Out of Spec BITS is a premier digital channel dedicated to the dynamic world of electric vehicles (EVs). This distributor delves into the latest advancements in EV technology, charging infrastructure, and the practical realities of EV ownership. Through insightful coverage and engaging discussions, Out of Spec BITS provides a comprehensive look at the evolving landscape of electric mobility.
The channel's content offers a deep dive into weekly EV news, ownership tips, and explorations of emerging trends. From examining the performance of cutting-edge EV components to analyzing the infrastructure that powers them, Out of Spec BITS serves as an essential resource for enthusiasts and those curious about the future of transportation.
The channel's content offers a deep dive into weekly EV news, ownership tips, and explorations of emerging trends. From examining the performance of cutting-edge EV components to analyzing the infrastructure that powers them, Out of Spec BITS serves as an essential resource for enthusiasts and those curious about the future of transportation.
1550nm Vehicle Lidar Fried My Phone But Will It Ruin The Autopilot Cameras On My Tesla!?
This video investigates the potential for the Volvo EX90's 1550nm LiDAR system to damage camera sensors, a concern amplified by online reports. The hosts successfully demonstrate that the LiDAR can indeed fry smartphone cameras, causing permanent damage, even from a distance. They meticulously te...
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Curbside Charging Will Help City Drivers Harvesting Extra Energy For EVs Episode 248
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast features Nathan King, CEO of itselectric, discussing their innovative curbside EV charging solution designed f... moreor city dwellers without off-street parking. The core of their business model leverages existing spare electrical capacity in city buildings, bypassing complex utility interconnections and offering a "behind the meter" approach. King highlights the critical need for Level 2 charging infrastructure in urban environments, contrasting it with the overemphasis on DC fast charging. A key differentiator is their detachable charging cord, inspired by European models, which aims to simplify deployment and maintenance. The company is currently in a pilot phase, with seven chargers installed and actively used by drivers, and is focused on expanding its footprint in Detroit and securing a major Northeast city contract. The discussion also touches upon the challenges of urban charging, the importance of municipal partnerships, and future plans including micromobility charging and vehicle-to-grid integration. less
Nokian Tyres Balances Sustainability and Quality - Polestar Partner and Climate Neutral EV
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast features an insightful discussion with Nokian Tyres, focusing on their pivotal role in Polestar's ambitio... moreus "Polestar 0" project, which aims to create a climate-neutral car by 2030. The conversation highlights Nokian's commitment to sustainability, emphasizing emission reduction over offsets, and their long-standing efforts in developing tires with lower rolling resistance and improved durability for EVs. Key takeaways include Nokian's innovative approach to tire design, expanding the traditional "magic triangle" to include sustainability as a core performance metric. The interview also touches upon the unique demands EVs place on tires, such as increased weight and instant torque, and Nokian's decade-long experience in catering to these needs. A significant announcement is the upcoming opening of Nokian's zero-CO2 emission tire factory in Romania, set to be a benchmark for the industry. The discussion underscores the necessity for industry-wide collaboration and innovation to achieve ambitious sustainability goals, positioning Nokian Tyres as a forerunner in this critical transition. less
Our Grid vs Electric Vehicles - The Reality Of Making EVs Work
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast features a detailed discussion with Dan Bowermaster of EPRI, focusing on the readiness of the electrical grid ... morefor the EV transition. Bowermaster, Head of EPRI's Electric Vehicle Research Program, clarifies that while the grid isn't inherently unprepared, significant planning and investment are required to accommodate the projected surge in EV adoption. He emphasizes that utilities are accustomed to managing large loads and that the challenge lies in the timing and strategic placement of grid upgrades, rather than a fundamental inability of the grid to cope. The conversation highlights the importance of data-driven planning, the role of independent research from organizations like EPRI, and the complexities of utility structures in the US. Key takeaways include the feasibility of managing residential charging through smart scheduling, the distinct challenges of fleet and heavy-duty vehicle charging, and the potential of Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology as a future enabler, though not a prerequisite for widespread EV adoption. The discussion also touches upon the ongoing standardization efforts and the critical need for reliable and easy-to-use public fast-charging infrastructure. less
