Episode Breakdown
- Sales shifts and steady growth – 00:01:32
- Price competition and buying value – 00:13:14
- Mitsubishi’s electric evolution – 00:19:22
- Small vehicles, bigger possibilities – 00:24:53
- Connected cars and cybersecurity – 00:33:28
- The right car in the right setting – 00:40:46
- Mazda 6e road test – 00:43:03
Short Summary
David Brown and Paul Murrell explore Australia’s changing car market, where electric vehicles and Chinese brands are reshaping buying decisions.
They discuss sales trends, tempting deals and how today’s equipment compares with the once-familiar $19,990 Nissan Pulsar.
Mitsubishi’s early i-MiEV provides perspective on electric motoring’s progress, while small EVs raise bigger questions about local mobility.
There is also a follow-up on connected-car cybersecurity, before a Southern Highlands outing and a road test of Mazda’s electric 6e.
Fuller Summary
Sales shifts and steady growth
EV demand and Chinese brands reshape the market. David separates steady growth from monthly fluctuations, considering supply, model launches and buyers’ changing priorities.
Price competition and buying value
Finance offers and sharper EV prices challenge established brands. A look back at the Nissan Pulsar puts today’s prices, equipment and expectations into perspective.
Mitsubishi’s electric evolution
Mitsubishi’s announced electric SUV prompts memories of the i-MiEV: an early city EV whose limited range, price and charging challenges illustrate how far the technology has moved.
Small vehicles, bigger possibilities
A questionable online scooter listing sparks a serious discussion about local mobility and suburb design. The Geely EX2 highlights small EVs competing beyond the electric category.
Connected cars and cybersecurity
BYD’s response to Four Corners opens a wider discussion about software access, remote updates and recalls. Fixing one vulnerability raises broader questions for every connected-car brand.
The right car in the right setting
David takes the Mazda 6e to a Southern Highlands vineyard festival, exploring how a car’s surroundings can bring out its design, character and appeal.
Mazda 6e road test
Elegant styling and comfortable front seats meet rear-seat compromises and intrusive lane assistance. A Sydney-Bowral trip shows how elevation affects energy use.
Program Credits
Presented by David Brown with Paul Murrell. Thanks to Evan Jones. Overdrive is broadcast across Australia on the Community Radio Network. Find more under Cars Transport Culture.