Branden Flasch, formerly known as "EV Nomads," is a seasoned voice in the electric vehicle community. With extensive personal experience driving a range of EVs, including the Tesla Model Y, Ford F150 Lightning, Tesla Model S, VW ID.4, and more, Flasch brings a deep understanding of the electric driving landscape.
This distributor specializes in sharing insights on new EV models, the nuances of EV charging, and practical advice for electric vehicle travel. Leveraging years of hands-on experience and professional involvement in the EV charging industry, Branden Flasch offers a knowledgeable and engaging perspective for EV enthusiasts and those considering the transition to electric mobility.
This distributor specializes in sharing insights on new EV models, the nuances of EV charging, and practical advice for electric vehicle travel. Leveraging years of hands-on experience and professional involvement in the EV charging industry, Branden Flasch offers a knowledgeable and engaging perspective for EV enthusiasts and those considering the transition to electric mobility.
Farewell ID.4 - The Truth About The VW ID.4 After 1 Year and 16k Miles
After one year and 16,000 miles, the reviewer concludes that the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S RWD, while possessing good hardware and offering a comfortable ride suitable for long distances, is significantly let down by its software. Key criticisms include the lack of one-pedal driving, the absence...
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Very Efficient! Full To Dead 70MPH Range Test In Tesla's Longest Range And Cheapest 2025 Model Y!
The reviewer conducted a 70 mph range test on the 2025 Tesla Model Y Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive, aiming for a full-to-empty battery depletion. The te... morest yielded a real-world range of approximately 293 miles, falling slightly short of the reviewer's initial prediction of over 300 miles. While this is considered a solid result, the reviewer noted a significant ~80-mile difference compared to the Model 3 Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive, attributing it to the Model Y's larger frontal area and potentially less aerodynamic design. The reviewer also highlighted that cold weather and driving conditions increased consumption by 4.3% compared to optimal conditions. Despite the range falling slightly short of expectations, the reviewer expressed hope for future improvements in the Model Y's aerodynamic efficiency or battery capacity, suggesting these are needed for this model. less
Blown Away! Driving And Parking Itself! Tesla Full Self Driving 13.2.2.1 Stress Test in 2025 Model Y
The reviewer puts Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) 13.2.2.1 to a rigorous stress test in a 2025 Model Y, starting from a parked position and navig... moreating a complex route with multiple stops including Costco, Aldi, and UPS. The reviewer, initially a skeptic, expresses significant impressment with the latest FSD version, noting its ability to handle most driving tasks autonomously, including complex maneuvers like merging and navigating busy parking lots. Key highlights include the system's improved performance in challenging scenarios and its capability to park itself. However, the review also points out persistent issues, such as FSD's tendency to navigate to the backside of destinations and occasional struggles with pothole detection, leading to a manual disengagement. Despite these drawbacks, the reviewer concludes that FSD 13.2 is a substantial improvement, even suggesting its potential utility for ride-sharing services. less
Farewell Model Y! The Truth About Model Y AWD With 4680 Pack After 18 Months and 36k Miles
The reviewer is parting ways with their 2023 Tesla Model Y AWD with the 4680 structural battery pack after 18 months and 36,000 miles. While praising ... morethe vehicle's overall build quality, ride comfort, and the significantly improved Full Self-Driving capabilities (now version 12.3.3+), the core complaint lies with the charging performance and range. The 4680 battery pack's charging speed is described as 'terrible' and 'abysmal,' with a 10-80% charge taking 39 minutes, yielding only about 150 miles of real-world range at highway speeds. This results in a nearly 1:2 ratio of charge time to drive time, which is deemed unacceptable. Other minor criticisms include the removal of 12V/USB port functionality when the car is off and the lack of vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability. On the positive side, the reviewer highlights Tesla's excellent value proposition, especially with current tax credits and lease deals, the intuitive factory app, the robust third-party app ecosystem, effective heat pump performance, and the unparalleled Supercharger network experience. Despite the charging drawbacks, the reviewer concludes that the Model Y remains a fantastic value and a strong contender in the EV market, particularly for those prioritizing ease of use and charging infrastructure. less
This Tesla Should Have Never Been Sold - Model Y AWD With 4680 Pack Charging Analysis
