Everything Electric CARS

How Norway Killed the Petrol Car

This "Fully Charged" episode explores Norway's remarkable success in transitioning to electric vehicles, achieving over 80% new car sal... morees as pure EVs. The presenter highlights the crucial role of government incentives, starting from the 1990s with tax exemptions and free tolls, which made EVs the financially obvious choice. The video showcases Norway's proactive approach to charging infrastructure, including dedicated EV parking garages with chargers and policies ensuring the "right to charge" in apartment buildings. It also touches upon the broader shift towards electrification in transport and construction, and the challenges that remain, primarily ensuring sufficient fast-charging availability for longer journeys. The narrative emphasizes that strong, consistent government policy, rather than just technological advancement or consumer demand alone, is the key driver for mass EV adoption. less

World's First Solar Powered Campervan!

The Fully Charged Show presents Stella Vita, a groundbreaking solar-powered campervan developed by engineering students from Eindhoven University of T... moreechnology. The vehicle successfully completed a 3,000 km journey from the Netherlands to Tarifa, Spain, demonstrating its self-sustaining capabilities. While the engineers emphasize efficiency and lightweight design, achieving up to 600 km range on a full charge, the campervan did require charging twice during the trip due to suboptimal weather and initial testing in Paris. The design prioritizes aerodynamics and incorporates expandable solar panels, allowing for significant energy generation even while stationary. The interior is surprisingly spacious and well-equipped, featuring a double bed, kitchen, and living area. Although experimental, the Stella Vita is road-legal and offers a comfortable driving experience, with innovative features like camera-based mirrors and a sliding screen for entertainment or energy monitoring. The reviewer highlights the vehicle's potential for off-grid living but notes its likely high cost, making it currently inaccessible for purchase. less

Dutch Tesla Trial, Bmw Joins Toyota - An Outside Broadcast From Fully Charged Live

This episode of the Fully Charged Show features an 'Almost Breaking News' segment broadcast live from Fully Charged LIVE. Hosts Robert Llewe... morellyn and Roger Atkins discuss several key industry stories, including the expansion of Tesla's Supercharger network to non-Tesla EVs in the Netherlands, the significant growth of offshore wind farms like Hornsea 2, and Renault's potential separation of its EV business. They also touch upon BMW's continued investment in internal combustion engines, contrasting it with other manufacturers' shift to EVs, and the ambitious X-links project to bring solar power from Morocco to the UK. The review highlights the hosts' optimistic outlook on renewable energy and electric mobility, despite global challenges, and emphasizes the growing economic imperative for sustainable solutions. The segment also includes a brief mention of Lucid Motors' large order from Saudi Arabia. less

This Is the Electric Defender Land Rover Should Have Built

This video showcases two remarkable EV-converted Land Rover Defenders, built by 'Electric Classic Cars', offering a compelling glimpse into ... morewhat Land Rover's iconic off-roader could be. The hosts highlight the significant power upgrade, with one vehicle boasting 450 horsepower (though turned down for drivability) and the other a more potent setup. The conversion retains the Defender's legendary off-road capability while eliminating the drawbacks of internal combustion engines, such as noise, heat, and clunky gear changes. The electric powertrains provide immense torque and silent operation, enhancing the off-roading experience. While the range is noted as approximately 150 miles from a 100kWh battery, which is half that of a Tesla Model X, the silent, powerful, and efficient off-road performance is the clear standout. The review praises the seamless integration of Tesla powertrains, the improved driving dynamics, and the overall enhancement of the classic Defender experience, suggesting these conversions are the future Land Rover should embrace. less

Green Hydrogen: The Solution for Dirty Diggers?!

