Electric Vehicle Man

MG5 - Not So Cheap Now. Is It Still Good Value???

The MG5 receives a significant facelift, aiming to retain its value proposition in a changing market. While the exterior styling is modernized to alig... moren with the MG family look, the core underneath remains largely the same. The "Long Range" version is now the sole offering, featuring a 60+ kWh battery and the addition of Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability and an app for preheating, which are highlighted as significant bonuses. The interior is described as functional and not cheap, with some nice touches like cloth-effect trim and solid switches, though the black gloss elements attract fingerprints. Practicality is a key focus, with usable roof bars and a decent boot, although it's noted as more of an "estate access hatchback" than a large estate. Driving dynamics are criticized for a lack of refinement, particularly in how power is delivered, leading to wheelspin even with traction control on, and a "wallowing" sensation in corners. The reversing camera quality and small infotainment buttons are also points of contention. Despite a price increase to £31,000 (from a previous effective price closer to £25,000 with grants), the reviewer concludes that the MG5 still offers good value compared to its new competitors, which are either similarly priced with less range or significantly more expensive. Alternatives like the ID.3, Nissan Leaf, e-C4, and e-2008 are discussed, with the MG5 generally offering a better package or more range. The reviewer ultimately deems it a "cracking buy" and a "Grade C student" that does enough to tick the boxes for its price point. less

Volvo C40 Electric - Can't Really Fault It, But

The Volvo C40 is presented as a stylish, premium electric SUV coupe, sharing its platform with the Polestar 2. The reviewer highlights its strong perf... moreormance, particularly the 400+ horsepower AWD version, and praises its solid build quality, comfortable interior, and practical features like the integrated bin and ski hatch. However, the C40 falls short in efficiency compared to rivals and suffers from a dated infotainment system that can be distracting while driving. The reviewer also questions the short three-year warranty on the car itself, contrasting it with the longer battery warranty. Despite its 'sleeper' performance and premium feel, the C40 is ultimately described as 'missionary' – perfectly good but lacking the flair and standout features of its competitors in the crowded premium EV market, leading the reviewer to suggest alternatives like the Polestar 2 or other EVs like the Ioniq 5 or EV6. less

Testing My Nearest 10 Electric Car Charge Sites - Uh Oh!

The reviewer tested the reliability and availability of the 10 nearest rapid EV charging sites to his home. The findings were largely disappointing, w... moreith only 4 out of 10 chargers found to be working, and all of those in use. The video highlights significant issues with the charging network's reliability, with many chargers either out of service, falsely reporting as operational on maps, or experiencing authentication failures. The reviewer emphasizes that this situation is unacceptable, particularly for those who cannot charge at home, and calls for greater attention and action to improve the network's performance. The video also includes a sponsored segment promoting Smart Homecharge for home charging solutions. less

Citroen Ami Cargo - Bonkers In A World Of Boring!

The Citroen Ami Cargo is presented as a "bonkers" alternative in a world of conventional vehicles. While acknowledging its niche appeal and ... morelimitations, the reviewer highlights its unique design and potential for specific urban use cases. The Cargo variant's utility is assessed, noting its decent load space but questioning its suitability for delivery drivers due to range limitations (estimated 35-40 miles real-world) and the vehicle's 28 mph top speed, which makes it impractical for roads with higher speed limits. The reviewer contrasts it with the Twizy, finding the Ami more comfortable and offering a demister, but notes the Twizy's higher top speed and slightly better range. Key drawbacks identified include the low top speed, limited range, and the inability to use it on dual carriageways or motorways, making it a liability in certain situations. However, the Ami is praised for its exceptional visibility, ease of parking, and the sheer fun factor it brings, which the reviewer argues is valuable in itself. Potential buyers are identified as those in advertising/PR needing attention-grabbing vehicles, multi-car households needing a local runabout, or potentially for car-sharing schemes. Ultimately, the Ami Cargo is deemed not practical for mass appeal or replacing conventional cars, but its existence is applauded for adding enjoyment and a refreshing change to the automotive landscape. less

VW ID.5 - I Want An SUV, But Make It Less Practical!

