In this podcast episode, the two hosts Tarik and Jonas - well-known YouTubers from the electric car scene - take center stage with their usual relaxed and informative manner.
Jonas and Tarik soon turn to the core topics of the episode. One focus is the frustrating way some car manufacturers deal with YouTubers - keyword "second-class YouTuber". They discuss embargoes and unfair conditions at vehicle premieres in detail, backed up by concrete examples such as the launch of the new Smart #5 and a missed invitation to a Zeekr event. The presenters don't mince their words, but also put things into perspective with understanding where appropriate. In addition to media topics, the cars themselves are of course not neglected: current models such as Mazda's new electric model "6e" and the brand new Skoda "Elroq" are discussed. And as a special highlight, Jonas reveals that he has ordered a new car. Although he is still keeping the exact choice a secret, he gives exciting insights into his thoughts and arouses the listeners' curiosity. All in all, listeners can expect an entertaining mix of personal exchanges, critical insights into the industry and expert discussions about cars.
Key Takeaways
- Tarik starts with an unusual apology: He had neglected to comment quickly under Jonas' new YouTube video for the first time - something many regular viewers apparently pay attention to. In fact, fans jokingly asked why his comment was missing, which Jonas found so amusing that he sent Tarik a screenshot of it. This episode shows how closely and attentively the community follows the two and underlines the hosts' humorous interaction with each other.
- The private life is not neglected either: Tarik reports that his partner (called "Nas") was suffering from back pain, which is why he spontaneously took her on a trip to Maastricht - her favorite city. Despite the joking remark about whether driving really helps with back problems, they enjoyed a lovely day and even met fans on the way: a listener recognized them and took a selfie, and a well-known motoring journalist ("Sven from the Autozeitung") tried to make contact as they passed by. This anecdote gives the episode a personal touch and shows the down-to-earth nature of the hosts, who are also recognized and appreciated away from the camera and microphone.
- A central theme of the episode is the frustration about their status as "second-class YouTubers" compared to the car industry. Jonas and Tarik feel less valued by some manufacturers than traditional media - for example, when they are only invited late or not at all to premieres or have to work under unfavorable conditions. They describe in clear terms (including strong language) how annoyed they are when their work is affected by tight deadlines, tight time slots or poor communication.
- The example of the launch of the new Smart #5 makes this problem tangible. Although Jonas had an invitation to the preview, he canceled due to time constraints, and Tarik only received an appointment after asking himself - but only the day after the press embargo period expired. The result: other media and a YouTube colleague had already gone online with their videos the night before, so Tarik felt "taken for a ride" and canceled his 800-kilometre trip to Stuttgart at the last minute. In the end, neither presenter published their own video for Smart #5, which was also noticed by their viewers.
- Another case is an event invitation from Chinese electric car manufacturer Zeekr. Jonas asked Tarik in astonishment whether he had received the invitation to the presentation of the new model ("7X") - but Tarik came away empty-handed, even though he had been in contact with the agency responsible for months. He extensively criticizes the incompetence of some PR agencies that do not take YouTubers seriously or treat them unequally. For Tarik, it felt like déjà vu all over again: Although he and Jonas had already taken part in previous Zeekr events together and were actually on the mailing list, this time he was passed over and had to laboriously organize his own participation.
- The moderators emphasize how important fair conditions and embargo periods are for content creators. Tarik appeals directly to manufacturers (in this case Smart) to plan future events in such a way that all invited YouTubers can publish their videos at the same time - otherwise the effort would hardly be worth it. They cite Kia as a positive counter-example: for an upcoming event (test drives with the new EV6 GT and static recordings of the large EV9), all relevant YouTubers were invited and a uniform embargo was set. This gives Jonas and Tarik the opportunity to produce high-quality content without time pressure and go online with others at the same time.
- After all the media criticism, Jonas and Tarik also turn their attention to the new cars themselves - such as the Mazda "6e", which has gone under the radar in recent weeks and is now being talked about. The two are enthusiastic about the design of the electric saloon and discuss the technical data: The smaller battery variant is particularly impressive with a charging time of around 22 minutes (10-80%) thanks to 200 kW charging power, while the larger battery takes significantly longer. Their verdict: the basic model with a smaller battery is so attractive in terms of price (from around €45,000) and technology that they would recommend it to anyone - especially as Mazda scores points with its well-known beautiful paint color (Mazda red) and successful styling.
