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 4 of 8.
Tesla Slashed Prices! New Model 3! Tax Credits! Should You Buy Now? Complete Tesla Buyer's Guide
The reviewer provides a comprehensive overview of Tesla's current lineup, with a particular focus on the Model 3. He highlights the Model 3 Rear-... moreWheel Drive as the best value, praising its efficiency and LFP battery, while noting its limitations in snow. The upcoming 'Highland' refresh is discussed, detailing its aerodynamic and interior improvements, though its US availability remains uncertain. The reviewer advises against the Model 3 Performance unless the buyer is certain they need it, and suggests the Long Range AWD for those requiring all-wheel drive. For the Model Y, the Long Range AWD is recommended over the base AWD for road trips due to superior charging capabilities, despite the latter's lower price. The Model S is presented as a comfortable, efficient road trip car, with the reviewer favoring the round steering wheel over the yoke. The Model X is described as a flashy, minivan-like SUV with its signature Falcon Wing doors. The reviewer notes recent significant price drops on the Model S and X, making them more accessible, and emphasizes checking inventory for discounts, especially towards the end of the quarter. less
Tested: Model Y Wheel Caps - Just For Style Or Actual Efficiency Improvement?
This video tests the efficiency impact of aftermarket EV Base Tempest wheel covers compared to the stock Tesla Gemini covers and running with no cover... mores on a 2023 Model Y AWD. The test involved a 68-mile loop at 70 mph, with charging to 70% before each segment. The reviewer found minimal differences in efficiency across all three configurations, with the stock Gemini covers showing a slight, statistically insignificant advantage. The reviewer concludes that the choice of wheel covers is primarily a style preference, as factors like speed adjustments, wind, and temperature have a far greater impact on overall efficiency than wheel covers. The video also touches on the ease of using Tesla's Autopilot on the tested route. less
Top 10 Likes and Dislikes About My 2023 Tesla Model Y AWD
The reviewer provides a comprehensive look at their 2023 Tesla Model Y AWD, detailing 10 likes and 10 dislikes after nearly 9,000 miles. Positives inc... morelude the Supercharger network access, valuable third-party app integration via the Tesla API, a vast accessory market, responsive infotainment, effective Autopilot (with Hardware 4), impressive sound system, user-friendly mobile app, daily livability, seamless phone key functionality, and overall strong value, especially with tax credits. However, significant drawbacks are highlighted: the lack of ventilated seats, a poor charging curve on the 4680 battery pack model, absence of AC power outlets, questionable Tesla Vision system limitations (speed caps, no FSD beta on HW4, no summon, useless park assist due to missing sensors), no rear cross-traffic alert, limited infotainment customization, deceptive energy usage metrics, failure to meet EPA rated range in real-world tests, no built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, and a manual front trunk. The reviewer suggests improvements for Tesla, particularly in safety features, charging performance, and convenience options, while acknowledging the base model's strong value proposition. less
16 Tesla Superchargers In One Day With Tours Of Each! Crossing 600 Unique Superchargers Visited
Branden Flasch embarks on an ambitious journey to visit 16 Tesla Supercharger locations in a single day, aiming to surpass 600 unique sites visited. T... morehe video meticulously documents the drive from Charlotte to Raleigh, North Carolina, showcasing various Supercharger installations, primarily V3 models, and detailing their technical specifications, site hosts, and unique features. Flasch highlights the abundance and convenience of Tesla's Supercharger network in the Carolinas, contrasting it with the sparse availability of high-power CCS chargers in the region. He also provides a brief overview of his 2023 Tesla Model Y, including its paint protection film and wheel covers. The reviewer notes that the majority of charging stops were brief, adding only a few kilowatt-hours, a strategy enabled by free Supercharging miles earned through Tesla's referral program. While the video offers a comprehensive look at Supercharger infrastructure, it lacks in-depth driving impressions or range tests, focusing instead on the logistical feat of visiting numerous charging locations. less
The Standard Range Model Y AWD Is The Worst Charging New Tesla You Can Buy
