Out of Spec Motoring is a premier destination for enthusiasts seeking to explore the dynamic world of electric vehicles. This distributor specializes in content that goes beyond standard reviews, offering immersive journeys and thrilling challenges that put EVs to the ultimate test. From high-stakes road trip races featuring cutting-edge models like the Lucid Air, Tesla Model S, and Porsche Taycan, to extensive cross-country expeditions in popular EVs such as the Volkswagen ID.4 and Tesla Model 3, Out of Spec Motoring delivers unparalleled insight into EV performance and capability.
The channel's extensive coverage extends to the burgeoning electric truck market, with head-to-head comparisons and endurance tests involving the Rivian, Cybertruck, Ford Lightning, and Chevrolet Silverado. Whether documenting record-breaking attempts or showcasing the practicalities of long-distance EV travel, Out of Spec Motoring provides a comprehensive and exciting look at the future of automotive innovation, making it an essential watch for anyone passionate about electric mobility and the open road.
The channel's extensive coverage extends to the burgeoning electric truck market, with head-to-head comparisons and endurance tests involving the Rivian, Cybertruck, Ford Lightning, and Chevrolet Silverado. Whether documenting record-breaking attempts or showcasing the practicalities of long-distance EV travel, Out of Spec Motoring provides a comprehensive and exciting look at the future of automotive innovation, making it an essential watch for anyone passionate about electric mobility and the open road.
EV Road Trip Race: Lucid Air vs Tesla Model S vs Porsche Taycan - Race To Vegas Return
This video pits three premium electric sedans—Lucid Air Grand Touring, Tesla Model S Plaid, and Porsche Taycan RWD—against each other in a "Race to Vegas Reverse" road trip. The primary focus is on real-world road trip capability, highlighting charging infrastructure challenges and vehicle effici...
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Cross Country Tesla Road Trip Pt. 1 | Planning
This video details the meticulous planning process for a cross-country Tesla road trip, emphasizing the use of A Better Route Planner (ABRP) for optim... moreizing charging stops and overall journey. The host, Kyle, highlights the Model 3 Long Range Performance's capabilities, noting that while Tesla road trips are generally easy, detailed planning is crucial for longer, more complex journeys. Key preparation steps include checking vehicle condition, adjusting tire pressure for efficiency, and utilizing apps like PlugShare to find charging options, including hotel destination chargers. The video also touches upon camera equipment for documenting the trip and introduces a personal mobility device, the SwagCycle. While the focus is on planning, the underlying message is the increasing ease and feasibility of long-distance EV travel, particularly with Tesla's Supercharger network and advanced route planning tools. less
Model 3 Holiday Madness Tesla Road Trip: North Carolina to Florida
This road trip video chronicles a journey in a Tesla Model 3 Performance from Raleigh, NC to Marco Island, FL during the holiday season. The primary c... morehallenges encountered were severe traffic congestion, numerous accidents, and unreliable Supercharger performance, particularly on I-95. The reviewer highlights the inefficiency of the Model 3 Performance compared to other trims, noting a consumption of 450 Wh/mile at 80 mph, which is considered high. Supercharger issues included V1 chargers being overloaded, requiring long waits, and some stations experiencing downtime. The video also touches on the limitations of Autopilot in poor visibility conditions. Despite the numerous setbacks, the reviewer emphasizes the importance of crowd-sourced information like PlugShare for navigating charging challenges and ultimately reaches the destination, albeit much later than anticipated. less
Model 3 Performance Plus vs Minus Race Track Dog Fight
This video pits two Tesla Model 3 Performance variants against each other on a racetrack to determine if the "Performance Plus" with upgrade... mored brakes but cheaper tires is faster than a standard "Performance" with better tires. The reviewer highlights significant issues with both cars' braking systems, noting pedal fade and overheating after just a few laps. The "Performance Plus" car, equipped with inexpensive $77 Nankang tires, struggled with grip, exhibiting excessive sliding and sidewall flex, which the reviewer attributes partly to tire shine from an automated wash. Despite the tire disadvantage, the car with better Hankook Ventus tires was ultimately found to be faster, though the reviewer notes the driving styles differed significantly. The consensus is that while cheap tires offer "fun" for sliding, investing in better tires like the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S is crucial for actual track performance, and upgraded brakes are also a necessity for sustained track use. less
Buying the Cheapest Model S 100D Then Blasting Across the Country (Very Cold!)