- Jonas has ordered a new car and talks about the reasons: He wants to get away from the SUV trend and has decided between three premium electric models (Audi and BMW were on the ballot). The final choice remains a secret, which makes for suspense.
- The episode thus offers both entertaining personal stories and in-depth automotive expertise. From spontaneous road trips to industry criticism and purchasing decisions - the mix keeps listeners entertained and informed in equal measure.
- Of course, there are also tangible test impressions in the episode, for example on the brand new Skoda "Elroq" (an upcoming electric compact SUV), which both presenters have already had the opportunity to try out. Jonas and Tarik compare their impressions and even the design with a competitor (the also upcoming Ford Explorer EV). Interestingly, their opinions differ: Jonas praises the sharp front of the Elroq, but is less taken with the rear, while Tarik finds the appearance from behind more successful. Such small discussions about details show the expertise of both and provide listeners with valuable initial assessments of new models.
Main content
Personal anecdotes and community interaction
To kick off the episode, Jonas and Tarik chat about personal experiences that give an insight into their close relationship with the community. Tarik laughingly reports that he has to "officially" apologize to Jonas and the listeners - for once commenting too late under Jonas' newly published YouTube video. It is normally part of the ritual for Tarik to write a comment immediately after a JÖNOHS video is released. Some fans promptly expressed their concern or even joked in the comments and asked where Tarik's reaction was. Jonas thought it was wonderful and even sent Tarik a screenshot of this fan request. Tarik, in turn, was touched and said he thought it was "so sweet of people" that viewers notice such details. This anecdote underlines with a wink how closely the community follows the two and how naturally Jonas and Tarik involve their listeners in their program.
Directly afterwards, they continue with another personal story: Tarik tells us that his partner recently had severe back problems. Without further ado, he packed her into the car on a Sunday off and took her "out early" to Maastricht - their favorite city - to do something good for her. Jonas comments dryly with a laugh, "because driving is so good when you have back pain", which reveals the ironic humor of the group. Nevertheless, the trip was good for them: they spent a lovely day in the sunshine and the YouTubers were even recognized on the way. In the podcast, Tarik warmly greets a listener named Carmen (from Neuss), who had approached her on the street with her son and asked for a photo together. A well-known motoring journalist - Sven from the Autozeitung - also ran into them by chance and later wrote to Tarik to say that he had called for him loudly, but probably not loudly enough. Moments like these show the hosts' approachable, down-to-earth nature: they share private insights, joke about everyday things and are visibly happy to connect with their fans before getting into the technical topics.
Test cars on the doorstep: VW ID.Buzz, Kia EV6 and the new Skoda Elroq
As usual, the hosts start with the section "What's on your doorstep?", i.e. the current test cars or private cars they are currently driving. Tarik admits with a wink that he has "nothing" new at the moment - apart from a fully electric VW ID.Buzz in the sporty GTX version, which he is still parking from a test. Jonas asks whether Tarik has taken the eye-catching electric bus on a trip (to Maastricht, for example), but this is not the case. Instead, Tarik tells us that he drove his own car again for a change: a Kia EV6. As press vehicles are constantly being tested, his personal car is hardly ever used: "I don't get to drive it. It's been sitting in the garage for weeks," reports Tarik. The joy of taking the EV6 out again after a long time was correspondingly great - Tarik really enthuses: "I miss my car and I still think it's beautiful." Although he secretly dreams of a used Audi e-tron GT, Tarik emphasizes that the EV6 in his preferred color and top equipment is an almost perfect electric car for him. This short everyday story shows that the hosts not only drive test cars, but are also convinced e-car drivers with favorite cars themselves.