The reviewer expresses significant disappointment with his 2023 Tesla Model Y AWD featuring the 4680 structural battery pack, labeling it the "wo... morerst Model Y Tesla has ever sold" primarily due to its abysmal charging performance. Despite using a V4 Supercharger with optimal conditions, the vehicle peaks at just over 200 kW and rapidly declines, falling below 100 kW by 30% charge. Charging from 10% to 80% takes approximately 39 minutes, a stark contrast to competitors like the Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5 which achieve the same in about 18 minutes with larger batteries. The reviewer notes the battery quickly reaches high temperatures (around 50°C) with inadequate cooling, leading to early thermal derating. He concludes that this specific configuration, which was only sold for a limited time, is not recommended for anyone prioritizing charging speed, and he is selling the vehicle because of these issues. less
Degradation At 35k Miles? 2023 Model Y AWD 4680 Pack Range And Degradation Test
This video details a range degradation test on a 2023 Tesla Model Y AWD with the 4680 battery pack after 35,000 miles. The reviewer conducted a 70 mph... more range test, driving from 100% down to 0% state of charge in approximately 50°F weather. The primary goal was to assess battery degradation compared to a previous test at 10,000 miles. The vehicle achieved an estimated 210 miles of range, consuming 64.5 kWh (61 kWh usable). Compared to the initial test, which used 67.37 kWh, this indicates a degradation of approximately 7% over 35,000 miles. While the reviewer notes this is slightly higher than expected for this mileage and timeframe, they acknowledge the test conditions (colder weather) and the focus on extracting maximum energy rather than optimal range. The reviewer also highlights the impressive performance of Tesla's FSD (Full Self-Driving) during the test, noting its usefulness and reliability on the highway. The video concludes by encouraging viewers to share their own EV degradation experiences. less
Tesla Opened 3 New V4 Superchargers in Charlotte! Site Tours and Impressions
This video provides an in-depth tour of three new Tesla V4 Supercharger sites in Charlotte, North Carolina. The reviewer meticulously examines the inf... morerastructure, from transformers to distribution cabinets and the V4 posts themselves. Key observations include the absence of credit card readers on the V4 posts, the presence of Magic Docks that are not yet active, and a concerning "do not operate" tag on a transformer at one site. The reviewer highlights Tesla's sophisticated DC bus architecture for power distribution but expresses disappointment that these sites are still limited to 500 volts, not the full 1000-volt capability of V4, suggesting a lack of future-proofing. The video also touches on ADA compliance, noting inconsistencies in stall design and accessibility. While the V4 posts are aesthetically pleasing and have longer cables, the reviewer questions the overall investment if higher voltage output isn't enabled. The review also includes a brief look at a Rivian Adventure Network installation for comparison. less
I Drive A 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning For 48 Hours - Full Tour & My Impressions
The reviewer spent 48 hours with a 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning XLT Extended Range, covering approximately 300 miles. While acknowledging the vehicle... more9;s impressive acceleration and the practicality of its massive 'Mega Power Frunk' with integrated power outlets, the review highlights several drawbacks. Charging speed is deemed predictable but not fast, and efficiency is noted as around 2.5 miles per kWh, making it less ideal for long road trips. The reviewer criticizes the complex menu system, the 'naggy' lane-keeping assist, and the lack of a visible charging speed indicator on the dash. The base sound system is considered mediocre, and the reviewer expresses a preference for a column shifter over the fold-down console shifter. Despite these criticisms, the reviewer is impressed with the XLT trim's content and finds the driving position and visibility excellent, even considering it as a potential future vehicle purchase. less
800+ Mile Weekend Trip in Tesla Model Y AWD! Going To The Beach And Checking Out V4 Superchargers
Branden Flasch embarks on an extensive 833-mile weekend road trip in his 2023 Tesla Model Y AWD, highlighting a mix of charging experiences and practi... morecal observations. The journey to Virginia Beach and back showcased the Model Y's capability for long-distance travel, with the reviewer noting decent efficiency around 300-319 Wh/mile, even in warm weather (85-90°F) and at highway speeds (70-75 mph). However, the charging experience was varied. Early V3 Supercharger stops showed slower-than-expected speeds, with the reviewer suspecting potential limitations with the 4680 battery pack or Tesla's charging allocation logic, often seeing speeds around 111-121 kW and a consistent 350 amps. Later V4 Supercharger sites, including a PSU installation, were explored, with mixed results on speed and installation quality, noting issues like payment terminals not being active and some V4 posts requiring an adapter for non-Teslas. The hotel charging at Four Points by Sheraton Virginia Beach was a positive, offering 48A Level 2 charging, though the installation's placement was deemed awkward. The reviewer also documented a quest for Starbucks mugs, adding a personal, albeit time-consuming, element to the trip. Overall, the Model Y proved reliable for the distance, but the charging infrastructure, particularly V3 speeds and V4 implementation quirks, presented areas for improvement. less
