Branden Flasch, formerly known as "EV Nomads," is a seasoned voice in the electric vehicle community. With extensive personal experience driving a range of EVs, including the Tesla Model Y, Ford F150 Lightning, Tesla Model S, VW ID.4, and more, Flasch brings a deep understanding of the electric driving landscape.
This distributor specializes in sharing insights on new EV models, the nuances of EV charging, and practical advice for electric vehicle travel. Leveraging years of hands-on experience and professional involvement in the EV charging industry, Branden Flasch offers a knowledgeable and engaging perspective for EV enthusiasts and those considering the transition to electric mobility.
This distributor specializes in sharing insights on new EV models, the nuances of EV charging, and practical advice for electric vehicle travel. Leveraging years of hands-on experience and professional involvement in the EV charging industry, Branden Flasch offers a knowledgeable and engaging perspective for EV enthusiasts and those considering the transition to electric mobility.
Farewell ID.4 - The Truth About The VW ID.4 After 1 Year and 16k Miles
After one year and 16,000 miles, the reviewer concludes that the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S RWD, while possessing good hardware and offering a comfortable ride suitable for long distances, is significantly let down by its software. Key criticisms include the lack of one-pedal driving, the absence...
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Showing 24 of 188 total titles. Page 1 of 8.
Going Back to Tesla? Living With an F-150 Lightning: My Real Owner Review
This comprehensive owner review of the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning Lariat Extended Range highlights the truck's strengths and weaknesses after 15,0... more00 miles. The reviewer praises its comfortable ride, quiet cabin, ample storage (especially the Mega Power Frunk), Pro Power Onboard functionality, and excellent battery health (98% SOH). The truck's ability to function like a gas F-150 is seen as a pro for traditional truck buyers, and its CarPlay integration is noted as one of the better implementations. However, significant cons include mediocre software and app performance, a lack of Supercharger integration in the native navigation, fragmented update systems, and slow charging times (38-42 minutes for 10-80%). The reviewer also points out issues with seat comfort, road trip costs, winter efficiency, and the phone-as-a-key system. Ultimately, while the Lightning is considered a good overall package and the best F-150 variant for daily use, its shortcomings, particularly in software and charging, prevent it from being class-leading, and the discontinuation of the platform raises questions about Ford's EV strategy. less
Truth About the 2025 Tesla Model Y LR RWD (1 Year / 11k Miles)
After one year and 11,000 miles, the 2025 Tesla Model Y Long Range RWD proves to be a highly capable and efficient EV, though not without its quirks. ... moreThe reviewer highlights its exceptional road trip readiness, seamless Supercharger integration, and low operating costs as major advantages. The comfortable seats, spacious interior, and advanced FSD 14.2 software are significant pros, making it a compelling option for those seeking autonomous driving capabilities. However, notable drawbacks include excessive road noise compared to competitors, a disappointing and manual frunk, and abysmal auto wipers. Battery degradation is also a concern, with a reported 10% loss in the first year. Despite these issues, the reviewer concludes that the Model Y remains a baseline recommendation for anyone considering an EV, especially for its overall usability and the Tesla ecosystem. less
Quick 550+ Mile Model Y FSD Trip - Resetting My Road Trip Experience After Lightning Road Trips
This video documents a 550+ mile road trip from Charlotte to Atlanta in a 2025 Tesla Model Y Long Range RWD, primarily utilizing Tesla's Full Sel... moref-Driving (FSD) Beta. The reviewer highlights the convenience and overall positive experience of FSD handling the majority of the driving, noting only a few minor interventions and one instance where FSD did not follow navigation precisely. Charging stops were efficient, with Supercharger speeds reaching up to 250kW and costs as low as 27 cents per kWh. The reviewer found the Model Y's seats more comfortable than those in the Ford F-150 Lightning and appreciated the car's quiet ride. However, a notable drawback mentioned was the absence of ventilated seats, a feature present in the Lightning. The trip also included a visit to the Mercedes-Benz Charging Hub and a stop at a Whataburger, offering mixed impressions on the food. Overall, the Model Y proved to be a capable road trip vehicle, with FSD enhancing the driving experience, though the lack of ventilated seats was a minor detractor. less
