Out of Spec Reviews

Full Tour Of The Polestar EV Brand! Here's What They're Up To & Everything Coming - Polestar Day

Polestar Day provided an extensive look into the brand's current and future offerings, showcasing a clear design language and a strong commitment... more to sustainability. While the event focused on concepts and pre-production models, the presenters highlighted the Polestar 3 and Polestar 4 as key upcoming vehicles. The Polestar 4's controversial removal of the rear window was discussed, with arguments made for its potential to offer a wider digital view. The Polestar 3 was praised for its traditional SUV design and comfortable ride, though the lack of Dolby Atmos in the pre-production model was noted. The event also delved into Polestar's ambitious sustainability goals, including carbon-neutral production by 2030, and showcased partnerships for advanced charging technology (XFC) and autonomous driving systems (Luminar, Mobileye). Despite some conceptual elements, the overall impression is positive, with the brand demonstrating a clear vision and a drive towards innovation. less

Our Tesla Cybertruck Delivery Experience Vlog! We Had The Factory To Ourselves

The EV Channels team attended the highly anticipated Tesla Cybertruck delivery event at Gigafactory Texas. While the event offered an unprecedented lo... moreok inside the factory and a close-up view of the production line, the presentation itself notably omitted key details like final pricing and range figures, leaving many attendees and viewers with unanswered questions. The reviewers found the Cybertruck's polarizing design to be more appealing in person than in photos, with the dual-motor variant identified as the likely sweet spot for many consumers. Despite initial skepticism, the team expressed a growing desire for the vehicle, appreciating its unique styling and the perceived advancements in its motor and battery technology compared to competitors. However, the higher-than-initially-promised pricing for the dual-motor ($80k) and tri-motor ($100k) trims were noted as significant considerations for potential buyers, though still competitive within the broader market. The overall impression was positive, with praise for Tesla's openness during the factory tour and the enthusiastic reception from the EV community. less

Revealing The New Look For My Rivian R1T! Rivbros Went All Out On This Custom Printed Design

This video documents the custom vinyl wrap process for a Rivian R1T, transforming its original white finish into a unique "NATO Olive Green"... more design inspired by Porsche and the Red River Canyon. The "RivBros" (formerly "TesBros") team meticulously details the printing, lamination, and application, highlighting the challenges and precision required for custom graphics. Key takeaways include the durability of the 3M 280 series wrap, the importance of proper vehicle preparation, and the brand's expansion into the Rivian market. While the wrap itself is visually striking and well-executed, the primary focus is on the customization process and the business's capabilities rather than a traditional vehicle review. The owner expresses immense satisfaction with the final look, emphasizing the truck's intended use for work and adventure. less

NYC Is The Hardest City To Charge An EV! FLO's Street Side Chargers Help Solve The Problem

This video explores the challenges of EV charging in New York City, focusing on the implementation and effectiveness of FLO's street-side Level 2... more charging network in collaboration with Con Edison. The reviewer, Kyle, navigates the city to test these chargers, highlighting the practical difficulties EV owners face in an urban environment. While the video aims to showcase a solution, the lack of specific vehicle details or a direct review of the charging experience itself limits its scope. The primary takeaway is the ongoing effort to improve urban charging infrastructure, though the video doesn't delve deeply into the user experience or comparative performance of the FLO chargers. less

My First Look At Tesla Cybertruck!

This video offers a first-hand look at the production-representative Tesla Cybertruck on display in Littleton, Colorado. The hosts express a mix of in... moretrigue and reservation, acknowledging the vehicle's polarizing design and the slow rollout process. While the exterior finish and sheer size are noted, the hosts are eager to see real-world performance, towing, and battery specifications, which remain largely unknown. The interior, featuring a "squirkle" steering wheel and steer-by-wire, is briefly examined. The video highlights the controversial nature of the Cybertruck, with some viewers expressing outright dislike while others are drawn to its unique aesthetic. The hosts emphasize that a true evaluation will depend on driving dynamics and functional capabilities rather than just styling and build quality perceptions, which they found acceptable but subject to individual interpretation. The visit was deemed worthwhile for an early impression, despite the lack of definitive technical details. less

First Snow Of The Year! Model S & E-Tron Both Have Fresh Nokian Winter Tires - Let's Try Them Out

