EV Pulse is a premier distributor dedicated to demystifying the world of electric vehicles. This channel serves as an indispensable resource for anyone seeking comprehensive knowledge about EVs, from the latest automotive innovations to practical ownership advice. It aims to empower viewers with the insights needed to navigate the evolving landscape of electric mobility, making complex topics accessible and understandable.
Specializing in in-depth analysis of electric cars, crossovers, and commercial vehicles, EV Pulse covers crucial aspects such as vehicle research, comparison, range considerations, and charging infrastructure. Through expert reviews and informative guides, the distributor fosters informed decision-making for consumers and enthusiasts alike, solidifying its position as a go-to authority for all things electric vehicles.
Specializing in in-depth analysis of electric cars, crossovers, and commercial vehicles, EV Pulse covers crucial aspects such as vehicle research, comparison, range considerations, and charging infrastructure. Through expert reviews and informative guides, the distributor fosters informed decision-making for consumers and enthusiasts alike, solidifying its position as a go-to authority for all things electric vehicles.
How the 2025 Lucid Gravity Rethinks the SUV for an EV Age
The 2025 Lucid Gravity SUV is presented as a revolutionary take on the electric utility vehicle, aiming to blend luxury, space, and performance without compromise. The design emphasizes a clean, aerodynamic exterior with a bold stance, featuring a signature light blade and a unique fast windscree...
Latest Additions
Showing 24 of 72 total titles. Page 2 of 3.
2025 Mazda CX-70 PHEV First Drive: What Third Row?
The 2025 Mazda CX-70 PHEV is presented as a CX-90 variant with a removed third row, offering a compelling alternative for those who prioritize cargo s... morepace and a more refined driving experience over the need for extra passenger capacity. The reviewer highlights that the CX-70 shares the same platform and powertrains as the CX-90, delivering 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque with an official electric range of 26 miles. Key improvements noted over the CX-90 include significant software updates that enhance transmission responsiveness at lower speeds and a lighter steering feel in normal mode, making the driving dynamics notably smoother and more predictable. The interior retains the premium feel of the CX-90, with high-quality materials and comfortable seating, complemented by clever cargo storage solutions unique to the two-row configuration. While the infotainment system's jog wheel may not appeal to everyone, the overall package is praised for its quietness, comfortable ride, and well-tuned Bose audio system. The reviewer suggests that the software improvements could potentially be rolled out to the CX-90, further enhancing Mazda's offerings. The CX-70 PHEV is positioned as a unique offering in the market, particularly for those seeking a plug-in hybrid SUV without the third row. less
Is EV Battery Recycling Ready for Prime Time?
This video delves into the critical and evolving landscape of lithium-ion battery recycling, particularly for electric vehicles. Experts highlight tha... moret while the industry is growing rapidly, it faces a "chicken and egg" problem: not enough end-of-life batteries are available yet to scale recycling processes, partly due to the surprisingly long lifespan of EV batteries, with some Tesla Model S and X batteries lasting 10-12 years. The discussion contrasts pyrometallurgy, which is energy-intensive and less efficient, with hydrometallurgy, which offers higher recovery rates but generates significant sodium sulfate waste. A promising innovation, Aqua Metals' process, aims for cleaner metal recovery. The video emphasizes the necessity of robust domestic recycling infrastructure to meet future demand, as relying solely on virgin materials is unsustainable. While challenges remain in collection and scaling, the overall outlook for battery recycling is optimistic, with potential for recycled materials to even offer performance benefits. less
The Best 2024 Volvo C40 Is Not The One You Think
The 2024 Volvo C40 Recharge receives a significant update with the introduction of a new single-motor, rear-wheel-drive configuration, which the revie... morewer strongly recommends as the "best" version despite its lower horsepower compared to the AWD variant. Key improvements include a larger 82 kWh battery pack, offering an EPA-estimated range of up to 297 miles, and faster DC fast charging capability up to 200 kW, achieving 10-80% in about 28 minutes. The reviewer praises the C40's refined driving dynamics, solid build quality, comfortable front seats with a premium wool blend fabric, and the excellent, intuitive Google-based infotainment system. However, criticisms include limited rear-seat space and headroom due to the sloping roofline, poor rearward visibility, the lack of a sunshade for the glass roof, and the perceived cheapness of the backlit topographic trim. The reviewer highlights the adaptive cruise control with Pilot Assist as effective but still requiring driver attention, and notes the absence of US federal tax credits due to component sourcing. Despite its flaws, the C40 is deemed a delightful EV, with the RWD single-motor model being the standout choice. less
What Makes the 2024 Kia EV9 a Smash Hit?
