Branden Flasch, formerly known as "EV Nomads," is a seasoned voice in the electric vehicle community. With extensive personal experience driving a range of EVs, including the Tesla Model Y, Ford F150 Lightning, Tesla Model S, VW ID.4, and more, Flasch brings a deep understanding of the electric driving landscape.
This distributor specializes in sharing insights on new EV models, the nuances of EV charging, and practical advice for electric vehicle travel. Leveraging years of hands-on experience and professional involvement in the EV charging industry, Branden Flasch offers a knowledgeable and engaging perspective for EV enthusiasts and those considering the transition to electric mobility.
This distributor specializes in sharing insights on new EV models, the nuances of EV charging, and practical advice for electric vehicle travel. Leveraging years of hands-on experience and professional involvement in the EV charging industry, Branden Flasch offers a knowledgeable and engaging perspective for EV enthusiasts and those considering the transition to electric mobility.
Farewell ID.4 - The Truth About The VW ID.4 After 1 Year and 16k Miles
After one year and 16,000 miles, the reviewer concludes that the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S RWD, while possessing good hardware and offering a comfortable ride suitable for long distances, is significantly let down by its software. Key criticisms include the lack of one-pedal driving, the absence...
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Better Than Tesla?! Answering Your VW ID.4 Road Trip Questions
The reviewer provides an in-depth look at road-tripping in the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4, comparing it extensively with their previous Tesla Model S. Key a... moredvantages highlighted include superior comfort, particularly with massaging seats, and faster charging times compared to their older Tesla. The ID.4's real-world range of over 200 miles is seen as a significant improvement. However, the reviewer notes that Tesla's Autopilot is more predictable than the ID.4's Travel Assist, and the Tesla app offers far superior remote monitoring and features. The lack of built-in route planning in the ID.4 is a major drawback for average consumers, hindering its potential to compete with Tesla's seamless user experience. Despite these shortcomings, the reviewer would road trip the ID.4 again, emphasizing its ease of use and comfort, but urges Volkswagen to implement essential software updates like route planning to truly appeal to the mass market. less
Wrapping Up 4400 Mile VW ID.4 Road Trip - Minneapolis to Charlotte
This video documents a 4400-mile road trip from Minneapolis to Charlotte in a Volkswagen ID.4. The reviewer highlights the vehicle's performance ... moreon long journeys, noting its efficiency despite cold weather, averaging 2.6 miles per kWh over the entire trip. Charging experiences with Electrify America were generally positive, with the free charging perk proving invaluable. The reviewer encountered minor issues like app activation delays and the need to switch chargers, but overall found the charging infrastructure sufficient. Stops included Chicago for the Starbucks Reserve Roastery and Allbirds stores, and Sierra Nevada Brewing. The ID.4 is praised for its comfortable ride and practicality for road trips, with the reviewer indicating they would make a more in-depth video about the EV's road trip capabilities. The primary takeaway is that the ID.4 is a capable and cost-effective road trip vehicle, especially when leveraging free charging. less
Charging App Requires Minimum Balance for Free Charge? Venturing Away From Electrify America
This video chronicles a road trip from Colorado to Minneapolis in a Volkswagen ID.4, focusing on the charging experience. The reviewer highlights a mi... morex of reliable Electrify America stops and more challenging encounters with other networks. While Electrify America stations in Ogallala, Lexington, and Lincoln, Nebraska, provided seamless charging experiences, the journey encountered issues with the Zeph Energy network in Albert Lea, Minnesota. The reviewer expressed significant frustration with Zeph Energy's requirement to add a $5 minimum balance to their app for a free charging session, deeming it unnecessary and inconvenient. The video also touches on hotel charging, opting for a paid Level 2 charger at the hotel in Lincoln due to cost-effectiveness compared to other hotels. Overall, the ID.4 performed reliably, but the charging infrastructure, particularly outside the major networks, presents a variable experience. less
