Out of Spec Reviews

Tesla Full Self-Driving v14 Drive! Big Improvements Over The Last Few Months

The latest Tesla Full Self-Driving (FSD) V14.1.4 update shows significant improvements in capability, particularly in its ability to navigate complex ... moreurban environments and highway driving. The new "Mad Max" mode allows for more aggressive acceleration and higher speeds, addressing previous limitations on highway passing and lane changes. The system's ability to handle pedestrian interactions and complex intersections has also improved, though it can still exhibit "stuttering" as it makes real-time decisions. Parking, especially parallel parking, remains a weak point, often leaving the vehicle too far from the curb. While the "sloth" and "mad max" driver profiles offer more distinct driving experiences, the removal of a maximum speed cap is a point of concern for some. Despite minor quirks like occasional "brake stabbing" and questionable parking, the overall impression is that V14 represents a substantial leap forward, making the car more capable and smoother, especially on hardware 4 vehicles. The reviewer highlights that while not perfect, the technology is impressive and continues to evolve rapidly, outperforming many competitors in real-world testing. less

Electric Boating Is On The Rise! Industry Update

This video provides an insightful update on the burgeoning electric boat industry, featuring an engaging discussion with Eric from Electrified Marina.... more The hosts highlight the immediate torque and quiet operation of electric boats, comparing the experience favorably to electric cars. A key takeaway is that while electric boats are not yet for every application (e.g., extreme offshore use or high-speed long-distance travel), they are an excellent fit for the average recreational boater who primarily engages in day trips and can utilize overnight dockside charging. The discussion delves into the challenges of industry adoption, particularly the resistance from traditional marinas and the need for consumer education. The video showcases a Scout 21T with a Flux Marine electric powertrain, detailing its 84 kWh battery capacity and performance metrics, including a range of 30-40 miles at moderate speeds. The conversation also touches upon charging infrastructure, retrofitting options, and the premium pricing of electric boats compared to their gasoline counterparts, noting a 20-30% increase. Overall, the review emphasizes the growing viability and appeal of electric boats, driven by lower maintenance and environmental benefits, positioning them as a compelling option for early adopters and first-time boat owners. less

Stress Testing EV Components Before They Go Into Production! Eaton’s E-Mobility Lab Tour

This video offers an in-depth look into Eaton's E-Mobility Lab in Marshall, Michigan, showcasing the rigorous stress testing and validation proce... moresses for electric vehicle components before they reach production. The tour highlights a wide array of testing equipment and methodologies, from environmental chambers and vibration systems to specialized testers for fuses, inverters, DC/DC converters, and power distribution units. The review emphasizes Eaton's core expertise in circuit protection and power distribution, introducing innovative products like the "Brake Tour" and the "Battery Configuration Switch" designed for 800V architectures. It also touches upon advanced connection technologies and the crucial role of material analysis and machine shops in prototyping and failure analysis. While the video delves deeply into the technical aspects of component testing, it also acknowledges Eaton's significant contributions to combustion engine components, providing a comprehensive view of their capabilities across the automotive spectrum. The production quality is high, offering a detailed, behind-the-scenes look at a critical, yet often unseen, aspect of vehicle development. less

Xiaomi Is Making The Hottest EVs On Sale! Yu7 SUV & Su7 Sedan Comparison

This video provides a detailed comparison between the Xiaomi SU7 sedan and the YU7 SUV, focusing on their base models. The reviewer highlights the SU7... more as the best-driving Chinese car they've ever experienced, praising its sporty handling, blend of comfort and performance, and competitive pricing starting around $30,000. While acknowledging a slight rear slide in certain conditions, the reviewer is highly impressed with its driver-focused nature. The YU7, though heavier due to a larger battery, is noted for its superior comfort, smoother ride, and more luxurious interior appointments, including features like reclining rear seats and a fridge, even in the base trim. It's described as a better grand tourer than the SU7. Both vehicles are lauded for their EV-native design, spaciousness, and premium feel, with the YU7's cockpit and screen integration being particularly impressive. The reviewer notes the YU7's 800-volt architecture for faster charging compared to the SU7's 400-volt system. Ultimately, both cars are highly recommended as excellent EVs, offering a compelling package of features and performance at their respective price points, with the reviewer expressing strong overall satisfaction with Xiaomi's offerings. less