The reviewer provides a scathing assessment of the 2023 Tesla Model Y Standard Range AWD with the 4680 structural battery pack, deeming its charging c... moreurve "downright bad" and "unacceptable" for a 2023 vehicle. Despite a brief peak charge rate around 220-230 kW, the power drops aggressively from the outset, leading to extremely long charging times. The reviewer notes that reaching 80% charge can take around 43 minutes, and a full 0-100% charge can exceed 1 hour and 25 minutes, with the final percentages taking an exceptionally long time due to top balancing. This performance is contrasted unfavorably with other EVs like the Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5, as well as other Tesla models. The reviewer strongly advises against purchasing this specific trim for road trips, recommending the Model 3 RWD with LFP battery or the Model Y Long Range as superior alternatives due to their better charging performance. less
I'm Surprised Tesla Built This Supercharger This Way - Full Site Tour Of New Charlotte Supercharger
This video provides an in-depth tour of Tesla's new Supercharger site in Charlotte, NC, highlighting its unique installation within a parking gar... moreage. The reviewer expresses surprise at Tesla's approach, particularly the decision to route conduits through the parking deck's structural concrete, which necessitated the involvement of structural engineers in addition to electrical and civil teams. This complexity is noted as atypical for Supercharger installations. The tour details the power infrastructure, from the 1500 KVA Duke Energy transformer and 2000 amp Lincoln Electric switchboard to the four Version 3 Supercharger cabinets, each capable of 250 kW. The reviewer points out the unusual ordering of cabinets and the specific conduit runs feeding the dispensers. While the video doesn't focus on a specific Tesla vehicle's performance, it offers valuable insight into the engineering and logistical challenges behind deploying advanced charging infrastructure in urban environments. less
900 Mile Weekend Road Trip To Nashville For Luke Bryan Concert In Base Tesla Model Y AWD (4680)
This video documents a 900-mile weekend road trip from Charlotte, NC to Nashville, TN in a 2023 Tesla Model Y AWD Base with the 4680 battery pack. The... more reviewer, Branden Flasch, highlights the challenges of relying on the car's navigation and arrival estimates, which proved inconsistent and often inaccurate, rendering the trip planner less
Outsmart Tesla Route Planning: How to Manually Add or Select Stops Along Your Road Trip Route
This video provides a practical guide to manual route planning in Tesla vehicles, addressing the limitations of the native route planner for optimized... more road trips. The presenter, Branden Flasch, demonstrates how to add waypoints and manually select charging stops to better suit individual preferences, such as preferred charging locations (like Buc-ee's) or avoiding certain routes. He highlights the importance of understanding arrival state of charge percentages and how they affect charging speed, recommending an 8-12% arrival buffer. While acknowledging Tesla's automatic rerouting capabilities for charger availability, the core message emphasizes user control for more efficient and personalized long-distance travel. The tutorial covers both "adding a waypoint" and "full manual override" approaches, offering flexibility for different user needs. The presenter uses real-world trip examples to illustrate the process, making it relatable for viewers planning their own journeys. less
1 Month Review With The Cheapest 2023 Tesla Model Y!
After one month and 6,000 miles of extensive road-tripping, the reviewer finds the 2023 Tesla Model Y AWD base model to be an undeniable value proposi... moretion, especially after recent price drops and tax credits. While acknowledging its previous shortcomings in ride quality, the reviewer praises the "comfort suspension" update for a significantly improved and comfortable ride. The NVH levels are also noted as excellent, quieter than a previous Rivian R1T. Build quality and interior fit/finish are deemed very good. The Tesla app and API are highlighted as superior to competitors, offering extensive control and data logging capabilities. The Supercharger network remains a significant advantage, working reliably. However, the reviewer points out several misses: the lack of vehicle-to-load (V2L) or even 120V outlets, no built-in Wi-Fi hotspot, absence of a 360-degree camera, no ventilated seats, and no spare tire. The "Vision Park Assist" is deemed useless without ultrasonic sensors, and FSD Beta is not yet available on Hardware 4. Navigation suggestions are also criticized for being unhelpful and unremovable. The manual frunk is also a point of annoyance. Despite these drawbacks, the reviewer concludes that the Model Y's strengths, particularly its value, technology, and the Supercharger network, outweigh its weaknesses, making it a highly recommendable EV. less
Make Your Tesla Or Any Car Easier To Clean With An Easy DIY Ceramic Coating For Under $100!
