Electric Vehicle Man

Lexus UX300E - Oh Dear, Oh Dear!

The Lexus UX300e refresh brings a larger battery but fails to address critical EV shortcomings, making it a questionable proposition. While the interi... moreor boasts excellent build quality and premium materials, the exterior design is polarizing and described as messy. The most significant drawback is the continued use of CHAdeMO charging in 2023, rendering rapid charging impractical given the scarcity of CHAdeMO stations. This, coupled with mediocre efficiency (around 2.9 miles/kWh) and a high price point (up to £57,995 for the tested model), severely limits its appeal for long journeys. The reviewer suggests that for the price, alternatives like the MG4 or Tesla Model 3 offer far better value and charging infrastructure. Despite a comfortable ride and pleasant driving dynamics, the UX300e's fundamental flaws, particularly the charging standard, make it difficult to recommend, especially as a company car. less

Getting My Heat Pump System Ready For Winter!

This video provides a practical, non-professional guide to preparing a home heat pump system for winter. The reviewer emphasizes simple, user-doable m... moreaintenance tasks, focusing on ensuring all radiators are functioning correctly and efficiently. Key takeaways include the importance of maximizing radiator surface area for optimal heat output at lower water temperatures, the benefit of keeping all radiators open for system balance, and a stress-testing approach to identify potential issues before the coldest months. The reviewer also touches upon managing smart TRVs and optimizing the heat pump schedule for off-peak electricity tariffs, particularly Octopus Intelligent. While the reviewer acknowledges the system was designed properly for their home, the core message is about proactive, basic maintenance to ensure efficiency and cost savings, applicable to both heat pumps and traditional gas boilers. less

Peugeot E-2008 - Insert Generic Car Statement Here

The Peugeot e-2008, after a mild update, remains a competent if unexciting compact electric SUV. The reviewer praises its attractive exterior styling ... moreand the practical improvements like door seals that prevent dirty ankles. Inside, while the materials are durable, the reviewer notes the familiar Peugeot quirk of needing to look over the steering wheel to see the digital cockpit, and finds the infotainment system less intuitive than desired. The black gloss trim is criticized for being a fingerprint magnet. In terms of performance, the updated motor and battery offer a slight range improvement, estimated at 140-200 miles in mixed conditions, with charging capped at 100kW. The ride quality is highlighted as a positive, absorbing bumps well and offering a quiet cabin. However, the primary critique centers on its value proposition. Priced close to £40,000 for the press car, it faces stiff competition from rivals like the MG4, MG ZS EV, Citroen e-C4, and Jeep Avenger, which offer more personality, better range, or a lower price point. The reviewer concludes that while the e-2008 is a perfectly functional A-to-B car that does its job without complaint, it lacks a distinct USP or emotional appeal, making it a 'vanilla ice cream' choice in a highly competitive market, best considered if found with significant discounts. less

Car Insurance Has Gone Nuts!!! Anything To Negate The Increase?

The video addresses the alarming surge in car insurance premiums, particularly impacting electric vehicles, though the issue is widespread. The presen... moreter shares personal experience of a nearly 40% increase and highlights even more drastic hikes reported by viewers, with some doubling or increasing by over 100%. The core message is that while external factors like rising car prices, labor costs, and insurer losses contribute, there are actionable steps individuals can take. Key recommendations include diligently shopping around for better quotes, accurately adjusting declared annual mileage, and optimizing job titles for potentially lower rates. The presenter also advises reviewing policy excesses and carefully considering optional add-ons like guaranteed courtesy cars, suggesting many are unnecessary upselling. A surprising point is that adding a named driver, especially a safer one, can sometimes reduce premiums. The video concludes by lamenting the potential for insurance costs to price people out of car ownership and expresses concern about the future, especially for young drivers. less

Heat Pump - One Complete Year Running Costs!

This video provides a comprehensive one-year review of a 5kW heat pump's running costs and energy consumption. The reviewer debunks common myths,... more emphasizing that heat pumps do not require 24/7 high-power operation and that hyper-insulation isn't a prerequisite for installation, though it improves efficiency. A key takeaway is the critical importance of a proper, in-depth survey by the installer to ensure correct system sizing and radiator compatibility. The reviewer highlights that their heat pump, running at lower temperatures, consumed 3,486 kWh for heating and hot water over 12 months and two weeks. Crucially, the low running cost of £282 for the year is attributed to a combination of a time-of-day electricity tariff (7.5p/kWh for 6 hours, ~30p/kWh otherwise), a 19kWh home battery system, and solar panels. Without these, the cost would significantly increase, potentially exceeding £1,000 annually at higher tariffs. The reviewer estimates annual gas costs for their previous boiler were around £950, indicating a saving of £600-£700 per year with the heat pump, a saving made more impactful by the integrated renewable energy systems. The initial installation cost was approximately £8,000, about £4,500 more than a gas boiler, but the long-term savings and environmental benefits are deemed worthwhile for their 'forever house'. The reviewer stresses that successful heat pump implementation hinges entirely on correct planning and installation. less

Jeep Avenger Electric - Way Better Than It Should Be!