This video tests the performance of Nokian Hakkapeliitta winter tires on a Tesla Model S Plaid and an Audi e-tron 55 during the first significant snow... morefall of the year in Colorado. The reviewer highlights the challenging icy conditions, exacerbated by recent rain. The Model S Plaid is equipped with the Hakkapeliitta R5 EV (non-studded), which performs admirably, offering significant improvements in traction and braking over all-season tires, even on ice. The Audi e-tron 55 features the Hakkapeliitta 10 studded SUV tires, which provide superior grip on sheer ice, making the car feel exceptionally stable and controllable, almost like driving on pavement. While the studded tires offer a clear advantage in extreme icy conditions, the reviewer notes their drawbacks, including legality in some regions and increased noise. The video emphasizes the critical importance of winter tires for safety, particularly in environments like Colorado where all-season tires are deemed insufficient. The reviewer expresses a strong preference for dedicated winter tires, especially studded ones for the most severe conditions, and praises Nokian's EV-specific tire technology designed for instant torque and vehicle weight. less

Magna Has Developed Some Incredible EV Powertrain Tech! Off-Road Deep Dive

This video provides an in-depth look at Magna's advanced electric powertrain technologies, showcased through off-road demonstrations of their Ete... morelligentForce pickup (based on a GMC Sierra) and an electric-swapped Jeep Gladiator. The reviewer highlights Magna's significant engineering efforts in electrification, particularly their development of solid e-beam axles with integrated electric motors. Key features discussed include the dual permanent magnet motor system, an automatic front axle disconnect for efficiency, and advanced motor control for precise low-speed crawling. The Jeep Gladiator's "intelligent low range" mode, which mimics traditional low-range gearing through software, is praised for its exceptional control and smooth power delivery, even surpassing the EtelligentForce in refinement. While both vehicles impress with their off-road capability and quiet operation, the Gladiator's powertrain integration is noted as a step forward. Magna's commitment to developing sustainable solutions, including reducing reliance on rare earth magnets, is also mentioned. less

I Bought This Electric Mercedes For Under $3,000! Full Tour, Problems, & My First Drive

Kyle has acquired a 2014 Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive for an astonishingly low price of under $3,000, continuing his trend of purchasing budge... moret EVs. The car, which utilizes Tesla Model S running gear, presents a unique proposition, though it arrived with a non-charging issue, mirroring a problem his previous Nissan Leaf had. The reviewer highlights the car's spacious interior, comfortable seating, and surprisingly peppy performance, noting its quick acceleration and even the ability to perform burnouts. However, the vehicle is plagued by numerous warning lights, including a persistent 'visit workshop' message, and potential issues with the 12-volt system and motor bearings. The immediate plan is to transport the car to QC Charge for diagnosis and repair, particularly focusing on the charging system. While the low purchase price is a major draw, the potential for significant repair costs and limited aftermarket support for this rare model are considerable concerns for future ownership. less

I Take You On A Full Tour Of The 2023 Los Angeles Auto Show

This video offers a comprehensive tour of the 2023 Los Angeles Auto Show, highlighting a wide array of electric vehicles and automotive innovations. T... morehe hosts provide candid impressions of new models like the Lucid Gravity, Kia EV9, and Hyundai Ioniq 5N, discussing their design, technology, and market potential. While praising the Lucid Air's range and performance, they note software glitches. The Kia EV9 is anticipated as a strong family hauler, and the Hyundai Ioniq 5N is highlighted for its performance potential. The review touches on various other vehicles, including the Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally and Silverado EV, offering a broad overview of the current EV landscape and future concepts. The hosts express enthusiasm for new tech but also acknowledge the practicalities and limitations of current offerings, providing a balanced perspective for EV enthusiasts. less

My First Look At The Lucid Gravity! The Electric SUV With Impressive Range, Space, & Luxury

The Lucid Gravity SUV has made a striking debut at the LA Auto Show, impressing with its design, spaciousness, and a projected range of over 440 miles... more. The vehicle is presented as a direct competitor to the Tesla Model X and Rivian R1S, offering comparable or superior interior space and a premium luxury feel. Key highlights include an advanced 34-inch 6K OLED display with a redesigned, more intuitive UI/UX, optional air suspension, and a powerful dual-motor AWD system capable of 0-60 mph in 3.4 seconds. The interior boasts high-quality materials and flexible seating configurations, including an optional seven-seat layout. A significant focus is placed on the vehicle's charging capabilities, with Lucid committing to the North American Charging Standard (NACS) for Supercharger access in 2025, and a 120 kWh battery pack supporting over 900-volt architecture. While the initial impressions are overwhelmingly positive, the review notes that specific battery pack sizes for different trims and final pricing details are still to be confirmed. The reviewer expresses strong anticipation for real-world testing, including range and charging performance. less

First Charge! Mercedes Public Charging Network Opens With Incredible Site - Full Tour, Specs, + Lounge

