Electric Vehicle Man

Peugeot E208 Slaps Its Competition In The Face

The Peugeot e-208 is lauded as the best-looking small hatchback on the market, with the reviewer praising its distinctive styling, including the lion ... moreclaw headlights and body-colored grille accents unique to the electric version. The interior is also a highlight, featuring a modern 3D-effect digital cockpit and a responsive infotainment system, though the reviewer notes the prevalence of gloss black trim which is prone to scratching and fingerprints. Practicality is decent for a small hatchback, with a usable boot space, but rear passenger room is tight for taller adults, and ingress/egress can be challenging. On the road, the e-208 is described as comfortable and quiet, particularly in urban environments, with a light steering feel. However, it's criticized for lacking sportiness, feeling artificial and disconnected, and not living up to the potential suggested by its looks. Real-world range is estimated at 170 miles in summer and 140 miles in winter, with the reviewer highlighting its faster charging capability (up to 100kW CCS) as a significant advantage over rivals like the Renault Zoe, despite the Zoe offering slightly more range. Ultimately, the e-208 is deemed a safe but compelling choice, excelling in design and interior tech, making it a strong contender against the Vauxhall Corsa and Renault Zoe, despite its less engaging driving dynamics. less

Electric Car Charge Networks Are Getting Worse When It Comes To Customer Service!

The reviewer expresses significant frustration with the customer service of several electric car charging networks in the UK. While acknowledging that... more charger reliability is generally improving, the core issue lies in the abysmal response times and unhelpful processes encountered when trying to resolve account or charging problems. The reviewer recounts a personal experience involving a "blacklisted" account due to an outdated payment method, leading to extensive hold times (35-59 minutes) and a convoluted resolution process that couldn't be handled over the phone or via mobile website. This lack of communication and prolonged waiting periods are highlighted as major deterrents to EV adoption, contrasting sharply with the ease of using the chargers themselves. The video also touches upon issues of charger downtime, lack of redundancy in network design, and the perplexing phenomenon of some networks leaving chargers on "free vend" for extended periods without charging customers, further exacerbating financial losses and customer frustration. less

Skoda Superb 2020 Plug-In Hybrid - But Is It Really?

The Skoda Superb Plug-In Hybrid (FEV/PHEV) for 2020 is presented as a highly practical and functional vehicle, excelling in its core purpose of transp... moreortation. The reviewer highlights its immense rear passenger space, a cavernous boot (though slightly compromised by batteries), and comfortable, well-appointed interior with premium-feeling materials. The Sport Line trim's seats are particularly praised for their balance of sportiness and comfort. However, the review points out a significant lack of 'personality' and emotional appeal, likening it to a reliable but unexciting accountant or a German holiday – perfectly functional but lacking the flair of a Spanish getaway. The glossy black interior trim is criticized for attracting fingerprints. Performance is adequate with over 210 bhp, but the handling is deemed insufficient for spirited driving. The reviewer strongly questions the practicality of the plug-in hybrid system for long journeys, noting a sharp drop in MPG beyond the electric range. While acknowledging its strengths as a company car, the reviewer suggests that for private buyers, especially at higher trim levels (around £40k), alternatives like the Tesla Model 3 present a compelling case. The car's slow infotainment boot-up is also a minor annoyance. Ultimately, it's deemed an excellent tool but not a car to fall in love with. less

Charging An Electric Car - Media Just Haven't A Clue!

The reviewer strongly criticizes mainstream media and large YouTube channels for disseminating inaccurate information about the realities of living wi... moreth an Electric Vehicle (EV). The core argument is that for those who can charge at home, owning an EV is more convenient than a petrol car, despite media portrayals focusing on the negatives of public charging. The video highlights that daily charging at home, akin to charging a smartphone, is the primary convenience factor, making up 85% of typical driving. While acknowledging that long journeys require planning and can take longer due to charging stops, the reviewer frames these as opportunities to enhance the travel experience rather than inconveniences. The reviewer also debunks the 'worst-case scenario' approach often taken by media, emphasizing that charging stops are usually shorter than reported. The video concludes by urging viewers to experience an EV firsthand to understand its practical benefits, particularly for daily use, and calls for more accurate media reporting. less

Renault Megane E-Tech Plug In Hybrid (2020 PHEV) - If You Plug It In, It Makes Sense!

