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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EVs In Africa And Hydrogen In Chile - The Worldwide Transition To Greener Technologies | Episode 190
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast features Dr. Bryan Willson, discussing his extensive work in energy, engineering, and entrepreneurship, with a... more particular focus on the global transition to cleaner technologies. The conversation highlights Dr. Willson's experiences in Africa and Chile, offering unique insights into the challenges and opportunities of EV adoption in diverse markets. In Africa, the focus is on electrifying two-wheelers and buses as a practical starting point, addressing economic realities and air quality issues, exemplified by the entrepreneurial import of used Nissan Leafs in Nairobi. Chile presents a different landscape with abundant renewable resources, where hydrogen is being explored for heavy-duty applications, particularly in the mining sector, and as a means to store intermittent renewable energy. Dr. Willson emphasizes the critical need for societal will and engagement to scale these technologies, cautioning that technological solutions alone are insufficient without cultural and educational shifts. The episode underscores the importance of local participation and tailored approaches to sustainable energy transitions. less
Out of Spec vs LA Auto Show! | Episode 189
The Out of Spec podcast crew discusses their experience at the 2023 LA Auto Show, noting a significant decrease in manufacturer presence and a shift t... moreowards individual brand events. While the show offered opportunities for media to capture content and compare vehicles on the same platform, the overall impression was one of a diminished spectacle compared to previous years, partly due to the lingering effects of the pandemic and industry shifts. The Lucid Gravity was highlighted as the standout reveal, drawing significant public attention and overshadowing other debuts like the Hyundai Santa Fe and Kia EV6 GT. The podcast also touched upon the evolving charging landscape, with EVgo present and discussing NACS adoption, while Electrify America had no dedicated booth. The team expressed a desire for more EV unveilings and critiqued the lack of technical expertise among some brand representatives. less
The Polestar 4 Market Position Confuses Us
The Polestar 4's market positioning and naming convention are a significant point of confusion for the hosts, especially when compared to the Pol... moreestar 3. While the Polestar 4 is built on the Smart #1/Volvo EX30 platform (Scalable Experience Architecture - SEA) and features a 102 kWh battery with AWD (400 kW) or RWD (200 kW) options, its chronological placement and design intent are questioned. The vehicle is described as an 'SUV Coupe transformed,' a new segment invented by Polestar, which notably lacks a rear window, relying entirely on a high-quality digital rear-view mirror. This design choice, along with moving the hinge point back, aims to improve rear headroom and cargo capacity. Despite sharing a platform with the EX30, it's positioned as a more premium offering, with a larger battery than the EX30 and comparable interior space to the Polestar 3, though it uses a different platform (SPA2) than the Polestar 3. The hosts express a general lack of enthusiasm for the Polestar 4, preferring the Polestar 3 for its more traditional SUV/wagon functionality and design, despite the 4's potential lower price point and unique features like the digital rear window and advanced sound system. The production timeline, with the 4 launching in China before the 3 in Europe and the US, adds to the overall market confusion. less
1 Billion For A Charging Network! Meet The Man Responsible - Mercedes-Benz Charging | Episode 187
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast features an in-depth discussion with Andrew Cornelia, CEO of Mercedes-Benz HPC NA, about the company's si... moregnificant investment in public EV charging infrastructure. The conversation centers on the newly opened charging hub in Sandy Springs, GA, highlighting its premium design, 400kW charging capability, and customer-centric amenities like a lounge. Cornelia emphasizes Mercedes-Benz's commitment to building a fast, premium, and open-access charging network across North America, backed by a $1 billion investment. He details the strategic partnerships, the choice of Charge Point as a technology partner, and the integration of NACS by 2024. The discussion also touches upon the challenges of infrastructure development, the importance of collaboration with utilities and local governments, and the long-term vision for profitability through quality execution and customer experience, rather than solely on retail sales. The episode underscores Mercedes-Benz's ambition to make premium EV charging accessible to all drivers, positioning it as a critical step in the broader electrification of transportation. less
Rivian What Did You Do!? Major OTA Software Update Snafu
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast details a significant software update failure (2023.42 OTA) by Rivian that left numerous vehicles with severel... morey degraded functionality, impacting infotainment, climate control, and navigation. While the vehicles remain drivable for most, the failure to access essential features has caused considerable frustration. The root cause appears to be an accidental release of an internal build with an incorrect security certificate, bypassing crucial safeguards. Rivian's communication has been criticized as slow and limited, primarily through a Reddit post by the VP of Software, leaving affected owners uncertain about resolutions. Potential fixes discussed include a remote software patch or physical service, the latter posing challenges for global support. The incident highlights the risks associated with software-dependent vehicles and the critical need for robust testing and transparent communication from manufacturers. less