This video explores JCB's investigation into hydrogen combustion and fuel cell technologies as potential solutions for cleaning up heavy machiner... morey, specifically the iconic backhoe loader. The hosts, Robert and Helen, visit the factory to understand the technology and its practical application. Key areas of discussion include the efficiency of hydrogen power compared to traditional diesel, the challenges of refueling, and the broader infrastructure required for widespread adoption. While the video highlights JCB's commitment to exploring alternative fuels for 'dirty diggers,' it raises questions about the true sustainability and workability of hydrogen combustion in this sector. The review suggests that while hydrogen offers a path away from fossil fuels, its efficiency and infrastructure hurdles need significant resolution before it can be considered a definitive solution. less

The Game-Changing Technologies Coming To Your Electric Car

This episode of Fully Charged explores two potentially game-changing EV technologies: wireless charging and battery swapping. Jack investigates wirele... moress charging in Oslo, highlighting its seamless integration into taxis and buses, emphasizing its efficiency for vehicles operating on predictable routes. The technology demonstrated remarkable performance, even through a thick block of ice, and its potential to reduce battery size, cost, and environmental impact is significant. Molly, in Drammen, experiences Nio's battery swapping stations, showcasing the impressive speed of swapping a battery in under five minutes. While acknowledging the convenience and the option to lease batteries, she notes the current limitation of exclusivity to Nio vehicles. The review concludes that while battery swapping might be more suited for long-distance travel, wireless charging is presented as the ideal solution for public transport and predictable urban loops. Ultimately, the video posits that the future of EVs will likely involve multiple innovative solutions rather than a single perfect technology. less

Rivian R1T In-Depth Review: The Swiss Army Knife of Trucks!

Ricky Roy's debut on Fully Charged presents an in-depth look at the Rivian R1T, highlighting its versatility as an "adventure truck." T... morehe reviewer praises its off-road capability, easily tackling challenging terrain thanks to its four-motor drive and adjustable air suspension. The R1T's unique features, such as the carabiner key, wrist strap key, and the extensive storage options including the gear tunnel and frunk, are noted as significant advantages. Interior comfort and space are deemed excellent for both front and rear passengers, with a premium feel attributed to the vegan leather upholstery. While the front-end styling is a minor point of contention for the reviewer, the overall design is lauded for its presence. The infotainment system is described as responsive and similar to Tesla's, though lacking Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Real-world range is reported at approximately 2.5 miles per kWh, achieving the stated 300 miles on a mixed 100-mile drive, which is considered good despite the vehicle's weight and less-than-ideal aerodynamics. The reviewer concludes that the R1T is a uniquely special package, well worth the wait for those prioritizing adventure, camping, and a capable electric truck, despite its high price point. less

Germany Gigafactory Opens + Massive Methane Leak

This episode of 'Almost Breaking News' covers several significant developments in the EV and clean energy space. The opening of Tesla's... more Berlin Gigafactory is highlighted as a major step towards their ambitious production goals, with the Model 3 now being ubiquitous in the UK. The show also features an innovative electric cruise ship in China, showcasing advancements in maritime electrification. A notable segment discusses an Australian bid to acquire and shut down a coal-burning power plant, contrasting government inaction with private sector innovation, including plans for a massive solar farm and sub-sea cable project to export electricity to Singapore. The environmental impact of methane leaks from oil and gas operations is critically examined, with researchers estimating a significant climate effect comparable to millions of combustion vehicles. On a more localized note, Uber's investment in 700 EV chargers in London is presented as a positive step towards electrifying ride-sharing fleets. Finally, the report touches upon advancements in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) and Aston Martin's commitment to electrification, with plans for a fully electric lineup by 2030. The overall tone is informative, with a clear leaning towards promoting EV adoption and renewable energy solutions. less

Camping In The Boot Of A Tesla Model Y

The Tesla Model Y is put to the ultimate test as the host attempts to camp in its boot for 24 hours. While the car offers impressive space, particular... morely headroom and boot capacity, a 6'5" individual finds fitting lengthways a challenge, requiring a creative workaround. The reviewer highlights Tesla's continued strength in its user-friendly infotainment system and the seamless integration of navigation with Supercharger stops. However, persistent issues with build quality, including panel gaps and poorly fitted trim, are noted as significant drawbacks, especially given the car's premium price point. The Long Range variant is deemed sufficiently quick, negating the need for the Performance model, and its expansive glasshouse offers excellent visibility. Despite the competition catching up, the Model Y's core strengths—efficient hardware, reliable and fast charging via the Supercharger network, and a sense of cutting-edge technology—remain compelling reasons to purchase, though testing rivals like the Ioniq 5 is strongly advised. less

