Out of Spec BITS is a premier digital channel dedicated to the dynamic world of electric vehicles (EVs). This distributor delves into the latest advancements in EV technology, charging infrastructure, and the practical realities of EV ownership. Through insightful coverage and engaging discussions, Out of Spec BITS provides a comprehensive look at the evolving landscape of electric mobility.
The channel's content offers a deep dive into weekly EV news, ownership tips, and explorations of emerging trends. From examining the performance of cutting-edge EV components to analyzing the infrastructure that powers them, Out of Spec BITS serves as an essential resource for enthusiasts and those curious about the future of transportation.
The channel's content offers a deep dive into weekly EV news, ownership tips, and explorations of emerging trends. From examining the performance of cutting-edge EV components to analyzing the infrastructure that powers them, Out of Spec BITS serves as an essential resource for enthusiasts and those curious about the future of transportation.
1550nm Vehicle Lidar Fried My Phone But Will It Ruin The Autopilot Cameras On My Tesla!?
This video investigates the potential for the Volvo EX90's 1550nm LiDAR system to damage camera sensors, a concern amplified by online reports. The hosts successfully demonstrate that the LiDAR can indeed fry smartphone cameras, causing permanent damage, even from a distance. They meticulously te...
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My Dad Tries Tesla FSD For The First Time He Actually Loves It
Scot's father, a self-proclaimed 'analog manual' individual and attorney of 45 years, experiences Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) ... morefor the first time in a Model Y Standard. Initially apprehensive, he is progressively impressed by the system's smooth operation, handling of complex traffic scenarios, and ability to navigate varied road conditions, even those without clear markings. While acknowledging the system's capabilities, particularly its potential to assist those with disabilities or the elderly, he maintains a cautious perspective on environmental impacts and resource depletion associated with EVs. A notable hiccup occurred when the FSD attempted to navigate into a 'Do Not Enter' zone and subsequently a car wash, highlighting the need for driver vigilance. Despite this, his final verdict is one of impressed surprise, finding the system far more proficient and less 'robotic' than anticipated, ultimately viewing it as a promising advancement for transportation safety and accessibility. less
The Ford F-150 Lightning Is Dead! Initial Reaction From Owners Plus Service & Repair Into The Future
Ford has officially announced the discontinuation of the F-150 Lightning, a decision driven by lower-than-anticipated sales and financial losses. Whil... moree owners express sadness, the consensus highlights the Lightning's exceptional driving experience, comfort, and utility, particularly for towing and daily use, despite some software and charging limitations. The high cost and lack of clear total cost of ownership communication at dealerships were cited as major barriers to adoption. Ford plans to pivot towards an extended-range electric vehicle (e-REV) truck, though details remain scarce, leading to skepticism about its viability compared to a pure battery-electric solution. Owners praise the Lightning's reliability, with many reporting minimal issues and excellent battery health retention, even in harsh conditions. The repairability is also noted as a positive, with readily available parts and straightforward service procedures, suggesting long-term ownership is feasible. less
Ionna Is Making Insane DCFC Progress and Tesla Unlocks Supercharging Awards! This Week In DCFC
This week's DCFC news roundup highlights significant progress in EV charging infrastructure. A major development is BMW owners gaining access to ... morethe Tesla Supercharger network, marking the 15th non-Tesla brand to do so. The video also provides an in-depth look at IONNA's expansion, detailing their strategy to focus on larger 'rechargery' sites and connecting corridors in top metro areas, with a significant number of bays already under contract and in permitting. Tesla is making strides with the installation of Megawatt chargers at their Nevada factory and is exploring customer experience enhancements like 'Micro Amenity' lounges and the 'Charging Passport' to gamify usage. While the video notes the initial bootstrap phase of smaller 'relay rechargery' sites, the long-term vision points towards larger, more amenity-rich installations. The report also touches on new charging station openings from various providers, emphasizing the rapid growth in the sector and the increasing focus on customer convenience and accessibility. less
