Everything Electric CARS

VW I.D. R Pikes Peak

This "Fully Charged" episode documents Volkswagen's groundbreaking attempt at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb with their electr... moreic I.D. R race car. Host Jonny Smith captures the raw excitement of the event, highlighting the unique challenges posed by the extreme altitude and the advantages electric powertrains offer in such conditions. The video emphasizes the I.D. R's bespoke, ground-up design, built in an astonishingly short eight months, and its purpose-built nature for this specific race. The reviewer is clearly impressed by the car's performance, particularly its ability to maintain power and its remarkable acceleration, contrasting it with the limitations of combustion engines at high altitudes. The ultimate success of the I.D. R in smashing the existing record, breaking the eight-minute barrier with a time of 7:57.148, is presented as a monumental achievement for electric vehicles in motorsport. The editorial takeaway is that electric power is not only viable but superior for extreme conditions like Pikes Peak, signaling a potential revolution in automotive performance. less

Fracking, Jaguar, Hydrogen Trains, Tesla & VW: Fully Charged News

This 'Fully Charged News' update covers a range of significant developments in the EV and energy sectors. The host expresses strong oppositi... moreon to fracking, citing its economic unsustainability and environmental risks, contrasting it with the public's support for offshore wind. A major highlight is Jaguar's commitment to becoming 100% electric by 2025, with all models except one going fully electric, a move bolstered by the success of the I-PACE. The review notes the I-PACE's Austrian production but emphasizes Jaguar's UK manufacturing plans and battery supply chain. The potential of hydrogen fuel cell technology is explored, particularly for trains, with the host suggesting it's more viable for heavy transport than small passenger vehicles. Volkswagen's ambitious plan to electrify its Zwickau plant is also discussed. Finally, the overwhelming success of the Tesla Model 3 in the US market is highlighted, attributing Tesla's production advantage to in-house battery manufacturing and a lack of legacy internal combustion engine infrastructure. The segment concludes with a brief mention of a plastic boat made from recycled materials. less

Paris Motor Show 2018

The Fully Charged team provides a comprehensive overview of the electric vehicle offerings at the 2018 Paris Motor Show. Key highlights include the Au... moredi e-tron, praised for its conventional yet premium interior, substantial 660-liter boot, and innovative camera-based mirrors, though its exterior styling is described as conventional. The e-tron boasts a 95 kWh battery and an estimated 249 miles WLTP range. The Mercedes EQ C is also discussed, noted for its similar size and range to the e-tron, with a conventional design approach. The Kia Niro EV is presented as a significant contender, offering a claimed 301 miles of range from its 64 kWh battery and an anticipated price point under £30,000, making it economically competitive with higher-end Teslas. The Smart EQ is reviewed as a well-packaged urban car with a 17.6 kWh battery providing around 110-120 miles of range. The show's focus on fully electric vehicles over plug-in hybrids is a recurring theme, signaling a strong industry shift. less

Working in Energy & Technology | Fully Charged Live 2018 Talk 16

This video features a panel discussion from Fully Charged Live 2018 focusing on careers in the energy and technology sectors, particularly within the ... moreelectric vehicle and clean tech industries. The panelists, David Hunt (Hyperion), Imogen Pearce (Jaguar Land Rover), and Mike Potter (Drive Electric), emphasize passion, flexibility, and a proactive approach as key attributes for success. They highlight the rapidly evolving nature of the industry, the importance of adaptability, and the creative aspects often overlooked in technical roles. The discussion also touches on pathways into the sector, stressing that diverse backgrounds and transferable skills are valuable, and that continuous learning is essential. While traditional career paths exist, the panelists encourage individuals to be open to non-linear journeys and to leverage online learning resources. The overarching message is that enthusiasm and a willingness to learn are paramount for those looking to enter and thrive in this dynamic field, with a strong emphasis on the growing demand for software and IT-based skills due to the digitization of energy and transport. less

Beyond the Electric Car | Fully Charged Live 2018 Talk 17

This panel discussion from Fully Charged Live 2018 ventures beyond electric cars to explore the future of electric trucks, buses, trains, ships, and p... morelanes. Hugo Spowers of River Simple highlights their "Rasa" car, emphasizing its extreme efficiency (250 mpg equivalent) and a unique "mobility as a service" business model that covers fuel and maintenance, making efficiency profitable. Alice Gilman from Viva Rail details their battery-powered trains, which repurpose existing London Underground rolling stock and are entering service on the Welsh borders and West Midlands, with plans for automatic charging points. Peter Paul van inforced discusses his company's work supplying large battery banks for ships, focusing on swappable batteries to overcome range limitations and infrastructure challenges in ports. The panel also touches upon the rapid advancements in battery technology, the challenges of finite resources like cobalt and lithium, and the potential of alternative chemistries and hybrid solutions like hydrogen for different applications. The overarching theme is the critical need for efficiency and innovative business models to drive sustainable transport solutions across various sectors. less