The Team Talks EVs In The Cold! Tips & Tricks For Electric Winters | Episode 246
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast tackles the common anxieties surrounding EV ownership in cold weather, concluding that while range and chargin... moreg speeds are impacted, EVs are not inherently problematic for winter use, and can even offer advantages over combustion vehicles. The panel, comprised of experienced EV drivers from various locations, debunks myths by sharing personal anecdotes and practical advice. Key takeaways include the importance of preconditioning batteries for optimal charging, using heated seats over cabin heating to conserve energy, and the significant benefit of home charging. The discussion highlights that for most daily commutes, cold weather impacts are manageable, and for road trips, modern EVs with good thermal management and preconditioning capabilities perform well. The consensus is that while EVs aren't perfect for every lifestyle, especially without home charging in cold climates, the benefits and manageable drawbacks make them a viable, and often superior, choice even in winter. less
The Slowest Cannonball Run Ever! Driving A Solar Powered Tesla From NY to LA
Joe Kliewer details his ambitious, albeit slow, solar-powered Cannonball Run from New York to Los Angeles in a Tesla Model Y. The journey, spanning 57... more days, highlights the challenges and ingenuity required to power an EV solely through solar energy. Kliewer emphasizes the importance of efficiency, driving at night and charging during the day, and the necessity of meticulous planning, which often had to be abandoned due to unforeseen circumstances like crowded campsites and weather. He praises the quality of SunPower panels and the efficiency of the Model Y, noting its practicality for carrying the necessary equipment. Despite the hardships, including a near-quitting moment in Tennessee due to persistent rain and shade, Kliewer found the experience rewarding, pushing his comfort zone and learning valuable lessons about self-reliance and problem-solving. The narrative also touches upon the evolving solar technology, the appeal of energy independence, and the common misconceptions surrounding EVs, which he addresses with patience and logic. less
Ranking Every Automaker's EV Sales In 2023
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast provides a comprehensive overview of 2023 US EV sales, highlighting Tesla's continued dominance with over... more 654,000 units sold, capturing 55% of the market share. Despite a slight decrease from the previous year, Tesla's aggressive pricing strategy is credited for its strong performance, with the Model Y being the second best-selling car overall and the top-selling EV. GM follows in second place, showing significant year-over-year growth despite challenges with its Ultium platform and the discontinuation of the Bolt EV. Ford ranks third, with the Mustang Mach-E leading its EV SUV sales, though the company has scaled back some EV investments. The podcast also details sales figures for Hyundai/Kia, Rivian, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, Volvo, Polestar, Nissan, Toyota, Subaru, Lucid, Genesis, Fisker, and Jaguar, offering insights into their market positions and growth trajectories. The review concludes by listing the top five selling EV models, reinforcing Tesla's strong lead with the Model Y and Model 3. less
Fire At Tesla Supercharging Station! The Cause Is Not What You Think
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast delves into a concerning incident: a fire at a Tesla Supercharger station in San Jose, California. Hosts Franc... moreie and Brandon Flasch, an EV charging expert, investigate the potential causes, emphasizing that the fire originated within the electrical distribution cabinet rather than the Supercharger units themselves. Flasch explains the complex layers of safety and protection built into charging infrastructure, noting that such events, especially with visible sparks and flames, are extremely uncommon. While the exact cause remains speculative, possibilities include loose connections due to thermal expansion or upstream faults. The discussion highlights the rapid response from emergency services and utility crews, who worked to safely isolate the site. The hosts also touch upon the importance of real-time status updates on platforms like Plugshare for EV drivers, especially as Tesla's network opens to non-Tesla vehicles. The incident underscores the critical role of specialized electrical safety training and expertise in maintaining these high-power charging sites. less
Mazda Adopts NACS! But They Still Don't Have Clear EV Plans | Episode 241
