Out of Spec Reviews

My First Look At The Scout Pickup & SUV! EREV, Software, Interior & Exterior Tour

The Scout Terra pickup and Traveler SUV represent a bold re-entry into the automotive market, emphasizing ruggedness and a unique Extended Range Elect... moreric Vehicle (EREV) option. The reviewer highlights the vehicles' striking, chunky design, solid axle construction, and off-road capabilities, drawing comparisons to the Rivian R1T and R1S but positioning Scout as potentially more affordable and rugged. A key takeaway is the EREV system, which the reviewer enthusiastically endorses for its ability to provide EV driving dynamics with the confidence of quick refueling, particularly beneficial for towing and long-distance adventures. The interior design is praised for its premium yet unpretentious feel, with thoughtful details and materials, though some minor ergonomic suggestions are made. The software experience, leveraging a Rivian/VW joint venture electrical architecture, shows promise with its focus on a helpful companion philosophy and multitasking capabilities, despite being in a prototype stage. However, questions linger regarding Scout's compressed two-year development timeline, the potential for feature reduction to meet price targets, and whether the brand's legacy resonates enough with a new generation of EV buyers. less

4 Months Of Running Our Own DC Fast Charger! XCharge NZS Good & Bad With All Of The Data

After four months of operation and over 800 charging sessions, the Out of Spec team shares their experience with the X Charge Net Zero Series DC fast ... morecharger. The standout feature is the integrated battery storage, which allows for slow charging from the grid (30kW) to avoid demand charges, and then rapid dispensing to vehicles. This battery integration was the key enabler for installing a 180kW DC charger without grid upgrades. The reviewer praises the extensive data provided by the charger's software platform, offering deep insights into charging sessions and battery health. Native NACS and CCS connectors are also highlighted as a significant advantage. However, the installation location and cable management are criticized for being awkward and causing cable damage. Early reliability issues, including communication bugs with Teslas and a fried control board, were encountered but have since been resolved through prompt service from X Charge, leading to a now reliable unit. The reviewer plans to implement a paid charging system to cover maintenance costs and suggests future improvements like better cable management and potentially a wrap for the unit. less

Amazing Highway ADAS! BMW i7 Tops The Charts In The Hogback Challenge

The BMW i7's advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) is put to the ultimate test on the challenging Hogback route, and it largely excels, earnin... moreg "Kyle's choice" for highway ADAS. The reviewer highlights its exceptional comfort, quietness, and refinement, noting it's the closest one can get to a Rolls-Royce without the badge. While the i7's charging capabilities and efficiency are acknowledged as not class-leading, the ADAS performance, particularly its hands-free highway driving and robust emergency stop sequence (including calling emergency services), significantly overshadows these shortcomings. The system's smooth operation, advanced eye-tracking confirmation for lane changes, and comprehensive safety features are praised. However, the i7 did struggle with some particularly tight corners and experienced occasional issues with speed limit adaptation and auto lane changes, leading to point deductions. Despite these minor drawbacks, the reviewer concludes that the i7 offers the most confidence-inspiring and natural-feeling highway ADAS experience currently available, making it a compelling, albeit expensive, choice for those prioritizing comfort and advanced driver assistance. less

I Drive The Electric Mercedes G-Class For The First Time! Full Tour + On & Off Road Experience

The Mercedes G580e, or electric G-Class, is reviewed as a highly capable and desirable electric SUV, albeit with some compromises. Reviewers praise it... mores incredible off-road prowess, solid build quality, and the unique G-Class aura, noting it retains its legendary durability and utilitarian appeal in an electric package. The four-motor setup provides immense power and impressive torque vectoring for off-road scenarios and spirited canyon driving. However, significant drawbacks include a disappointing onboard charger (40 amps), leading to long home charging times (13 hours for a full charge), and a CCS port design that is considered outdated. Real-world highway range is estimated at a modest 220-240 miles, with efficiency around 1.6 miles per kWh, better than a Hummer EV but less than ideal for a premium EV. The driver assistance systems are also criticized for being basic compared to other Mercedes models. Despite these issues, the G580e is lauded for its unique engineering, comfortable ride, and the sheer 'cool factor' that makes it a compelling, albeit expensive, electric vehicle for those who value its heritage and capability. less