The Lotus Eletre Is The Maddest Car You'll See All Year

The Lotus Eletre marks a significant departure for the brand, embracing the electric SUV segment with a "SPAV" (Sports Performance Utility V... moreehicle) designation. The reviewer highlights Lotus's commitment to its heritage of lightness and handling, even in a large SUV, evident in its "porosity" design philosophy for aerodynamics and extensive use of lightweight materials like carbon fiber and aluminum. Key features include a striking exterior with active aero, deployable lidar sensors, and a unique interior emphasizing sustainable materials and a driver-focused cockpit with a rotating central touchscreen. While specific performance figures are impressive (starting at 600 hp, 0-60 in under 3 seconds), the reviewer notes the estimated WLTP range of 350 miles might be optimistic. The Eletre is positioned as a revolutionary step for Lotus under Geely's ownership, aiming to secure the brand's future by focusing on lifestyle EVs, with the Eletre being the first of three planned models. Despite the inherent contradiction of a heavy SUV embodying Lotus's lightweight ethos, the reviewer expresses optimism that this vehicle could help define the future of EV driving dynamics. less

Nissan Ariya: It Was Worth The Wait

The Nissan Ariya prototype shows significant promise, addressing the long wait with a blend of thoughtful design and practical EV engineering. The rev... moreiewer highlights the intuitive cabin, featuring a well-executed dual-screen setup and innovative haptic buttons, contrasting it favorably with some competitors. The exterior design is praised for its simplicity and clean lines, though the "Akatsuki Copper" color is noted as polarizing. Interior space is ample, benefiting from the bespoke EV platform, although headroom for taller individuals is a minor concern. The reviewer was particularly impressed by the pressure sensors in the steering wheel for the driver assistance system, a notable improvement over torque-based systems. However, the driving dynamics were deemed average for a two-ton SUV, lacking sporty feel, and the ride comfort on the pre-production model needs refinement. Charging speed, while not class-leading in peak kW, is expected to be competitive due to its sustained charging curve. Overall, the Ariya is positioned as a competent, spacious, and well-equipped family SUV that stands out through its platform, user-friendly interior, and distinctive styling, making the choice in the premium electric SUV segment even more challenging. less

This Cheap Conversion Kit Can Turn Any Car Electric!

This episode investigates Transition One, a French company offering an entry-level EV conversion kit for existing cars, primarily targeting older mode... morels like the Fiat 500. The core appeal lies in its affordability, with a projected cost of €5,000 after subsidies, aiming to make EVs accessible to a wider audience. The conversion process is designed to be simple, replacing the combustion powertrain with an electric motor and battery while retaining the original gearbox and minimal other components to streamline regulatory approval. The reviewer highlights the car's basic functionality, with a target range of 100 km (approx. 60 miles) suitable for daily urban use, and a 15 kWh battery. A key differentiator is the plan to supply kits to local garages for installation, aiming for a 4-hour conversion time. The company has received over 10,000 requests, indicating strong market interest. While still in pre-production, the concept promises a more sustainable approach by repurposing existing vehicles, aligning with a philosophy of sufficiency and circular economy. less

Electric Rubbish Trucks Are Getting a Luxury Makeover!

