Current Outlook

Eric Bendler
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  • Automotive

Welcome to Current Outlook, a channel dedicated to the intersection of high-level operations, the electric vehicle revolution, and the future of the electrical grid. As a operations executive with over 15 years in the eMobility sector, I’ve seen firsthand how technical innovation and the grid collide to bring the next evolution of lifestyles and energy use. This channel is designed to bridge those gaps, offering a grounded perspective on the systems and strategies that move us forward.

  1. Oct 26

    Most Americans Can’t Charge an EV at Home (Here’s Why)

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Are you ready to tackle the pressing challenges facing electric vehicle (EV) adoption in multi-family housing? In this electrifying episode, Eric dives deep with Alex Sibila, a thought leader in the EV charging sector, sharing critical insights on how to bridge the gap between renters and charging solutions in apartments. If you’re a property owner, manager, or a resident eager to understand the future of EV infrastructure, this conversation is a must-listen! Eric kicks off the discussion by highlighting the staggering statistic that 60% of Americans are renters, yet only 5% of apartments offer EV charging. This gap creates a significant bottleneck for EV adoption, especially as the market for electric vehicles grows. Alex brings his unique expertise to the table, revealing how property owners can not only meet the demand for charging solutions but also enhance their bottom line. You'll discover: The economic benefits of installing EV chargers in rental properties and how this can lead to increased tenant retention.Why 80% of EV charging occurs at home and the implications for renters who lack charging access.The concept of the "split incentive" and how it can hinder the installation of charging stations in multi-unit dwellings.Concrete strategies that landlords can implement to encourage EV ownership among their tenants.As the conversation unfolds, Eric and Alex explore the current landscape of EV adoption rates, touching on the impact of federal tax incentives and market fluctuations. They emphasize the importance of equipping rental properties with charging infrastructure as a means to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving real estate market. This episode is essential listening for anyone involved in real estate, property management, or simply interested in the future of sustainable living. Don't miss out on the opportunity to be part of the conversation that could shape the future of urban living and mobility. Press play now to learn how you can drive change in your community and make a positive impact on the environment! Time Stamps: 07:12 The State of Renting and Home Ownership 09:32 Challenges of EV Charging in Rentals 11:50 Understanding the Split Incentive 21:22 The Importance of Smart Charging Solutions 22:30 Comparative Insights: Global EV Charging Trends 26:08 Innovative Financing Models for EV Charging 28:01 Understanding the Right to Charge for Renters 29:49 Engaging Property Owners in EV Charging Solutions 30:52 The One Accountable Partner Strategy 32:14 Streamlined Installation and Ongoing Support 33:55 Cost Considerations for EV Charger Installation 35:57 Evaluating Return on Investment for Charging Stations

    Most Americans Can’t Charge an EV at Home (Here’s Why)

  2. Oct 25

    Gas Cars Just Fell Below 50% of New Sales (For the First Time Ever)

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Gas cars just fell below 50% of new sales for the first time, lithium is down 40%, and electric cars are on track to be the cheapest option to own by 2027. Here’s what changed in the EV market. In this episode of Current Outlook, Eric breaks down the lithium price collapse and what it does to EV battery costs, the Rivian and Redwood Materials closed-loop battery partnership, megawatt charging standards for electric trucks, and global EV sales topping 2 million in a single month. ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Intro 00:39 New Format 01:13 Lithium Prices 02:14 Lithium Supply 03:18 Stardust Hub 03:58 Dry Electrodes 05:15 Rivian & Redwood 06:00 Truck Charging 06:46 Tesla Rates 07:23 Charging Networks 08:40 Curbside Charging 09:19 Gas Sales Drop 10:10 Tesla Roadster & Semi 11:09 Range Rover EV 12:12 Mercedes & EV Share 13:28 Wrap-Up 🔋 YOU’LL DISCOVER ✅ Why gas vehicles dropped below 50% of new car sales for the first time in history ✅ How a 40% drop in lithium prices flows through to EV battery costs and sticker prices ✅ Why electric cars are projected to be the cheapest vehicles to own by 2027 ✅ How companies are extracting lithium from oilfield waste instead of new mines ✅ What Stardust Power is doing to make lithium refining cleaner ✅ How Rivian and Redwood Materials are building a closed-loop EV battery lifecycle ✅ Why megawatt charging standards unlock long-haul electric trucks ✅ What 2 million EV sales in one month says about global demand