The Jeep Avenger electric SUV is surprisingly competent and appealing, exceeding initial expectations. The reviewer highlights its strong personality,... more distinctive styling with functional design elements like protective plastic cladding, and good ground clearance, despite being primarily a road car. While sharing underpinnings with other Stellantis EVs, the Avenger stands out with its unique Jeep DNA and a more engaging aesthetic. The interior is praised for its solid build quality, user-friendly physical buttons, and a decent infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, particularly in the top-spec trim. Practicality is noted as adequate for its size, with a usable boot, though rear passenger space is somewhat compromised by a transmission tunnel. Performance is described as brisk for urban driving but tapers off at higher speeds. The handling is competent for its class, offering a comfortable, albeit slightly soft, ride. The reviewer concludes that while not excelling in every area, the Avenger avoids disappointment and offers a compelling package, especially considering its pricing relative to competitors. It's recommended for a test drive, with the reviewer expressing a personal liking for its character and suggesting it might hold its value well. less

Big Discounts On Electric Cars!

The video highlights significant discounts available on new electric vehicles, contrasting the current buyer's market with the previous shortage-... moredriven seller's market. The presenter meticulously lists various models from different manufacturers, detailing their original list prices and discounted prices, often sourced from Auto Trader as a baseline. Notable discounts include the Audi e-tron (both 50 Technik and 55 Black Edition), the Peugeot e-208 and e-2008 with substantial £10,000 reductions, and the Vauxhall Corsa SE Premium dropping to an attractive sub-£20,000 price point. While many discounts are attributed to outgoing models, even Tesla is offering reductions on the Model 3 and Model Y, with the Model 3 set for a "Highland" update. The review emphasizes that these listed prices are starting points and encourages buyers to negotiate, suggesting that the used EV market also presents good opportunities. less

Renault Megane E-Tech - A Slap In The Face For Its Rivals!

The Renault Megane e-Tech is presented as a strong contender in the electric hatchback segment, aiming to challenge rivals with its distinctive French... more design and practical features. The reviewer highlights its surprisingly compact dimensions despite an SUV-like appearance, making it agile for urban environments. Positives include a well-integrated and attractive interior with a dual-screen setup, comfortable seating (on the tested trim), and standard heated seats and steering wheel. The driving experience is described as balanced, offering a firm yet comfortable ride suitable for city driving, with direct steering and well-managed power delivery that avoids overwhelming the driver. Negatives include a fiddly boot release mechanism, a comical rear wiper, and a high waistline with small rear windows impacting rear visibility. The reviewer also notes the brakes can feel grabby. Despite initial skepticism about depreciation, the reviewer concludes that the Megane e-Tech offers excellent value, particularly the base model starting around £32,000, positioning it favorably against competitors like the VW ID.3 and Cupra Born. Real-world range in mixed conditions is estimated at over 200 miles from the 60 kWh battery, comparable to a Tesla Model 3 standard range but potentially less efficient on longer runs. less

What Is The Point Of A Sub-100 Mile Range Electric Car?

The reviewer explores the viability of electric cars with sub-100-mile real-world range, focusing on the Renault Zoe. The core argument is that such v... moreehicles are practical and cost-effective as second cars, provided the owner can charge at home. The Zoe's 85-mile average range is presented not as a limitation, but as sufficient for daily commuting and local errands, significantly reducing running costs compared to a petrol or diesel counterpart. Key benefits highlighted include extremely low running costs (around £20 per 1000 miles on a cheap tariff), minimal maintenance, and preserving the mileage on a more expensive primary vehicle. The reviewer debunks concerns about battery degradation and lifespan, emphasizing that modern EV batteries, even on older models, are designed to outlast their warranty periods and can be repaired. The primary caveats are the necessity of home charging and the car being a secondary vehicle, making it unsuitable as a sole car for most users. less

The New VW ID.3 Driven - Is It Knocking On Teslas/MGs Door?

