Auto Expert John Cadogan positions itself as a vital resource for navigating the complexities of the automotive world, particularly within the highly competitive Australian market. The channel delves into the everyday realities of car ownership, addressing common frustrations and offering insights into the decision-making processes behind purchasing and maintaining vehicles. It aims to demystify the automotive landscape for consumers, providing expert guidance on a range of topics.
With a focus on practical advice and in-depth analysis, Auto Expert John Cadogan covers essential aspects of vehicle ownership, from the nuances of upgrading older cars to the critical factors influencing tyre performance and safety. The channel also engages with contemporary issues such as electric vehicle (EV) technology, exploring both the potential and the challenges associated with their widespread adoption and integration into existing infrastructure.
With a focus on practical advice and in-depth analysis, Auto Expert John Cadogan covers essential aspects of vehicle ownership, from the nuances of upgrading older cars to the critical factors influencing tyre performance and safety. The channel also engages with contemporary issues such as electric vehicle (EV) technology, exploring both the potential and the challenges associated with their widespread adoption and integration into existing infrastructure.
When Should I Upgrade My Old Car? | Auto Expert John Cadogan
John Cadogan tackles the perennial question of when to upgrade a vehicle, offering a pragmatic perspective that challenges the industry's push for constant turnover. He argues that keeping a car longer significantly reduces depreciation and environmental impact, directly refuting the "greenwashin...
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Showing 24 of 285 total titles. Page 3 of 12.
BYD Shark 6 PHEV Ute: Is It Really Rubbish At Towing?
The reviewer critically examines the BYD Shark 6 PHEV ute's towing capabilities, directly addressing claims made by 'Car Expert'. While... more acknowledging the ute's impressive on-road towing performance and its ability to handle steep gradients even with a depleted battery, the reviewer debunks the notion that it's 'rubbish' at towing. The analysis highlights that the 'Car Expert' test, particularly the dynamometer simulation, produced misleading conclusions by not accurately reflecting real-world driving conditions or the limitations of such tests. The reviewer emphasizes that the Shark 6's powertrain is robust enough for typical towing scenarios, even on challenging inclines, and that its battery management system is designed to prevent critical failures. The core takeaway is that the BYD Shark 6 is a capable towing vehicle, and the criticisms leveled against it are largely unfounded when viewed through a practical, real-world lens. less
BYD Shark 6 PHEV Ute: About That Drag Race (Deep Dive)
The BYD Shark 6 PHEV ute is put under the microscope, focusing on its drag race performance and the underlying physics of its hybrid powertrain. The r... moreeviewer delves into how the electric motors and internal combustion engine work in tandem, particularly during acceleration. Key takeaways highlight that the vehicle can deliver its peak 321 kW and 650 Nm for a short duration, primarily from 0-70 km/h, before the engine assists. This 'overcranking' of the electrical system allows for impressive initial acceleration, outperforming rivals like the Raptor in drag races, though endurance in repeated runs is noted. The reviewer also addresses a past error regarding torque figures, clarifying the combined output. Concerns are raised about the thermal management of the battery and cables under sustained high load, and the potential long-term implications for durability and off-roading. The discussion extends to the broader implications of Chinese manufacturing in the automotive industry, predicting a significant disruption to established players. less
BYD Shark 6 Plug-in Hybrid Ute Q&A | Auto Expert John Cadogan
The BYD Shark 6 plug-in hybrid ute is put under the microscope in this Q&A session, addressing viewer concerns about its off-road capability and p... moreowertrain. While a pre-production model struggled on a hill due to software and gearing limitations, the reviewer suggests production software updates could resolve this. The core issue highlighted is the potential for Chinese manufacturers to have less off-road R&D experience compared to established markets. The reviewer also clarifies the Shark's dual-mode hybrid system, confirming the combustion engine can directly drive the wheels at higher speeds, countering claims it solely acts as a generator. Payload capacity is discussed, with the Shark offering a respectable 790kg, though slightly less than a Ranger V6 Platinum. Ultimately, the reviewer advises caution with new models, recommending buyers wait for market feedback, but believes the Shark 6 has the potential for moderate off-roading and acceptable towing performance, despite not being a dedicated off-roader like a LandCruiser. less
About That Fake 100k Ev Sales Record
John Cadogan critically dissects the Electric Vehicle Council of Australia's announcement of 100,000 EV sales, labeling it a 'fake milestone... more' achieved through misleading statistics. He argues that the council conflates plug-in hybrid sales with pure battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales to inflate the numbers. Cadogan highlights that actual BEV sales for 2024 (up to November) were 82,960, with a projected year-end total of around 95,000, representing a meager 3.8% growth. He criticizes the EV Council's claims of affordability and sustainability, pointing out the significantly higher upfront cost of EVs compared to equivalent combustion engine cars and debunking the 'zero emissions' myth by referencing the CO2 intensity of Australia's national grid. Cadogan concludes that EVs are not a viable cost-of-living solution for most Australians and that the EV Council's press release is a prime example of 'bullshit' marketing, heavily influenced by its corporate members. less