    Gas Cars Just Fell Below 50% of New Sales (For the First Time Ever)

  3. Oct 24 ·  Bonus

    How The Original Tesla Roadster Was Almost A Disaster

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Get ready for an electrifying ride as we dive into the untold story of the Tesla Roadster—the game-changing vehicle that redefined the automotive industry. Join Eric as he unpacks the origins of this revolutionary car that almost didn't make it, revealing how it transformed electric vehicles from a niche market to a mainstream phenomenon. You’ll discover the shocking reality behind the original Roadster: a project plagued by delays, budget overruns, and a lifecycle that brought Tesla to the brink of bankruptcy. Eric takes you through the pivotal moments leading up to the much-anticipated reveal of the new Roadster, drawing parallels between past challenges and future promises. What drove Tesla to take such daring risks, and how did those decisions shape the company we know today? In this episode, we break down key insights including: the engineering trials that almost sank the Roadster, the strategic choices that led Tesla to borrow from SpaceX for its latest model, and the crucial factors that made the first Roadster a success despite its flaws. Eric shares his insider perspective on how Tesla's early days, marked by innovative thinking and audacious goals, set the stage for its current trajectory. Why does this matter now? With the auto industry racing towards electrification, understanding the roots of Tesla's journey is essential for anyone invested in the future of transportation. The stakes are high, and the lessons learned from the Roadster's tumultuous history are more relevant than ever. This episode is perfect for automotive enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and anyone curious about how a near-failure became a beacon of hope for electric vehicles. Tune in for a fascinating exploration of innovation, perseverance, and the electrifying future that lies ahead.Book 15-mins to review consulting needs for your business. https://calendly.com/ericbendler/30min Website: www.current-outlook.com Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/ericbendler LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericbendler TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@currentoutlook Substack: https://substack.com/@currentoutlook YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@current-outlook Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/currentoutlook Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6nX4rKfa07JnRbUs7QSQG9

    How The Original Tesla Roadster Was Almost A Disaster

  4. Oct 13

    The Mitsubishi Eclipse has been electrified! (And Jaguar Just Went To 1,000 Horsepower)

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! The electric vehicle revolution is accelerating, and you won’t want to miss this week’s exhilarating updates! Host Eric dives into the latest game-changing announcements, including Mitsubishi’s triumphant return to the American EV market with the all-new 2027 Eclipse Sportback EV, a sleek crossover set to redefine affordability at under $35,000. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the future of sustainable transportation and the innovations reshaping the automotive landscape. Eric breaks down the specifics of Mitsubishi’s new model, highlighting its impressive 260 to 300 miles of range and cutting-edge features like vehicle-to-load power export. But that’s just the beginning! You’ll discover how Lucid Motors is shifting gears with the upcoming Cosmos SUV, targeting a price under $50,000, and how its prototype is already competing with Tesla’s Model Y on public roads. Plus, get a sneak peek of Jaguar’s bold electric pivot with the astonishing Type Zero One, boasting over 1,000 horsepower and a luxurious design that challenges the status quo. We also explore the exciting world of electric motorcycling with Stark Future’s jaw-dropping Varg SM Skull, a street-legal supermoto that delivers 80 horsepower without the hassle of traditional bike maintenance. Eric asks the big questions: Are legacy brands effectively reviving their classic names for a new electric era? How does this influence consumer perception in a rapidly changing market? Stay informed and engaged as we break down the stakes of these developments - from the consequences of missing out on the latest EV tech to the opportunities these innovations create for drivers. As the industry shifts towards electrification, understanding these trends is crucial for enthusiasts and potential buyers alike. Perfect for automotive aficionados and eco-conscious consumers, this episode of Current Outlook is your essential guide to navigating the electrifying future of transportation. Tune in for insights that will keep you ahead of the curve and ensure you’re never left in the dust!

