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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Microgrids, EV Charging, and Going Green: Navigating the Energy Landscape with Xendee CEO
This episode of the Out-of-Spec Podcast features Adib Naslé, CEO of Xendee, discussing the company's innovative software platform designed to sim... moreplify the design, sale, and operation of complex energy systems, including microgrids and EV charging infrastructure. Naslé highlights Xendee's role in catalyzing the energy transition by addressing the challenges of infrastructure limitations, behavioral shifts, and the need for resilience. The platform offers a "virtual test drive" to build confidence for decision-makers, providing sophisticated, science-based analysis for financial and environmental benefits. Xendee's solutions cater to a diverse market, from residential mini-grids to sophisticated military applications and commercial EV fleet charging, emphasizing flexibility, speed to market, and integrated approaches to overcome expertise shortages and accelerate adoption. The core takeaway is that integrated software solutions are crucial for navigating the rapidly evolving energy sector, maximizing revenues, and minimizing risk, ultimately driving the transition to cleaner, more reliable energy systems. less
GM Cuts Apple CarPlay For Safety But We Have Doubts
GM's decision to remove Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from its future EVs is met with significant skepticism and criticism in this episode. The ... morehosts dissect GM's stated "safety" rationale, deeming it weak and unsubstantiated, especially given that GM itself has not tested this theory. The timing of this safety claim, appearing eight months after the initial announcement, further fuels doubt. The recent experience with a Chevy Blazer EV, which bricked within 28 hours of testing due to software issues, serves as a stark warning, directly contradicting GM's narrative of improved safety through proprietary systems. The podcast strongly suggests the real motivation is the pursuit of subscription revenue, citing GM's ambitious revenue targets from such services. This move is contrasted with other manufacturers like Ford, who are committed to retaining CarPlay and Android Auto, highlighting GM's isolated and potentially self-defeating strategy. The hosts express disappointment and frustration with GM's disingenuous approach, arguing it benefits only the company at the expense of the consumer. less
First Kia EV9 Delivery In New England! And They Love It
Matt, an early adopter in New England, shares his initial impressions of the 2024 Kia EV9 Wind AWD. He highlights the vehicle's spaciousness, com... morefortable ride, and impressive build quality, noting it's significantly quieter than his older Tesla Model S. A key factor in his decision was the need for a three-row electric SUV, a segment with limited options. Matt praises the EV9's sporty handling and surprisingly good turning radius for its size. He also details the financial advantage of leasing due to the $7,500 lease cash incentive, which is unavailable for purchases. While generally positive, he points out minor drawbacks like the pedestrian warning sound below 30 mph and the preconditioning system's limitation of not working below 20% state of charge. Despite these, Matt is a very happy customer and sees the EV9 as a compelling choice for families seeking an electric, large SUV. less
Jordan's Model 3 Roadtrip With 140,000+ Miles On The Odometer! EV Drive From CO To TN | Episode 214
Jordan shares his extensive road trip experience from Colorado to Tennessee in a high-mileage (140,000+ miles) Tesla Model 3. He highlights the reliab... moreility and ubiquity of Tesla's Supercharger network, noting that extensive route planning was unnecessary. Despite some battery degradation and minor mechanical quirks (squeaks, rattles), Jordan found the car comfortable and capable for long distances. He discusses the impact of cold weather on efficiency and shares an anecdote about being pulled over for driving too slowly. A key takeaway is that even with an older EV and less robust charging infrastructure in the Midwest, range anxiety is largely unfounded for most drivers. Jordan encourages new EV adopters to try road tripping, emphasizing that the experience is less intimidating than often perceived and that most users don't push their vehicles to their limits. less
Entire Autel Energy EV Charging Product Line Explained
This episode of EVChannels features Dan Larson, Product and Solutions Manager at Autel Energy, providing a comprehensive overview of Autel's dive... morerse EV charging product line. The discussion highlights Autel's transition from automotive diagnostics to EV charging, leveraging their software and diagnostic expertise. Key takeaways include the importance of interoperability, demonstrated by their participation in the CharIN Testival, and the focus on user experience, aiming to make EV charging as seamless as refueling a gasoline car. Autel's product range spans from residential AC chargers, including the AC Elite and AC Ultra with innovative features like dual-port simultaneous charging and cold-weather cable improvements, to commercial solutions like the 50A AC charger with revenue collection capabilities. The conversation also delves into the DC fast charging segment, featuring the DC Compact (40kW) ideal for locations with shorter dwell times and the flagship DC fast chargers (up to 240kW) designed for high reliability with modular components and remote diagnostics to minimize downtime and maintenance costs. Autel's commitment to US manufacturing and compliance with standards like NEVI is also emphasized. less