I Drive A Battle Motors Electric Truck! Cascadia Motor, Eaton Transmission - Up & Down Steep Grades

This video offers a comprehensive first drive of the Battle Motors electric truck, specifically highlighting its performance on steep grades and its i... morentegration with Eaton's four-speed transmission. The reviewer praises the truck's impressive torque, smooth acceleration, and the seamless shifting provided by the Eaton transmission, noting its effectiveness even under heavy load (52,800 lbs). The ease of driving, particularly at low speeds and on inclines, is a significant positive. However, the interior is described as "Spartan" and "basic," lacking the refinement seen in competitors like the Tesla Semi. While the drivetrain and overall capability are highly impressive, the cab's finish could be improved. The video also touches upon the vehicle's charging capabilities and the potential for regen, though full functionality of the latter was not confirmed during the drive. Overall, it's a strong showing for the Battle Motors truck's powertrain, with room for improvement in cabin amenities. less

Brand New Kempower Truck & EV Charging Just Went Crazy: 1200kW MCS & 700A CCS

This video provides an in-depth look at Kempower's new truck charging site in Norway, showcasing their latest hardware, including 1200kW MCS and ... more700A CCS2 capabilities. The reviewer highlights the impressive cable management and the robust, thick cables designed for high amperage. A key takeaway is the standardization of the MCS connector globally, a significant advantage over the fragmented personal car charging standards. The site features two 600kW cabinets, totaling 1.2MW, with power dynamically distributed. The reviewer praises Kempower's modularity, allowing for upgrades and a mix-and-match approach with existing chargers. The video also touches on the practicalities of electric truck charging, emphasizing zero downtime due to integration with mandated rest periods and the cost-effectiveness of electric fleets, particularly in Nordic countries. The reviewer expresses excitement for the potential of these high-power CCS2 cables for passenger EVs. less

Lucid Air Sapphire Reactions! 1,234 Horsepower Passenger Experience

The Lucid Air Sapphire is showcased as an extreme performance electric sedan, capable of supercar-level acceleration and track performance. Reviewers ... morehighlight its "insane" 1,234 horsepower tri-motor setup and advanced torque vectoring as key strengths, delivering "catty" and instantaneous responses. The car's ability to handle track conditions, particularly with the optional Pirelli P Zero Trofeo RS tires, is praised for its immense grip, transforming the driving experience. However, a significant drawback identified is the battery's thermal management; while the motors remain cool, the battery pack struggles with sustained high-performance driving, leading to power limitations. Despite this, the Sapphire is deemed an "incredible daily driver" offering luxury, space, and comfort, including features like massaging seats. The consensus is that while it excels as a high-performance daily, its track endurance is limited by battery thermals, suggesting a need for a more power-focused battery option for dedicated track use. less

Porsche Cayenne EV Prototype Range Drive! 70-MPH Highway Cruising Shows Good Efficiency

This video provides an early look at the Porsche Cayenne EV prototype, focusing on a real-world 70 mph highway range test. The reviewer was highly imp... moreressed with the vehicle's road-tripping capabilities, noting its quiet and comfortable ride, and excellent stability. Despite not being a full range test, the drive indicated a real-world highway range exceeding 300 miles, with projections suggesting over 350 miles on a full charge. The reviewer highlighted the impressive efficiency, achieving over 3.2 miles per kWh with a 108 kWh usable battery, and praised the fast-charging capabilities, with the car capable of pulling around 400 kW. Positives include the well-refined driving dynamics, comfortable interior, and a significantly improved route planner compared to previous Porsche EVs. The reviewer also noted that the optional off-road design pack had a negligible impact on range, making it a viable aesthetic choice. The vehicle is described as a well-sorted and impressive package, even in its prototype stage, suggesting a strong contender for long-distance travel. less