This video provides a comprehensive DIY guide to applying a ceramic coating on a 2023 Tesla Model Y, specifically over STEK DYNOprism paint protection... more film. The host, Brandon Flash, emphasizes ease of application and affordability, aiming for a sub-$100 cost. Key benefits highlighted include enhanced hydrophobicity, making the car easier to clean, especially with touchless car washes, and improved bug/water runoff. The process involves surface preparation with Griot's Surface Prep, application of Adam's Polishes Graphene Ceramic Spray Coating using an applicator, and buffing off with microfiber towels. The host notes that for cars without PPF, a paint correction is crucial before ceramic coating. He shares valuable lessons learned, particularly regarding application in warm weather, suggesting shorter dwell times (30-60 seconds) to prevent the coating from baking on. While the host is pleased with the results and the remaining product for future applications, he acknowledges minor streaks that may need addressing. The video also briefly touches upon ceramic coating for the interior seats and surfaces. Overall, it's a practical guide for EV owners looking to maintain their vehicle's appearance with a DIY approach. less
Taking The Scenic Path Less Traveled Across The US In My 2023 Model Y AWD (4680)
This video chronicles a multi-day road trip from Minnesota to North Carolina in a 2023 Tesla Model Y AWD, specifically highlighting the 4680 structura... morel battery pack. The reviewer, Branden Flasch, details a scenic, less-traveled route utilizing US highways over interstates, resulting in two long days of travel. Key aspects covered include charging experiences at various Supercharger locations (V2 and V3), with observations on charging speeds, site amenities (like Bucky's and Hy-Vee), and the practicalities of charging overnight when hotel charging isn't available. The reviewer notes the car's efficiency, averaging around 307 Wh/mile initially, and discusses route planning challenges with the Tesla navigation system. While the trip was largely enjoyable, the reviewer mentions a detour adding 20 miles due to unexpected construction, requiring some hypermiling. The video also touches on minor vehicle modifications like a wrap and spoiler. Overall, the Model Y is presented as a capable road trip vehicle, with the reviewer expressing continued enjoyment and plans for future trips. less
Tesla Model Y AWD (4680) Road Trip From North Carolina to Minnesota!