The Fully Charged Show visits Lunaz, a company renowned for electrifying luxury classic cars, to explore their expansion into converting diesel refuse... more trucks to electric power. The review highlights Lunaz's dual approach: maintaining the heritage of classic vehicles while applying similar restoration and upgrade techniques to commercial trucks. A key focus is the economic and environmental benefit of these conversions, offering a solution that is priced comparably to new diesel trucks but with significant savings in operational costs (estimated at £11,000 per year) and a drastic reduction in embedded carbon. The interior refurbishment for the truck drivers, including a more comfortable middle seat and upgraded infotainment, is praised as 'sustainability without penalty.' The video showcases the impressive speed of conversion, aiming for just 11 days per truck, and the significant environmental impact, saving the equivalent of eight Eiffel Towers of embedded carbon annually with their planned scale of operations. The verdict is overwhelmingly positive, presenting the electric refuse truck conversion as a practical, cost-effective, and environmentally responsible solution for local authorities. less

Nio ET7: China's Best Ever EV!

The Nio ET7 is presented as a serious challenger to established German luxury automakers, with the reviewer suggesting it could spell the end for thei... morer dominance in the luxury EV segment. The car boasts impressive performance, achieving 0-60 mph in 3.8 seconds and a 100-0 kph braking distance of 33.5 meters. Its aerodynamic design, with a drag coefficient of 0.208, contributes to efficiency, especially when paired with the optional 150 kWh battery offering up to 1000 km of range. The interior is described as 'restrained opulence,' featuring a Mini LED screen, a responsive AMOLED display, and sustainable materials like Karoon. While the boot space is noted as a weak point (364 liters), passenger space, particularly in the rear, is exceptional, offering a luxurious and relaxing experience with features like ventilated, heated, and massaging seats. The reviewer highlights the car's ability to switch between a sporty 'Sports+' mode and a comfortable 'Comfort' or 'Eco' mode, emphasizing its refinement and quietness due to laminated glass and minimal road noise. Despite minor concerns about the glass roof and the limited use of sustainable materials, the overall verdict is overwhelmingly positive, positioning the ET7 as an outstanding and compelling proposition for the European market. less

This Polestar 2 Is Built For Arctic Adventures!

This video showcases the one-off Polestar 2 Arctic Circle, a bespoke creation built for extreme winter testing. The reviewer, Jack, highlights the car... more's enhanced performance, including a power increase to 350 kW and 501 lb-ft of torque, bespoke Öhlins suspension that is 30mm higher and 30% softer than the standard Performance model, and studded 19-inch OZ rally wheels. Significant modifications include monster LED lights, a carbon fiber skid plate, front and rear strut braces, and custom Recaro bucket seats with gold accents. The reviewer praises the car's exceptional handling and fun factor on an ice lake, noting how the tuned torque distribution and direct electric power delivery make it easier to control during slides compared to combustion engine cars. While acknowledging the extreme nature of the testing, the video effectively argues that this rigorous development in -30°C conditions ensures reliability and refinement for everyday driving in milder climates. The reviewer's verdict is overwhelmingly positive, calling it the "best thing I've ever driven" and emphasizing the confidence it instills for even challenging road conditions. less

Renault Megane E-Tech: A Quietly Brilliant, Very French EV

Robert from Fully Charged delivers a highly positive review of the Renault Megane E-Tech, praising its quiet and pleasant driving dynamics, particular... morely highlighting the effective adjustable regenerative braking. He commends Renault's commitment to an all-electric future for the model and their extensive EV experience, evidenced by the Zoe's success. The reviewer is impressed by the car's lightweight construction, efficient thermal management system, and intuitive, smartphone-like infotainment system. Design elements, including the portrait screen and subtle interior lighting that adapts to the time of day, are appreciated. While acknowledging minor quirks like the flush door handles, Robert finds the overall package to be a significant step forward for Renault, placing it on par with competitors like the VW ID.3 and ID.4. He strongly recommends adding it to the consideration list for potential EV buyers. less

Tesla, Nissan, Nuclear, and 'We're Going to Need a Bigger Boat!'