Visiting Kempower USA To See What’s Coming For Their DC Fast Charging Business In 2025

This video offers an impromptu, behind-the-scenes look at Kempower's North Carolina facility, focusing on their DC fast charging technology and f... moreuture plans for 2025. The reviewer, a self-proclaimed Kempower enthusiast, highlights the user-friendly experience and robust cable management characteristic of Kempower units, particularly in Europe. The visit showcases the impressive modularity and power density of their charging stations, with a deep dive into the software backend that provides detailed charging data, including voltage, amperage, and pin temperatures. A key takeaway is Kempower's adaptive voltage feature, allowing them to series connect power modules for higher voltage charging, addressing a critical need for modern EVs. The discussion also touches upon the challenges of EV infrastructure deployment in the US, primarily utility connection delays, and Kempower's strategy to mitigate this through modular expansion and advanced software for power management. The company's commitment to 'Build America, Buy America' compliance and their expansion into fleet and off-road segments are also noted, with anticipation for new site deployments in early 2025. less

Lucid Air Highway Assist Shows The Limits of Pre-Mapped Systems In Our Challenging Highway ADAS Test

The Lucid Air Grand Touring's "Dream Drive Pro" system was tested on a challenging highway section, revealing significant limitations p... morerimarily due to its reliance on pre-mapped routes. While the system demonstrated competence on straights and during some lane changes, its performance deteriorated significantly in areas with construction, sharp turns, or unmapped sections, often disengaging or exhibiting nervous, overcorrecting behavior. The reviewer noted that the system's inability to function reliably outside of pre-mapped highways, despite having advanced hardware like lidar, is a major drawback. The "unresponsive driver" scenario could not be fully tested due to system limitations. Despite these issues, the reviewer expressed cautious optimism, highlighting Lucid's strong hardware and history of improving systems via updates, but concluded that the current iteration is inconsistent and not recommended for challenging roads, placing it in the middle of the pack for ADAS performance. less

Inside An Ev Repair Shop! Konduit Ev Revives Old Tesla, Leafs, Rav4

This video offers an in-depth look at Konduit EV, a specialist repair shop focusing on older or out-of-warranty electric vehicles. The founders, Brian... more and Brent, explain their transition from QC Charge to Konduit EV, emphasizing their focus on repair rather than module replacement, particularly for models like the Nissan Leaf, Tesla Model S (with Large Drive Units), RAV4 EV, and Mercedes B-Class. Key services highlighted include battery rebuilds and replacements, coolant deletes for Tesla's Large Drive Units (LDUs) to prevent catastrophic failure, and specialized parts fabrication. The shop demonstrates its expertise by detailing repairs on a 2013 Model S and a 2022 Nissan Leaf, where they saved a customer significant money compared to dealership quotes. The review praises Konduit EV's niche in providing affordable, expert service for aging EVs, effectively extending their lifespan and value. less

Volkswagen ID. Buzz vs Kia EV9! The Best Electric Family Hauler

The Volkswagen ID. Buzz and Kia EV9 are pitted against each other as the ultimate electric family haulers, with a Kia Carnival Hybrid also considered ... moreas a more budget-friendly alternative. While the EV9, a previous winner in family SUV comparisons, boasts excellent interior space, family tech, and competitive leasing deals, the ID. Buzz impresses with its retro-modern styling and spacious interior, particularly in the third row. However, the ID. Buzz falls short in range due to poor aerodynamics and a smaller battery, and its charging performance is only slightly better than the EV9. The EV9's software is criticized as "dog crap" and its route planning is deemed terrible, while the ID. Buzz's software is praised for significant improvements, though its capacitive buttons and some interior materials are points of contention. Ultimately, the ID. Buzz offers more passenger space and a more engaging, fun driving experience, making it a compelling, albeit less efficient, choice for families prioritizing style and interior room over outright range. less