Blasting Across The US in VW ID.4 - Charlotte to Denver
This video chronicles Branden and Kalie's ambitious 3-day road trip from Charlotte, NC to Denver, CO in their 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S RWD. The... more journey highlights the practicalities and occasional frustrations of long-distance EV travel, primarily relying on Electrify America's charging network. Key takeaways include the ID.4's generally reliable charging experience, despite a few initial hiccups with charger activation and one instance of a charger dropping speed. The vehicle's range projection and real-world efficiency were impacted by factors like traffic, speed, and headwinds, particularly across Kansas, where efficiency dropped to 1.8 miles per kWh. The hosts encountered unexpected traffic delays, a quirky seat memory issue, and the usual need for frequent stops. Despite these challenges, they successfully navigated the country, enjoying stops like Bass Pro Shops and a variety of food establishments. The video concludes with their arrival in Denver, having covered approximately 1500 miles, with the hosts expressing satisfaction with the ID.4's performance for such a trip, deeming it comparable to a Tesla experience in terms of charging ease. less
How To Wash Your Car to Prevent Swirls
This video provides a comprehensive guide to washing an electric vehicle, focusing on techniques to prevent paint swirls. The hosts, Branden and Kalie... more, demonstrate their meticulous process using a foam cannon, a two-bucket method with microfiber mitts, and a waterless wash spray for drying. They emphasize minimizing physical contact with the paint to preserve its condition. The review highlights the effectiveness of the EV Wash brand's products, particularly their waterless wash and interior cleaner, noting their eco-friendly packaging and pleasant scent. While the video covers both a Volkswagen ID.4 and a Mini Cooper SE, the core washing methodology remains consistent. The hosts also touch upon cleaning door jambs and wheels, and offer tips for interior detailing. The overall verdict is that this detailed approach, while time-consuming, yields excellent results in maintaining a car's finish, with a particular nod to the waterless wash's ability to aid in drying and provide a protective layer. less
Do We Still Like the VW ID.4 After 2 Months? - Long Term Test Update #2
After two months and approximately 1500 miles, Branden and Kalie find themselves largely satisfied with their 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S. The vehicle ... moreexcels in ride quality, comfort, and overall build, reflecting Volkswagen's long-standing automotive expertise. The comfortable seats, panoramic roof with a solid sunshade, and functional power liftgate are highlighted as significant positives. The reviewer also appreciates the ID.4's traditional car-like startup procedure and its handsome, understated styling, which avoids drawing unwanted attention. The integration of wireless Apple CarPlay is surprisingly effective, and the driver assistance suite, 'IQ.DRIVE,' is deemed competent for highway driving, with the capacitive steering wheel being a notable improvement over torque-sensing systems. A major draw is the three years of free, unlimited DC fast charging with Electrify America. However, the interior's extensive use of piano black trim is a significant drawback due to its susceptibility to scratches and fingerprints. The lack of a front trunk and the inclusion of a basic 120V charging cable are minor disappointments. More substantial criticisms are directed at the infotainment system's slow startup, the poorly implemented and unreliable 'CarNet' mobile app, and the absence of essential features like auto-hold and walk-away door locks. The most significant area for improvement is the navigation system, which lacks the robust route planning capabilities found in competitors like Tesla, making it less suitable for novice EV users embarking on long trips. Despite these shortcomings, the reviewers would repurchase the ID.4, valuing its driving dynamics and overall value proposition. less
Tesla Model X 100D Epic Cross Country Road Trip - Our Hectic Road Trip Pt 7