This 'Almost Breaking News' episode from Fully Charged covers a diverse range of topics, from advancements in renewable energy to significan... moret developments in the automotive sector. The host, Robert Lewellen, highlights the increasing scale of offshore wind turbines, noting the technological leaps from 8MW to 16.6MW capacities. He also touches upon the critical shortage of specialized vessels for installing these massive structures, particularly in light of the US Jones Act. A significant portion is dedicated to debunking the fossil fuel lobby's narrative by presenting stark examples of oil extraction and transportation disasters, contrasting them with the comparatively lower environmental impact of EV manufacturing. The episode revisits Faraday Future's potential comeback and a reported breakthrough in nuclear fusion research. On the automotive front, Nissan's strategic shift away from combustion engines in Europe is discussed, alongside Tesla's continued workforce expansion, reaching 100,000 employees. The review concludes with a thought-provoking geopolitical analysis of the energy transition, emphasizing the challenges posed by petro-states. While the episode is rich in information, its rapid-fire delivery across multiple subjects might leave some viewers wanting deeper dives into specific areas. less

One Spin of This Giant Wind Turbine Powers a Home for Two Days!!

This episode of Fully Charged takes viewers to the port of Rotterdam to explore the GE Haliade-X, a colossal 14MW offshore wind turbine. The presenter... more emphasizes the sheer scale of the turbine, noting its 260-meter height and 220-meter rotor diameter, comparing it to landmarks like Big Ben and the Eiffel Tower. The video highlights the engineering marvel of the Haliade-X, explaining how its massive swept area captures kinetic energy from the wind to generate electricity, with sophisticated control systems managing direction and blade pitch. A key takeaway is the turbine's immense power generation capability: a single rotation can power a home for two days, and the entire turbine can power tens of thousands of homes annually. The episode also discusses the future of offshore wind, particularly the ambitious Dogger Bank project, and the challenges of scaling up, including development, permitting, manufacturing, and seabed limitations. The presenter expresses optimism about the solvability of the energy challenge through such technological advancements, seeing offshore wind as a crucial component in moving away from fossil fuels. less

Genesis GV60: Watch This Before Buying An Ioniq 5!

The Genesis GV60 is presented as a compelling contender in the premium EV market, aiming to challenge established German brands. Built on the same bes... morepoke E-GMP platform as the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6, it promises similar strengths in range, charging, and interior space, but with a distinctly more luxurious execution. The reviewer highlights the GV60's sporty and aggressive design, particularly noting the 21-inch wheels and distinctive two-stripe lighting. Inside, the cabin is praised for its premium materials, thoughtful physical controls, and unique features like the rotating gear selector and passenger seat controls. The performance variant, with its 320kW output and a surprising drift mode, is a key talking point, offering rapid acceleration. While the reviewer is impressed, the main question remains whether the GV60's elevated quality and features justify a potentially higher price point compared to its siblings, the Ioniq 5 and EV6, which have already set a high bar. less

Meet China's Answer to the Tesla Semi! Farizon Auto Homtruck

The Farizon Auto Homtruck represents a significant leap forward in electric semi-truck design, aiming to revolutionize long-distance hauling. The revi... moreewer highlights its striking, futuristic 'Blade Runner' aesthetic and surprisingly luxurious interior, which prioritizes driver comfort and well-being with features like a full shower unit, toilet, a functional hob, sink, and even a washing machine. While the specific battery range and performance figures for the EV concept are not fully detailed, the potential for battery swapping, inspired by Geely's existing technology, offers a promising solution for range anxiety. The reviewer notes the quiet and smooth driving experience, a stark contrast to traditional diesel HGVs. Key challenges addressed include the demanding nature of truck driving (long hours, high mileage) and the environmental impact of diesel trucks, areas where the Homtruck aims to provide a zero-emission alternative. The overall verdict is positive, with the Homtruck seen as a potential game-changer for the logistics industry, provided it can transition successfully from concept to production by 2024-2025. less

An Idiot's Guide to Hybrids: Why You're Better Off Going Electric!

