In Wheel Time - Cartalk Radio

A special In Wheel Time replay - Ever wandered through a museum where cars aren't just machines, but masterpieces? Mary Agrusa takes us inside the Savoy Auto Museum in Cartersville, Georgia, where vehicles are displayed with the reverence typically reserved for fine art. "We consider this really more an art museum dedicated to the automobile," Mary explains, and her passion for automotive history shines through as she guides us through exhibits that tell stories beyond horsepower and torque figures. Each vehicle comes with a reader board that doesn't just list specifications but delves into fascinating backstories—why a particular model succeeded or failed, its historical significance, or quirky facts about its design. Visitors can walk 360 degrees around most cars, appreciating them from every angle under specially designed lighting that showcases their sculptural qualities. From an untouched 1925 Model T about to celebrate its 100th birthday to the elegant lineup of Studebakers charting

Special In Wheel Time replay-  Buckle up for a high-octane journey through Texas' most thrilling road race and cutting-edge automotive innovations. We're kicking things into high gear with Rhonda Palmer from the Big Bend Open Road Race, giving us an insider's look at what makes this 59-mile stretch between Fort Stockton and Sanderson the ultimate driving challenge. With 59 curves and 59 elevation changes, participants push their cars to technical speeds of 160+ mph while racing against the clock rather than each other.Rhonda shares personal racing stories that capture the essence of the event - from strategic passing maneuvers to the friendly smack talk between drivers. What makes this conversation particularly refreshing is Rhonda's perspective as one of the few female drivers participating, and her passionate encouragement for more women to experience the thrill of high-performance driving. The detailed breakdown of safety protocols, class structures, and community impact reveals why thi

Drag racing fans rejoice! The International Hot Rod Association is roaring back to life with a racer-friendly approach that challenges the status quo of professional drag racing. Division Director Doug Foley joins the In Wheel Time podcast to share how IHRA is reinventing itself after years in the shadows of larger sanctioning bodies.The biggest news? Top Fuel dragsters and Funny Cars are returning to IHRA competition after a 15-year absence, with full eight-car fields already committed to the upcoming season opener at National Trail Raceway in Ohio this July. Racing legends like Scott Palmer, Dale Creasy Jr., and Terry Haddock have signed on, drawn by IHRA's compelling format: $50,000 winner purses requiring just five runs to claim victory, compared to eight runs in other series."We're not trying to copy anybody else," Foley explains, detailing how IHRA has crafted its program specifically for racers who want competitive action without breaking the bank. While top teams in other series mi

Are electric vehicles at a crossroads? This question drives our enlightening conversation with renowned automotive expert Jack Nerad, who joins us from California to share his perspectives on the current state of EVs and the automotive industry at large.Range anxiety emerges as a genuine dealbreaker rather than a minor inconvenience. When Mike shares his frustrating experience with a Volvo EV that can't complete his 112-mile commute without an hour-long charging stop, the practical limitations of current electric technology become painfully clear. Jack points out that without tax incentives on the horizon, manufacturers face an uphill battle convincing mainstream consumers to embrace fully electric vehicles. The consensus? Plug-in hybrids might offer the most practical solution for today's drivers who want efficiency without sacrificing convenience.The conversation shifts to the endangered species that auto shows have become. Despite evidence that these exhibitions connect with enthusiastic consumer

Ready for an explosive Fourth of July? Our latest episode delivers your ultimate guide to celebrating Independence Day across Texas, highlighting spectacular destinations that cater to every preference. Discover why Addison's Kaboom Town ranks as the nation's third-best fireworks display, drawing 400,000 visitors with its impressive aerial shows and vintage warplane exhibitions. We explore everything from Fair Park's family-friendly atmosphere with Army Reserve Band performances to Frisco's two-day Freedom Fest honoring our veterans.For those seeking alternatives to traditional celebrations, we spotlight innovative options like the sensory-friendly LED light show in Cypress Waters, perfect for those sensitive to loud noises, and Stanford's Cowboy Reunion with its authentic western flair featuring chuckwagon cook-offs and rodeo events. Whether you're heading to Austin for the symphony-synchronized fireworks or planning to stroll Irving's illuminated Canal Walk, we've got

