Wide Open Throttle Season 5 Episode 9 Future of Enthusiast Cars

As car enthusiasts anxiously await the future of the automobile industry, rumors and speculation continue to circulate about what's to come. Will we continue down the path of gas-guzzling muscle cars, or will we embrace more efficient, electrified vehicles? In this episode of Wide Open Throttle, the team takes a look at the potential future of enthusiast cars.

To begin, the hosts examine the current state of the industry, noting that electric cars are becoming increasingly common. While some enthusiasts may bemoan the death of the traditional V8 engine, others see the rise of electric vehicles as a positive step forward. After all, electric motors offer instant torque, a smooth and quiet ride, and fewer emissions.

Next, the crew discusses the potential for alternative fuels, such as hydrogen, to take over the market. While hydrogen fuel cell vehicles are currently more expensive than their electric counterparts, it's possible that they could become more viable in the future. However, with a lack of refueling infrastructure and relatively low demand, the adoption of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles is currently slow-going.

The team then delves into the realm of autonomous driving, which has the potential to drastically change the way we think about cars altogether. While the idea of a car that drives itself may be appealing to some, others fear that this technology will take away the joy of driving. Additionally, there are still many hurdles to overcome before autonomous vehicles become a widespread reality, including legal and safety issues.

As the conversation turns to design, the hosts explore the possibility of a future filled with sleek, futuristic vehicles that look more like spaceships than cars. While this may seem like a departure from the classic muscle cars of the past, it's important to remember that the aesthetics of cars have always been influenced by the technology of the time.

Throughout the episode, the team highlights various niche markets within the industry that are often overlooked. For example, they discuss the potential for off-road vehicles to become more popular as cities become increasingly crowded and people seek out rugged, outdoor experiences. They also speculate about the role that racing will play in the future of the industry, noting that motorsports have always been a way for manufacturers to showcase their engineering prowess.

Ultimately, the episode offers a balanced look at the various directions that the automobile industry could take in the coming years. While there's no way to predict the future with complete certainty, the Wide Open Throttle team encourages viewers to stay optimistic and embrace the potential for change. After all, no matter what the future holds, there will always be car enthusiasts who are passionate about driving and the technology behind it.