EV Battery Recycling Explained - BMW Creating A Closed Loop
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast features an in-depth discussion with Kurt Vandeputte, Manager of Battery Cell Competence at BMW Group, focusin... moreg on the critical topic of EV battery recycling and the establishment of a closed-loop material system. Vandeputte emphasizes that sustainable electric mobility is contingent upon achieving a material loop, allowing for the multiple reuse of mineral resources. He highlights the significant environmental benefits, noting that recycled atoms in new battery production can reduce embedded CO2 by 30-40% compared to virgin materials, with BMW aiming for 50% secondary raw material integration. A key takeaway is that recycled materials, particularly metals like nickel, lithium, and cobalt, can be of very high purity, often matching or exceeding virgin material quality, debunking common perceptions of quality degradation. The discussion also addresses the substantial challenges, including the increasing complexity of battery and pack designs, safety concerns during dismantling, and the need for the entire recycling infrastructure—collection, disassembly, and processing—to scale efficiently and cost-competitively. Vandeputte stresses the importance of regional material loops to balance scale and environmental impact, predicting distinct industries in North America, Europe, and China. The conversation underscores the vital role of regulation, transparency initiatives like the Global Battery Alliance, and the need for a balance between first-use performance and end-of-life recycling integration. less
BMW's Battery Strategy Explained - Considering Every Chemistry
This episode features an insightful discussion with Kurt Vandeputte, Manager of Battery Cell Competence at BMW Group, focusing on the company's e... morevolving battery strategy. BMW is transitioning from prismatic to cylindrical cells for its upcoming Gen 6 batteries, set to debut in the 2025 "Neue Klasse" models. This shift allows for a more integrated "cell-to-pack" design and improved thermal management. The strategy embraces diverse chemistries, utilizing LFP for cost-effective, daily-use applications and NMC for performance-oriented models. A particularly innovative approach highlighted is the "dual chemistry" system developed with ONE, combining an LFP traction battery with an anode-less range extender battery to achieve exceptional range (over 600 miles WLTP in an iX test). While solid-state batteries are being explored for the future, they remain a long-term research project due to manufacturing and interaction challenges. BMW's commitment to understanding battery chemistry and manufacturing from the ground up, through partnerships and in-house competence centers, positions them to engage with suppliers on an equal technological footing and drive innovation in the EV battery ecosystem. less
Tesla Recalls 2 Million EVs - Maybe It's No Big Deal | Episode 210
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast tackles the recent news of Tesla's 2 million vehicle recall concerning the Autopilot system. Hosts Franci... moree and Brandon (TeslaFlex) dissect the NHTSA's findings, emphasizing that the issue primarily involves software and driver attention rather than a physical defect. They clarify the distinctions between Autopilot, Enhanced Autopilot, and Full Self-Driving, highlighting how misuse of Autopilot, such as not maintaining attention or relying on it in complex situations, is the core concern. The discussion underscores that the 'recall' is largely a software update, often delivered over-the-air, and contrasts this with traditional hardware recalls. While acknowledging the dramatic headlines, the hosts conclude that the actual impact on drivers is minimal, primarily involving enhanced visual and auditory alerts to ensure driver engagement. They suggest the term 'recall' might be outdated for such software fixes and that Tesla's proactive approach to software updates is a significant advantage. less
How EVgo Tests Interoperability and Troubleshoots Hardware
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast features Jeremy Bibeau from EVgo, discussing the critical role of interoperability and hardware testing at the... more CharIN Testival. EVgo's participation highlights their commitment to ensuring seamless charging experiences for all EV drivers, regardless of vehicle or charging station. The discussion delves into the complexities of digital communication standards, the distinction between AutoCharge+ and Plug & Charge, and the collaborative nature of the EV industry. A key takeaway is EVgo's successful testing of Plug & Charge capabilities, a significant highlight for the company. While specific vehicle models are not the focus, the conversation emphasizes the testing of charging hardware and software, including the use of test systems to mimic EVs for comprehensive data capture and problem identification. The episode underscores the industry's collective effort to identify and resolve bugs, ensuring reliability and fairness in charging, with EVgo actively contributing to standards organizations like SAE and CharIN. less
