Everything Electric CARS

Almost the Best Electric SUV? BMW iX3 Review

The BMW iX3 is presented as a competent, comfortable, and surprisingly efficient electric SUV, though it falls short of being a truly groundbreaking E... moreV. The reviewer praises its enjoyable driving dynamics, comfortable ride, and excellent real-world range (estimated at 240-270 miles from a 74 kWh battery), attributing its efficiency to clever motor design rather than aerodynamics. The interior is highlighted for its abundance of physical buttons and a well-integrated rotary dial control for the infotainment, a welcome departure from touch-sensitive interfaces. However, the core criticism lies in its 'conversion job' nature; built on an ICE platform, it lacks the packaging benefits and full EV experience of bespoke electric architectures. This results in wasted space in the bonnet and a less cavernous interior than possible. While acknowledging its strengths as a luxury SUV, the reviewer suggests potential buyers consider purpose-built EVs like the Kia EV6 or Hyundai Ioniq 5, which offer similar premium feel and technology at a lower price point and with superior packaging. less

The Sub 20k Electric Cars Are Coming! Xpeng P5

The Xpeng P5 is presented as a highly anticipated, affordable electric sedan, aiming to make EVs accessible to the masses. The reviewer highlights its... more impressive technology and unique features, such as a built-in fridge, air-conditioned seats, and the ability to convert the car into a sleeping space with a projector for a "drive-in movie" experience. While the design is considered somewhat generic, the P5 compensates with a wealth of tech for its price point, estimated between 160,000 to 230,000 RMB. The reviewer praises its efficiency, noting it's even better than their own Xpeng G3, achieving around 11 kWh/100km. Despite initial skepticism from the "analog dad" persona, the reviewer is ultimately impressed by the P5's value proposition, suggesting it could be the best value EV globally and a strong contender for the European market, surpassing even the MG5 in terms of features and technology for a similar price. less

The Cheap Solar-Powered Car You Might Never Need to Charge | Sono Sion

The Sono Sion presents a compellingly practical and affordable approach to electric mobility, prioritizing functionality and cost-effectiveness over l... moreuxury. Its standout feature is the extensive solar integration, capable of adding a significant 70-150 miles of range weekly, potentially covering average daily driving needs without plugging in. The reviewer highlights the Sion's straightforward design, the innovative moss air purification, and its surprisingly spacious interior with a flat floor, all contributing to its mass-market appeal. While lacking premium tech, its affordability is a key selling point, further enhanced by its car-sharing functionality which allows owners to generate income. The reviewer praises Sono Motors for their pioneering spirit, questioning why larger manufacturers are not offering similar affordable, practical EVs sooner. The Sion is positioned as a sensible, self-charging, and potentially income-generating electric vehicle. less

Gas Price Rise, Ioniq 5 Drive & City Centre Hubs | Fully Charged News

Robert Llewellyn reviews the Hyundai Ioniq 5 after a four-day test drive, praising its styling, design, and features, but identifies its significant s... moreize as a primary drawback, particularly for urban driving. He criticizes its impracticality in city traffic, citing a personal experience of driving only 19 miles in four hours in London. While acknowledging the need for larger vehicles for some, he argues the Ioniq 5 is excessive for most daily use, especially when driven solo. He also notes a considerable drop in efficiency compared to the original Ioniq, achieving 3.5 miles per kWh versus over 5 miles per kWh, attributing this to its larger size. Software connectivity issues with the app are also mentioned as a frustration, contrasting it with Tesla's seamless integration. The second half of the news segment discusses the UK's soaring natural gas prices, their causes (international market constraints, reduced Russian supply, high Asian demand), and the implications for energy security. Emma Pinchbeck from Energy UK emphasizes the need to transition away from fossil fuels, highlighting renewables and other zero-carbon technologies as solutions for both climate and supply security. The final segment introduces BP Pulse's new rapid charging hub in Hyde Park, exclusively for commercial fleet vehicles, marking a significant step in EV infrastructure for businesses. less

This Electric Car Is Out of This World! Kia EV6 Review

The Kia EV6 is lauded as a significant reinvention of the Kia brand, moving beyond its value-oriented past to embrace luxury, technology, and sportine... moress. Reviewers praise its "insane" and "Batmobile-style" design, though acknowledge it may be polarizing. The driving experience is highlighted as surprisingly engaging, with the sport mode offering genuine performance enhancements and agile handling, distinguishing it from more comfort-focused rivals like the Ioniq 5. The interior receives high marks for its premium feel, comfortable seats, and thoughtful design details, such as the floating center console and accessible physical controls. Practicality is not sacrificed, with ample cabin space, numerous charging ports, and a useful blind-spot camera. While the GT-Line S trim, starting around £48,500, offers extensive equipment including a Meridian sound system and augmented reality HUD, the reviewer notes the prevalence of fingerprint-attracting glossy black trim and a slightly over-designed wing mirror as minor drawbacks. Overall, the EV6 is presented as a highly competent, multi-talented electric car that successfully blends head and heart, offering strong value against premium competitors. less

The Craziest Electric Cars Coming in the Next 5 Years: Munich Motor Show EV Highlights

