Synopsis
3 automotive industry professionals musing over what ever they feel like. With backgrounds in restoration, conservation, street rods, and automotive history, who knows where the conversation will go.
Episodes
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A Century of Progress comes to and End On This Day November 27, 1901 299s
27/11/2023 Duration: 03minOn this day an often-overlooked automotive visionary passed away in 1901. Starting a solo entrepreneur with a small blacksmith shop, he grew to have all 4 brothers become partners. He changed the way the Midwest was traveled. He altered the way the gold rush ventures reached their destinations. His beliefs led to a gallant attempt to make electric cars. His visions created a once-great automobile manufacturer. www.nodrivinggloves.com#cars #car #collectorcars #oldcars #cartalk #electriccars #ev #hotrod #carhistory #automotivehistory #automobile #thisdayinautomotivehistory #thisdayinhistory #classiccars #onthisday #NaPodPoMo #ithappenedtoday #november26 #avanti #studebaker
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Henry Ford Accepts Change On This Day November 26 298s
26/11/2023 Duration: 04minHenry thought the Model T was the car to end all cars. He might have been incorrect. www.nodrivingloves.com#cars #car #collectorcars #oldcars #cartalk #electriccars #ev #hotrod #carhistory #automotivehistory #automobile #thisdayinautomotivehistory #thisdayinhistory #classiccars #onthisday #NaPodPoMo #ithappenedtoday #november26 #ford #modelA #fordmodelA
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A Thanksgiving Tale First Told Today November 25, 1987 297s
25/11/2023 Duration: 04minBreaking boundaries, today's episode is for the family. Join NDG as we tell a tale about a story, first told to the public on November 25, 1987. www.nodrivingloves.com#cars #car #collectorcars #oldcars #cartalk #electriccars #ev #hotrod #carhistory #automotivehistory #automobile #thisdayinautomotivehistory #thisdayinhistory #classiccars #onthisday #NaPodPoMo #ithappenedtoday #planestrainsandautomobiles #stevemartin #johncandy #comedy #november25
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An Arrow Pierces Buffalo's Twilight, Pierce Arrow's First Drive 296s
24/11/2023 Duration: 04minListen as you are told the tale of what happened on the evening of November 24, 1901, in Buffalo, New York
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Thankful the First Automobile Race in the USA was on Thanksgiving 295s
23/11/2023 Duration: 04minFirst American Car RaceInstead of celebrating what happened on this date, today we are actually celebrating what happened on this day, America's first car race on a blizzard-stricken Thanksgiving Day in 1895.The concept for the inaugural American car race was conceived by H.H. Kohlsaat, publisher of the Chicago Times Herald, inspired by a recent race in France. Kolstadt recognized the potential to propel the burgeoning automobile industry and simultaneously boost newspaper sales. A substantial purse of $5,000 (equivalent to nearly $150,000 today) was offered to attract inventors to create functional self-propelled vehicles, with a $2,000 prize (around $50,000 today) for the winner.Initially planned as a 92-mile journey, the route was shortened to 54 miles from Chicago to Evanston and back due to poor road conditions. The event was rescheduled twice – from July 4th to Labor Day and finally to Thanksgiving 1895 – due to competitors requesting more preparation time.A snowstorm struck Chicago on the eve of the ra
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Celebrating Harley Earl's Legacy on His Birthday, The Father of Automotive Design 294s
22/11/2023 Duration: 04minThe Father of Automotive Design: Celebrating Harley Earl's Legacy on His BirthdayToday, we celebrate the birthday of a pioneer whose influence has left an indelible mark on the automotive industry – Harley Earl. Born on November 22, 1893, in Los Angeles, California, Earl became a trailblazer in the industry, earning the title of the "Father of Automotive Design" for his revolutionary contributions.Harley J. Earl's journey into the world of automobiles began in the early 20th century. His father, J.W. Earl, operated a coach-building shop in LA, exposing young Harley to the intricacies of automotive craftsmanship. Earl's keen interest and innate artistic talent, along with the family business, led him to pursue a career in car design, eventually catching the eye of General Motors (GM) founder William C. Durant.In 1927, Harley Earl joined General Motors, marking the beginning of a transformative era in automotive design. Earl's appointment as the head of GM's Art and Color Section signaled a paradigm shift. He i
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Holiday Gift Suggestions from No Driving Gloves Ep 293