This video documents an ambitious, albeit rushed, cross-country road trip in a recently acquired, budget-friendly Tesla Model S 100D. The reviewer hig... morehlights the car's excellent value proposition, purchased for around $60,000 with 50,000 miles and nearly every option, despite a dealership error listing it as a 60D. The primary challenge was a tight deadline to reach New Hampshire for a flight, compounded by significant delays in receiving paperwork. The reviewer praises the Model S's comfortable ride, impressive efficiency (averaging around 381 Wh/mile in sub-zero temperatures, outperforming their Model 3 Performance), and overall road trip capability. Minor gripes included the HVAC system struggling to keep the large cabin warm in extreme cold and some older infotainment lag. The charging experience with older Supercharger versions (V1) was noted as slow and inconsistent, with the car sometimes requiring more time to ramp up speeds compared to newer models. Despite the logistical hurdles and cold weather, the Model S 100D proved to be a capable and efficient long-distance cruiser, offering significant value. less
One Year With The Electric Smart! My Favorite Car...
After one year and over 10,000 miles, the reviewer expresses immense satisfaction with the electric Smart Fortwo ED, calling it their "favorite c... morear." Despite its short EPA-rated range of 58 miles, the reviewer found it more than sufficient for daily city driving and errands, consistently returning home with significant battery charge. The car's compact size, exceptional turning radius, and surprisingly peppy acceleration (especially off the line) are highlighted as key strengths for urban environments. The reviewer also praises the smooth, refined driving experience compared to its gasoline counterpart, noting the instant power delivery of the electric motor. Practicality is demonstrated through its use for hauling dogs, Christmas trees, and even off-road adventures. Financially, the car makes sense primarily through a one-pay lease for $5,000 over three years, covering maintenance and effectively making it a "free car" if commuting fuel costs exceed this amount. Downsides mentioned include the peculiar brake pedal calibration, which blends regenerative and friction braking awkwardly, and the rather basic halogen headlights. The reviewer also notes the car's limited top speed of 87 mph and the noisy convertible roof mechanism. Overall, the electric Smart Fortwo ED is lauded as an ideal, fun, and surprisingly capable city car, with the reviewer eager to lease another one. less
Track Mode Changes Everything! Model 3 Hard Blast The Dragon and Hellbender
The reviewer takes a Tesla Model 3 Performance to the challenging roads of the Smoky Mountains, specifically the Hellbender and the Tail of the Dragon... more, to test its capabilities in Track Mode. While the Model 3 Performance is praised for its nimble chassis, low center of gravity, and impressive acceleration that closes gaps between corners, its braking system is identified as a significant weakness, with the pedal becoming soft and ABS engaging unexpectedly under hard use. The suspension is noted as being tuned more for daily driving than aggressive track or mountain road use, exhibiting some softness and body roll, especially in sweepers. Track Mode is found to enhance the driving experience by allowing more oversteer and increasing regenerative braking, which is crucial for managing heat on descents. However, the reviewer suggests that while it's the best-handling electric car tested so far, it doesn't quite match the outright cornering capability of comparable gasoline performance cars like a BMW M2 or Porsche Cayman. A major drawback highlighted is the rapid battery depletion (over 1 kWh/mile) and the lack of DC fast charging in the area, necessitating long charging breaks after spirited driving. less
Kona EV: Halfway Across USA on Electrify America - The Rollout is Huge!
This video documents a road trip across the USA in a 2019 Hyundai Kona Electric, primarily utilizing the Electrify America charging network. The revie... morewer highlights the surprising expansion and reliability of the CCS network, contrasting it with the common perception that Tesla's Supercharger network is the only viable option for long-distance EV travel. While the Kona Electric's range prediction proved optimistic, often falling short of estimates, especially on highways, the reviewer found the car to be a capable and well-equipped vehicle for its price point, praising its tech features and usable space. The journey encountered significant challenges, including a non-functional charging station and a hotel losing power overnight, which tested the reviewer's planning and patience. Despite these setbacks, the overall experience with Electrify America's network improved throughout the trip, with most chargers working seamlessly. The reviewer concludes that non-Tesla EV roadtripping is increasingly feasible, though careful planning and app usage remain crucial. less
Model S P85+ | Road Trip to Boston and Supercharger Issues? New Car!
