Branden Flasch, formerly known as "EV Nomads," is a seasoned voice in the electric vehicle community. With extensive personal experience driving a range of EVs, including the Tesla Model Y, Ford F150 Lightning, Tesla Model S, VW ID.4, and more, Flasch brings a deep understanding of the electric driving landscape.
This distributor specializes in sharing insights on new EV models, the nuances of EV charging, and practical advice for electric vehicle travel. Leveraging years of hands-on experience and professional involvement in the EV charging industry, Branden Flasch offers a knowledgeable and engaging perspective for EV enthusiasts and those considering the transition to electric mobility.
This distributor specializes in sharing insights on new EV models, the nuances of EV charging, and practical advice for electric vehicle travel. Leveraging years of hands-on experience and professional involvement in the EV charging industry, Branden Flasch offers a knowledgeable and engaging perspective for EV enthusiasts and those considering the transition to electric mobility.
Farewell ID.4 - The Truth About The VW ID.4 After 1 Year and 16k Miles
After one year and 16,000 miles, the reviewer concludes that the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 Pro S RWD, while possessing good hardware and offering a comfortable ride suitable for long distances, is significantly let down by its software. Key criticisms include the lack of one-pedal driving, the absence...
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Vlog 19 - I Ran My Tesla Completely Dead
In this vlog, Branden Flasch recounts an unexpected day trip that led to his Tesla running completely out of electricity just miles from home. While t... morehe initial plan involved exploring Sedona and Flagstaff, a navigation detour and an unreliable "ChadeMO" charger in Cottonwood (which turned out to be J1772) complicated the journey. The reviewer highlights the beauty of the Flagstaff area and expresses a desire to return. The primary takeaway is a cautionary tale about range anxiety and the importance of leaving a buffer, following the car's speed recommendations, and always carrying charging adapters. Despite the stressful situation of running out of power, the reviewer was assisted by members of the Arizona Tesla Club who helped tow the car and jump the 12V battery to reach a destination charger. The video concludes with the car safely back in the garage, emphasizing the lessons learned about preparation and respecting the vehicle's range limitations. less
Tesla Roadtrip Part 11 - The Finale! - Los Angeles to Home!
This video marks the conclusion of an extensive road trip, detailing the final leg from Los Angeles to Mesa, Arizona. The reviewer highlights the chal... morelenges and nuances of navigating Tesla's Supercharger network, particularly noting the temporary closure of the Beaumont, CA Supercharger and the construction at the Cabazon location, which necessitated the use of mobile pallet chargers. The Pasadena Supercharger is praised as the largest DC fast charging installation in California, a public-private partnership enabling charging for all EVs. The reviewer also shares practical tips, such as parking validation at the Pasadena Supercharger through Starbucks. Despite some charging speed inconsistencies and high temperatures, the journey concludes successfully, with the reviewer reaching home after over 12,000 miles. The video ends with a "12-volt service" warning, a minor concern as the trip concludes. less
Tesla Road Trip Part 10 - SF Bay to Los Angeles! Kettleman City, Flat Tire, Oh My!
This video documents a road trip from the San Francisco Bay Area to Los Angeles in a Tesla Model S, highlighting several Supercharger stops and an une... morexpected flat tire incident. The reviewer provides a detailed account of charging experiences, noting the presence of amenities like dedicated lounges and solar canopies at some locations, such as Kettleman City. A significant portion of the video is dedicated to the practicalities of dealing with a flat tire on the road, including the repair process using a tire plug kit and air compressor, demonstrating the vehicle's self-sufficiency. The journey also features scenic detours and visits to points of interest like Apple Park (with drone footage) and the Tesla Fremont factory. While the reviewer doesn't explicitly state a 'verdict' on the car itself, the narrative focuses on the practicalities and occasional challenges of EV road-tripping, with the tire repair being a key event. The video showcases the car's ability to handle such issues and continue the journey. less
Tesla Road Trip Part 9 - Reno to SF Bay via Lake Tahoe!