F150 Lightning Let Me Down & Left Me Stranded: Florida to NC Road Trip
This video chronicles a road trip from Florida to North Carolina in an F-150 Lightning, primarily testing non-Tesla charging infrastructure. The revie... morewer highlights a mix of experiences, from convenient hotel charging and impressive Mercedes-Benz HQ facilities to the critical failure of the truck's battery management system (BMS) leaving them stranded at 0% state of charge, despite indicating remaining range. The reviewer praises the variety and co-location of charging networks like Mercedes and Electrify America, noting competitive pricing at some IONNA stations. However, the critical BMS issue at low state of charge is a significant concern, leading to a recommendation to avoid trusting the vehicle's range estimate below 5%. The video also touches on the convenience of Buc-ee's charging hubs and the overall viability of CCS charging for long-distance travel, albeit with a significant caveat regarding the truck's low-SOC performance. less
Final Stretch Home! 3000 Mile F150 Lightning Road Trip
This video documents a 3,244-mile round trip road trip in an F-150 Lightning from Charlotte, NC to Maine and back. The reviewer highlights various cha... morerging experiences, including Tesla Superchargers, Mercedes Alpitronic Hyperchargers, and IONNA sites, noting both positive and negative aspects of each. A significant pain point discussed is the inconsistent and often exorbitant pricing of hotel EV charging. The reviewer praises the F-150 Lightning's practicality for long-distance family travel due to its spaciousness and comfort, though acknowledges its charging speed and range are not class-leading. The real-world efficiency consistently averaged around 2 miles per kWh. The video also touches on routing decisions, the functionality of charging apps, and the need for better infrastructure and pricing transparency at travel plazas and destination chargers. Despite a minor issue with the accelerator pedal early on (resolved by replacing the 12V battery), the Lightning is deemed a capable road trip vehicle. less
Hyperchargers & Superchargers! Fully Loaded F-150 Lightning Road Trip Down the East Coast
This video documents a significant day-one push of an East Coast road trip in a fully loaded 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning Lariat Extended Range, covering... more over 684 miles. The reviewer highlights a mix of charging experiences, from Tesla Superchargers (utilizing an adapter) to Mercedes/Alpitronic, Applegreen Electric, and BP Pulse stations. While the truck performed adequately, averaging around 2 miles per kWh with a full load, the charging infrastructure presented a mixed bag. The reviewer noted issues with amenities at some Tesla Supercharger locations (lack of trash cans, poor restroom access) and a broken cable at an Applegreen site. Conversely, the Mercedes/Alpitronic site in Connecticut offered good amenities and displayed charging data clearly. The BP Pulse site in Maryland provided strong charging speeds. The video also touches on routing decisions using Apple Maps and A Better Routeplanner (ABRP), and concludes with an overnight stay at a hotel with paid Tesla destination charging. less
Acadia & Lubec in a Day – F-150 Lightning Road Trip
This video documents a 300+ mile scenic EV road trip loop in a Ford F-150 Lightning, starting from Bangor, Maine, and venturing to Lubec and Acadia Na... moretional Park. The reviewer successfully completed the journey primarily on a single charge, leveraging free overnight charging at their hotel. Key highlights include detailed explanations of charging setups, real-world efficiency figures (averaging 2.3 miles/kWh), and practical advice on using apps like A Better Route Planner. The reviewer encountered minor inconveniences, such as a closed Wild Blueberry Land and challenges with timed entry for Cadillac Mountain. The charging experience at the Acadia Gateway Center was detailed, noting session fees and per-kWh costs. Overall, the F-150 Lightning proved capable for this extensive route, with the reviewer expressing satisfaction with its performance and range, despite some logistical planning hiccups for the destinations. less
Can Tesla FSD Convince Mom to Go Electric? Her First Time Driving Electric & With FSD!
