Health What if cars could stop you from driving drunk? A peek at the latest tech A new federal law will eventually require new vehicles to detect and prevent drunk driving, which would revolutionize vehicle safety. Here's a look at some of the technology being developed. Camila Domonoske
Business Giving up gas-powered cars was a fringe idea. It's now on its way to reality In just a few years, phasing out gas-powered cars has gone from fringe idea to mainstream policy proposal. It's still a long way from being reality, but the sense of urgency is accelerating. Camila Domonoske
Business The electric startup Rivian soared in its stock debut. Why there's so much buzz Rivian, which has just started deliveries of its battery-powered pickup truck, surged in its first day of trade after completing one of the biggest IPOs in U.S. history. Camila Domonoske
Science There's no concrete solution for roads buckling in the heat... it's actually asphalt This heatwave has been trouble for our roads. Stretches of I-5 have actually buckled, a stunning sight in the Pacific Northwest. But as odd as this may sound, stretches of I-5 actually buckled at the best time. Katie Campbell Noel Gasca
Crime Who is stealing catalytic converters in Seattle, and what are they doing with them? Catalytic converter theft is up more than 3,800% this year over last in Seattle and King County. Brandi Fullwood
Washington lawmakers consider shifting all new car sales to electric-only by 2030 You may be used to hearing a pushy car salesperson say, "What can I do to get you in this car?" But one big thing could be different in Washington state... Tom Banse
Environment Pandemic Drastically Cut Emissions From Cars. The Lone Exception? SUVs In rich countries, every sector of the economy reduced its contribution to climate change last year — with one big gas-guzzling exception. Camila Domonoske
Health CDC Now Recommends Driving Alone. But What If You Don't Have A Car? Some people who are carless by choice find themselves reassessing that decision. And those who can't afford cars face increased risks, in yet another example of the pandemic exacerbating inequalities. Camila Domonoske
Arts & Life What’s with Seattle bumper stickers these days? On this episode a listener asks us to explore the patterns and messages of bumper stickers in the Pacific Northwest. But there’s a personal reason she wants to better understand Seattle’s bumper sticker culture. Deborah Wang Kyle Norris
5 Tips For Buying A Car The Smart Way So you're thinking about buying a new car? NPR's Life Kit has your back. Here are the most important things to know so you don't get in over your head or let a car dealer take advantage of you. Chris Arnold