This video documents a road trip from Reno, Nevada, to the San Francisco Bay Area in a 2015 Tesla Model S 70D. The reviewer meticulously details their... more journey, focusing on the numerous Supercharger stops made along the route, including locations in Lake Tahoe, Truckee, Rocklin, Roseville, Sacramento, Vacaville, Fairfield, Vallejo, Novato, Corte Madera, Daly City, South San Francisco, San Mateo, San Carlos, Menlo Park, Palo Alto, and Mountain View. The reviewer notes the varying types and capacities of Supercharger installations, from older V2 units to newer urban Superchargers, and comments on their locations, such as at service centers, shopping centers, and even near the Computer History Museum. While the video primarily serves as a travelogue with a data-driven approach to charging, it highlights the extensive Supercharger network's capability to support long-distance travel in California. No specific pros or cons of the vehicle itself are discussed beyond its model year and trim, and the focus remains on the charging infrastructure and the journey. less
Tesla Road Trip Part 8 - Salt Lake to Reno with Detour to Tesla Gigafactory
This video documents a road trip from Salt Lake City to Reno, Nevada, with a detour to the Tesla Gigafactory. The reviewer, driving a 2015 Tesla Model... more S 70D, provides a detailed account of the charging stops, including issues encountered with charging speeds and battery temperature, particularly at the West Wendover and Lovelock Superchargers. The reviewer notes the car's age and potential degradation, including AC performance issues during charging. Despite these challenges, the journey covers significant mileage, with the reviewer highlighting the convenience of Superchargers and the scenic, albeit sometimes monotonous, Nevada landscape. The detour to the Gigafactory, though brief, adds an interesting point of interest for EV enthusiasts. The video offers practical insights into long-distance EV travel with an older model, emphasizing the importance of monitoring charging performance and managing expectations. less
Tesla Road Trip Part 7 - Salida, CO to Salt Lake City, UT via Denver, CO
This video documents a segment of a road trip from Salida, Colorado, to Salt Lake City, Utah, with an overnight stop in Denver. The reviewer, Branden ... moreFlasch, details his charging stops at various Tesla Superchargers across Colorado and Wyoming, including Thornton, Loveland, Laramie, Rawlins, Rock Springs, and Evanston. The journey is characterized by long stretches of driving and practical considerations like charging times and overnight stays in the vehicle. Flasch notes the convenience of Superchargers located near amenities like fast food and hotels. A notable incident involved unexpected traffic congestion, which he navigated by turning around. Upon arrival in Salt Lake City, he checks into a moderately priced hotel with Tesla destination charging and enjoys a local meal. The video provides a realistic look at long-distance EV travel, focusing on the logistical aspects rather than dynamic driving impressions. less
Tesla Road Trip Part 6 Seattle WA to Salida CO via Denver
This video documents the sixth leg of a road trip from Seattle, WA to Salida, CO, with a detour to Denver. The reviewer, Branden Flasch, navigates thr... moreough various Tesla Supercharger locations across Washington, Oregon, and Utah, providing practical insights into charging times, station amenities, and route planning. Key observations include the prevalence of V3 Superchargers, the convenience of Superchargers located at malls and service centers, and the importance of verifying charging status. The journey highlights the challenges of long-distance EV travel, such as unexpected charging delays and the need for buffer charge, especially when relying on unknown charging equipment. The reviewer also touches upon the impact of weather on charging and driving efficiency. The latter part of the video focuses on troubleshooting a Jeep's battery issue in Denver before finally heading towards the destination in Salida, CO, with a brief mention of drafting the Jeep for efficiency. less
Tesla Road Trip Detour: Exploring Seattle
This video documents a road trip detour through Seattle, focusing on visits to Pike Place Market (including the first Starbucks) and the Capitol Hill ... moreAutonomous Zone (CHAZ) on June 14, 2020. The reviewer, Branden Flasch, provides a first-person perspective of these locations. The footage is minimally edited, offering a raw, POV experience. The visit to CHAZ is described as peaceful, with observations of free ice cream distribution by Ben & Jerry's and various peaceful gatherings, music, and speakers. The video's primary purpose is to share the experience of these stops, rather than a detailed vehicle review. The reviewer seeks feedback on this video style for road trip segments. less
Tesla Road Trip Part 5 - Power Outage in Montana
This installment of the road trip series documents the journey from Minnesota to Washington, highlighting several charging challenges and unique roads... moreide experiences. The reviewer encounters a critical low-charge situation, arriving at a Supercharger with 0% battery, and navigates a temporary closure of a Supercharger in Oacoma, South Dakota, by taking a calculated risk to visit the site, which ultimately proves functional. The video also captures an unexpected power outage at a Supercharger in Butte, Montana, which temporarily halts charging. Other notable events include a traffic stop in South Dakota for speeding and an unplanned tire rotation in Billings, Montana, due to uneven wear. The reviewer consistently uses Tesla's in-car navigation and TeslaFi for data, noting the importance of cell service for data collection. The overall tone is informative, focusing on the practicalities and occasional frustrations of long-distance EV travel. less
Tesla Road Trip Part 4 Roanoke Rapids NC to Minneapolis MN
This video documents the fourth leg of a road trip from North Carolina to Minneapolis, focusing on the charging stops and driving experience. The revi... moreewer, Brandon Flash, highlights the practicalities of navigating Tesla's Supercharger network, often deviating from the car's suggested routes for efficiency. He encounters various charging locations, predominantly at "Sheets" gas stations and "Meijer" grocery stores, noting the convenience of 24-hour facilities. The reviewer expresses frustration with Tesla's navigation system at times, emphasizing the need for manual route adjustments to optimize charging times and avoid unnecessary stops. He also touches on the legality of radar detectors in Virginia and the challenges of charging in inclement weather. The video provides a detailed, albeit lengthy, account of the journey, offering insights into real-world EV travel planning and execution. less
Tesla Road Trip Part 3 - Daytona Beach, FL to Roanoke Rapids, NC
This video documents a road trip from Daytona Beach, Florida, to Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina, in a 2015 Tesla Model S 70D. The reviewer, Brandon Fl... moreash, provides a detailed account of the charging stops, offering practical insights into Supercharger locations, charging times, and unexpected issues like non-functional chargers. While the car's efficiency generally exceeded predictions, the reviewer encountered a minor hiccup with specific charging stalls at Santee, SC. The journey highlights the importance of flexibility in charging plans, as the car's navigation sometimes suggested suboptimal routes or charging durations. The reviewer also notes the presence of checkpoints and the varying conditions at different Supercharger locations, including one at an airport parking lot. The video concludes with the arrival at the hotel in Roanoke Rapids, with the next installment promising a visit to the Out of Spec Motoring track. less
Tesla Road Trip Part 2 - Louisiana to Florida - All Around the FL Peninsula!