This video documents a significant cross-country road trip in a 2017 Tesla Model X 100D, covering the journey from Phoenix, Arizona, to Connecticut. T... morehe reviewer highlights the Model X's impressive handling, particularly on mountain roads, and praises its excellent visibility due to the large windshield. Charging performance is noted as a positive, with the car achieving solid speeds, especially on V3 Superchargers, and demonstrating quicker thermal recovery compared to a Model S. The reviewer also appreciates the spaciousness and comfort of the Model X, even opting to sit in the back seat. Minor drawbacks mentioned include the inconvenience of some Supercharger locations and the car's less efficient energy consumption compared to a Model S. Overall, the Model X 100D is presented as a capable and comfortable long-distance cruiser, though its thirst for energy is a consideration. less
2022 Mini Cooper SE Tour / Feature Walk Through With Kalie
This video provides a comprehensive walkthrough of the 2022 MINI Cooper SE, presented by an experienced MINI owner. The reviewer highlights the "... moreSignature Plus" trim, noting features like the sunroof and 17-inch "Tentacle Spoke" wheels. Key exterior design elements discussed include the refreshed bumper and the distinctive Union Jack tail lights. Interior features are thoroughly covered, with emphasis on the updated display, adaptive cruise control (a crucial feature for the reviewer), and the toggle switches. The reviewer appreciates the dual regenerative braking modes and the various driving modes (Sport, Mid, Green, Green+). Practical aspects like the "actual shift knob" and the controller for the infotainment screen (to avoid fingerprints) are also mentioned. The rear seats are deemed suitable only for small children, and the trunk offers limited but expandable storage. The reviewer confirms the car's intended use as an "around town" vehicle, citing a realistic range of approximately 100 miles from its 32.6 kWh battery and a 50 kW DC fast charging limit. Positives include the fun driving dynamics and the availability of features like a heated steering wheel and a good Harmon Kardon stereo. The reviewer finds the dual-zone climate control in such a small car somewhat unnecessary. Overall, the video effectively showcases the MINI Cooper SE's features and practical limitations for daily use. less
Kalie's Tesla Replacement: Cheapest New EV You Can Buy - 700+ Mile Road Trip in 2022 MINI Cooper SE!
The EV Nomads embark on an ambitious 700+ mile road trip from Florida to North Carolina in a newly acquired 2022 MINI Cooper SE. While the car is prai... moresed for its city driving capabilities, fun factor, and surprisingly decent charging speeds that hold 50kW longer than older Model S variants, its suitability for long-distance travel is questioned due to its limited 110-mile EPA range. The adaptive cruise control, a new feature for the 2022 refresh, is highlighted as a significant improvement, though it lacks lane-keeping assist and can drop out in rain. The road trip involved numerous Electrify America stops, with the team developing a routine for charging and managing the car's range. Despite the challenges, the reviewer found the MINI Cooper SE to be a compelling value, especially with potential incentives, making it an excellent city car and a surprisingly capable, albeit patient, road trip companion. less
VW ID.4 First Impressions From Former Tesla Owners - Long Term Test Update #1
This video provides a comprehensive first-drive impression of the Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S from the perspective of former Tesla owners. The reviewer high... morelights the ID.4's user-friendly interface, comfortable ride quality, and effective lane-centering assist, which surprisingly outperformed their Tesla on certain roads. Key positives include the intuitive Apple CarPlay integration, the spacious interior with a glass roof, and the availability of free Electrify America charging for three years. However, the reviewer notes the ID.4 is not a performance vehicle, lacking the quick acceleration and sharp handling of a Tesla. They also point out the unusual creep function at a stop and the less aggressive regenerative braking compared to a Tesla. The initial range estimate was significantly off due to the car's newness, a common characteristic of non-Tesla EVs. The video also includes a practical demonstration of using an EVgo DC fast charger, encountering a minor issue with the charge limit setting but ultimately achieving a decent charging speed. less
Tesla Autopilot Without Radar? Does Tesla Vision Work?