Don't Make The Mistake I Did! Truth About Model Y With 4680 Battery - 1 Year / 28k Mile Owner Review
After one year and 28,000 miles, the reviewer provides a candid assessment of their 2023 Tesla Model Y AWD with the 4680 battery pack. While praising ... morethe vehicle's overall value, ride quality, NVH, and the usefulness of the Tesla app and FSD (version 12.3.6), significant drawbacks are highlighted. The reviewer expresses strong dissatisfaction with the charging performance of the 4680 battery pack, deeming it 'terrible' and 'unacceptable,' taking 39 minutes for a 10-80% charge which adds only about 150 miles of real-world range. They feel owners of this specific configuration were essentially used as guinea pigs. Criticisms also extend to the lack of 120V/240V outlets, a built-in hotspot, 360 camera, cooled seats (a miss compared to other Tesla models), and a manual frunk. Despite these issues, the reviewer still recommends the Model Y, but specifically advises against the 4680 battery variant, preferring the 2170 pack found in Long Range models. less
400+ Mile Day Trip In Base Tesla Model Y! Heading To West Virginia To Check Out Chargers!
Branden Flasch embarks on an extensive 400+ mile day trip in his 2023 Tesla Model Y All-Wheel Drive, highlighting a mix of charging infrastructure and... more a quest for Starbucks mugs. The journey showcases various charging experiences, from new V4 Tesla Superchargers with and without payment terminals to older V2 and V3 sites, as well as Electrify America and EVgo stations. Flasch notes the physical differences and potential usability issues of the V4 posts, particularly their size and lack of payment terminals at one site. He also provides detailed insights into the infrastructure of several charging locations, including transformer sizes and cabinet capacities. While the primary goal of collecting specific Starbucks mugs was partially met, the trip also served as a practical test of the Model Y's range and charging efficiency, with the vehicle achieving 294 Wh/mile over the day. The review touches on pricing variations across different charging networks and the convenience of chargers located at amenities like Starbucks and Circle K. less
2023 Tesla Model S AWD 70 MPH Highway Range Test
This video presents a comprehensive 70 mph highway range test of a 2023 Tesla Model S Long Range AWD, equipped with optional 21-inch wheels. The revie... morewer, Branden Flasch, achieved a real-world range of 335 miles, which is approximately 95% of the car's displayed rated range at the time of charging completion (352 miles at 98%). While this result is considered solid and impressive given the larger wheels and a battery with some degradation, Flasch argues it's still not enough for practical road trips. He contends that a 335-mile range at a constant 70 mph in ideal conditions translates to a more realistic 250-mile usable range for typical travel, factoring in non-zero departure/arrival percentages, varying speeds, weather, and the desire for flexibility. The reviewer also expresses strong dissatisfaction with the yoke steering wheel and its touch-sensitive controls, deeming them a poor design choice. Overall, the video provides valuable data for potential used Model S buyers, highlighting both the vehicle's efficiency and the ongoing need for greater real-world range. less
2024 Model Y RWD US Spec Is A Charging Beast - 0-100% & 10-80% Full Charge Analysis
The 2024 Tesla Model Y RWD (US Spec) delivers surprisingly robust charging performance, challenging expectations for its segment. The reviewer highlig... morehts that despite being a software-limited version of the long-range battery pack, it achieves impressive charging speeds, particularly maintaining a high rate (around 160 kW) deep into the charge cycle, unlike other Teslas. The 0-100% charge takes just under 39 minutes, adding approximately 250 miles of real-world range, while the 10-80% charge is completed in a remarkable 22 minutes. The reviewer praises the consistency and the ability to add significant range quickly, making it highly road-trip capable. While acknowledging that the long-range variant might have slightly faster peak charging and more overall range, the RWD Model Y's charging efficiency and speed make it a compelling option, with the reviewer suggesting it could be safely charged to 100% daily due to the software limitation masking potential battery degradation. less
I Test 3 Supercharger Adapters For Non-Teslas With A Rivian R1T - Only One I Would Use!