Electric Vehicle Myths Busted | Fully Charged Live 2018 Talk 15

This panel discussion from Fully Charged Live 2018 effectively debunks several persistent myths surrounding electric vehicles (EVs). Key concerns addr... moreessed include the adequacy of charging infrastructure, battery longevity, and range anxiety. Panelists highlighted the significant growth in public charging points, with ample capacity available. They countered the myth of frequent battery replacement by comparing EV batteries to those in consumer electronics, noting most original batteries last the vehicle's lifespan. Range anxiety was addressed by demonstrating that daily commutes for the vast majority of drivers fall well within the capabilities of even older EV models, with home charging being a convenient and affordable option. The discussion also touched upon grid capacity concerns, suggesting that smart charging and off-peak usage can mitigate potential issues. Reliability was affirmed, with panelists emphasizing the simplicity and low maintenance of EVs compared to internal combustion engine vehicles. The session concluded that EVs are a practical and reliable choice for most consumers, busting the notion that they require special circumstances like garages or off-street parking. less

Powervault | Fully Charged

This episode of Fully Charged visits Powervault, an innovative startup focused on home energy storage. The company utilizes both new and second-life b... moreatteries, notably from Renault electric vehicles, to create sophisticated home energy management systems. Powervault's approach is praised for its potential to reduce household energy costs, support grid stability through coordinated battery usage, and even enable peer-to-peer energy trading. The integration with energy suppliers and smart tariffs is highlighted as a key future development, allowing consumers to optimize energy consumption and costs without necessarily needing solar panels. The use of second-life EV batteries is particularly lauded for its cost-effectiveness and sustainability, extending the useful life of valuable components. The technology's modularity and scalability are also emphasized, with the potential to meet diverse energy storage needs. less

Fully Charged News Panel | Episode 1

This news panel episode of Fully Charged delves into several key topics within the EV and renewable energy space. The discussion begins with Elon Musk... more's public persona and the challenges of balancing his innovative genius with expected corporate behavior, touching on the idea of profiling the engineers behind Tesla's success. A significant portion is dedicated to the controversial 'green number plate' proposal, with the panel and audience largely agreeing it's a clumsy and potentially divisive idea, preferring subtler incentives or aesthetic integration. The conversation then shifts to the Kia e-Niro, highlighting its impressive real-world range (around 300 miles) and efficiency (averaging 4.9 miles/kWh), contrasting it with the Jaguar I-Pace's lower efficiency. The episode also addresses the tragic link between air pollution and childhood asthma, emphasizing the need for faster adoption of clean technologies and better policy. Finally, the panel explores the future of autonomous vehicles, large-scale solar installations, and the challenges of decarbonizing heat, concluding with a discussion on the practicalities of EV charging and range anxiety, debunking the myth of long non-stop drives being feasible or desirable. less

BMW i3s vs Mini With A Long Name | Fully Charged

The Fully Charged review pits the BMW i3s against the MINI Countryman Cooper S All4 E PHEV, highlighting their shared BMW Group heritage but vastly di... morefferent approaches to electrification. The i3s, a four-year-old ground-up EV, is praised for its still-futuristic design, innovative use of sustainable materials, and engaging driving dynamics, particularly the 's' model's sportier suspension and wider track. Despite a relatively short range (144 miles for the REx version) and a firm ride, its engineering and driving experience are lauded, with the reviewer considering it a future classic. In contrast, the MINI Countryman is presented as a more conventional plug-in hybrid, adapted from a petrol car. While offering a larger, more practical package and alleviating range anxiety with its petrol engine, its design is criticized as bloated and uninspired, and its electrification feels like a compromise. The reviewer ultimately favors the i3s for its pure EV focus and driving engagement, though acknowledges the Countryman's broader appeal to those seeking practicality and brand loyalty over radical design and driving purity. A Golf GTE is suggested as a more complete package than the MINI. less