Jonas and Tarik then talk about a vehicle that they both currently have on their doorstep: the brand new Skoda "Elroq". This is a compact electric SUV that Skoda will soon be launching on the market as a smaller addition to the Enyaq. Jonas recently had the Elroq at his disposal for a day as part of a short test (a so-called city test), while Tarik was even allowed to keep it a little longer. Accordingly, both have already been busy producing video content for their channels. In the interview, they share their first impressions and even compare the Skoda with the upcoming Ford Explorer EV. Interestingly, their opinions on the design differ slightly. One of the two thinks that the Elroq looks "really sharp" from the front - especially in white - but criticizes the rear as being too unspectacular ("too Skoda-generic" and too similar to the larger Enyaq). The other presenter sees it the other way round: he feels that the front look of the new Ford Explorer is beefier and more successful, while he praises the rear design of the Skoda - especially because the license plate is placed on the trunk lid, making the lower section look more coherent than on the Ford. However, both agree that Skoda has put together a very neat overall package with the Elroq. They have a lot of fun debating such details, which gives the audience an authentic insight into their test experiences. At the end of this segment, Jonas remarks with a wink: "I'm a second-class YouTuber at Skoda" - a joking comment that already leads to the next big topic of the episode.
Frustration over embargoes: "Second-class YouTuber"
After these relaxed opening minutes, the tone becomes more serious: Jonas and Tarik talk about their experiences as car YouTubers in dealing with manufacturer presentations. Jonas jokingly coined the term "second-class YouTuber" - an expression that the two of them used repeatedly during the discussion to describe their sometimes frustrating position in the media landscape. What is it all about? In the eyes of the hosts, freelance video creators are treated significantly worse by some car brands than established car magazines or large publishers. In concrete terms, this means that YouTubers often get access to new models later, are given stricter time limits or are not even invited to advance presentations, while traditional media can shoot in advance at their leisure. Tarik and Jonas vent their displeasure about this in the episode and choose unusually clear words. Tarik explains that he regularly experiences how the quality of all the videos produced suffers under the time pressure at press events. "You can see it in every video," he explains, listing examples: The invited YouTubers rush through their filming, footage that would otherwise be there is missing, or only a single take is created without edits - all because there is hardly any time on site. One manufacturer that Tarik explicitly criticizes in this context is Opel: he complains that Opel "can't get it together" to create reasonable conditions for creators, although he has often expressed his concerns there.
The two presenters emphasize that they naturally understand that car manufacturers can only allocate a limited number of pre-test slots. If only five vehicles are available for initial videos, twenty people cannot be invited - that makes sense to them. However, Jonas and Tarik believe that the organization should still be done in such a way that nobody feels disadvantaged. What particularly "pisses them off" (in their own words) are cases in which they are allowed to produce content, but the result has to be published under absurdly unfavorable conditions. Such experiences make them feel like second-class influencers compared to colleagues from large media companies. This frustration is a recurring theme throughout much of the episode and leads to specific example stories that illustrate the problem.
Case study 1 - Smart #5: When YouTubers are late
Jonas and Tarik underline their displeasure at such unequal treatment with a specific experience surrounding the premiere of the new Smart #5. This electric SUV model was recently presented to media representatives. Jonas had originally received an invitation, but decided not to attend any press appointments in March - for private and scheduling reasons, he let it pass. Tarik, on the other hand, was initially left empty-handed: Although he was in loose contact with Smart's press department (or rather press spokesman Wolfgang Ufer), he did not receive an official invitation. Only when he asked himself - Tarik wrote directly to Wolfgang - was he also offered a slot at short notice. Wolfgang responded in a friendly manner and invited Tarik to Stuttgart for the coming Saturday, adding with a wink in his email that he thought Tarik's videos were "not bad at all". Tarik gladly accepted the opportunity and was "totally looking forward to hashtag 5", as he recounts in the podcast. Both hosts could have got the Smart in front of the lens on the same day (Saturday) - Jonas nevertheless decided to stay away due to his busy March agenda, while Tarik had firmly planned the trip and even had a video in mind.
