Government Wants You to Drive Less, Ram Wants 777 HP | The Drive Ep. 51

Episode 51 of The Drive with Lauren and Karl examines mileage-based road charges, rising vehicle prices, Ram’s 777-horsepower Rumble Bee, vehicle longevity and the future of gasoline prices.

What happens when government transportation policies encourage Americans to drive less while automakers compete to build increasingly powerful trucks? Lauren Fix and Karl Brauer explore that contrast and the latest developments shaping the automotive industry.

From new-car sales and road-funding proposals to Ram’s ambitious product plans, Episode 51 covers the automotive headlines affecting drivers, manufacturers and car owners.

New-Car Sales Approach 16 Million as Prices Remain High

New-vehicle sales are tracking toward approximately 16 million units in 2026, even as average transaction prices hover around $50,000.

The Honda CR-V is outselling the Ram 1500 so far this year, while Toyota works through the transition to its all-new 2026 RAV4.

Lauren Fix and Karl Brauer discuss what these sales trends reveal about consumer demand, vehicle affordability and the changing automotive market.

Ram Rumble Bee Targets 777 Horsepower

Ram is preparing an aggressive product expansion as Stellantis seeks to significantly increase the brand’s sales by 2030.

Among the anticipated developments is a high-performance Ram Rumble Bee targeting an impressive 777 horsepower.

The discussion also covers Ram’s planned midsize Dakota pickup and the larger Ramcharger SUV, highlighting the brand’s efforts to expand its truck and SUV offerings.

Mileage-Based Road Charges: Are Drivers Facing New Taxes?

Transportation funding is another major topic in Episode 51.

New York’s transportation goals for 2050 and Michigan’s ongoing road-usage charge study raise questions about how governments will fund infrastructure as vehicle technology and fuel consumption change.

Michigan is examining mileage-based road charges as a potential alternative to traditional fuel taxes.

Lauren and Karl discuss what these proposals could mean for drivers, vehicle ownership costs and the future of transportation funding.

Which Vehicles Are Built to Last?

Vehicle longevity is increasingly important as new-car prices remain elevated.

The hosts examine findings from iSeeCars identifying vehicles known for their long-term durability and discuss what buyers should consider when choosing a vehicle designed to last.

The episode also explores whether gasoline prices could realistically return to $2 per gallon.

Coastal Car Owners Face Corrosion Risks

Living near the coast presents another challenge for vehicle owners.

Salt air can accelerate corrosion on exposed metal, potentially damaging vehicle components and affecting long-term condition.

Lauren Fix explains why protecting vehicles from environmental exposure is important for maintaining their appearance and longevity.

Watch The Drive With Lauren and Karl, Episode 51

From government transportation policies and rising vehicle prices to Ram’s 777-horsepower plans, Episode 51 delivers a wide-ranging look at the automotive industry.

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