Out of Spec Reviews

Tesla Just Fired Their Entire Charging Team! Impacts, Future Supercharger Sites, & Industry Shakeup

This video addresses the significant and surprising layoffs within Tesla's charging division, a move the reviewer deems one of the biggest blows ... moreto EV adoption in years. While the immediate impact on current Supercharger network functionality and maintenance appears minimal due to the retention of technicians, the long-term ramifications are deeply concerning. The reviewer highlights the loss of momentum in expanding the network, the potential disruption to automakers who have committed to Tesla's NACS standard, and the uncertainty surrounding future charger deployments and the rollout of V4 chargers. The video speculates on potential reasons for the layoffs, including hardware limitations and issues with V4 chargers and interoperability with newer EVs. Ultimately, the reviewer expresses confusion and concern, emphasizing the loss of trust among automakers and the potential for significant delays in charging infrastructure development, though acknowledging that talented individuals from the departed team may find roles in other growing charging companies. less

Electric Fiat 500e Is Now In America! Full Review & My First Drive

The Fiat 500e makes a charming return to the US market, emphasizing its iconic Italian design and a more substantial 42 kWh battery compared to its pr... moreedecessor. While the "Red Edition" trim reviewed offers a delightful aesthetic and a surprisingly engaging city driving experience with a tight turning radius and nimble handling, it falls short on premium features. The interior, though pleasant, is largely composed of hard plastics, and essential amenities like heated seats and adaptive cruise control are reserved for higher trims, which significantly increase the price. The infotainment system is functional but lacks responsiveness and advanced features like charge limiting. Performance is adequate for city driving, with a 0-60 mph time of 8.5 seconds, but highway passing power is limited. Real-world range is estimated around 125-140 miles, which is sufficient for most urban commutes, especially with the addition of DC fast charging. Despite its premium price point (starting around $34,000), the 500e's biggest draw is its undeniable personality, making it a fun, albeit niche, alternative to more utilitarian EVs. less

Hands On With The New Tesla Model 3 Performance: Interior Review, Software, Track Mode, and All Changes

The reviewer provides a first look at the new Tesla Model 3 Performance, highlighting its upgrades over the previous generation and standard Highland ... moremodel. Key improvements include a revised bumper, diffuser, wheels, and tires, along with a new fourth-gen drive unit offering increased continuous and peak power, though the overall vehicle power output is noted as potentially battery-limited. The enhanced Track Mode V3 with a "full off" stability assist option and a new adaptive damping system are significant software and hardware updates. Aerodynamic improvements are also noted. While the reviewer expresses a desire for even more extreme performance, they acknowledge that Tesla has focused on a well-rounded sports sedan that offers exceptional value, especially considering its price point and eligibility for tax credits, making it cheaper than the Long Range AWD model. The interior features sport seats with aggressive bolstering and textured trim. The reviewer is impressed with the car's value proposition and overall refinement, suggesting Tesla has 'nailed it' for the price. less

I Drive The Porsche Macan EV For The First Time!

The Porsche Macan EV makes a compelling debut, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and practicality that largely lives up to the Porsche name. Th... moree reviewer highlights the Macan 4 as the sensible choice for most buyers, praising its comfortable ride, quiet cabin, and surprisingly spacious interior, which feels more accommodating than the combustion Macan. The steering is consistently lauded as precise and communicative, a hallmark of Porsche. However, the lack of one-pedal driving is noted as a significant miss, potentially alienating existing EV users. The Macan Turbo, while offering more power and slightly different chassis hardware, presents a more focused performance variant, though the price gap narrows its appeal for some. Real-world range is confirmed to be over 300 miles at 70 mph, and charging performance is strong. While software integration lags behind some competitors, the Macan EV excels in delivering a refined, engaging driving experience suitable for both daily commutes and spirited drives. less

Porsche Sells An Electric Boat With A Macan EV Powertrain: Frauscher x Porsche 850 Fantom Air