The Key to Software Defined Vehicles! Texas Instruments' Remote Control Edge

This video provides an in-depth look at Texas Instruments' Remote Control Edge (RCE) technology, a key enabler for the future of Software Defined... more Vehicles (SDVs). The core concept of RCE is to centralize vehicle software control, moving intelligence away from individual components to a central ECU. This approach simplifies manufacturing, enables rapid over-the-air (OTA) updates, and reduces complexity and wiring harnesses. The presenters highlight how RCE can control various vehicle functions, from simple components like fans and seat heaters to more complex systems like headlights (enabling matrix functionality) and window regulators. A significant benefit discussed is the reduction in wiring, potentially from dozens of wires down to just a few, leading to substantial cost and weight savings for automakers. The video showcases a practical demonstration of RCE using a fan, illustrating the translation of commands from a central controller to local actuators via TI's new CAN FD Light bridge device. While the technology is still emerging, RCE promises to streamline vehicle development and enhance the ownership experience through improved software manageability and feature updates. less

The Bolt Is Back! My First Look & Full Tour - Chevy Nailed This Affordable EV

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt marks a significant return for the affordable EV, aiming to capture a mainstream audience with a compelling price point starti... moreng under $30,000, including destination. Key improvements highlighted include a faster peak charging rate of 150 kW (achieving 10-80% in 26 minutes) and the integration of native NACS with Tesla Supercharger compatibility in the route planner. The interior receives a substantial upgrade with Google Built-in, offering a more modern and connected infotainment experience, along with the return of a state-of-charge indicator on the dash. While the beloved regen paddle is gone, replaced by an integrated system with one-pedal driving in normal and high modes, the overall package is praised for its value. The optional Super Cruise is noted as a significant upgrade, but must be optioned at purchase. The reviewer expresses strong optimism for the Bolt's sales potential, particularly given the current market landscape. less

Tesla Model Y Standard Full Review! Just Get The Base Model 3

The Tesla Model Y Standard trim, reviewed here in its base configuration, aims to be the most affordable Model Y. While it successfully lowers the pri... morece point by approximately $5,000 compared to the 'Premium' (formerly standard) model, this comes at the cost of several feature deletions. Notably, the removal of ventilated seats, manual steering wheel adjustment, a HEPA filter, and a reduction in speaker count (from 15 to 7) are significant. The reviewer highlights the new textile interior, derived from the Tesla Semi, as a positive, along with the manually adjustable steering rack and the improved front trunk closure mechanism. However, the relocation of seat controls to the touchscreen is a major point of contention, deemed an unnecessary inconvenience. The suspension tuning is noted as being softer and more comfortable in the front, but the rear remains bouncy, a long-standing issue. Visually, the revised front and rear designs are considered an improvement by the reviewers. Despite the cost-cutting measures, the vehicle retains its core efficiency and autonomy hardware. The reviewer suggests that while this 'Standard' Model Y is a viable option for those needing a Model Y, the concurrently launched Model 3 Standard might be the more compelling choice for value. less

New Tesla Model 3 Standard Is The Cheapest Tesla You Can Buy! Full Tour - Tech, Interior, & Exterior

The new Tesla Model 3 Standard is presented as the most affordable Tesla available, significantly reducing the price by removing premium features and ... moreslightly decreasing battery capacity. The reviewer highlights that despite the cost-saving measures, the car retains a high level of perceived quality and essential Tesla features, making it an exceptional value proposition. Key omissions include ventilated seats and power-adjustable steering columns, with seat adjustments now handled via software. A major point of contention is the absence of basic lane centering functionality, which is considered a significant drawback for a car in this segment, despite the presence of all necessary hardware. The reviewer praises the retention of the glass roof, adaptive driving beams, and the overall software experience, concluding that this trim offers an incredible amount of car for the money, potentially making it the best Model 3 variant to buy for most consumers, provided the lane centering issue is addressed by Tesla. less

New Tesla Model Y Performance Is A Huge Upgrade! My First Drive & Full Tour (Euro Spec)