The 2024 Kia EV9 Land is lauded as a significant achievement in the electric SUV market, particularly for its spacious three-row configuration, a rari... morety in EVs. The reviewer highlights its impressive DC fast charging capabilities, achieving 10-80% in just 25 minutes, and praises the beautifully crafted interior made with eco-friendly materials. The driving dynamics are described as settled and pleasant, with ample power from its dual electric motors (379 hp standard, with an optional torque boost). Cargo versatility is also a strong point, offering up to 82 cubic feet with the second row folded. However, the review points out several areas for improvement: the digital instrument cluster is deemed unappealing, the lane-centering system struggles on secondary roads, and the climate controls are considered redundant and difficult to use. While the third-row legroom is adequate for adults, it could be more generous. The reviewer notes the premium pricing, with the tested Land AWD model costing around $74,000, though a more affordable $56,000 base Light RWD model is available. less
Which Luxury EV Is Best?
This video presents a curated selection of ten high-end electric vehicles for discerning buyers with substantial budgets. The reviewer highlights the ... moreRolls-Royce Spectre as an ultra-luxury electric coupe, praising its design and build quality, though noting its steep $422,500 price tag. The Lucid Air is lauded for its sultry design, advanced technology, and exceptional performance, particularly the Sapphire model, with a starting price of $70,000 and impressive range. The Porsche Taycan is commended for its driver-focused dynamics, versatile body styles (sedan, wagon, cross turismo), and rapid charging capabilities. The BMW i7 stands out for its luxurious and comfortable interior, featuring the impressive theater screen, despite the polarizing grille design. The Genesis Electrified GV70 is recognized as a "Vehicle of the Year" winner, praised for its stunning interior, driving dynamics, and rapid charging, though its range is considered middling. The Audi Q8 e-tron is noted for its refined ride quality and sophisticated interior, with updates enhancing its driving experience. The Mercedes-Benz EQE lineup offers a broad range of options from efficient sedans to high-performance AMG SUVs. The Genesis GV60 is highlighted as a stylish and fun-to-drive option that excels in charging speed and performance. The Polestar 2 is presented as a premium, delightful-to-drive liftback with strong performance and a well-designed interior. Finally, the Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV is positioned as the pinnacle of luxury, offering unparalleled presence, performance, and prestige at a starting price of $182,000. less
New York Auto Show: What You Need To Know
This compilation from the New York Auto Show covers several significant EV reveals, with a particular focus on Genesis and Polestar. The Genesis Neolu... moren concept impresses with its clean, minimalist design and luxurious interior, though its production future remains uncertain. The Genesis GV60 Magma concept showcases a performance-oriented take on the brand's first EV, hinting at capabilities potentially matching the Hyundai Ioniq 5N, but details on pricing and availability are scarce. Porsche's electric Macan arrives in two trims, Macan 4 and Turbo, boasting impressive power figures and an 800V architecture for fast charging, with pricing starting around $81,000. Polestar introduces its first SUV, the Polestar 3, offering substantial range and performance, starting at $77,500, and the coupe-like Polestar 4, positioned between the Polestar 2 and 3, with a unique rear design lacking traditional glass and a starting price of $56,000. Hyundai updates its best-selling Tucson for 2025 with refreshed styling and tech, including hybrid and PHEV options. Finally, the Lucid Gravity SUV is previewed, promising substantial range, acceleration, and a spacious, tech-forward interior with innovative features like a glass center console, though its weight is noted as a potential drawback, with a projected starting price under $80,000. less
How the 2025 Lucid Gravity Rethinks the SUV for an EV Age