This video thoroughly investigates Tesla's Autopilot functionality on a 2021 Model Y equipped with Tesla Vision, notably lacking radar. The revie... morewer finds that while Autopilot performs competently in many scenarios, mirroring its radar-equipped predecessors, several key limitations are highlighted. The most significant drawback is the 75 mph speed restriction on Autosteer, which is deemed impractical and potentially hazardous in areas with higher speed limits, forcing drivers to either disengage Autopilot or impede traffic. The reviewer also notes instances of abrupt braking, particularly in traffic or when merging, which can be jarring. While the ride quality and road noise have improved compared to previous Model Ys, the suspension is still considered a bit rough. Despite these quirks, the reviewer concludes that Tesla Vision Autopilot is "ready for prime time-ish" and not a reason to avoid purchasing a new Model Y, though they suggest waiting if the 75 mph limit is a major concern or if living in an 80 mph speed limit area. Overall, it's a "buy or wait" recommendation, depending on individual circumstances. less
DFW to Phoenix Along Route 66 - Tesla Road Trip
This video documents a multi-day road trip from Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas, to Tempe, Arizona, following parts of Route 66. The hosts, Kalie and Branden... more, emphasize a relaxed approach to EV road-tripping, highlighting that even a Tesla Model 3 Standard Range, with its reduced range and charging speed compared to newer models, is perfectly capable of such a journey. They detail their charging stops, including Superchargers in Henrietta, Childress, Amarillo, Tucumcari, Santa Rosa, and Albuquerque, as well as destination chargers and an Electrify America station in Winslow. The review touches on the usability of the in-car navigation versus third-party apps like A Better Routeplanner, the challenges of finding convenient charging and lodging, and the occasional unexpected detours like getting locked in a courtyard. Key attractions visited include Cadillac Ranch and the Petrified Forest National Park. The hosts express satisfaction with the vehicle's performance for this type of travel, despite acknowledging the limitations of their older model, and offer practical tips on charging etiquette and planning. less
Tesla Model S Road Trip: Georgia to Texas (with All Data!)
The EV Nomad embarks on an extensive road trip from Georgia to Texas in a Tesla Model S 70D with over 180,000 miles. The video meticulously documents ... morethe entire journey, including all charging stops and energy consumption data. Despite the car's older technology, resulting in reduced range and slower charging compared to current models, the reviewer emphasizes that such trips are feasible even for owners of newer, less range-capable Teslas like the Model 3 Standard Range. Key takeaways include the necessity of longer charging stops, particularly in Birmingham, Alabama, and the reviewer's preference for more efficient charging strategies to minimize downtime. The journey highlights the practicalities and challenges of long-distance EV travel, showcasing the car's reliability and the evolving charging infrastructure. less
Tesla Model S Road Trip: Maine to Georgia
This video documents a road trip from Maine to Georgia in a Tesla Model S 70D. The reviewer emphasizes that despite the car's older technology an... mored reduced range compared to current models, such a trip is entirely feasible, even for those with a Standard Range Model 3. The journey highlights numerous Supercharger stops across New England and the Southern states, with the reviewer often opting for stops with amenities like Starbucks or Wawa. While the reviewer doesn't explicitly detail major vehicle faults, the narrative focuses on the practicalities of long-distance EV travel, including managing charging times, navigating the car's route planner, and encountering fellow EV enthusiasts. The overall tone suggests a positive experience, reinforcing the idea that Tesla road trips are accessible and manageable. less
Tesla Day Trip - Off Roading in Northern Maine
