Episode Breakdown
- Connected cars and surveillance – 00:01:28
- Sean Garrard on Forthing in Australia – 00:15:19
- Rolln mopeds and swappable batteries – 00:22:32
- Steve Lewis on Ausgrid community batteries – 00:30:54
- Adam Slinger on children’s energy education – 00:32:48
- Bill Thomas on independent tyre testing – 00:38:51
- EV charging and the GAC Aion V – 00:43:35
David Brown and Paul Murrell examine privacy and cyber-security risks in connected cars before turning to innovations from Sydney’s Everything Electric show. Sean Garrard explains why Forthing sees Australia as an important proving ground for Chinese brands, while Steve Lewis outlines Ausgrid’s community battery concept and Adam Slinger explores learning about energy through play.
The program also considers removable batteries for urban electric mopeds, the value of rigorous independent tyre testing and the frustrations of app-dependent public EV charging.
Finally, David road tests the GAC Aion V electric SUV, assessing its design, comfort, technology and behaviour on a dirt-road trip.
Full Summary
Connected cars and surveillance
Four Corners prompts debate about data, cameras, microphones and remote access in modern cars. David and Paul argue the security challenge applies to connected vehicles globally, not simply Chinese EVs.
Sean Garrard on Forthing in Australia
Forthing’s Sean Garrard explains China’s crowded domestic car market and why Australia matters. Tough design rules and a major right-hand-drive market make local compliance a valuable test for expansion.
Rolln mopeds and swappable batteries
Rolln’s Jason Held presents an urban electric moped with removable dual batteries. Owners can carry batteries indoors to charge, while high-use riders can keep multiple packs in rotation.
Steve Lewis on Ausgrid community batteries
Steve Lewis explains community batteries designed to absorb surplus rooftop solar, support fast charging and give the electricity network more flexibility while potentially reducing overall system costs. Pasted markdown
Adam Slinger on children’s energy education
Adam Slinger describes discovery spaces where children learn through curiosity and play. Interactive energy exhibits make solar, electricity use and EV charging visible rather than relying on classroom-style instruction. Pasted markdown
Bill Thomas on independent tyre testing
Former Wheels editor Bill Thomas recalls controlled tyre comparisons covering wet and dry conditions, braking, cornering and slalom tests, highlighting the substantial performance differences between tyres. Pasted markdown
EV charging and the GAC Aion V
Public charging exposes the frustrations of multiple apps, accounts and unreliable payment. David then tests the Aion V’s comfort and technology, cautiously taking the electric SUV onto dirt roads. Pasted markdown Pasted markdown