The reviewer finds the facelifted VW ID.3 to be a significant improvement over its predecessor, addressing key criticisms, particularly regarding the ... moreinterior quality. While acknowledging the exterior tweaks are subtle, they enhance the car's appearance. The interior now features softer materials and a more premium feel, though the continued use of gloss black surfaces and haptic buttons are noted as drawbacks. The infotainment system, while still not perfect, is described as a massive upgrade from its buggy launch state. Driving dynamics are deemed comfortable, relaxing, and reliable, fitting for a family car, with improved efficiency noted, offering a real-world range of approximately 170-220 miles year-round. Despite its improvements, the reviewer highlights strong competition from the Tesla Model 3 (for its network) and the MG4 (for its aggressive pricing), ultimately concluding that the ID.3 is now a competitive and well-valued offering, feeling like a finished product. less

Abarth 500 Electric! I Might Buy One Eventually.

The Abarth 500e is presented as the first true electric hot hatch, built on the Fiat 500e platform but with a sportier focus. The reviewer highlights ... moreits aggressive styling, improved handling with revised suspension, and a surprisingly engaging driving experience for an EV. While acknowledging its small size and limited rear passenger space, the car is praised for its 'fun without being dangerous' character, sharp steering, and strong mid-range acceleration. The controversial synthesized engine noise is noted as an external feature that may divide opinion. The top-spec model, with its Alcantara interior and premium features, is recommended for those seeking a more special experience. Despite the premium pricing, the reviewer suggests it offers good value, especially on the used market, due to its unique position and lower running costs compared to its petrol counterparts. The car is deemed a great daily driver with personality, exceeding expectations for its intended purpose. less

I've Bought An Electric Car For Less Than £5k!

The reviewer successfully purchased an electric vehicle for under £5,000, specifically a 2016 Renault Zoe Dynamic Nav with less than 36,000 miles for ... more£4,400. This model is battery-owned, not leased, which was a key consideration. The car is surprisingly newer than anticipated and, remarkably, comes with an extended full warranty from Renault until April 2024. The reviewer highlights the challenge of finding affordable EVs, noting the limited selection below £5,000, primarily consisting of Nissan Leafs and Renault Zoes. While the initial purchase was successful, the full range test and detailed assessment of the car's condition, including air conditioning and motor, will be covered in a subsequent video. The reviewer emphasizes the importance of patience, willingness to travel, and utilizing tools like Auto Trader's advert history to find potential deals. less

The Best Home Battery Ecosystem For Me

The reviewer, EVM, details his decision to replace his existing GivEnergy home battery system with a newer, larger 19.5 kWh Gen 3 hybrid setup. While ... moresatisfied with his previous system, he sought an upgrade due to increased electricity consumption from a new heat pump. The core of his decision-making process revolves around the 'ecosystem' – the integrated app and control over solar, battery, and EV charging. After evaluating Tesla Powerwall and My Energy Libby, EVM ultimately chose another GivEnergy system. He highlights GivEnergy's advantage in manufacturing its components in-house, offering better value and control. Tesla was ruled out due to cost, long lead times, and a perceived lack of ecosystem growth. My Energy Libby was deemed significantly more expensive for comparable hardware, with its software based on a K-Star product. EVM praises GivEnergy's British ownership, comprehensive warranty, and crucially, its local control capabilities, allowing operation even if cloud servers are down. The reviewer emphasizes that for him, GivEnergy offers the best value and a complete, integrated ecosystem. less

Now Is A Good Time To Buy A Used Electric Car! Here's A List!

The reviewer asserts that now is an opportune moment to purchase a used electric vehicle, as the market has normalized after a period of artificial va... morelue retention due to supply chain issues. The video highlights a curated list of compelling used EV options, ranging from budget-friendly choices like the Renault Zoe and Volkswagen e-Up, to more substantial offerings such as the Hyundai Kona, Kia Niro, and even the Audi e-tron. The presenter emphasizes that current used EV prices reflect a return to traditional depreciation curves rather than a market collapse, making them attractive investments. Key considerations like battery leasing, real-world range, and warranty coverage are discussed for each model. The overall sentiment is that the market has bottomed out, presenting a window of opportunity for buyers seeking value. less

Citroën ë-C4 X - The Most Underrated EV! - With A Bigger Battery Option Now!