21/11/2023 Duration: 01h05minNo "it happened today" today. Long Episode Tuesday! We are giving you our annual Christmas Gift idea list. This time before Black Friday as opposed to a week before Christmas! www.nodrivinggloves.comJohn's IdeasPhilips GoPure GP5212 High Performance HEPA Air Purifier for CarITEQ Brake Fluid Liquid Tester PenSTUPID Car Tray - Classic Car Tray BundleFebreze Car Air Freshener Vent Clip2 Pack Car Seat Gap FillerCar Cleaning Gel KitDerek's IdeasDURATECH Flexible Tool TrayFluke 62 Max Industrial Infrared ThermometerDEWALT Torque Wrench, Micro Adjust, 3/8" DriveKlein Tools 69149P Electrical Test Kit with Digital MultimeterDEWALT 20V MAX Hammer Drill and Impact Driver, Cordless Power Tool Combo Kit with 2 Batteries and ChargerCRAFTSMAN Screwdriver Set, 12PieceDEWALT Mechanics Tool Set, SAE and Metric, 192-Piece“As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.”#cars #car #collectorcars #oldcars #cartalk #electriccars #ev #hotrod #carhistory #automotivehistory #automobile #thisdayinautomotivehi
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A Cautionary Tale of Yellow Traffic Lights 292s
20/11/2023 Duration: 04minOrigins of the Yellow LightThe origin of the yellow caution light is somewhat ambiguous. A narrative exists crediting William Potts, a Detroit policeman, with integrating a yellow light into traffic signals on November 20th, 1920, to indicate an impending change. However, it is also on this date in 1923 that Garrett Morgan's patent emerges, adding to the historical puzzle.Policeman William Potts engineered the first three-color traffic signals to address Detroit's early automotive era. Red light violations became increasingly problematic due to congested streets filled with cars, horses, and carts. Officer Potts introduced an intermediate warning phase now universally recognized as the yellow light. This innovation was subsequently integrated into global traffic systems.Today Commemorates a century since Garrett Morgan's patent for his traffic signal—a precursor featuring a cautionary phase allowing all directions to stop—highlights this enduring challenge. Morgan's innovation aimed to curb impatience among m
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Farewell to Edsel: A Mosaic of Memories as the Curtain Falls 291s
19/11/2023 Duration: 05min"Farewell to Edsel: A Mosaic of Memories as the Curtain Falls"In the quiet corridors of automotive history, a chapter comes to a close as we bid a poignant farewell to Edsel, the once-bold venture that dared to dream in hues of innovation and elegance. Like a vibrant mural fading with time, the final strokes of Edsel's narrative evoke a spectrum of emotions, from nostalgia to a tinge of melancholy.As the sun sets on this automotive icon, we are reminded of the kaleidoscope of aspirations that painted its inception. Named after Edsel Ford, the son of the legendary Henry Ford, the brand emerged in the late 1950s with a promise to redefine the driving experience. From the outset, Edsel was conceived as an embodiment of American optimism, with sleek designs and cutting-edge features destined to captivate the hearts of a burgeoning post-war society.Picture the showroom floors, once aglow with the radiant sheen of chrome and the lustrous curves of Edsel's signature grille. Rows of cars, each a canvas of craftsmansh
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DeSoto's Legacy: Triumph and Demise November 18 1960 290s
18/11/2023 Duration: 04minDeSoto's Legacy: Triumph and Demise November 18 1960As the sun dipped low, casting its final rays upon the DeSoto Automobile Company, the twilight of an era approached, leaving in its wake a legacy that once roared with the vibrant promise of American automotive ingenuity. The tale of DeSoto's demise is one of triumph and tribulation, of a shifting landscape within the industry.Chrysler thrust DeSoto on the automotive landscape in 1928, DeSoto filled the void between modest Plymouths and opulent Chryslers. Inspired by Spanish explorer Hernando DeSoto, the brand swiftly gained traction with its eye-catching designs and groundbreaking features. In the 1930s and 40s, DeSoto pioneered innovations futuristic designs like the Airflow – initially met with skepticism, it later propelled aerodynamic advancements in the industry.Post-World War II, DeSoto surfed the crest of an economic boom. The 1950s witnessed the birth of iconic models like the Firedome and Adventurer, encapsulating an optimistic and prosperous Ameri
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The Day All Sportscars Became Red, The Birth of Ferrari 289s
17/11/2023 Duration: 04minBirth of Scuderia Ferrari November 16In the heart of Italy, on this day, November 16th, 1929, the racing legacy of Scuderia Ferrari was born. A tapestry of roaring engines and burning passion unfurled, weaving one of the most storied and triumphant chapters in motorsports history.The roots of Scuderia Ferrari burrow deep into the zeal and vision of its founder, Enzo Ferrari. Born in 1898, Enzo's soul was intertwined with cars and racing from his earliest memories. His automotive odyssey ignited as a test driver for a humble automobile manufacturer. Yet it was his time with Alfa Romeo in the 20s that molded his destiny.Enzo swiftly garnered a reputation as a masterful racer and shrewd businessman. In 1929, he established Scuderia Ferrari initially as Alfa Romeo's racing division. The term "Scuderia" translates to "stable" in Italian, underlining the team's dedication to stable and competitive racing.Under the banner of Scuderia Ferrari, Enzo helmed Alfa Romeo's racing endeavors, amassing a legion of gifted dri