BMW Going Big Into Smart EV Charging! This Is ChargeForward
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast features an in-depth discussion with Adam Langton from BMW North America, focusing on their innovative ChargeF... moreorward smart EV charging program. Langton highlights the program's core benefit: optimizing EV charging to utilize renewable energy sources and reduce grid strain, primarily by shifting charging times to off-peak hours. A key takeaway is that ChargeForward requires no additional hardware for customers, operating digitally by communicating directly with the vehicle based on user-set departure times. The program aims to simplify EV ownership by making charging more sustainable and cost-effective, potentially reducing the perceived complexity and upfront cost of EVs. While V2G (Vehicle-to-Grid) technology is explored as a future capability, the current focus is on smart charging, with BMW actively collaborating with utilities and developing its own data feeds to enhance the program's reach and effectiveness across the US. less
Lucid Goes NACS At Long Last! Could Be Good News For High Voltage EVs | Episode 184
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast focuses on Lucid's significant decision to adopt the North American Charging Standard (NACS). The hosts, ... moreFrancie, Kyle, and former Lucid owner Dave, delve into the implications of this move. Dave offers personal insights as a past Lucid owner, while Kyle explores the potential impact on high-voltage EVs utilizing the Tesla Supercharger network. The discussion touches upon future expectations from both Lucid and Tesla regarding charging infrastructure and OEM collaborations. The episode also references Lucid's recent press releases on NACS adoption, COO appointment, and V2V technology, alongside external resources on EV charging and sales data. less
Honda Motocompacto First Ride Experience - Jordan's Review
Jordan provides an insightful first ride experience of the electric Honda Motocompacto, a micro-mobility scooter. While Honda's US EV presence is... more minimal, this "personal passion project" revives a concept from the 1980s. The Motocompacto is presented as a first/last mile solution, potentially complementing existing EVs or introducing electrification to new users. Jordan highlights its "Honda engineering and build quality" as a key differentiator from cheaper alternatives, despite not boasting class-leading specs. The scooter's top speed is 15 mph with a 12-mile range, charging in 3.5 hours. A significant critique is the lack of seamless integration with Honda's upcoming Prologue EV, particularly the absence of dedicated storage. Priced at $995, it's seen as a fun, albeit not highly utilitarian, toy that offers a unique way to engage with e-mobility. less
BMW Thinks Hydrogen Is Necessary - Here's Their Full Presentation
This presentation from BMW, featuring Juergen Guldner, outlines the company's strategic commitment to hydrogen fuel cell technology as a compleme... morentary solution to battery electric vehicles (BEVs) for achieving zero emissions by 2050. BMW highlights its 40-year history with hydrogen, emphasizing its role in storing and transporting renewable energy, particularly for heavy-duty transport and specific industrial processes. The iX5 Hydrogen prototype is presented as a mature, high-performance vehicle that combines electric driving dynamics with rapid refueling (3-4 minutes) and no range loss in cold climates. A key argument is that a dual infrastructure of BEV charging and hydrogen fueling is more cost-effective than an all-electric approach, especially in urban areas and for long-distance transport. While acknowledging efficiency losses in the hydrogen cycle, BMW argues that the cost-efficiency and utilization of renewable energy sources (especially excess energy) make it viable. The company plans to follow a similar development path as with BEVs, starting with a pilot fleet before a potential market introduction. Challenges like infrastructure reliability, particularly in the US, are noted, but BMW points to successful operations in Europe and Asia, driven by commercial vehicle demand. The presentation concludes that hydrogen fuel cell technology offers a flexible, scalable, and mature solution for decarbonizing mobility and other sectors. less
Tesla Hits 1 Million Sales In Europe What It Means For The Broader Market Episode 180
This podcast episode discusses Tesla's significant milestone of selling one million EVs in Europe, highlighting how this achievement positions Te... moresla within the broader European market. While Tesla remains a dominant force, the European EV landscape is characterized by a much wider array of choices from various manufacturers, including a strong influx of Chinese brands like BYD and MG, alongside established European automakers such as Stellantis and Renault. The discussion emphasizes key differences from the North American market, particularly the more robust and standardized CCS2 charging infrastructure in Europe, which avoids the reliability and standardization issues seen in the US. The episode also touches upon the educational challenges early EV adoption presented and how manufacturers are now better marketing and offering familiar model names with electric powertrains. The importance of a global perspective in the EV industry is stressed, advocating for clear standards and direction to facilitate continued growth and innovation. less
