Out of Spec Reviews

Every Service My Rivian R1T Needed Over 3 Years & 60,000 Miles

This video details the comprehensive service history of a 2022 Rivian R1T Launch Edition over three years and 60,000 miles, covering 10 service appoin... moretments and 54 distinct issues. The reviewer, highly particular about vehicle condition, proactively addressed numerous minor concerns, including body panel alignment, suspension squeaks, and persistent half-shaft clunking noises, which were never fully resolved to his satisfaction. While the truck never left him stranded and the powertrain proved reliable with minimal degradation, the service experience was marked by long wait times (8-10 weeks) and occasional inconvenience due to loaner car availability. Despite the extensive list of repairs, including multiple suspension components, a chargeport door, and even a steering wheel replacement, the reviewer expresses a strong overall satisfaction with the R1T, highlighting its capability and the quality of early models, though he notes a perceived decline in build quality for Gen 2. He would happily purchase another Rivian, but desires quicker service turnaround times. less

Driving My $750 Electric Car For The First Time!

Kyle takes possession of a 2012 Mitsubishi i-MiEV, acquired for a mere $750, after it was revived from a junkyard state by Alex from the Out of Spec R... moreenew channel. The car's primary issue was a single dead battery cell, which was successfully replaced, bringing the vehicle back to life. The reviewer highlights the i-MiEV's quirky design, rear-wheel-drive configuration, and surprisingly brisk acceleration for its age and class, comparing it favorably to the Nissan Leaf of the same era. While acknowledging its cosmetic imperfections and the need for an alignment and detailing, Kyle expresses significant enthusiasm for this unique piece of EV history, especially given its low acquisition cost. The video also touches upon the car's charging capabilities, interior features, and the process of getting it registered. The reviewer concludes by expressing satisfaction with the purchase and hints at future content involving the i-MiEV. less

New AT4 Trim For GMC Sierra EV! My First Drive Mostly In The Mud

The 2026 GMC Sierra EV AT4 trim offers a compelling blend of off-road styling and capability, though it stops short of being a hardcore off-roader. Wh... moreile it boasts a 2-inch lift, 35-inch all-terrain tires, and enhanced skid plates, its true off-road prowess is somewhat limited by the lack of locking differentials and disconnecting sway bars. The reviewer highlights the impressive on-road comfort and quietness compared to previous iterations, and praises the massive 217 kWh battery pack offering exceptional range (476 miles estimated) and fast charging (up to 380 kW). Key criticisms include the continued use of a CCS charge port instead of NACS, the lack of a 'dog mode', and the artificial EV motor noise piped into the cabin when full power is engaged. The rear charge port is also noted as inconvenient for towing. Despite these drawbacks, the AT4's standard features, spacious interior, and the overall capability of the Sierra EV platform, particularly its towing and range, make it a strong contender, especially for those prioritizing a comfortable and capable electric truck for work or outdoor adventures. less

This Is Insane! Driving The 1,250 Horsepower Zeekr 001 FR In America

The Zeekr 001 FR, a 1,250 horsepower electric beast, is put through its paces on American canyon roads. While its straight-line acceleration is descri... morebed as "insane" and "beyond fast," the vehicle's dynamic performance reveals a need for further refinement. The reviewer highlights significant issues with the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) tuning, noting it as overly intrusive and unpredictable, leading to a transition from understeer to oversteer without driver input. The stock Pirelli P Zero Elect tires are deemed inadequate for the car's power, contributing to a lack of grip and early breakaway. Despite these shortcomings, the brakes are praised for their modulation and effectiveness, and the rear-steering system is found to be beneficial. The car's ride quality is noted as compliant and comfortable for daily use, with a luxurious interior and snappy software. However, the reviewer concludes that the 001 FR, while incredibly powerful and fun, requires further suspension tuning, improved tire selection, and software updates to truly rival top-tier performance EVs like the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT or Lucid Air Sapphire. less