This video offers a compelling real-world test of Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) system, featuring a first-time EV and FSD driver, the host'... more;s mother-in-law. The review highlights FSD's capabilities in various challenging conditions, including night driving, traffic, and complex interchanges. The host's mother-in-law, initially cautious, found FSD less stressful for night driving and appreciated its potential to reduce fatigue on long road trips, a key concern for her frequent East Coast travel. The video also touches on practical aspects like Tesla's navigation, charging strategy, and the useful Dog Mode. While FSD's "sloth" mode was deemed a bit lethargic, the overall experience suggests FSD can significantly enhance confidence and comfort for new EV drivers, particularly those apprehensive about night driving or long distances. The reviewer's mother-in-law's verdict leans positive, emphasizing the need for an expert guide when first using the system. less
Taking The Scenic Route Across The White Mountains! F150 Lightning Road Trip to Maine Part 3
This video documents a road trip in a Ford F-150 Lightning, focusing on real-world charging experiences and daily logistics across New England. The re... moreviewer highlights the convenience of hotel charging, the performance of Tesla Superchargers (including charging curves and pin temperatures), and the use of a NACS to CCS adapter. A notable event was the DIY replacement of the 12V battery in a grocery store parking lot, showcasing the owner's self-sufficiency. The reviewer also touches upon destination charging at a casino using Tesla Wall Connectors and the pricing of the Rivian Adventure Network. While the F-150 Lightning is praised as a capable road trip vehicle, the reviewer expresses a preference for Apple Maps over Google Maps for its integration and predictability. The video also includes personal anecdotes, such as dealing with a foot injury and shopping detours, adding a relatable layer to the EV journey. less
Hidden-Gem Tech Gifts I Use Every Day (EV + Smart Home + Tools)
This video presents a curated list of essential tech gadgets that the host, Brandon Flash, genuinely uses daily across EV, smart home, and tool catego... moreries. The review highlights practical items like AirPods Pro with a secure magnetic case, MacBooks (Pro and Air), and Spigen matte screen protectors, praised for reducing glare and fingerprints, especially on Tesla screens. The host provides a detailed look at EV charging adapters, differentiating between NACS to CCS (DC fast charging) and NACS to J1772 (AC charging), recommending the A2Z Typhoon Pro for DC and Lectron for AC. Tools like the Wera Tool-Check Plus and Milwaukee M12 impact driver are lauded for their versatility. The Apple Watch Ultra is recommended for its durability and battery life. Smart home enthusiasts will appreciate the segment on Home Assistant Green for its local control and integration capabilities, and the Emporia Vue Gen 3 for home energy monitoring. Travel essentials, including Anker power banks and chargers, along with the Peak Design Everyday Backpack, round out the list. The review emphasizes real-world utility and value, steering clear of sponsorships. less
The Cheapest New Model Y! Tesla Model Y Standard First Drive and Impressions
The 2026 Tesla Model Y Standard is reviewed as the cheapest new Model Y option, but the value proposition is heavily questioned. While it offers a low... moreer entry price, significant compromises are highlighted, including the loss of a sealed frunk, a non-glass roof, and crucially, basic Autopilot functionality in the US market. The reviewer notes that the manual steering wheel adjustment and lack of seat memory profiles are inconvenient for multiple drivers. Interior usability with car seats is also a concern due to the center seat pass-through design. While the ride comfort with 18-inch wheels is deemed acceptable and potentially quieter than premium models, the lack of tire pressure sensors and a slightly bouncier ride are noted. Charging speeds are slower than premium variants, peaking around 100 kW. The reviewer concludes that the $4,500 price difference over the premium model is insufficient to justify the feature omissions, especially with the absence of Autopilot. Alternative options like used Model Ys, the new Model 3, or even the Chevy Bolt are presented as more compelling budget EV choices. The Standard trim is suggested as a better fit for fleet or upfitter use rather than a private buyer's first Tesla. less
Almost Stranded By My Truck! - North Carolina To Maine In F150 Lightning - Part 2