The Volkswagen ID.5 is presented as a more stylish, coupe-like version of the ID.4. While the exterior styling, particularly the rear, is subjectively... more preferred by the reviewer over the ID.4, the core criticism revolves around its pricing. Despite sharing much of its interior with the significantly cheaper ID.3 and ID.4, the ID.5 commands a premium price tag (50.5k to 57k pounds for the reviewed model). The reviewer finds the interior materials and design to be subpar for this price bracket, especially when compared to competitors like the Kia EV6, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and even Volvo models. Practicality is largely maintained, with boot space being slightly larger than the ID.4, and rear passenger space being ample. Real-world range is estimated at around 250 miles, with about 180 miles achievable on the motorway under economical driving conditions. Ultimately, the reviewer cannot justify the cost given the perceived lack of value in the interior and the availability of better-equipped alternatives at similar or lower prices. less

Ford E-Transit: The Worst Review Of An Important EV

The Ford e-Transit is presented as a pivotal moment for commercial EVs, with the reviewer emphasizing its importance in transitioning everyday drivers... more to electric power. Key highlights include its identical load space and capacity to the diesel version, meaning no compromises for practicality. The van is noted for its quiet and comfortable ride, making it ideal for stop-start urban deliveries. A significant positive is the optional Pro Power Onboard feature, allowing it to act as a mobile power source. While the reviewer acknowledges the higher initial cost, they suggest fuel savings and potential fleet benefits (like telematics) will outweigh it. The handling is surprisingly good, with independent rear suspension contributing to a stable, almost sporty feel. The main drawback identified is the range, which, at an estimated 140-160 miles (unladen), might be insufficient for those covering vast distances daily, though it's deemed adequate for the majority of local delivery routes. less

Electric Car Charging Simplified!

This video provides a clear and accessible explanation of EV charging, demystifying AC and DC charging, and the factors influencing charging speeds. T... morehe presenter effectively uses analogies to simplify complex concepts, such as comparing AC charging to overnight phone charging at home and DC charging to rapid top-ups. A key takeaway is the emphasis on charging etiquette, urging drivers to use chargers that match their car's capabilities to maximize throughput and minimize queues, and to move their vehicle once charging is complete, especially when not at 100%. The presenter highlights that while EVs may sometimes be less convenient than petrol cars, especially for those without home charging, the overall benefits, particularly the ability to charge at home, often outweigh the cons. The video also touches on the evolving nature of EV technology, suggesting that current limitations are temporary as the technology matures. less

BMW iX M60 - Neckbreaking, But Disappointing

The BMW iX M60 is presented as a technological flagship with immense power, boasting 618 horsepower and 1100 Nm of torque, capable of brutal accelerat... moreion. However, the review highlights significant disappointment, primarily stemming from its polarizing exterior design, particularly the controversial grille, which the reviewer finds unappealing and unlikely to age well. While the interior is praised for its high-quality materials, advanced technology, and solid engineering, with features like the iDrive controller and crystal accents, the reviewer notes some unexpected 'cheap bits' and questionable design choices, such as the speaker covers. The practicality is questioned due to a smaller boot than competitors and limited rear visibility, despite the car feeling surprisingly agile to drive. Real-world range is a strong point, exceeding 300 miles, which impresses the reviewer. Ultimately, despite its performance and interior quality, the high price point (around £80,000 with options) and divisive styling lead to a verdict that it's an unnecessary large BMW, a niche product that may not justify its cost compared to rivals like the Tesla Model S or Mercedes EQS. less

