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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Showing 24 of 580 total titles. Page 21 of 25.
Volkswagen Exploring NACS! Our Candid Conversation With VW About Charging Reliability
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast delves into Volkswagen's stance on adopting the North American Charging Standard (NACS) and the persisten... moret charging reliability issues faced by their EV owners in the US, primarily with Electrify America (EA). Host Kyle recounts a candid conversation with Pablo Di Si, CEO of Volkswagen North America, highlighting a stark contrast between EV charging experiences in Europe and the US. While European charging is generally seamless, US owners frequently encounter problems with EA, including slow charging, failed sessions, and non-functional stations. Volkswagen acknowledges the issue and states they are 'continuing to explore' the NACS option, a move seen as positive but lacking urgency. Disappointingly, VW appears to place significant trust in EA's self-reported data, despite evidence from Rate Your Charge and anecdotal reports suggesting otherwise. The podcast emphasizes that reliable public charging is crucial for EV adoption, citing a personal anecdote of a VW ID.4 owner who traded their EV for a gasoline car due to charging frustrations. The hosts advocate for automakers to personally experience charging challenges to better understand customer pain points. less
Everything We Know About The Electric VW GTI - Technical, Styling, & Market Decisions
The Out of Spec Podcast dives into the highly anticipated Volkswagen ID. GTI Concept, a production-bound electric hot hatch based on the ID. 2all. Hos... moret Kyle expresses significant enthusiasm, calling it "everything I've been wanting in a car" and a potential game-changer for the US market, despite initial skepticism about concept cars. The review highlights the concept's styling, which aims for a balance of stability and cheekiness, drawing inspiration from classic GTI models. Key technical details discussed include its expected front-wheel-drive configuration, a 58 kWh battery pack, and a projected output around 200-230 horsepower, enhanced by a limited-slip front differential. The interior features innovative elements like "play/pause" pedals reimagined as "stop/fast forward," customizable ambient lighting, and a new UI, though some features like a heart-rate tracking button are deemed gimmicky. The reviewer praises the focus on performance, including adjustable suspension, ESP modes for sliding, and track-focused HUD features, suggesting it's built for "hardcore driving." While acknowledging the potential for a higher price point ($35-40k) than the standard ID.2, the overall sentiment is that if Volkswagen delivers on the "spicy enough," "fun and tossable" driving experience, this electric GTI could recapture the brand's lost mojo and become the ultimate daily driver. less
New 800V Mercedes EV Platform Announced For Their Entry-Level Cars! CLA Concept Unveil | Episode 117
The Out of Spec Podcast hosts discuss the highly anticipated Mercedes-Benz Concept CLA Class, built on the new 800-volt Modular Architecture (MMA) pla... moretform. The vehicle promises impressive efficiency, targeting over 5 miles per kWh and offering 250 kW charging speeds, capable of reaching 53% charge in 15 minutes. Mercedes is offering two battery options: an NCM with silicon oxide anode and a more accessible LFP. The platform supports multiple body styles, including a four-door coupe, shooting brake, and two SUVs, with initial production slated for Germany, Hungary, and China. While the technical specifications, particularly the efficiency focus derived from the Vision EQXX, are commendable, the hosts express concerns about the potential over-complication of features like a two-speed gearbox on an entry-level model and the excessive use of Mercedes-Benz logos on the exterior and interior. The limited availability of advanced driver-assistance systems on lower trims, despite the inclusion of lidar, is also noted as a drawback. Overall, the Concept CLA represents a significant step for Mercedes-Benz's entry-level EVs, but its success will hinge on cost competitiveness and a less ostentatious design approach. less
Behind The Scenes Of Charger Software - Kempower's Chargeye | Episode 115