This Is One Of The First Produced Tesla Model S

This video offers a fascinating deep dive into one of the earliest Tesla Model S vehicles, VIN 44, a 2012 Signature model. The reviewer highlights its... more historical significance as one of the first truly Tesla-built cars, distinct from the contract-manufactured Roadster. Key takeaways include its original $109,000 sticker price versus its current market value of around $5,500, showcasing significant depreciation. The car retains its original 85 kWh battery pack, now 13 years old, still achieving an estimated 200 miles of range, though battery replacement costs are substantial ($19,500 from Tesla). The review touches on common issues like condensation in lamps and potential drive unit failures, emphasizing the importance of checking for coolant in the drive unit. While lacking modern features like Autopilot and one-pedal driving, the reviewer praises the car's solid feel, quiet ride, and the surprisingly capable MCU2 infotainment system for its age. The Signature model's exclusive red paint and unique interior details are noted as significant appeal factors for collectors. Ultimately, it's presented as a piece of automotive history, best suited for enthusiasts who understand the potential maintenance challenges and costs associated with owning such an early EV. less

Ownership Update! I've Had My 2025 Tesla Model 3 For 6 Months & 11,000 Miles

After six months and 11,000 miles, the 2025 Tesla Model 3 Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive (Highland version) proves to be a highly competent daily driver,... more excelling in ride comfort, NVH reduction, and overall efficiency. The reviewer highlights the ventilated seats as a significant upgrade and praises the ample storage space, making it ideal for road trips with two people and dogs. While the car is not perfect, particularly regarding charging speeds which are considered mediocre compared to newer Chinese EVs, and the lack of a premium sound system in this trim, the reviewer finds it to be the best car for their personal needs. The Full Self-Driving (FSD) capability, especially with recent software updates, is noted as being impressively good, though still requiring supervision. Build quality is deemed solid, with no rattles reported, and the efficiency metrics consistently impress, even outperforming some luxury competitors in tests. Minor gripes include the potential for rock chips showing through the wrap and the wireless phone charger's tendency to overheat phones. less

Inside Rivian Engineering: Full Tour Of The Labs Creating A Vertically Integrated EV Platform

This video offers an in-depth look into Rivian's engineering and development process, focusing heavily on their vertically integrated approach to... more hardware and software. The tour highlights the meticulous testing and validation procedures for ECUs and electrical architecture, showcasing the transition from Gen 1 to the significantly simplified and advanced Gen 2 system. Key takeaways include the reduction in ECUs from 17 to 7, the implementation of zonal controllers, and the use of in-house designed components. The discussion emphasizes how this vertical integration allows for greater control, faster iteration, and future-proofing, particularly for upcoming models like the R2. The video also touches upon the advanced compute power for ADAS and the rigorous testing required for Rivian's off-road capable vehicles, underscoring the company's commitment to technological leadership and reliability. less

The Cadillac Lyriq Has Really Grown On Me Over The Years!

The Cadillac Lyriq receives a second look, with the reviewer noting significant improvements since its initial release. While early models suffered fr... moreom software bugs and a less refined driving experience, this 2025 600E4 AWD dual-motor variant showcases GM's progress. The reviewer highlights the smoothed-out Android-based operating system, the continued presence of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the overall enhanced stability and comfort. Positives include a spacious and luxurious interior, comfortable ride quality, and a quiet cabin, making it a compelling option for a relaxed, daily driver. However, criticisms remain, such as the slow steering ratio, the lack of a numerical state-of-charge display on the main screen, and the absence of a front trunk. The reviewer suggests leasing rather than buying new and notes that while not a performance-oriented vehicle, it excels as a comfortable, stylish American cruiser, potentially serving as a great complement to a performance car like the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing. less

New Jersey Is Forcing Tesla To Remove Supercharger Stations!?