Francie Roadtrips Kyle's Rivian Over 600 Miles From Chattanooga To Cleveland
This episode details Francie's extensive 600+ mile road trip in a Rivian R1T from Chattanooga, Tennessee to Cleveland, Ohio. The discussion highl... moreights the positive experiences with EVgo's Pilot Flying J charging sites, which are praised for their performance and contribution to a smooth journey. Francie shares both the best and worst aspects of road-tripping in the R1T, offering valuable insights into the practicalities of long-distance EV travel. The conversation also touches upon potential future needs for EV road trips, suggesting areas for improvement and development in charging infrastructure and vehicle capabilities. Overall, the episode provides a real-world perspective on the current state of EV road-tripping, emphasizing the reliability of modern charging solutions while acknowledging room for future enhancement. less
We Read Your Tesla Cybertruck Questions! Episode 206
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast dives deep into viewer questions about the Tesla Cybertruck, addressing key areas like the 48-volt system, ste... moreer-by-wire technology, towing capabilities, battery specifics, and the unique stainless steel exterior. While many questions remain unanswered due to the limited availability and testing of the vehicle, the hosts provide insights based on available information and industry knowledge. The 48-volt system is confirmed to be native for most electronics, though the exact integration with a 12-volt system is still speculative. Steer-by-wire is expected to function conventionally, including turning during autonomous driving, with robust safety redundancies anticipated. For towing, the All-Wheel Drive trim is suggested as the practical choice over the Cyberbeast due to similar towing limits but better payload. The discussion highlights uncertainties around the rear-wheel-drive variant's battery size and the potential for a range extender, which is viewed as a cumbersome but potentially useful accessory. The stainless steel exoskeleton is praised for its durability and reduced need for paint, though repair costs remain a concern. Overall, the episode effectively outlines the current knowledge gaps and areas for future testing. less
Tesla Cybertruck High Voltage Battery Pack - Everything We Know
This episode delves into the technical specifications of the Tesla Cybertruck, focusing on details derived from EPA documents. Hosts Francie and Kyle ... moreanalyze battery size, potential charging curves, and other data points. While the video aims to provide concrete information, the lack of a transcript means the specific insights and conclusions drawn by the hosts cannot be detailed here. The review is based on the premise of dissecting official documentation to understand the Cybertruck's capabilities. less
Tesla Cybertruck Steer-By-Wire Explained
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast delves into the innovative steer-by-wire system of the Tesla Cybertruck. The hosts highlight the system's... more core functionality: a disconnected steering wheel communicating via electronic signals to the wheels, enabling a highly variable steering ratio, including a remarkable one-turn lock-to-lock. They acknowledge potential driver apprehension due to the lack of a mechanical backup, but draw parallels to established 'fly-by-wire' and 'brake-by-wire' technologies in aviation and modern EVs, respectively. The primary benefits discussed are enhanced maneuverability, especially at low speeds, and the potential for tailored steering characteristics for different driving modes (towing, off-road, performance). The rear-wheel steering, currently limited to 3 degrees but upgradable via software to 10 degrees, is also covered. While the technology is praised for its potential, the hosts emphasize the critical importance of tuning and driver feedback, expressing excitement to test its real-world performance and how Tesla implements variable ratios and force feedback. less
Tesla Cybertruck Powertrain Explained
The Out of Spec Podcast dives deep into the Tesla Cybertruck's powertrain options, dissecting the RWD, AWD, and Cyberbeast configurations. While ... morethe RWD is deemed unlikely and impractical, the AWD model is highlighted as the likely sweet spot for most buyers, praised for its traditional permanent magnet rear and induction front motor setup, and crucially, its front and rear mechanical differential locks, which the hosts believe will make it exceptionally capable off-road, surpassing competitors like the F-150 Lightning and Rivian R1T in this regard. The Cyberbeast, with its tri-motor setup (permanent magnet front, induction rear), offers immense power but raises questions about software tuning and potential limitations in extreme scenarios compared to the AWD's mechanical advantages. The hosts express excitement for the AWD's proven technology and predictable performance, while reserving judgment on the Cyberbeast until further testing, acknowledging its potential for both greatness and disappointment due to its complex drivetrain logic and reliance on software for ultimate performance. less
Advanced Diagnostics and Good Interfaces Can Help EV Charging: Deep Dive Into Solutions