This episode delves into Kempower's Chargeye software, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at the management systems powering their charging s... moretations. The reviewer highlights the software's advanced capabilities, particularly its ability to identify individual vehicles through unique charging session markers and even license plate recognition in certain regions. The system's real-time monitoring of individual charging modules, power delivery, and temperature provides unprecedented insight into station operations. A key takeaway is the software's predictive power, estimating charging times to completion based on historical data and vehicle type. The reviewer praises Kempower's proactive approach to software updates, allowing for local installation and rollback to previous versions to ensure stability. While Chargeye itself doesn't handle billing, it integrates with CPO backends for a comprehensive charging experience. The episode underscores the critical role of sophisticated software in modern EV charging infrastructure, moving beyond hardware reliability to address interoperability and user experience challenges. less
How to Engineer Great Charging Hardware - Featuring Kempower | Episode 114
This episode delves into the engineering intricacies of Kempower's charging hardware, featuring insights from Mikko Verikkolainen, Head of RT and... more CTO. The discussion highlights Kempower's early involvement in EV charging technology, dating back to 2012-2013, and their consistent product roadmap. A key focus is the modular, centralized power system architecture, which allows for dynamic power distribution to multiple charging satellites, optimizing grid connection and efficiency by adapting to individual vehicle charging curves. The review emphasizes Kempower's robust design philosophy, rooted in their sister company's extensive experience with harsh-environment welding power supplies, enabling exceptional reliability even in challenging conditions like offshore rigs. This includes their decision for air cooling within the power modules and a sophisticated load-balancing strategy to ensure longevity across all components. The conversation also touches upon the upcoming NACS standard, with Kempower confirming early testing and the expectation of a simple cable-swap implementation for customers, facilitated by their in-house vehicle communication software development. less
Electrify America System Glitch Just Ahead Of Memorial Day Travel Weekend
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast details a significant system glitch affecting Electrify America's charging network just before the Memori... moreal Day travel weekend. The hosts highlight how the app displayed a large number of CCS chargers as offline, rendering them unusable for drivers. They report that even attempting to initiate charging via the app or credit card reader often failed, with some stations showing only one available charger or none at all. The lack of proactive communication from Electrify America on social media or via email is heavily criticized, with the hosts emphasizing that transparency is crucial, especially during peak travel times. While acknowledging that glitches happen, the scale and timing of this outage, coupled with poor communication, are seen as detrimental to driver confidence in the EV charging infrastructure, potentially leading some to opt for gasoline vehicles or Teslas for holiday travel. less
Ford Adding Tesla Plug To Their EVs, Gaining Supercharger Access - Here's What We Know
Ford's decision to adopt Tesla's North American Charging Standard (NACS) port for future EVs and offer adapters for current models marks a s... moreignificant strategic shift, hailed as a visionary move by industry commentators. While the announcement, made via an informal Twitter Space, surprised many, it is expected to trigger a wave of similar adoptions by other automakers. The primary benefit highlighted is access to Tesla's extensive and reliable Supercharger network, addressing a key pain point for non-Tesla EV owners regarding charging infrastructure reliability. Although the adapter is slated for release in Spring 2024 and integrated ports in 2025, the move is seen as a major win for Ford EV owners, enhancing convenience and reducing range anxiety. The long-term implications for the EV market dynamics and Tesla's role as an energy distributor are profound, potentially reshaping competition and accelerating EV adoption. less
Here's How Kempower Will Create A Reliable EV Charging Network In America
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast features a deep dive with Tomi, CEO of Kempower, focusing on the company's strategy for establishing reli... moreable EV charging infrastructure in the US. Kempower, with its roots in harsh Nordic climates, emphasizes a heritage-based design philosophy prioritizing modularity, ease of repair, and robust electronics built for outdoor use. Key to their reliability is a sophisticated software system capable of remote diagnostics, identifying car charging behaviors to preemptively address compatibility issues, and a unique approach to over-the-air updates that allows for easy rollbacks. Hardware reliability is addressed through thoughtful design, such as spring-loaded cable connectors and engineering that ensures water drainage. Kempower's modular system allows for power sharing and continued operation even if individual components fail. While acknowledging the challenges of the vast US landscape for service and maintenance, Kempower is building a partner network to ensure timely on-site support. The discussion also touches on the company's experience with extreme temperatures, including heat, and their innovative solutions for marine applications. Overall, Kempower presents a compelling case for reliable charging, leveraging extensive experience from demanding environments to tackle the US market. less