Tesla Model 3 vs Chinese Equivalent

The IM L6 presents a compelling, feature-rich alternative to the Tesla Model 3 Performance, particularly in the Chinese market. While priced significa... morently lower (around $42,000 for the performance trim versus $54,000 for the Model 3 Performance), it boasts impressive specs, including over 750 horsepower, advanced semi-solid state battery technology with rapid charging capabilities, and unique features like crab walk and a hatchback design. The interior offers a luxurious feel with large displays and extensive software functions, though the reviewer notes the materials are not as premium as some competitors like the Xiaomi SU7. Driving dynamics are praised, with rear-wheel steering contributing to agility, and the car offers a comfortable and quiet ride. However, limited rear visibility and a less refined steering wheel are noted drawbacks. The reviewer highlights that while the IM L6 offers immense value and advanced tech, the Tesla Model 3 still holds an edge in overall refinement and potentially safety, though the competitive landscape in China is rapidly evolving. less

This Rivian Outpost Charging Hub Is Open For All EVs & Perfect For DCFC In The Desert!

The Rivian Outpost Charging Hub in Joshua Tree offers a unique and immersive charging experience, moving beyond basic utility to create a destination.... more The reviewer highlights the aesthetically pleasing design that complements the desert environment and praises Rivian's commitment to reliability and rapid network expansion. A significant development is Rivian opening its network to all EVs, demonstrated by successfully charging a Mercedes G-Wagon. The reviewer appreciates the straightforward payment process via credit card tap, though notes the higher per-kWh cost for non-Rivian vehicles. The hub's amenities, including restrooms, local artisan shops, a lounge, and even test drives of Rivian vehicles, are lauded as excellent additions that enhance the charging stop into an experience. While the reviewer praises the overall concept and execution, they express a desire for improved power-sharing capabilities between chargers, similar to Tesla's Supercharger network, and note the potential for charging speed limitations when sharing cabinets. The site's integration as a sales center and experience hub is seen as a smart marketing strategy. less

The Wuling Binguo Is An $8,000 Electric Car From China

The Wuling Binguo emerges as a compelling, albeit niche, urban electric vehicle, primarily distinguished by its astonishingly low price point, startin... moreg at $8,000 and topping out at $12,000 for the fully-specced 50 kW model. Reviewers found its design "adorable" and "cute," making it an appealing option for city commuting. The interior, while basic, is functional, offering comfortable seats and surprisingly ample trunk space. Performance is adequate for urban environments, with the 50 kW motor providing enough zip, though it's not intended for highway use. Key criticisms include a lack of premium feel, basic braking power that didn't even trigger ABS in tests, and a turning radius that was deemed "not great." Despite its limitations, the Binguo's value proposition is undeniable, offering a new, warranted EV for a fraction of the cost of many competitors, positioning it as a "fun one to have" for short-distance city travel. less

Ionna Charging Network Launches Now! We Brought Our Viewers To Stress Test Their First Site

The IONNA charging network has officially soft-launched with its first site in Apex, North Carolina, and the initial impressions are overwhelmingly po... moresitive. The event, attended by numerous EV enthusiasts and viewers, focused on stress-testing the new Altronix Hyper 400 chargers. Reviewers highlighted the seamless user experience, from the simple tap-to-pay authorization to the robust, oil-cooled 600-amp cables that feel akin to Supercharger units. The pricing, initially a nominal 1 cent/kWh for the event, was noted as 48 cents/kWh plus tax for public use, which is competitive. The site itself, a renovated 100-year-old gas station, offers unique amenities like private restrooms, a cafe, and even office/lounge spaces, setting it apart from typical highway chargers. While the primary goal was to test functionality, the integrated amenities aim to enhance the overall charging experience. The network, a joint venture of eight automakers, aims for reliability and a superior customer experience, with plans for 30,000 stalls by 2030. Early feedback suggests IONNA is off to a strong start, prioritizing ease of use and a comfortable environment for EV drivers. less