Leasing A Tesla Is Not The Move According To This Experience
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast delves into the complexities of leasing a Tesla, specifically a 2021 Long Range Model 3, through the firsthand... more experience of guest Colton. While initial lease pricing, particularly with incentives, appears attractive, the review strongly advises against leasing a Tesla due to significant drawbacks. The primary concerns highlighted are the exorbitant early termination fees, which can reach nearly $10,000, and the inability to buy out the vehicle at the end of the lease term. This effectively turns the lease into a rental with no equity building, leaving lessees financially trapped if their circumstances change or if they simply wish to exit the agreement. The hosts emphasize that Teslas are increasingly becoming commoditized 'appliances' that depreciate rapidly, making them poor candidates for leasing where flexibility and potential equity are typically valued. The consensus leans heavily towards purchasing an EV, especially given current market conditions, tax credits, and the potential for unexpected mileage overages on leases, which, while seemingly expensive, can sometimes be less costly than the penalties for early termination. less
First R1T Max Pack Road Trip! Miss GoElectric's Thoughts After 600+ Miles
Miss GoElectric shares her initial road trip experiences with the Rivian R1T Max Pack, covering over 600 miles from Michigan to Tennessee. She highlig... morehts the Max Pack's extended range as crucial for her lifestyle, despite acknowledging its high cost and the vehicle's current efficiency limitations, particularly with cabin heating. While praising the quiet ride and sound system, she points out significant areas for improvement in Rivian's Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS), noting they lag behind competitors and lack essential features like voice-to-text for messages. The review also touches on the challenges of public charging infrastructure, citing issues with hotel charging stations, and the broader need for better EV education among dealerships and site hosts. Ultimately, she recommends the Max Pack for those with specific range needs and demanding use cases, emphasizing that individual requirements should dictate the purchase decision. less
Tesla Now Selling V4 Superchargers Could Change The EV Charging Landscape
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast delves into BP's significant $100 million investment in Tesla's V4 Superchargers, a move poised to r... moreeshape the EV charging landscape. Hosts Francie and Branden Flasch explore the implications of Tesla selling its charging hardware to independent networks, highlighting BP's plan to deploy these 250kW chargers with Magic Docks across its network, including BP Pulse, am/pm, Thorntons, and Travel Centers of America locations. While the reliable hardware is a clear positive, the discussion raises critical questions about software maintenance, operational upkeep, and the potential loss of Tesla's integrated ecosystem advantage. The podcast also touches upon Tesla's strategic motivations, possibly driven by anti-trust concerns and NEVI funding requirements, necessitating OCPP compliance for V4 hardware. The conversation concludes by emphasizing the importance of maintenance and operational excellence, suggesting that other networks must adopt Tesla's rigorous standards to ensure a comparable user experience, even with Tesla's hardware. less
First Time EV Buyer Immediately Roadtrips 500 Miles
Justin, a first-time EV buyer, shares his experience purchasing a used 2019 Tesla Model 3 AWD Long Range and immediately embarking on a 500-mile road ... moretrip. The decision to switch was driven by the need for a more economical and lower-maintenance vehicle for his wife's substantial commute. While initially considering a new Chevy Bolt EUV, the Tesla ultimately won out due to its perceived roominess, better driving dynamics, and the wife's preference for the panoramic glass roof. The used EV tax credit played a crucial role, making the Model 3 financially competitive with the Bolt after incentives. Justin highlights the surprisingly seamless charging experience with Tesla's Supercharger network and the enjoyment of the car's acceleration and autopilot features during the drive. He also notes the significant cost savings compared to gasoline, estimating monthly savings of around $200 on fuel alone, plus reduced maintenance. Key advice for new buyers includes thorough research, asking dealerships for all details, especially when buying out of state, and understanding tax incentives. less
2024 Maybach EQS Pricing and Specs Announcements - Everything We Know