The reviewer acquired a 2013 Tesla Model S P85+ with over 100,000 miles, noting its excellent condition and a surprisingly comfortable ride, even on i... morets performance-oriented air suspension, comparing it favorably to a Model 3 for road trips. The primary focus of the video, however, was a series of perplexing Supercharger issues encountered during a trip to Boston. The car exhibited unusually slow charging speeds, with charging sessions peaking around 120 kW before rapidly tapering off to 70-80 kW and even lower, regardless of the Supercharger stall used. Despite trying multiple chargers and confirming the car's battery was warm, the slow charging persisted. While the reviewer initially suspected a car issue, they later learned of potential network-wide Supercharger problems affecting other Tesla models that weekend. The reviewer concludes that the car itself is highly efficient, achieving an impressive 335 Wh/mile in adverse conditions, but the Supercharging problems remain a significant concern requiring further investigation. less
Part 2/2 Model 3 Massive Spontaneous Road Trip Across the Country
This video documents a spontaneous, cross-country road trip in a Tesla Model 3 Performance, focusing heavily on the charging experience and efficiency... more. The reviewer highlights the convenience of the Supercharger network, noting impressive charging speeds even on older V1 units and the utility of destination chargers at hotels. While the Model 3 Performance demonstrates strong efficiency, especially when compared to a Model X on similar routes, the review points out significant consumption increases due to headwinds and adverse weather. The reviewer also touches on minor annoyances like the front trunk not latching and the car's trip planner occasionally overestimating range. Overall, the video provides practical insights into long-distance EV travel, emphasizing the importance of planning and the network's reliability, despite some minor drawbacks. less
Model 3 Massive Spontaneous Road Trip Across the Country
This video documents an impromptu cross-country road trip from North Carolina to Colorado in a brand-new Tesla Model 3 Performance. The reviewer highl... moreights the spontaneous nature of the trip, emphasizing the lack of planning and the inclusion of dogs. Key takeaways include the vehicle's performance capabilities, but also its significantly lower efficiency compared to previous RWD models, especially in colder weather and mountainous terrain, leading to more frequent charging stops than initially anticipated. Charging speeds were generally good, though some minor connection issues and a few non-functional chargers were encountered. The reviewer also notes a bug with Autopilot in software version 12.1, which was expected to be resolved with an update. Despite the efficiency challenges and minor inconveniences, the trip was successfully completed, showcasing the practicality of the Model 3 for long-distance travel, even with pets. less
Model 3: 60,000mi Data, Cost, and More - Why I'm Selling It!
This video provides a comprehensive 60,000-mile review of a Tesla Model 3, detailing its durability and ownership costs after a year of intensive use,... more including road trips, track days, and daily driving. The reviewer highlights the car's remarkable resilience, noting minimal wear on the interior despite significant abuse, such as dog hair and general neglect. Exterior wear includes numerous paint chips and scratches, particularly on the front and lower body panels, attributed to harsh conditions and modifications. Mechanically, the car performed admirably, with no degradation in charging speed and only minor maintenance issues like a delaminated headliner and rear axle clicks, costing less than $100 in total for services. Battery degradation was minimal, estimated at around 3-5%. The reviewer ultimately sells the car to purchase a new Model 3 Performance, receiving a surprisingly high trade-in value from Tesla. less
Comparison: Bolt vs Kona vs Model 3
This comparison review pits the Chevrolet Bolt EV, Hyundai Kona Electric, and Tesla Model 3 Standard Plus against each other to determine the best val... moreue buy. The reviewer highlights the Bolt's practicality and affordability but criticizes its cheap interior, lack of adaptive cruise control, and slow charging. The Kona is praised for its standard features, comfortable ride height, and decent charging, but suffers from a cramped rear, lack of a frunk, and sometimes unpredictable driving dynamics. The Tesla Model 3 Standard Plus emerges as the clear winner, lauded for its superior driving dynamics, refined interior, excellent driver assistance technology, and overall practicality despite being a sedan. While acknowledging its higher price point and potential service complexities, the reviewer concludes that the Model 3 offers a significantly more premium and confidence-inspiring experience, making it the top recommendation even when compared to hatchbacks. less
Model 3 | 13,000mi+ Road Trip and Breaking the Cannonball EV Record
Kyle Conner details his extensive 13,443-mile road trip in his Tesla Model 3 Long Range RWD, which included setting a new Cannonball EV record from Ne... morew York to Los Angeles. The journey, completed in just over a month, highlights the Model 3's durability and the evolving EV charging infrastructure. Conner emphasizes the strategic charging methodology, aiming to charge until the speed tapers off around 55-60% and then moving to the next Supercharger. He notes the car's cooling system performed exceptionally well, with no overheating issues despite constant AC use and high speeds, including hitting the car's 140 mph limit multiple times. The total charging time was approximately 7 hours and 20 minutes. While the trip involved some challenges like traffic and a minor navigation error, Conner concludes that the EV Cannonball experience is less tiring than gas car runs due to the regular breaks at chargers. The review also touches upon Conner's subsequent industry engagements, including podcast appearances and visits to EV-related companies, underscoring the broader context of his trip as a deep dive into the EV ecosystem. less
