Kill Switches, Michelin Tires, and China’s Car Collapse

Kill Switches, Michelin Tires, and China’s Car Collapse

From The Drive Car Show by The Drive with Lauren & Karl

May 23, 2026 · 39 min · Season 1 · Episode 33

About this episode

The episode discusses the changing automotive market, vehicle longevity, and the implications of new technologies and industry shifts.

Episode 33 of The Drive with Lauren Fix and Karl Brauer. This week, Lauren and Karl are joined by special guest Jordan Dotson, Michelin Tire Brand Manager, for an in-depth conversation about today’s changing automotive market, vehicle longevity, premium tires, and what drivers can expect in the years ahead. In this episode: Why more Americans are keeping their vehicles longer than ever, and how premium tire technology plays a major role in extending vehicle life. What high new vehicle prices mean for automakers, consumers, and the future of car ownership. Michelin’s newest tires for both the new and used vehicles, plus how the Michelin Promise Plan is designed to build long-term customer confidence and will save you money. The latest developments surrounding connected car technology and the growing concerns over vehicle “kill switch” systems, including whether consumers should avoid certain new vehicles and if these systems can be disabled after purchase. China’s auto industry may be facing a major shakeup as BYD profits plunge amid aggressive EV price wars. Is a major industry reset coming? Karl Brauer reviews the Aston Martin DB12 S and explains what makes this high-performance…

People in this episode

Hosts: Lauren Fix, Karl Brauer

Guest: Jordan Dotson

Topics covered

  • automotive market changes
  • vehicle longevity
  • premium tire technology
  • connected car technology
  • kill switch systems
  • China's auto industry
  • EV price wars

Keywords

  • automotive news
  • premium tires
  • vehicle ownership
  • connected cars
  • kill switches
  • China auto industry
  • EV market

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Michelin, BYD

Products: Aston Martin DB12 S

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