We React To The "Wet Handshake": Rivian’s Ignoring of Long-Term Bugs is Getting Old
This episode of Out of Spec Bits features a discussion on a viral Reddit post highlighting persistent software bugs in Rivian vehicles. Hosts Scott an... mored Jose from Rivian Tracker delve into the "wet handshake" issue, where owners feel Rivian is neglecting long-term software problems. While both acknowledge the validity of many complaints, they note that their personal experiences with issues like HVAC malfunctions and sensor failures have been minimal, suggesting a potential disparity in owner experiences. The conversation touches upon the challenges of differentiating between minor inconveniences and critical bugs, the impact of focusing resources on the upcoming R2, and the potential abandonment of first-generation owners. The hosts express concern that Rivian's approach to bug fixing and software updates could erode brand trust, especially as they prepare for mass-market vehicles like the R2, where such issues may be less tolerated by the average consumer. less
Mercedes HPC at Starbucks! This Week in DC Fast Charging
This week in EV charging news highlights significant expansion and partnership developments. The Tesla Supercharger team opened a massive 164-stall &q... moreuot;Oasis" in Lost Hills, California, and added 16 new stations, including a needed one in West Virginia. A major focus was the Mercedes-Benz High Power Charging and Starbucks collaboration, with the first station opening in Red Bluff, California, praised for its user-friendly design, dual CCS/NACS plugs, and integration with ChargePoint. Mercedes-Benz also celebrated reaching 500 operational stalls. BP Pulse opened a large 40-stall Gigahub at O'Hare Airport and another 12-stall station in Georgia, showcasing their rapid expansion. Charge Smart EV, a growing CPO, discussed their rapid growth and plans for network expansion, particularly in New York State, emphasizing their commitment to dual-port chargers. Electrify America also reported installing 500 stalls at Simon Mall locations. The segment also noted Ion's new chargers and EVgo's larger station builds. The "Wall of Shame" award went to Bcal Car City in Brooklyn for egregious price gouging at $2/kWh plus a session fee. less
Tesla Holiday Update 2025: Grok Navigation, Supercharger Visualizations, Dash Cam FSD Status, and More
The 2025 Tesla Holiday Update introduces a range of software enhancements, with the Grok AI integration for navigation being a standout feature. This ... moreallows for multi-stop trip planning and personalized tours, marking a significant step in AI's role within the vehicle. Other notable additions include a Tesla Photo Booth for in-car selfies, an improved Dog Mode with live widget updates, and a Dash Cam viewer with FSD overlays, which will be invaluable for content creators and accident analysis. While the update brings useful features like location-based charge limits and a phone-left-behind chime, some reviewers felt it was light on groundbreaking changes, with features like Santa Mode and the light show being more cosmetic. The Supercharger visualization, while visually impressive, is currently limited in scope. The lack of Apple CarPlay integration continues to be a point of discussion, though some argue for Tesla's native system's superiority. Overall, the update focuses on refining existing functionalities and expanding AI capabilities, setting the stage for future autonomous driving advancements. less
Rivian's Autonomy Day Is In 1 Week! Here's What We Are Expecting
The hosts and guest Jose from Rivian Tracker anticipate Rivian's upcoming Autonomy Day, expecting significant advancements in the brand's dr... moreiver-assistance technology. A key focus is the potential launch of a more capable hands-free system, possibly a beta version, which they believe is necessary to impress invited Tesla enthusiasts. The discussion highlights the current limitations of Rivian's highway assist, particularly its reliance on pre-mapped roads and the frustration this causes in areas with construction or unmapped routes. There's a strong sentiment that current features like lane centering and lane changes should remain free, while more advanced capabilities like autonomous decision-making and turns will likely be part of a paid subscription. The conversation also touches on hardware capabilities, with a hope that Gen 2 vehicles are sufficiently equipped for future autonomy levels without requiring a Gen 3 purchase. The overall expectation is for Rivian to unveil a compelling system that rivals or surpasses current offerings, potentially rolling out soon and integrated into the upcoming R2 model. less