Mazda has announced its adoption of the North American Charging Standard (NACS) for its battery electric vehicles launching in North America from 2025... more onwards. This move, while expected as the industry standardizes, comes as Mazda's EV footprint remains minimal. The discussion highlights the MX-30, Mazda's sole BEV to date, which was largely a compliance car with a limited 100-mile range and a mid-$30,000 price point, earning it the title of 'worst EV' in 2022. While Mazda plans to introduce 13 electrified models by 2025, including three pure EVs, and aims for 100% electrification by 2030 with 25% being pure EVs, their current offering is scarce. The podcast also touches on the potential for an electrified Miata, emphasizing that its core identity is lightweight design, not powertrain, making electrification less offensive than in other iconic models. However, practical battery technology for such a lightweight vehicle remains a hurdle, with solid-state batteries being a potential future solution. The adoption of NACS is seen as a necessary step, but Mazda's overall EV strategy is still largely a 'wait and see' situation. less
EV Charging Trends At CES - No One Wants To Charge On A Box With A Plug
The Out of Spec Podcast crew discusses their impressions of CES 2024, focusing on EV charging trends and automotive technology. While the show feature... mored a vast array of innovations, the hosts noted a lack of groundbreaking new EV models, with most automakers focusing on concepts or existing platforms. The charging sector, however, presented a more dynamic landscape, with established players emphasizing reliability and user experience, while numerous startups offered cheaper, albeit potentially less robust, solutions. The discussion highlighted the importance of discerning legitimate charging hardware from 'vaporware' and the ongoing development of the North American Charging Standard (NACS) and its associated connectors. The hosts also touched upon the pervasive influence of AI across various technologies, including automotive applications, and the evolving strategies of manufacturers like Honda and VinFast, who showcased numerous concepts but faced scrutiny regarding their production readiness and manufacturing capabilities. Overall, CES 2024 was perceived as a significant event for understanding industry direction, particularly in charging infrastructure and the integration of AI, rather than a year for major EV production reveals. less
The Real Story Of EVs Freezing In Chicago - Clogged Chargers, Cold Batteries, Stranded
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast delves into the critical issues faced by EV owners during extreme cold weather, specifically the recent Chicag... moreo charging crisis. Special guest Merchy Bautista, an EV owner on the ground in Chicago, shares his firsthand experience, highlighting a significant 40-50% loss in battery range and the increased need for charging. The discussion reveals a "triple whammy" of factors: a growing EV adoption rate, a lack of home charging solutions for many urban dwellers, and the pressure on public DC fast chargers. The hosts and Merchy explore the technical challenges, including battery chemistry's performance in sub-zero temperatures, the importance of preconditioning, and the impact of cold on charging speeds and reliability. They also touch upon the role of ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft in congesting public chargers, particularly with rental EVs. The verdict points to a need for better driver education on winter EV operation, improved automaker communication, and more robust, reliable charging infrastructure that can handle both personal and commercial use, especially in extreme weather conditions. less
He's Figured Out How To Clean Cybertrucks! Coleton's Cleaning Concoction for Stainless
This episode delves into the unique challenges of detailing the Tesla Cybertruck's stainless steel exterior. Host Francie is joined by Colton of ... moreOut of Spec Detailing, who shares his extensive, albeit challenging, experience testing various cleaning solutions. Colton found the stainless steel surface to be a significant pain point, prone to fingerprints and developing an undesirable orange or brown patina. He highlights that traditional detailing methods and products often failed or exacerbated the issue, with ceramic coatings even worsening the finish. After considerable experimentation, Colton discovered a combination of Barkeeper's Friend liquid and Windex to be the most effective solution for removing tarnish and achieving a cohesive, bright finish, even on panels with color discrepancies. However, he stresses that this finish remains unprotected and anticipates many owners may opt for wraps. The review underscores the material's unique properties, its susceptibility to environmental factors like bugs and salt brine, and the extreme temperature fluctuations it endures, suggesting that maintaining a pristine Cybertruck will be a significant undertaking for owners. less