    The Mitsubishi Eclipse has been electrified! (And Jaguar Just Went To 1,000 Horsepower)

  5. Oct 12

    Your Next EV Battery Will Be Made From Old Ones (And It’s Getting Cheaper)

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! GM is putting recycled battery metals into new trucks, Samsung SDI is mass-producing LFP batteries in the U.S., and a 240,000-ton lithium deal just landed. The EV battery supply chain is closing its loop. In this episode of Current Outlook, Eric covers GM’s use of recycled battery materials in production trucks, the lithium supply agreement with LG Energy Solution, and Samsung SDI’s U.S. lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery production that skips nickel and cobalt entirely. ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS 0:00 Battery Supply Update 0:59 GM Battery Recycling 2:43 Quebec Lithium Deal 4:22 Samsung’s U.S. LFP Push 6:03 Tesla Cybercabs 7:16 Battery Show Preview 8:49 Community Question 🔋 YOU’LL DISCOVER ✅ How GM became one of the first automakers to put recycled battery metals into new trucks at production scale ✅ Why battery recycling cuts the carbon intensity of an EV battery and turns dead packs into feedstock ✅ The real factory numbers behind the operations in Michigan and Tennessee ✅ What a 240,000-ton lithium concentrate supply agreement with LG Energy Solution means for North American battery production ✅ Why a stable Canadian lithium supply reduces exposure to overseas pricing ✅ How Samsung SDI’s U.S. LFP battery production removes nickel and cobalt from the equation, and what that does to EV prices Book 15-mins to review consulting needs for your business. https://calendly.com/ericbendler/30min Website: www.current-outlook.com Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/ericbendler LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericbendler TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@currentoutlook Substack: https://substack.com/@currentoutlook YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@current-outlook Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/currentoutlook Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6nX4rKfa07JnRbUs7QSQG9

    Your Next EV Battery Will Be Made From Old Ones (And It’s Getting Cheaper)

  6. Oct 10

    The $300 Million Bet: FedEx's Game-Changing Move to Electric Delivery Trucks

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! FedEx ordered 2,000 electric trucks for $300 million and expects $800 million in fuel savings. Plus 250 electric garbage trucks at Republic Services and battery electric locomotives hauling freight. In this episode of Current Outlook, Eric breaks down the economics behind FedEx’s electric delivery trucks, how Republic Services runs electric refuse trucks on one of the hardest duty cycles in trucking, and the battery electric locomotives now working in Chicago and California. ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 - Heavy electrification is no longer a pilot 00:30 - What this episode covers and why it matters 01:49 - FedEx’s $300 million order for Harbinger electric trucks 03:23 - Why Harbinger’s clean-sheet 800-volt chassis matters 04:16 - Fixed delivery routes and overnight charging economics 04:43 - Republic Services scales to 250 electric refuse trucks 05:37 - Co-developing the Volterra electric collection truck 06:04 - Refuse-truck redesign for driver comfort and safety 06:31 - HUDDIG’s electric backhoe loader and 40% battery boost 07:27 - Regenerative braking and extended electric operation 08:27 - Quiet construction work in urban and indoor environments 08:55 - Metra launches battery-electric passenger rail in Chicago 09:50 - 65-mile range and fast turnaround charging on rail 10:19 - Union Pacific tests battery locomotives in Southern California 11:29 - City Harvest’s electric refrigerated trucks in New York 12:04 - Why diesel reefers are a neighborhood pollution problem 12:47 - Charging speed, range, and food rescue logistics 13:14 - Which sector will scale faster: trucks or rail? 💡 WHY IT MATTERS Heavy-duty electrification now wins on cost, not just emissions. For fleet operators, cities, and anyone tracking the freight business, these three stories are the same story: the spreadsheet flipped. 💬 Which fleet will go electric fastest: parcel delivery, refuse, or rail? Tell us in the comments. Book 15-mins to review consulting needs for your business. https://calendly.com/ericbendler/30min Website: www.current-outlook.com Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/ericbendler LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericbendler TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@currentoutlook Substack: https://substack.com/@currentoutlook YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@current-outlook Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/currentoutlook Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6nX4rKfa07JnRbUs7QSQG9