The Frauscher x Porsche 850 Fantom Air represents a unique fusion of automotive and marine engineering, leveraging the Porsche Macan EV's powertr... moreain for an electric day cruiser. The reviewer highlights the seamless integration of the 100 kWh battery pack and the Macan Turbo's rear motor, enabling impressive acceleration and a surprisingly sporty performance on the water, reaching up to 40 knots. Key advantages include the near-silent operation, instant torque, and the sophisticated Porsche-designed cockpit, which enhances the premium feel. However, the high price point (around €550,000) positions it as a luxury item, primarily for superyacht owners or affluent lake dwellers. While the boat can DC fast charge at up to 270 kW, the practical range is estimated at 50 km or 2-3 hours of driving, suitable for day cruising. The reviewer notes that while the powertrain is robust, some components, like the clutch and limited top speed (85 km/h), are implemented for marine-specific durability and comfort, indicating potential for future enhancements in a Gen 2 product. less

I Drive The Spicy Hyundai IONIQ 5 N For The First Time! Full Tour + Road & Track Driving Review

The Hyundai IONIQ 5 N represents a significant leap in performance EVs, transforming the already capable IONIQ 5 into a track-focused machine. The rev... moreiewer highlights the extensive engineering effort, noting that not a single suspension component is shared with the standard model, and praises the addition of 42 extra welding points for enhanced structural rigidity. Key features like the N Drift Optimizer, NGB (N Grin Boost), and various track-focused modes (Sprint, Endurance) are detailed, offering a deep dive into the car's performance capabilities. While the reviewer appreciates the car's handling and power, particularly with NGB activated, they express a desire for even more power and find the simulated transmission sounds and shifts to be unnecessary and artificial. The reviewer also notes the car's significant weight but commends its manageable feel and impressive track performance, especially with ESC fully disabled. The pricing at just under $67,000 is considered a strong value proposition for the performance offered. less

Testing This Electric Family Hauler’s Driver Assistance! Kia EV9 Takes On The Hogback Trials (HDA2)

The Kia EV9 Light Long Range was put through rigorous driver assistance testing on the challenging I-70 Hogback trials. While the system offers a comp... morerehensive suite of features, including automatic lane changes and adaptive cruise control with learning capabilities, its performance in critical safety scenarios was found to be lacking. Notably, the system disengages steering without sufficient warning or a gradual slowdown in emergencies, a significant safety concern. Despite this, the EV9's driver assistance performs well on straight highways, offering a comfortable and confidence-inspiring experience for long-distance driving. However, its tendency to hug the outside of lanes in corners and occasional failures in complex situations, particularly on the return trip, highlight areas for improvement. The powertrain was also noted as being underpowered for its size and weight. less

Next Generation Electric BMW SUV Is Closer To Production Than You Think! Neue Klasse X Full Tour

The BMW Neue Klasse X concept, making its US debut, presents a compelling vision for BMW's electric future. The reviewer expresses significant ap... moreproval for the design language, calling it the best electrified BMW since the i3 and a refreshing departure from recent polarizing models like the iX and XM. Key highlights include the scaled-down, modern interpretation of the kidney grille with 3D lighting elements, the spacious interior enabled by the electric-first platform, and the advanced, intuitive UI/UX of the new iDrive system. The vehicle boasts an 800-volt architecture, multiple battery size options (75, 90, 105 kWh), and claims of 30% improvement in charging and range, with a notable 186 miles of range achievable in 10 minutes. The platform is future-proofed for quad-motor setups. While acknowledging the conceptual nature of the interior and some exterior elements (like digital mirrors), the reviewer is highly optimistic about the production intent, particularly for the software and overall design ethos. The focus on sustainability and recyclability throughout the vehicle's lifecycle is also noted as a positive step. less

I Drive The Taycan Turbo GT For The First Time! Porsche Dials Up Their EV Performance To 11