The reviewer embarks on an ambitious day trip through Northern Maine, showcasing the Tesla Model S's capability beyond typical urban driving, inc... moreluding nearly 70 miles on dirt roads. Despite encountering rough terrain and a somewhat neglected Medway Supercharger, the vehicle performed admirably, with the mud flaps proving effective in reducing spray. The journey included stops at Jackman and Skowhegan, highlighting the car's range and charging adaptability even in rural settings. The reviewer emphasizes that such trips are feasible even with older or standard range Teslas, encouraging viewers to "drive more, worry less." The video successfully demonstrates the versatility of electric vehicles for adventurous road trips, even if the specific trim and drivetrain were not detailed. less
Can I Charge at 40+ Tesla Superchargers In a Single Day? - VA to Maine Tesla Road Trip
This video documents an ambitious attempt to set a record for visiting the most unique Tesla Supercharger locations in a single day, spanning from Vir... moreginia to Maine. The reviewer, driving a Tesla Model 3 Standard Range, highlights the logistical challenges and the sheer volume of charging stops required. While the primary goal was to break the record, the journey also served as a testament to the feasibility of long-distance EV travel even with older, less range-capable models. The reviewer notes the variety of Supercharger locations, from urban parking garages to highway rest stops, and occasionally encounters minor inconveniences like closed facilities or tight parking. The video emphasizes the 'drive more, worry less' philosophy, encouraging viewers to embrace EV road trips. Ultimately, the reviewer successfully visited a significant number of chargers, though the specific record-breaking outcome isn't definitively stated, the spirit of the challenge and the extensive travel are the main takeaways. less
Exploring Great Lakes Fall Colors on The Way to NC - Tesla Road Trip (w/All Data)
This video documents an extensive road trip across the Great Lakes region and into North Carolina, highlighting the challenges and rewards of long-dis... moretance EV travel. The reviewer, Branden Flasch, emphasizes that even with an older, lower-range Tesla Model 3 Standard Range, such a journey is feasible, debunking excuses for not undertaking similar trips. Key issues encountered include malfunctioning Supercharger stalls in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, and a flat tire requiring repair. The reviewer also notes the convenience of destination chargers at hotels and the importance of using apps like PlugShare and HotelTonight for planning. While the trip showcases beautiful scenery, particularly in Michigan's Upper Peninsula and along Torch Lake, it also involves navigating less-than-ideal charging situations and unexpected detours. The overall tone is encouraging, aiming to inspire viewers to embrace EV road trips. less
Packing My Life in My Tesla and Hitting The Road Across the Country (w/ All Data!)
This video documents a cross-country road trip from Arizona to Minnesota in a Tesla Model 3, emphasizing its feasibility even with an older, lower-ran... morege model. The reviewer, Branden Flasch, provides detailed charging data and practical insights, such as managing charging with a hitch carrier and adjusting tire pressure for efficiency. While the journey highlights the car's capability for long-distance travel, it also implicitly points out the limitations of older Teslas, particularly regarding charging speeds and range compared to newer models. The reviewer's approach is pragmatic, focusing on real-world application and encouraging viewers to undertake similar trips. The narrative is driven by the practicalities of the journey rather than a critical review of the vehicle's features, serving as a testament to the EV Nomad lifestyle. less
Moving My Sister Across the Country in My 170k+ Mile Tesla Model S
This video chronicles a cross-country road trip from Minnesota to Los Angeles in a 2015 Tesla Model S 70D, highlighting the practicalities of long-dis... moretance EV travel. The reviewer emphasizes that despite the car's age, lower range, and slower charging compared to newer models, such a journey is entirely feasible, encouraging viewers not to make excuses. The narrative focuses on the experience of moving a sister, with interspersed commentary on charging stops, the scenery, and the camaraderie of the caravan. While the video doesn't delve into deep technical analysis or critical reviews of the car's performance in extreme conditions, it successfully demonstrates the viability of road-tripping in an older EV, showcasing the flexibility and unique aspects of the charging infrastructure and the journey itself. The reviewer's primary takeaway is 'Drive more, worry less,' promoting the accessibility of EV road trips. less