The Renault Megane E-Tech Plug-In Hybrid Estate (RS Line) is presented as a practical and electrified option for families, particularly those who may ... morenot yet be ready for a full EV. The reviewer highlights its comfortable and spacious interior, particularly the supportive RS Line seats and the user-friendly infotainment system, which is well-integrated into the dashboard. The estate body style is praised for its aesthetics and practicality, offering ample boot space (447 litres) despite the under-seat battery placement. On the road, the car is described as comfortable with 'Goldilocks' suspension, balancing handling and ride quality. The pure EV mode offers a realistic range of 20-25 miles, with the reviewer emphasizing the importance of maximizing electric usage for fuel efficiency and cost savings. While performance in EV mode is adequate, the petrol engine can be engaged for more power. A significant drawback is the price, with the estate version costing over £30,000, approximately £7,000-£8,000 more than equivalent diesel models. However, the reviewer argues that considering lower depreciation and running costs, the total cost of ownership could be more favorable than petrol or diesel alternatives, making it a potentially sound financial choice for those who can afford the initial outlay. Safety features are noted as comprehensive, similar to the Renault Zoe. less

Mercedes eVito Electric Van - Great Van, Badly Executed

The Mercedes eVito electric van is presented as a fundamentally good van, boasting the premium feel and engineering expected from Mercedes-Benz. Its e... morelectric powertrain offers instant torque, ideal for hauling gear, and the interior, while familiar to the standard Vito, is comfortable and functional for daily use. However, the review highlights a critical flaw: the complete absence of rapid charging capability. The eVito is limited to 7kW charging, requiring 5-6 hours for a full charge, which severely restricts its usability for shift work, long journeys, or any application requiring quick turnarounds. This omission, coupled with a higher price point and less range/payload compared to upcoming PSA group rivals (Peugeot, Citroen, Vauxhall) which offer 100kW rapid charging, makes the eVito a difficult proposition. While it excels in urban environments where diesel might be banned, its lack of fast charging capability renders it a niche product, suitable only for very specific, limited-use cases. The reviewer concludes it's a 'good van, badly executed' due to this significant oversight. less

Are Some Electric Car Charger Locations Making People Feel Unsafe?

The reviewer addresses a growing concern within the EV community: the perceived lack of safety at public charging locations, particularly at night. Wh... moreile acknowledging that this issue has not historically been a major concern for experienced EV drivers, the influx of new EV owners has brought it to the forefront. The video highlights personal anecdotes, including the reviewer's wife refusing to use a Tesla Supercharger at night due to safety concerns, and a tweet from a prominent EV personality echoing similar sentiments. The core issue revolves around charging in dark, unlit, or isolated car parks, which can make individuals feel vulnerable, especially during the longer winter nights. The reviewer contrasts this with destination chargers (fast chargers at restaurants or shops), where the user is not typically waiting in the car. The discussion explores potential solutions, such as improved lighting, CCTV, and the development of dedicated charging hubs resembling petrol stations, but acknowledges the logistical and cost challenges. Ultimately, the reviewer concludes that while this may be a rare occurrence for most, it's a genuine concern that needs consideration as EV adoption accelerates, particularly for those without home charging. The video poses the question of responsibility, suggesting car park owners and potentially charger networks need to address lighting and security. less

Renault Captur PHEV (2020) - The New Bestseller For Renault?