Tesla Model 3 Fully Charged

The Fully Charged team travels to Colorado to experience the highly anticipated Tesla Model 3, meeting with owners who have waited years for their veh... moreicles. The consensus among owners is overwhelmingly positive, praising its performance, quiet operation, and surprisingly practical saloon-like practicality despite its smaller size compared to the Model S. While the minimalist interior, dominated by a central screen, is a point of discussion, the quality of the sound system and the vegan leather are highlighted as pleasant surprises. Owners appreciate the range, with the advertised 310 miles proving sufficient for daily use and even long road trips, reducing range anxiety. The car's performance, particularly its instant torque, is a major draw, even at altitude where internal combustion engines struggle. While some minor gripes exist, such as the autopilot's lane centering and the slow 110v home charging, the overall verdict is that the Model 3 offers exceptional value, being significantly cheaper than the Model S while delivering a compelling electric driving experience. It's seen as the 'Model T' of the EV world, making electric mobility accessible. less

Hyundai Nexo Fully Charged

Robert Llewellyn test drives the Hyundai NEXO, a second-generation hydrogen fuel cell SUV, across South Korea. He highlights its spacious interior, im... morepressive trunk capacity, and advanced technology, including adaptive cruise control and blind-spot cameras that rival Tesla's Autopilot. The NEXO boasts a 600 km (370 miles) range on a full tank, refueled in just 5 minutes. A key benefit emphasized is the vehicle's ability to filter and clean the air as it drives, emitting only water and cleaner air. While acknowledging the limited hydrogen refueling infrastructure in Korea (and globally), Llewellyn points to growing international investment and the potential for hydrogen to store excess renewable energy. He also explores the vehicle's dual function as a mobile generator, capable of powering homes. The review extends to a ride on a quiet, smooth hydrogen fuel cell bus, showcasing the technology's scalability. The NEXO is praised for its innovative approach to clean transportation, though infrastructure remains a significant hurdle. less

Elon, Taycan and Liquid Batteries

This episode of Fully Charged News covers a range of EV and renewable energy topics. The hosts discuss the Elon Musk Twitter situation with a light to... moreuch, focusing more on the financial implications of his Tesla privatization tweet. A significant portion is dedicated to the exciting developments in World Rallycross, particularly the move towards electric powertrains, which is highlighted as a major step for the sport's appeal to a younger audience. The discussion then shifts to the growing battery crisis, emphasizing the importance of manufacturers producing their own batteries to mitigate supply chain issues and long waiting times for new EVs. The Porsche Taycan is featured, with a brief mention of its charging and testing, alongside a humorous anecdote about its potential financing. A promising development in flow battery technology from the University of Glasgow is presented as a potential game-changer for energy storage. The episode also touches on Volkswagen's mandated advertising campaign for EVs in the US, which notably excludes their own vehicles, and a critical look at Poland's heavy reliance on coal for electricity. Finally, the segment on tidal energy showcases a highly successful turbine in Orkney, outperforming previous experiments, and contrasts it with the controversial Hinkley Point C nuclear project and the stalled Swansea Bay tidal lagoon. The hosts express hope for the flow battery technology and the success of the Orkney turbine, while criticizing the handling of nuclear waste and the cancellation of the tidal lagoon. less

Range Rover PHEV

This episode of Fully Charged reviews the 2018 Range Rover Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), a departure from the show's usual focus but de... moreemed worthy due to its electrification efforts. The reviewer highlights the vehicle's exquisite luxury, quiet operation in EV mode, and sophisticated digital display. While acknowledging its substantial size, which makes it feel like a "ship" compared to a Tesla, the reviewer notes its "enormous amount of grunt." The claimed 30-mile electric range is considered impressive for its size, with real-world figures around 28 miles. The PHEV system, featuring a 13 kWh battery and a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, is praised for its potential to achieve over 50 mpg in hybrid mode, a significant improvement over traditional V8 diesel models. The review also touches upon the car's off-road capabilities, tested in muddy conditions, and the luxurious rear-seat experience, complete with climate control, massage, and heated seats. Despite initial prejudices against such a large, luxurious vehicle, the reviewer concludes it's an "incredible car" and a "lap of luxury," offering a comfortable and capable experience both on and off-road. less

Mixergy Hot Water Tank

This episode of Fully Charged introduces the Mixergy hot water tank, a significant departure from traditional heating systems. The core innovation lie... mores in its ability to heat only the required amount of water, leveraging thermal stratification to keep hot water separate from cold. This "Internet of Tanks" concept aims to emulate a battery, efficiently absorbing surplus renewable energy from solar panels and reducing heat loss. The reviewer highlights the tank's ability to recover quickly after significant draws, like a deep bath, and its potential to be controlled by grid price signals or mains frequency to optimize energy usage and balance the grid. While the technology is still in a trial phase, funded by the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS), the initial impressions are positive regarding its efficiency and integration into a smart energy system. The reviewer notes that the price is expected to be competitive with premium traditional tanks and significantly less than home battery systems, making it a compelling option for those with solar installations. less

