Bowe Family EV (Chris Bowe) is a dedicated channel exploring the dynamic world of electric vehicles (EVs) and solar technology. Led by Chris Bowe, a passionate EV enthusiast and co-founder of prominent EV owner clubs, the channel offers in-depth discussions and reviews on a wide array of electric vehicles, from the Ford Lightning to the Tesla Cybertruck and VinFast VF 9. Viewers can expect comprehensive analyses, practical insights, and engaging content that covers everything from long-term ownership experiences to the latest advancements in EV charging infrastructure.
The channel also delves into related technologies, featuring reviews of accessories like tonneau covers and exploring the integration of solar power. Beyond automotive content, Chris Bowe shares glimpses into his personal life, including his involvement with the 49ers on game days, offering a unique perspective that blends technical expertise with a relatable, family-oriented approach. Bowe Family EV serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in the transition to sustainable transportation and energy solutions.
The channel also delves into related technologies, featuring reviews of accessories like tonneau covers and exploring the integration of solar power. Beyond automotive content, Chris Bowe shares glimpses into his personal life, including his involvement with the 49ers on game days, offering a unique perspective that blends technical expertise with a relatable, family-oriented approach. Bowe Family EV serves as a valuable resource for anyone interested in the transition to sustainable transportation and energy solutions.
Ford Lightning Owner Drives the Tesla Cybertruck
This video offers a compelling first drive experience of the Tesla Cybertruck from the perspective of a Ford F-150 Lightning owner. The reviewer highlights the Cybertruck's surprisingly nimble handling and quick acceleration, noting it feels more like a luxurious crossover than a traditional truc...
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From EV Back To Gas, The Shocking Truth Behind The Switch!
The reviewer details a temporary switch from their Ford F-150 Lightning EV to a 2024 Ford Explorer gas SUV due to the Lightning being in the shop. Whi... morele acknowledging the Explorer's practicality as a three-row family vehicle with good space and amenities like Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, the reviewer strongly emphasizes its shortcomings compared to an EV. Key criticisms include sluggish performance, significant engine and road noise, a less smooth driving experience, and the inconvenience and higher cost of refueling at a gas station ($60 for 270 miles vs. an estimated $35 for the Lightning). The Explorer's fuel economy is noted at a poor 19 MPG. The reviewer expresses a clear preference for the EV experience, highlighting the quietness, power, and efficiency of their Lightning. The video also touches upon the Lightning's recent repair for an AC system short, which required extensive disassembly, and the reviewer's overall transparent approach to sharing both the joys and challenges of early EV ownership, while noting their specific issues may not be the norm. less
Kindred Motorworks Electric Ford Bronco! An Icon Reimagined!
Kindred Motorworks offers a unique proposition: reimagining the iconic Ford Bronco as a fully electric vehicle. The company, founded by software veter... moreans, leverages its technological background to streamline the restoration and electrification process. They emphasize retaining the original Bronco's frame for VIN authenticity while replacing bodies and interiors with new components. Key highlights include Italian leather upholstery, a sophisticated in-house thermal management system for the battery, and integrated Apple CarPlay/Android Auto for modern usability. The electric Bronco boasts a dual-motor AWD configuration, delivering an estimated 150-200 miles of range, with charging via CCS (with plans to adopt NACS). While the price point is substantial (around $200k), Kindred justifies it through extensive customization, high-quality materials, and a comprehensive one-year, unlimited-mile warranty. The company's commitment to safety, including upgraded seatbelts and roll cages, goes beyond regulatory requirements, reflecting a dedication to building a vehicle suitable for families. Production is currently around one vehicle per week, with significant interest for the upcoming Q1 launch. less
F150 Lightning First Drive. Did They Love It or Hate It?
This video captures the initial reactions of the reviewer's parents, first-time EV drivers, to the Ford F-150 Lightning. Both parents express sur... moreprise and admiration for the vehicle's smooth, quiet ride and impressive acceleration, with the father noting its comfortable handling and the mother appreciating the lack of engine noise and the seamless one-pedal driving experience. Key highlights include the utility of the frunk and tailgate power outlets, the convenience of home charging, and the surprising efficiency in stop-and-go traffic. However, concerns were raised about the charging infrastructure in their home state of Florida, the potential challenges during hurricane evacuations, and the vehicle's turning radius and parking difficulty. Despite these reservations, the overall sentiment was positive, with both parents enjoying the drive and acknowledging the potential benefits of EVs, though they remain hesitant about a full transition due to existing infrastructure and personal circumstances. less
Exclusive Sneak Peak, I Take the VinFast VF 9 to Electrify America SF
The VinFast VF 9 is presented as a capable and highly customizable three-row SUV, aiming to compete with vehicles like the R1S and EV9. The reviewer h... moreighlights extensive software and UX features, including customizable drive modes, regenerative braking, and advanced climate controls with heated, ventilated, and massaging seats for front and second-row occupants. Practicality is addressed with a decent frunk, a versatile cargo area featuring adjustable tie-down clips and a 110V outlet, and well-integrated third-row ventilation. However, the reviewer notes the third row offers limited legroom for adults and criticizes the rear backup camera's resolution. While the VF 9 offers a smooth ride and good acceleration, it's deemed less powerful and quieter than the F-150 Lightning, with more noticeable motor and road noise. The adaptive cruise control with a capacitive steering wheel is praised, though the lane-keeping assist experienced a disengagement. Overall, the VF 9 is seen as a solid, customizable option, particularly for families, though its pricing places it in a higher segment, and the third-row space is best suited for children. less
Amazing Replacement Floor and Bed Mats for the Ford Lightning!