William's First Tesla FSD Experience! European Reacts To 14.2
This video documents William's initial encounter with Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) Beta 14.2, experienced in a new Tesla Model Y Juniper.... more The reviewer highlights the novelty of the FSD system for a European user, contrasting it with potential regional differences or expectations. While the transcript is empty, the title and description suggest the core content revolves around demonstrating and reacting to the FSD capabilities. The video appears to be a user-generated experience rather than a deep technical dive, focusing on the real-world application and user perception of the autonomous driving technology. less
My Solution To Needing So Many Electric Car Charging Adapters
This video addresses the growing complexity of electric vehicle charging adapters due to the ongoing transition to the NACS (J3400) standard. The revi... moreewer highlights the confusion and inconvenience caused by the multitude of adapters required for different vehicles and charging standards, emphasizing the personal struggle of misplacing and running out of essential adapters. While acknowledging the eventual benefits of NACS, the video stresses the need for careful management of adapters during the 5-10 year transition period. The reviewer also touches upon adapter safety, recommending the use of manufacturer-approved adapters to maintain warranty coverage, while also noting the emerging UL2252 standard for third-party adapters. The bulk of the video is dedicated to unboxing and showcasing a large order of adapters and charging equipment from EV Dance, intended to be distributed across various vehicles and locations to mitigate the risk of being caught without the correct adapter. less
Ionna Launches In California! This Week In DCFC
This week's DCFC update highlights significant expansion and investment in EV charging infrastructure across the US. IONNA is making rapid progre... moress in California, with stations being installed at an impressive speed, showcasing strong project planning. The report details substantial state-level funding initiatives, such as Illinois' $20 million allocation, and PowerUp America's success in securing 11 NEVI Phase 2 awards in Georgia. Tesla continues its aggressive Supercharger deployment with several large stations opening. A notable consumer benefit discussed is the unexpected $80 EVgo credit offered to General Motors owners, which can be used across various charging networks. Pilot Flying J also expanded its network with new stations, including a large one in Maryland. IONNA's commitment to a seamless customer experience is emphasized through its Plug & Charge integration with multiple automakers, including the recent additions of Rivian and Ford. The introduction of IONNA's 'Rechargery Beacon' design in Westminster, California, is also a key development. The review concludes with updates on Rivian Adventure Network, EVgo, BP Pulse, and Charge Smart EV, alongside a 'Wall of Shame' nomination for an excessively priced charging station. less
Rivian R1S 1 Year Ownership Review! Smooth Sailing & Would Purchase Again
After 14 months and 17,000 miles, the reviewer expresses strong overall satisfaction with his Gen 2 Rivian R1S, praising its stunning aesthetics, exce... moreptional daily driving and road-tripping capabilities, and impressive off-road prowess even with standard tires. The spacious and comfortable interior, particularly the rear seating, is a significant highlight. However, the reviewer identifies several key areas for improvement. The Rivian Autonomy Platform occasionally struggles with eye-tracking and has repeatable glitches on certain highways. Service experiences are generally positive, but a lack of suitable loaner vehicles and a minor incident with a forgotten tire re-inflation are noted. The most significant criticisms are directed at the premium audio system, which is deemed underwhelming and not significantly better than standard systems in other vehicles, and the slow response of the phone key and mobile app due to the car's slow wake-up times. Despite these drawbacks, the reviewer remains enthusiastic about the vehicle, highlighting the community and the potential for future software improvements, though he expresses some concern about long-term hardware support mirroring past Tesla experiences. less
VW Gains Supercharger Access and Walmart Expands 400kW Charging Network in Arizona - This Week in DCFC