Kempower Is Coming To America! Reliable Charging Is Right Around The Corner | Episode 106
This episode of the Out-of-Spec Podcast features an insightful discussion with Tomi, CEO of Kempower, focusing on the company's expansion into th... moree United States. Kempower, known for its stylish and reliable DC fast chargers, is establishing a U.S. factory in Durham, North Carolina, to meet growing demand and comply with local funding requirements. The conversation highlights Kempower's unique approach to charging infrastructure, emphasizing dynamic power distribution to serve a high volume of EVs efficiently and mitigate 'charging anxiety' rather than range anxiety. Tomi stresses the importance of user experience, with their system allowing power to be shifted to newer arrivals as earlier vehicles taper off. The company's modular design also allows for easy power upgrades. While specific U.S. power levels are discussed, the core message is Kempower's commitment to reliability and user-centric design, aiming to address the current shortcomings in the U.S. charging landscape. less
EVgo Is Having Serious Trouble At Many Of Their Brand New Charging Sites
This episode of the Out-of-Spec Podcast highlights significant reliability issues with EVgo's brand-new charging sites. Both hosts, Branden Flasc... moreh and the primary speaker, detail their frustrating experiences with newly installed Delta 350kW dispensers and 100kW City Chargers, which are failing within months, sometimes even weeks, of deployment. Key problems include chargers not latching, error messages, and complete site outages that are not promptly updated on the network or app. The hosts criticize EVgo's slow response to reported issues, often requiring direct contact with internal staff to get sites marked offline. They contrast this with Tesla's Supercharger reliability and suggest EVgo needs to prioritize operational reliability and improve communication with drivers, rather than relying on drivers to report problems or internal contacts to expedite fixes. The core issue appears to be a lack of robust processes for identifying and marking offline chargers, despite available data and user reports. less
Here's What Happened After The "They Don't Work In The Cold" Video
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast delves into the critical issue of Electrify America's new charging hardware failing in cold weather condi... moretions. The hosts, Branden Flasch and Kyle Conner, detail their experiences and those of viewers, where newly installed BTC (now Signet) chargers in Colorado were rendered inoperable at temperatures as mild as 0-5 degrees Fahrenheit. Despite the hardware being rated for much lower temperatures, a "false isolation test error" prevented charging for multiple vehicle types, including Rivian, Polestar 2, Audi e-tron, and Hyundai Ioniq 5/6. The hosts express significant disappointment with Electrify America's lack of transparency and response, noting the network's silence and the potential for stranded drivers due to inaccurate status reporting. They contrast this with Tesla's proactive approach to Supercharger maintenance. The core issue appears to be a potential engineering fault with the BTC hardware in cold weather, exacerbated by a perceived lack of thorough testing by EA, who co-engineered the units. The verdict is clear: the current CCS network is unreliable for road trips, and drivers cannot trust it for hassle-free travel. less
Ev Drivers Need A Voice! We're Launching Rate Your Charge | Episode 102
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast introduces 'Rate Your Charge,' a new platform aimed at addressing the widespread issues with public ... moreEV charging infrastructure. The hosts, Kyle and Alyssa, highlight the critical problem of non-functional chargers, which negatively impacts EV adoption and owner experience, especially during peak travel times. They share personal anecdotes, including a particularly frustrating experience at an Electrify America station in Florida where multiple chargers were down, leaving drivers stranded. The platform's genesis stems from a desire to give EV drivers a unified voice to pressure charging network operators (CPOs) like Electrify America, EVgo, and ChargePoint to improve reliability and maintenance. Currently operating as a Twitter feed, Rate Your Charge encourages users to share detailed experiences, including videos and photos, of their charging sessions. The hosts emphasize that the goal is not to bash companies but to provide accurate, real-time data that CPOs and even automakers can use to identify and fix problems. They express optimism about the platform's potential to evolve into an app or a data-gathering service that could even be monetized, with revenue potentially shared with drivers contributing data. The initiative is positioned as a crucial step for 2023 to ensure the success of EV transition by tackling charging reliability head-on. less