Tesla Roadster Technical Details Part 2
This in-depth technical dive into the first-generation Tesla Roadster, presented by Gruber Motor Company, offers a comprehensive look at the vehicle&#... more039;s unique engineering and maintenance considerations. The review highlights key differences between the 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, and 2.5 models, particularly concerning the transmission and the absence of a traditional 12-volt battery in early versions, relying instead on DC-DC converters. A significant focus is placed on the Power Electronics Module (PEM), detailing common failure points like aging capacitors and deteriorating thermal insulation, and the costly nature of Tesla's replacement parts. The video also explores the Roadster's HVAC system limitations, especially in hot climates where battery cooling can override cabin comfort, and discusses typical real-world range, which often falls between 140-175 miles for non-3.0 packs. Maintenance recommendations include annual cleaning of the PEM and careful battery management, with advice on storage mode and disconnecting the high-voltage battery to preserve longevity. The review underscores the Roadster's unique challenges and the specialized expertise required for its upkeep. less
We Broke the EV Cannonball Record in 45h 16m | Time-lapse
This video documents Kyle Conner and Matthew Davis's successful attempt to break the EV Cannonball Record, completing the cross-country journey i... moren an astonishing 45 hours and 16 minutes. Driving a Tesla Model 3 Long Range Rear Wheel Drive, they navigated significant challenges including heavy traffic, construction zones, and adverse weather conditions. Despite these obstacles, they managed to surpass the previous record by a considerable margin. The video highlights the endurance and planning required for such an endeavor, showcasing the capabilities of the Model 3 for long-distance travel. The primary takeaway is the successful achievement of a new benchmark in EV transcontinental travel, demonstrating the viability and increasing efficiency of electric vehicles for extreme journeys. less
Model 3 1200 Mile Road Trip With 2 Dogs
This video documents a 1,200-mile road trip from North Carolina to Florida and back in a Tesla Model 3 Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive, accompanied by two... more dogs. The reviewer highlights the practicalities of traveling with pets, noting the need for longer charging stops and the importance of activating rear climate control for the dogs. The trip planner's charging predictions were consistently underestimated, requiring adjustments on the fly. Charging speeds varied, with some older V1 Superchargers proving slower than expected, particularly in heat. Despite these minor inconveniences, the reviewer emphasizes a relaxed travel style, prioritizing the dogs' comfort over maximizing charging speed. The return journey faced a significant headwind, impacting consumption and necessitating an additional stop. Ultimately, the Model 3 proved capable of handling the long-distance journey with family and pets, albeit with a more leisurely approach to charging. less
Kona EV US Road Trip: 1,500 Miles and Back - Pushing the Charging Infrastructure!
This video chronicles an extensive 1,500-mile round trip road trip in the Hyundai Kona Electric Ultimate 64kWh, primarily focusing on the challenges a... morend realities of navigating the US charging infrastructure outside of the Tesla network. The reviewer highlights the Kona's capabilities, particularly its Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keep Assist, which ease the driving burden. However, the core of the review revolves around the often-frustrating experience with public DC fast chargers, especially Electrify America stations, which suffered from frequent errors, downtime, and inconsistent performance. Despite these infrastructure issues, the Kona itself is praised for its performance, especially at lower states of charge, and its ability to handle the long distances, with the reviewer noting no faults with the car itself. The video serves as a cautionary tale and a practical guide for EV road-trippers, emphasizing the need for meticulous planning and flexibility when relying on non-proprietary charging networks. less
150kW Supercharger MegaTest: 75+100 Pack Model 3 LR
This extensive Supercharger MegaTest evaluates the impact of Tesla's 2019.12 software update, enabling a 150kW peak charge rate across multiple v... moreehicles. The test focused on charging from 5% to 90% with a warm battery, comparing different pack sizes and software versions. Key findings indicate that while the Model 3 Long Range (both 100kWh packs) with the newest software (dot 2) charged consistently within a similar range, the primary takeaway is Tesla's conservative approach to high charging rates at higher states of charge, with significant tapering observed around 40-50%. Notably, the Model S 75D saw a substantial improvement, peaking at 113kW (up from ~98kW), suggesting other older packs may also benefit. The test debunked temperature as a limiting factor in their specific conditions and highlighted the Model X's suitability for road trips due to its charging capabilities. The reviewer suggests further improvements are needed in managing charging speeds at higher states of charge for optimal road trip efficiency. less