Heat Pump - Running and Install Costs Versus Gas

This video provides a detailed, data-driven update on the long-term running and installation costs of a heat pump compared to a traditional gas boiler... more. The reviewer, EVM, presents two months of actual usage data, comparing electricity consumption for the heat pump against gas consumption from the previous year, adjusted for temperature differences. Key findings indicate that while the heat pump is more efficient (COP of 3.1 for hot water and 4.8 for heating), its running cost on the standard price cap was only slightly lower (£126 vs £135) than a gas boiler. However, when factoring in a specific Octopus Go tariff, solar panels, and a home battery system, the actual cost dropped significantly to £55 over two months. The installation cost is a major hurdle, with the heat pump system being approximately £6,000 more expensive than a new gas boiler, even after a £5,000 grant. Despite the high upfront cost and a projected payback period of 10-12 years (or more conservatively, £450-£550 annual savings), the reviewer emphasizes the decision was not purely financial but also driven by a desire to eliminate gas usage. The reviewer debunks myths about needing a highly insulated house, stating that while insulation helps, the system can work with standard radiators and existing home structures. Overall, the heat pump is described as a positive addition, offering a more comfortable and stable home temperature, and providing a sense of future-proofing against rising gas prices, though it's acknowledged not to be a solution for everyone due to cost and installation complexities. less

Ora Cat (EV) - It's Not An MG4 Rival

The Ora Cat presents itself as a semi-premium electric vehicle, distinct from budget offerings like the MG4. While its design is polarizing, aiming fo... morer personality over blandness, it successfully differentiates itself. The interior is highlighted as a strong point, featuring quilted upholstery and a well-integrated dual-screen display that surpasses the MG4's offering. However, practicality is compromised by a small boot (228L) and a high loading lip, making it more suitable as a second car or for couples rather than a family vehicle. Real-world range is estimated between 170-200 miles, with charging speeds capped at 64kW CCS, considered a downside. Despite some interior material choices being less premium and average handling, the Ora Cat's unique styling, comfortable seats, and comprehensive warranty (5-year unlimited mileage on the car, 8-year/100,000 miles on battery/drivetrain) position it as an appealing, albeit niche, choice for non-car enthusiasts seeking distinctiveness over outright performance or practicality. less

Should We Ditch Plug-In Hybrids?

The reviewer questions the continued relevance and focus on Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) for automotive channels, despite acknowledging th... moreeir current market presence and utility for specific demographics. While the Hyundai Tucson PHEV is presented, the video primarily serves as a discussion piece rather than a traditional review. The core argument is that PHEVs act as a crucial stepping stone for individuals unable to commit to full EVs due to charging limitations (e.g., living in terraced housing, unreliable public charging) or affordability. The reviewer highlights that ignoring PHEVs alienates a segment of the car-buying public and that manufacturers continue to push them, especially given the long waiting lists for new EVs. The video suggests a shift towards reviewing only 'interesting' PHEVs, such as high-performance or unique models, rather than mainstream ones that could be replaced by EVs. Ultimately, the channel will likely reduce PHEV content, focusing more on full EVs, but acknowledges the practical role PHEVs still play for many. less

Kia Niro EV - All The Car You'll Ever Need!

The Kia Niro EV is presented as a highly practical and efficient electric vehicle, building upon the strengths of its predecessor. The reviewer highli... moreghts its impressive real-world range, achieving around 260 miles even with spirited driving in cool weather, attributing this to its excellent efficiency (around 4 miles per kWh). The interior is praised for its solid switchgear, matte finishes, and intuitive button layout, though some gloss black elements and the placement of certain controls are noted as minor drawbacks. Practicality is a strong suit, with ample rear space for passengers and a generous boot, although the front storage for cables is somewhat awkwardly placed. A significant positive is the vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability, especially on the '3' trim and above. However, the reviewer points out a major limitation: the charging speed caps out at around 70kW, significantly slower than competitors like the Ioniq 5 or EV6. The infotainment system is functional but lacks wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and the premium audio option has been removed from top trims due to production issues. Despite these points, the Niro EV is lauded as a sensible, well-rounded choice, particularly the '3' trim, offering great value and a compelling alternative in the EV market, especially when compared to the MG ZS EV. less

Nissan Ariya EV - A Car I Can't Really Fault, But...