Branden Flasch tests three third-party Supercharger adapters for non-Tesla EVs, specifically using a Rivian R1T. He evaluates the A2Z, Electron, and H... morealelink adapters, focusing on safety features, latch mechanisms, and actual charging performance. The Halelink adapter is immediately disqualified for failing to charge and lacking safety interlocks. The Electron adapter, while capable of charging, is deemed unsafe due to a faulty latch that does not secure properly and poses a risk of accidental disconnection. The A2Z adapter is the only one Flasch recommends, praising its safety interlock that prevents charging if the latch is open, despite noting a slightly difficult latch mechanism. He also briefly discusses the official Tesla adapter, highlighting its physical safety interlock but noting its slower shipping times. Ultimately, the A2Z adapter is presented as the best available option for Rivian and Ford owners needing immediate access to Tesla Superchargers. less
Incomplete! My Brutally Honest Thoughts After Experiencing Cybertruck - First Drive & Full Tour
Branden Flasch provides a candid, albeit brief, first impression of the 2024 Tesla Cybertruck Foundation Series All-Wheel Drive. While acknowledging t... morehe truck's unique presence and some advancements like steer-by-wire and a comfortable ride, Flasch highlights significant build quality concerns, including panel gaps and misalignments, which he finds unacceptable for a vehicle at this price point. He criticizes the impracticality of the front trunk, the exposed underbody welds, and the sharp edges on various components. The interior, while featuring a large screen, is noted for its fingerprint-prone surfaces and a surprisingly small rear-view mirror rendered useless by the closed tunnel cover. A major point of contention is the complete absence of even basic autopilot features, which Flasch deems a significant oversight for Tesla's flagship product. Despite its polarizing design and some functional drawbacks, the steer-by-wire system and ride quality are noted as positives, though the overall experience is tempered by build quality issues and the lack of driver assistance. less
Game-Changer! FSD 12.3 Demo Drive in Model Y w/ HW4
In this video, Branden Flasch provides an in-depth look at Tesla's FSD Beta 12.3.3, testing it in his 2023 Model Y equipped with Hardware 4. Flas... morech is notably impressed with this iteration, highlighting its significantly improved performance over previous versions. He notes that while FSD 12.3 is not yet a fully driverless solution, it has become a genuinely useful driver assistance system, reducing his need for interventions to almost zero on public roads. Key improvements include smoother cornering, better handling of complex intersections, and more human-like maneuvers. However, Flasch points out persistent issues, such as the system's struggle in parking lots, a tendency to be overly cautious or hesitant in certain situations, and a lack of refinement in speed bump detection and lane changes. He also expresses a desire for the return of the trajectory line visualization. Despite these drawbacks, Flasch concludes that FSD 12.3 represents a significant leap forward, moving him from a pessimistic to a hesitantly optimistic outlook on the future of Tesla's autonomous driving technology. less
Great, But Not A Good Value - Volvo C40 Quick Review
