global perspective, it occasionally exhibits a US-centric weighting in its reporting and advertising. This focus might skew the broader global context that international listeners seek, although it doesn’t detract from the quality of information.

The podcast’s crisp and clear audio delivery makes for a pleasant listening experience. However, an overzealous use of pre-show advertising and introductory music that could be more subtly integrated occasionally marred the experience.

For those unbothered by the lack of visual flare or charismatic host dynamics, Daily Drive is an essential hub for anyone looking to stay well-informed about the automotive industry’s evolving landscape. It is accessible across Apple Podcasts, Soundcloud and Spotify and it has an auditory presence on YouTube.

Automotive News Daily Drive Homepage: https://soundcloud.com/andailydrive