Virtual Power Plant

This presentation from Chris Russell of Tonik Energy at Fully Charged Live 2018 introduces the concept of a 'Virtual Power Plant' (VPP). The... more core idea is to aggregate energy from distributed sources like home solar, batteries, and electric vehicles to create a more resilient and efficient energy system, moving away from traditional top-down generation. Russell highlights the potential for consumers to become 'prosumers,' generating and selling excess energy. He addresses challenges such as grid strain from rapid EV adoption and the need for smart grid modernization. The VPP model aims to smooth energy peaks and troughs, unlock grid services, and provide cost savings for participants. Tonik Energy's approach involves simplifying the energy supply model, integrating with smart meters, and potentially removing upfront costs for consumers to make VPP participation more accessible. The discussion also touches upon the importance of integrating renewables into new builds and the commercial viability of such systems. less

Stem For Budding Minds

This video features a panel discussion from Fully Charged Live 2018 focused on STEM education for young people. The panelists, Nina Scrpa, Laura Shaw,... more and Jessica Fain, emphasize the critical need for more individuals in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields, particularly in the UK, to address global challenges and drive innovation in areas like renewable energy and electric vehicles. They highlight significant gender disparities in STEM, with very few girls pursuing engineering degrees. The discussion explores misconceptions about STEM careers, the transferable skills gained, and the motivation for young people to enter these fields, often driven by a desire to 'change the world.' Innovative educational approaches, including the use of video games for medical training and the importance of accessible online learning resources, are also discussed. The overarching message is that STEM education opens up a world of opportunities, fosters problem-solving skills, and is essential for future progress. less

Vehicle-To-Grid: Fully Charged Live 2018 Talk 12

This discussion from Fully Charged Live 2018 delves into the transformative potential of Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology. The panelists highlight V2G... more not as a drain on electric vehicle batteries, but as an advantageous integration that allows EVs to act as mobile power packs. Key benefits discussed include supporting the grid, enabling owners to earn money by selling surplus power back to electricity suppliers, and potentially offsetting charging costs. The technology is presented as a crucial component for integrating more renewables into the grid. While acknowledging early-stage development and complexity, the speakers emphasize the significant economic and environmental upsides, particularly for fleet operators and homeowners with solar installations. The primary concerns addressed are battery longevity, with assurances that controlled V2G cycling can be beneficial, and the user experience, managed through smart platforms like OVO's V Charge, which allows users to set minimum charge levels. The discussion also touches on the current limitations, such as V2G not yet being supported by CCS charging standards and the initial reliance on specific models like the Nissan Leaf and NV200. less

Total Cost of EV Ownership

This panel discussion from Fully Charged Live 2018 delves into the crucial topic of Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for electric vehicles (EVs). The exp... moreerts highlight that while the upfront cost of EVs can be higher, significant savings are realized through dramatically lower running costs, particularly in fuel and maintenance. Brake pads last three times longer, and servicing is minimal, with fewer moving parts compared to traditional internal combustion engine cars. The discussion also touches upon government incentives, the variability of petrol and diesel prices, and the surprisingly strong residual values of used EVs, with demand outstripping supply. While acknowledging that EVs may not suit every application yet, the consensus is that for most users, especially in urban environments and for fleet operations, EVs offer a compelling financial advantage, future-proofing against rising fuel costs and emissions regulations. Battery leasing is cautioned against due to long-term cost-effectiveness concerns. less

Why Megatrends Trump Politics | Fully Charged Live 2018 Talk 10

This discussion from Fully Charged Live 2018 posits that global megatrends, particularly the rapid adoption of renewable energy and electric vehicles,... more are an unstoppable force that will ultimately supersede political resistance. The panelists highlight that the inherent technological superiority, efficiency, and economic benefits of clean technologies are the primary drivers of this transition, not just environmental concerns. While acknowledging political headwinds, especially from administrations perceived as pro-fossil fuel, the consensus is that these are temporary obstacles. The conversation touches on the importance of effective storytelling to communicate these advantages and the generational shift towards valuing utility over ownership, exemplified by the rise of ride-sharing and autonomous vehicles. The panel expresses optimism about the future of clean tech companies, despite the need for government support, and identifies electrification of transport (beyond consumer cars) and long-duration energy storage as key growth areas. The overall sentiment is that the transition is inevitable and will accelerate rapidly, driven by economics and technological advancement. less