This episode of Fully Charged tackles the often-confusing world of hybrid vehicles, aiming to clarify the distinctions between Mild Hybrids (MHEV), Fu... morell Hybrids (often marketed as 'self-charging'), and Plug-in Hybrids (PHEV). The hosts argue that while hybrids historically played a crucial role in transitioning consumers away from internal combustion engines (ICE), they are now largely outdated technology. They highlight that PHEVs, despite offering some electric-only range, are often a "worst of both worlds" compromise, burdened by the complexity and cost of both an engine and a battery, with slow charging times and the continued need for petrol. The review emphasizes that pure Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) are significantly cheaper to operate, less complex, and more efficient, with a much higher percentage of energy used for propulsion. While acknowledging that hybrids might offer peace of mind for some hesitant buyers, the consensus is that BEVs are the superior choice, even if charging infrastructure is a concern. The episode also touches upon dealerships potentially misinforming customers and the vague marketing term 'electrified'. less

Why the BMW i4 Will Convert Petrolheads to Electric

The reviewer expresses deep affection for the BMW i4, calling it "one of the finest electric driver’s cars" and "possibly the best all-... moreround EV on sale today." He highlights BMW's mastery in producing sporty, four-door executive saloons, arguing the i4 is a more significant release than the flagship iX. The interior is praised for its intuitive design, physical buttons, and responsive infotainment system, rivaling the best in the industry. While acknowledging its shared platform with petrol cars, the reviewer finds the driving dynamics exceptional, particularly praising the balanced chassis, well-weighted controls, and a "usable but satisfying amount of power" in the eDrive40 model. He strongly recommends the eDrive40 over the more expensive M50, citing better ride comfort and more usable power delivery. Real-world range is estimated to be "just shy of 300" miles in cold weather from the 80.7 kWh battery. Criticisms include the lack of a rear windscreen wiper and the absence of a frunk. Ultimately, the i4 is lauded for retaining BMW's core driving DNA in an electric package, offering a superior experience to the Tesla Model 3 and Polestar 2 in terms of material quality, fit, finish, and driving dynamics, despite a higher price point. less

Return of the Cheap EV, Nissan's New Micra & More Almost Breaking News

This episode of 'Almost Breaking News' covers several key EV developments. The most significant announcement is Nissan's plan to launch... more a compact EV, similar in size to the Micra, to be built in Europe. While details on cost, name, battery, and range are scarce, the reviewer expresses excitement about a new, non-SUV model from a major manufacturer. The segment also critically examines Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) for hydrogen production, citing a Global Witness report that suggests Shell's plant in Alberta captures less than 50% of CO2 emissions and doesn't account for the electricity used. A positive note is struck with a Daily Mail report on a local UK wind turbine providing affordable electricity to 17 households. The review touches on the demise of the Bollinger B1 off-roader, BP's projection that EV chargers may soon be more profitable than petrol pumps, and the opening of Shell's first dedicated EV charging hub in Fulham, highlighting its reliability despite steep pricing. Finally, the return of the VW e-Up! is announced, and the video explores the growing EV market in Australia, including the use of old cooking oil to power a rapid charger in a remote location, and South Australia's achievement of running on 100% renewable energy for six and a half days. less

The 30 Best Electric Cars To Buy Right Now!

This video provides a comprehensive guide to the best electric cars available in 2022, categorized by price point from sub-£15,000 to luxury models, w... moreith a bonus section on used EVs. The reviewer highlights a wide range of vehicles, praising the Dacia Spring for its affordability and practicality, the MG ZS and MG 5 for their exceptional value, and the Tesla Model 3 and Hyundai Ioniq 5 as top contenders in the £30,000-£45,000 bracket. While acknowledging Tesla's build quality issues, the reviewer emphasizes its superior self-driving technology and charging network. The Ioniq 5 is lauded for its comfort, design, and practicality. The guide also touches upon sporty options like the Polestar 2, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and Kia EV6, and luxury choices such as the BMW iX and Mercedes EQS. The reviewer's main critique is the limited availability of truly affordable EVs and some infotainment system quirks in VW Group models. Overall, the video serves as a valuable resource for potential EV buyers. less