Xiaomi SU7 Is The Best Chinese Car I’ve Driven! My Full Tour & First Drive

The Xiaomi SU7 Max presents a compelling package, particularly for its price point, positioning itself as a strong competitor to the Tesla Model 3 Per... moreformance. Reviewers highlight its impressive acceleration, refined handling, and surprisingly high-quality interior materials, which feel premium and well-executed. The software integration is lauded as a significant strength, offering advanced features and a responsive infotainment system. However, the vehicle is not without its drawbacks. Early reports of quality control issues, such as braking performance and paint/body fitment, are mentioned, though attributed to it being a new model. A notable concern raised is the road noise isolation, which is perceived as lacking compared to some competitors. Despite these points, the overall driving experience is described as excellent, with smooth one-pedal driving and capable dynamics, making it one of the best-driving Chinese cars tested. less

I Drive The Audi Q6 E-Tron For The First Time! A Better Electric SUV Than Q4 & Q8

The Audi Q6 e-tron and SQ6 e-tron mark a significant step forward for Audi's electric lineup, built on the new PPE platform. Reviewers found the ... moreQ6 Quattro to be a comfortable and refined SUV, embodying the quintessential Audi experience with a smooth ride and competent handling, especially with the air suspension. However, it's noted that the car doesn't dramatically stand out in most areas, feeling like a notable but not revolutionary advancement over existing models. The SQ6 offers more power and sportiness, but at the cost of comfort, with reviewers feeling it compromises the luxurious ride quality. Key criticisms include the complex "plug-in charge" setup, the artificiality of the pumped-in engine noise, and the packaging not being class-leading, particularly the small frunk and average rear-seat room. The reviewer also highlighted the peculiar packaging of features, such as massage seats being exclusive to the sportier SQ6, and the lack of some expected standard features like heated rear seats and steering wheel on lower trims. Despite these points, the new MMI system, augmented reality HUD, and driver assistance systems were praised for their capability and integration, though the AR HUD's practical utility was questioned. Real-world efficiency for the Q6 Quattro was around 3 miles/kWh, while the SQ6 averaged a lower 2.3 miles/kWh, suggesting a range of approximately 300 miles and just over 200 miles respectively. less

These EV DCFC Hubs Will Solve LA’s EV Charging Problem! Rove Full Tour

This video provides an in-depth tour of Rove Charging's inaugural DCFC hub in Southern California, highlighting its comprehensive amenities desig... morened to enhance the EV charging experience. The reviewer praises the site's integration of Tesla Superchargers and Rove's own chargers, alongside a grocery store, lounge, and car wash, addressing the critical need for convenient charging solutions in urban areas, especially for those without home charging. Key positives include the abundance of charging stalls, 24-hour security, and the seamless Apple Pay activation for Rove chargers. However, concerns are raised about the pricing of Rove's charging (58 cents/kWh) compared to Tesla's lower overnight rates, and the substantial, potentially excessive, 6 MWh battery storage system. The reviewer also notes an initial issue with charging session cut-offs due to pre-authorization limits on Rove chargers, though this was resolved. Despite some financial and pricing questions, the overall verdict is highly positive, viewing Rove's concept as a 'holy grail' of charging infrastructure that prioritizes user experience and convenience. less

Tesla's Huge 2024 Holiday Update Is Here! Unwrapping Apple Watch App, Weather, Light Shows & More

Tesla's 2024 Holiday Update brings a substantial list of new features to the Model 3, with the Apple Watch app, auto-shift between drive and reve... morerse, rear cross-traffic alert, and enhanced navigation (weather, radar, search along route, and arrival energy) being key highlights. The light show receives new songs and expanded functionality with interior ambient lighting. While the update is generally well-received, its delayed rollout, particularly for Cybertruck and FSD users, is a point of frustration. The SiriusXM implementation also faces criticism for its reliance on cellular service and potential subscription transfer issues. Despite these drawbacks, the update significantly enhances the user experience, offering more convenience and entertainment options. less

I Drive The Dodge Charger EV For The First Time! A Bad Muscle Car & A Bad Electric Car