The 2025 Lucid Gravity SUV is presented as a revolutionary take on the electric utility vehicle, aiming to blend luxury, space, and performance withou... moret compromise. The design emphasizes a clean, aerodynamic exterior with a bold stance, featuring a signature light blade and a unique fast windscreen angle paired with an upright rear glass for distinctive proportions and a drag coefficient of 0.24. Internally, Lucid prioritizes space efficiency through its platform design, enabling a spacious seven-seater configuration with ample legroom, even in the third row. The interior boasts a "Clear View Cockpit" with an unobstructed OLED screen, customizable tiles, and capacitive touch controls on the steering wheel, designed for intuitive use. Innovations like the "Sanctuary Mode" and "Lucid Spaces" offer immersive relaxation experiences. The vehicle also highlights practical features such as a washable frunk, a glass center console "coffee table," and a "bring your own device" rear entertainment system. While the design and features are lauded for their thoughtful integration and premium feel, the transcript notes the vehicle's significant weight as a potential drawback. The Gravity is slated for a late-year release with a starting price under $80,000. less
We Deep Freeze an EV! How Much Range Will It Lose?
This video details a controlled experiment to measure the range loss of a 2024 Nissan Ariya electric SUV when subjected to extreme cold temperatures (... more-20°C or -4°F) for 16 hours. Engineers from Nissan explain the importance of cold-weather testing, highlighting that while electrons inherently perform less efficiently in the cold, requiring more energy for the same output, the Ariya's battery pack itself did not lose charge. The test revealed that the battery percentage remained unchanged, with only a minor decrease of approximately 7 miles in estimated range. This minimal impact is attributed to the vehicle's ability to precondition its battery and cabin using external power, a common practice for EV owners who charge overnight. The experiment also demonstrated that items left inside, like a sandwich and a glass of water, froze solid, indicating the chamber's effectiveness. Overall, the Ariya performed remarkably well, showcasing resilience in sub-zero conditions, with the estimated range drop being less concerning than the physical freezing of internal items. less
We Test Ford's Tesla Adapter - What You Need to Know!
This video details the launch of Ford's CCS to NACS adapter, enabling Ford F-150 Lightning and Mustang Mach-E owners to utilize Tesla's Supe... morercharger network. Initially, the reviewer experienced issues with 'Plug and Charge' functionality on their Mach-E, encountering 'charger error' and 'charge station fault' messages. However, a Ford representative explained that a necessary software update was rolling out and had not yet been fully deployed to the reviewer's specific vehicle. A subsequent demonstration with a Mach-E that had received the update successfully showcased the seamless 'Plug and Charge' experience. The video also provides a workaround for initiating charging sessions manually via the Ford Pass app if the software update is pending. Ford is offering the adapter for free to existing EV customers who register by June 30, 2024, with new customers purchasing it for approximately $230. The review highlights the adapter as a significant enhancement to the Ford EV ownership experience, granting access to over 15,000 Tesla Superchargers. less
Ev Pulse Behind the Scenes with Craig Cole
This video offers a behind-the-scenes look at the EV Pulse channel's content creation process, focusing on testing YouTube's new vertical li... moreve stream format. While not a vehicle review, the discussion touches upon various EV-related topics, including a detailed segment on the environmental impact of EVs versus internal combustion engine vehicles. The hosts acknowledge the higher manufacturing emissions for EVs but emphasize their significantly lower operational emissions and benefits for air quality. They also discuss the challenges and potential of autonomous driving for seniors and the ongoing debate around EV pricing and resale value, particularly concerning Tesla. The content is presented in a conversational, unscripted style, reflecting the 'behind-the-scenes' nature of the broadcast. less
We Test the New Volvo-Starbucks EV Charging Network