This week's DCFC update highlights significant advancements in EV charging infrastructure and accessibility. Volkswagen owners are set to gain ac... morecess to the Tesla Supercharger network starting November 18th, a move expected to alleviate range anxiety for many. Walmart is rapidly expanding its charging network, notably deploying 400kW ABB A400 and Alpitronic HYC 400 chargers in the Phoenix area, demonstrating a commitment to high-speed charging. The acquisition of the former Volta network by German CPO Jolt signals a consolidation and potential revitalization of previously stalled charging assets. Additionally, the Mercedes-Benz High Power Charging Network is actively engaging with drivers through events like 'Charge Giving,' gathering crucial feedback to enhance the premium charging experience. While infrastructure is expanding, the discussion also touches upon the evolving driver expectations, moving beyond mere functionality to encompass amenities and user experience, with a call for features like canopies and pull-through stalls. less
Tesla Opens East Coast Pull-Through Canopy Station! Weekly DCFC Update
This episode of EVChannels provides a comprehensive update on the evolving EV charging infrastructure, with a particular focus on new developments fro... morem Tesla, Walmart, and emerging CPOs like PowerUp America and Ionity. The Tesla Supercharger team is expanding with new pull-through canopy stations, exemplified by the I-95 location. Walmart is enhancing its EV charging website, signaling a significant push into the market. A major highlight is the in-depth interview with Josh Turner, CEO of PowerUp America, who details the company's mission to create a superior charging experience with safe, reliable, and unique stations, including canopy pull-through designs and high-power charging capabilities. The discussion also touches on Amazon's assessment of DC fast chargers for its delivery fleet and the broader adoption challenges and opportunities for EVs, especially in rural and agricultural communities. The review notes the increasing competition and strategic placement of new charging sites, aiming to offer a better alternative to existing options. less
This Week Tesla And BP Pulse Launch 40-Stall Canopy Stations And More!
This video provides a comprehensive update on the expansion of DC fast charging infrastructure, with a particular focus on Tesla's significant gr... moreowth. The reviewer highlights Tesla's opening of a new 40-stall canopy station in Baker, California, noting its strategic location between Los Angeles and Las Vegas and its high concentration of chargers. The discussion also delves into Tesla's impressive milestone of surpassing 10,000 Supercharger stalls in California, solidifying its dominant market share. The video contrasts Tesla's rapid expansion with other charging networks like BP Pulse, Electrify America, and Red E, detailing their recent station openings and partnerships. A notable segment clarifies the distinction between charging 'stalls' and 'ports,' specifically addressing Alpitronic's HYC 400 units. The reviewer commends Tesla's data-driven approach to network expansion and site selection, which allows for more effective and dynamic deployment compared to competitors. Overall, the video emphasizes Tesla's continued leadership in the EV charging space. less
Weekly DCFC Update - Alpitronic Passes 100,000 Ports Worldwide!
This weekly update covers significant developments in the EV charging infrastructure landscape. Alpitronic has achieved a major milestone, surpassing ... more100,000 installed DC fast charger ports globally, positioning them as a leader outside of China, and notably ahead of Tesla's Supercharger network. The report highlights the continued expansion of networks like Pilot Flying J and the introduction of new hardware vendors by CPO Red E, including Lincoln Electric. A key focus is Electrify America's innovative use of battery energy storage systems (BESS), which has earned them three recent awards. This technology is crucial for overcoming utility capacity constraints and managing demand charges, enabling faster deployment and potentially improving cost structures. The integration of Electrify America's network status into Google Maps and Android Automotive is also a significant step towards a more seamless user experience, mirroring Tesla's approach. While the video touches on various network updates, the detailed discussion on Electrify America's BESS strategy and Alpitronic's global expansion are the most impactful takeaways. less
Xpeng G9 Has Mega Capability! The New Electric SUV King?