Top 10 Reasons the New Jaguar Type 00 EV is Objectively Terrible
John Cadogan delivers a scathing critique of the Jaguar Type 0000 concept, labeling it an 'objectively ridiculous hideous appalling design traves... morety.' He argues that the vehicle's long bonnet is an inefficient relic of combustion engines, the interior materials like travertine and brass are impractical and heavy, and the overall design language, including the 'strike through' lines and word mark logo, is a departure from Jaguar's heritage. Cadogan is particularly critical of the camera-based rear vision system, the lack of fundamental ergonomic features like cup holders and a parking brake, and the vertical doors, deeming them unnecessary and derivative. He questions Jaguar's strategy of targeting niche markets at the expense of its traditional customer base, concluding that the brand may have signed its own death warrant with such impractical and conceptually flawed designs. less
Ford Ranger PHEV Ute: Overtaken by China
The Ford Ranger PHEV is positioned as a response to tightening emissions regulations rather than a genuine customer demand, according to the reviewer.... more The vehicle is criticized for its significantly smaller battery and less powerful electric motor compared to competitors like the BYD Shark. Its projected EV-only range of 45km (realistically around 30km) and electric motor output of 75kW are deemed inadequate, especially when contrasted with the BYD Shark's 100km range and 170kW output. The reviewer also highlights concerns about the Ranger PHEV's towing capacity, suggesting that legally towing its advertised 3.5 tons will be practically impossible due to the added weight of the hybrid components. The vehicle's high anticipated price point, estimated to be around $90,000, is seen as a major disadvantage when compared to the significantly cheaper and more capable BYD Shark. The reviewer concludes that Ford appears to be aware of the Ranger PHEV's shortcomings, evidenced by a heavily spun press release attempting to justify its existence and features. less
Jaguar Boss Backs Re-brand; Says We're "Vile, Intolerant Haters" | Auto Expert John Cadogan
John Cadogan delivers a scathing critique of Jaguar's recent rebranding and advertising campaign. He argues that the brand has abandoned its heri... moretage of 'grace, space, and pace' in favor of a confusing and alienating 'woke' identity, exemplified by a recent advertisement featuring ambiguous characters and a lack of actual product. Cadogan highlights the overwhelmingly negative public reaction, contrasting it with Jaguar's CEO's dismissive comments labeling critics as 'vile, intolerant haters.' The reviewer contends that this rebranding is a self-destructive move that alienates loyal customers without attracting new ones, questioning the strategic direction and the leadership's disconnect from the brand's core values and target audience. He suggests that Jaguar's focus on DEI initiatives and abstract messaging has overshadowed its automotive identity, potentially leading to the brand's demise. less
The EV Sales Boom Is Dead
The EV sales boom in Australia is not what it seems, according to auto expert John Cadogan. He argues that the narrative of widespread EV adoption, pa... morerticularly in regional and outer suburbs, is largely manufactured by lobby groups like NELPA, which benefit from government incentives like the FBT exemption on novated leases. Cadogan presents data suggesting that while plug-in hybrid sales are up, pure battery EV sales are stagnating, with significant price drops on popular models like the Tesla Model Y failing to boost sales. He criticizes the conflation of EV and plug-in hybrid figures to inflate adoption numbers and highlights that affluent buyers and inner-city dwellers are still the primary demographic for new EVs. Furthermore, Cadogan warns of potential financial pitfalls for consumers entering novated leases, especially with Tesla's aggressive price reductions impacting resale values. He advises caution and thorough research into vehicle depreciation, recommending brands with more stable pricing like Kia and Hyundai for those considering an EV. less
Xpeng X2: Australia's First Flying Car? It's Pie in the Sky.
John Cadogan delivers a scathing review of the XPeng X2, labeling it an "irrelevant toy" and a "pie in the sky" publicity stunt. H... moree highlights its severe limitations, including a mere 75km range, a top speed of 130km/h, and the fact that it requires a pilot's license and is not yet certified by Australia's Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). Cadogan dismisses potential use cases like island hopping or emergency medical transport, arguing that conventional helicopters are far superior and more practical. He criticizes the inclusion of a ballistic parachute as a sign of low confidence in the vehicle's safety and questions the practicality of widespread deployment, citing potential chaos and accidents. Ultimately, Cadogan concludes the X2 is an impractical, unworkable joke, suggesting XPeng would be better off developing affordable, practical EVs for everyday use rather than pursuing such "science fiction" ventures. less
Get Home Solar or Buy an EV - Which Is Better? I Ran The Numbers.
