Out of Spec Reviews

Following A Tesla Using FSD Beta Is Incredible And Scary!

This video provides an in-depth look at Tesla's FSD Beta system, primarily focusing on its performance in a lead-follow scenario with a chase veh... moreicle. The reviewer highlights the system's impressive capabilities in navigating complex urban environments, executing turns, and responding to traffic signals. However, the review also underscores significant concerns regarding the system's unpredictable behavior, including sudden braking, erratic lane changes, and instances of confusion in intersections, which can be both "scary" and "embarrassing." While acknowledging the system's advancements and its potential for daily driving, the reviewer emphasizes that it is not yet safe for unsupervised operation and criticizes Tesla's approach to driver education compared to other manufacturers. The video concludes that while FSD Beta is "so good" most of the time, it remains "so sketchy" at others, requiring constant driver vigilance. less

Our Volkswagen Dealer Sells More EVs Than ICE! Buying Yet Another Chattanooga ID.4 Before Year End

The Out of Spec team continues their exploration of the Volkswagen ID.4, this time with a new purchase for Jess, the wife. Despite acknowledging persi... morestent software bugs, the team highlights the ID.4's compelling value proposition, particularly with the end-of-year tax credits and the attractive price point compared to competitors like the Tesla Model Y or Hyundai Ioniq 5/Kia EV6, which are subject to long wait times. The reviewer praises the dealership experience at Ed Carroll Motor Company, emphasizing the strong EV focus and supportive customer relationships. While software glitches like screen shutdowns and adaptive cruise warnings are noted, they haven't deterred the purchase, as the core functionality for daily commutes remains reliable. The video also touches on the practical aspects of EV ownership, including charging habits and the importance of a towing solution, while teasing future modifications for the new ID.4, including lowering the suspension and custom wheels. less

I Finally Got Tesla FSD Beta! First Drive And Raw Impressions In My Model S At Night

Kyle Conner's initial drive with Tesla's FSD Beta in his Model S reveals a system with impressive capabilities but significant room for impr... moreovement, particularly in nighttime driving conditions. While the visualizations are lauded for their detail, the system frequently exhibits erratic behavior, sending mixed signals to other drivers with inconsistent turn signal usage and abrupt braking or acceleration. The reviewer highlights a lack of clear instructions from Tesla on how to properly use the system, emphasizing the potential for misuse by the general public. Despite its advanced features, the FSD Beta's performance, especially during left turns and complex intersections, is described as clunky and confusing, leading to a strong recommendation for drivers to remain highly attentive and take over control frequently. The reviewer expresses a desire to like the technology but is ultimately frustrated by its current unreliability and the mixed signals it sends. less

Tesla Launches Service Mode! Wild Battery Health Results For My 120,000mi Model 3

The video introduces Tesla's new Service Mode, now accessible to general users, and focuses on its battery degradation testing feature. The revie... morewer utilizes this mode on his 2019 Tesla Model 3 Performance with nearly 120,000 miles. While the Service Mode offers valuable insights into various vehicle systems, the battery health test yielded a surprising and seemingly inaccurate result of 8% health. This contradicts the reviewer's previous independent test (using Scan My Tesla) which indicated around 10-11% degradation at 100,000 miles, and a more recent estimate of 12-13% degradation at 119,000 miles. The reviewer suspects the 8% figure from the in-car test is incorrect, possibly due to initial state of charge or temperature variables. He concludes that independent discharge testing, similar to his previous methods, remains the most reliable way to assess battery health. The video also briefly touches upon suspension modifications and tire choices for the Model 3. less

We Couldn't Believe How Close The Rivian R1S & R1T Finished In This Efficiency Battle