Buckle up for a high-octane conversation as we welcome Owen Pittman, the dynamic promoter behind Houston Motorsports Park and its sister track in Corpus Christi. With the adrenaline-pumping Elite 410 Wingless Sprint Car event just days away, Pittman gives us an exclusive preview of what promises to be one of the most electrifying races of the season.These aren't your ordinary sprint cars. Primarily dirt track racers, these teams are converting their machines for a rare asphalt appearance, creating a unique challenge that will showcase pure racing talent. As Pittman reveals, "They're going to be by far the fastest things gone around that oval in a long time, if not ever." With 16-18 cars expected, including top points leaders and championship winners, this July 5th event is shaping up to be unmissable.Perhaps the most surprising revelation comes when Pittman shares his Crown Victoria racing program. For just $200 plus a crash clause fee, anyone can suit up in professional gear and race a fo

Driver assistance technologies are facing a major identity crisis according to a revealing new JD Power white paper. While automakers invest billions into developing these systems, consumers remain largely unimpressed and unwilling to pay premium prices for features they don't trust. This fascinating disconnect forms the centerpiece of our discussion, where we explore why only 24% of drivers feel these technologies make them better drivers.The conversation takes a practical turn as our hosts share their firsthand experiences with these systems. From automatic emergency braking that unexpectedly activates while backing out of driveways to start-stop technology that most immediately disable, we dive into the frustrations of modern automotive tech. There's a clear theme throughout: drivers still want to drive, not be driven.What makes this technological debate particularly significant is the massive financial stakes involved. Tesla charges $8,000 upfront for its "Full Self-Driving" package, M

Racing up Pikes Peak might seem like a death wish to outsiders, but for automotive daredevils, it represents the ultimate adrenaline rush. This episode takes you inside the 103-year-old Pikes Peak International Hill Climb through the eyes of Richard Tomlin from Apex Auto Works, whose passion for this legendary race is as steep as the mountain itself.The conversation reveals surprising statistics about Texas representation at this iconic Colorado event, where six cars from the Lone Star State make up nearly 10% of the 74-car field. Richard shares fascinating insights into the engineering behind modern roll cages—technology literally tested by drivers who've hit mountain rocks at 95 miles per hour and walked away unscathed.What does it take to race up a mountain with 156 turns and 12 hairpin bends, where one wrong move means a deadly plunge? We explore the detailed credentials required, the early-morning race schedules that begin before dawn, and the unpredictable weather conditions that had crews plowing

The future of transportation isn't what you think. While autonomous vehicles grab headlines, a different revolution is already happening – remote driving technology that puts humans behind virtual wheels, controlling vehicles from anywhere on earth.Speaking with Enn Lanoo, CEO of Estonia-based Elmo Remote Driving, we discovered a technology that's not just theoretical but actively deployed and road-legal since 2022. Unlike the still-developing autonomous systems, Elmo's technology creates a seamless connection between remote drivers and vehicles, with applications spanning car rentals, taxis, mining operations, and even defense sectors in conflict zones.What makes this technology particularly fascinating is its practical approach to solving real transportation problems. Imagine renting a car that arrives at your doorstep, driven remotely by an operator who then relinquishes control to you. When you're finished, you simply end your session, and a teledriver takes over again. For taxi servic

Seeking refuge from Texas summer heat? Join us as we uncover the most spectacular swimming holes and natural pools scattered across the Lone Star State. From the iconic Barton Springs Pool in Austin, where 68-degree spring-fed waters provide year-round relief, to the emerald paradise of Wimberley's Blue Hole nestled among towering cypress trees, we've mapped the perfect aquatic escape plan regardless of where your Texas travels take you.Discover hidden gems like Hamilton Pool Preserve with its collapsed grotto and 50-foot waterfall, or venture to Balmorhea State Park in West Texas, home to the state's largest spring-fed swimming pool holding a staggering 3.5 million gallons of crystal-clear water. Whether you're looking for family-friendly destinations like Schlitterbahn's 70-acre water wonderland or the nostalgic charm of Deep Eddy Pool (Texas' oldest man-made swimming spot), we've got refreshing recommendations that combine natural beauty with cooling comfort.The conversat