The Renault Captur PHEV (2020) is presented as a practical option for those unable to commit to a full EV, building on the success of its predecessor.... more The reviewer highlights its appealing exterior design with distinctive C-shaped LED lights and a covered rear sill for cleaner entry/exit. Inside, the cabin is described as a step up from the Renault Zoe, featuring a user-friendly touchscreen, clear digital dash, and decent material quality, though some blanked-out buttons and a 'plonked on' screen are noted. Practicality is a mixed bag: the boot is significantly smaller than the standard Captur due to battery placement, limiting its utility for larger loads. Rear passenger space is adequate for adults on shorter trips, but the middle seat is best for children. Performance is deemed adequate, with a combined 160 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque providing brisk acceleration, though handling is described as leaning and unsettled over bumps, indicating it's aimed at mass-market appeal rather than enthusiasts. The reviewer questions the high price point, which is close to the larger Megane PHEV, and suggests that while fuel savings are modest, total cost of ownership might be competitive due to better depreciation. Ultimately, the Captur PHEV is positioned as a sensible, comfortable, and easy-to-drive car for the average user, but its practicality compromises and pricing make it a tough sell against full EVs like the Renault Zoe. less

What's It Like Being A Car YouTuber? A Week In The Life!

This video offers a candid look into the demanding and often tedious reality of being a car YouTuber. The creator emphasizes that the job is far from ... moreglamorous, with a significant portion of time dedicated to editing, planning, and research rather than just filming. Challenges such as unpredictable weather, technical difficulties, and the pressure to maintain a consistent upload schedule are highlighted. While the creator acknowledges occasional perks like access to new vehicles and events, the overall impression is one of hard work and meticulous preparation. The video effectively debunks the myth of an 'exciting' YouTuber lifestyle, presenting a more realistic, albeit less glamorous, picture of the profession. less

Skoda Citigoᵉ/Seat Mii/VW eUP: Cheapest Electric Cars On Sale, Bad Or Good Value?

The Skoda Citigoᵉ iV, alongside its Seat Mii and VW eUP siblings, is presented as the cheapest electric car available in the UK. The reviewer emphasiz... morees managing expectations, positioning it as a simple, no-frills city car. Despite its basic nature, the reviewer expresses a surprising fondness for the car, highlighting its fun-to-drive character, nippy acceleration around town, and surprisingly spacious interior, particularly the boot. The "old school" interior with physical buttons and a key ignition is seen as a positive, nostalgic feature. While acknowledging its limitations, such as a lack of advanced tech and a modest real-world range of around 120-170 miles, the reviewer concludes it offers excellent value for money, especially as a second car for urban commuting. A significant drawback revealed in an addendum is the slow home charging speed (3.6kW on single-phase electricity), which halves the advertised rate, a point the reviewer feels is not adequately communicated by the manufacturer. Ultimately, the car is praised for exceeding expectations in its segment, offering a solid, enjoyable driving experience for its price point, though its availability is now limited due to sell-outs. less

Honda E - A Breath Of Fresh Air In A Room Full Of Farts!

The Honda E is presented as a unique and refreshing electric vehicle, standing out significantly from the typical SUV offerings. Reviewers highlight i... morets distinctive, futuristic styling, which garners considerable attention, often more than exotic cars. The interior is praised for its premium feel, solid build quality, and innovative features like the full-width screen display and the unique HDMI socket for external devices. However, the car is not without its drawbacks. The boot space is described as microscopic, and the range is a significant limitation, making it strictly an urban city car. The infotainment system's interface is criticized for being dated, resembling Windows 8. Despite these flaws, the Honda E is lauded for its personality, excellent handling due to its rear-wheel-drive setup and 50/50 weight distribution, and its exceptional turning circle. It's positioned as a stylish, fun, and rare future cult classic, particularly appealing to those who prioritize design and character over practicality and range. less

Electric Car Mileage Rates, Are Some Getting Stiffed?