The XPeng G9 Performance is presented as a highly capable electric SUV, boasting impressive specifications, particularly its advertised 525 kW peak ch... morearging rate and a large 93.1 kWh LFP battery. The reviewer highlights the G9's significant advantages over the G6, including superior interior materials, a more premium feel, and the inclusion of air suspension, which greatly enhances ride comfort. The rear seats are praised for their spaciousness and luxury features like massaging, heating, and ventilation. Storage space is also noted as a strong point. However, the review points out several drawbacks: the steering wheel is considered subpar, the one-pedal driving system is criticized for its clunky implementation (especially the transition between drive and reverse), and the driving experience is described as disconnected and not particularly fun, prioritizing comfort over engagement. Despite these issues, the reviewer concludes that the G9 is the best XPeng product to date, offering excellent charging performance, a good LFP battery, and a refined interior, making it a compelling, albeit expensive, option for those prioritizing comfort and charging speed over driving dynamics. less
The Xpeng G6 Seems Like A Great Package But This Is A Dealbreaker
The XPENG G6 presents a compelling package on paper, particularly its Long Range LFP battery and impressive 450 kW charging capability, which the revi... moreewer confirms as a significant advantage for road trips. The interior offers some nice touches like ambient lighting and a digital rearview mirror, with ample rear passenger space. However, the driving experience is marred by several critical flaws. The reviewer finds the steering wheel awkwardly shaped and prone to accidental button presses, and the one-pedal driving (X-pedal) system is poorly calibrated, requiring a hard brake press to stop, which deviates from expected behavior. Furthermore, the inconsistent creep speed between forward and reverse adds to the driving frustrations. While the charging performance is exceptional, reaching nearly 400 kW despite charger limitations, these driving dynamics and the steering wheel design are highlighted as significant dealbreakers for the reviewer, overshadowing the otherwise strong specifications. less
Rivian Adopts Plug & Charge At Ionna / EA, Duracell Launches Charging Stations, & BP Pulse Gigahub
This week's EV charging news roundup highlights significant developments for consumers and the industry. Rivian's integration with IONNA sta... moretions, enabling Plug & Charge, is a major convenience boost, eliminating the need for separate apps and circumventing credit card holds. The expansion of IONNA stations, with an estimated hundred under construction, signals a growing network. Blink Charging secured a substantial contract to deploy EV charging infrastructure across the city of Richmond, Virginia, catering to fleets, residents, and travelers. BP Pulse is offering a limited-time promotion of 1 cent per kWh at its LAX Gigahub to celebrate its new lounge opening. The interview with Andrew Linton of Vive EV introduces their robust charging solutions, including the high-power Tron units, and discusses the strategic entry into the North American market. The segment also touches upon the future of ultra-fast charging with 600kW capabilities and the increasing adoption of battery storage by CPOs like Electrify America. Duracell is expanding its EV charging network in the UK, with potential US expansion. Overall, the news points to a rapidly evolving and increasingly accessible charging landscape. less
Kempower's Big Update + Tesla & Ionna Keep Expanding | DCFC Weekly
This episode of DCFC Weekly provides a comprehensive update on the rapidly evolving electric vehicle charging infrastructure landscape. The primary fo... morecus is on Kempower's significant product enhancements, notably their ability to support up to 12 charging stalls from a single 600 kW power unit, a substantial increase from the previous eight. This 'more plugs' initiative, part of their 'more power, more plugs, more data' strategy, aims to increase flexibility and accommodate higher EV adoption rates, particularly in Nordic markets. While the reduced per-stall power (50 kW when all 12 are active) is noted, the flexibility and potential for cost-effectiveness for operators are highlighted as key advantages. The review also covers expansion news from various Charge Point Operators (CPOs) including Rebel's San Francisco build-out, Shore Power's Canadian expansion, CPO Ready's continued momentum, and Pilot Flying J's ongoing efforts to fill charging deserts. Tesla's significant Supercharger network growth, with 10 new stations including a large 24-stall site near Toronto, is also detailed, alongside viewer-submitted sightings of Ionna's expanding 'Rechargery' network. EVgo and Electrify America also contribute to the network expansion updates, with Electrify America's partnership with Royal Farms in Maryland being a notable point. The segment concludes by emphasizing the importance of these expansions for the EV community. less
Visiting A Showroom To See Tesla Model Y Standard! This Is A Great Option For First Time EV Buyers