This video documents the second part of a road trip from Arizona to Florida in a Tesla Model S, focusing on the journey across Louisiana, Mississippi,... more Alabama, and around the Florida peninsula. The reviewer provides a detailed, real-time account of charging stops, navigation, and daily progress. Key highlights include the experience with various Tesla Supercharger locations, including observations on their setup and capacity, and a notable encounter with a lengthy COVID-19 checkpoint in Florida. The reviewer also shares practical insights on managing charging stops, estimating arrival times, and the decision-making process for overnight stays. While the video covers extensive ground and charging infrastructure, it lacks specific details on the Model S trim or drivetrain, focusing more on the travel experience and the charging network's performance. less
Tesla Road Trip Part 1 - 1500 Miles from AZ to Louisiana
This video documents the first leg of a 1500-mile road trip from Arizona to Louisiana in a 2015 Tesla Model S 70D. The reviewer, Brandon Flash, provid... morees a detailed, data-driven account of his charging stops, energy consumption, and driving experience. Key highlights include the car's performance on long stretches, particularly noting good charging rates even on an older model and the efficiency gains from a tailwind. The reviewer also shares observations on the infrastructure, including the convenience of Superchargers and the unique experience of visiting the world's largest Buc-ee's. While the journey is largely uneventful in terms of vehicle issues, the reviewer encounters a minor speeding ticket and notes the prevalence of mask-wearing (or lack thereof) in New Mexico. The video offers practical insights for EV road-trippers, emphasizing the importance of planning and utilizing charging data. less
Buying 100k Mile Tesla and Driving it to 150k in One Year - My Experience and Buyer's Guide
The reviewer details a year of ownership of a 2015 Tesla Model S 70D, accumulating 44,000 miles to reach a total of 150,000. The "Dual Motor"... more; (AWD) and "Autopilot" equipped vehicle was purchased sight unseen for its affordability. Physically, the car has held up remarkably well, with only minor wear on the driver's seat and some expected paint chips. The interior shows some delamination on the screens and peeling on window switch finishes, common for the era. Key maintenance items included seven door handle replacements (two self-done with upgraded parts), a 12V battery replacement, and a coolant valve repair. Notably, the original battery pack and drive units remain, with only a minor ~10% degradation in displayed range over 150,000 miles. The reviewer highlights the value of the 70D's coil suspension (avoiding air suspension issues) and the benefit of free unlimited Supercharging. For potential buyers, the advice is to prioritize newer models with larger batteries and Autopilot, inspect for screen delamination, and consider the MCU 2 upgrade for older models. The reviewer expresses high satisfaction and would buy a high-mileage Tesla again. less
Vlog 12 - Crossing 150k Properly - On Mountain Switchbacks!