The Citroën ë-C4 X is presented as a highly underrated EV, particularly when considering its competitive pricing against other Stellantis group models... more and rivals like the MG4. The reviewer highlights its unique styling, a blend of hatchback, crossover, and saloon elements, which, while unusual, is ultimately found appealing. A significant advantage is its exceptional comfort, attributed to the progressive hydraulic cushions, which the reviewer states is unmatched in its price category, even surpassing cars twice its cost. The practicality of the larger boot in the X variant over the standard hatch is also noted. However, criticisms include a lack of a percentage display for battery range in the instrument cluster (though available when plugged in), a basic interior with some hard plastics, and a preference for a traditional gear lever over the current selector. The steering feel is described as very light in normal modes, though it stiffens in sport, but the lack of feedback is deemed acceptable given the car's comfort-oriented nature. The reviewer also points out the absence of built-in navigation and DAB radio, though acknowledges that most users will opt for smartphone integration. A significant upcoming update is the introduction of a larger 54 kWh battery option, paired with a more efficient motor, promising an additional 40 miles of range for an estimated £1,000 premium, which is strongly recommended. Despite its quirks and the strong value proposition of the MG4, the ë-C4 X's comfort and unique character make it a compelling, albeit unconventional, choice. less

The True Cost Of Electric Car Fuel - Hybrid vs Plug-In Hybrid vs Battery Electric Vehicle

This video provides a comprehensive, real-world cost comparison between the Kia Niro Hybrid (HEV), Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), and Battery Electric Vehicle... more (BEV) over several weeks of testing. The primary focus is on fuel costs per mile, revealing that while the BEV is generally the cheapest to run, especially when charged at home on a favorable tariff, its cost-effectiveness is significantly diminished if reliant solely on public charging. The PHEV offers little to no cost advantage over the standard HEV when using the standard price cap electricity tariff, though it becomes cheaper on specific time-of-use tariffs. The review highlights that the HEV remains a viable and cost-effective option, particularly if home charging for a BEV is not feasible. A key takeaway is that the 'cheapest' car to buy may not be the cheapest to run, and the decision hinges heavily on individual charging capabilities and driving habits. The reviewer also touches on driving dynamics, finding the BEV offers the most power and refinement, while the PHEV is more engaging than the HEV due to its smaller petrol engine. less

EV Owners Shock Over Overstay Fines

The reviewer critically examines a Times newspaper article concerning electric vehicle (EV) overstay fines. While acknowledging the importance of the ... moretopic, the reviewer disputes the article's sensationalist framing, particularly the use of terms like 'shock' and 'nasty penalties.' They argue that overstay fees are not new and have been advocated for by EV owners and industry figures for years to ensure charger availability. The reviewer deconstructs a specific example of a van driver fined £123, positing that it was a parking fine for leaving a vehicle at a service station overnight, not an overstay charge from a charging network. The reviewer suggests the article misunderstands the difference between destination and rapid chargers, and that the van driver's situation was a result of poor planning and arrogance rather than a systemic issue with EV charging fees. The core message is that while overstay fees are necessary and welcomed by the EV community, the article misrepresents the situation and the reasons behind the charges. less

Subaru Solterra Electric - Subaru Good! Toyota Bad!

The Subaru Solterra, Subaru's first all-electric SUV, is a capable vehicle with genuine off-road credentials and excellent ground clearance, dist... moreinguishing it from many faux SUVs. It offers a comfortable ride, ample interior and boot space suitable for families, and standard features like heated seats and steering wheel, which are appreciated for colder climates. However, the review highlights significant drawbacks, particularly concerning its EV technology, which is largely attributed to Toyota's involvement. The Solterra suffers from poor efficiency, resulting in a real-world range of only around 150-175 miles from its 64 kWh battery, which is considered unacceptable for a £50,000 vehicle in 2022-23. Furthermore, its charging capability is severely limited, topping out at a mere 70 kW on 400V chargers and dropping drastically after 40% charge on faster 800V chargers, making rapid charging impractical. The interior, while functional and comfortable, is criticized for using cheap, scratchy plastics and a busy, unintuitive infotainment system, failing to justify the premium price point. The reviewer concludes that while it excels as a rugged SUV, it fails as a modern EV, recommending alternatives like the Mustang Mach-E, Hyundai Ioniq 5, or Kia EV6. less

Electric Cars Are Just Kill The World And Set On Fire

This video tackles common negative myths and misinformation surrounding electric vehicles (EVs), such as fire risks, environmental impact, and range a... morenxiety. The presenter systematically debunks these claims using data and logical reasoning, contrasting them with the realities of internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Key arguments include that EVs have a lower fire risk than ICE cars, the environmental impact of battery production is often exaggerated and mirrored in oil extraction, and range loss in winter is manageable with common sense. The presenter highlights that many criticisms are either outdated, misinformed, or deliberately sensationalized for views, particularly from certain online communities. While acknowledging that EV infrastructure needs improvement, the video strongly advocates for a more rational and evidence-based discussion about the technology's benefits and challenges. less

Heat Pumps In Winter - The Running Costs!