The triumphant return of the HEMI V8 engine to Ram trucks headlines this information-packed episode featuring Nick Cappa, Ram Trucks Communications Manager. Customer demand has spoken loudly, bringing back this iconic powerplant that so many truck enthusiasts crave for its distinctive sound, predictable torque, and authentic driving experience.Ram isn't simply reintroducing the HEMI—they're enhancing it with valuable additions including the eTorque mild hybrid system for improved efficiency, a specially tuned exhaust system that amplifies that beloved V8 rumble, and a generous 33-gallon fuel tank for extended range. The response has been overwhelming, with dealer orders quickly reaching allocation limits, demonstrating the passionate following this engine commands.While celebrating the HEMI's comeback, Ram maintains its forward-thinking approach with the impressive Hurricane engine, a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six producing up to 540 horsepower in its high-output configuration. This engineeri

Ever wonder what happens when engineering goes too far? That's the question we tackle head-on as we dive into Chevrolet's most extreme creation yet - the 2026 Corvette ZR1X. With a jaw-dropping 1,250 horsepower and the ability to hit 60 mph in under two seconds, this electrified beast pushes boundaries in ways that left us asking "why?" and "for whom?" Our spirited debate explores the fascinating intersection of automotive excess and genuine innovation. Is this twin-turbo V8 hybrid merely an engineering flex to compete with European exotics like Ferrari and McLaren, or does it represent meaningful advancement in performance technology? The answer, we discover, lies somewhere in the tension between racing-derived technology and practical application.For those seeking something more aligned with real-world needs, our comprehensive review of the 2025 Chevrolet Suburban High Country offers a compelling alternative. This rolling home on wheels showcases impressive evolution with its 3

Scott Ingram's orange 1932 Ford coupe gleams in the Texas sun, but this isn't some pampered show car – it's traveled 350,000 miles over 57 years and counting. As one of the seven original founders of the Lone Star Street Rod Association, 78-year-old Scott embodies the true spirit of hot rodding: build it, drive it, enjoy it."I've been coast to coast, border to border," Scott explains with evident pride, recalling adventures from deer hunting trips to cross-country journeys. When asked if he'd ever part with his beloved '32, his answer comes without hesitation: "I'll give it away before I sell it. It's not for sale." This isn't just transportation – it's family.Beyond his street rod, Scott's technical expertise shines when discussing his nitro-fueled front-engine dragster powered by a heavily modified flathead Ford. The numbers are staggering: 317 cubic inches producing 554 horsepower. "It's good for one thing – going down the

Tucked away just over an hour from Dallas-Fort Worth lies Granbury, Texas – a lakeside town that's become something of a well-kept secret among travelers seeking authentic Texas charm without the crowds. Our broadcast from the Lone Star Street Rod Association's 50th anniversary state run reveals why this hidden gem has earned the official designation as the "Celebration Capital of Texas."Kristen Gibson from the Granbury Convention and Visitors Bureau joins us to share what makes this town special, from its historic downtown square and restored Nuthouse Hotel to the free weekend trolley service that connects major attractions. With over 40 events annually, Granbury has mastered the art of celebration while maintaining its small-town hospitality. Car enthusiasts particularly appreciate how the entire town embraces automotive events, with hotels and restaurants fully prepared for their arrival.Beyond cars, Granbury offers unexpected delights like an intimate 200-seat concert venue housed in a

When classic car lovers gather, stories flow as freely as chrome gleams in the Texas sun. From the Lone Star Street Rod Association's 50th Anniversary celebration in Granbury, we discover the human connections behind these metal masterpieces.Meet Danon Hollinger, who grew up with hot rod magazine fold-outs on her bedroom headboard instead of pop stars. Her gorgeous white 1978 Pontiac Trans Am represents a lifelong dream fulfilled. After years of waiting, she found this beauty through a car club connection – a vehicle with its own poignant history, having been restored for a son who suffered an accident and could no longer drive it. Danon and her husband transformed it with a Tremec five-speed transmission to keep pace with their Houston-area car club on cruises across the country.Then there's Larry Davidson's showstopping 1960 Ford Ranch Wagon – a chrome-laden masterpiece in striking blue. Originally purchased on eBay while searching for something completely different, Larry explains how statio