This video pits the Rivian R1S SUV against the R1T pickup in an efficiency battle over a 40-mile mixed-route test. The primary goal was to determine t... morehe efficiency difference between the two vehicles under identical conditions, including software, battery state, and tire type (20-inch all-terrain). The reviewer highlights that the R1S is a highly desirable electric SUV with a well-adapted platform from the R1T. Despite different vehicle shapes, the highway portion of the test showed virtually identical efficiency. The final results were remarkably close: the R1S achieved 2.16 miles per kilowatt-hour, while the R1T achieved 2.11 miles per kilowatt-hour. The reviewer notes that the R1T was slightly more efficient in this specific test, but the difference was minimal and attributed to factors like wheel choice and potential aerodynamic advantages of the truck. The video also briefly touches on a separate test with the R1T on 22-inch wheels, which was less efficient. Ultimately, the reviewer concludes that factors like weather, speed, and wind have a greater impact on energy consumption than the choice between the R1S and R1T, advising buyers not to base their decision on efficiency alone. less

Finally High Power 350kW+ ChargePoint Units! Charging On The Express Plus For The First Time

The reviewer expresses significant enthusiasm for the new ChargePoint Express Plus charging stations, highlighting their long-awaited arrival and subs... moretantial power output. The video details a charging session with a 2022 Tesla Model S Plaid, which achieved a peak of 199.5 kW on a 200 kW configured unit, demonstrating the station's capability. The reviewer praises the high-quality, liquid-cooled Phoenix Contact cables and the modular design of the power cabinets, which allow for easy servicing and potential expansion up to 400 kW. A notable positive is ChargePoint's robust backend software, offering advanced features like dynamic power sharing and demand charge management, which is seen as a significant advantage over competitors. However, the initial charging session experienced an unexpected interruption and a subsequent issue with card activation, suggesting potential software bugs or reliability concerns that need further observation. Despite these minor hiccups, the overall verdict is highly positive, marking the Express Plus as a major advancement for ChargePoint and DC fast charging infrastructure. less

These People Were Insane to Build the 1982 Unique Mobility Electrek in Colorado!

This video explores the 1982 Unique Mobility Electrek, a rare electric vehicle lovingly restored by Declan Kavanaugh. The Electrek, built in Colorado,... more was a product of the 1970s oil crisis, aiming to offer an efficient alternative. It features a brushed DC shunt-wound motor, 16 lead-acid golf cart batteries providing 96 volts, and a unique, albeit unreliable, analog motor controller. A notable innovation was its early adoption of regenerative braking. The car's construction utilizes fiberglass, contributing to its longevity and resistance to rust. While its advertised top speed was 75 mph, real-world performance is more modest, with speeds around 60 mph feeling precarious due to chassis shake. The interior, though basic, offers surprising comfort. The reviewer highlights the car's historical significance as one of the first commercially available EVs with advanced features for its time, despite its numerous quirks and reliability issues, particularly with the controller. The restoration effort, aided by former engineers, is commendable, preserving a piece of EV history. less

The Fastest (and Slowest?) Charging EV We've Ever Tested! The Hummer EV Hits Over 360kW Peak

The Hummer EV charging experience presents a tale of two halves, delivering blistering peak speeds exceeding 360kW, yet struggling with a highly incon... moresistent and often disappointing charging curve. While the initial charge from 0-35% is exceptionally fast, averaging over 300kW, performance significantly degrades thereafter. The reviewer highlights a concerning dip in charging speed around the 65% mark, plummeting to as low as 14kW by 84% state of charge. This erratic behavior, potentially linked to thermal management or battery protection strategies, makes extended charging sessions frustrating. Despite the massive 212kWh battery, the reviewer achieved a respectable 318 miles of range at 70mph in cool conditions. The vehicle's charging strategy, which involves switching the double-stacked battery from parallel to series to double its voltage (350-400V to 700-800V), is an engineering marvel for cost-effectiveness across platforms, but it contributes to the complex charging behavior. The lack of an 80A onboard charger further exacerbates slow home charging. Ultimately, the Hummer EV's charging infrastructure demands are high, making it best suited for road trips where 65% is the target charge before seeking the next high-power station. less