The Dodge Charger EV, specifically the Daytona Scat Pack, is met with significant confusion and disappointment by the reviewer. While acknowledging it... mores impressive cabin quietness, solid feel, and surprisingly good ride quality for a large vehicle, the review highlights a severe lack of value proposition. The car is criticized for its non-linear throttle response, atrocious one-pedal driving tuning with noticeable clunking, and poor efficiency (2.1 miles/kWh). The reviewer questions Dodge's marketing of it as a muscle car, pointing out that its performance figures are not competitive with similarly priced EVs like the Tesla Model 3 Performance, and its handling on a twisty road is described as cumbersome and slow. The infotainment system's EV route planning is deemed the worst, and the simulated V8 sound is found to be unconvincing and delayed. Despite some positive aspects like ample interior space and good camera quality, the overall verdict is that the Charger EV struggles to justify its high price tag and fails to impress as either a compelling EV or a modern muscle car, suggesting it might serve better as a rental car. less

Lightship Full Tour! A Towable RV Made For EVs - Fully Integrated Battery, Motor, Solar, & Software

The Lightship AE.1 Cosmos represents a significant leap forward in towable RV design, specifically for electric vehicle owners. The reviewer highlight... mores its innovative collapsing mechanism, which drastically reduces aerodynamic drag and range loss when towing, a critical factor for EVs. Key features praised include the integrated 77 kWh LFP battery with a 75kW assist motor, fast DC charging capability, bidirectional solar charging, and a sophisticated, automotive-grade construction. The interior is lauded for its unique, spacious, and well-appointed design, featuring integrated HVAC, premium materials, and clever storage solutions like the "gear tunnel" equivalent. While the "Cosmos" launch edition is priced at a quarter-million dollars and reservations extend for years, the reviewer expresses immense enthusiasm for the product's potential and execution, noting its durability and forward-thinking integration, which sets a new standard for the RV industry. less

I Drive The Lucid Gravity For The First Time!

The Lucid Gravity, in its pre-series Grand Touring trim, makes a powerful first impression, aiming to embody Lucid's 'compromise nothing... more9; ethos. The vehicle boasts impressive interior space efficiency, rivaling larger SUVs, with a particularly noteworthy low load height for the cargo area and versatile folding second and third rows that enable significant storage capacity, even supporting car camping. The driving experience is highlighted as a major strength, with the dual-motor AWD powertrain delivering a potent 828 hp and 999 lb-ft of torque, offering exhilarating acceleration and refined handling thanks to its adaptive tri-chamber air suspension and rear steering. The interior, particularly the driver's seating position and the seamless 6K OLED screen interface, is praised for being a significant improvement over the Lucid Air. However, the vehicle is still in pre-production, with some software features and charging capabilities yet to be fully realized or demonstrated. The initial pricing for the Grand Touring trim starts at $94,900, with the tested model reaching $125,200, indicating a premium positioning, though less expensive versions are planned for the future. less

Kia EV6 GT vs Ioniq 5 N Highway Range Test

This video pits the Kia EV6 GT against the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N in a 70 mph highway range test. Despite the IONIQ 5 N featuring a larger battery pack, th... moree results were surprisingly close, with both performance EVs exhibiting limited highway range. The reviewer highlights that the EV6 GT, while a capable performer on track and spirited drives, suffers from a high seating position and a less comfortable daily driving experience, leading to overall disappointment. In contrast, the IONIQ 5 N is praised for its superior comfort, seating position, and overall driving dynamics, making it the preferred choice despite a higher price point. The test revealed the EV6 GT achieved 214 miles of range at 70 mph before losing the ability to maintain speed, while the IONIQ 5 N achieved 218 miles. The reviewer strongly recommends the IONIQ 5 N over the EV6 GT, even suggesting it's worth the extra cost. less

My Top 10 Problems With Electric Cars! Degradation, Winter Range, Service / Repair, Towing, & More

