Electric Vehicle Man

Are Electric Cars About To Pay Double To Charge At Home?

This video debunks the sensationalist claim that home EV charging costs are set to double. The presenter meticulously analyzes the Octopus Energy ... more9;Intelligent Go' tariff, explaining that the perceived doubling of costs stems from a misunderstanding of tariff changes and a specific, albeit rare, worst-case scenario. The core issue is a change in how the tariff handles prolonged charging sessions, capping the cheapest rate at six hours. While this could lead to higher costs if a user needs to charge for longer periods, especially for long journeys or unexpected low battery situations, the presenter argues this is not representative of typical usage. For 99% of journeys, which are under 100 miles, and with sensible charging habits (charging frequently but for shorter durations), the cost savings remain substantial. The presenter highlights their own charging costs, averaging 8.5p/kWh, which is significantly cheaper than petrol, even with projected tax increases. The video criticizes the spread of misinformation online and advocates for a more unified driver approach to government taxation, rather than inter-brand rivalry. less

Hyundai Inster - Simply Brilliant!

The Hyundai Inster is presented as an exceptional value proposition in the small EV market, challenging established norms with its pricing and practic... moreality. The reviewer highlights its impressive range, comparable to a Tesla Model 3 standard range, and a starting price under £20,000, making it a standout option. Key strengths include its narrow width for easy urban driving and parking, and remarkable interior practicality, particularly the highly configurable boot space with independently moving rear seats and a fold-flat option. The interior, while quirky and perhaps an acquired taste with its "grandma spec" styling and numerous buttons, is praised for its functionality and surprising quality feel in areas like the steering wheel and stalks, reminiscent of the Ionic 5. Downsides are minimal, with the front-mounted charging port being a concern for potential low-speed impacts and the exterior styling being divisive. Performance is described as adequate rather than exciting, but the comfortable ride and quiet cabin are significant positives. The reviewer concludes that for its price, the Inster offers an unparalleled package, making it the best value EV tested. less

Heat Pumps - What's Going On?

The video addresses the polarized opinions surrounding heat pumps, attributing the division to installation quality rather than inherent technological... more flaws. The reviewer emphasizes that proper heat loss calculations are paramount for a positive experience, likening the process to architectural design where a flawed plan leads to a poor outcome, regardless of the builder's skill. The presenter shares a personal struggle to find competent installers, highlighting that many heating engineers lack the specialized knowledge for heat pump calculations. He contrasts this with typical gas boiler installations where efficiency was historically less critical due to cheap fuel. The review debunks the myth that heat pumps cannot function in winter, citing Scandinavian usage and personal experience in cold UK weather. The core message is that a poorly installed or oversized heat pump will be inefficient and costly, leading to negative perceptions, while a correctly sized and installed unit provides comfortable, efficient heating. The reviewer recommends using resources like the Heatgeek website to find qualified installers. less

Ford Capri EV Makes The ID4/5 Look Dated

The Ford Capri EV, built on Volkswagen's ID.4/ID.5 platform, aims to revitalize an iconic nameplate. While the exterior styling is deemed bland a... morend uninspired by the reviewer, the interior significantly improves upon its VW counterparts. Highlights include clever hidden storage, a well-integrated infotainment screen, and a generally pleasant cabin ambiance with soft-touch materials. Practicality is a strong suit, offering a large boot and ample rear passenger space, characteristic of a family car. However, the reviewer criticizes the pricing strategy, particularly the cheapest model exceeding £40,000 and the top-tier AWD model reaching nearly £57,000, which is considered poor value. Real-world range is estimated at around 280 miles for the extended range version and 225-230 miles for the smaller battery. Despite its flaws, especially the controversial use of the Capri name for a vehicle so dissimilar to the original, the reviewer suggests that used or leased models offer significant value, making it a compelling, albeit imperfect, Ford EV offering. less

BYD Seal - Simply Overpriced!