Electrify America Has Been Upgrading Their Sites With New Chargers - Here's How It's Going So Far

This video provides a critical look at Electrify America's rollout of new DC fast charging hardware, replacing older ABB units with BTC and SK Si... moregnet dispensers. While the new hardware offers significantly longer cables and, in some cases, appears to deliver more power than rated, the reviewer highlights major concerns regarding reliability and potential vehicle damage. The installation process itself is disruptive, with stations going offline for extended periods, sometimes during peak travel times. More alarmingly, the new chargers have been implicated in bricking vehicles, particularly Rivians and other VW Group platforms, due to inconsistent power delivery. Despite the promise of improved performance, the reviewer expresses skepticism about whether these expensive upgrades will truly enhance long-term reliability, drawing a contrast with the perceived robustness of Tesla's Superchargers. The video concludes that while the new units look good and offer impressive peak power, the ongoing issues with reliability and potential for vehicle damage make the overall experience a "total toss-up" and a "hassle." less

Everything You Could Ever Want To Know About In-Car Seating! Ergonomics, Materials, Comfort, & More

This video delves deep into the innovative world of automotive seating, showcasing Magna's advancements in ergonomics, materials, and functionali... morety. The review highlights the evolution of Stow 'N Go seating, emphasizing its third-generation refinement for seamless cargo and passenger transformation. Key innovations like the pitch-slide system for third-row access, which preserves child seat installations, and the app-controlled reconfigurable seats for various modes (cargo, people mover, campfire mode) are particularly impressive. The introduction of the 'Zero-G' seat offers a glimpse into ultimate relaxation during downtime. Furthermore, the 'FreeForm' technology revolutionizes soft trim application, enabling complex 3D shapes and intricate patterns without traditional stitching, bringing concept car aesthetics to production vehicles. Sustainability is also a core focus, with discussions on recycled and bio-based materials, including foams derived from scrap and face goods made from corn and sugarcane. The review concludes that these advancements, particularly FreeForm, empower designers to create visually stunning and highly functional interiors, blurring the lines between concept and reality. less

Here’s Why The BMW i3 Is A Great Used Electric Car Buy

The 2020 BMW i3 is presented as a compelling used EV buy, particularly for city driving, despite its polarizing design. The reviewer highlights its un... moreique, ground-up EV architecture, lightweight carbon fiber construction, and surprisingly nimble handling thanks to its rear-wheel-drive setup and skinny tires. While acknowledging its limited range compared to newer EVs like the Chevy Bolt, the i3's 150-mile EPA estimate (on the 42 kWh battery) is deemed usable for many. The interior is praised for its spacious feel, airy cabin, and use of sustainable materials. Key drawbacks include aggressive regenerative braking in low-traction conditions and a compact rear seat. The buyer's guide section emphasizes that later models (2017 onwards) offer significantly improved range (110-150 miles) over earlier versions (80 miles), and recommends prioritizing models with the larger battery pack. The absence of Apple CarPlay in pre-2018 models is noted. Overall, the i3 is positioned as a distinctive, fun-to-drive EV with personality, best suited for urban environments, and a strong contender in the used market if its specific characteristics align with buyer needs. less

Here's Every Type Of Driver Assistance Sensor And What They All Can Do!

This video provides an in-depth look at the various sensors used in Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), featuring insights from Magna, a key su... morepplier. The presentation covers radar, ultrasonic sensors, lidar, and cameras, explaining their individual functions and how they integrate into a domain controller. Key applications highlighted include autonomous valet parking, advanced trailering with enhanced camera views, and highway pilot systems for Level 3 autonomy. A significant focus is placed on the mandatory driver monitoring systems coming in 2024, with Magna showcasing an integrated solution within the rearview mirror. The discussion also touches upon occupant monitoring and the use of radar for detecting heartbeats. A core theme is the trade-off between sensor cost, functionality, and the necessity of advanced sensors like high-resolution digital radar and lidar for achieving the final percentage of safety and reliability, especially in challenging conditions where simpler camera-only systems might falter. The video emphasizes that while cameras are improving, radar and lidar offer crucial redundancy and performance in edge cases. less