This episode of the EVCharging podcast features an in-depth discussion with Marc Mültin, founder of Switch, focusing on the critical role of standardi... morezation and advanced diagnostics in EV charging. Mültin highlights the challenges of interoperability between EVs and chargers, emphasizing the need for unified communication standards like ISO 15118 and OCPP 2.0.1. Switch's offerings, Joseph (an embedded OS for chargers) and the Switch platform (a cloud-based management system), aim to simplify implementation for manufacturers and operators, respectively. A key takeaway is the potential of 'Plug and Charge' technology, enabled by ISO 15118, to significantly improve user experience by automating authorization and payment. Despite the standard being around for years, Mültin notes that widespread adoption is hindered by perceived complexity and a lack of official certification, though progress is being made. The discussion also touches upon the importance of user-friendly interfaces, the benefits of vertical integration (while adhering to open standards), and the ongoing efforts to achieve greater reliability and uptime in the charging infrastructure, drawing parallels to the evolution of the telecommunications industry. Mültin's motivation stems from a deep background in V2G technology and a desire to accelerate EV adoption by solving these complex backend challenges. less
Rivian Solves Software Snafu! Safe To Update Your R1T and R1S
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast addresses a recent software update snafu experienced by Rivian owners. Host Francie welcomes Jose Castillo, fo... moreunder of RivianTrackr, to clarify the situation. Castillo explains that a faulty internal build of software update 2023.42 was mistakenly released, causing infotainment systems to get stuck in a reboot loop for some users, though basic driving functions remained operational. He details the initial lack of clear communication from Rivian, which exacerbated owner anxiety. Rivian eventually pulled the update and developed a patch (2023.42.02) which was successfully rolled out to affected vehicles, followed by a corrected full release (2023.42.01). Castillo reassures listeners that it is now safe to update, emphasizing that while mistakes happen in software development, Rivian has learned from this incident and implemented better checks. He advises owners not to fear updates, as they are crucial for vehicle improvement and security, and highlights that the core driving and safety systems remained separate from the affected infotainment issues. less
We Attend The Cybertruck Delivery Event & Seem To Disagree w/ Everyone! | Episode 200
This episode of the Out Of Spec Podcast covers the highly anticipated Cybertruck delivery event at Tesla's Gigafactory in Austin, TX. Hosts Kyle ... moreand Coleton share their firsthand experience, detailing interactions with attendees and the Tesla team. A key takeaway is their divergence from the general sentiment at the event, highlighting specific highs and lows of their experience. The discussion also touches upon the remaining unanswered questions surrounding the Cybertruck's specifications and capabilities. While the podcast offers an insider's perspective, it lacks detailed technical specifications or driving impressions, focusing more on the event atmosphere and the hosts' unique take. less
Cybertruck Delivery Event - Everything We Learned From The Livestream
The Tesla Cybertruck delivery event recap highlights key information revealed and areas left ambiguous. While the event itself was noted for its raw, ... moreunscripted nature, the primary focus was on the truck's utility and unique design. The hosts discussed impressive specs like 0-60 times of 2.6 seconds and a 48-volt system, but expressed disappointment over the lack of detailed range and price information during the presentation, which was later supplemented by website data. The Cybertruck's polarizing aesthetic, bulletproof stainless steel body, and capabilities like towing and powering equipment were praised. However, the actual range figures (up to 340 miles for dual motor, 470 with range extender) fall short of initial 2019 claims, and pricing starts significantly higher than initially projected. The review acknowledges the truck's potential to redefine the EV truck market despite these discrepancies, emphasizing its unique presence and innovative features. less
Tesla FSD Reviewed - The Past Present and V12 Future with DirtyTesla
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast features an in-depth discussion on Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) software with Chris from Dirty Tesla. ... moreChris, a long-time FSD user and tester, provides a comprehensive overview of its evolution from early, error-prone versions to the current state. He highlights significant improvements, such as enhanced navigation and reduced phantom braking, while also pointing out persistent frustrations, particularly with newer 'vision-only' Teslas lacking auto-park and summon capabilities due to the removal of ultrasonic sensors. The conversation delves into the upcoming V12 update, emphasizing its shift towards neural networks and away from hard-coded logic, a move Chris believes is crucial for true autonomous driving. While acknowledging the system's current limitations and the high cost, Chris expresses optimism about FSD's potential, finding it valuable for reducing driving monotony and stress, even suggesting it might be worth the $12,000 price tag for the right user. He remains cautiously hopeful for the future, particularly regarding the V12's promise of more human-like driving behavior. less