This video showcases the installation of aftermarket floor and bed mats from AAA liners for the Ford F-150 Lightning. The reviewer highlights the prac... moretical benefits of these mats, particularly for families with children, emphasizing their ability to protect the original carpet from spills and debris. The installation process for all three pieces (bed, second row, and front row) is demonstrated, with the reviewer noting the mats' good fitment and containment features for liquids. While generally impressed, the reviewer points out a minor issue with the front passenger mat's corner not laying perfectly flat initially, suggesting it might improve with heat. Overall, the AAA liners are presented as a significant upgrade over the stock mats, offering superior protection and a cleaner aesthetic for the truck's interior and bed. less
Ford Lightning 2 Year Review - Greatness, Gremlins and Electrifying Adventures
After two years and 22,000 miles, the reviewer offers a comprehensive look at the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning Lariat Standard Range. The "What the ... moreFrunk" feature, onboard power outlets, and spacious rear cabin are highlighted as significant positives. The reviewer praises the Pro Power Onboard system, especially its utility during power outages and for powering household needs, calling it a primary reason for choosing the Lightning. The EV community's welcoming nature and the convenience of never visiting a gas station, particularly with home solar charging, are also strong points. However, the review doesn't shy away from the "gremlins." Recurring issues included water condensation in the rear taillight and across the full-width bar, delaminating running boards and door panels, and replaced windshield wiper motors and a battery sensor. The most significant issue was a battery module failure, which took nearly a month to resolve. Software quirks, such as display screen resets and audio dropouts with Android Auto, are noted as frustrating. Despite these challenges and a minor accident, the reviewer expresses overall satisfaction, emphasizing the readily available parts for F-150s and the excellent service from Fremont Ford. The reviewer concludes that the Lightning, while not perfect, is "well worth it" for their needs, offering a powerful, smooth ride and significant cost savings through home charging. less
Live Stream with the Plug and Play EV Team
This live stream discussion delves into the evolving landscape of EV charging infrastructure and the Ford F-150 Lightning ownership experience. Key hi... moreghlights include the upcoming installation of 1.5 million dollar EV chargers, with speculation on hardware vendors like Kemp Power and Alpitronic, and the potential for 400kW charging. The conversation then shifts to the Ford F-150 Lightning, with the owner reporting positive experiences over two years and 21,000 miles, noting excellent battery resilience and no significant degradation on the standard range model. A significant portion of the discussion critiques Ford's Model E program and the traditional dealership model, contrasting it with direct-to-consumer sales. While acknowledging Ford's efforts in engaging with owners and improving the EV experience, the consensus suggests that the legacy automaker faces challenges in adapting to the software-defined vehicle era compared to EV-native companies, partly due to its complex supply chain and diverse product portfolio. The program's sunsetting is seen as a consequence of shifting market dynamics and a loss of leverage for Ford. less
The Future of EV Charging: Kempower's Grand Opening is Powering Planet Cool
This video provides an in-depth look at Kempower's new North Carolina manufacturing facility, focusing on their innovative EV charging solutions.... more The review highlights the versatility of Kempower's mobile charging units, demonstrated with Volvo's electric construction equipment, noting their quiet operation and comparable performance to diesel counterparts. A key takeaway is the two-hour charge time from 20-80% for heavy machinery, providing approximately five hours of operational use. The review also touches upon Kempower's involvement in motorsports, specifically E-Class Nitrocross, where their portable chargers and backend software, Chari, are utilized for quick turnarounds between races. The Kempower satellite charging system is praised for its flexibility, allowing for distributed charging points up to 250 feet from a central power unit, ideal for applications like car dealerships. The system's user-friendly features, including a spring-assisted cable management and a QR code for real-time charging status, are emphasized. Finally, the power unit itself is showcased as the robust, scalable, and redundant heart of the system, capable of dynamic power sharing and adaptive voltage, supporting everything from light-duty vehicles to heavy-duty trucks, and even megawatt charging. The modular design ensures high uptime, easy maintenance, and future-proofing, making it a significant advancement in EV charging infrastructure. less
Ford Lightning Owner Drives the Tesla Cybertruck
This video offers a compelling first drive experience of the Tesla Cybertruck from the perspective of a Ford F-150 Lightning owner. The reviewer highl... moreights the Cybertruck's surprisingly nimble handling and quick acceleration, noting it feels more like a luxurious crossover than a traditional truck. Key positives include its smooth, dampened ride quality attributed to the air suspension, and its exceptional maneuverability, particularly its tight turning radius which surpasses the Lightning's. Criticisms are minor, focusing on the visibility challenges due to the thick A-pillars and the inability to see the truck's nose, though the reviewer found the steering intuitive and adapted quickly. The reviewer also touches on Tesla's advanced engineering, such as steer-by-wire and 48-volt architecture, contrasting it with the more traditional approach of legacy automakers. While praising the Cybertruck's overall driving dynamics and innovative features, the reviewer notes the seats might be less comfortable for larger individuals compared to the Lightning, and the rear seat space could be tight for taller passengers. Ultimately, the Cybertruck is lauded as a groundbreaking vehicle that redefines automotive possibilities. less