Mercedes-Benz has officially opened its first public charging network hub in Atlanta, Georgia, marking a significant step in the company's commit... morement to electrification. The facility offers a premium charging experience, featuring 400kW dispensers capable of delivering high-speed charging for all EV drivers, not just Mercedes customers. A standout feature is the integrated lounge, providing a comfortable space with amenities like coffee and snacks, accessible to everyone. The network utilizes ChargePoint's Express Plus hardware, with a focus on reliability and performance. Mercedes-Benz EQ owners receive benefits such as free charging for two years (model year 2024) or six months (current owners), and a unique reservation system integrated into the vehicle's navigation. While the reservation system aims to enhance convenience, the reviewer notes potential areas for improvement in user messaging. The reviewer highlights the impressive infrastructure, including pull-through stalls for larger vehicles like the Sprinter, and the overall high-quality design, positioning it as a new benchmark for the industry. less

Awesome New Chargers In America! Alpitronic HYC400 & ABB Terra 360 Installed At Circle K Test Site

This video provides an in-depth look at two significant new DC fast charging installations in the US: the Alpitronic HYC400 and the ABB Terra 360 at a... more Circle K test site in Rock Hill, South Carolina. The reviewer, Kyle, expresses immense enthusiasm for this new generation of high-power charging hardware, particularly praising the Alpitronic HYC400 for its quiet operation, compact all-in-one design, and impressive power output, calling it his "favorite charger on the planet." He highlights its silicon carbide rectifiers for high efficiency and notes its potential for future cable upgrades to 600 amps. While the Alpitronic unit currently lacks a payment terminal, it's expected soon. The ABB Terra 365 is also reviewed, with the reviewer noting its loudness compared to the Alpitronic and some implementation issues with its cable power delivery, specifically an arbitrary 10-minute boost window before derating. Despite these minor criticisms, the video concludes that 2024 will be a pivotal year for EV charging in the US with the rollout of new hardware and the adoption of NACS, emphasizing the importance of these high-power, reliable chargers for the EV ecosystem. less

The Volkswagen ID.7 Is A Fantastic Electric Sedan! Way More Car Than The Numbers On Paper Suggest

The Volkswagen ID.7 is presented as a compelling flagship electric sedan, offering a premium experience that aims to bridge the gap between mainstream... more and luxury segments. Reviewers highlight its comfortable ride, especially with the new dynamic chassis control, and the impressive Ergo active seats featuring heating, cooling, and massage functions. The improved infotainment system, with its responsive 15-inch screen, is a significant upgrade from previous ID models. While not a performance-focused vehicle, its power is deemed sufficient for daily driving and grand touring. Charging performance is adequate, though not class-leading, with a peak of around 115 kW observed. Key criticisms include the lack of one-pedal driving and the unconventional window switch. Despite these points, the ID.7 is praised for its spacious interior, excellent rear passenger room, and overall refined driving dynamics, making it a strong contender for those seeking a comfortable and well-equipped electric sedan, even if the wagon variant is not coming to the US. less

Polestar 4 Full Tour & First Ride! Diving Into Specs, Rear Window, Software, & More

This video provides a comprehensive tour of the Polestar 4, highlighting its unique design elements and specifications. The reviewer focuses on the ve... morehicle's exterior and interior features, with a particular emphasis on the controversial absence of a traditional rear window, replaced by a digital display. While the video doesn't delve into driving dynamics or performance metrics due to it being a pre-production model, it effectively showcases the Polestar 4's distinctive approach to the electric SUV market, positioning it as a stylish and technologically advanced option. The review acknowledges the innovative aspects while leaving the ultimate verdict on practicality and user experience pending further testing. less

I Drive The Electric Rolls Royce Spectre For The First Time! Testing Charging, Efficiency, & Comfort

The Rolls-Royce Spectre represents a significant and natural evolution for the brand, seamlessly transitioning to an electric powertrain that enhances... more its signature quiet luxury. The reviewer highlights the Spectre's unparalleled serenity and comfort, surpassing even the highly-rated BMW i7, making it a class apart. While the starting price is substantial, the average build cost pushes closer to $600,000, with bespoke options reaching even higher. The Spectre utilizes an all-aluminum chassis and a 102 kWh battery, offering a respectable 266 miles of EPA range, though the reviewer notes range is less critical for the target demographic. Performance is described as 'spritely' and 'plenty,' with instant torque and a smooth, powerful acceleration that feels refined rather than aggressive. The reviewer praises the advanced driver assistance systems, the bespoke 'Spirit' operating system (based on BMW's iDrive), and the luxurious interior, particularly the Starlight door panels. Criticisms are minor, including the lack of a four-door option and the motorized doors' potentially over-eager opening mechanism. Overall, the Spectre is lauded as a unique, no-compromise vehicle that redefines electric luxury. less