John Cadogan critically evaluates the decision between installing home solar and purchasing an Electric Vehicle (EV), ultimately advocating for solar ... moreas the superior investment. He presents a detailed breakdown of his own solar system's costs and savings, demonstrating a 10% tax-free return on investment, which he contrasts favorably with a low 3.8% return from a term deposit. Cadogan highlights the environmental benefits, estimating significant CO2 reductions compared to EVs. He argues that EVs are twice the price for half the CO2 benefit, are more resource-intensive, and suffer from significant depreciation, making them a harder sell on rational criteria. While acknowledging the intangible benefits of EVs, he concludes that home solar offers a more pragmatic, economically sound, and environmentally effective action for consumers today. less
Tesla's Goose Is Cooked - Despite Share Price Rally
John Cadogan delivers a scathing critique of Tesla's recent 'We Robot' event, labeling the showcased concepts, the Cybercab and RoboVan... more, as impractical vaporware. He highlights the significant market capitalization loss following the event, suggesting investor patience with Elon Musk's ambitious, often unfulfilled, promises is waning. Cadogan criticizes the lack of focus on developing actual, desirable EVs, instead pointing to the aging inventory and heavy discounting of current models. He draws parallels between Musk's promises and the impractical trousers of MC Hammer, and even suggests Tesla's future might involve being acquired by Chinese manufacturers like BYD. The review also touches on the Optimus robot, dismissing it as another overhyped, unachievable product. Overall, the video expresses deep skepticism about Tesla's current direction and future prospects under Musk's leadership. less
Worst PHEV Design Ever: Jeep Wrangler and Grand Cherokee 4xe
The reviewer unequivocally condemns the Jeep Wrangler and Grand Cherokee 4xe's plug-in hybrid design, labeling it one of the worst ever conceived... more. The core criticism centers on the battery design and packaging, which are described as "disgraceful" and "bean counter driven." The transcript details a significant recall affecting over 150,000 vehicles due to potential fire risks stemming from Samsung's Prismatic battery cells. Specific incidents of thermal runaway, explosive vapor venting, and even a garage door being blown 30 feet are cited as evidence of the severe safety concerns. The reviewer dismisses the notion that EVs are inherently simpler or more reliable, highlighting the complexity and potential failure points within these hybrid systems. The placement of the battery box directly beneath the passenger compartment, with no firewall, is particularly criticized for allowing toxic vapors to vent into the cabin. The reviewer also points out the use of less stable Nickel Manganese Cobalt chemistry over safer Lithium Iron Phosphate as a cost-saving measure that compromises safety. less
The Government Has a 'Friends of EVs' Program Now
John Cadogan critically dissects the recent 'Parliamentary Friends of Electric Vehicles' event, labeling it a performative display by politi... morecians and industry lobbyists. He argues that the rhetoric surrounding EVs in Canberra is detached from reality, highlighting the disconnect between the "elite" pushing for EVs and the actual preferences of Australian consumers. Cadogan points to the sales figures of popular vehicles, noting that only a fraction are available as plug-in hybrids and none as pure EVs, suggesting that the demand for EVs is largely manufactured through government incentives, particularly salary packaging, which he believes primarily benefits finance companies. He criticizes the notion of being a "friend of electric vehicles" as absurd and questions the sincerity of linking EV adoption to solving the cost of living crisis, asserting that those struggling with the crisis cannot afford new vehicles. While acknowledging the potential for EVs to reduce national emissions by 10%, he contrasts this with Australia's significant role as an exporter of fossil fuels. Cadogan concludes that the EV push is a self-serving endeavor for lobbyists and a "greenwashing" exercise, rather than a genuine reflection of consumer desire or a solution to economic hardship. less
Nissan Leaf Burns in Garage Thanks to Dodgy DIY Charging Setup
This video details a Nissan Leaf that caught fire in a garage in Glen Waverly, Australia. The reviewer, John Cadogan, strongly asserts that the fire w... moreas not caused by the EV's battery or inherent fault, but rather by a "dodgy DIY charging setup." Specifically, he points to the use of an aftermarket charging lead with a travel adapter, likely to circumvent Nissan Australia's expensive "contingency charger" accessory. Cadogan criticizes Nissan for not including a standard Australian plug charger with the vehicle, forcing owners into potentially unsafe workarounds. He argues that the travel adapter, not designed for sustained high current draw, likely melted and initiated the blaze. The reviewer contrasts this with the stability of home solar batteries and advocates for home solar and battery storage as a safer and more effective climate action. He concludes that while the fire was preventable with proper charging solutions (like an electrician-fitted charger or a standard included charger), the incident highlights a broader societal failure to integrate EVs safely, akin to existing infrastructure for petrol or gas. less