The EVPulse team embarked on a 1,300-mile road trip from Denver to Seattle, testing Volvo's new charging network established at Starbucks locatio... morens. The journey utilized the 2024 Volvo C40 and XC40 Recharge RWD models, highlighting their comfortable interiors, impressive range (nearly 300 miles EPA estimated), and the new in-house developed rear-wheel-drive powertrain delivering 248 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. The charging network, powered by ChargePoint and maintained by Volvo, proved reliable and conveniently located approximately every 100 miles. While the chargers didn't always hit peak advertised speeds, they consistently delivered decent charging rates, especially compared to other networks. The reviewer found the vehicles to be well-balanced, upscale, and easy to live with, making them a strong recommendation for potential EV buyers. The integration of Starbucks as charging hubs was praised for offering a familiar and safe environment, enhancing the overall road trip experience despite initial skepticism. less
2023 Auto Show Highlights: The Future of EVs
This video provides a comprehensive overview of the Ram 1500 Revolution concept truck, highlighting its innovative features and potential for future p... moreroduction vehicles. The reviewer emphasizes the truck's advanced 'Stella frame' architecture, standard all-wheel drive with dual electric drive units, and impressive 350 kW charging capability, promising 100 miles of range in just 10 minutes. Key features like four-wheel steering, a versatile multi-function tailgate, and a unique rear-hinged door design are noted, though the latter is acknowledged as unlikely for production. The interior is praised for its spaciousness, removable center console, and a three-row seating configuration with a midgate, significantly enhancing cargo capacity. The augmented reality head-up display and potential Level 3+ autonomous driving are also mentioned. While specific horsepower, torque, and range figures are not yet available, Ram claims leadership in key performance metrics. The reviewer concludes that the concept showcases a highly innovative truck with the potential to be a class-leading product upon its eventual market release. less
The Contenders | 2024 EV of the Year
This video presents a comprehensive overview of the contenders for the 2024 EV Pulse EV of the Year award, showcasing a diverse range of electric vehi... morecles. The Genesis Electrified GV70 is praised for its sleek design, rapid charging, and luxurious interior, despite its high price point. The Mercedes-Benz EQE sedan is highlighted for its spacious and high-quality interior, advanced technology, and comfortable ride, though its acceleration is noted as slightly slower than expected. The Audi Q8 e-tron receives commendation for significant battery and charging upgrades, improved driving dynamics, and a luxurious, comfortable cabin. The Ford F-150 Lightning is recognized as a top electric pickup with a comfortable interior and good range, but its high price and limited availability of the extended range battery for Pro trim are drawbacks. The Ford Mustang Mach-E is noted for its well-rounded package, excellent performance, and range, with the premium AWD model hitting a sweet spot. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 stands out for its excellent all-around performance, distinctive retrofuturistic styling, premium interior, and rapid charging capabilities. The Kia Niro EV is identified as an attractively priced option with a comfortable interior and good technology, though its range and DC fast charging performance are considered weaknesses. The Hyundai Ioniq 6 is lauded for its exceptional range for the price, sleek styling, and fast charging, offering a compelling blend of value and performance. The Rivian R1T impresses with its stunning design, high-quality materials, impressive performance, and advanced technology, but comes with a very high price tag. The Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV is described as comfortable, spacious, and richly appointed, offering a refined ride and high-quality interior, though its price is substantial. The Nissan Ariya is noted for its refined ride, agile handling, comfortable seats, and unique features like a power sliding center console, but its DC fast charging performance is a weakness. The Kia EV6 GT is celebrated for its immense power, performance, and sporty design, though its higher cost and modest range are noted tradeoffs. The Lexus RZ 450e is praised for its comfortable, spacious, and well-built interior with high-quality