This video provides a detailed breakdown of the running costs for a heat pump system over the winter months, directly addressing common concerns about... more efficiency and expense. The reviewer, EVM, meticulously tracks electricity consumption for both heating and hot water, comparing it against estimated gas boiler costs. Key findings indicate that the heat pump, despite a particularly cold December, proved to be more economical than the previous gas system, even when factoring in higher off-peak electricity rates. The reviewer highlights the system's efficiency, noting a COP of 3.8 for heating and 2.8 for hot water as worst-case winter scenarios. While acknowledging the significant upfront installation cost, the video suggests that the long-term savings, especially when combined with solar panels and home battery systems on time-of-day tariffs, can justify the investment. The reviewer debunks myths about defrosting elements and emphasizes the importance of proper heat calculations and installation for optimal performance. less

VW ID Buzz - I Want One! - Wait! How Much???

The VW ID Buzz is lauded for its undeniable coolness and retro appeal, drawing significant attention and admiration. While previous ID models have bee... moren criticized for their interiors relative to their price, the ID Buzz, particularly in its "Pro" trim, manages to overcome this with its unique character and practicality. The reviewer highlights the spacious and versatile interior, suitable for camping or hauling, and praises the improved material choices and thoughtful features like the "Buzz Box" console, suggesting a new interior team may be at play. Driving dynamics are described as car-like and surprisingly quick, with excellent visibility. However, the infotainment system's haptic buttons and invisible controls remain a significant drawback, especially at night. The most substantial criticism is the price, with the reviewed model costing a staggering £71,000, making it significantly more expensive than comparable performance EVs. Despite the high cost, the reviewer expresses a strong desire for the vehicle, acknowledging its unique appeal and potential for strong residual values, but ultimately questions its affordability and value proposition. less

Testing Electric Car Chargers Down The A1 (270 Miles)

This video details a 270-mile road trip testing rapid EV chargers along the A1. The reviewer found a significant failure rate, with 5 out of 16 rapid ... morechargers not working, equating to nearly a third. While chargers at major service stations performed well, they were consistently full, often with queues, indicating a growing strain on the network. The reviewer highlights that most chargers encountered were the slower 50kW type, significantly impacting charging times for EVs capable of much faster speeds. The core issues identified are the insufficient number of chargers, particularly at service areas, and the prevalence of slower charging technology, which is not keeping pace with the rapid advancement and adoption of EVs. The reviewer advocates for a legislative body to oversee charger deployment and speed, suggesting a minimum of 150kW, ideally 300kW 800V chargers, at service areas to meet future demand. less

Genesis GV70 - A Lesson For European EVs?

The Genesis GV70 Electrified is presented as a larger, potentially superior sibling to the well-regarded GV60. However, the review highlights signific... moreant compromises due to its shared platform with internal combustion engine variants, making it feel oversized for UK roads. While the interior impresses with premium materials, a sophisticated design, and a feature-rich infotainment system, the exterior is noted as somewhat nondescript, and the boot space is surprisingly limited given the car's dimensions. Performance is undeniably strong, with rapid acceleration thanks to dual motors and an 800-volt architecture enabling fast charging. Yet, the chassis struggles to cope with this power, leading to a jiggly ride and unsettled dynamics on uneven surfaces, even in Comfort mode. The reviewer questions the GV70's purpose, suggesting the smaller, ground-up EV GV60 offers a more cohesive and efficient package for the UK market, despite the GV70's premium feel and exclusivity. Ultimately, while a comfortable and technologically advanced EV, its size and compromised chassis prevent it from being a clear recommendation over rivals like the BMW iX3 or Jaguar I-PACE, or even its own smaller sibling. less

Best Used Plug-In Hybrids In 2023

This video explores the used plug-in hybrid market in 2023, focusing on vehicles under £20,000. The reviewer highlights that while plug-in hybrids can... more be divisive, they offer a viable option, especially for those who can charge at home. The video systematically reviews various models, starting with budget-friendly options like the Toyota Prius Plug-In and BMW 2 Series 225xe, emphasizing their reliability despite high mileage. More premium options such as the Vauxhall Ampera, Mitsubishi Outlander, BMW i3, Volkswagen Golf GTE, BMW 330e, Audi A3, Kia Optima, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, and BMW 530e are also discussed, with the reviewer noting their varying pros and cons, including practicality, performance, and aesthetics. The video concludes by touching upon the inflated prices in the used plug-in hybrid market and features the BMW i8 as a more aspirational, albeit expensive, option. The reviewer's overall sentiment is that while not always bargains, used plug-in hybrids offer a practical and often reliable choice for many buyers. less

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Let's Be Real About Heat Pumps!

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This Is The Best Home Battery + Solar PV System For Me!

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