This installment of the F-150 Lightning road trip from Pennsylvania to New York is fraught with charging drama and unexpected vehicle faults. The revi... moreewer experienced significant issues with the F-150 Lightning's powertrain, including cruise control and accelerator pedal failures, requiring a code scan and reset. Charging experiences were also highly variable, ranging from a positive free hotel charge to frustratingly slow and faulting sessions at a new Tesla V4 Supercharger site. The reviewer highlights the high cost of some public charging stations ($0.66/kWh) compared to others ($0.37/kWh) and criticizes the poor user experience at the Latham, NY Supercharger, which suffered from low current limits and faulted stalls. Despite these challenges, the reviewer also visited a new IONNA/ChargePoint site and spent time at Tom Moloughney's extensive charging setup. The video concludes with the reviewer arriving at a hotel, only to find all chargers occupied by non-EVs or plug-in hybrids, underscoring the ongoing challenges in public EV infrastructure. less
North Carolina To Maine In F150 Lightning - Trying Out Google Maps Route Planning! - Part 1
This video documents the first day of an F-150 Lightning road trip from North Carolina to Maine, focusing on testing various navigation systems. The r... moreeviewer highlights significant issues with Google Maps (via Android Auto) and Apple Maps (via CarPlay) in route planning, particularly their inability to reliably suggest Tesla Superchargers and their often illogical routing. Ford's native navigation also proved inadequate. The reviewer resorted to manually adding stops to achieve a desired route, eventually reaching a Tesla Supercharger with a critically low 2% state of charge after a 249.9-mile leg. Charging performance was initially hampered by a faulty station, but a second attempt at a different stall was successful, reaching 109 kWh added. The reviewer expresses dissatisfaction with Android Auto's user experience compared to Apple CarPlay. The day concludes with finding free Level 2 charging at the hotel, a welcome relief after a day of navigation frustrations. less
First Drive With FSD 14! It Sure Loves To Park Itself...
Branden Flasch provides a comprehensive first drive of Tesla's FSD 14.1.3 in his 2025 Model Y Long Range RWD. The update introduces new auto-park... moreing features and speed profiles, including 'Sloth' and 'Mad Max'. Flasch tests FSD extensively in various parking lot scenarios, including Costco, a mall, grocery stores, and a Supercharger. While FSD successfully navigated and parked in some situations, it struggled significantly in complex environments like the mall's parking garage, making incorrect turns and failing to identify charging stations, even parking in restricted areas. The 'Mad Max' mode offered no discernible difference from 'Hurry'. The reviewer notes improvements in lane keeping smoothness compared to previous versions, but highlights FSD's continued issues with accurate navigation data and identifying specific parking or charging locations. The auto-parking feature, while functional in simpler spots, showed a lack of efficiency and sometimes failed to select optimal spots. Overall, FSD 14 shows promise with some improvements, but still exhibits significant challenges in complex real-world driving and parking scenarios. less
Renting An EV in Norway? Watch This First!
This video offers a comprehensive guide for those considering renting an EV in Norway, drawing from a ~1,400 km road trip in a Volkswagen ID.3. The re... moreviewer highlights the abundance and variety of charging infrastructure, noting that charging was never a limiting factor. Key advice includes opting for smaller rental cars like the ID.3, as they offer ample space for typical luggage and are more cost-effective. The video emphasizes the universal CCS2 connector standard in Europe, advising against CHAdeMO vehicles. It also points out that lower speed limits in Norway contribute to better EV range. Practical tips cover essential apps like Elton for charging, the unreliability of American Express, and the general need for cellular data. The reviewer suggests that a car might not be necessary for exploring Oslo itself, recommending public transport. For road trips, the advice is to build in significant buffer time, as travel pace is slower than in North America, with suggested drive times being roughly double what navigation apps indicate. Overall, the experience is presented as positive and highly recommended for exploring Norway's scenic beauty. less
What The Heck Tesla?! New Cheaper Model 3 And Model Y Standard Now Available
Tesla's introduction of the 'Standard' trims for the Model 3 and Model Y aims to offer more accessible entry points, especially as tax ... morecredits diminish. The Model 3 Standard, priced $6,000 below the Premium RWD, is highlighted as the more sensible option. It retains many desirable features like matrix headlights and a full glass roof, making the cost-cutting measures feel less impactful. Conversely, the Model Y Standard, with a $5,000 price reduction, is seen as a misstep. It loses more significant features, including matrix headlights and dual-pane glass, and introduces questionable design choices like a smaller, unsealed frunk. A major point of contention for both models is the removal of base Autopilot, which the reviewer argues contradicts Tesla's brand ethos. The reviewer suggests that while the Model 3 Standard offers a compelling value proposition, the Model Y Standard's compromises make the Premium version a more attractive, albeit more expensive, choice. The lack of lease options and less competitive financing rates on the Standard trims are also noted as potential deterrents, pushing buyers towards the Premium models. less