But then everything turned out differently: the first videos of Smart #5 appeared online on Friday evening - before Tarik could even get into the car. The press embargo period was apparently only set until midnight on Friday, so a number of reviews went live at midnight. On Saturday morning, Tarik discovered the video of a YouTube colleague (he mentions "the Chris", meaning a well-known electric mobility YouTuber) as well as contributions from major editorial offices such as Auto Bild and Auto Motor und Sport. This would have made his own shoot on Saturday de facto obsolete - the online world was already served. Tarik understandably felt duped: "I feel like such a fool. I feel so stupid!" was his conclusion in the podcast. Without further ado, he canceled his appointment on Saturday morning, not without coming up with a sarcastic explanation: "I suddenly developed severe back pain," he wrote to the agency, accompanied by the comment that he unfortunately couldn't come with a headache. In fact, he would have had to travel over 800 km (there and back) - without an overnight stay and without reimbursement of travel expenses - for a 45-minute viewing slot, the result of which (the video) would have already "run five times before him" at this point, as Tarik calculates. He decided it wasn't worth the effort and stayed at home. In the end, both Tarik and Jonas decided not to make their own Smart #5 video. Their fans were quick to note that there was no review from their favorite YouTubers this time. This example vividly illustrates why Jonas and Tarik sometimes feel like second-class influencers: They were clearly only considered in the second wave here and were unable - or unwilling - to provide a fair output under these conditions.
Case study 2 - Zeekr 7X: Overlooked from the invite list
A second example backs up Jonas' and Tarik's "second class" thesis: the communication breakdown surrounding an event organized by Chinese electric car manufacturer Zeekr. A few weeks ago, Jonas wrote Tarik a surprising message: "Hey Tarik, did you get the invitation from Zeekr for the 7X?" - on the firm assumption that Tarik must have been invited just like himself. Tarik's sobering answer: No, he hadn't received an invitation at all. This discovery left both of them shaking their heads. Tarik felt confirmed once again that those responsible had simply ignored him. What was particularly annoying was that he had been in contact with Zeekr's PR agency for months and had even proactively asked when presentations were planned in Germany. He was repeatedly assured that he would of course be involved as soon as the time was right. And yet: when things got serious - in this case the exclusive presentation of the new "7X" model at the end of March - the official invitation only went to Jonas and apparently not to Tarik.
In the podcast, Tarik gives free rein to his anger about this. Without naming names, he sharply criticizes the agency employee responsible and accuses him of incompetence in dealing with YouTubers. He tells the listeners in detail how he had been emailing for months ("When are you presenting the 7X? When will it start in Germany?") and was repeatedly put off. The disappointment was all the greater when Zeekr sent out the invitations and Tarik received none - despite all his assurances. This seemed particularly absurd to the two hosts because Jonas and Tarik have actually been on Zeekr's radar for a long time: They were invited together to a Zeekr event in Stockholm last year, where they were presented with two models - the Zeekr X and the 001 - along with other colleagues (including a YouTuber called Nas and influencer Sarah). This meeting was actually the first time that Jonas and Tarik met in person. Since then, they have been considered part of the press distribution list. The fact that Tarik was now overlooked for the new 7X model, even though Jonas was there, is seen by both as a classic example of uncoordinated and unfair invitation management. For Tarik, this experience fits in seamlessly with the feeling of not being taken fully seriously by some manufacturers. Although he was ultimately able to obtain the information about the Zeekr 7X elsewhere, the uneasy feeling remains: Differences have obviously been made here - exactly what Jonas and Tarik are criticizing.
Mazda 6e: Subsequent discussion on the new electric saloon
After the extensive media topic block, Jonas and Tarik turn their attention to another current car newcomer that they had neglected to discuss in detail in the previous weeks: the Mazda 6e. This is Mazda's first all-electric sedan model, the electric version of the well-known Mazda6, so to speak. Jonas and Tarik catch up on the missed discussion and are impressed by the vehicle - especially its looks. the 6e is "visually beautiful", enthuses Jonas, and Tarik agrees. The rear lights and the sporty rear end in particular have a touch of Italian style ("almost Alfa Romeo-like"), including a discreet spoiler in body color. Mazda has done a lot right here in terms of design and of course also offers the car in its famous metallic red, which the presenters emphasize as a real eye-catcher.