materials, but its range is considered a significant weakness. The Volkswagen ID.4 is presented as a handsome and premium-feeling SUV with a comfortable and well-built cabin, though its infotainment system and certain design choices like touch sliders and multimodal window switches are criticized. The Mercedes-Benz EQB 350 4MATIC is highlighted for its nice interior, handsome design, and available third row, but its DC fast charging speed and range are considered subpar. Finally, the Nissan Leaf SV Plus is recognized as an affordable option with a simple and well-built interior, but its limited range and slow DC fast charging are significant drawbacks compared to newer EVs. less
Revealing the Top 3 | 2024 EV of the Year Finalists
EV Pulse reveals its top three finalists for the 2024 EV of the Year award, after evaluating 16 eligible vehicles based on performance, comfort, featu... moreres, quality, value, purpose, personal appeal, charging speed, and range. The Nissan Leaf ranked last due to its age and lack of competitive features, while the Mercedes-Benz EQB and VW ID.4 were noted for feeling less premium than expected for their price points, with the ID.4's infotainment system being a significant drawback. The Lexus RZ 450e and Kia EV6 GT were criticized for their compromised range and performance respectively, despite other positive attributes. The Rivian R1T impressed with its clever features and practicality, and the Hyundai Ioniq 6 was praised for its driving dynamics and range. The Ford Mustang Mach-E and F-150 Lightning also performed well, with the Lightning highlighted for its capability and value. The top three finalists are the Audi Q8 e-tron, Genesis Electrified GV70, and Mercedes-Benz EQE Sedan, each offering a compelling, albeit expensive, luxury EV experience. less
Looking Ahead to 2024 with Industry Trends and Predictions
This episode of EV Pulse Live features an insightful discussion with Paul Waatti of AutoPacific, focusing on industry trends and predictions for 2024.... more The conversation highlights a shift in the EV market from early adopters to the mainstream, noting that affordability remains a key barrier, with a consumer desire for EVs priced at $35,000 or less. While EV sales continue to grow year-over-year, the pace has slowed, partly due to a lack of mainstream models and production challenges, such as GM's slow start with the Ultium platform. The discontinuation of the Chevrolet Bolt EV is lamented due to its affordability, a gap that the upcoming Equinox EV aims to fill, though initial pricing concerns linger. The discussion also touches upon the potential oversupply of electric pickup trucks and the long-term transition to EVs, emphasizing it's a decades-long process. The potential for Chinese automakers to enter the US market with more affordable options is explored, alongside the challenges faced by VinFast. Overall, the outlook for 2024 suggests a continued, albeit more measured, growth in the EV sector, with a strong emphasis needed on accessible pricing and scaled production. less
We Visited Every Great Lake in a Single Day
This video documents an ambitious attempt to visit all five Great Lakes in a single day using a 2023 Nissan Ariya EV, adding a unique twist of brewing... more coffee with water from each lake. The hosts, Chad and Craig, successfully completed the challenge, highlighting the Ariya's capability as a road trip vehicle, particularly praising its comfortable "zero gravity" seats and the effectiveness of its ProPilot Assist 2.0 system on highways when operational. They noted that while the Ariya's DC fast charging isn't class-leading, it maintains a decent curve. The journey involved overcoming challenges such as construction delays in Canada, a close call with 0% battery range before reaching a charger in Sarnia, and the need for an external battery pack to power their coffee-making equipment due to the Ariya's lack of an onboard inverter. The coffee taste tests varied, with Lake Huron being a favorite for its milder flavor, while Lake Erie's water was described as cloudy and unappetizing. Despite the long day (approximately 21 hours), the hosts concluded that the trip is feasible for viewers in under 24 hours by optimizing charging and omitting filming time, and that the charging infrastructure in Southern Ontario and Northern Michigan has improved significantly. less
Is EV Range a Personal Safety Concern?