The reviewer finds the 2023 Volvo C40 Recharge Twin to be a competent and enjoyable electric vehicle, praising its quick acceleration, refined ride, a... morend particularly its excellent Android Automotive infotainment system with robust route planning. The premium interior and comfortable seats are also highlighted as positives. However, the C40's significant drawback is its value proposition. The reviewer deems it overpriced, especially when compared to the Tesla Model Y, which offers more range, efficiency, and advanced driver-assistance features for a considerably lower price, even after the federal tax credit. The lack of standard adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist on this mid-to-high $50,000 vehicle is a major disappointment. While the reviewer likes the car, they cannot recommend buying it new unless cost is no object or the buyer is a dedicated Volvo enthusiast. The C40's cramped rear seating and sloping roofline are noted as downsides compared to the more practical XC40 Recharge. The reviewer strongly suggests looking at the used market, where the C40 and especially the XC40 become much more competitive. less
Charlotte to Tampa in Model Y AWD - Easy But Long Stops
This video documents a road trip from Charlotte, NC to Tampa, FL in a 2023 Tesla Model Y AWD with a 4680 battery. The reviewer highlights the ease of ... morethe journey, punctuated by several charging stops. Key stops included Orangeburg, SC, and Porters, GA, where the reviewer noted the low cost of charging (25 cents/kWh) and the benefit of free charging through referrals. A significant portion of the video is dedicated to exploring a new Mercedes-Benz ChargePoint installation at a Buc-ee's in St. Augustine, FL, detailing its infrastructure and operation. The reviewer notes the removal of bollards at Supercharger locations, a change attributed to the Cybertruck. The trip concluded with a 205-mile leg to Tampa, arriving with 3% charge. Overall, the trip covered 625 miles, consuming approximately 200 kWh with an efficiency of just over 3 miles per kWh. The reviewer found the trip easy but long, with the charging stops being a necessary but manageable part of the journey. less
The Best Daily Driver! 2023 Model Y (w/4680 Structural Battery) 6 Month Owner Review
After six months and nearly 18,000 miles, the reviewer finds the 2023 Tesla Model Y AWD with the 4680 structural battery pack to be a highly practical... more and enjoyable daily driver, praising its excellent build quality, comfort, low operating costs, and extensive storage. However, the review is significantly marred by the abysmal charging performance of this specific trim, which takes an unacceptably long 39 minutes to charge from 10% to 80%. While the battery degradation is minimal (1.1% over 17,000 miles), the reviewer argues this is not a significant benefit over other Model Y trims that already exhibit low degradation. The reviewer also criticizes the auto wipers and the high-definition parking assist for being unreliable and less useful than traditional sensors. Ultimately, despite loving the Model Y platform, the reviewer strongly advises against purchasing this particular 4680 battery pack trim due to its poor charging speed, recommending the Long Range or Performance trims instead. less
Tesla Version 4 Superchargers Are Here In North America (Kind Of) - Full Site Tour!