Every Chevy Bolt Is Getting A Free Battery Upgrade! We Range Test The Old 60kWh vs New 66kWh

This video presents a compelling real-world range test comparing a Chevrolet Bolt EV with its original 60kWh battery against one that has received the... more new 66kWh battery as part of the recall. The primary takeaway is that while the new battery offers a slight increase in range, the difference in this specific test was surprisingly minimal, with the older battery achieving 196 miles (estimated usable) and the new battery reaching 203.3 miles. The reviewers highlight that the new battery comes with a fresh warranty and eliminates the fire risk associated with the older packs, making the upgrade highly recommended despite the modest range gain. They also note that the Bolt is conservative with its battery usage, allowing drivers to utilize most of the capacity before critical warnings appear. The charging speed of the Bolt is acknowledged as slow, but the overall conclusion is that the recall service is a worthwhile upgrade for peace of mind and a new warranty. less

Snow Day With A Volkswagen ID.4 AWD! Here's How It Handles Cold Weather With No Modifications

The 2023 Volkswagen ID.4 AWD demonstrates impressive capability in snowy conditions, largely due to its well-tuned drivetrain and stability control sy... morestems. The reviewer highlights the 'traction mode' as particularly effective, keeping the front motor engaged for more consistent power delivery and reduced rear-wheel spin. While the all-wheel-drive system and ESP calibration are praised as superior to many competitors like the Mustang Mach-E, Model Y, Ioniq 5, and EV6, the stock Pirelli Scorpion Zero all-season tires are identified as a significant weak link, especially on icy or packed snow surfaces, leading to dangerously long braking distances. The reviewer strongly recommends upgrading to dedicated winter tires for optimal performance. Other points of praise include the rapid heating of seats, steering wheel, and windshield, along with good cabin climate control. However, the vehicle is not without its flaws, including persistent airbag and parking sensor warning lights, a clunky app interface, and a notable lack of on-route battery preconditioning for DC fast charging, which exacerbates cold-gating issues. Despite these software and hardware shortcomings, the reviewer concludes that the ID.4 is a strong contender for cold-weather use, especially given its value proposition, provided buyers are prepared to invest in appropriate winter tires. less

Rivian Amazon Van Full Tour! Check Out This Insanely Cool Electric Delivery Vehicle

This video provides an in-depth look at the Rivian EDV 700, Amazon's electric delivery van, highlighting its driver-centric design and operationa... morel advantages. The reviewer, Max, is impressed by the spacious and comfortable cab, noting the ample headroom for drivers over six feet tall, a significant improvement over traditional vans. Key features praised include the intuitive dual-screen interface, seamless phone integration for navigation, and the 360-degree camera system enhancing safety. The one-pedal driving with strong regenerative braking is identified as a major efficiency booster, allowing drivers to barely use the brake pedal and significantly extending range. While the current EDV 700 uses dual motors for front-wheel drive and a 135 kWh battery, future iterations will feature all-wheel drive with Enduro motors. The nominal range is stated as 150 miles, with regenerative braking contributing to actual daily mileage. Drivers transitioning from traditional vans find the EDV significantly easier and more comfortable to operate, with features like keyless entry and heated steering wheel being highly appreciated. The van's design is also noted for its distinctive aesthetics and practical cargo space, configurable with three-tier shelving. The collaboration between Rivian and Amazon is seen as a benchmark for bespoke manufacturer partnerships. less

Fixing The Biggest Problem With My Model S Plaid! MPP Big Brakes & Martian Wheels Transform The Car