This video delves into the common criticisms and challenges faced by electric vehicle owners, moving beyond the typical promotional narrative. The hos... moret, Kyle, acknowledges the significant pros of EVs but focuses on ten key problem areas, including charging inefficiencies (losses, curves, temperature dependency, home installation costs), highway range discrepancies compared to city driving, battery management system (BMS) "sway" leading to inaccurate charge readings, winter performance degradation, phantom drain from connected systems, irreversible battery degradation over time, and higher tire wear. He also touches upon service and repair complexities, increased insurance costs, and depreciation concerns. While acknowledging workarounds and ongoing improvements, the review highlights that these issues are rooted in truth and require honest consideration for potential buyers. The video emphasizes that many of these problems are vehicle-dependent and that infrastructure reliability, particularly outside the Tesla network, remains a significant hurdle for road-tripping. less

These Are The Best Electric Cars To Buy For Under $5,000

This video explores the challenging but rewarding landscape of purchasing an electric vehicle for under $5,000. The host highlights the Nissan Leaf as... more the primary recommendation for budget-conscious buyers seeking reliable transportation, praising its durability, spaciousness, and low running costs, despite its limitations in range and charging speed. He advises buyers to carefully check battery degradation and opt for models with the optional DC charger. Other potential options like the Mitsubishi IMiev, Ford Focus Electric, and Chevy Spark Electric are mentioned but are noted for their rarity or specific drawbacks. The host strongly cautions against purchasing broken EVs like the Mercedes B-Class Electric or early Tesla-powered vehicles due to high repair costs and limited expertise. For those needing longer range or a more modern experience without the risk of used EV ownership, leasing a new Nissan Leaf is presented as a surprisingly affordable alternative, offering peace of mind and warranty coverage. The Chevy Volt is also suggested as a practical plug-in hybrid option for those needing more range and flexibility. less

Porsche Taycan EV Cannonball Record! Why We Chose This Car & How We Broke The 40 Hour Barrier

The hosts detail their experience breaking the EV Cannonball record in the new Porsche Taycan (J12 generation), achieving a time of 39 hours and 29 mi... morenutes. They highlight the Taycan's significant advancements over the previous generation, particularly its exceptional charging performance and thermal management, which are crucial for minimizing road trip times. While acknowledging the car's tight interior space and the need for optional comfort features like massaging seats for extended journeys, the reviewers emphasize that the Taycan's "road trip cohesiveness"—encompassing software, temperature management, and driver tools—makes it the superior choice for long-distance travel over more range-focused EVs like the Lucid Air. The video also touches on the improved charging infrastructure, which played a vital role in their success. less

Lucid Air 3 Month & 15,000mi Review! What We Love & Hate, Testing Results - The Best Luxury EV

After a comprehensive 3-month, 15,000-mile long-term test, the Lucid Air Grand Touring (2025) has matured significantly, earning high praise from the ... morereviewers. The vehicle excels in driving dynamics, offering a comfortable ride and impressive handling, particularly on open roads. Its standout feature remains its exceptional range, consistently exceeding 500 miles in testing at 70 mph, making it a true road trip champion that alleviates range anxiety. While charging performance is noted as inconsistent and not as fast as top competitors like the Porsche Taycan, the car's efficiency often allows drivers to skip charging sessions altogether. The driver assistance systems, while improved through over-the-air updates, still show room for optimization, particularly in handling curves and construction zones, resulting in a lower score in extreme tests. Despite some minor nitpicks regarding software and charging interface, the Lucid Air Grand Touring is lauded as a benchmark vehicle, offering a compelling blend of luxury, performance, and practicality, making it a favorite among the testing team. less

I Deep Froze My Tesla And Immediately Plugged It Into A Supercharger To See What Happens

First Kandi K27 EV Drive - The Cheapest New Car In The USA!

You Won't Believe How Much It Costs To Charge The Hummer EV!

Towing With An Electric Truck - Is It Cheaper Than Gas? Rivian R1T vs Ford F-150 PowerBoost

They Don't Work In The Cold...

Tesla Model Y Refresh Full Tour! My First Look At New Juniper Changes

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