2000 Mile Tesla Roadtrip Saved By CCS - V2 Superchargers, LFP Batteries, & Autosteer!
This episode details a 2000-mile road trip from Colorado to California in a Tesla Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive with an LFP battery. The reviewer, Ryan, hi... moreghlights that while Tesla's Supercharger network is generally excellent, the CCS network, specifically Electrify America, proved to be faster and more convenient on certain stretches, particularly between Grand Junction, CO, and Salina, UT. This was attributed to the limitations of V2 Superchargers, which share power and offer slower speeds compared to the higher-output CCS chargers available. Ryan found the CCS charging experience to be manageable and a positive alternative, despite the slight inconvenience of activating a different network. The review also touches on the benefits of LFP batteries, allowing for frequent 100% charging, and the improved usability of Tesla's Autosteer function after a recent software update, which has significantly reduced phantom braking incidents. Overall, the trip was smooth, with charging stops averaging 10-25 minutes, and Ryan expressed satisfaction with the flexibility offered by having access to both charging networks. less
Wrapping The First Cybertrucks! TesBros Ditch Stubborn Fingerprints For Custom Colors | Episode 234
This episode features Ji from TesBros, a company specializing in EV customization and protection, discussing their experience wrapping Tesla Cybertruc... moreks. Ji highlights the unique challenges and rewards of working with the Cybertruck's stainless steel body, noting its susceptibility to fingerprints and the owner's desire for aesthetic customization. He shares insights into the wrapping process, emphasizing the need for meticulous preparation and the difficulties posed by cold weather conditions. Ji also touches on the Cybertruck's polarizing design and its surprisingly smooth, albeit unconventional, driving experience, even expressing his own intention to purchase one as a daily driver. The discussion underscores the growing trend of Cybertruck owners opting for wraps, not just for looks but also for easier maintenance, and explores the potential for Cybertruck to broaden the appeal of electric trucks. less
Kia Introduces Modular EV Design Concept At CES In Las Vegas - Big Dreams For PBV
Kia has unveiled a groundbreaking modular EV concept, the Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV), at CES 2024, aiming to redefine mobility for both commercial ... moreand individual use. This concept, showcased through various models like the PV5, PV7, and PV1, emphasizes extreme flexibility, allowing users to customize the vehicle's configuration, from van bodies to pickup beds, via a standardized, weldless kit system. The presenters are highly impressed by Kia's vision, noting its potential to revolutionize fleet electrification by addressing specific use-case needs and offering a scalable, cost-effective approach compared to traditional custom builds. While acknowledging it's a concept, they highlight Kia's strong track record of bringing innovative ideas to market, citing the EV9 as an example. The PBV platform also integrates with a broader ecosystem of robotics and autonomous driving, signaling a forward-thinking strategy. The presenters are eager for its potential 2025 market entry, though they caution patience is needed. less
Model 3 Refresh Arrives In North America! The Best Value EV Just Got Better
The Tesla Model 3 'Highland' refresh has officially landed in North America, and the consensus from the Out of Spec Podcast crew is that it ... moresignificantly elevates an already excellent vehicle. Praised for its improved ride comfort, refined interior with better materials, ventilated seats, and ambient lighting, the Highland addresses many previous shortcomings. The enhanced acoustics and quieter cabin are particularly noted as major upgrades. While the core architecture remains similar, the attention to detail in the refresh makes it feel more premium and solid. A key point of discussion is the tax credit eligibility, with the Long Range AWD variant currently not qualifying, making the older Model 3 Performance a potentially better value proposition for some. Despite minor design quibbles, the overall sentiment is that the Highland is a compelling package, solidifying its position as a benchmark EV, especially for those seeking a well-rounded, efficient, and enjoyable driving experience. less
The Craziness Of Our Cybertruck Reviews! Broken Trucks, Nervous Employees, & Much More | Episode 231