This video addresses a growing concern among EV owners: the disparity in mileage reimbursement rates offered by employers. The presenter argues passio... morenately that penalizing EV drivers with lower mileage payments, based solely on lower fuel costs, is illogical and unfair. The core argument is that while EVs are cheaper to run, they are significantly more expensive to purchase, and this cost difference should be factored into allowances. The presenter debunks the common misconception that government advisory fuel rates for company cars apply to personal vehicle use, emphasizing that AMAP (Approved Mileage Allowance Payments) are not fuel-dependent and should be applied equally regardless of vehicle type. The video highlights that public charging costs can even exceed those of efficient petrol or hybrid vehicles, further undermining the logic of lower EV mileage rates. Ultimately, the presenter advocates for a unified, non-discriminatory approach to mileage reimbursement, suggesting that companies should pay employees the same rate whether they drive an EV or a combustion engine vehicle, or alternatively, adjust monthly allowances to account for the higher purchase price of EVs. The video aims to gather viewer opinions on this contentious issue. less

Kia Soul 2020 Electric - Good, But Who Is It For?

The Kia Soul EV 2020 is presented as a capable electric vehicle with impressive range, achieving over 250 miles in real-world conditions, potentially ... moreexceeding 300 miles on country roads. The reviewer highlights its spacious interior, comfortable seats, and a brilliant sound system as major positives. However, the car is heavily criticized for its impracticality, particularly its small boot capacity, which is smaller than a Renault Zoe's, making it unsuitable for families or those carrying significant luggage. The reviewer also questions the 'urban crossover' classification, noting its poor ground clearance and lack of off-road capability. A significant point of contention is its direct comparison to the Kia e-Niro; the reviewer concludes that the e-Niro offers superior practicality and handling while being fundamentally the same car underneath, making the Soul EV a niche product for those prioritizing unique styling and an exceptional audio experience over utility. The high price point, especially for a car overshadowed by its sibling, is also a concern. less

Renault Zoe 50 - Have They Screwed It Up Like The Leaf Or Is It Actually A Good Refresh?

The Renault Zoe 50 (2020) is presented as a compelling option for those prioritizing range for the price. The reviewer highlights its strong real-worl... mored range, estimated at around 200 miles year-round, significantly outperforming direct rivals like the Peugeot e-208 and Vauxhall Corsa-e. Positives include its good looks, practical boot space, and a comfortable ride suitable for urban driving. The interior features a nice digital dash and tactile controls, though the reviewer criticizes the dated infotainment screen design with large bezels and the lack of physical volume knob. Practical drawbacks include limited rear passenger space for adults on longer journeys and the controversial optional CCS charging, which costs an additional £1000. While praised for its efficiency and functionality as a city car, the reviewer suggests that for those seeking a more engaging driving experience or a second household car, alternatives like the Mini Electric or Peugeot e-208 might be preferable due to their driving dynamics and aesthetics, despite their shorter range. less

Do Electric Cars Need 600 Miles Of Range? Well, No They Don't.

This video challenges the common perception that electric vehicles (EVs) require excessively long ranges, such as 600 miles, by analyzing real-world d... moreriving habits and UK road regulations. The presenter argues that most drivers do not drive for extended periods without breaks, citing the UK Highway Code's recommendation of a 15-minute break every two hours. Studies suggest that a significant majority of drivers are comfortable with breaks every 3-4 hours. Using average UK speeds, the video calculates that even a 4-hour driving stint, which covers 240 miles, is more than sufficient for the vast majority of journeys, even considering worst-case scenarios. The presenter contends that paying a premium for long-range EVs, which is often thousands of pounds more expensive, is unnecessary for most users who only undertake such long journeys infrequently. The core message is to re-evaluate perceived range needs based on actual driving patterns rather than aspirational or comparative figures from internal combustion engine vehicles. The Kia Niro EV is used as an example, suggesting its real-world range of around 250 miles is ample for most users, even with battery degradation. less