Hot rods, salt flats, and the sweet sound of engines revving—welcome to a special episode of the In Wheel Time Car Talk Show, broadcast live from the 50th anniversary of the Lone Star Street Rod Association State Run in Granbury, Texas.The centerpiece of our show features Don Grouleff and his remarkable Model A hot rod, emblazoned with the racing number 731. Don's story captivates as he recounts pushing this classic Ford to a breathtaking 196 mph on the Bonneville Salt Flats. With a twinkle in his eye, Don shares how he once spun backward through the timing lights at nearly 190 mph—and still set a speed record. His vintage hot rod, featuring kingpin suspension and an old-school Muncie M-22 four-speed transmission, represents the perfect marriage of traditional aesthetics and high-performance engineering.Don's journey from crop duster pilot to speed enthusiast offers a fascinating glimpse into the mindset required for both professions. After 35 years flying dangerously close to power lines and terrai

The rumble of engines, gleaming chrome, and stories spanning generations fill the air as we broadcast live from the Lone Star Street Rod Association's 50th Anniversary State Run in Granbury, Texas. Father's Day weekend provides the perfect backdrop for this celebration of automotive passion that bridges past and present.Our first guest, Steven Rogers, exemplifies this connection with his beloved 1966 Chevrolet truck. For 31 years, this vehicle has been his constant companion – from high school daily driver to weekend cruiser. "It was in good shape when we got it. We've done things to it along the way," he shares, detailing upgrades from the original 283 engine to a 350 small block and the addition of an overdrive transmission to better handle modern highway speeds. What makes Rogers' story particularly poignant is how he's successfully passed his passion to his teenage children, who now eagerly anticipate this annual gathering.Between guests, we explore the fascinating histo

Step into the high-octane world of automotive excellence as we go behind the scenes with Gary Peterson, President of Shelby American. From the company's iconic Las Vegas facility, Peterson reveals the meticulous process of transforming standard Ford Mustangs into 810-horsepower Shelby GT350s that carry the legacy of Carroll Shelby's performance philosophy."We take a fairly regular or ordinary car and make it spectacular," Peterson explains, detailing how each $110,000 Shelby GT350 receives a custom aluminum hood with functional vents, a 3-liter Whipple supercharger, and unique interior touches that set it apart from standard Mustangs. Every vehicle carries a registered Shelby serial number to protect authenticity and investment value – a testament to the company's commitment to excellence since 1962.What makes these vehicles truly remarkable isn't just their breathtaking performance, but their everyday practicality. Despite supercar-level horsepower, each comes with a three-year

Mike Mueller's passion for America's sports car radiates throughout our conversation about his newly released fifth edition of "The Complete Book of Corvette." Weighing in at a hefty 15 pounds and spanning 352 pages of stunning photography and detailed history, this comprehensive volume tracks the complete evolution of Corvette from its earliest days through the latest C8 models.What makes this book truly special isn't just the technical specifications or beautiful imagery—it's the human stories woven throughout. Mueller shares personal anecdotes about meeting Corvette legends, including his memorable encounter with Zora Arkus-Duntov at the 1994 grand opening of the Corvette Museum. "These aren't just cars," Mueller reminds us. "These are cars designed and built by men and women... and Corvette is a prime example."The interview offers fascinating glimpses into automotive publishing, from Mueller's journalism beginnings at the University of Illinois t

Ready for a driving adventure that combines family fun with hair-raising curves? Buckle up as we journey through Texas Hill Country to discover the legendary "Twisted Sisters" – a 100-mile loop featuring a breathtaking 15-mile stretch packed with 65 challenging curves. This driving paradise begins in Medina and winds through Leakey, offering spectacular vistas and thrilling hairpin turns that have made it a favorite among driving enthusiasts and motorcyclists alike.The surrounding Hill Country isn't just for gearheads though. We explore family-friendly destinations including Garner State Park's 1,700 acres with 2.9 miles of the Frio River for floating and fishing, plus 16 miles of hiking trails. Nearby Hill Country State Natural Area offers 40 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Don't miss the mysteriously named "Cave with No Name" near Boerne – a limestone cavern deemed too beautiful to name when opened to the public in 1939.We also dive into the fasci