Will Upstarts From China Kill Nissan In Australia? | Auto Expert John Cadogan
The new Managing Director of Nissan Australia, Andrew Humston, has painted a complex picture of the Australian car market, acknowledging the significa... morent challenges posed by an influx of new Chinese brands. The reviewer largely agrees with Humston's assessment of market saturation and the unsustainability of numerous brands competing for limited sales, noting that the top brands dominate the market. However, the review strongly criticizes Nissan's current product lineup and historical decisions, citing the Nissan Leaf as a prime example of poor resale value and a "crap product." The author highlights Nissan's drastic sales decline over the past decade and attributes it to a "cascade of crap decisions" rather than just increased competition. The review concludes that while Humston believes Nissan is "deeply rooted" in Australia, the impending arrival of Chinese competitors will test this assertion far more severely. less
CO2, and Charging Your EV at Home: You're Not Going to Like It
John Cadogan delivers a starkly realistic assessment of charging electric vehicles at home in Australia, challenging the common perception of EVs as i... morenherently "green." He meticulously crunches the numbers, comparing the CO2 emissions of charging a Tesla Model Y Performance overnight via the grid to that of a diesel dual-cab ute. His analysis, based on Australian government data and adjusted for real-world conditions and charging inefficiencies, suggests that the emissions are remarkably similar, with the Model Y producing approximately 221g CO2/km versus a Toyota Hilux SR5 at 227g CO2/km. Cadogan highlights that rooftop solar, while beneficial, does not solve the nighttime charging emissions problem. He strongly advocates for hybrids, citing the Hyundai Santa Fe hybrid as a more practical and environmentally conscious choice for most Australian motorists, offering significantly lower real-world emissions (154g CO2/km) and greater convenience. The review concludes that for effective climate action in Australia, hybrids are a superior and more sensible option than battery EVs for the majority of consumers. less
Price Slashed! MG4 EV Is Up To $10k Cheaper Now
MG has significantly slashed the price of the MG4 in Australia, offering up to $10,000 off the base model and between $5,000 to $8,000 off other varia... morents. This aggressive discounting is interpreted as a desperate measure to clear excess stock, potentially dating back to last year. While this presents a golden opportunity for new EV buyers seeking affordability, it's a tough pill to swallow for those who purchased at the full price earlier this year. The reviewer questions MG's stated motivation of making EVs more accessible, suggesting the price cuts are a response to lower-than-expected sales figures, with the company aiming for 2,000 monthly sales but only achieving around 400-450. Despite the sales struggles and the controversial price drops, the MG4 is acknowledged as a good EV with a reasonable price and battery size. However, the video also highlights the broader challenges in EV adoption, particularly for mainstream buyers who face issues with charging infrastructure and the practicality of home solar charging, suggesting EVs are not yet for everyone. less
The 4 Million EV Fantasy | Auto Expert John Cadogan
John Cadogan critically analyzes the Australian Energy Market Operator's (AEMO) revised forecast for EV adoption in Australia, significantly down... moregrading their prediction from 7 million to 4 million EVs by 2034. Cadogan expresses skepticism towards AEMO's modeling, highlighting its volatility and questioning the competence of the organization. He argues that the current growth rate of EV sales in Australia, around 1.4% for the first eight months of 2024, is far from the sustained 27.5% annual growth required to meet AEMO's target. Cadogan points out that government incentives, while boosting sales initially, do not guarantee long-term sustained growth and are costly. He contrasts this with the organic and strong growth of diesel vehicle sales, which consumers are actively choosing without subsidies. The review concludes that the push for EVs, driven by ideology rather than practical reality, is unrealistic and potentially detrimental to civilization, as a world without hydrocarbon energy would revert to a pre-industrial state. less
Volvo Scraps EV-Only 2030 Target, Because: Reality
John Cadogan critically analyzes Volvo's revised EV strategy, highlighting the company's shift away from its 2030 all-electric target. He at... moretributes this change to market realities, consumer reluctance towards EVs, and practical challenges like charging infrastructure and resale value. Cadogan points out Volvo's historical struggles and its current position as a Chinese-owned entity facing potential tariffs. The review emphasizes that while Volvo publicly maintains an "electric future" narrative, its actions suggest a pragmatic return to prioritizing internal combustion engines and hybrids. The expert's verdict is that Volvo, like other manufacturers, is in "EVs Anonymous," struggling to reconcile virtue signaling with market demand and financial viability. less