The reviewer addresses the widely acknowledged braking deficiency of the Tesla Model S Plaid, deeming the factory brakes "massively undersized&qu... moreot; and a "weakest link." To rectify this, a significant upgrade to Mountain Pass Performance (MPP) front and rear big brake kits, utilizing slotted steel rotors and higher-temperature fluid, has been installed. This upgrade, along with a square 20-inch Martian Wheels setup with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, has transformed the car's handling and safety, particularly for spirited driving and track use. While the powertrain remains exceptional, the reviewer emphasizes that the stock brakes were inadequate for the car's performance, leading to a "night and day difference" with the new system. Future upgrades planned include brake lines and a brake brace for improved pedal feel, and potentially suspension modifications. The reviewer also expresses a strong desire to replace the yoke steering wheel for a more traditional round wheel for daily driving. less

I Drive The NIO ES8 For The First Time! A Practical 7-Seater That's Already Due For A Refresh

The NIO ES8 presents itself as a practical 7-seater SUV with a comfortable ride and impressive battery swap technology, a standout feature for those w... moreithout home charging. However, the review highlights that the ES8, despite its solid build and capable AWD drivetrain, feels dated compared to newer offerings like the ET7. Key criticisms include lagging software, a less refined interior with older switchgear, and peculiar design choices like the passenger seat's recliner and footrest. While the driving dynamics are competent for cruising, with good comfort and decent acceleration, the lack of one-pedal driving and some oddities in the driver assistance system (like one-way lane changes) detract from the experience. The reviewer concludes that while the ES8 is a solid vehicle, it is clearly due for a mid-cycle refresh to bring its software and interior appointments up to par with its innovative battery technology and overall build quality. less

This Is A New iX / e-tron Competitor Launching In Europe This Week! I Drive The Voyah Free

The Voyah Free, specifically the long-range AWD version destined for Europe, makes a strong first impression as a premium EV competitor. The reviewer ... morehighlights its high-quality interior materials, extensive features like the panoramic sky curtain and impressive ambient lighting, and a comfortable ride, often surpassing expectations for its price point compared to established luxury brands like Audi and BMW. However, the vehicle is not without its drawbacks. Charging speed is identified as a significant weakness, with a 125kW peak DC charging rate being notably slow for its 100kWh battery. Software, while improving with Euro-specific versions, still exhibits translation issues and occasional bugs. Despite these points, the reviewer is largely impressed by the Voyah Free's value proposition, offering a feature-rich and luxurious experience for approximately $70,000, though a degree of bravery is required for early adopters due to the newness of the brand and potential long-term support concerns. less

Is Battery Swapping The Future Of Electric Car Charging? We Visit A NIO Swap Station To Find Out

This video provides an in-depth look at NIO's battery swapping technology, visiting a station near Oslo, Norway. The hosts experience a battery s... morewap in an ES8, which takes approximately five to six minutes, a process they found impressive and convenient, especially for achieving a 90% charge quickly. While the technology itself is lauded for its speed and potential to eliminate range anxiety and battery degradation concerns (particularly with a battery subscription model), the review highlights practical limitations. The primary concern is scalability; a single swap station occupies a footprint comparable to multiple DC fast chargers and can only service one car at a time. This bottleneck could lead to congestion and make DC fast charging a more appealing option for many, especially as NIO also offers DC fast charging at its swap stations. The reviewer concludes that while battery swapping is a cool and fast experience, its widespread practicality hinges on significant network expansion and overcoming the logistical challenges of high traffic volumes. less

Welcome To Nio House Oslo Full Tour Of How This Chinese EV Company Is Presenting Itself To Norway

This video offers a comprehensive tour of the NIO House in Oslo, Norway, highlighting the Chinese EV manufacturer's strategy to integrate into th... moree local community and present its brand beyond just vehicle sales. The hosts are impressed by the architectural design, the welcoming atmosphere, and the community-focused amenities, including a cafe, co-working spaces, and event areas. While the NIO ET7 and ES8 are showcased, with positive remarks on their material quality and luxury feel, the review points out that software optimization is needed, citing glitches and issues with the battery swap system. The EP9 hypercar makes an appearance, underscoring NIO's performance heritage. The editorial emphasizes NIO's ambition to establish a strong European presence, with Norway serving as a key market. The overall impression is that NIO House Oslo is a successful, public-facing community hub that aims to build brand loyalty and immerse potential customers in the NIO lifestyle, even if they don't own a vehicle. less