The reviewer embarks on an extensive road trip from North Carolina to Minnesota in a 2023 Tesla Model Y AWD with the 4680 structural battery pack. The... more journey highlights the practicality and ease of Tesla's Supercharger network, with the reviewer noting its near-flawless performance throughout the 1241-mile trip. While the car's navigation system provided a route, the reviewer opted for a more scenic, manually planned route with stops at various Buc-ee's locations and other points of interest. Efficiency was a key focus, with the reviewer aiming for around 300 Wh/mile, a more conservative target than previous trips. The reviewer expresses overall satisfaction with the Model Y's road trip capabilities, praising the seamless charging experience and the comfort of using Autopilot for extended periods. Despite a few minor challenges like parking in Chicago and a brief detour for a Starbucks, the overall verdict is highly positive, emphasizing the Model Y as an excellent choice for long-distance travel. less
Model Y Makes Road Trips Effortless - Orlando to Charlotte in Tesla Model Y AWD (4680)
This video documents a road trip from Orlando, Florida, to Charlotte, North Carolina, in a 2023 Tesla Model Y AWD with the 4680 battery pack. The revi... moreewer highlights the car's comfortable ride quality, quiet cabin, and effortless highway cruising, making it a pleasant place to cover long distances. While the reviewer finds the range adequate, they express a slight wish for better efficiency, attributing it to their driving speed. The Supercharger network is praised for its reliability and performance, with only minor hiccups like a temporary stall issue in Hardeeville. The reviewer also touches on practical aspects like temporary paint protection film and accessories, promising future deep dives. Overall, the Model Y is presented as a capable and enjoyable vehicle for road trips, despite the efficiency not being 'great'. less
The Difference In Charging Experience Is Stark - First Model Y AWD 4680 Road Trip
Branden Flasch embarks on an extensive road trip from Charlotte, NC to Orlando, FL in his new 2023 Tesla Model Y AWD with the 4680 battery pack. The r... moreeview highlights the stark contrast in charging experiences between Tesla's Supercharger network and third-party providers like Electrify America. Flasch praises the seamless and rapid charging at Tesla Superchargers, noting prices around 30 cents/kWh, which he found significantly cheaper and more reliable than Electrify America, where he observed severely derated charging speeds and malfunctioning units. The Model Y's efficiency is also commended. While generally positive about the Tesla ecosystem, Flasch expresses skepticism about Tesla's vision-based Autopilot in adverse conditions, though he was later impressed by its performance in rain. The video details numerous Supercharger stops, showcasing various V2 and V3 installations, and touches upon the 4680 battery's charge curve, which he notes is not optimal but is gathering data. The trip concludes with Flasch reaching his destination, highlighting the overall positive road trip experience facilitated by the Tesla network, despite a high number of charging stops. less
I Replaced My Rivian R1T With a Tesla Model Y - Quick Comparison and Initial Thoughts
The reviewer compares their recently acquired 2023 Tesla Model Y (Long Range, AWD, 4680 structural battery pack) with their departing 2022 Rivian R1T ... more(Adventure Trim, Large Battery, Quad Motor). While acknowledging the comparison is not entirely logical due to the different vehicle types, the reviewer finds the Model Y more practical for daily driving, preferring its smaller size, nimbleness, and hatchback utility over the R1T's truck bed. Key advantages of the Model Y highlighted include a smoother, quieter ride at higher speeds and a more useful cargo area. The reviewer also prefers the Tesla's seats for their comfort and plushness, despite the Rivian's seats offering ventilation. Conversely, the Rivian R1T is praised for its extensive storage options, including the gear tunnel and under-seat compartments, and its more premium interior aesthetics. However, the R1T's larger size and lighter steering are noted as drawbacks for around-town driving. The reviewer concludes that while both vehicles have good sound systems, the Tesla's is slightly better. Overall, the Model Y is deemed more practical for the reviewer's needs, despite the Rivian's inherent advantages as a truck. less
I Sold My Rivian R1T - The Truth After 24k Miles / 9 Months
After 24,000 miles and nine months of ownership, the reviewer is selling their 2022 Rivian R1T. The primary reasons for selling are financial, citing ... morethe need to save for a house and improve their debt-to-income ratio, coupled with the realization that they don't truly need a truck for their lifestyle. The reviewer highlights the R1T's impressive capabilities, comparing it to a blend of Tesla's tech, Range Rover's luxury, and Ford Raptor's off-road prowess. Positives include the fantastic brand image and community, consistent and impactful software updates that have significantly improved features like Driver+ and pedal calibration, and the vehicle's overall well-thought-out design, from the gear tunnel to the camp speaker. The reviewer also praises the excellent range (achieving around 250 miles even at highway speeds), the convenience of the powered tonneau cover and gear tunnel, the integrated air compressor and power outlets, the unlimited and free Wi-Fi hotspot, and the highly capable, adjustable suspension. However, areas for improvement are noted, including the truck's inherent inefficiency (averaging 2 miles/kWh), occasional jarring ride quality over sharp bumps due to heavy wheels, noisy tires, and potential long-term concerns with the air suspension. The DC fast charging thermal management, while improved, still has room for optimization, and the quad-motor inverter cooling could be better. The charge port location is deemed inconvenient, especially for accessing the front trunk while charging and for compatibility with Tesla Superchargers. Interior elements like the center console latches and gear tunnel door clips feel less robust and may not age well. The reviewer also wishes for 240-volt outlets and a more versatile rear seat folding mechanism. Software-wise, the reviewer desires more control over climate settings via the app, better ADAS visualizations, and the ability to use Driver+ on unmapped routes. Despite these criticisms, the reviewer concludes that the R1T is an exceptional vehicle, the best they've ever owned, and highly recommends it, especially for those who can utilize its unique blend of capabilities. less
Rivian Accessory Guide - Must Haves After 20k Miles of Ownership!