The Nissan Ariya represents a significant leap forward for Nissan's EV offerings, moving beyond the aging Leaf into a more premium and competitiv... moree segment. The reviewer is pleasantly surprised by the interior quality, noting its high-end feel with wood-effect trim and haptic feedback buttons, and particularly impressed by the innovative dual-opening glovebox. The ride is described as very quiet and comfortable, making it a good family vehicle. However, the Ariya's primary drawback is its pricing. Starting at just under £45,000 for a base model, it faces stiff competition from rivals like the Kia EV6, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Genesis GV60, which offer comparable or superior features, faster charging, and often better value. While the reviewer likes the car and its interior, they ultimately conclude that they would opt for a competitor with their own money due to the price and the Ariya's slightly dated charging speeds (130kW CCS maximum) compared to the 800V architectures of its rivals. The reviewer suggests that opting for a cheaper variant might offer better value, but still wouldn't be their personal choice over the competition. less

MG4 Electric - Cheap and Great Value?

The MG4 is presented as a "ground up" electric vehicle aiming to be the most affordable family EV. The reviewer highlights its "Europea... moren" styling, aggressive angles, and adaptive LED headlights as positives, noting that even base models are well-specced. The exterior is praised for its modern, almost "supercar" looks, especially the "crazy angles and edges." However, the interior is a significant letdown, described as "drab," "dark," and featuring "hard wearing plastic" and "black gloss" that attracts fingerprints and scratches. The seats are functional but lack premium feel, and the reviewer suggests a lighter interior or better materials would transform the cabin. Practicality is a strong point, with a decent boot size and good rear passenger entry, though rear visibility is noted as poor. The reviewer discusses two battery sizes (51kWh and 64kWh) and three trim levels, emphasizing the value proposition, particularly the base 51kWh model at around £26,000. While acknowledging the car's handling, exterior design, and ride quality are strong, potentially surpassing previous MG models, the interior is seen as the main compromise. The reviewer ultimately prefers the MG5 for its better interior and practicality but acknowledges the MG4's strong value and driving dynamics, concluding it meets expectations rather than surpassing them like previous MGs. less

EV Charge Networks - Please Listen

This video offers a critical perspective on the current state of EV charging infrastructure, emphasizing reliability as the paramount concern for driv... moreers. The reviewer highlights numerous instances of unreliable chargers, server downtime, and inaccurate network maps, arguing that a non-working charger is worse than no charger at all. Beyond reliability, the video stresses the importance of matching charger types to locations (e.g., fast chargers for short stays, rapid chargers for longer ones) and advocates for universal contactless payment options. Layout considerations for towing and accessibility for disabled users are also discussed, alongside the need for amenities and safety features like lighting and CCTV at charging sites. The reviewer concludes that while cost is a factor, reliability and user experience should be prioritized over cheapness to foster wider EV adoption. less

Top 5 Electric Cars In 2022

This video presents a "Top 5 Electric Cars" list for the UK market in 2022, emphasizing value and real-world usability over pure performance... more or manufacturer claims. The reviewer stresses that "best" is subjective, depending on individual needs, but aims to cover a broad spectrum from affordable city cars to premium luxury vehicles. The Fiat 500e is praised for its fun character and decent real-world range (around 140-150 miles) in its larger battery configuration, offering good value for its price point. The MG range (MG4, MG5, ZS) is highlighted for its exceptional value, with the ZS Long Range being a standout for its affordability compared to competitors like the Tesla Model Y. The Kia e-Niro is recognized as a solid all-rounder family car with a good warranty and over 250 miles of real-world range, though it doesn't excel in any single category. The Genesis GV60 is lauded for its premium interior quality and driving experience, built on the strong platform shared with the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6, justifying its slightly higher price. Finally, the Mercedes EQS is crowned for its luxurious, yacht-like interior, solid build, and overall premium package, making the high price feel justified, unlike some technically advanced but less premium-feeling competitors like the Tesla Model S. The reviewer also touches on the rising prices of EVs, noting that some models, like the Tesla Model 3, may no longer represent good value at their current price points. less