The reviewer compares the new Euro-spec Tesla Model Y Performance against its predecessor, highlighting significant upgrades. Key improvements include... more a larger usable battery (82 kWh vs 79 kWh), a more aggressive exterior design differentiating it from the Long Range variant with new bumpers and spoiler, and updated interior features like carbon fiber trims and exclusive performance seats with thigh support. The reviewer praises the new seats for their comfort and bolstering. Driving dynamics have also been enhanced with a lighter steering wheel, a stiffer brake pedal due to the new brake-by-wire system, and a more compliant suspension that offers better comfort without sacrificing sportiness. While the new model doesn't immediately feel drastically faster, the reviewer notes improvements in higher speeds and overall driving feel. A notable omission is the lack of 'Track Mode' at launch, though it's expected via an update. The reviewer also points out the new model's electronic rear seats that fold more conveniently and a slightly lower loading height for the rear cargo area. Overall, the new Model Y Performance is deemed a substantial upgrade, offering a more refined and comfortable driving experience while retaining its fun-to-drive character. less

Eaton & ChargePoint Partner On High Power DCFC, Level 2, & Microgrid Solutions

This video provides an in-depth look at Eaton's expanding role in the EV charging ecosystem, highlighting key partnerships and technological adva... morencements. The review emphasizes Eaton's collaboration with ChargePoint, showcasing both AC and DC fast charging solutions, including a groundbreaking 600kW all-in-one unit. A significant portion is dedicated to Eaton's home energy management solutions, featuring smart breakers and the AbleEdge system, which allow for seamless integration of solar, battery storage, and EV charging. The reviewer praises Eaton's comprehensive approach, from hardware to software, and their commitment to simplifying complex energy management for consumers and businesses. The video also touches upon advanced microgrid solutions and battery storage systems, positioning Eaton as a leader in the energy transition. less

Porsche Cayenne EV Full Technical Deep Dive: Battery, Charging, Motors, Chassis, & More

Porsche's new all-electric Cayenne (E4) makes a strong debut, impressing with its advanced technology and dynamic performance. The vehicle is bui... morelt on an extended PPE platform, offering a substantial interior with ample space, particularly in the rear, and a premium feel with high-quality materials and configurable options. Key technological highlights include an 11 kW wireless charging system, which offers remarkable convenience, and an 800V architecture enabling ultra-fast DC charging (over 400 kW) and significant regenerative braking (600 kW). The reviewer praises the active suspension for its ability to provide a stiff, sporty ride on track while maintaining off-road capability. Performance is exceptional, with the top-tier Turbo model delivering over 1000 PS and impressive towing capacity. Downsides are minimal, with the reviewer noting the US market's AC charging limitation to the passenger side or wireless charging, and a slight awkwardness in the air vent integration. Overall, the E4 Cayenne is presented as a highly capable and technologically advanced electric SUV that pushes boundaries. less

Walmart Is Building An EV Charging Network At An Alarmingly Fast Rate! My First Charge

Walmart is rapidly expanding its DC fast-charging network across the United States, aiming to blanket the country with charging infrastructure. The vi... moredeo highlights the initial charging experience at a new Walmart Supercharger location in Plano, Texas, utilizing Alpitronic Hypercharger 400 units capable of 400 kW. While the hardware appears robust and the pricing at this location is deemed reasonable at 42 cents per kWh, the activation process is heavily criticized. Requiring users to download the Walmart app, create an account, and input payment details is described as a frustrating and inconvenient experience, especially compared to simpler credit card reader options. The site layout also presents minor issues, including a lack of trash cans and awkward cable management, particularly for vehicles that back into charging stalls. Despite these activation and layout drawbacks, the underlying infrastructure, including a substantial 2500 KVA transformer, suggests a well-planned and future-proofed network. The sheer scale of planned and under-construction sites, particularly in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, indicates Walmart's serious commitment to becoming a major player in EV charging, potentially serving both corridor travel and urban residents without home charging access. less

Kempower DC Fast Charging Stations Are Everywhere In Norway!