The New Jersey Turnpike Authority's decision to remove Tesla Supercharger stations in favor of exclusive Apple Green chargers is met with strong ... morecriticism. The hosts argue this move is a step backward for EV adoption, citing the insufficient number of Apple Green chargers and their higher cost (59 cents/kWh vs. Tesla's 39 cents/kWh). While Apple Green's chargers have shown reliability, their limited capacity and inconsistent infrastructure are highlighted as major drawbacks. The decision is viewed as detrimental to EV drivers, forcing them off the highway for charging and potentially losing ancillary business for the plazas. Despite Apple Green's business rationale for an exclusive contract, the lack of a carve-out for existing Tesla infrastructure is seen as unfair. The political motivations and potential for backroom deals in New Jersey are also discussed, with the hosts lamenting that Tesla's recent public image issues with Elon Musk make it difficult for politicians to advocate for the brand. Ultimately, the consensus is that the driver loses out, facing inconvenience and higher costs, while Tesla proactively built infrastructure off the highway as a contingency. less

Full Tour Inside Rivian's Production Plant In Normal, IL!

This video offers an in-depth tour of Rivian's production plant in Normal, Illinois, providing viewers with a comprehensive look at how the R1T a... morend R1S vehicles are manufactured. The hosts, Kyle and Colton, are guided by Carlo Madzo, VP of Manufacturing and Logistics, who details the assembly process from the initial stages to final quality checks. Key highlights include insights into the "trim three" area, emphasizing lean manufacturing principles and improved ergonomics, and the battery assembly process, showcasing advanced automation and quality control. The tour also touches upon the upcoming R2 production, with significant expansion underway. While the video doesn't focus on a specific trim or drivetrain, it effectively conveys the scale, complexity, and continuous improvement efforts within the Rivian factory, particularly noting the transition towards more efficient and streamlined processes. The hosts express excitement about the factory's evolution and the potential for future models like the R2. less

This Is The 3-Row Electric SUV To Buy! Volvo EX90 vs Rivian R1S vs Kia EV9 vs Cadillac Vistiq

This comprehensive comparison pits four major 3-row electric SUVs against each other: the Kia EV9, Cadillac Vistiq, Volvo EX90, and Rivian R1S. The Ki... morea EV9 emerges as the standout value proposition, praised for its exceptional rear seat space and impressive leasing deals, despite its software and interior quality being noted as drawbacks. The Cadillac Vistiq is highlighted for its American "land yacht" presence, comfortable highway cruising, and excellent driver assistance, though its battery size, range, and interior materials are criticized. The Volvo EX90 impresses with its refined driving dynamics, agile chassis, and a truly exceptional Bowers & Wilkins sound system, but suffers from a high price point, average charging performance, and a peculiar rear window switch. The Rivian R1S, while the most expensive, offers unparalleled capability across various terrains and a continuously improving software experience, but its interior build quality and door handles are points of contention. Ultimately, the choice depends on buyer priorities: value (EV9), highway comfort (Vistiq), premium refinement (EX90), or versatile capability (R1S). less

Telo MT1 First Look & Full In-Depth Tour

The Telo MT1 prototype offers a compelling vision for a compact, urban-friendly electric truck, aiming to blend Toyota Tacoma capability with Tesla-li... moreke range in a Mini Cooper footprint. The design is distinctive, prioritizing practicality with a 5-foot bed and a unique lockable "monster tunnel" for extra storage. Safety is a key focus, with a first-principles approach to front crumple zones. While the prototype lacks final production tuning and software, the core concept is strong. The CEO highlights a strategy focused on unit profitability at lower volumes, leveraging experienced advisors like Tesla co-founders. Potential drawbacks include the lack of a frunk and the trade-off of a smaller cabin for its compact size. The vehicle's towing capacity of 6,600 lbs is respectable, though, like all EVs, towing significantly impacts range. Overall, the MT1 presents an intriguing alternative to larger, less maneuverable electric trucks, appealing to urban dwellers who still desire truck utility. less