The BYD Seal is presented as a premium electric sedan, but the reviewer finds its pricing to be its biggest downfall, deeming it "simply overpric... moreed." While acknowledging its quick acceleration (nearly 500 horsepower) and a decent interior with some premium touches like a panoramic roof and a rotating screen, the reviewer highlights several shortcomings. The car is criticized for its "eco tires" which don't suit its performance, a lack of handling finesse, grabby brakes, and software-based driving quirks. The interior, though attempting a premium feel with Alcantara-like materials, is let down by glossy black switches and a reliance on screen-based controls, with the reviewer suggesting a need for more physical knobs. Compared to the Tesla Model 3, the Seal is seen as trying too hard for luxury, with Tesla's simplicity often winning out. The reviewer concludes that the Seal is not a bad car, but its list price of around £46,000 makes it uncompetitive against rivals like the Tesla Model 3 Standard Range (under £40,000) and other EVs in the same bracket. A significant discount on pre-registered models (£33,000) suggests its true market value is much lower, making it a compelling option only at a significantly reduced price point, ideally between £35,000 and £40,000. less

Ford Puma E - The Ideal Second Car!

The Ford Puma E is presented as an ideal second car, particularly for couples or smaller families, offering a compelling blend of practicality and dri... moreving enjoyment at an attractive price point. The reviewer highlights its exceptionally large boot as a standout feature, providing ample space for practical needs like trips to the garden center or tip. While the interior is described as functional with hard plastics, it's deemed appropriate for the car's segment and price. The infotainment system, though screen-heavy, is functional, especially with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. A key positive is the driving experience, which retains Ford's traditional handling prowess, offering good communication and a connected feel to the road, making it more of a driver's car than expected for its class. The 170hp powertrain is deemed more than adequate, providing a surprising turn of speed. The main drawback identified is the range, which, while sufficient for many, might be a limiting factor for those needing extensive daily travel, making it more suited as a second car than a primary one for some. The pricing, especially after grants and with potential dealer discounts, is considered a significant bargain, making it a highly recommended option in its segment. less

BYD Dolphin Surf - What's Wrong With It?

The BYD Dolphin Surf is positioned as one of the most affordable EVs in the UK market, and the review highlights its strong value proposition, particu... morelarly on the used market where a 6-month-old, higher-spec model can be found for around £18,500. The reviewer emphasizes that expectations are key, and for its price, the Dolphin Surf exceeds them. Positives include its compact size, making it exceptionally easy to park and maneuver in urban environments, and surprisingly practical interior packaging with good headroom and a decent boot. The driving experience is described as better than expected, with good damping and a comfortable ride for daily use, offering surprising "pork" and fun potential, especially with better tires. Negatives are subtle, with the reviewer noting hard-wearing plastics and less premium button feel, and a lack of rear USB ports and a place for drinks in the back. The design is polarizing, described as "a bit Chinese" and not conventionally attractive, but the reviewer argues this is secondary to its affordability and functionality. Overall, it's recommended as a sensible, practical, and surprisingly capable city car or second car, offering excellent value for money. less

We Bought A Faulty Electric Car To See If It Can Be Fixed

The EV channel team purchased a 2017 Renault Zoe 40 kWh with a reported motor fault for £1,450, aiming to demonstrate that electric vehicles can be re... morepaired affordably outside the main dealer network. Despite the significant known issue, the initial inspection revealed the car to be in surprisingly good condition for its age and mileage (nearly 80,000 miles). The exterior and interior show minimal wear, the tires are premium Michelins with good tread, and the battery charges fully. A minor electrical fault with the headlights was easily fixed by reconnecting a loose wire, earning the team points. However, the climate control system is blowing only cold air, and the motor, while functional, emits a concerningly loud whine, suggesting a potential issue with the motor itself or the reduction gearbox. The team highlights that the previous owner faced a lengthy and frustrating repair process with a main dealer, waiting over 10 months for a motor replacement, ultimately leading to the car being sold. The video emphasizes that repairability challenges are not unique to EVs, citing a similar experience with a BMW Mini. The primary challenge now is finding an independent garage willing and able to diagnose and fix the motor issue, which is estimated to cost £4-5,000 if a full motor replacement is needed. less

Solar Panels and a House Fire - Any Unique Issues If It Happens?