This discussion delves into the often-overlooked safety concerns surrounding EV ownership, particularly for women. While early EV adopters are predomi... morenantly male, women are key household car purchasers. The conversation highlights that range anxiety for women extends beyond simple distance, encompassing feelings of vulnerability when stranded, especially with children or alone in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas. The video critiques the current charging infrastructure's safety and accessibility, noting issues with charger reliability, location choices (e.g., isolated Walmart parking lots), and the lack of adequate lighting or security at many public charging stations. It also touches on the intimidation factor for some women when learning about EV technology and charging, contrasting it with the more approachable nature of traditional gasoline cars. The hosts suggest that automakers need to address these safety and educational gaps to make EVs more appealing and accessible to a broader demographic, moving beyond just technical specifications to consider the holistic ownership experience. less
Tesla Cybertruck Delivery Event
Tesla's highly anticipated Cybertruck delivery event has finally occurred, marking a significant moment for the electric pickup segment. While th... moree vehicle's radical, stainless-steel exoskeleton design remains its most polarizing feature, the event revealed key specifications and pricing. The Cybertruck aims to be 'more truck than a truck' and 'better than a sports car,' boasting impressive torsional rigidity and a unique, angular construction that prevents traditional stamping. However, concerns linger regarding the practicality of its stainless-steel body for repairs and long-term aesthetics, with black plastic trim being the proposed solution for some areas. The interior is noted as looking cool, but rear seat headroom is a significant concern due to the low, angled roofline. Pricing starts at $49,890 for a rear-wheel-drive model with 250 miles of range, available in 2025, while all-wheel-drive and 'Cyberbeast' trims are available in 2024 starting at $79,990 and $99,990 respectively, with ranges of 340 and 320 miles. Notably, these ranges fall short of some competitors, and the advertised 2.6-second 0-60 time for the Cyberbeast includes a one-foot rollout. The utility is also questioned, with a bed that appears volumetrically smaller than competitors and difficult access to the front of the bed. Despite these critiques, the Cybertruck offers impressive towing capacity (up to 11,000 lbs) and a 17-inch ground clearance in extract mode, alongside advanced features like steer-by-wire and a 48-volt architecture. less
Are Japanese Automakers Finally Taking EVs Seriously?
The Japan Mobility Show signals a potential shift in Japanese automakers' EV strategies, with several intriguing concepts unveiled. While Infinit... morei showcased the QE concept, a potential first EV sedan, its production viability and performance remain uncertain. Nissan's Hyper Force electric supercar concept, boasting 1000 kW, is unlikely for production but hints at future GTR electrification. Lexus presented LF-ZC and LF-ZL concepts, appearing as larger RZ variants, with potential for improved range. Subaru's Sport Mobility concept and flying car were also shown, though the former's design was questioned. Honda's Prelude concept garnered significant praise for its attractive, production-ready design, though its powertrain (hybrid vs. full EV) is debated. Toyota's FTS-E concept, a sporty EV, was also discussed, with the brand's continued focus on hybrids for fleet decarbonization noted. Mitsubishi's D:X concept, a plug-in hybrid Delica, and Mazda's SP concept, a hybrid with a rotary range extender, were also featured. The hosts expressed skepticism about the rotary's return and the production likelihood of most concepts, emphasizing that many are merely design studies rather than concrete future products. less
Heybike Tyson: Rugged, Compact, Range Tested | Review
The Heybike Tyson is presented as a rugged, foldable Class 3 e-bike with impressive trail capability. The reviewer highlights its powerful disc brakes... more, adjustable suspension, and a top speed of 28 MPH. A key test involved a 20-mile unassisted range test, which the Tyson successfully completed, arriving with 32% battery remaining, though the reviewer notes the battery indicator can be inconsistent. Positives include the strong performance from the 750W motor, the convenience of the thumb throttle for motor assist without pedaling, and the folding design for transport. However, significant drawbacks are noted: the assembly instructions are described as 'awful,' the motor engagement is overly aggressive and jerky, and the display screen is difficult to read in sunlight. The bike's weight (77 lbs) also makes it cumbersome to handle, often requiring two people for loading/unloading. Despite these issues, the reviewer finds the Tyson fun to ride, versatile, and comparable in price ($1699) to other Class 3 e-bikes, making it a considerable option for those seeking an off-road capable, foldable electric bicycle. less
