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 brands headed for Australia – There’s manufacturing revolution going on here and around the world (07:51)
· Road Test the Suzuki 5 door Jimny (12:25)
· Two legends of the Australian Rally scene – Wayne Bell and David Body (24:50)
News summaries
· New Polestar 3: Sleek Design and Powerful Performance at a Price (01:04)
Alan Zurvas from GayCarBoys.com shared insights into the Polestar 3, an electric SUV with a sleek, low-slung design. Different from previous models, the Polestar 3 offers strong performance with variants featuring impressive torque and range.
The car’s minimalist design philosophy removes unnecessary elements for both aesthetic and aerodynamic benefits. Polestar’s offerings highlight the influx of electric vehicles, including new Chinese brands entering the Australian market.
This trend reflects the rapid growth of Chinese automakers, dominating the electric car industry by producing affordable, high-performance vehicles, which could soon become the largest in the world.
China’s Dominance in Electric Vehicle Market Trends (07:51)
As the electric vehicle market expands, Chinese manufacturers are dominating with their affordable models. Companies like Geely, which also owns brands like Polestar and Volvo, are growing rapidly and are predicted to soon become the world’s largest car producers.
Although Chinese car designs at times lack variety, they are highly competitive in pricing. Additionally, Smart Cars have made a return in collaboration with Mercedes-Benz.
While Korean manufacturers bring vibrant colours to the market, Chinese cars are often seen in more subdued shades, contributing to a shift in vehicle aesthetics.
Rugged and Ready: The Suzuki Jimny’s Adventure Appeal in Australia (12:25)
The Suzuki Jimny is a compact off-roader now available as a five door model, the XL, in Australia.
Jimny’s are classified in the light SUV segment and unlike the more city-focused Mazda CX-3, the Jimny is a true 4WD vehicle with a rugged heritage.
So far in 2024, sales of the Jimny are up 68%, with a 133% increase in September alone. It is Suzuki’s best selling model so far this year.
It features a 1.5-litre engine paired with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission. While the Jimny excels off-road, on-road performance can feel vague, particularly in steering.
Despite its quirks, the Jimny’s charm, practicality, and adventurous spirit have captured the hearts of younger drivers and those seeking a versatile 4WD.
Rally Legends: David Body and Wayne Bell’s 21-Year Journey (24:50)
Each Saturday in Newcastle, a community of motoring enthusiasts gathers to share stories over sausage sandwiches. Recently, two rally legends, David Body and Wayne Bell, recounted their 21-year partnership that began during an era when rallying was a grassroots passion, fuelled by personal funds and hard work.
The didn’t start their careers together but when they did, with Wayne behind the wheel and David navigating, they campaigned a Mitsubishi Galant.
Despite starting on a shoestring budget, their dedication and skill led them to become part of a prestigious works team. Their story is a testament to the passion and camaraderie that defined rallying’s golden years.
Contacts Details
Web Site: Driven Media: drivenmedia.com.au
Podcasts
iTunes: Cars Transport Culture
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Search for Cars transport culture
Credits
And this has been overdrive
Thanks to
· Alan Zurvas
· Evan Jones
· Wayne Bell
· Dave Body
· Suzuki Australia
· Mark Wesley
· Bruce Potter
for their help with this program.
You can get more of our work including longer versions of the program on our website, through our podcasts, or more visual information on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube. In all cases search for cars transport culture.
Overdrive is syndicated across Australia on the Community Radio Network
This program was first broadcast on 28 September 2024
I’m David Brown
Thanks for listening