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Riker's Electric Torpedo: A Racing Legacy 288s
16/11/2023 Duration: 04minRiker's Electric Torpedo: A Racing LegacyIn 1901, the Riker Torpedo Race Car bolted onto the scene, a testament to the genius of its creator, Andrew Riker. An early believer in electric vehicles, Riker designed this battery-powered speed demon that would go on to shatter world records.On November 16, 1901, at Coney Island, New York, the Torpedo Racer zipped down a one-mile dirt track, reaching an astonishing 57.1 mph. In that moment, it claimed the title of the world’s fastest electric car and held it for an entire decade.Unlike many electric cars emerging during that era, Riker's focus was not solely on creating a personal car for the masses but rather on harnessing the allure of speed and power that captivated automotive enthusiasts. He crafted not just electric cars but electric race cars, securing his company's lead in the market and earning glory in both long-distance and short-track races.Born in New York City on October 22, 1868, Riker's journey began with the Riker Electric Motor Company in 1888 befor
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Revolutionary EV1: Igniting Change 287s
15/11/2023 Duration: 03minRevolutionary EV1: Igniting Change November 15As the late 1990s saw a surge in concerns over environmental sustainability and the impact of traditional automobiles, General Motors boldly embarked on a revolutionary journey with the introduction of the EV1—an electric vehicle marking a significant milestone in automotive history. Launched November 14, 1996, the EV1 was far more than just a car; it was a daring statement about the future of transportation.In an era when electric vehicles were mere fledglings, GM seized the reins, crafting a car that challenged the status quo and carved a path toward a greener automotive future. The EV1's design and technology were undeniably ahead of their time. Its sleek aerodynamic body resembled a futuristic two-seater coupe, while its lightweight aluminum frame bolstered efficiency. Equipped with advanced features such as regenerative braking, which transformed kinetic energy back into electricity to extend its range, the EV1's electric motor delivered impressive accelerati
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This and That Ep286
14/11/2023 Duration: 42minRam Dakota- Haven't we heard this line before?Folding Honda Electric "Scooter" Do you want one?Another Delorean. This time with the GTO suffixWolf of Wall Street Wrecked Lambo What is worth and what is worth to you? ANd is it a car or art at this point?www.nodrivingloves.com#cars #car #collectorcars #oldcars #cartalk #electriccars #ev #hotrod #carhistory #automotivehistory #automobile #thisdayinautomotivehistory #thisdayinhistory #classiccars #onthisday #NaPodPoMo #ithappenedtoday #delorean #Dakota #Dodge #Ram #wolfofwallstreet #lamborghini
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Ford Gets 'Dodge'd Ep285s
14/11/2023 Duration: 04minDodge Brothers: Automotive Pioneers Nov 14, 1914Born in Niles, Michigan, John and Horace Dodge blossomed into craftsmen renowned for their dedication to quality and excellence in the automotive realm. In the early 1900s, the name Dodge seeped into American households like a sweet perfume. Born in Niles, Michigan, John and Horace Dodge were pioneers, setting America's wheels in motion during the dawn of automotive manufacturing. In 1900, Detroit bloomed like a mechanical rose as industries converged, and the brothers established a modest machine shop.Soon their workshop expanded, bustling with 200 men, crafting the Evans and Dodge bicycle. These bicycles quenched the thirst for transportation for many. Yet the brothers' ambitions stretched further, to conquer the automobile industry.In 1902, Olds Motor Works of Detroit entrusted them with an order for 3,000 transmissions. The brothers mingled with automotive giants like Henry Leland and W.C. Leland, crafting steering parts and axles. By 1903, they abandoned bi
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Jeep- World War 2's Little Wonder 284s
13/11/2023 Duration: 04minHistoric Jeep Prototype November 13As global war loomed in 1940, the Army sought a swift reconnaissance vehicle to navigate rugged terrain and deliver firepower to the front lines. Bantam, a small and agile company experienced in building light four-cylinder cars, appeared ideal for the task. On September 23, 1940, they delivered the world's first Jeep prototype – the Bantam reconnaissance car.However, both Willys and Ford expressed interest in competing for the contract. The Army shared Bantam's designs with them, leading to Willys submitting its MA Quad on November 13 and Ford submitting two prototypes – the Pygmy GP-001 and GP-002 – on November 23.Although none of the prototypes met the Army's desired weight of less than 1,300 pounds, Ford's Pygmy introduced several innovations such as hinged headlamps for engine bay illumination and a second top bow to prevent driver discomfort. Despite their differences, all three competitors received orders for 1,500 vehicles each.Ultimately, the final standardized vers