I've Never Seen A Boutique DCFC Location Like This! Franklin's Charging Little Rock Full Tour

This video provides an in-depth tour of Franklin's Charging, a unique "boutique" DC fast charging hub in Little Rock, Arkansas. The rev... moreiewer highlights the innovative approach, combining EV charging with vertical farming, an art studio, and a coffee shop, all operated by a family and local community. While the charging hardware includes ChargePoint CPE 250s and a FreeWire Boost 200, the review notes limitations with both, particularly the ChargePoint's 200A max output and the FreeWire's inconsistent performance and lower-than-expected output. The owner, JT Franklin, discusses the business case for charging, the challenges of demand charges, and the potential for profitability through diverse revenue streams. The reviewer praises the ingenuity and community focus of the venture, despite the technical quirks of the charging equipment, and encourages viewers to visit and support this pioneering charging location. less

Diving Into The World Of Ev Conversions! These Are The Big Players, Builds, Kits, & More In 2023

This video provides an in-depth look at the burgeoning EV conversion industry, showcased at SEMA 2023. The hosts highlight the rapid growth and increa... moresing accessibility of converting classic and modern vehicles to electric power. Key takeaways include the emergence of complete, bolt-on systems that simplify the conversion process, reducing build times from years to weeks or even days. Major players like Legacy EV and Hypercraft are identified as leading distributors and system providers. The review touches upon the diverse range of builds, from high-end custom projects like electric Ferraris and Mercedes 300SLs to more accessible kits for vehicles like Cobras and classic Minis. Safety and standardization are emphasized as critical for the industry's continued growth and acceptance, with mandatory training becoming more prevalent. While the cost of conversions remains significant, often in the $50k-$60k range, the trend towards easier integration, improved performance, and the potential for repurposing existing platforms is clear. The video suggests a bright future with increasing OEM involvement and a growing demand for skilled technicians. less

I Ride The Honda Motocompacto For The First Time! The Perfect Companion To Your EV

The Honda Motocompacto is presented as an adorable and practical first/last mile solution, designed to complement EVs. The reviewer highlights its lig... morehtweight (41 lbs) and foldable design, a significant improvement over its heavier, gas-powered predecessor, the Moto Compo. Key features include a 490W peak hub motor, a 15 mph top speed, and an estimated 12-mile range from its 6.8 Ah battery, rechargeable in 3.5 hours. While praised for its clever packaging, linear throttle modulation, and Honda's engineering quality, the reviewer notes drawbacks such as a lack of suspension leading to a harsh ride, a non-cushy seat, and the absence of a removable battery. The accompanying app, still under development, promises future features like a kill switch. Despite not being class-leading in specs, its US design and Honda branding are seen as significant advantages, making it a desirable, albeit niche, product. less

I Drive The New Tesla Model 3 Refresh For The First Time! Small Updates Make For A Totally New Car

The reviewer finds the Tesla Model 3 'Highland' refresh to be a significant upgrade, feeling like an entirely different car from its predece... moressor. Key improvements highlighted include a dramatically quieter cabin, a more comfortable and refined suspension that excels at soaking up bumps on the highway, and a much-improved interior with better seats and a new steering wheel. The reviewer praises the car's premium feel and overall quality, noting it's a substantial step up for daily driving and highway cruising. While the softer suspension is a major benefit for comfort, it's noted as a potential drawback for performance driving, feeling 'nervous' and 'floaty' in high-speed corners, though this is considered a niche use case. The reviewer concludes that for 99% of owners, this refreshed Model 3 is a superior, more mature vehicle, offering excellent value and efficiency, making it a compelling choice even over higher trims or previous generations. less

I Charge On A Version 4 Tesla Supercharger For The First Time! Full Tour Of New Post & V3 Chargers

The reviewer provides a first look at Tesla's new V4 Supercharger dispensers in the Netherlands, highlighting key upgrades and initial impression... mores. The V4 dispensers feature significantly longer, immersion-cooled cables (rated up to 1000 amps) designed to accommodate a wider range of EVs, including those with charge ports on the opposite side of traditional Teslas, effectively addressing 'cable gate'. The reviewer notes the improved cable handling and the potential for higher power output in the future, especially with the 1000-volt capability. However, the V4 dispensers are criticized for being less aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly than the V3 models, with initial site functionality issues and non-working payment terminals observed. While the V4 dispenser itself is advanced, the actual charging speed is still limited by the existing V3 cabinets, meaning no immediate charging power increase over V3 is realized. The reviewer anticipates future upgrades to the cabinets to unlock the full potential of the V4 dispensers, particularly for high-voltage charging needed for next-gen EVs. less

Please Make Every Highway EV Charging Hub Like This!