This vlog documents a significant road trip where the creator's 2015 Tesla Model S 70D surpassed the 150,000-mile milestone. The journey included... more extensive driving through Arizona's scenic routes, highlighting the car's reliability and the creator's long-term ownership experience. The video showcases the car's performance on mountain switchbacks and its charging behavior at various Supercharger locations, including observations on newer versus older charging cabinets. While the primary focus is the mileage achievement, the creator also touches upon the beauty of the landscapes, particularly around Sedona and Jerome, and hints at future content regarding ownership costs and a new set of wheels. The video effectively conveys a sense of accomplishment and continued satisfaction with the aging Model S. less
Driving 40k Miles Per Year - What I Keep in My Tesla and Why
This video offers a comprehensive look at essential items for long-distance EV travel, presented by a user who drives over 40,000 miles annually. The ... morereviewer meticulously details the contents of their Tesla Model S, categorized by storage location (frunk, trunk, under-trunk, interior). Key items include a robust toolkit for minor repairs, a Segway for convenient charging breaks, extensive charging adapters for various EV networks and outlets, detailing supplies, emergency preparedness gear like tire repair kits and traction mats, and personal comfort items. The reviewer emphasizes preparedness for unexpected situations, highlighting the utility of items like a tire inflator, a high-accuracy tire pressure gauge, and even an avalanche shovel (for its utility in varied terrain). The video also touches upon the usefulness of a portable power inverter and a J1772 adapter for non-Tesla charging. While not a traditional vehicle review, it provides invaluable practical advice for EV owners who spend significant time on the road, focusing on self-sufficiency and convenience. less
Vlog 7 - Mavic Mini Drone Recovery on Mt Lemmon? Electrify America Charging Experience
This vlog details a challenging drone recovery attempt on Mt. Lemmon, which ultimately proved unsuccessful due to dense terrain and safety concerns. T... morehe reviewer highlights the disappointment but prioritizes personal safety over the drone's $400 cost. The video also covers the electric vehicle charging experience, contrasting the reliable Tesla Supercharger network with a problematic Electrify America station. While the Electrify America station at Arizona Mills Mall was visually appealing and easy to locate, the reviewer encountered significant issues with card readers, app initiation, and a jammed charging handle, ultimately only getting it to work via the app at a slow 40kW. Despite the charging frustrations, the per-kilowatt-hour cost was found to be competitive. The overall takeaway emphasizes the superior user experience of Tesla's Supercharger network. less
Vlog 5 - I'm Feeling Lucky
This vlog chronicles an experiment with Tesla's 'I'm Feeling Lucky' navigation feature, which randomly selects destinations. The r... moreeviewer, Brandon Flash, uses the feature to explore various locations around Phoenix, including Riparian Preserve, Escape Chandler, Tempe Beach Park, Rio Salado Park, Arizona Capitol Museum, and the Phoenix Batcave. While the feature offers a spontaneous way to discover new places, the reviewer notes that many destinations were closed due to COVID-19, often resulting in drive-bys or brief drone footage. The reviewer highlights the benefits of EV ownership in Arizona, such as HOV lane access and reduced charging costs, particularly utilizing the SRP EV charging plan for off-peak rates. The video concludes with the reviewer charging at a Supercharger and reflecting on the day's spontaneous journey, emphasizing the fun and unpredictable nature of the 'I'm Feeling Lucky' function. less
Vlog 1 - 340 Miles in Tesla Model S 70D - Visiting New Tacna, AZ V3 Supercharger!
This vlog documents a 340-mile road trip in a Tesla Model S 70D, focusing on the experience of visiting a new V3 Supercharger in Tacna, Arizona. The r... moreeviewer highlights the convenience of the V3 charger's location at a Shell station with amenities like a Subway. Charging speeds were noted as good, with a peak of 112 kW, and the reviewer provided detailed insights into the V3 charger's technical specifications and cooling systems. The video also touches upon the car's energy consumption, averaging 325 Wh/mile, influenced by spirited driving. The trip included stops at Gila Bend and Buckeye Superchargers, with observations on border patrol presence in the Tacna area. The reviewer also shared general travel tips, including car cleaning and the use of podcasts for entertainment. Overall, the video offers a practical look at EV road-tripping and charging infrastructure in a less populated area. less
140k Mile Tesla Model S on 5400 Mile Cross Country Road Trip - Do We Make It?
This video chronicles an ambitious 5,400-mile cross-country road trip from Minneapolis, Minnesota to Phoenix, Arizona, in a 2015 Tesla Model S 70D wit... moreh over 135,000 miles. The reviewer provides a detailed, day-by-day account of the journey, highlighting both the challenges and the capabilities of the aging EV. Key takeaways include the car's surprising efficiency, especially when drafting semi-trucks, and its ability to handle varied weather conditions, including snow. The reviewer frequently notes the convenience of Superchargers located at truck stops and gas stations, offering 24/7 amenities. However, the video also points out the limitations of older battery packs, longer charging times, and the occasional unreliability of Supercharger stations. The reviewer's approach to navigation and charging, often relying on external tools like 'Better Routeplanner' when the in-car navigation proved suboptimal, is also a significant aspect. Overall, the video demonstrates that long-distance EV travel in an older model is feasible but requires careful planning, patience, and a willingness to adapt. less