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Merger of Equals Ep 283s
12/11/2023 Duration: 03minDaimler-Chrysler: Merger LessonsOn November 12, 1998, shareholders of automotive world voting in favor surprising union: Germany's Daimler-Benz AG and America's Chrysler Corporation merged, promising to reshape the car market's landscape. The Daimler-Chrysler alliance blended German engineering finesse with American innovation and mass appeal. Yet, this perfect union on paper became a complex, challenging journey falling short of expectations.Intending to create an automotive juggernaut, Daimler-Benz sought to tap into the American market, while Chrysler aimed to harness German technological prowess. Synergies appeared promising, but reality proved far more intricate.The primary challenge lay in clashing corporate cultures. Bridging the vast differences in management styles, communication approaches, and organizational structures proved daunting, hindering the merger's full potential. Daimler's luxury focus conflicted with Chrysler's mass appeal emphasis, rendering product integration and economies of scale u
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Jumpin' General EP 282s Dukes of Hazard
11/11/2023 Duration: 03minGeneral Lee's Iconic First JumpOn November 11th, 1978, during the filming of One-Armed Bandits, a stuntman launched the iconic General Lee off a makeshift dirt ramp and over a police car on the Georgia set of The Dukes of Hazzard, TV history was made. This 16-foot-high and 82-foot-long leap resulted in a totaled car but secured its place in every episode's opening credits.As countless stunts unfolded on screen, nearly every car met its demise, prompting prop masters to scour the country for every 1969 Dodge Charger they could find. Outfitted with roll cages, nose-mounted push bars, and upgraded suspensions, these cars braced themselves for inevitable landings. Brakes were tampered with to perfect the 180-degree bootlegger's turn, while concrete or lead-filled trunks prevented mid-air flips.Despite these reinforcements, landing those jumps must have been a jarring experience for the stunt drivers – let alone Bo, Luke, Daisy, or dear old Uncle Jesse.This orange Charger – adorned with "01" on its doors, a Confe
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Birth of the First Motorcycle, Maybe Ep281s
10/11/2023 Duration: 04minBirth of the First Motorcycle- Episode 281In 1885, the Reitwagen, or "riding car," emerged as the first motorcycle, a creation of Gottlieb Daimler and Wilhelm Maybach. Despite earlier steam-powered two-wheelers like the Michoud-Péry and Roper of 1867-1869 and the 1884 Copeland, Daimler's invention earned him the title of "father of the motorcycle."The Reitwagen's claim to being the first motorcycle hinges on its internal combustion engine. The Oxford English Dictionary uses this criteria, but some argue that its four wheels instead of two raise doubts. These outriggers, acting as auxiliary stabilizers, point to a deeper issue: Daimler's invention needed training wheels due to lacking well-understood principles of rake and trail.The Reitwagen's engine was a compact high-speed single-cylinder model patented in 1885 as the "grandfather clock engine." It featured a float-metered carburetor, mushroom intake valves, hot tube ignition, twin flywheels, and an aluminum crankcase. With its 264 cubic centimeter engine m
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McNamara's Impact on Ford 280s
09/11/2023 Duration: 03minEpisode 280s McNamara's Impact on Ford In 1946, as Henry Ford II grappled with the chaos his grandfather had left behind, the company lost a staggering $85 million (about $1.4 Billion today) within eight months. Enter Robert S. McNamara, the brightest star among the Whiz Kids – a group of ten highly educated and ambitious men who had worked together in the U.S. Army's Air Force. Together, they breathed new life into Ford Motor Company.Did Henry Ford II seek the brilliance of General Motors' Alfred P. Sloan when he named Robert S. McNamara as president of Ford Motor Company? As GM's dominance grew in the 1920s and '30s, Ford aspired to surpass them. McNamara, a non-Ford family member, infused modernity into the company like an invigorating breath of fresh air. However, while Sloan sculpted the contemporary automotive corporation, McNamara embodied a sterile, numbers-driven manager.Both Sloan and McNamara were modern managers; however, McNamara was cold and distant—a bean counter who prioritized statistical ana