This video provides a comprehensive update to the author's Rivian R1T accessory guide, focusing on items that have proven useful after 20,000 mil... morees of ownership. The presenter highlights a range of practical additions, from essential interior organizers and charging solutions to exterior enhancements like running boards and protective sill vinyl. Key recommendations include upgraded LED lighting for the frunk and gear tunnel, a versatile iPad Mini mount, and a clever wireless charging pad replacement offering multiple USB-C and USB-A ports. The review also touches upon detailing supplies and charging adapters, emphasizing value and functionality. While generally positive, the author notes that the EVBase running boards are a budget option and suggests alternatives for those seeking higher quality. The video serves as a valuable resource for new and existing Rivian owners looking to enhance their vehicle's utility and comfort. less
Day Trip to Asheville, NC in Rivian R1T for Drive Electric Earth Day Asheville!
Branden Flasch embarks on a 250-mile round trip from Charlotte to Asheville in his 2022 Rivian R1T to attend a Drive Electric Earth Day event. The jou... morerney highlights the R1T's efficiency in 'Conserve' mode, projecting a favorable range despite a significant elevation gain. Flasch notes the limited charging options in Asheville, relying on a 50kW EVgo charger, and plans a stop at a new 180kW Circle K for the return trip. The video offers a comprehensive tour of the EV event, showcasing a diverse range of electric vehicles and providing insights from other EV owners, particularly regarding charging experiences and software updates. The return journey includes a stop at the Circle K for a quick charge and car wash, demonstrating the 180kW charger's performance. Flasch concludes that the R1T's running boards have a negligible impact on range, and the vehicle's overall efficiency for the trip was impressive, crossing the 20,000-mile mark. less
Here's How I Keep My Rivian R1T Organized
This video offers an in-depth look at how the creator organizes their 2022 Rivian R1T, showcasing a comprehensive approach to carrying essential and s... morepecialized gear. The review highlights the truck's versatile storage solutions, including the bed, gear tunnel, frunk, and under-seat compartments. Key takeaways include the creator's extensive collection of charging adapters, tire repair kits, and various tools, emphasizing preparedness for road trips and content creation. While the sheer volume of items might seem excessive to some, the creator justifies it by their frequent travel and role as a YouTuber. The video provides practical insights into maximizing the R1T's utility, particularly for those who spend significant time on the road or require specific equipment for their activities. The creator's meticulous organization, despite the quantity of items, is a notable aspect. less
Model 3 RWD LFP Charging Rocks! DCFC Charging Curve Analysis of Five Supercharger Sessions
The reviewer provides an in-depth analysis of the 2022 Tesla Model 3 RWD LFP's charging curve across five different Supercharger sessions. Key fi... morendings highlight that while the LFP battery charges rapidly from low states of charge, reaching peak rates of over 170 kW, it significantly slows down beyond 80%. The reviewer strongly advises against charging to 100% at DC fast chargers due to the extremely slow rate in the final stages, recommending instead to charge to 100% overnight at a hotel using slower AC charging for battery calibration. For road trips, the optimal strategy is to charge from a low state (5-10%) to around 55-70%, aiming for charging sessions under 15-20 minutes, or at most 30 minutes if necessary. The reviewer praises the Model 3 LFP's efficiency and the robust Supercharger network, concluding that range and charging speed are not significant concerns for this vehicle, making it highly capable for cross-country travel. less
The Truth About Rivian R1T After 6 Months / 17k Miles - What's Next?