This video showcases an impressive new EV charging hub located off the highway near Schliez, Germany, which the reviewer, Kyle, hails as potentially t... morehe best off-highway charging hub design he's encountered. The site, a collaboration between Tesla and EnBW, features 40 Tesla Superchargers (V3) and 16 additional 300 kW Alpitronic chargers, with provisions for future expansion. Kyle praises the strategic location on cheap, rural land, allowing for the construction of extensive amenities like a charging lounge (currently under construction) and ample charging stalls. He highlights the thoughtful design, including dual power feeds and the ability for chargers to share power, as well as the inclusion of a CHAdeMO and a 22 kW AC port for non-CCS vehicles. While acknowledging the site is still under construction and not yet widely known, Kyle believes such large-scale, well-equipped hubs are crucial for widespread EV adoption and sets a new standard for charging infrastructure, suggesting similar concepts are needed globally, including in the US. less

Hello Again From Germany! Renting An Electric BMW iX From Sixt & Covering Some Distance

The reviewer, Kyle, explores the electric rental car experience in Germany by renting a fully-specced BMW iX M60 from Sixt. He highlights the convenie... morence of the rental process and the car's impressive performance, particularly its stability and quietness at high Autobahn speeds, reaching up to 160 mph. The reviewer praises the advanced driver assistance systems, the luxurious Bowers & Wilkins sound system, and the vehicle's efficiency on the highway, noting an average of 2 miles per kWh even when driven hard. However, he observes a noticeable drivetrain power limit at high speeds, which he finds surprising for an M-badged vehicle, though it still allows for very high cruising speeds. The charging experience was mixed, with a positive encounter at a Tesla Supercharger after an initial issue with an El-loaded charger. Overall, Kyle is impressed with the iX M60 as a rental option for covering long distances in Germany, despite the minor power limitation. less

Update On Kyle's Cheap Nissan Leaf! Here's How It's Going After Fixing The AC Charger

This video provides an update on Kyle's 2012 Nissan Leaf, focusing on the recent repair of its AC charger and its ongoing utility as an affordabl... moree electric vehicle. The reviewer highlights the significant improvement in usability now that the onboard charger is functional, allowing for convenient home charging and effectively eliminating range anxiety for typical city errands. Despite its age, cosmetic damage (including a recent front-end ding), and limited 50-mile real-world range, the Leaf is praised for its practicality, low cost of ownership (purchased for $3,750), and ease of parking. The driving experience is described as smooth and quiet, offering a retro feel with features like a CD player and a functional, albeit dated, navigation system. The lack of one-pedal driving is noted as a departure from modern EVs but is seen as more akin to a traditional car, making it a good entry point for new EV adopters or as a second vehicle. The reviewer concludes that for its price and intended use as a city car, the Leaf remains a compelling option, especially with the potential for used EV tax credits, though its limited charging capabilities and range make it unsuitable for road trips. less

These Insane DC Fast Charging Hubs In New York City Could Set The Standard For Urban EV Charging

This video explores Revel's DC fast charging hubs in Brooklyn, NYC, highlighting their ambitious partnership with Tritium to provide urban EV cha... morerging solutions. The reviewer is impressed by the sheer scale of the operation, particularly the vast number of Teslas being charged, which form the backbone of Revel's ride-sharing fleet. While the first hub, located in a parking garage, experienced some technical difficulties with offline chargers and payment terminal issues, the reviewer found the charging process functional once initiated, noting a charge rate of around 75 KW and a cost of $0.49/kWh plus tax. The second hub, an outdoor setup, offered a smoother experience with all chargers operational and a similar pricing structure. A key advantage noted for both hubs is free parking, making them a more attractive option than some public chargers that also require parking fees. The reviewer praises the infrastructure's design and the concept of centralized fast charging for urban environments, while also acknowledging the need for a mix of charging solutions. Despite some initial hiccups, the overall impression is positive, showcasing a significant step forward in urban EV charging accessibility. less

I Deep Froze My Tesla And Immediately Plugged It Into A Supercharger To See What Happens

First Kandi K27 EV Drive - The Cheapest New Car In The USA!

You Won't Believe How Much It Costs To Charge The Hummer EV!

Towing With An Electric Truck - Is It Cheaper Than Gas? Rivian R1T vs Ford F-150 PowerBoost

They Don't Work In The Cold...

Tesla Model Y Refresh Full Tour! My First Look At New Juniper Changes

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