Jonathan Ward

Date: 2020-03-18 | Duration: 2h 19m

Episode Overview

Jonathan Ward dives deep into the world of automotive restoration and design, sharing his passion for reviving vintage vehicles with a modern twist. He discusses his unique approach to rebuilding classic cars, emphasizing craftsmanship, authenticity, and driving experience over mere aesthetics. Ward highlights his “derelict” philosophy—preserving the worn, lived-in character of old cars while upgrading their performance and reliability. He also touches on the challenges of sourcing rare parts and the obsessive attention to detail required to bring these projects to life. The conversation shifts to the evolving landscape of automotive technology, particularly the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and their impact on classic car culture. Ward expresses skepticism about some EV startups and retrofit companies, stressing the importance of thoughtful engineering and thermal management in battery systems. He predicts that electric drivetrains will become a significant part of his business in the near future, blending tradition with innovation. Additionally, Ward shares candid stories about navigating regulatory hurdles, labor issues, and the complexities of running a boutique automotive shop in today’s market, offering a rare glimpse into the intersection of passion, business, and craftsmanship.

About Jonathan Ward

Jonathan Ward is the visionary owner of ICON, a groundbreaking company renowned for its coach-built premium automobiles that blend classic design with modern engineering. With a background in industrial design, Ward has transformed the automotive landscape, creating bespoke vehicles that are not only aesthetically stunning but also environmentally conscious, incorporating sustainable materials and advanced technology. His innovative approach has earned ICON a loyal following among car enthusiasts and collectors alike, making Ward a prominent figure in the automotive industry. Known for his passion and craftsmanship, he continues to push the boundaries of traditional car manufacturing, captivating audiences with his unique vision for the future of driving.

Key Moments

– Automotive Design
– Classic Cars
– Car Restoration
– Electric Vehicles
– Car Engineering
– Automotive Manufacturing
– Automotive History
– Car Culture
– Vehicle Retrofitting
– Automotive Technology
– Motorsports
– Automotive Legislation
– Automotive Materials
– Watch Collecting
– Public Health
– Homelessness
– Small Business Challenges
– Creative Entrepreneurship
– Podcasting
– Sustainable Transportation
0:00:00 – Introduction and early automotive interests
0:03:04 – Redesigning car interiors for better driving
0:07:23 – Sourcing unusual automotive parts
0:09:06 – Historic race data and photography discussion
0:11:17 – Passion for vintage and rare cars
0:15:19 – Iconic car shapes like the 1969 Camaro
0:18:12 – Revology and replica car manufacturing
0:22:31 – Experience driving a Tesla and electric range
0:24:30 – Derelict car restoration philosophy
0:26:27 – Engine choices and performance upgrades
0:29:10 – Importance of passion in car building
0:32:07 – Research and development projects in automotive
0:36:14 – Retrofitting classic cars with modern ABS
0:39:03 – Driving experiences and car uniqueness
0:42:35 – Memories of owning exotic cars like Countach
0:45:17 – Watch collecting and mechanical quartz technology
0:49:00 – Luxury watch market challenges and storytelling
0:54:02 – Upcoming affordable electric vehicles from Volkswagen
0:57:46 – Electric vehicle startups and fleet contracts
1:00:02 – Movement Motors and BMW retrofit projects
1:03:18 – Continuous upgrades as automotive sciences evolve
1:06:14 – Challenges with innovative engine technologies
1:10:19 – Discussion on conspiracy theories and industry secrets
1:14:05 – Documentary 'Who Killed the Electric Car?' analysis
1:16:25 – Hemp fiber car prototypes and structural innovations
1:21:21 – Lotus brand status and car shows
1:24:03 – Finding skilled artisans for car building
1:26:56 – Zoning challenges for automotive workshops
1:29:01 – Labor costs and industry frustrations
1:32:43 – Health struggles and personal challenges
1:38:43 – Homelessness and public policy issues
1:41:18 – Ideas for hybrid legal defense and education
1:44:44 – CBD and alternative health treatments
1:48:16 – Importance of diet, exercise, and well-being
1:53:14 – Root causes of societal challenges
1:56:06 – Balancing family time and creative work
2:03:27 – Organic growth of creative enterprises
2:10:05 – Passion as the foundation of success
2:14:38 – Infrastructure challenges in automotive innovation
2:15:36 – Closing remarks and encouragement

Transcript Excerpt

Starting point is 00:00:00 One. Starting point is 00:00:19 How are you tying that one up? Starting point is 00:00:38 And I've done various deep dives throughout my life into, like, all sorts of different art forms. In fact, the reason automotive design became my thing and turned into a business was because my hobbies of Starting point is 00:01:28 and in Morocco and Mexico. Starting point is 00:01:56 And there's something about just literally putting on your podcast, going in my spare bedroom at Starting point is 00:02:39 level and with an obsessiveness that is, to me, deserves to be rewarded. Starting point is 00:03:04 And you just redo the insides so that you can drive them really well. Starting point is 00:03:36 And then there's modern cars, like 90s cars I'm cool with. Starting point is 00:03:55 What a shit show, man. Starting point is 00:04:13 You know, that video got like a half a million views in like half a day. Starting point is 00:04:31 And the client came to me with, like, a pretty direct and simple mandate. Starting point is 00:04:52 You guys had that thing for a long time. Starting point is 00:05:23 What kind of engine does that thing have? Starting point is 00:05:56 That's what I like. Starting point is 00:06:29 Now, I may want to elevate that and geek out on it and do unnecessarily cool shit that the production car company wouldn't have done. Starting point is 00:06:57 Yeah, it's one of those things where just some people have too much money. Starting point is 00:07:17 Yeah. Starting point is 00:07:23 I love all the weird sourcing you do. And I'm like, well, how weird do you want it to be? It's so disgusting. It is. I don't know why. He loves it. He's like, where can I get some really weird stuff? I love all the weird sourcing you do. Starting point is 00:07:36 Yeah, it's foul. Starting point is 00:07:47 I mean, it's like an amphibious car. Starting point is 00:08:08 That way Starting point is 00:08:24 Where are the lawyers Why are you trusting these p...

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Who was the guest on Joe Rogan Experience #1443?

Jonathan Ward was the guest on JRE #1443. This page includes the episode overview, topics discussed, and related resources.

What topics were discussed on JRE #1443?

On Joe Rogan Experience #1443 with Jonathan Ward, topics include Automotive Design, Classic Cars, Car Restoration, and Electric Vehicles.

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