My Cadillac Vistiq Premium Luxury First Experience

The Cadillac Vistiq Premium Luxury offers a compelling, albeit expensive, entry into the three-row electric SUV segment. Reviewers praise its striking... more design, particularly the Platinum trim's blacked-out accents, and the spacious, well-appointed interior featuring high-quality materials and a standard 23-speaker AKG/Dolby Atmos sound system. The augmented reality head-up display is a standout feature, though its placement can be distracting. Performance is strong with 615 horsepower, delivering brisk acceleration. However, the Vistiq faces stiff competition. While it offers a comfortable ride and advanced features like rear-wheel steering and Super Cruise, its premium trims command a high price, approaching $100,000, which rivals like the Rivian R1S offer with potentially better range and charging. The lack of a frunk, the slow charging speeds compared to competitors, and the pre-mapped-only Super Cruise are noted drawbacks. The reviewer suggests that for the price, the Platinum trim is the most desirable, but even then, comparing it to the Rivian R1S is recommended. less

Small EV SUV Driving Comparison: Volvo EX30 vs MINI Countryman vs Hyundai Kona vs Kia Niro

This comparison test pits four small electric SUVs against each other: the Volvo EX30, MINI Countryman SE, Kia Niro EV, and Hyundai Kona Electric. The... more reviewer highlights the EX30 as the fastest and most powerful, boasting over 420 horsepower and a 3.4-second 0-60 time, making it a 'pocket rocket.' However, its minimalist interior and distracting infotainment system, particularly the shared climate/volume control, are noted drawbacks. The MINI Countryman SE, despite its higher price and weight, offers surprisingly capable handling when pushed hard, though its steering is described as uncommunicative. The Kia Niro EV and Hyundai Kona Electric are praised for their value, efficiency, and comfortable, intuitive interiors, with the Kona receiving accolades for its updated technology and spaciousness. While the Niro is seen as slightly dated compared to the new Kona, both are considered practical choices, especially with attractive lease deals. The EX30 emerges as a strong contender for those prioritizing performance, while the Kona and Niro appeal to value-conscious buyers. less

The Renault 5 E-Tech Is A Super Fun Affordable Electric Hot Hatch!

The Renault 5 E-Tech is presented as an exciting and affordable electric hot hatch, aiming to showcase the significant advancements in cheaper EVs. Th... moree reviewer is highly impressed with its retro-inspired styling, particularly the exterior design and unique "viewfinder" accents, and praises the vibrant color options and customizability. Inside, the "Iconic" trim level offers a surprisingly premium feel with quality fabric materials and tactile controls, although hard plastics are prevalent in some areas. Key highlights include the intuitive Google-based infotainment system with integrated Google Maps, excellent climate controls with physical buttons, and a comfortable seating position that surpasses that of the BMW i3 and even the Model Y. However, rear legroom is noted as a significant drawback, and the lack of a dedicated parking gear and a somewhat basic manual rear hatch are minor criticisms. The driving experience is a major positive, with the car feeling responsive, agile, and surprisingly fun on winding roads, offering a more isolated and refined ride than expected for its price point. While acceleration from a standstill is not its strongest suit, its mid-range punch and excellent brakes make it engaging. Charging speeds are adequate for its class (around 100 kW peak), though not class-leading, and the reviewer expresses a strong desire to own the car due to its overall package and character. less

My First Look At The Zeekr 009 Grand! A New Level Of Ultra Luxury Electric Vans

The Zeekr 009 Grand presents an ultra-luxury electric van experience, prioritizing passenger comfort and technology over driving dynamics. The reviewe... morer highlights the opulent interior, featuring 22-way massaging seats with hot stone functionality, a 43-inch rear entertainment screen, and a premium 31-speaker Yamaha sound system, creating a "palace" or "retreat lounge" atmosphere. The "Grand" trim is noted for its four-seat configuration, emphasizing exclusivity. While the exterior boasts striking design elements and advanced features like dual-chamber air suspension, the reviewer points out the surprising inclusion of sporty tires and a sub-4-second 0-60 mph time, suggesting performance is secondary to the plush ride. The vehicle's price point, over $100,000 USD, is considered high even for the luxury segment. The reviewer's verdict is overwhelmingly positive regarding the passenger experience, deeming the rear cabin "next level" and a place where one would "find excuses to go out and sit in it," though the driver's cockpit is considered an "afterthought" in comparison. less