The Out of Spec Podcast team discusses the newly announced pricing and specifications for the 2024 Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV. While the $179,000 st... morearting price is acknowledged as high, the consensus is that it offers significant value when compared to other ultra-luxury vehicles, particularly gasoline-powered counterparts like the GLS. The electric powertrain's quietness and smoothness are seen as ideal for a vehicle where being driven is the primary use case, emphasizing the importance of the rear-seat experience. Despite Mercedes' strong sales in the EV market, the panel notes that the brand's technological advancements in EVs are not leading the industry, with competitors like BMW offering comparable or even more advanced features at lower price points. Concerns were raised about interior build quality, but the overall sentiment is that the Maybach EQS 680 appeals to buyers prioritizing brand prestige and luxury over cutting-edge technology. less
Charger Reliability Could Be Improved With Open Source Software - We Explain
This episode of the Out-of-Spec Podcast features Janek Metzner, Head of North America at PIONIX GmbH, discussing the critical need for open-source sof... moretware in improving EV charger reliability and interoperability. Metzner highlights how vague charging standards and inconsistent implementations lead to significant industry challenges. PIONIX, through its open-source project EVerest, aims to provide a unified, community-driven software stack that benefits both charger manufacturers and charge point operators. The discussion emphasizes the advantages of open source, offering a balance between the speed of commercial solutions and the control of in-house development. Metzner also touches upon the "Read Electric Avenue" newsletter, providing an insider's perspective on industry news and challenges, including the ongoing transition to NACS and the broader issues of charging infrastructure robustness. The conversation underscores the importance of collaboration and open standards for the continued growth and user experience improvement in the EV sector. less
Tesla Superchargers Should Support Up To 1,000 Volt Operation
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast delves into a critical aspect of EV charging infrastructure: Tesla's Supercharger network's voltage ... morelimitations. Host Kyle argues that Tesla must upgrade its Superchargers to support 1,000-volt operation to truly create an open and equitable charging network for all EVs. The discussion highlights how current 500-volt limitations hinder high-voltage vehicles like Lucid, Hyundai, Kia, Genesis, Porsche, and Audi, forcing them to rely on inefficient onboard boosters, significantly reducing charging speeds. While Dave acknowledges Tesla's strategic sequencing in prioritizing mass adoption of the NACS standard, he emphasizes that neglecting higher-voltage vehicles creates a "huge tough spot" for manufacturers like Lucid and their customers. The conversation also touches upon the potential for V3 Superchargers to be reconfigured and the uncertainty surrounding V4 hardware, stressing the need for clearer communication from Tesla regarding future voltage capabilities to encourage further NACS adoption. less
We Still Haven't Actually Seen A V4 Tesla Supercharger | Episode 162
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast delves into the confusion surrounding Tesla's V4 Supercharger hardware. The hosts clarify that while V4 d... moreispensers with longer cables and integrated Magic Docks are appearing in Europe and Asia, and under construction in North America, a true V4 charger (the power cabinet) has not yet been publicly seen. The core charging logic and power output appear to remain consistent with V3, leading to potential user confusion. The discussion also highlights the ongoing challenges with EV charging compatibility, particularly for high-voltage vehicles like the Lucid Air, and the communication gaps between manufacturers and consumers regarding charging capabilities. While V4 dispensers offer improvements like credit card readers and longer reach, the actual charging experience for most Teslas remains similar to V3, with the true V4 charging hardware still a mystery. less
Cybertruck Is Almost Here! Tesla Spills The Beans | Episode 161
The Out of Spec Podcast crew discusses the highly anticipated Tesla Cybertruck, focusing on the confirmed November 30th delivery event. While the deli... morevery date is set, key details like pricing and exact production numbers remain undisclosed, leading to speculation about initial delivery volumes, possibly between 50-100 units. The podcast confirms the adoption of an 800-volt architecture, a move seen as beneficial for cost savings and charging efficiency in such a heavy vehicle, though compatibility with existing charging infrastructure is a point of discussion. The hosts acknowledge the significant manufacturing challenges Tesla faces with the Cybertruck's unique stainless steel construction and design, with Elon Musk himself highlighting the project's difficulty. Despite the unknowns and polarizing design, the team expresses excitement for the vehicle's potential performance and capability, drawing parallels to competitors like the Hummer EV, Rivian R1T, and F-150 Lightning, all of which have launched ahead of the Cybertruck. The discussion also touches on potential customization options like wraps and the ongoing speculation about build quality. less
ChargePoint Introduces NACS Retrofit! Here’s How Station Upgrades Will Happen