This video provides an in-depth look at Kempower's DC fast charging infrastructure in Norway, highlighting its prevalence and user-centric design... more. The reviewer praises Kempower's reliable hardware, excellent cable management, and innovative features like QR code session transfer, which significantly enhances user experience, especially for rental cars. The modular design, with central power cabinets distributing power to numerous satellites, is noted as a key advantage for efficient power allocation. While the video showcases various charging sites, from highway exits to urban centers, it emphasizes the practical benefits for everyday EV users in Norway, where EV adoption is exceptionally high. The reviewer's personal anecdotes, tracing back to early DC fast charging experiences, add a layer of authenticity. Overall, Kempower's solutions are presented as a robust and user-friendly backbone for Norway's booming EV market. less

Range Rover Go Home! First Drive Zeekr 9X - Insane Luxury, Powertrain, Battery, Tech, & Innovation

The Zeekr 9X is presented as an "insane luxury" plug-in hybrid SUV that aims to blend electric-first engineering with the flexibility of a g... moreasoline engine. Reviewers highlight its exceptionally comfortable and feature-rich interior, particularly praising the "zero gravity" seats with advanced massaging functions, a large OLED screen, and a unique detachable control phone. The vehicle's powertrain is noted for its impressive power output, with options exceeding 1,000 kW, and a massive 70 kWh battery, making it the largest in its class. Charging capabilities are also a standout, with support for 6C charging, far exceeding typical PHEV standards. However, the review points out software optimization issues leading to lag, a less-than-ideal driver assistance system (H7), and the noticeable, albeit isolated, sound of the gasoline engine when it engages, which detracts slightly from the otherwise premium EV-like driving experience. The optional running boards are also criticized for being impractical. Despite these compromises, the 9X is lauded as the "absolute best plug-in hybrid or hybrid" driven, offering a no-compromise luxury experience that benchmarks against high-end vehicles. less

First Ride In Zoox! Autonomous Ride Share With Purpose-Built Electric Carriages

The Zoox autonomous ride-share vehicle offers a unique and futuristic transportation experience, particularly noted for its purpose-built design and a... morepproachable aesthetic. Reviewers were impressed by its spacious, comfortable interior, advanced HVAC system with individual climate control, and the quiet, smooth ride, attributing much of this to its sophisticated hydraulic suspension. The vehicle's ability to operate bidirectionally and its comprehensive sensor suite were highlighted as key technological advancements. However, the initial software exhibited some jerky throttle inputs, reminiscent of a human driver, and a less refined experience compared to Tesla's RoboTaxi. Build quality concerns were noted on a demo unit, with visible seam issues. A significant drawback was the lack of an easily accessible interior door-open button, creating a slight feeling of being trapped. Despite these early-stage issues, the Zoox presents a compelling vision for autonomous mobility, prioritizing rider experience and safety, especially by eliminating the need for a human driver. less

I Drive The NIO Firefly Cheap EV Up A Mountain! The Best Small Electric Car In Europe

The NIO Firefly is presented as a compelling, affordable electric hatchback for the European market, starting at €24,000 in Norway. The reviewer highl... moreights its surprisingly premium interior feel for the price, snappy and intuitive software, and enjoyable driving dynamics, particularly praising the rear-wheel drive setup and the inclusion of one-pedal driving, which is absent in some competitors. The car's performance on a challenging mountain climb is a key test, where it ultimately succeeds despite significant struggle, proving its capability beyond city commuting, contrary to some marketing. However, the review notes several drawbacks: the driver assistance system is deemed unreliable, exhibiting strange swerving behavior and phantom braking. Charging port issues, including difficulty in disconnecting the cable, are also a recurring annoyance. While the car boasts good range and charging speeds (achieving the advertised 10-80% in 29 minutes), the maximum charging rate of 89 kW falls short of the advertised 100 kW. The reviewer also found the phone key's auto-locking feature and the audible alerts for unlocked doors to be irritating. Despite these issues, the Firefly is lauded for its adventurous spirit and value proposition, especially when considering the optional comfort trim's added features for a modest price increase. less