This video documents the devastating aftermath of a house fire experienced by Harry, with a specific focus on the implications for his rooftop solar p... moreanel system. The reviewer highlights the extreme heat generated by the fire, evidenced by melted household items, buckled radiators, and even blown-out glass. The fire service's primary concern with the solar panels was their potential to continue generating electricity and act as an ignition source, leading them to cover the panels with a liquid plastic sealant. The video also details the practical challenges faced by Harry, including the loss of identification and bank cards, the difficulty in finding pet-friendly accommodation, and the lengthy insurance and rebuilding process, estimated to take up to two years. While the solar panels themselves were not the cause of the fire, their integrated safety features (shutting down due to extreme temperatures) and the prompt response from the installer, Heatable, in removing them post-fire, are noted positively. The review underscores the importance of adequate home insurance, particularly for contents, and the emotional toll of losing irreplaceable items and memories. less

Polestar 3 - At This Price Level, I'm Not Sure

The Polestar 3 is reviewed as a large, premium electric SUV that aims to compete with established luxury brands like BMW and Audi. The reviewer praise... mores its exceptionally quiet ride, comfortable interior with recycled materials, and spacious rear seating. The car's design is noted as typically Polestar, which is seen as a positive. However, significant criticisms are leveled at the interior's perceived lack of differentiation from lower Polestar models (2 and 4), the extensive use of fingerprint-prone black gloss trim, and the confusing, often touch-based controls for essential functions like climate. The reviewer also highlights the high starting price (under £70k, rising to £80k+ with essential options) and the frustrating packaging of optional packs, which force buyers into expensive bundles for features expected as standard on a car at this price point. While acknowledging its performance and efficiency for its size, the reviewer questions its value proposition, suggesting the interior doesn't match the premium price tag and that competitors like the Genesis GV70 offer a more special and arguably better-value experience, despite the Polestar 3's superior range and brand image appeal for company car users. less

Abarth 600e - I Didn't Want To Like It!

The Abarth 600e aims to inject fun into the compact electric SUV segment, building upon the Fiat 600e platform. While the base Fiat 600 was found want... moreing in practicality, Abarth's performance-oriented approach, featuring 280hp, a mechanical limited-slip differential, and bespoke Michelin Pilot Sport EV tires, significantly enhances the driving experience. The reviewer praises the car's "bonkers" styling, unique color options, and the surprisingly engaging handling, noting it feels more serious and capable than its predecessor. However, the practicality remains a compromise, with tight rear seating and limited storage, making it unsuitable as a primary family car. Range is also a concern, with real-world figures estimated around 130 miles in winter and 200 in summer from its 50kWh battery. Despite these drawbacks, the Abarth 600e is considered good value for its price point (under £40,000), offering a special, fun-to-drive alternative for those prioritizing performance and distinctiveness over ultimate practicality and range. less

Home Battery Without Solar - Savings and Benefits

This video debunks the common misconception that home battery systems require solar PV, arguing that batteries alone can be financially more sensible ... moredue to predictable, year-round savings. The reviewer emphasizes the importance of time-of-day electricity tariffs, where charging a battery during off-peak hours (e.g., 7p/kWh) and using it during peak hours (e.g., 27.5p/kWh) can lead to significant daily and annual savings. For instance, a daily usage of 10 kWh could result in approximately £693.50 annual savings. The video also provides guidance on sizing a battery, suggesting that it's often unnecessary to cover 100% of daily usage, especially when load shifting appliances like dishwashers and washing machines to cheaper periods. A buffer of about a third more than the calculated need is recommended to account for degradation and unexpected usage. The reviewer highlights that while installation costs vary, prioritizing reputable installers who offer excellent customer service and aftercare can be worthwhile. The video also touches upon the benefits of battery backup during power outages and advises viewers to research specific tariffs and battery sizes based on their individual needs and future energy consumption plans, rather than oversizing systems unnecessarily. less

Abarth 500e - An EV With Soul & Huge Fun!