Wrapping Up Our Norwegian EV Road Trip Lærdal to Oslo With Surprises Part 5
This video concludes a Norwegian EV road trip, focusing on the final leg from Lærdal to Oslo. The reviewer highlights the extensive and impressive cha... morerging infrastructure encountered throughout Norway, particularly noting a massive charging park with 24 360kW cabinets and numerous Tesla Superchargers and other network providers. The VW ID.3 is praised as a capable and efficient vehicle for the journey, with the reviewer expressing no significant complaints about its range or charging capabilities for this specific trip. Minor inconveniences like the hotel's shower alarm and European charging authentication practices are mentioned but do not detract from the overall positive experience. The stunning Norwegian scenery is a recurring theme, with multiple stops made to appreciate the views. The video also includes detailed tours of various charging stations, showcasing different technologies and operators. less
Bergen to Lærdal - Stunning Views, Tunnels & EV Charging! Norway Road Trip in VW ID.3 Part 4
This installment of the Norway EV road trip follows the VW ID.3 from Bergen to Lærdal, focusing heavily on the evolving charging infrastructure. The r... moreeviewer highlights numerous charging locations, including Circle K, Eviny, and Tesla V4 Superchargers, with a particular emphasis on the new tap-to-pay functionality on V4 posts. While the V4 Supercharger experience is generally positive, with functional payment terminals (Visa accepted, AmEx not), the reviewer notes the cables can be awkward. The journey also features stunning Norwegian scenery, including a fjord cruise, waterfalls, and the impressive Stalheim Hotel viewpoint, though the planned scenic serpentine road detour was inaccessible. The video touches on the practicalities of content creation, such as managing iPhone storage and uploading videos on the go. The reviewer's verdict leans towards appreciating the technological advancements in charging and the breathtaking landscapes, despite some logistical challenges and a lack of substantial meal stops. less
Stavanger to Bergen - Fjords, Ferries, EVs, Oh My! Norway Road Trip in VW ID.3 Part 3
This video documents the third part of a road trip from Stavanger to Bergen in a Volkswagen ID.3, focusing on the scenic route involving fjords and fe... morerries. The reviewer expresses disappointment that the initial fjord cruise was on a diesel boat, not electric as advertised, highlighting a "bait and switch" experience. The journey includes two ferry crossings, with notes on EV discounts and Apple Maps' handling of ferry mileage. The reviewer also details charging experiences at various locations, including Ionity and Alpitronic Hyperchargers, and conducts a 10-80% charging test on the ID.3, achieving an average of 73 kW over 32.5 minutes. Practical tips are shared regarding ferry usage, charging infrastructure in Norway, and the overall pace of road-tripping compared to the US. The reviewer finds the ID.3 to be a capable and efficient road trip car for two people in Norway, praising its space and efficiency at local speeds, though noting it becomes less efficient at higher speeds. Food costs and availability are highlighted as challenges for tourists. less
![Coastal Norway by EV! Lillesand to Stavanger in a VW ID.3 (Scenic Route + Charging Tour) [Part 2]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/MVkiRrHzvJo/hqdefault.jpg)
Coastal Norway by EV! Lillesand to Stavanger in a VW ID.3 (Scenic Route + Charging Tour) [Part 2]
This video documents a scenic coastal drive from Lillesand to Stavanger in Norway, featuring the Volkswagen ID.3. The reviewer highlights the beauty o... moref the Norwegian coast, with numerous scenic pull-offs and stunning views. A significant portion of the video is dedicated to exploring various EV charging infrastructure, including Kempower, Alpitronic HYC-400, HYC-50, and older ABB Terra stations. The reviewer praises the Elton app for simplifying the charging process for foreign visitors, noting its integrated routing and live status features. While the ID.3's efficiency is generally good, the reviewer points out that battery preconditioning is important for optimal performance in cooler temperatures. The video also offers practical advice for EV renters in Norway, emphasizing that frequent charging stops are often unnecessary for typical tourists. Overall, the journey is presented as a beautiful and manageable EV road trip, with the charging infrastructure being a key focus. less