We're Going to Visit Every Fast Charger on Oahu in a Mustang Mach-E
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast details an ambitious plan to visit every fast charger on Oahu using a rented Ford Mustang Mach-E California Ro... moreute 1. The hosts highlight the importance of reliable charging infrastructure, especially in locations like Hawaii where gas is expensive and difficult to transport. The chosen vehicle, a RWD California Route 1 Mach-E, is noted for its range optimization, making it suitable for island driving despite not being the most performance-oriented trim. The plan involves auditing CCS and potentially CHAdeMO chargers, with a brief stop at the island's sole Tesla Supercharger. The hosts express enthusiasm for covering more Ford EV content and are optimistic about the Mach-E's suitability for Hawaii's temperate climate and shorter distances, though they acknowledge potential issues like weather and saltwater proximity for the charging stations. less
Here's Every Type Of DC Fast Charger Load Sharing Strategy
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast delves deep into the technical intricacies of DC fast charger load sharing and management strategies. Hosts Ky... morele and Branden explore various methods, from individual charger pairing to full site-wide load balancing, highlighting the practical implications for EV owners and site operators. They discuss the frustrations of uneven power distribution, particularly with paired chargers like some Electrify America and EVgo units, where one vehicle can significantly limit the power available to another. The conversation also covers Tesla's V3 Supercharger architecture, praising its elegant DC bus system for seamless power sharing across multiple cabinets and vehicles. The hosts emphasize the cost-saving benefits of load management for grid connections and demand charges, while also acknowledging the potential for leaving power on the table. Ultimately, the episode advocates for a 'move power, not cars' philosophy, suggesting that more ports than total power capacity, managed intelligently, can lead to a better user experience and more efficient infrastructure deployment. less
We're Annoyed With How Inefficient Our EV Trucks Are When Traveling Through Rural Areas
This episode of the Out-of-Spec Podcast highlights a significant pain point for owners of large, inefficient EVs like the Rivian R1T: the inadequacy o... moref current charging infrastructure, particularly outside major corridors. Hosts Branden Flasch and Kyle Conner express frustration with slow charging speeds (62.5 kW and below) encountered in rural areas, which, combined with the trucks' low efficiency (around 1.8 miles/kWh), makes for painfully long charging stops. They argue that 50 kW DC fast charging is no longer sufficient for these vehicles and that even higher-rated chargers can be bottlenecked by cable limitations (200 amps) and load management. The discussion emphasizes that while these trucks are capable on main highways with high-power chargers, daily driving and quick top-ups in less developed areas expose their inefficiency. The hosts call for a multi-pronged solution including faster AC charging, more prevalent high-power DC charging, and potentially larger batteries, while also lamenting the current limitations of onboard chargers and charging standards. less
VW Finally Announces Software 3.1 Upgrade For Older ID.4 - But Is It Enough? Episode 98
Volkswagen's latest software update (3.1) for older ID.4 models is a step in the right direction, but the hosts remain skeptical about its suffic... moreiency. While the update, which requires a dealer visit and a 12V battery replacement for 2021 models, brings older cars closer to the functionality of the 2023 models (like improved charging speed displays and auto-hold), key features like Plug & Charge and battery preconditioning are still missing. The review highlights persistent software glitches, even in newer 2023 models, and the frustrating user experience with the car's app and interface. Despite the car's excellent driving dynamics, comfort, and value, the software issues continue to hamper the ID.4's potential, making it a questionable choice as a primary vehicle for those who rely heavily on seamless software integration, especially compared to competitors like Tesla. less