Tesla Model 3 SR+ (UK) The Problem Isn't The Car, It's The Company

The reviewer finds the Tesla Model 3 SR+ to be an "imperfect perfect EV," highlighting its strengths as an industry leader while acknowledgi... moreng frustrating quirks. Positives include its inoffensive design, spacious interior with a great glass roof, and practical boot space, which the reviewer argues is sufficient for most users, negating the need for a Model Y. The instant torque and impressive 0-60 time (5.3 seconds) are praised, as are the exceptionally low running costs, estimated at around £150 per 10,000 miles. However, build quality issues, such as uneven panel gaps and a boot that requires a firm slam, are noted as significant drawbacks, reflecting poorly on Tesla as a premium manufacturer. The reviewer also expresses a preference for physical climate controls over the touchscreen interface. Despite these criticisms, the reviewer concludes that the Model 3 is a benchmark EV, offering excellent performance and efficiency, especially when combined with Tesla's reliable Supercharger network. Real-world range is estimated at 220-240 miles under average conditions, potentially reaching 250 miles in ideal weather. less

Safest Electric Cars You Can Buy In 2020

This video meticulously analyzes the safety ratings of electric cars available in the UK in 2020, categorized by price (above and below £40,000) and b... morey Euro NCAP's four key scores: adult occupancy, child occupancy, vulnerable road user protection, and safety assistance technology. For premium electric cars, the Tesla Model X and Volvo XC40 lead in adult safety, while the Mercedes EQC and Volvo XC40 excel in child safety. The Tesla Model 3 and X are top performers in safety assistance, with Tesla's Autopilot highlighted as a key factor. For cars under £40,000, the DS3 Crossback E-Tense and Peugeot e-2008 are frequently cited as top performers across multiple categories, particularly for child safety and vulnerable road user protection. The reviewer notes that newer car designs generally score better, with older models like the Tesla Model S and BMW i3 showing their age. A surprising finding is the Vauxhall Corsa-e's low score due to a missing rear head restraint, despite its mechanical similarity to higher-scoring French counterparts. The video emphasizes that safety assistance technology, which prevents accidents, is arguably more important than passive safety features. less

Best Value Electric Car 2020 By £ Per Mile Range

This video provides a detailed analysis of electric car value in the UK for 2020, focusing on the metric of pounds per mile of real-world range. The p... moreresenter meticulously lists and compares various premium and non-premium EVs, using data from EV-database.uk. Key findings highlight that while premium cars like the Porsche Taycan and Audi e-tron offer luxury and performance, they are significantly less cost-effective per mile of range compared to standard models. The Tesla Model 3 Long Range emerges as the best value in the premium category. In the non-premium segment, the Renault Zoe (50 kWh) is crowned the overall winner for best pound-per-mile range, closely followed by the Skoda Citigo Electric, which is lauded as an exceptional bargain for city driving or as a second car. The presenter emphasizes that list price can be misleading, with significant discounts often available, and that the pound-per-mile metric is most useful when comparing vehicles within similar categories. less

Volkswagen Loses Dieselgate Case

This video discusses the significant legal developments surrounding the Volkswagen 'Dieselgate' scandal, focusing on a landmark ruling in Ge... morermany where the company was ordered to pay compensation to a motorist. The reviewer highlights that this ruling could set a precedent for approximately 60,000 similar cases in Germany. Crucially, the video also reports on a recent UK High Court ruling where thousands of UK motorists won the first stage of their legal action against Volkswagen over emissions-cheating software. The reviewer expresses frustration with Volkswagen's official response, which downplays the rulings' impact on liability and causation. While acknowledging that the UK legal process is likely to be lengthy, the video offers a glimmer of hope for UK owners seeking compensation, contrasting it with the swift and substantial penalties Volkswagen faced in the US. The discussion also touches upon the potential implications for future EV purchases, particularly the Volkswagen ID.3, and the broader economic impact on the automotive industry. less