The Abarth 500e is presented as a fun, engaging electric hot hatch, challenging the notion that EVs lack soul. The reviewer highlights its aggressive ... morestyling, compact dimensions, and surprisingly spacious interior for its class, noting the premium feel of the Alcantara steering wheel and dashboard accents, despite some cheaper plastics. The seats are praised for their design and comfort. While the boot is adequate for a small car, the parcel shelf is a disappointment. The infotainment system is functional with Apple CarPlay, though it can be slow to load. The driving experience is the star, with strong acceleration, communicative steering, and a planted feel that allows for spirited driving without excessive speed. The aggressive one-pedal driving in 'Scorpion Track' mode is a highlight, though the inability to adjust regen in other modes is a minor drawback. The reviewer acknowledges the lack of engine noise but argues it's not missed in everyday driving. Real-world efficiency averaged 3.7 miles/kWh over 452 miles, with estimated ranges of 120 miles in winter and 180 miles in summer. The car is deemed an 'event car' for enjoyable 5% of driving, perfect as a second car for those prioritizing fun over practicality. Despite its relatively high price point and firm, sometimes crashy ride, the reviewer is so impressed they intend to buy one, calling it 'Abarth-esque' and a strong contender against rivals like the Mini Electric. less

MG Cyberster - The Flawed But Fun Attention Grabber!

The MG Cyberster is presented as a visually striking, fun, and attention-grabbing electric convertible, albeit with notable compromises. Its standout ... morefeatures include dramatic scissor doors and a distinctive design that garners significant public attention, often mistaken for more premium brands. However, the interior quality, particularly the vinyl materials and switchgear, doesn't quite match the exterior's flair or the car's price point (around £50,000-£60,000). Practicality is limited, with a small boot and restricted seating space for taller individuals. The infotainment system is described as somewhat clunky and dated. Driving dynamics are deemed average for its class, lacking the poise of more expensive rivals, though it offers a comfortable GT experience and brisk acceleration, especially in 'Super Sport' mode. Real-world range is estimated between 160-200 miles, with a year-round average of around 180 miles. Charging speed is also considered a drawback, topping out at 144 kW. Despite its flaws, the reviewer concludes that the Cyberster is a unique and enjoyable halo model that brings excitement to the EV market, recommending it for those seeking a special, fun, and distinctive vehicle, especially given its current price point and the lack of direct EV competitors in its niche. less

What I Wish I Knew Before Getting My Solar Panels!

The reviewer critically evaluates their decision to opt for an off-the-shelf solar panel system, contrasting it with a more tailored approach adopted ... moreby a neighbor. Over a year of data collection, the reviewer found that despite having a significantly larger array (31% bigger), their system generated less power than their neighbor's smaller, more customized setup. The core issue identified is the sub-optimal system design, particularly concerning inverter choice and panel matching, which led to poorer performance in lower light conditions prevalent in their region. While the off-the-shelf system was cheaper initially (£1,500 less), the reviewer concludes that the tailored system, despite its higher upfront cost, offers superior long-term value and efficiency, paying back the difference in just over four years. The video strongly advocates for a personalized system design over a one-size-fits-all solution, highlighting that factors beyond panel wattage, such as inverter capabilities and startup voltage, are crucial for maximizing generation, especially in less sunny climates. less

Polestar 4 - The First Proper Polestar!

The Polestar 4 is presented as a significant step forward for the brand, aiming to rectify the daily usability issues encountered with the Polestar 2.... more Reviewers praise its striking, 'Apple-esque' design and premium interior feel, with high-quality materials and a spacious cabin, particularly for rear passengers. The panoramic roof and quiet driving experience are highlighted as major positives, contributing to a luxurious, upmarket feel. However, the vehicle is not without its flaws. The reviewer criticizes the reliance on touchscreen controls for nearly all functions, including steering wheel adjustment, and the particularly frustrating haptic buttons. A significant annoyance is the unreliable speed limit recognition system, which frequently displays incorrect speeds, even flashing warnings in front of speed cameras. The lack of a rear window, replaced by a camera, is noted but deemed functional, though potentially less ideal for maneuvering. While the dual-motor AWD version offers strong performance (536 bhp, 3.8s 0-60), the reviewer suggests the rear-wheel-drive variant might suffice for most. Real-world efficiency is around 3.3-3.7 kWh/10 km on motorways, translating to an estimated range of 270-330 miles in winter/summer respectively for the dual-motor, and slightly more for the single-motor. Despite its premium feel and driving dynamics, the high price point (starting around £60,000) and a perceived lack of brand prestige compared to rivals like the Porsche Macan are noted. The short three-year warranty is also a concern for long-term value. less