However, it is not only the design, but also the technical data of the Mazda 6e that is causing a stir. The model is available with two battery sizes, and Jonas and Tarik compare the variants in detail - with an unexpectedly clear favorite. The smaller battery version (approx. 70 kWh capacity) scores with a remarkably short charging time: thanks to a charging capacity of up to 200 kW, it is said to charge from 10% to 80% in just around 22 minutes. This version is also cheaper and, according to the announcement, is available from around 45,000 euros. The larger battery, on the other hand, offers more range, but takes almost twice as long to charge (just under 50 minutes for 10-80%) and pushes the price up to around 48,000 euros. From the hosts' point of view, it therefore "makes no sense at all to take the large battery". Tarik emphasizes that he would spontaneously advise anyone interested to go for the cheaper version, as it offers a much better overall package in terms of price and performance. This is an interesting twist for Mazda fans, as the entry-level model is rarely so clearly recommended. Jonas and Tarik are pleased that Mazda has apparently succeeded in creating a convincing electric car with the 6e. Although they have not yet been able to test it themselves, they are happy to refer to initial video reports from colleagues and are eager to drive the vehicle themselves when the opportunity arises.
Jonas' new car: farewell to the SUV, suspense until the denouement
Towards the end of the episode, Jonas announces some big personal news: He has ordered a new car. He expressly emphasizes that it will not be an SUV - on the contrary, he wants to consciously turn his back on the SUV trend. "Everyone wants SUVs, everyone buys SUVs - but I don't anymore!" he explains pointedly. Jonas had been toying with the idea of a sportier, flatter electric saloon for some time, but now he has decided to go for it. Three models were shortlisted: Firstly, Audi's upcoming A6 e-tron electric saloon, secondly the already available, very dynamic Audi e-tron GT (a kind of electric Audi in the tradition of the A7) - and thirdly the brand new BMW i5, the electric version of the BMW 5 Series. It was clearly not easy for Jonas to decide between these three premium e-cars. He and Tarik agree that all three are "mega" - they have already tested or test-driven each of the models themselves and were impressed by each one. Nevertheless, Jonas has chosen his favorite and signed with the dealer (a detail he throws in as a hint: the car was ordered in the classic way at the dealership, not online).
However, Jonas doesn't reveal exactly which model it is in this episode. Tarik already knows (Jonas sent him a photo of the signed purchase contract on the day of the order), but he keeps mum in the podcast. When Tarik jokingly hints at revealing the brand, Jonas jokingly interjects: "No, no way - are you crazy!" The two agree to keep the resolution a secret and involve the community instead. With a wink, Jonas asks listeners to guess which car he has ordered in the comments. Delivery is planned for mid-November - which is exactly when Jonas' current company car expires. The presenters promise to evaluate the fans' tips upon delivery and find out who was right. Until then, this mystery is a source of anticipation and conversation among the listeners - a successful cliffhanger at the end of a content-rich episode.
Conclusion
This 33rd episode of "Die Kilometerfresser" offers a successful mix of entertainment, insider insights and technical information. Jonas and Tarik manage to make their audience both laugh and think: on the one hand, they share humorous stories from their everyday lives and demonstrate their down-to-earth approach to fans; on the other, they don't mince their words when it comes to problems in the industry. The openness with which they talk about topics such as embargoes, invitation management and the status of YouTubers is likely to be enlightening for many listeners. You gain a better understanding of how much effort and sometimes frustration is behind the shiny YouTube car videos. At the same time, the two also deliver what their community appreciates them for: genuine enthusiasm for cars and well-founded assessments of new models. Whether spontaneously comparing the Skoda Elroq with the Ford Explorer or analyzing the Mazda 6e - the hosts demonstrate their expertise and show their attention to detail.
This episode is particularly valuable for listeners because it brings them even closer to the people behind the YouTube channels while also covering current car topics. You almost feel like you're sitting at the regulars' table with Jonas and Tarik: Personal anecdotes, honest opinions and expert discussions balance each other out. In addition, the two actively involve their fans - for example by playing a guessing game about Jonas' new car - and thus strengthen the sense of community. The outlook for the coming months is also exciting: listeners will find out which car Jonas has chosen as soon as the big unveiling is due. It will also be interesting to see how the problems mentioned with press appointments and embargoes develop - perhaps Jonas' and Tarik's words will help manufacturers to work even better with independent creators in future. Overall, the episode "YouTuber 2nd class + Jonas' new car" leaves a lasting impression and delivers exactly what regular listeners expect: authentic, casually presented automotive journalism with heart and mind. We are already looking forward to the next round with the Kilometerfressers.