ALEX ON AUTOS LIVE | 2022 #4

EV Channels Review

This live show covers a range of EV and automotive news, with a particular focus on the GMC Hummer EV's surprising inefficiency and heavy, unibody construction. The hosts discuss the EPA's findings, noting the Hummer's 320-mile range and 9,000 lb curb weight, which is not unexpected given its size. Other topics include the restart of Chevrolet Bolt production, Volkswagen's new EV factory, and a cost-of-ownership comparison between EVs and ICE vehicles, suggesting a 16-year break-even point for an i4 versus a Civic in ideal conditions. The discussion also touches on the polarizing design of the new Kia Sportage, dealer markups on vehicles (with Kia leading in percentage over MSRP), and the practicality of the Toyota Corolla Cross versus a used RAV4. The segment on steering wheel touch controls, particularly in VW and Mercedes models, highlights usability issues, especially at night. Finally, the hosts express intrigue about the potential for more unibody trucks following the Hummer EV and Silverado EV's innovative midgate design, while acknowledging the significant lead times for many new EVs.