The Porsche Taycan Turbo GT represents a significant escalation in EV performance, pushing the boundaries beyond the already impressive Turbo S. This ... more"halo car" is presented as a two-seat electric supercar, with the "Weissach" package further enhancing its track focus by shedding weight and optimizing aerodynamics. Reviewers highlight its immense power (over 1000 hp), sophisticated Porsche Active Ride suspension that redefines handling dynamics, and impressive charging capabilities. While the Turbo GT offers a more engaging driving experience than its predecessors and even rivals like the Tesla Model S Plaid, its high price point positions it as a niche product. The Weissach package, in particular, is lauded for its weight savings and aerodynamic gains, making it a true track weapon, though it sacrifices practicality by removing the rear seats. The consensus is that Porsche has successfully dialed up EV performance to an extreme level, offering a compelling, albeit expensive, driving machine. less

I Drive The Incredibly Fun Rivian Commercial Van For The First Time! Full Tour, Range, & Charging

The Rivian Commercial Van (RCV 500) is presented as an incredibly fun and capable electric vehicle, particularly in its Service Van configuration. The... more reviewer highlights its surprising acceleration and silent operation, comparing it favorably to other electric vans like the BrightDrop. Key pros include its exceptional visibility from the driver's seat, customizable interior space, and the unique proximity-based door unlocking system. The LFP battery is noted for its durability and ability to charge to 100%. However, the reviewer points out a lack of navigation and preconditioning features on this specific model, and the charging speed was unexpectedly low (around 44 kW) even at a Rivian factory charger, possibly due to cold battery temperatures or software limitations on this internal fleet vehicle. The reviewer also notes the absence of lane centering and a less intuitive climate control system. Despite these points, the overall impression is highly positive, emphasizing the van's potential for fleet use and even personal conversion projects. less

Rivian R2 Full Tour: Interior + Exterior Detailed Look, NACS Port, Software, & R1S Size Comparison

The Rivian R2 presents a compelling package, aiming to capture the midsize SUV market with a starting price of $45,000. The design retains Rivian'... more;s signature aesthetic, scaled down from the R1S, and introduces the NACS port natively. Key interior highlights include innovative haptic scroll wheels on the steering wheel, a massive glass roof, and a spacious cabin that feels airy and premium, comparable to its larger siblings. The rear cargo area offers versatility with a drop-down glass and a tailgate-like shelf. While the prototype showcased impressive materials and software, potential buyers should note that final production details, including exact range figures for all variants and potential price increases, are still to be confirmed. The reviewer expresses optimism about its potential to compete with vehicles like the Tesla Model Y, praising its design, potential performance, and Rivian's commitment to software updates, while also suggesting improvements like rear HVAC vents and a rear wiper (which Rivian confirmed will be included). less

Rivian Van RCV 500 Q&A

This livestream offers an early look at the Rivian RCV 500, specifically a kitted-out service van variant. The reviewer highlights its significantly i... moremproved driving dynamics compared to a Sprinter, noting a comfortable ride and ample interior space, even for taller individuals. Key features include extensive onboard power outlets (NEMA 14-50 and 120V), a loud but functional cargo fan, and a unique heated jump seat. However, the charging speed is a notable drawback, with peak rates around 44 kW and a slow 22 kW at 82% charge, making it unsuitable for road trips. The reviewer also points out the inability to use heating while DC charging and the basic software interface. Despite its limitations for personal use, the RCV 500 is praised as an excellent, high-quality fleet and service vehicle, though its high price point (over $80,000 for a base model) is a significant barrier. less

New Electric Chevys Explored: Silverado, Blazer, & Equinox - Price, Features, Range & Competition

This video provides an in-depth look at three of Chevrolet's latest electric offerings: the Silverado EV, Blazer EV, and Equinox EV, presented at... more the Denver Auto Show. The Silverado EV, particularly the RST trim, is highlighted for its impressive specifications, including a massive 215 kWh battery, a 440-mile range, and over 370 kW charging capability, positioning it as a segment leader. The reviewer praises its consumer-focused features like the Multi-Flex Midgate and solid interior controls, though notes the charge port's rear location is inconvenient for towing. The Blazer EV, available in RWD, FWD, and AWD, is presented as a competitive option, especially in its RS trim, but its $55,000 starting price is questioned against the Tesla Model Y's better value proposition and tax credit eligibility. The Equinox EV is discussed as a potential successor to the Bolt, aiming for an attractive $35,000 entry price with an 85 kWh battery and over 300 miles of range, though its final specs and pricing remain somewhat uncertain. Overall, GM is seen as making a strong, albeit late, push into the EV market with a diverse portfolio. less