Ionna Totally Gets It! Convenience Store, Driver Lounge, and 400kW Pull-Through Charging

This video provides an in-depth tour of IONNA's new Rechargery in Garner, North Carolina, highlighting its premium amenities and high-power charg... moreing capabilities. The reviewer is particularly impressed with the seamless integration of an unmanned convenience store utilizing Amazon's walkout technology, a comfortable driver's lounge, and the 400kW Alpitronic DC fast chargers. The site's design, which revitalized a former gas station, offers pull-through bays and ample space for future expansion. Key takeaways include IONNA's commitment to customer experience with features like trash cans and windshield washer fluid stations, their rapid network expansion ('IONNA speed'), and their hardware-agnostic approach. The reviewer praises the site's power infrastructure, noting the 2500 KVA transformer, and the thoughtful amenities that elevate the EV charging experience beyond basic functionality. The video also touches on the operational aspects, including power management, utilization rates, and the dual approach of partnering with local businesses or offering self-service markets. less

The End

The Out of Spec team bids a final farewell to their Tesla Cybertruck, a vehicle that has been a source of both enjoyment and significant frustration. ... moreDespite its innovative technology, impressive sound system, and unique design, this particular unit was plagued by numerous issues, ultimately leading to a lemon law buyback by Tesla. The most critical problems included the failure of the rear drive unit, a major electrical system fault, and a persistent front-end clunking noise that remained unresolved. While the team appreciated the Cybertruck's performance and utility, especially its power export capabilities and spacious interior, the unreliability and unresolved issues overshadowed the positives. Tesla's buyback offer, providing full MSRP back minus a mileage deduction, is viewed as a fair resolution, especially considering the potential depreciation. The experience highlights the challenges of early adoption with new vehicle models, particularly from Tesla, where software and hardware issues can significantly impact ownership. less

Nearly Every New Car In Norway Is Electric! You Won’t Believe How Many You See Here

This video provides an in-depth look at the overwhelming adoption of electric vehicles in Bergen, Norway, highlighting that 50% of cars on the road ar... moree now pure battery electric, with new car sales exceeding 95%. The reviewer explores various EV models seen in parking lots and discusses the key drivers behind this trend: significant tax incentives, low electricity prices (largely from hydropower), and high gasoline prices. While acknowledging the convenience and growing used EV market, the video also touches on challenges like the need for accessible charging infrastructure, especially for apartment dwellers, and the continued demand for diesel in specific use cases like long-distance towing. The reviewer praises the extensive slow AC charging network in parking garages and the overall stability of Norway's power grid, concluding that EVs are not just a trend but a practical and preferred choice for a majority of Norwegians. less

Unveiling Version 2 Of My Tesla Model S Plaid!

The reviewer provides an in-depth look at the "version 2" of his Tesla Model S Plaid, focusing on significant upgrades made after nearly thr... moreee years of ownership. The most striking change is a full satin black paint protection film (PPF) wrap, which masterfully hides extensive rock chip damage and revitalizes the car's appearance, making it look brand new. This was achieved using a special color-infused PPF from Drive Protected, a solution to the issue of wrapping over damaged paint. The second major upgrade is the Tesla Track Pack carbon ceramic brake system, a $15,000 option that cost the reviewer approximately $4,000 out-of-pocket due to referral credits. This upgrade is crucial for track use, unlocking a 200 mph top speed and significantly improving braking performance, though the reviewer expresses concern about potential overheating and wear. While acknowledging the car's substantial depreciation and past reliability issues, the reviewer expresses a renewed enthusiasm for the Model S Plaid, particularly in anticipation of a head-to-head comparison with the Lucid Sapphire and Porsche Taycan Turbo GT. The car is praised for its mind-bending speed and improved handling with the new brakes and wheel/tire setup, making it a compelling, albeit financially challenging, long-distance and occasional track car. less