EV Charger Legislation and Government Spying

The video addresses concerns surrounding new government legislation for electric vehicle home charge points, specifically the requirement for smart fu... morenctions. The presenter debunks fears of government spying or remote control, likening the situation to smart meters. The core of the legislation, according to the video, mandates that new charge points must have data connectivity to measure, record, and transmit usage, and crucially, to delay or slow charging during peak grid demand. This is explained as a measure to optimize the use of existing power generation capacity rather than requiring new infrastructure. The presenter emphasizes that these smart features are by default and can be overridden by the user. The video also touches upon the 'inertia' in power generation, explaining how staggered charging times can prevent sudden grid spikes. While the presenter finds the legislation logical and sensible, they express concern about the government's broader EV policies, such as the removal of grants, which they believe makes EVs less accessible to lower-income individuals. Ultimately, the video concludes that the charge point legislation is not a cause for worry and is a sensible step towards grid management. less

Heat Pumps - Our Ugly Truth!

The reviewer tackles the common misconceptions surrounding heat pumps, emphasizing that many negative experiences stem from incorrect installation rat... moreher than inherent flaws in the technology. They detail their installation of a Vaillant Arotherm Plus 5 kW heat pump, highlighting its quiet operation and efficiency, particularly when paired with the Vaillant Uni Tower for hot water. The reviewer debunks myths about heat pumps' inability to heat homes in winter and their insufficient hot water output, showcasing how their system, set at a modest 51°C for hot water and 40°C for radiators, effectively meets their needs. They also discuss the financial aspect, noting the high upfront cost but potential long-term savings through time-of-use tariffs and integration with solar panels and home batteries. The key takeaway is that while heat pumps are a significant investment, their suitability and performance are highly dependent on proper sizing, installation, and individual household needs, with the reviewer advocating for a personalized assessment rather than broad generalizations. less

Are Electric Cars Actually More Expensive?

The video investigates the persistent criticism that electric cars are too expensive compared to their petrol counterparts. The presenter begins by es... moretablishing a new baseline for petrol car prices, highlighting surprisingly high figures for the Ford Fiesta (over £18,000) and Golf GTI (over £36,000). The core of the analysis compares equivalent petrol/hybrid and electric models, including the MG ZS, Kia Niro, Citroen C4, Peugeot e-208, and BMW i4. While initial purchase prices for EVs are consistently higher, often by a significant margin (e.g., MG ZS EV is nearly £10,000 more), the review strongly emphasizes that this is not the complete picture. The presenter reveals that EVs hold their value significantly better, citing examples like the Kia Niro EV and a personal Tesla Model 3 experience where the car depreciated far less, even potentially making money. When factoring in lower fuel costs, cheaper tax, and servicing, the total cost of ownership for EVs is presented as considerably less. The BMW comparison is noted as being deliberately difficult to make direct price comparisons due to manufacturer pricing strategies. Ultimately, the video concludes that while EVs have a higher upfront cost, they are often cheaper to own in the long run, making the answer to the initial question dependent on individual circumstances and the total cost of ownership rather than just the list price. less

How Much Energy Bills Will Cost This Winter

The video addresses the alarming increase in energy bills for the upcoming winter, presenting a stark financial reality for many households. The prese... morenter emphasizes that the situation is not a temporary blip but a significant, long-term issue, with predictions of a 77% price hike in October on top of previous increases. Using a real-world example, the presenter illustrates how a typical three-month winter bill could more than double from £405 to £1085 within a year. While the presenter and his wife are financially stable due to past planning and solar panels, he expresses concern for those who might be caught unprepared, likening the situation to a recurring, unexpected expense that could cripple budgets. The video highlights the inadequacy of typical money-saving advice in the face of such drastic price rises, with even financial experts like Martin Lewis admitting they have few solutions. The presenter suggests proactive measures like increasing direct debits to build credit and encourages viewers to share their own usage data to provide a clearer picture of the real-world impact. less

Autonomous Driving Is Years Off! (Yes, Tesla Autopilot Too!)