EVs Explained Off Road: Dual Motor vs Tri Motor vs Quad Motor - Locking Diffs vs Virtual Lockers

This video effectively contrasts the off-road powertrain control logic of four distinct electric pickup trucks: the Chevrolet Silverado EV (Dual Motor... more), Ford F-150 Lightning (Dual Motor with rear locker), Tesla Cybertruck (Tri-Motor Cyberbeast), and Rivian R1T (Quad-Motor). The reviewer highlights the limitations of open differentials, as demonstrated by the Silverado EV's inability to climb the test hill without significant throttle and brake intervention. The F-150 Lightning showcases the clear advantage of a physical rear locking differential for consistent traction. The Tesla Cybertruck, despite lacking its final software update for the front locker, performs surprisingly well using brake-based torque vectoring and its independent rear motors, though it struggles with rapid grip changes. The Rivian R1T's quad-motor system, while offering impressive articulation thanks to its sway bars, requires substantial throttle input due to its software's limitation on individual motor power output, making it less intuitive than a traditional locker for extreme situations. The reviewer concludes that while software-controlled systems offer potential, physical locking differentials provide superior predictability and consistency for off-road scenarios. less

Setting The Benchmark! Chevy Silverado EV 4WT vs The Rustic Ring Electric Vehicle Towing Challenge

The Chevrolet Silverado EV 4WT undergoes an extreme towing challenge on the Rustic Ring, carrying approximately 10,000 lbs. The reviewer highlights it... mores substantial 215 kWh battery pack, nearly double that of the Cybertruck, which contributes to impressive range potential. While the 4WT trim offers a lower payload and towing capacity (10,000 lbs max) compared to the 3WT due to its larger battery, it still demonstrates strong performance. The truck is praised for its stability, especially on downhill sections where it effectively utilizes regen braking, even at high states of charge, without overheating. The integrated trailer brake controller with manual adjustment is a significant advantage over competitors. However, criticisms include the accelerator pedal's ergonomics, which can lead to leg fatigue, and the overactive trailer brake engagement when lifting off the throttle, which impacts efficiency. The reviewer also notes the lack of temperature data display and the slower steering, though beneficial for towing stability, requires more input. Despite these points, the Silverado EV 4WT is deemed a capable and stable towing platform, setting a high benchmark for electric truck towing capabilities. less

Ran It To Dead! Chevy Silverado 3WT (~180kWh) 70-MPH Highway Range Test

The Chevrolet Silverado EV 3WT Work Truck underwent a rigorous 70 mph highway range test, ultimately achieving 329 miles before reaching full drivetra... morein power loss. While this falls slightly short of the projected 360 miles (and significantly less than the 4WT's 430 miles), the result is heavily attributed to brutal, persistent headwinds encountered on the return leg of the test, which drastically reduced efficiency. The reviewer noted the truck's comfortable highway cruising and impressive regenerative braking, but highlighted concerns about unpolished software, particularly regarding charging inconsistencies and the lack of advanced driver-assistance features like lane centering, which necessitated constant manual steering in strong crosswinds. Despite these drawbacks, the Silverado EV 3WT is deemed a capable work truck with substantial highway range, especially when considering the challenging conditions and the smaller 180 kWh battery pack compared to higher trims. less

Electric Trucks Tow 500 Miles Over The Rocky Mountains: Cybertruck vs Lightning vs Silverado EV vs R1T

This video pits four electric trucks – the F-150 Lightning, Rivian R1T, Chevy Silverado EV, and Tesla Cybertruck – against a grueling towing challenge... more over the Rocky Mountains. The primary goal is to test their real-world towing capabilities and charging efficiency on a round trip from Denver to Grand Junction. The reviewer highlights the Silverado EV's impressive range and towing performance, noting its large battery and robust feel. The F-150 Lightning is praised for its comprehensive towing technology, while the Rivian R1T is commended for its smooth ride and improving regen capabilities. The Cybertruck, despite its power, faces criticism for its twitchy steering while towing and a frustratingly slow charging experience at an older Supercharger station, significantly hampering its race potential. The navigation systems of several trucks, particularly the Cybertruck, are called out for their unreliability and inability to accurately plan routes with trailers. Ultimately, the test emphasizes the practical challenges of long-distance EV towing, including charging infrastructure accessibility and vehicle-specific performance nuances. less