This video provides an initial look at Tesla's Version 4 Superchargers in North America, though the site is not fully operational. The reviewer w... morealks through a newly installed V4 Supercharger site, highlighting the physical differences from V3, such as the larger size, integrated cable management, and the presence of a new nozzle designed for future Tesla vehicles and potentially other EVs. The reviewer notes the V4 chargers' higher power output capability (up to 250kW) and the potential for bidirectional charging, although these features are not yet active at this specific location. The video serves as a preview, indicating that while the hardware is present, the full functionality and widespread rollout are still pending. It's a useful, albeit incomplete, first look for EV enthusiasts anticipating the next generation of Tesla charging infrastructure. less
Blasting Down The East Coast! Model Y Road Trip Maine To North Carolina
This video documents a road trip from Maine to North Carolina in a 2023 Tesla Model Y Standard AWD. The reviewer, Branden Flasch, provides a detailed ... moreaccount of charging stops, efficiency, and the overall experience. Key highlights include the car's performance on the road, achieving 221 miles on a single charge (its most ever outside of a range test), and a respectable overall efficiency of 291 Wh/mile for the trip. The reviewer notes the charging curve on the 4680 battery pack is 'disappointing' and experienced some issues with specific Supercharger handles and stalls. Notable charging locations featured include the first-ever Supercharger site in Milford, Connecticut, and a site with Magic Dock in Enfield, Connecticut. The reviewer also encountered new Apple Green installations and older, less functional chargers. The trip covered 2,563 miles with a total charging cost of approximately $48, excluding the hotel charge. The video concludes with a comprehensive recap of the journey's stats and the car's condition. less
1,000 Mile Tesla Model Y Road Trip Up The East Coast
This video documents a 1,000-mile road trip from Charlotte, North Carolina, to Maine in a 2023 Tesla Model Y AWD. The reviewer highlights the convenie... morence of Tesla's Supercharger network, especially with the benefit of free charging through referral codes, though a hotel's Level 2 charger proved surprisingly expensive. The reviewer notes the car's efficiency in the Northeast, averaging 295 Wh/mile, and praises the comfortable ride and practicality for long distances. Minor issues included navigating to some Supercharger locations and the occasional wait for charging. The video serves as a practical guide to long-distance EV travel, showcasing real-world charging experiences and efficiency figures, with the reviewer expressing satisfaction with the overall journey and the vehicle's performance. less
Barely Acceptable - 70 MPH Highway Range Test In 2023 Model Y AWD 4680 Battery
This video presents a 70 mph highway range test of a 2023 Tesla Model Y AWD equipped with the 4680 structural battery pack. The reviewer, Branden Flas... morech, conducted the test under consistent conditions, aiming for accuracy. The vehicle achieved 229 miles of real-world range from a 100% charge, equating to 82% of its rated range. While this result is deemed 'barely acceptable' and not impressive, it exceeded the reviewer's expectation of around 200 miles. The reviewer notes the 4680 battery pack, while functional, is now discontinued in favor of the LFP rear-wheel-drive model, which he expresses interest in testing. The video highlights the importance of factors like elevation and wind, and the reviewer's personal satisfaction with the car for daily use, despite a desire for better charging and more range. less
Tesla Model Y: Ultimate Accessories Guide and Full Tour of My Tested Additions
This video provides an in-depth look at a wide array of accessories for the 2023 Tesla Model Y, accumulated over 10,000 miles of use. The presenter, B... morerandon Flasch, highlights his top six essential accessories, including durable Kagu floor mats, a practical cable pass-through bar, a matte screen protector, a cup holder insert, Rally Armor mud flaps, and a grill insert to protect the radiator. The review emphasizes the long-term durability and effectiveness of these items. Beyond the top picks, the video offers a comprehensive tour of exterior enhancements like STEK DYNOprism PPF and window tint, and interior upgrades such as seatback protectors, a Tescamp fridge, and S3XY buttons for customizable controls. Flasch also covers essential cleaning, tire repair, and charging accessories, recommending the Tesla mobile connector and official CCS adapter. The presenter's recommendations are based on personal experience and rigorous testing, making this a valuable resource for Model Y owners looking to personalize and enhance their vehicles. less
Huge Tesla Supercharger vs Tiny CCS Station! I’d Be Stuck If I Owned Any Other EV
The reviewer embarks on an extensive road trip in a 2023 Tesla Model Y, highlighting the vast differences between Tesla Superchargers and CCS stations... more. The video showcases the immense scale of the 40-stall Tesla Supercharger in Dillon, South Carolina, the largest east of Texas, contrasting it with a crowded and underperforming Electrify America station where queues and slow charging were observed. The reviewer notes the convenience and reliability of Tesla's network, even at older V2 Superchargers, while CCS stations presented challenges with availability and speed. Practical aspects like the lack of amenities at some Supercharger locations (restrooms, trash cans) are pointed out. The Model Y's efficiency is praised, averaging 303 Wh/mile on the return trip. The reviewer concludes that for road trips, the Tesla Supercharger network remains a significant advantage, making other EVs feel stranded in comparison. less