Time For A 12V (LV) Battery Replacement On My F150 Lightning - DIY Installation and BMS Reset
This video provides a practical, DIY guide to replacing the 12-volt (LV) battery in a 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning. The host, Brandon Flash, clearly expl... moreains the necessity of this procedure, even in EVs, due to the constant draw on low-voltage electronics. He details the symptoms that indicate a failing battery, such as strange electrical behavior, and notes that his 3-year-old truck was showing signs of its original battery nearing the end of its life. The replacement process itself is presented as straightforward, requiring basic tools like an 8mm, 10mm, and 12mm socket. Key steps include locating the battery behind a panel, removing a bracket, and disconnecting/reconnecting the terminals. A crucial post-replacement step is the BMS reset procedure, which involves putting the truck in accessory mode, flashing the headlights five times, and pressing the brake pedal three times, confirmed by a flashing battery icon. The host also touches on potential recalibration needs for the front trunk and windows. While no specific trim level is mentioned, the focus is on the technical procedure applicable to the F-150 Lightning model year. less
Hitting The Road In Beautiful Norway! Norwegian Coast Road Trip Part 1
This video documents a road trip along Norway's southern coast, focusing heavily on the country's extensive EV charging infrastructure. The ... morereviewer, Branden Flasch, highlights numerous charging stations from various operators like Circle K, Uno X, Ionity, and Recharge, showcasing different charger types, speeds, and payment systems. While the scenery is acknowledged, the primary focus remains on the charging experience, with detailed tours of multiple sites, including those with large battery storage and innovative designs. The reviewer notes the abundance of chargers, suggesting it might be more than necessary given Norway's slow driving speeds and shorter distances. The Volkswagen ID.3 serves as the rental vehicle for the journey, with the reviewer occasionally commenting on its infotainment and efficiency, averaging around 4 miles per kWh. The video also touches upon the differences in charging infrastructure and user experience compared to the US, emphasizing Norway's more relaxed pace and readily available charging options. less
Experiencing The Future Of Electrification In Beautiful Norway! EV Road Trip Part 1
This video documents an extensive EV road trip along Norway's southern coast, focusing on the country's advanced charging infrastructure. Th... moree reviewer, Branden Flasch, highlights a variety of charging technologies including Alpitronic HYC 300/400, Kempower satellite systems, Tesla Superchargers (V2 & V3), and Uno-X price boards. He notes the impressive density of charging corridors, comparing them to gas stations in their ubiquity. The reviewer praises Norway's EV adoption and infrastructure development, particularly mentioning battery-buffered systems and dedicated truck charging. While the video features extensive time-lapses of the scenic route, the core content delves into detailed tours of numerous charging hubs, discussing their technical specifications, payment systems, and operator strategies. The reviewer also logs a charging curve for the rented Volkswagen ID.3, noting a 4% to 80% charge in approximately 33 minutes, averaging 78 kW. less
My First Look At The New Tesla Model Y Performance
The reviewer provides an in-depth first look at the newly released European Tesla Model Y Performance, often referred to as the 'Juniper' up... moredate. Key improvements highlighted include a significantly upgraded 19-inch screen with 80% more pixels, new carbon fiber interior trim, and enhanced performance seats with better thigh bolster support. The reviewer notes the European model's specific features like the tow hitch and different charging cables, which may not transfer to the US market. A significant point of discussion is the potential for a larger battery pack (around 84 kWh usable in Europe), which could improve range. However, the reviewer expresses concern that the Performance trim's focus on aggressive features like 21-inch staggered wheels and summer tires might alienate the typical Model Y buyer, suggesting a need for more accessible wheel options. While praising Tesla's tech and overall package value, the reviewer emphasizes that charging speed and range are areas where Tesla is facing increasing competition, particularly from Chinese manufacturers in markets like Norway. The consensus is that while the Model Y Performance is a solid vehicle, the value proposition over the standard Juniper model, especially concerning the performance-oriented features, is questionable for many buyers. less