The reviewer provides an in-depth look at the Tesla Model Y Standard trim, highlighting its position as a more accessible entry point for EV buyers. K... moreey observations include the updated exterior lighting, which is praised for its design, and the functional, albeit less premium, interior. The reviewer notes the removal of certain creature comforts like the glass roof and interior lighting, attributing these changes to cost-saving measures and segmentation to push buyers towards the premium trim. While acknowledging the car's basic functionality and spaciousness, the primary criticism is directed at its price point, which the reviewer deems too high for the features offered, suggesting a more appropriate price in the mid to low $30,000s. The reviewer concludes that while not a bad car, the Standard Model Y is better suited for leasing rather than purchasing outright due to its value proposition. less
Lucid Air Sapphire Aero, Road, & Track Wheel / Tire Options
This video provides an in-depth look at the wheel and tire options for the Lucid Air Sapphire, a high-performance electric sedan. The reviewer explore... mores the factory Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires and the included carbon fiber aero covers, highlighting their premium construction and potential range benefits. A significant portion of the video is dedicated to the track-focused Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS tires, specifically developed for the Sapphire, noting their ultra-high performance and low treadwear rating. A key revelation is that despite initial appearances and the presence of center-lock-style interfaces on the aero covers, the wheels themselves utilize a standard five-lug bolt pattern, simplifying installation and negating the need for specialized center-lock torque wrenches for everyday use. The reviewer expresses excitement for upcoming performance and range testing with these various configurations, emphasizing the car's versatility from daily driving to track use. less
EVgo Adopts NACS, Culver's Installs Fast Chargers, & More! This Week In DCFC
This episode of 'This Week In DCFC' provides a comprehensive overview of recent developments in the EV charging infrastructure landscape. Th... moree host highlights significant announcements, including Tesla's opening of its first V4 Supercharger station and EVgo's adoption of NACS connectors across numerous locations, signaling a major shift in charging standards. A key focus is the expansion of charging networks in Wisconsin, particularly the new GM Energy partnership station at Culver's in Rhinelander, funded by NEVI. The reviewer emphasizes the importance of these installations in filling charging gaps and notes Wisconsin's apparent lead in EV infrastructure development compared to neighboring states. The episode also touches upon the broader trend of increasing energy dispensing at charging stations, citing Tesla's Q3 numbers as evidence of continued growth. While the review is informative, it lacks specific vehicle reviews or driving impressions, focusing primarily on infrastructure news. less
Tesla Installs First V4 Supercharger! Everything We Know - Finally Supporting High Voltage
This video provides an in-depth look at Tesla's new V4 Supercharger stations, featuring insights from charging experts Brandon Flasch and Walter ... moreSchultz. The V4 technology represents a significant upgrade, moving beyond the previous 500-volt limitation to support 1000-volt capability, crucial for charging 800-volt class vehicles like the Cybertruck at much higher speeds (up to 500 kW). While the physical cabinet design is similar to V3, V4 cabinets can now support eight dispensers instead of four, improving density. The experts highlight that this upgrade is particularly beneficial for future non-Tesla EVs with 800-volt architectures, enabling them to charge at significantly higher rates (400 kW+) compared to current limitations on V3 chargers. The V4 dispensers also feature immersion-cooled cables for better performance in hot weather and a longer cable length. The addition of a payment terminal is seen as a welcome improvement for non-Tesla drivers. While Tesla has historically been a leader in EV charging, the V4's delayed introduction means they are now catching up to competitors in some aspects, but this upgrade positions them to remain competitive and future-proof their network. less
Tesla Launches New Model Y Performance For North America
The launch of the new Tesla Model Y Performance for the North American market brings several notable updates, though not a complete overhaul. Key enha... morencements include a revised front bumper, new aerodynamic wheel inserts, and a more aggressive rear diffuser. Inside, the vehicle receives the larger central screen and new performance seats with improved bolstering. The reviewers highlight the improved 0-60 mph time, a significant upgrade from the previous generation. However, they express disappointment that adaptive suspension is not standard, especially given the larger 21-inch staggered wheels, which may compromise ride comfort on rough roads. The inability to finance or lease the vehicle at launch, requiring cash purchases to secure the tax credit, is also noted as a peculiar decision. While the updates are welcomed, particularly the focus on aerodynamics and the new interior screen, the lack of more substantial performance-oriented features like active suspension leaves room for future improvements. less