Total Electric Car Insanity! Spotting EVs Everywhere On A Quick Drive In Oslo, Norway

In this video, Kyle and Alyssa embark on a drive from north of Oslo into the city center, aiming to count the number of electric vehicles encountered.... more The primary focus is on observing the prevalence of EVs in Norway, with the hosts noting the sheer volume of electric cars, including various Tesla models, Volkswagen ID series, Audis, and many others. They highlight the extensive charging infrastructure and the widespread adoption of EVs, even in winter conditions, suggesting that Norway is a prime example of a successful EV market. While the video is a lighthearted count, it effectively conveys the dominance of electric mobility in Norway. The hosts express their enjoyment of the drive in the ID. Buzz, noting its surprisingly good handling. less

Volkswagen ID. Buzz 70-MPH Highway Range Test (77kWh / 21” / Cold Weather)

This video presents a 70 mph highway range test of the Volkswagen ID. Buzz in cold Norwegian weather, using the 77 kWh battery pack and 21-inch wheels... more. The reviewer highlights that this is not an official test loop and that the US market will receive the long-wheelbase version. Despite the challenging conditions (cold, damp, but no wind), the ID. Buzz struggled, achieving a disappointing efficiency of 2.1 miles per kWh. The reviewer notes the vehicle's "brick-like" aerodynamics as a significant factor. While the charging speed was impressive, the real-world range fell short of expectations, leading to speculation that the larger battery planned for the US market is a necessary inclusion. The reviewer concludes that while the ID. Buzz has significant personality and charm, its range in less-than-ideal conditions is a notable drawback. less

I Drive A NIO For The First Time! This ET7 Has Great Features But Is Seemingly Glitchy

The NIO ET7 presents a compelling package with impressive build quality and a sophisticated interior, making it a strong contender in the premium EV s... moreedan market. The reviewer highlights the car's quiet and comfortable ride, excellent fit and finish, and responsive, high-quality software interface, particularly praising the Nomi AI assistant and the customizable driving modes. However, the experience was marred by significant glitches, including non-functional driver assistance systems and issues with the car's registration for battery swapping, preventing a full evaluation of key features. The reviewer also noted a high seating position due to the large battery pack and a noticeable delay in throttle response in Comfort mode, though Sport Plus and custom modes offered better performance. Despite the technical issues encountered, the ET7's hardware, materials, and overall refinement suggest strong potential, with the reviewer eager for a follow-up experience to properly test its unique features like battery swapping and advanced driver aids. less

We Are In The EV Capital Of The World! Arriving In Norway And Trying To Activate Chargers

The EVCapital of the World series continues with Kyle and Alyssa exploring Oslo, Norway, in a European-spec Volkswagen ID. Buzz. The short-wheelbase I... moreD. Buzz, equipped with most options except two-tone paint, is praised for its excellent ride comfort and maneuverability, making it ideal for city exploration and van life aspirations. However, the reviewer notes disappointment with the vehicle's range prediction (307 km at 90% charge) and the noise level at highway speeds, especially with the larger wheels. A significant portion of the video is dedicated to testing various charging networks as American tourists. While Shell Recharge and Alpitronics were successfully activated using a Plugsurfing card, the MAJ station required the MAJ app and a US-compatible credit card. Circle K proved challenging, necessitating a local app and a business Visa. Tesla Superchargers were seamlessly activated via the American Tesla app for non-Teslas. The overall verdict is that while the ID. Buzz is a charming and capable vehicle for exploring, its real-world range and noise levels are points of concern, and navigating European charging infrastructure as a tourist remains a complex, albeit solvable, challenge. 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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