Donut Media is an automotive entertainment YouTube channel (7+ million subscribers) known for educational series, build projects, and high-energy hosts James Pumphrey, Nolan Sykes, and Jeremiah Burton.
Signature Series
Up to Speed — James Pumphrey screams automotive history for iconic cars and brands in 10-15 minute episodes. His catchphrase “LIGHTNING LIGHTNING LIGHTNING!” and manic energy made the series viral.
Science Garage — Jeremiah Burton explains engineering concepts (turbos, differentials, suspensions) with animations and whiteboard diagrams.
Money Pit / Hi-Low — Build series comparing cheap vs. expensive modifications on identical cars (Miatas, Civics, WRXs, E36 BMWs). Viewers learn whether $200 coilovers perform near $2,000 units.
Bumper 2 Bumper — Deep dives into specific vehicles, reviewing every feature and modification potential.
Catchphrases and Memes
- “Mo’ powa babeh!” (James Pumphrey’s horsepower obsession)
- “Pop-up up and down headlights!” (delivered with manic glee)
- “HRSPRS” (horsepower abbreviated)
- “Triangles!” (explaining suspension geometry)
Recurrent Ventures Acquisition
In 2021, Donut was acquired by Recurrent Ventures (owner of The Drive, Car Bibles), leading to increased production budgets but fan concerns about corporate influence diluting authenticity.
Cultural Impact
Donut made automotive knowledge accessible to Gen Z and millennials through humor, memes, and production quality matching entertainment channels, not stuffy car journalism.
Sources:
- Donut Media YouTube: http://web.archive.org/web/20230411061148/https://www.youtube.com/@DonutMedia
- Up to Speed playlist: 140+ episodes covering brands, models, legends