2023 UAW Strike: EVs at the Heart of the Issue
The UAW strike is a pivotal moment for the automotive industry, with Electric Vehicle (EV) production emerging as a central point of contention. The d... moreiscussion highlights the UAW's demands for significant wage increases, cost-of-living adjustments, and a return to pension plans, contrasting sharply with automaker offers. A key concern for the union is job security in the face of EV manufacturing's reduced complexity and fewer moving parts compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles. The potential for a 32-hour work week with 40 hours' pay is explored as a union objective. Automakers, while profitable, face challenges in justifying high executive compensation against worker demands. The strike's impact on EV production is noted as potentially less severe in the short term due to the current low volume of union-built EVs in the US, but future negotiations could be significantly impacted as EV production scales up. The analysis suggests the strike could last until January, with strategic targeting of suppliers and specific assembly plants aimed at maximizing pressure. less
The Perils of a Cross-Country EV Road Trip
This video discusses the challenges and learnings from a cross-country EV road trip, specifically a 'D-2-D' cannonball run in a Tesla Model ... more3. While the transcript is empty, the title and description suggest a focus on the practicalities of EV travel, including charging infrastructure and potential pitfalls. The discussion likely covers both the highs and lows experienced by the participants, offering insights into the real-world usability of EVs for long-distance journeys. The content aims to educate potential EV buyers about range anxiety and charging strategies, positioning EV Pulse as a resource for mastering electric vehicles. less
2023 Toyota bZ4X: Everything You Need to Know
The 2023 Toyota bZ4X is presented as Toyota's first modern, long-range EV, built on the e-TNGA platform. The review highlights its futuristic des... moreign, comfortable interior with ample passenger space, and surprisingly strong acceleration for both front-wheel and all-wheel-drive configurations. Key positives include the standard Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite, comfortable ride quality, and the availability of ventilated seats on the Limited trim. However, significant drawbacks are noted, particularly the slow DC fast charging rate for the AWD model (maxing out at 100 kW, with observed peak of 86 kW), an obscured instrument cluster, lack of physical volume knobs, and a less competitive range compared to rivals like the Tesla Model Y, Ford Mustang Mach-E, Kia EV6, and Hyundai Ioniq 5. The AWD model's charging speed is a particular point of criticism, being slower than the FWD version. Despite its solid engineering and appeal to a broad audience, the bZ4X is seen as a safe, rather than groundbreaking, choice in the EV market, feeling somewhat rushed in its development. less
The EVs of Monterey Car Week 2023
Monterey Car Week 2023 provided a fascinating glimpse into the evolving landscape of electric vehicles, with a focus on luxury and unique concepts. Th... moree Lamborghini Lanzador concept showcased the brand's vision for an electric future, blending performance with practicality, while the Meyers Manx Resorter offered a quirky, off-road-focused electric dune buggy. The Little Car Company's 85% scale electric Bentley Blower JNR impressed with its exquisite craftsmanship, highlighting a niche for high-end, kid-friendly EVs. Pininfarina's B95, a striking electric hypercar with no windshield, pushed the boundaries of exotic design. Acura's ZDX, built on GM's Ultium platform, aims to bring performance and familiar features like Apple CarPlay to the EV space, though its design received mixed reactions. Finally, the Kia EV6 North American Utility of the Year Limited Edition was praised for its stunning British Racing Green and tan color combination and its inherent goodness as a vehicle, despite a somewhat unusual award-based special edition naming. The discussion also touched on the challenges of EV adoption, the importance of driving dynamics, and the unique atmosphere of Monterey Car Week. less