After six months and 17,000 miles, the Rivian R1T continues to impress the reviewer with its versatility, blending the capabilities of a performance E... moreV, a rugged pickup, and a luxury SUV. Key strengths highlighted include its exhilarating acceleration, comfortable ride with adjustable air suspension, and the unique "three vehicles in one" appeal. The reviewer also praises Rivian's brand image, customer engagement through detailed software updates, and the improved navigation system. However, areas for improvement persist, such as a desire for a higher top speed, refinement in suspension noise, and a more robust set of software features like driver profiles, a usable bed camera, and better navigation algorithms. Service experiences, particularly with mobile technicians, are generally positive, though a lengthy repair in Atlanta was noted. The reviewer plans to keep the R1T long-term, appreciating its unique blend of features and performance, despite some minor software and hardware quirks. less
Tested: Did Rivian Fix Charging Thermal Issues in 2023.2.3? With CAN Data!
This video tests Rivian's claim of fixing charging thermal issues with software update 2023.2.3. The reviewer, Branden Flasch, compares charging ... moresessions from 10-70% on the old software (2022.47) versus the new update, using CAN bus data for detailed analysis. While the new software shows improvement, the fix is not a complete overhaul. The reviewer observed that the new software allows the vehicle to hold peak charging speeds for slightly longer and results in a less drastic power dip when battery conditioning is triggered. The average charging speed from 11-70% improved by approximately 3-4%, saving about a minute on the total charging time. However, the core issue of thermal derating when the battery reaches around 50°C persists, with the cooling system still struggling to manage the heat gradient effectively. The reviewer concludes that while the update offers a marginal improvement, it doesn't fully resolve the extreme thermal derates, suggesting that further hardware or more significant software changes might be necessary. less
First Rivian Adventure Network Charger On The East Coast!
Branden Flasch visits the first Rivian Adventure Network charging site east of Colorado, located in Blowing Rock, NC. While the site was not yet offic... moreially open and some chargers were not fully functional, Flasch was able to successfully charge his Rivian R1T, noting a charging speed of up to 124 kW initially, with potential for 200 kW. He observed that the battery temperature management system seemed to be working, though not always intuitively, with the pack warming up but not significantly derating performance. The site features six dispensers, including a dedicated trailer spot, and is powered by a 500 KVA transformer. Flasch highlights the free charging during this pre-opening phase, though billing is expected to commence in April. The review also touches upon the vehicle's off-road capabilities, with a passenger praising its build quality and performance on rough terrain. The trip concludes with a return to Charlotte, with the vehicle averaging approximately 2 miles per kWh. less
Don't Let The Cable Be The Bottleneck On Your EV Fast Charger Installation
This video provides a crucial deep dive into the often-overlooked aspect of EV fast charger installation: cable current ratings. The presenter, Brande... moren, effectively breaks down the relationship between voltage, current, and power, explaining how cable limitations can bottleneck charging speeds, even with high-power chargers. He highlights that while 150kW is the federal minimum for NEVI funding, many installations with 200A cables will fail to deliver this power to 400V vehicles, offering only 60-90kW. Branden advocates for higher amperage cables (350A minimum for 150kW, ideally 400A+) to meet the spirit of the regulations and ensure a better customer experience. He also discusses the pros and cons of liquid-cooled versus air-cooled cables, noting the failure-prone nature of some liquid-cooled systems and favoring air-cooled options for public installations due to their reliability and the effectiveness of 'boost functions' on newer cables. The review emphasizes the importance of specifying correct cable ratings for site hosts and charge point operators to avoid disappointing EV drivers. less