2200 Miles in 58 Hours - Beautiful Scenery! - Tesla Road Trip w/ All Data!
This video chronicles an extensive 2,200-mile road trip from Arizona to Minnesota in a 170,000-mile Tesla Model S 70D. The reviewer, Brandon Flasch, p... morerovides a detailed, data-rich account of the journey, highlighting the car's performance and charging experiences across various states, including scenic routes through Utah, Montana, and Yellowstone. Despite the car's older technology and reduced range compared to newer Teslas, Flasch demonstrates that such a trip is feasible with careful planning. The review touches upon the reliability of V2 and V3 Superchargers, the beauty of the American landscape, and the practicalities of long-distance EV travel. While the reviewer encountered minor issues like tire pressure warnings and some charging stall inconsistencies, the overall sentiment is positive, emphasizing the capability of older EVs for ambitious road trips. The video also offers insights into the reviewer's upcoming full-time van life with his Tesla and his move to Minnesota. less
Lucid Motors 9.9.20 Announcement - Thoughts and Impact
The EV Nomad provides an in-depth analysis of Lucid Motors' September 9th announcement, focusing on the Lucid Air and a tease of the "Projec... moret Gravity" SUV. The reviewer highlights Lucid's emphasis on being a tech company with vertical integration, developing their own battery tech and components like the "vunderbox." Key takeaways include the focus on cascading technology to reduce costs and the goal of "sustainable tech for everyone." While appreciating the luxury focus and innovative features like the expansive taillight and advanced driver-assistance system (Dream Drive), the reviewer expresses disappointment that the Air is not a hatchback, citing practicality concerns. The high price point of the Dream Edition ($169,000) is noted, but the upcoming sub-$80,000 version is seen as a competitor to Tesla in the sub-$100k market. The reviewer is optimistic about Lucid's over 500-mile range claims and 300kW charging but expresses significant concern over Lucid's reliance on the currently unreliable Electrify America charging network. Performance figures are impressive, with over 1000 horsepower and a 9.9-second quarter-mile time, though the reviewer suggests the launch might need refinement compared to Tesla. The announcement of Project Gravity was deemed anticlimactic. A major positive takeaway is CEO Peter Rawlinson's commitment to quality over rushed production, contrasting with other EV startups. The decision to remain private is seen as a strategic advantage for focusing on product excellence. less
I Ran My Tesla Dead on the Kilowatt Rally Tesla Road Trip w/ All Data!
The EV Nomad embarks on a road trip from Phoenix to the Kilowatt Rally in Southern California, documenting his journey in a high-mileage Tesla Model S... more. The video provides extensive detail on Supercharger stops, including charging speeds, station types (V2, V3, urban, pallet), and infrastructure observations, particularly highlighting the new V3 setup in Quartzite, Arizona. The reviewer experiences a critical moment when he runs out of charge near Lake Arrowhead, requiring a tow, which he attributes to his own fault. Despite this setback, the narrative continues with the return journey, offering insights into charging strategies and real-world range considerations. The video is rich in practical EV travel data but lacks specific details on the Model S trim or drivetrain, and the rally itself serves more as a backdrop than a central focus. less
I Had The First Polestar 2 Public Test Drive
The reviewer, an EV enthusiast and Tesla owner, had the opportunity to be among the first to test drive the Polestar 2 Performance Pack in Santa Monic... morea. The Polestar 2 is presented as a premium alternative to Tesla, emphasizing build quality, Volvo's backing, and a more refined luxury experience. The reviewer highlights the intuitive and customizable Google-based infotainment system, noting its ease of use while driving. Performance is described as immediate and impressive, with strong acceleration, though the reviewer notes the pedal mapping is designed to feel familiar to traditional car owners rather than overly aggressive. The ride quality is praised for being compliant yet firm, comparable to a BMW M series, with adjustable Öhlins dampers. Positives include the quiet cabin, advanced tech features, and the efficient one-pedal driving with aggressive regenerative braking. Areas for improvement or further exploration include the unusual turn signal sound, the integration of charging station navigation, and the service model, which is entirely app-based and involves car pickup. The reviewer expresses excitement for the Polestar 2 as a compelling, non-Tesla electric vehicle option. less
High Mileage Tesla Model S Road Trip (w/ All Data!) to Tesla Corsa 9 - Part 1
This video documents a high-mileage road trip in a Tesla Model S 70D from Arizona to California for an event. The reviewer provides a detailed, real-t... moreime account of charging stops, including specific Supercharger locations, charging speeds, and ambient temperatures. Key observations include the performance of older V2 Superchargers versus newer V3 installations, the impact of high temperatures on charging, and the general condition of various charging stations, with some noted as needing maintenance. The reviewer also touches on practical aspects like using the Tesla mobile app for ordering food and navigating through California's agricultural checkpoints. While the focus is on the journey and charging infrastructure, the video offers a practical look at long-distance EV travel in a well-used vehicle. less