    The $300 Million Bet: FedEx's Game-Changing Move to Electric Delivery Trucks

  7. Oct 10

    Why Tesla Finally Caved. V2H on Model 3/Y + Lucid News

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Your Tesla Model 3 or Model Y can now run your house during a power outage. Tesla’s PowerShare update turns the car into home backup power, and for most households it’s a bigger battery than anything you can buy for the garage. For context: a Tesla Powerwall holds about 13.5 kilowatt-hours. A portable power station like an EcoFlow Delta Pro holds around 4. A Model Y’s pack is roughly 75. You already own the biggest battery on your property. In this episode I break down what bidirectional charging actually requires at your house, what it costs, how Tesla’s approach compares to Ford’s Intelligent Backup Power and GM Energy’s setup, and where the catch is, because there is one. CHAPTERS 0:00 Intro 0:34 Tesla PowerShare 2:19 Home Backup Explained 3:20 AI Cuts Charging Costs 5:39 Smarter EV Charging 7:26 Lucid UX 3.0 8:45 Lucid Software Upgrades 9:20 Community Question WORK WITH ME Book 15-mins to review consulting needs for your business. https://calendly.com/ericbendler/30min Website: www.current-outlook.com Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/ericbendler LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericbendler TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@currentoutlook Substack: https://substack.com/@currentoutlook YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@current-outlook Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/currentoutlook Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6nX4rKfa07JnRbUs7QSQG9

    Why Tesla Finally Caved. V2H on Model 3/Y + Lucid News

  8. Oct 8

    Is Your EV Charging Station Becoming a Lounge? The Future of Convenience

    Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! EVgo's 750kW EV charging stations target sub-10-minute charging, IONNA doubled its 400kW network, and gas stations are turning into EV lounges. The EV charging station is being reinvented. In this episode of Current Outlook, Eric breaks down EVgo's next-generation EV charging architecture, IONNA's rapid growth into the largest 400kW DC fast charging network, VinFast's turnkey fleet electrification partnership, and what convenience stores learned about EV drivers at the NACS Show. ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 EV Charging Headlines 00:32 Welcome to Current Outlook 01:05 EVgo’s 750kW Fast-Charging System 02:46 IONNA’s Rapid U.S. Network Expansion 04:42 VinFast and NextMove’s Electric Bus Partnership 06:00 How EV Charging Is Transforming Convenience Stores 08:06 The Future of Workplace EV Charging 09:30 Community Question: Ideal Charging Stop? 09:48 Wrap-Up ⚡ YOU'LL DISCOVER ✅ How EVgo's 750kW EV charging stations aim for sub-10-minute charging by moving power between vehicles dynamically ✅ Why dynamic power allocation raises station throughput and lowers cost per charge for operators ✅ How IONNA, backed by a coalition of automakers, doubled its network into the largest 400kW DC fast charging footprint and won on customer satisfaction ✅ How the VinFast and NextMove partnership gives transit agencies turnkey fleet electrification without managing chargers themselves ✅ What the NACS Show revealed about gas stations rebuilding around longer EV dwell times, with real food, seating, and restrooms 💬 Would a 10-minute charge or a nicer place to wait matter more to you? Tell us in the comments. 👍 Subscribe to Current Outlook for weekly analysis of EV charging, electric vehicles, and charging infrastructure. 🔗 LINKS Book 15-mins to review consulting needs for your business. https://calendly.com/ericbendler/30min Website: www.current-outlook.com Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/ericbendler LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericbendler TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@currentoutlook Substack: https://substack.com/@currentoutlook YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@current-outlook Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/currentoutlook Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6nX4rKfa07JnRbUs7QSQG9

    Is Your EV Charging Station Becoming a Lounge? The Future of Convenience
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About

Welcome to Current Outlook, a channel dedicated to the intersection of high-level operations, the electric vehicle revolution, and the future of the electrical grid. As a operations executive with over 15 years in the eMobility sector, I’ve seen firsthand how technical innovation and the grid collide to bring the next evolution of lifestyles and energy use. This channel is designed to bridge those gaps, offering a grounded perspective on the systems and strategies that move us forward.

Information

  • Creator
    Eric Bendler
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    16
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Eric Bendler
  • Show Website
    Current Outlook