Here's What We Think About The Tesla Semi After The Delivery Event
The InsideEVs podcast hosts discuss the Tesla Semi following its delivery event, highlighting its striking aerodynamic design and driver-centric inter... moreior. While details on pricing, sales numbers, and exact battery capacity remain scarce, the hosts confirm a dual-motor rear axle setup, likely utilizing Plaid-derived motors with a new clutch disconnect feature. They praise the truck's potential for lower cost-per-mile and reduced driver fatigue due to its electric powertrain and smoother ride. However, concerns are raised about the claimed 500-mile range, with a more realistic expectation of 400 miles for typical long-haul use. The discussion also touches upon the new Megawatt charging standard and the infrastructure required, suggesting the Semi is best suited for shorter, predictable routes initially. Despite some unknowns, the consensus is that the Tesla Semi represents a significant leap forward in electric trucking technology, outperforming competitors and offering a glimpse into the future of commercial transport. less
Tesla's North American Charging Standard - All Technical Information Explained
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast delves into the technical specifics of Tesla's newly opened North American Charging Standard (NACS). Whil... moree acknowledging the physical advantages of the Tesla connector (lighter, slimmer, combined AC/DC), the hosts emphasize that this announcement primarily addresses the connector itself and not the user experience or communication protocols. Key takeaways include the potential for higher voltage DC charging (up to 1000V/1000A), the fallback communication to J1772 for AC charging, and the limitations of the AC charging amperage (48A) compared to J1772. The discussion highlights the industry's mixed reactions, the critical need for automakers to adopt NACS for it to become mainstream, and the potential for adapters to ease the transition. The hosts express a desire for a unified standard, favoring the NACS connector for its user-friendliness, but note that the timing might be too late for widespread industry impact. less
The End Of Ccs?! Tesla Opening Up North American Charging Standard For All To Use | Episode 92
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast delves into Tesla's significant announcement regarding the North American Charging Standard (NACS). The h... moreosts discuss Tesla's decision to open up its connector design, making it available to other manufacturers. A key takeaway is the potential financial motivation behind this move, particularly Tesla's aim to qualify for billions in federal funding for charging infrastructure expansion by meeting the requirement of supporting multiple vehicle brands. While the NACS connector is praised for its ease of use and potential for higher amperage (900A continuous) and bi-directional charging capabilities, the hosts acknowledge the immediate confusion for consumers and the long road ahead for automakers to adopt the standard. They express skepticism about a rapid shift, suggesting it could take years for manufacturers to integrate NACS into their vehicle designs. The discussion highlights that this announcement is primarily a strategic and economic play, with minimal immediate impact on the average EV consumer, who is still awaiting the release of adapters for Supercharger access. less
Volvo EX90 Full Details and Specs of This Brand New Electric 7-Seat SUV
The Volvo EX90 represents a significant leap forward for the brand, serving as the electric successor to the XC90 while initially being sold alongside... more its combustion counterpart. Built on the new SPA 2 platform, it shares underpinnings with the Polestar 3 but adopts a more visually appealing, traditional SUV design. The EX90 offers two powertrain configurations: a standard twin-motor setup with 402 hp and a performance version with 496 hp, both utilizing a 107 kWh usable battery pack. Volvo targets an EPA range of 300 miles, though reviewers express surprise at this conservative estimate given the battery size and the vehicle's drag coefficient of 0.29. Key highlights include a luxurious and sustainable interior featuring wool blends and recycled materials, a sophisticated driver assistance system integrating lidar into the roofline, and advanced safety features like interior driver monitoring. Charging is capable of a 250 kW peak rate (10-80% in 30 minutes), and bi-directional charging (V2L) will be supported. While not as overtly flashy as some competitors, the EX90's minimalist Scandinavian design and focus on safety and sustainability are praised, positioning it as a compelling, practical, and premium family electric SUV. less
Solar Energy And The Complexities Of Grid Exchanges