My First Ionna Road Trip To 4 Stations! This Is The EV Charging Experience We've All Been Wanting

The reviewer embarks on a road trip to evaluate the new IONNA charging network, visiting four locations along I-70 in Kansas and Missouri. The IONNA n... moreetwork is praised for its customer-focused, high-power DCFC experience, aiming to serve all EV drivers. The 'Relay' level sites, featuring canopies, nearby amenities, and well-lit areas, are highlighted as a significant improvement over older charging infrastructure, even rivaling Tesla's Supercharger network in some aspects. The reviewer specifically commends the Alpronic Hyperchargers, the quality of the Amphenol liquid-cooled cables, and the thoughtful inclusion of amenities like trash cans, windshield washers, and dog parks. While the network is new and not yet widely known, the consistent reliability and ease of use across the visited sites are major positives. The pricing at 39 cents per kWh is deemed reasonable, especially considering the quality of the experience. The reviewer expresses optimism that IONNA will become a leading charging network in the US, comparable to Tesla's Superchargers, provided they maintain this high standard and expand their network effectively. less

Everything I Love & Hate About Our New Rivian R1S After Driving It 1,000 Miles Home

After 1,000 miles on a road trip, the Rivian R1S (Gen 2) presents a mixed bag of improvements and persistent issues. Positives include significantly e... morenhanced headlight performance with impressive adaptive high beams, a more livable, though still not premium, sound system, and improved software stability. The interior, particularly the Ocean Coast spec, is lauded as gorgeous. However, major drawbacks persist. Real-world highway efficiency falls far short of the EPA estimate, achieving only around 1.8-2.0 miles per kWh instead of the expected 2.8-2.9. Charging performance is also a significant disappointment, with peak charging speeds around 210 kW and slow charging curves, especially at higher states of charge, making road trips lengthy. The driving dynamics are a major concern, with the vehicle described as "nervous" and exhibiting excessive sway and body heave on the highway, a stark contrast to the R1T. Build quality issues, including squeaky door handles and multiple interior rattles on a new, expensive vehicle, are also highlighted. While the vehicle offers impressive capability and looks, these fundamental issues detract from its premium appeal. less

Full Tour Act 2025: EVs and Charging That Are Making Electric Fleet Adoption Possible

This video provides an in-depth tour of the ACT Expo 2025, focusing on advancements in electric fleet adoption, charging infrastructure, and alternati... moreve clean transportation technologies. The hosts highlight key innovations from companies like Tridium, Infy Power, Eaton, Delta, and Kemp Power, showcasing new high-power charging solutions, battery storage systems, and modular power electronics. A significant portion of the review is dedicated to Tridium's comeback with their new DC-fed charger, emphasizing its increased power density and modularity. The video also touches upon the evolving landscape of fleet electrification, acknowledging the continued presence of hydrogen and compressed natural gas alongside battery-electric solutions, influenced by shifting government policies. While the review covers a broad spectrum of commercial EV tech, it lacks specific vehicle model details, focusing primarily on the charging and infrastructure side. less

Our New Rivian R1S Factory Delivery Experience!

The "Out of Spec" team takes delivery of their new Gen 2 Rivian R1S at the factory in Normal, Illinois. The video highlights the factory del... moreivery experience and provides an in-depth look at the vehicle's specifications and features, with a particular focus on the new owner, Scott's, perspective as a relatively new EV driver. The R1S is specced with the Max Pack for extended range and the Dark Out package, featuring 22-inch sport wheels and the Ocean Coast interior. A significant point of discussion is the unexpected free performance upgrade, which was applied to this inventory vehicle, unlocking enhanced acceleration and rally mode. While the team praises the R1S's utility, towing capability, and the improvements in the Gen 2 suspension and software, a minor rattle is discovered early on. The reviewer notes the vehicle's impressive range, the convenience of the phone-as-key feature, and the improved ride quality due to recent over-the-air updates. The video also touches upon the challenges of public charging infrastructure and the benefits of home charging. 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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