This $40,000 Tesla Solar and Powerwall Setup Is the Ultimate Home Power Station

This video explores an impressive, integrated Tesla solar and Powerwall system installed in New York, showcasing a homeowner's setup designed for... more energy autonomy and backup power. The reviewer highlights the system's components: a 10.2 kW Tesla solar array (which appears to be outperforming its nominal rating), two Powerwall 2 units providing approximately 25 kWh of storage, and both a Tesla Model 3 and Model Y. Key takeaways include the system's primary purpose as a backup during power outages, the aesthetic integration with no external conduit, and the potential for significant cost savings, with one owner reporting bills as low as $15. The review also delves into optimizing energy usage, particularly by adjusting Powerwall discharge settings and prioritizing charging EVs with excess solar to reduce grid export. While the reviewer admits to being new to energy systems, the detailed look at the Tesla app data and the homeowner's positive two-year experience with the system make for an informative, albeit introductory, overview. less

Tesla Cybertruck Takes On The Rustic Ring, Our Extreme Towing Challenge

The Tesla Cybertruck Cyberbeast was subjected to the extreme 'Rustic Ring' towing challenge, hauling approximately 10,000 lbs through varied... more terrain including steep ascents, descents, dirt roads, and tight switchbacks. While the Cybertruck demonstrated impressive powertrain thermal management and chassis stability, capable of handling the immense load with ample acceleration, significant drawbacks were identified. The steer-by-wire system's quick ratio proved challenging and potentially dangerous when towing, requiring extremely gentle inputs. Furthermore, regenerative braking was severely limited during long descents, forcing reliance on friction brakes which were deemed inadequate. The charging curve is also a concern, with slow charging speeds at lower states of charge and a poorly placed rear charge port hindering towing practicality. Despite its power and stability, the Cybertruck is not optimized for heavy towing, with combustion vehicles remaining the superior choice for such tasks. less

Electric Pickup Truck Range Test! We Ran All Of Them To Dead

This comprehensive range test pitted four leading electric pickup trucks against each other: the Tesla Cybertruck Cyberbeast, Rivian R1T Dual-Motor La... morerge Pack, Chevy Silverado EV 4WT, and Ford F-150 Lightning Extended Range Lariat. The primary objective was to determine real-world range by driving each vehicle until it completely stopped, under standardized 70 mph conditions on a warm, low-wind day. The Ford F-150 Lightning Lariat emerged as the least capable, achieving 282 miles, significantly below its EPA rating. The Tesla Cybertruck Cyberbeast performed surprisingly well, exceeding its quoted range with 304 miles. The Rivian R1T Dual-Motor Large Pack delivered an impressive 345 miles, outperforming its previous test results. The standout performer was the Chevy Silverado EV 4WT, achieving a remarkable 435 miles, nearly breaking the overall EV range record, despite its lower efficiency compared to sedans. The video highlights the practical challenges of extreme range testing, including charging issues and the need for auxiliary power sources, while providing valuable, albeit sometimes surprising, real-world data for consumers. less

My First Look At The Audi Q6 E-Tron! Tech Specs, Quick Tour, & First Drive

The Audi Q6 e-tron and SQ6 e-tron represent a significant step forward for Audi's electric lineup, built on the new PPE platform shared with the ... morePorsche Macan EV. The reviewer praises the striking exterior design, particularly the customizable OLED lighting signatures and the aggressive 'Quattro blisters.' Inside, the cabin impresses with responsive screens, a unique passenger display, and a spacious feel, though the abundance of piano black trim is noted as a fingerprint magnet. The SQ6 variant offers sporty Alcantara seats and a more performance-oriented feel. Key engineering highlights include a 100 kWh battery (94.4 kWh usable in the US) with advanced cooling, asynchronous front and permanent magnet rear motors, and the introduction of one-pedal driving, a first for Audi's e-tron SUVs. While official range and pricing are still TBD, an estimated 300 miles EPA is anticipated. Charging is robust at 270 kW peak, with a split-charging capability for 400V systems. The reviewer finds the Q6 e-tron a compelling package, potentially overshadowing the Q8 e-tron for many buyers, and eagerly awaits real-world testing. less