This podcast episode delves into the highly anticipated Tesla Cybertruck, recounting the team's experience obtaining and testing five different u... morenits in Austin, Texas. The review highlights the challenges faced, including initial issues with broken screens and nervous Tesla employees hesitant about coverage. The hosts detail their diverse approaches, from Kyle's in-depth range and charging tests (which yielded a real-world range of 254 miles at 70 mph, falling short of the EPA estimate) to Coleton's meticulous stainless steel detailing experiments and Brandon's rental experience via Turo at a steep $1000/day. Despite the logistical hurdles and the inherent 'newness' of the vehicle, the team managed to gather significant insights. Key takeaways include the Cybertruck's polarizing design, the unique material challenges for detailing, and the ongoing questions surrounding its real-world usability and Tesla's support for media coverage. While the episode touches upon driving impressions and various tests, a comprehensive verdict on whether to buy is left open, emphasizing the vehicle's experimental nature. less
Here’s What It’s Like Owning A Fisker! Purchase, Delivery, & Ownership Experience
This episode features an in-depth look at the ownership experience of the Fisker Ocean One, shared by owner Brian. While Brian praises the vehicle... more9;s design, build quality, and driving dynamics, highlighting its unique features and competitive pricing against models like the Tesla Model Y, the review is heavily tempered by significant software and delivery-related issues. Brian details a challenging delivery process, including a missing panel and non-functional vents, and persistent problems with the touchscreen, especially at low states of charge. Charging compatibility issues with popular networks like Electrify America and ChargePoint, along with key fob reliability, are also noted. Fisker's communication and transparency are questioned, with the owner suggesting early adopters are essentially beta testers. Despite these considerable drawbacks, Brian remains cautiously optimistic about Fisker's potential, particularly if software and service execution improve, but strongly advises potential buyers to proceed with extreme caution, emphasizing it's not a vehicle for first-time EV owners or those seeking a seamless experience. less
How To Hire And Be Hired In The Growing Electric Vehicle Industry! | Episode 229
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast delves into the burgeoning electric vehicle industry's recruitment landscape, featuring insights from Ray... moremond McSpirit, CEO of McSpirit Search and EVRecruitment, and Ray Delfing, their EV Sales Director. The discussion highlights the common paradox of job descriptions demanding extensive experience in a nascent sector. Key advice for job seekers includes articulating transferable skills and actively engaging with the industry through trade shows. For companies, the emphasis is on building diverse and adaptable teams, often by looking beyond traditional experience to find candidates with relevant skills from adjacent industries like telecom and automation. The hosts also touch upon the challenges of market growth, including the impact of layoffs and the need for robust charging infrastructure reliability. A significant portion of the conversation is dedicated to the importance of mission-driven work and the growing emphasis on sustainability and diversity within EV companies, underscoring the sector's potential for significant positive impact. less
We Designed Our Own EV Range Test! Let's See How It Compares To Other Outlets
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast delves into the nuances of EV range testing, comparing the methods and results of Out of Spec with those of Co... morensumer Reports. Host Francie and data specialist Ryan highlight the similarities in their core testing procedures, such as maintaining 70 mph, preconditioning, and charging to 100%. However, Consumer Reports' ability to conduct tests in highly controlled environments (specific temperatures, no adverse weather) is noted as a significant advantage, though not realistic for Out of Spec's press vehicle testing model. The discussion reveals that while Out of Spec's results can be influenced by variables like temperature and elevation (Colorado's high altitude impacting drag), their data generally aligns closely with Consumer Reports when conditions are similar. Key takeaways include automaker trends, with German manufacturers like BMW and Mercedes tending to under-promise and over-deliver on range, while Tesla consistently underperforms its EPA estimates. The episode also touches on the evolving consumer concerns, with EV pricing now surpassing range anxiety as the primary barrier to adoption. less
Two Battery Replacements In One Model Y! Bad Luck Or Bad Engineering?