Electric Car Wireless Inductive Charging - Why It's Not Viable

The reviewer from EVM explores the viability of wireless inductive charging for electric vehicles, ultimately concluding it's not a practical sol... moreution for mass adoption. The video dissects two main charging scenarios: 'onward charging' (long journeys) and 'destination charging' (at destinations like home or work). For onward charging, the reviewer argues that increasing EV range and faster charging speeds diminish the need for in-road charging infrastructure, which would also be prohibitively expensive to install and maintain. Regarding destination charging, the reviewer deems it a gimmick for homeowners with driveways due to inflexibility and minimal time savings compared to plugging in. For those parking on streets, logistical challenges like non-standard parking arrangements and the sheer cost of retrofitting existing roads make it unfeasible. Even in car parks, the cost and inflexibility of individual wireless pads compared to multi-vehicle physical charging posts make wireless charging less appealing. The core argument against widespread adoption is the unfavorable cost-benefit ratio, especially as technology advances to solve charging needs more efficiently. less

Which Is The Best Electric Car? Hybrid, Plug-In, Electric & Why Self Charging Is Nonsense!

The reviewer critically examines the terminology and purpose of different electrified vehicles, strongly advocating against the term "self-chargi... moreng hybrid." They argue that these vehicles are essentially more efficient petrol cars and not true electric vehicles, as their energy ultimately derives from burning petrol. Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) are presented as a necessary stopgap for individuals lacking home charging infrastructure or access to public charging, offering a bridge to full battery electric vehicles (BEVs). While acknowledging the environmental impact of BEV battery production, the reviewer asserts that BEVs are the greenest option over their lifespan, even with current grid technology. The video concludes by recommending either PHEVs or BEVs, dismissing self-charging hybrids as outdated technology. less

Is It Time For The Electric Highway To Go?

The Electric Highway, operated by Ecotricity, is heavily criticized in this video for its persistent unreliability and poor customer service, making i... moret a significant barrier to EV adoption in the UK. Despite being the first charging network in the UK, launching in 2011, its current state is deemed unacceptable. The reviewer highlights the network's consistent last-place finishes in owner surveys across charging costs, speed, ease of use, and reliability. Key issues include a forced reliance on a smartphone app for access (excluding many users initially), a lack of 24/7 support, and a failure to fully adopt the European standard CCS charging connectors even years after their promised rollout. While Ecotricity claims improvements and a 95% availability rate, the reviewer argues this is insufficient for a critical service and points to ongoing problems with older hardware and a lack of transparency. The video concludes that the Electric Highway's business and environmental model is flawed, urging Ecotricity to sell or improve the network to genuinely support EV adoption. less

Is Leasing or Finance (PCP) Cheaper?

The reviewer compares leasing versus Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) financing for electric vehicles, focusing on personal use. While leasing offers ... morea guaranteed, predictable cost over three years, PCP financing, despite a higher initial monthly payment and a significant final balloon payment, is argued to be financially cheaper in the long run. This is primarily due to the strong residual values of EVs, which the reviewer believes will allow owners to sell the car for more than the balloon payment, thus recouping a substantial portion of the cost. The reviewer estimates a Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus could be sold for £26,000 after three years, making PCP significantly cheaper than leasing. However, the reviewer acknowledges that leasing provides certainty, whereas PCP relies on accurate future value predictions. An additional factor influencing the reviewer's personal choice for PCP is an emotional attachment to cars, which is absent when leasing, making them less inclined to invest time and money in a car they don't own. less

Cheapest Electric Tariff For EV Drivers Lets Save Money

This video provides a comprehensive comparison of electric vehicle (EV) specific electricity tariffs in April 2020, aiming to help drivers save money.... more The reviewer meticulously calculates potential annual costs based on personal usage, emphasizing the critical role of time-of-use tariffs and smart meters in reducing expenses. Octopus Energy emerges as the cheapest provider for the reviewer's usage, costing £949 annually, significantly undercutting competitors like E.ON (£1729) and EDF Energy (£1119). The reviewer highlights that the significant price difference between providers, even for the same service, makes tariff comparison essential, potentially saving hundreds of pounds per year. The video strongly advocates for smart meters, enabling access to these beneficial tariffs, and encourages viewers to analyze their own energy consumption and switch to a more cost-effective plan. While Bulb is mentioned as a popular EV tariff, it was not included in the primary comparison as it wasn't listed on the government-backed 'Go Ultra Low' website. less

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