My First Look At The Xiaomi YU7! The Car Everyone Should Be Talking About

The Xiaomi YU7 is presented as a compelling new entrant in the EV market, generating significant excitement, particularly in China, with over 200,000 ... moreorders in its first 10 minutes. The vehicle is positioned as a mainstream electric SUV, comparable in size to the Tesla Model Y, but with a more bespoke approach and aggressive pricing around $40,000 USD. Reviewers highlight its impressive exterior design, particularly the color options and McLaren-style headlights, and a luxurious interior that heavily benchmarks German luxury brands like Porsche, featuring high-quality materials and a sophisticated aesthetic. The YU7 Max trim boasts a dual-motor AWD setup producing 681 horsepower, a 101.7 kWh NMC battery with 5C charging capability, and a claimed CLTC range of 472 miles (estimated around 320 miles EPA). Key strengths noted are the advanced infotainment system that integrates with Xiaomi's ecosystem, a customizable head-up display, and a well-balanced powertrain with a rear-biased setup. However, concerns are raised about real-world efficiency, with estimates suggesting it will be significantly lower than the optimistic CLTC figures, and potential issues with driver assistance systems outside of China. The lack of a rear wiper is also mentioned as a minor drawback. Overall, the YU7 is lauded as a well-rounded package that balances technology, design, and performance at an exceptional value, making it a car that 'everyone should be talking about'. less

The Insane Amg Gt Xx Charges At 1,041kw! How Mercedes Broke Every Long Distance Ev Record

Mercedes-AMG has pushed the boundaries of EV endurance and charging with their AMG GT XX prototype at the Nardo ring. The vehicle achieved remarkable ... morefeats, including breaking long-distance records by covering over 40,000 km (25,000 miles) and exceeding the 24-hour record by 1,500 km. A standout achievement was the megawatt-level charging, with the car sustaining 1,041 kW for over two and a half minutes via a single CCS connector, demonstrating the potential of immersion-cooled batteries and advanced thermal management systems. While the car itself is a concept, Mercedes confirms that the core drive units and battery cells/modules will be production-ready next year. The video highlights Mercedes' commitment to developing a robust EV ecosystem, including their own charging network, which is being upgraded to support these high-power charging capabilities. The focus has shifted from range anxiety to charging speed and performance consistency, a transition this record run powerfully illustrates. less

My First Look At The Mercedes GLC Electric! Incredible Specs In The Shadow Of BMW iX3

The Mercedes GLC Electric presents a compelling package, particularly for those seeking a practical electric SUV with strong brand appeal. The reviewe... morer highlights its comfortable ride, thanks to optional air suspension and rear-axle steering, and praises its efficient thermal management system contributing to a usable front trunk. The towing capacity of 2.4 tons is also noted as a significant advantage over competitors like the BMW iX3. However, the interior design and software experience are significant drawbacks. The reviewer found the large central screen and surrounding trim to feel "unpremium" and "cheap," with laggy software that doesn't match the slickness of competitors. While the exterior design is deemed acceptable, the reviewer's main criticism is the vehicle's charging performance and architecture, especially when compared to the BMW iX3, which offers faster peak charging and a larger battery. The potential for reduced charging speeds on the Tesla Supercharger network due to a 400V booster is a notable concern for US buyers. Despite its shortcomings, the GLC Electric is positioned as a potential high-volume seller for Mercedes, especially given the popularity of its combustion counterpart. less

My 2026 Nissan LEAF First Drive! The Affordable EV Finally Gets The Update It Deserves

The 2026 Nissan LEAF marks a significant, albeit overdue, evolution for the long-standing affordable EV. This third-generation model finally sheds its... more aging design and technology for a more modern crossover SUV aesthetic, sharing the CMF EV platform with the Ariya. Key improvements include a liquid-cooled 75 kWh battery with improved thermal management, a more aerodynamic design (Cd of 0.26), and a standard 360-degree camera system. The interior boasts larger screens (14.3-inch on higher trims) with Google software, though lower trims get smaller, less capable screens. While the Platinum Plus trim tested offers a premium feel with features like a panoramic glass roof and a 10-speaker Bose system, it notably lacks expected premium amenities such as ventilated seats or a power passenger seat, reinforcing its economy car roots. The reviewer highlights the SV Plus trim as the likely sweet spot, offering a good balance of features, including the improved infotainment and battery preconditioning, at a more accessible price point. Driving dynamics are described as refined and quiet, a significant step up from the previous generation, though the absence of one-pedal driving is a notable omission. Charging speeds are adequate at 150 kW peak, but not class-leading. The biggest draw remains its affordability, with the base S model expected to start under $30,000, making it a compelling option for budget-conscious EV buyers. 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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