Rivian Gains Access To The Tesla Supercharger Network! My First Charging Experience

This video documents the first official charging experience of a Rivian R1T on the Tesla Supercharger network, following Rivian's recent integrat... moreion. The reviewer highlights the ease of use with the official adapter, noting the ISO 15118 certificate exchange and the charging speeds achieved, which are limited by the R1T's 500-amp request rather than the Supercharger's output. Key benefits discussed include the significant expansion of charging options, reducing range anxiety for owners, and the improved reliability compared to public charging networks. The review also touches on practicalities like cable placement, the need for specific adapters (official recommended over third-party), and the potential for future improvements with V4 Superchargers and native NACS ports. While the Tesla membership pricing isn't integrated with Rivian's Plug & Charge, the overall verdict is overwhelmingly positive, praising the move as a major win for the EV industry and Rivian owners. less

I've Had My Cybertruck For 1 Week & 4,500 Miles! Here's What I Think After Driving It Across America

After one week and 4,500 miles of extensive cross-country driving, the Tesla Cybertruck Cyberbeast proves to be a polarizing yet impressive vehicle. T... morehe reviewer highlights its phenomenal power, acceleration, and surprisingly high build quality, noting it as the most well-put-together Tesla experienced to date. The steer-by-wire system is lauded for city driving, and the integrated software, including the dash cam and infotainment, is considered best-in-class. Positives also include the smooth power tonneau cover and the useful 240V power outlet for charging other vehicles. However, significant drawbacks are noted: real-world highway range falls short of Tesla's claims, estimated at just over 200 miles at 75-85 mph, and the lack of a spare tire is a major oversight for an adventure-oriented vehicle. The reviewer also criticizes the ineffective wireless phone charger, the inability to fully disable stability control for spirited driving, and the suboptimal performance of the stock Goodyear tires in snow. Public reception is overwhelmingly positive and curious, contrasting sharply with online negativity. Despite its flaws, the Cybertruck is described as exciting and a potential game-changer, though it has yet to dethrone the Rivian R1T as the reviewer's preferred truck. less

The Volkswagen ID.4 Gets Huge Updates For 2024 Software Hardware And Pricing Updates For America

The 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 receives significant software and hardware updates, addressing key criticisms from previous model years. The reviewer highlig... morehts the vastly improved infotainment system with a faster interface and backlit controls, along with crucial additions like route planning with charging stops and battery preconditioning. A major positive is the shift to SK battery packs for all large battery models, ensuring faster charging speeds (up to 190 kW) and eliminating the inconsistency of the previous LG battery packs. The new AP550 motor offers more power, particularly noticeable in the RWD version, though the AWD gains are less dramatic. Downsides include the continued high price point compared to competitors like the Tesla Model Y, and the fact that the smaller 62 kWh battery pack does not receive these substantial updates. The reviewer also notes the discontinuation of unlimited free charging at Electrify America, replaced by a 500 kWh allowance and a complimentary Pass Plus membership, which is seen as a more sensible approach. While the driving dynamics remain largely the same, the software and charging improvements make the ID.4 a much more competitive and user-friendly EV. less

I Deep Froze My Tesla And Immediately Plugged It Into A Supercharger To See What Happens

First Kandi K27 EV Drive - The Cheapest New Car In The USA!

You Won't Believe How Much It Costs To Charge The Hummer EV!

Towing With An Electric Truck - Is It Cheaper Than Gas? Rivian R1T vs Ford F-150 PowerBoost

They Don't Work In The Cold...

Tesla Model Y Refresh Full Tour! My First Look At New Juniper Changes

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