ChargePoint is embracing the NACS standard by offering retrofit options for both AC and DC charging solutions. The company is rolling out NACS connect... moreors for its home (CPH) and fleet (CPF) products, allowing users to order them directly or convert existing units. For public AC charging (CP6000), NACS connectors are available, and conversion kits can be ordered for existing equipment. In the DC charging realm, the CP250 can be retrofitted with a NACS connector, and the Express Plus power block (PL1000) also supports NACS. The retrofit process is highlighted as simple and affordable, especially for home units, costing under $200 and not requiring an electrician. ChargePoint aims to simplify the transition for site hosts by enabling their chargers to serve all vehicle types without hosts needing to predict future demand. While NACS is the long-term goal, a mixed world of CCS and NACS is expected for several years. The company is also exploring solutions for older Tesla vehicles that may require a port retrofit to charge natively on NACS. less
EV Cross Country Roadtrip - Round Trip From Florida To Colorado In His Model 3
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast features a detailed account of a 3,800-mile round trip road trip from Florida to Colorado and back in a 2019 T... moreesla Model 3 Long Range RWD. The guest, Domenick, shares valuable insights into the realities of EV road-tripping, highlighting both the conveniences and challenges. A key takeaway is the average charging time at Superchargers, which was a surprisingly efficient 19 minutes, debunking the myth of excessively long stops. Domenick also discusses the importance of planning, especially in areas with sparser charging infrastructure, and the occasional unreliability of the car's navigation system in predicting range, which sometimes necessitated driving at reduced speeds. He emphasizes the benefits of using tools like TeslaFi for tracking trip data and the convenience of hotels offering EV charging. Despite some software prediction hiccups, the overall sentiment is positive, suggesting that EV road trips are more feasible and less daunting than many anticipate, especially with the expanding Supercharger network. less
Electric Overlanding Adventures Are Getting Easier And Easier! | Episode 155
Ryan shares his insights from the Tread Academy Traction Series Overlanding Summit, highlighting the growing accessibility of overlanding for EV owner... mores. A key takeaway was Optima Batteries' demonstration of a 55 kWh tow-behind battery, offering significant power for campsite amenities and vehicle charging, though its solar integration is primarily for daily electronics. The discussion also touched upon the suitability of lead-acid batteries for extreme overlanding conditions due to their reliability. Several overlanding products were showcased, including MORRFLATE for simultaneous tire inflation, Milestar tires with EV considerations, Hellwig suspension components, Rigid Industries lighting, HitchFire's hitch-mounted kitchen, Canyon Coolers for extended trips, Lance Off-road trailers, and the Shiftpod insulated shelter which provided exceptional warmth during cold nights. While the event wasn't exclusively EV-focused, the increasing presence of EV-specific solutions and considerations was evident, making overlanding more attainable for EV enthusiasts. less
EVs Are Becoming More Affordable Year Over Year
The Out of Spec Podcast episode delves into the surprising affordability trend in the EV market, highlighting a significant 20% decrease in average tr... moreansaction prices year-over-year, amounting to roughly $14,000. Despite this substantial drop, the hosts note that consumer hesitancy persists, with cost, range, and charging remaining key concerns. Max Patton points to a lack of consumer education and understanding of EV-specific metrics as major hurdles, suggesting automakers need to improve dealer training. The conversation also touches on the impact of increased supply and eased production bottlenecks, rather than a surge in demand or more affordable EV models, as the primary driver for price reductions. While acknowledging the positive price movement and upcoming point-of-sale tax credits, both hosts express skepticism about the pace of truly affordable EV options becoming widely available, citing battery production costs and geopolitical factors as ongoing challenges. less
Battery Storage Solutions Could Convince More Site Hosts To Install DC Fast Chargers
This episode of the Out-of-Spec Podcast features an in-depth discussion with Arcady Sosinov, CEO and Founder of FreeWire Technologies. The core of the... more conversation revolves around FreeWire's innovative approach to DC fast charging, particularly its integrated battery storage solution designed to circumvent utility upgrade limitations and reduce costs for site hosts. Sosinov highlights the company's evolution from hardware supplier to a full-service provider, offering software management, field support, and site planning through its 'Mobilize' platform. A key takeaway is the cost-effectiveness of FreeWire's system, which, despite a higher initial hardware price, becomes more economical when factoring in avoided utility infrastructure costs and the lucrative energy storage tax credit (up to 50%) available nationwide, unlike the more restricted EV charging tax credit. The discussion also delves into the technical specifications of the Boost Charger, including its 200kW output, 160kWh battery, and impressive cold-weather performance tested down to -40°C. Future developments like the 'Boost Charger Pro' with DC linking and a standalone battery pack are also touched upon, alongside the company's commitment to in-house R&D and battery lifecycle considerations, favoring metal extraction and reuse over second-life applications. Challenges such as NEVI funding delays and industry reliability are acknowledged, but Sosinov remains motivated by the accelerating EV adoption and the company's innovative role. less