The reviewer argues that true Level 5 autonomous driving, capable of handling any road condition and situation without human intervention, is still ma... moreny years away, despite advancements like Tesla's Autopilot. While acknowledging the potential for autonomous vehicles, the video highlights numerous real-world scenarios where current systems falter. These include unexpected braking, disengaging from the motorway, navigating narrow country roads with oncoming traffic, dealing with unpredictable elements like sheep or accidents, and adverse weather conditions such as fog and snow. The reviewer uses their own Tesla as an example, noting that even basic functions can be unreliable. The core argument is that the sheer number of variables and unpredictable events on public roads makes programming a fully autonomous system incredibly challenging. The video concludes that while limited autonomous functionality might appear sooner in controlled environments like city centers, widespread, go-anywhere autonomous driving remains a distant prospect, potentially requiring remote human intervention in complex situations, which itself negates true autonomy. less

EV Home Chargers - Tethered Or Untethered?

This video provides a clear and practical comparison between tethered and untethered home EV chargers, aimed at new EV owners. The host effectively ex... moreplains the core differences, highlighting the convenience of tethered chargers for daily use, especially in adverse weather, due to the integrated cable. Conversely, untethered chargers are presented as neater and more flexible, allowing for the use of different cables or longer lengths if needed, though this requires an extra step of connecting the cable. The discussion touches upon security concerns, with untethered cables being potentially more attractive to thieves due to their resale value, although the hosts note that such incidents are rare. Installation by 'Smart Home Charge' is praised for its professionalism and efficiency. Ultimately, the video concludes that the best choice depends on individual needs and charging habits, with a Twitter poll showing a preference for tethered chargers among viewers. less

Ferrari 296 GTB - Finally A PHEV That Makes Sense! - (UK RHD)

The Ferrari 296 GTB is presented as a groundbreaking plug-in hybrid supercar that challenges traditional perceptions. The reviewer highlights its stun... morening, purposeful aerodynamic design, noting it's not the prettiest Ferrari but still beautiful. The engineering, particularly the V6 engine and integrated aero, is praised. Performance is exceptional, with 833 horsepower, and the reviewer emphasizes its rear-wheel-drive nature and sophisticated traction control system, making it surprisingly manageable. While acknowledging the V6 and hybrid powertrain might divide purists, the reviewer argues Ferrari's commitment signifies its importance. The electric-only range is stated at approximately 15 miles, and the car is described as easy to drive in electric mode, offering a quiet experience. Despite its supercar status, it's noted to be surprisingly usable for short trips, though practicality is secondary. The reviewer concludes that the 296 GTB offers immense driving pleasure and is a worthwhile investment, potentially appreciating in value. less

Tesla Model 3 Vs Train - Who Gets There First!?

This video pits a Tesla Model 3 against public transport, specifically an intercity train, for a long journey to the Goodwood Festival of Speed. The p... morerimary objective was to see if electric vehicles, despite their charging needs on long trips, could compete with or beat public transport in terms of time and cost. Due to train strikes, the public transport leg was hypothetical, with a stand-in ('Georgio') representing the train journey. The reviewer emphasizes driving the Tesla under normal speed limit conditions, not for economy or speed, to create a fair comparison. Despite initial assumptions that the train might be competitive, the Tesla ultimately arrived 12 minutes ahead of the hypothetical train arrival time. The reviewer concludes that electric vehicles are still superior to public transport for such journeys, even without factoring in the significant cost savings. The journey highlighted the complexities and potential delays of public transport, especially during strikes, and the relative convenience of the EV, despite a few charging stops. less

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