Dave Tackles The NYC EV Scene: Cybertruck, Fisker Ocean, Polestar 3, Lucid Air & More | Episode 196
Dave shares his firsthand impressions of the Tesla Cybertruck after visiting a New York City showroom. Initially skeptical of its unconventional desig... moren, Dave was pleasantly surprised by its appearance in person, noting it looks like something out of a 'Tron' movie. He observed that build quality, particularly panel gaps, seemed well-executed on the displayed unit, contrary to some online criticisms. However, he noted the exterior's susceptibility to fingerprints and scratches, particularly on the black trim around the wheel wells. The truck's massive size was apparent, with a laser measurement suggesting it could be longer than initially expected. Practical aspects like bed size and cargo capacity were difficult to assess as certain features, like the tonneau cover and doors, were not accessible. Dave also touched upon the Fisker Ocean and Polestar 3, offering brief thoughts on their design and features, but the Cybertruck remained the highlight of his urban EV exploration. less
Cybertruck Is In Showrooms! Kyle’s First Impressions
This episode features Kyle's initial impressions from a visit to a Cybertruck showroom. While the video doesn't offer a deep dive into the v... moreehicle's specifications or performance, it captures the public's and employees' reactions, providing a glimpse into the initial market reception. Kyle shares general impressions, noting the crowd's interest and the limited information available from showroom staff. The content serves as an early look at the Cybertruck's presence in a public setting, highlighting the buzz surrounding its arrival in showrooms. However, it lacks detailed analysis of the vehicle itself, focusing more on the experience of seeing it in person and the surrounding atmosphere. less
Kyle's Risky Cheap Electric Mercedes B-Class Purchase Explained
The host details his acquisition of a $3,000 Mercedes B-Class Electric, the cheapest EV he could find. Initially purchased with the intention of repai... morering a known onboard charger failure, further investigation revealed deeper, more complex issues, including potential problems with the 12-volt system and the DC-DC booster, which had previously incurred significant repair costs from a Mercedes dealer. Despite the initial assumption of an onboard charger fault, diagnostics at QC Charge indicated the onboard charger was functioning correctly, leaving the root cause of the vehicle's numerous warning messages and shutdowns uncertain. The host strongly advises against purchasing a B-Class Electric, even at its market value of $10,000-$15,000, citing a lack of DC fast charging, limited aftermarket support, and significant potential for costly motor and seal failures, likening it to a 'ticking time bomb.' While the car's unique status as a rare US-market EV and its high-quality build are acknowledged, the prohibitive repair costs and inherent reliability concerns make it an impractical choice for most consumers. less
EVgo Talks Hardware Decisions, Introduces NACS, Retrofits, and Improved Reliability
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast features an in-depth discussion with EVgo representatives Jeremy Whaling and Katie Wallace, focusing on the co... morempany's strategies for improving public EV charging reliability and expansion. Key initiatives highlighted include the 'EVgo Renew' program, a comprehensive maintenance and upgrade effort targeting legacy equipment, and 'One & Done' rates aimed at ensuring successful charging sessions on the first attempt. The conversation also delves into hardware considerations, including retrofitting for NACS compatibility and the exploration of various charging hardware manufacturers. EVgo's commitment to customer education at events like the LA Auto Show and their proactive approach to communication regarding station status are emphasized. Furthermore, the podcast touches upon significant network growth, including partnerships with Pilot Flying J and GM, the development of prefabricated charging sites to accelerate deployment, and the strategic utilization of federal funding like NEVI to scale infrastructure nationwide. The overall message conveys EVgo's dedication to building a robust, reliable, and accessible public charging network for the growing EV market. less
We Drove The New Audi SQ8 E-Tron! Our Thoughts After The Review
The Audi SQ8 e-tron, representing a mid-cycle refresh for the model year 2024, offers a comfortable and refined driving experience, characteristic of ... moreAudi's luxury lineage. While it boasts significant improvements in steering feel and chassis dynamics thanks to stiffer bushings and recalibrated suspension, its performance and efficiency fall short of contemporary competitors. The reviewers found the power output underwhelming for its price point and segment, especially when compared to rivals offering substantially more horsepower for less money. Despite its impressive styling and excellent handling for an electric SUV, the SQ8 e-tron's value proposition is questioned, particularly given its $103,000 price tag and the fact that its core platform and battery capacity are similar to earlier, less expensive models. The consensus is that while it's a competent and well-engineered vehicle, it feels like a step behind the curve in terms of technological advancement and outright performance, making it a niche choice for brand loyalists rather than a segment leader. less