The Truth About EVs After 10 Years Ownership

After a decade of EV ownership, the reviewer offers a pragmatic perspective on living with electric vehicles. The core message emphasizes that EVs are... more suitable for 'most people most of the time,' contingent on home charging capabilities. While long journeys are manageable and improving, they require a shift in mindset from traditional refueling habits, potentially adding 15-30 minutes to travel time. The reviewer highlights the significant convenience of home charging, which offsets any time lost on longer trips. Key advantages include preheating/pre-chilling the cabin remotely and the generally lower running costs compared to petrol equivalents, especially on the used market. Battery concerns are addressed by pointing to long warranties (8-10 years/100,000+ miles) and the longevity of original batteries even after high mileage. The reviewer debunks myths about battery degradation and repairability, stating that issues are rare and repair infrastructure will grow. While acknowledging a slight increase in insurance costs and the reality of reduced winter range (comparable to ICE vehicles), the overall verdict is overwhelmingly positive for those who can charge at home, suggesting a high owner retention rate. less

Cupra Tavascan EV - The SUV That Young You Can Live With!

The Cupra Tavascan is presented as a stylish and engaging alternative to more conventional electric SUVs, particularly the Volkswagen ID.4/ID.5. The r... moreeviewer highlights its aggressive styling, improved interior quality over its VW counterparts, and a surprisingly spacious boot. Key criticisms include the lack of a rear wiper, shallow rear windows contributing to a dark cabin, and the optional panoramic roof being too expensive and unavailable on the base V1 trim. The driving experience is described as competent but not truly sporty, with noted issues in throttle linearity and brake/regen transition leading to a jerky ride that could be a deal-breaker. While it offers practicality and a more exciting design, the reviewer suggests that for the price, competitors like the Tesla Model Y or Hyundai Ioniq 5 might offer a more compelling package, especially considering the Tavascan's charging speed and the V1's lack of desirable standard features like the panoramic roof. less

Polestar 2 - Have They Fixed What Was Wrong?

The Polestar 2 refresh addresses key criticisms, particularly concerning efficiency, which has seen significant improvement, now achieving comparable ... moremiles per kilowatt-hour to the Tesla Model 3. The reviewer highlights the car's enduring stylish design and solid build quality, noting the updated grille as a minor cosmetic change. However, significant drawbacks persist, including a firm ride, a large turning circle, and a cramped rear seating area that struggles with legroom and headroom, making it less ideal as a family car. The interior, while feeling premium, shows susceptibility to wear and tear, and the infotainment system's usability, especially for climate control, is criticized for its multi-tap operation. The key fob is deemed exceptionally poor for the car's price point. Despite these issues, the Polestar 2 is praised for its engaging driving dynamics, particularly the rear-wheel-drive setup in the Long Range model, and its unique, stylish appeal, positioning it as a 'fun' choice over more practical alternatives like the Tesla Model 3 or BMW i4, especially for single individuals or couples, or as a company car. less

Maserati Grecale EV - Is It Bonkers Enough?

The Maserati Grecale Folgore presents a compelling, albeit complex, proposition in the premium electric SUV market. While the interior is lauded for i... morets high-end materials, comfort, and sophisticated design, the exterior is criticized for being too subdued and lacking distinct Maserati or Italian flair, making it easily mistaken for other brands. Performance is strong, with instant torque and a comfortable ride, especially in GT mode, though its substantial weight impacts efficiency. The real-world range is a significant drawback, estimated at only 200-250 miles from its nearly 100 kWh battery, which is considered underwhelming for its size and price point. Charging speed is also limited by its 400-volt architecture, topping out at 150 kW. The reviewer suggests it excels as a daily driver for those who already own a sports car, offering a quiet, comfortable, and performance-oriented experience, but questions its unique appeal and value proposition against its petrol counterpart and rivals, particularly given the exterior design and range limitations. less