This episode of the Out-of-Spec Podcast delves into the complexities of solar energy integration with utility grids, featuring insights from Marcus Jo... moreo of EnergyPal. The discussion highlights that while solar power offers significant benefits, the process is far from simple, especially concerning interactions with utility companies. Key takeaways include the varying net metering policies across different utility types (investor-owned, municipal, co-ops), with investor-owned utilities often offering the most favorable terms despite initial expectations. The episode clarifies that grid-tied systems are the most common, negating the immediate need for expensive battery storage for most homeowners, though battery incentives are growing. Practical hurdles like roof condition and main electrical panel upgrades are also addressed, alongside the crucial role of government incentives, particularly the federal solar tax credit. The conversation emphasizes that while financial constraints and regulatory complexities exist, solar energy remains attainable and offers a strong return on investment, often exceeding 10 years payback, especially when bundled with EV charging solutions. less
European EVs That The USA Doesn't Get! Part 2
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast delves into five European EVs unavailable in the US, highlighting the "forbidden fruit" of the Europ... moreean market. The hosts, Jordan and Max, express a desire for more compact and affordable EV options, contrasting them with the US market's focus on larger, long-range vehicles due to infrastructure differences. The Cupra Born is praised for its sporty performance and striking design, while the Renault Zoe E-Tech is noted as a popular, budget-friendly city car with a surprisingly large battery for its size. The VW ID.3 is presented as an electric Golf alternative, though concerns about its software are raised. The MG4 EV is highlighted for its aggressive pricing and compelling value proposition, despite a polarizing design. Finally, the new Smart #1, particularly the Brabus version, impresses with its performance and unique styling, positioning itself as a strong competitor in the premium small SUV segment. The overarching sentiment is that the US market misses out on a diverse range of smaller, more accessible EVs that are prevalent in Europe. less
Ceramic Coating Is The Best Way To Protect Your Vehicle's Condition
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast delves into the world of ceramic coatings, demystifying the process and its benefits for vehicle owners. Host ... moreJordan and detailing expert Colton discuss that ceramic coatings are not a 'set it and forget it' solution, emphasizing their primary role in vehicle maintenance and protection rather than a replacement for washing. They differentiate ceramic coatings from traditional waxes and sealants, highlighting the significantly longer durability of coatings, ranging from one to ten years. The conversation touches upon the chemical compositions of various coatings, the challenges of real-world testing versus lab results, and the importance of proper application techniques. Colton shares his experience with different brands, including Gtechniq and Gyeon, and explains why he favors coatings with a 3-5 year lifespan, advocating for periodic repolishing and recoating. The episode also briefly covers coating applications for plastic trim, noting the UV protection benefits. Ultimately, the review underscores that while ceramic coatings require maintenance, they significantly ease the cleaning process and protect paint from environmental contaminants, making them a valuable investment for those who want to preserve their vehicle's appearance. less
European EVs That The USA Doesn't Get! Part 1
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast delves into five European electric vehicles unavailable in the USA, sparking envy among American viewers. The ... morehosts highlight the Honda e for its iconic design and futuristic interior, despite its high price and limited range. The Fiat 500e is praised for its stylish retro-modern looks, improved range (around 190 miles WLTP), faster charging, and significantly lower starting price compared to the Honda e, making it a top contender. The Kia Soul EV is noted for its substantial upgrades over previous generations, offering up to 243 miles (WLTP 282 miles) of range, 201 horsepower, and a practical, bold design reminiscent of a mini Range Rover, though at a premium price. The Opel Mokka-e and Peugeot e-208, sharing a platform, are presented as competent small crossovers/hatchbacks with around 240 miles (WLTP) of range and 100 kW DC fast charging, with the Peugeot e-208 being slightly more affordable and sportier. While all are desirable, the Fiat 500e and Peugeot e-208 emerge as particularly compelling budget-friendly options. less