The C&C Auto Show

#2056 - Cars Are Getting Smarter. But Are They Getting Better?

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Autonomous Cars, AI, Car Costs, EVs and the Technology Changing How We Drive

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From driverless cars navigating unexpected obstacles to artificial intelligence changing collision repair and insurance claims, automotive technology is moving fast—and not everyone at the C&C Auto Show table agrees on whether that’s a good thing. This episode brings plenty of laughs along with a practical conversation about autonomous vehicles, automatic braking, AI, vehicle theft, license plate reader cameras, and the privacy and safety questions that come with new technology.

The conversation also turns to something nearly every driver feels: the cost of owning a vehicle. The crew discusses rising new and used car prices, repair costs, keeping paid-off vehicles longer, EV charging and battery life, and whether the potential fuel savings of an electric vehicle justify a higher purchase price. Listen to or watch the embedded episode for the full discussion, caller experiences, tech talk, and the C&C Auto Show crew’s trademark back-and-forth.

Questions and Answers

Quick answers from this C&C Auto Show episode covering autonomous vehicles, AI, car ownership costs, EVs, vehicle security, and automotive technology.

Are autonomous and driverless cars safe?

The show explores both sides of the issue. The crew discusses safety features that can detect pedestrians and other hazards, while also raising concerns about how driverless vehicles respond to unusual situations that human drivers may handle differently.

How is AI affecting the automotive industry?

AI is becoming part of several automotive processes, including collision repair and insurance claims. The discussion also highlights concerns about AI-altered vehicle damage photos and the additional verification insurers may use to identify manipulated images.

Why are automotive repairs becoming more expensive?

Modern vehicles combine mechanical systems with computers, electronics, hydraulics, sensors, and other advanced technology. The show explains that repairing these vehicles properly requires skilled technicians, specialized knowledge, and increasingly expensive parts.

Is keeping a paid-off car a good way to control vehicle costs?

The episode describes the paid-off vehicle already in the driveway as often being the least expensive option. The crew also discusses how improved vehicle longevity is allowing many owners to keep their cars for more miles and more years.

Why are new cars becoming harder for some consumers to afford?

The conversation points to vehicle prices, monthly payments, insurance, fuel, maintenance, taxes, and repair expenses. Together, those costs can make purchasing and owning a newer vehicle difficult for households working within a tight budget.

Can electric vehicles cost less to fuel than gasoline vehicles?

The episode compares EV charging expenses with gasoline costs and includes a caller sharing a low-cost home charging experience. The crew also emphasizes looking beyond energy costs and considering the vehicle's purchase price when comparing overall expenses.

How long can an electric vehicle battery last?

The show notes that some EV batteries are lasting longer than early expectations, with examples discussed in the eight-to-ten-year range and at high mileage. Battery replacement cost and the effect of an aging battery on vehicle value remain important considerations in the conversation.

Why have some Kia and Hyundai vehicles been targeted by thieves?

The crew discusses thefts involving certain vehicles with keyed ignitions and how some could be stolen using simple tools. They also mention an available manufacturer remedy for affected vehicles and the importance of owners having applicable updates performed.

What happens when automatic braking detects a pedestrian?

The show describes vehicles slowing or stopping when their systems anticipate that a pedestrian or other person may enter their path. The discussion also considers what happens when someone intentionally exploits that behavior to force a driverless vehicle to stop.

What are the benefits and privacy concerns surrounding Flock cameras?

The episode discusses how license plate reader cameras can assist law enforcement in cases involving missing people, suspicious vehicles, and other public-safety concerns. It also addresses misuse and stresses the importance of oversight, auditing access, and holding people accountable when the technology is used improperly.

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