Taxpayers Give Ampol $100M To Drop The Ball On EV Charging
This video critically examines Ampol's recent $100 million taxpayer-funded initiative to install EV fast chargers across Australia. The reviewer,... more John Cadogan, expresses strong skepticism, highlighting Ampol's dual role as a major fuel retailer and an EV charging proponent, questioning the inherent conflict of interest. A key criticism is Ampol's failure to adequately plan for grid infrastructure, leading to significant delays and a drastic reduction in the number of chargers planned for 2024. The reviewer points out that many installed chargers are non-operational due to a lack of grid connection, deeming the project a "masturbatory green fantasy." Cadogan argues that such large sums should not be given to established corporations with substantial market capitalization, especially when basic infrastructure planning appears to be lacking. The core message is that while EV adoption is important, the execution by companies like Ampol, with taxpayer money, is flawed due to poor planning and a potential lack of genuine profitability in the charging business itself, leading to a "greenwashing" effort rather than a practical solution. less
EV vs Internal Combustion - 10 Year Co2 Shootout! I Ran The Numbers
John Cadogan critically examines the environmental impact of Electric Vehicles (EVs) versus internal combustion engine (ICE) cars, specifically compar... moreing a Tesla Model Y Performance to a Mazda 2 GT over a 10-year ownership period. His analysis focuses on CO2 emissions, factoring in manufacturing (especially battery production for the EV) and operational energy sources. Cadogan argues that EVs are not inherently superior for climate action, citing the significant CO2 cost of battery production and the reliance on grid electricity, which in Australia is largely coal-fired. He contends that smaller, more affordable ICE cars like the Mazda 2 offer a more accessible and potentially greener solution for the average consumer when considering the total lifecycle CO2 emissions and the opportunity cost of purchasing a much more expensive EV. The review highlights the importance of considering real-world usage, charging habits, and the accessibility of solutions for the broader population, concluding that incentivizing smaller ICE vehicles could be a more effective climate strategy than mandating expensive EVs. less
Kia EV6 Car Park Fire Highlights Multiple EV Design Deficiencies
John Cadogan critically examines the implications of a Kia EV6 fire, drawing parallels to a previous Mercedes EQE incident. He argues that these event... mores expose significant design and integration flaws in EVs, prioritizing energy density over safety. Cadogan highlights six key deficiencies: the use of volatile Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC) chemistry pouch cells, the lack of standardized and effective deflagration ports, inadequate fire suppression design hindering firefighters, and the inherent risks of parking and charging EVs in underground structures. He criticizes the industry's approach, suggesting a lack of regulatory oversight and a tendency to offload long-term battery issues onto owners. The review emphasizes the urgent need for improved safety standards, better firefighter training, and more robust infrastructure to mitigate the escalating risks associated with EV adoption, warning of potential future tragedies if these issues are not addressed. less
Mercedes EV Explodes, Injures 23, Destroys 140 Cars in South Korea
This video details a catastrophic incident in South Korea where a Mercedes-Benz EQE electric vehicle exploded and subsequently destroyed 140 other car... mores and injured 23 people. The reviewer, John Cadogan, attributes the cause to a faulty, cheap Chinese-manufactured battery from Fases, highlighting the inherent risks of thermal runaway in nickel-manganese-cobalt chemistries. He criticizes the lack of adequate safety standards and testing for EV batteries, particularly the inability of conventional sprinkler systems to combat battery fires. Cadogan also expresses strong disapproval of politicians prioritizing EV adoption over public safety, urging for stringent safety regulations and responsible integration of EVs, especially concerning their parking in underground car parks. The review emphasizes the toxic nature of battery off-gassing and the severe consequences of such failures. less
EVs: New Green Car Sales Record, or Bad Plan Doomed to Fail?
John Cadogan critically analyzes the claim that Australia is on track for 100,000 EV sales in 2024. He argues that this figure is inflated by the incl... moreusion of plug-in hybrids, which he contends are still largely combustion-powered. Cadogan highlights that battery-electric vehicle (BEV) sales alone fall short of the 100,000 target. He also points out that diesel vehicle sales are growing faster than BEVs, despite lacking government incentives. The review questions the effectiveness and environmental ROI of EVs compared to smaller, more efficient internal combustion engine cars or improved public transport, suggesting the focus on EVs might be a misallocation of resources. Cadogan is highly critical of EV lobby groups, accusing them of selective data presentation and 'green virtue signaling' by their corporate members. less