Q&A with Bobby & Jonny | Fully Charged Live 2018 Talk 9

This video captures a Q&A session with Robert Llewellyn and Jonny Smith at Fully Charged Live 2018. The discussion delves into their personal jour... moreneys into electric vehicles, with Llewellyn recalling a pivotal experience in a Toyota Prius and Smith mentioning early radio-controlled cars and a pre-production Nissan Leaf. They also contrast traditional TV production with the freedom and immediacy of YouTube, highlighting the lower costs and greater editorial control of self-publishing. Future plans for the Fully Charged show include exploring bolder adventures, potentially a hybrid 'Scrappy Challenge' style show, and recording episodes in front of live audiences. Exciting upcoming content includes VW's attempt to break the Pikes Peak record with an electric vehicle and features on large-scale solar and battery installations. A key point raised is the need for standardized EV efficiency measurements, moving beyond the traditional 'miles per kWh' to a more universally understood metric. less

Electrifying Ev Classics | Fully Charged Live 2018 Talk 6

This discussion from Fully Charged Live 2018 delves into the burgeoning trend of electrifying classic internal combustion engine vehicles. The panel, ... morefeaturing experts like Sally Pavlovsky, Dorian Hindmarch, and Richard Morgan, highlights the growing appeal of combining classic aesthetics with modern EV technology. Key benefits discussed include simplified maintenance due to fewer moving parts, environmental advantages over purchasing new vehicles, and potential cost savings. The experts emphasize that while the conversion process itself can be straightforward, particularly for pre-mid-80s vehicles without complex electronics, safety and homologation are paramount. They caution against compromising structural integrity and stress the importance of using certified components and correct installation. The discussion also touches on the practicalities of range for classic conversions, noting that typical usage patterns often make shorter ranges perfectly adequate. Ultimately, the consensus is that electrifying classics offers a compelling way to preserve beloved vehicle shapes while embracing sustainable technology, though careful consideration of safety and regulatory compliance is essential. less

What the Watt? Fully Charged Live 2018 Talk 7

This talk from Fully Charged Live 2018 features Robert Llewellyn in conversation with physicist Dr. Helen Czerski, aiming to demystify the concepts of... more kilowatts and kilowatt-hours for electric vehicle owners. Dr. Czerski effectively breaks down complex energy units using relatable analogies, such as lifting an apple to explain Joules and comparing electric car power consumption to household kettles. The discussion highlights the Tesla Model S's average power consumption (10-18 kW) versus peak power, and contrasts this with the much higher power demands of rapid charging. A key takeaway is the distinction between power (kW) and energy (kWh), and the practical limitations of charging speeds due to heat generation and material constraints. The conversation also touches upon the future of charging, including battery buffering and the theoretical potential of superconducting materials, while emphasizing that heat is the primary enemy of efficiency in energy transfer. less

Enabling the Next Tesla

This talk from Fully Charged Live 2018 focuses on the challenges and strategies for scaling up eco-friendly startups, using Tesla as a benchmark. The ... morepanel, featuring George Donahue (Calvin Capital), Andrew Bissell (Sanam Heat Batteries), and Phil Caldwell (SWM), discusses the critical need for capital, strategic partnerships, and leveraging existing supply chains to move from prototype to mass production. Bissell highlights the development of compact, high-density heat batteries as a crucial component for decarbonizing home heating, emphasizing a decade-long journey through three generations of technology. Caldwell details SWM's fuel cell technology, which offers fuel flexibility (biofuels, natural gas, hydrogen) and high efficiency, finding applications in data centers, automotive range extenders, and stationary power. Both emphasize that a single technological 'winner' is unlikely, but rather a synergistic ecosystem of complementary technologies is needed to achieve a zero-carbon future. The discussion also touches upon the importance of infrastructure, like charging networks, and consumer choice in driving the transition. less

EV101 - Fully Charged Live 2018 Talk 2

This panel discussion from Fully Charged Live 2018 offers an introductory perspective on electric vehicles, featuring insights from industry professio... morenals. The speakers share their personal journeys into the EV space, highlighting motivations ranging from renewable energy integration to a desire for innovative automotive technology. A key theme is demystifying EVs for potential adopters, addressing common concerns like range anxiety by emphasizing the growing charging infrastructure and the convenience of home charging. The discussion touches upon the role of plug-in hybrids as a stepping stone to full EVs and forecasts a significant increase in EV model availability and adoption in the coming years. The speakers also underscore the environmental benefits and the potential for cost savings associated with EV ownership, particularly when combined with renewable energy sources. The overall sentiment is optimistic, encouraging viewers to experience EVs firsthand and highlighting the supportive community of EV drivers. less