Top 10 Lease Deals For Electric Cars

This video explores the burgeoning world of electric car leasing, presenting a curated list of the top 10 lease deals available on Leasing.com. The pr... moreesenter emphasizes a 'deal-chasing' approach, prioritizing value and affordability over specific car models. Key takeaways include the importance of setting realistic mileage expectations (10,000 miles per year) and contract lengths (typically 24 months for best value). Standout deals highlighted include the GWM Ora Cat (£175/month), Tesla Model 3 (under £300/month), Volkswagen ID7 estate (under £300/month), Vauxhall Grandland (£230/month), Cupra Born (£235/month), Citroen EC4 X (£210/month), Ford Explorer EV (£270/month), BMW i7 (£508/month), Vauxhall Astra GS (£200/month), and Nissan Ariya (£235/month). The presenter stresses the dynamic nature of lease pricing, using the Ora Cat as an example of how deals can fluctuate dramatically, and advises viewers to start their search early and track prices to secure the best value. less

Coast To Coast & Back Again In A Big EV On One Charge

This video documents a challenging 210-mile round trip in a Genesis GV70, aiming to complete it on a single charge in sub-zero temperatures. The revie... morewer, an EV enthusiast, initially expresses skepticism about the difficulty, expecting to easily achieve the required 2.9 miles/kWh. Despite the cold weather impacting efficiency, the reviewer successfully completes the outbound journey to Whitley Bay averaging 3.4 miles/kWh and returning with 63% charge. The reviewer highlights the GV70's luxury features like heated and massage seats, and praises its comfort for long journeys. However, the car's inherent inefficiency as a large, heavy SUV is acknowledged. The reviewer also touches on the benefits of specific EV tires (Michelin Pilot Sport EV) for rolling resistance and grip. Ultimately, the challenge is presented as a fun exercise for brand recognition and content creation rather than a definitive test of EV capability, with the reviewer emphasizing the importance of driving style and tire pressure for efficiency. less

Kia EV6 - Who's Buying Them Now?

The Kia EV6 receives a midlife refresh, bringing a slightly larger battery and subtle cosmetic tweaks aimed at aligning it with Kia's newer EV de... moresigns like the EV9. While the car's distinctive styling remains a strong selling point, its position in the increasingly crowded EV market, particularly in the £40-50k bracket, is questioned. The reviewer highlights the improved interior materials, particularly the reduction of gloss black surfaces and the addition of solid buttons, noting a near-premium feel. Practicality is praised with ample rear passenger space, though the boot size is considered average for its class. The real-world range achieved on a 95% motorway test at 70 mph was 250 miles (3.4 miles/kWh), with an estimated 30-mile loss for AWD variants. The reviewer expresses confusion about the EV6's target audience given Kia's expanding EV lineup (EV3, EV5, EV9), suggesting it might become a legacy product. Despite its strengths, the EV6 faces stiff competition not only from other Kia models but also from rivals like the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Genesis GV60, and Renault Scenic. The rear-wheel-drive GT Line is recommended for its better range and sufficient performance, with the reviewer emphasizing that Kia's continued success stems from producing desirable, well-thought-out vehicles with excellent warranties. less

Why PHEVs Are Coming Back! The Driving Ohm Podcast Too!

This podcast episode delves into the resurgence of Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), arguing they represent a crucial bridge in the transition... more to full electrification. The hosts critique early PHEVs for their "worst of both worlds" approach, citing small batteries and inefficient petrol engines that offered poor economy. However, they contend that modern PHEVs, with significantly larger batteries offering 50-90 miles of electric range, are becoming increasingly viable. The primary barrier identified is the lack of widespread, affordable destination charging, making home charging the key differentiator. While acknowledging the environmental benefits of EVs, the hosts emphasize that convenience and financial incentives are paramount for mass adoption. They suggest that PHEVs offer a practical solution for those unable to charge at home or for individuals transitioning from internal combustion engine vehicles, addressing range anxiety and infrastructure gaps. The episode concludes that PHEVs, when properly implemented with sufficient electric range, are poised for a comeback due to their practicality and ability to cater to diverse user needs. less

How To Drive An Electric Car Efficiently

Let's Be Real About Heat Pumps!

Home Batteries Now Make A Lot Of Financial Sense!

MG ZS Full Electric SUV - Cheap, Or Great Value?

MG ZS Long Range EV - What's The Catch?

This Is The Best Home Battery + Solar PV System For Me!

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