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast details a highly unusual and concerning experience with a Tesla Model Y, involving two separate battery pack r... moreeplacements under warranty within approximately 60,000 miles. The owner, Tollak, shares his detailed account, emphasizing that he followed best practices for EV charging and battery care, including primarily charging at home and avoiding frequent 100% charges. Despite these efforts, both the original battery and its replacement failed with similar error codes, leading to significant downtime and a stressful ownership period. While Tesla replaced the packs under the 120,000-mile warranty, the repeated failures raise questions about potential manufacturing defects or the longevity of these specific battery units. Tollak's experience highlights the critical importance of robust battery warranties, especially as EVs become more integrated into ride-sharing and high-mileage use cases. He suggests the need for potentially ride-share specific warranties or greater transparency from automakers regarding battery refurbishment and replacement processes. Despite the battery issues, Tollak maintains overall confidence in Tesla's battery technology, citing other owners with high mileage on original packs, but expresses a lack of trust in his specific vehicle, particularly as it approaches the end of its warranty. less
The Out of Spec Team Wraps Up 2023! A Year Of Electric Firsts, Lasts, & OMG Moments | Episode 225
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast serves as a comprehensive year-end review of 2023 in the electric vehicle space, featuring insights from the e... morentire Out of Spec team. Key discussions highlight the widespread adoption of the North American Charging Standard (NACS) by automakers, the fluctuating lithium prices, and the launch of the NEVI-funded charging site. The team shares personal highlights, including the Cybertruck unveiling, the challenges and successes of public charging infrastructure (with a nod to the 'Rate Your Charge' initiative's impact), and the growing trend of EV affordability. Disappointments were noted regarding GM's EV rollout struggles, particularly with software issues affecting models like the Blazer EV and Hummer EV. The episode also touches on future plans for Out of Spec content, including a new channel focused on EV conversions and sustainability, and teases new merchandise. Overall, the discussion reflects a dynamic year for EVs, marked by both significant advancements and persistent challenges. less
Chasing Down A Fisker Ocean One - EV Enthusiast Tells Us His First Impressions
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast features EV enthusiast TJ sharing his initial impressions of the Fisker Ocean One after a brief showroom exper... moreience. While Fisker is a startup with a renowned designer, the vehicle's engineering and production are handled by Magna, a reputable manufacturer. TJ was impressed by the Ocean's build quality, tight panel gaps, and premium interior materials, noting that it felt well-built and not cheap, even in what he suspected was a base model. He particularly liked the physical buttons for essential controls, finding them more functional than Tesla's UI. The design was also praised for its unique yet familiar aesthetic, resembling a mix of Range Rover Sport and Jaguar. However, concerns remain regarding software responsiveness, with TJ experiencing minor lag during screen rotations, though he found it acceptable. The solar roof's range contribution was deemed minimal for average drivers. The hosts and TJ acknowledge Fisker's past struggles and the mixed reviews from media outlets, including reports of significant software glitches and even vehicle breakdowns on press cars. Despite these concerns, the Ocean is seen as a potentially strong competitor in the EV SUV market, especially if Fisker can quickly address software issues and deliver on promised lower price points. The immediate availability and lease deals in California are noted as interesting market strategies. less
Energizing The Nation's First NEVI Site! Ohio's Electric Journey & Secrets To Success | Episode 223
This episode of the Out-of-Spec Podcast features a detailed discussion with Preeti Choudhary and Breanna Badanes from DriveOhio regarding the successf... moreul launch of the nation's first NEVI-funded EV charging site. The guests highlight Ohio's proactive approach, leveraging a pre-existing sighting study to expedite the NEVI plan and site selection process. Key takeaways include the importance of industry collaboration, a strong focus on workforce development and equity within the plan, and a commitment to enforcing a 97% reliability standard for charging infrastructure through contractual penalties. The discussion also touches upon the challenges of implementing new federal programs within state agencies, the need for flexible yet structured processes, and the value of public engagement. DriveOhio's strategy prioritizes fast charging along interstates for initial rounds, with future plans to expand to community locations and consider varying charging speeds based on local needs. The episode underscores Ohio's leadership in rapid deployment and its forward-thinking approach to building a robust EV charging network. less
Every Automaker's NACS Plan - Everything We Know About Tesla Supercharger Access
This episode of the Out-of-Spec Podcast provides a comprehensive overview of automaker plans for adopting the North American Charging Standard (NACS) ... moreand accessing the Tesla Supercharger network. Host Francie details the staggered rollout of NACS adoption, highlighting that Ford and GM will be the first to gain access via adapters in February 2024, with native NACS ports arriving in 2025. The review emphasizes the significant value proposition of Supercharger access for EV owners, particularly given the reported unreliability and limitations of the current CCS public charging infrastructure. While most automakers announced plans for 2025 with adapter solutions for existing CCS vehicles, the exact cost of adapters, maximum charging speeds for CCS drivers, and specific user experience remain largely unconfirmed. The episode meticulously breaks down each automaker's announcement, including dates, projected Supercharger access numbers, and adapter strategies, noting Subaru, Toyota Group, Lucid, and VW Group as having access to over 15,000 Superchargers. less