The Munich Motor Show 2021 showcased a vibrant future for electric vehicles, with a strong emphasis on concepts hinting at production models. Key take... moreaways include the anticipated arrival of smaller, more affordable EVs, and the significant disruptive potential of Chinese manufacturers in the European market. While many concepts are futuristic, they offer a glimpse into evolving design languages, such as Audi's Grand Sphere and Genesis's X Coupe, and potential future models like the electric Porsche Boxster/Cayman. The show also highlighted innovative urban mobility solutions like the Microlino and Renault's Mobilize range, alongside practical offerings like the Cupra Born and VW ID.5. The overwhelming presence of EVs signals a definitive shift away from internal combustion engines, promising an exciting and busy period for EV development and coverage. less

AMG, Maybach and the G-Wagen Go Electric! First Look at the Five New Mercedes EVs

Mercedes-Benz made a significant impact at the Munich Motor Show, unveiling five new electric vehicles, three of which are production-ready. The revie... morew highlights the EQG Concept, an electric G-Wagen, praised for its off-road potential due to four electric motors and individual wheel torque vectoring, despite its boxy, inefficient design. The Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ is presented as a powerful electric AMG, boasting 750 horsepower and impressive acceleration, though its range is slightly reduced. The EQE is described as a more visually interesting and potentially cheaper alternative to the EQS, offering a good range and available features like hyperscreen and four-wheel steering. The EQB, while offering optional seven seats, is noted to use the same platform as the petrol GLB, resulting in a less bespoke EV feel and a slightly underwhelming range. Finally, the Maybach EQS Concept is showcased as a near-production, ultra-luxury electric limousine focused on rear-seat occupants, expected to be very expensive. less

Audi RS E-Tron GT Full Review

The Audi RS e-tron GT is presented as a compelling alternative to the Porsche Taycan and Tesla Model S, offering a more laid-back, unflappable driving... more experience. While its striking design is a major draw, the reviewer notes significant drawbacks including limited interior space, particularly for rear passengers, and a modest real-world range of 250-280 miles, which falls short of the Model S. The interior, though high-quality and functional, is described as somewhat conventional for Audi. Positives include its supremely comfortable ride, exceptional handling that belies its size and weight, and advanced features like massage seats and an intuitive infotainment system. The reviewer ultimately favors the Audi over the Taycan for its clearer GT identity and over the Model S due to interior quality, deeming it a "bedroom wall poster car" that generates excitement for EVs. less

Fully Charged Outside Roundup 2021

Fully Charged OUTSIDE 2021 was a resounding success, drawing tens of thousands of attendees to Farnborough International. The event showcased a vast a... morerray of electric vehicles, from the latest Tesla Model Y (a UK debut) to commercial vans and micro-mobility options like electric bikes and scooters. Highlights included the "mega theater" for talks, a dedicated test track for first-time EV experiences, and a "personal car show" featuring manufacturers like Ford, Hyundai, Polestar, Kia, and Volkswagen. The "electric converted classics" section offered a glimpse into the future of vintage vehicles. The event also featured a significant presence of electric commercial vehicles, including the Volta truck and the Rivian van, underscoring the growing adoption in the fleet sector. The upcoming 2022 show is anticipated to be even larger, solidifying its status as a premier clean tech and EV festival. less

The Future of City Transport? A Leaning 3-Wheeled Microcar | Carver EV First Drive

The Carver EV presents a unique and undeniably fun proposition for urban mobility. Its standout feature is the Dynamic Vehicle Control (DVC) system, a... morellowing up to 40 degrees of lean, which the reviewer describes as an exhilarating, almost jet-ski-like experience. This leaning capability, combined with its narrow width, makes navigating city streets exceptionally agile and rewarding, offering a level of engagement far exceeding typical city cars like the Smart ForTwo or Renault Twizy. While the reviewer acknowledges its limitations, such as a modest 30 mph top speed and a 60-mile range, these are deemed perfectly adequate for its intended urban use. The Carver is praised for its car-like comfort and safety within an enclosed cabin, despite its motorcycle-like maneuverability. The reviewer concludes that it's a delightful, smile-inducing vehicle that makes a strong case for a more compact and enjoyable urban transport future, especially considering its competitive pricing starting under 10,000 euros. less

Home Energy Episode 6 - Zero Emission Heating & Boiler Spoilers

This final episode of the HOME ENERGY series explores zero-emission heating solutions, focusing on Herschel infrared panels and two types of electric ... moreboilers: the ZEB (Zero Emission Boiler) and the Warmstone Heat Battery. The reviewer highlights infrared heating as an under-the-radar technology that heats thermal mass directly, offering efficiency and unobtrusive installation, with plug-and-play options available. The ZEB is presented as a direct, plug-and-play replacement for fossil fuel boilers, featuring significant on-board thermal storage to decouple electricity consumption from heating needs and mimic gas boiler performance. The Warmstone Heat Battery, a larger unit suitable for garages or outdoors, uses stones heated to high temperatures to store energy, offering a high-power, high-temperature water solution. Key advantages discussed for these technologies include ease of installation, potential cost savings over time, reduced disruption compared to heat pumps, and environmental benefits. The episode concludes by acknowledging that while these technologies can be expensive initially, early adoption helps drive down costs for future consumers. less

Home Energy Episode 5 - Air Source & Ground Source Heat Pumps

This episode of Fully Charged's HOME ENERGY series delves into the crucial role of air source and ground source heat pumps in decarbonizing UK ho... moremes. The presenters highlight that heat pumps are a key technology for replacing the vast majority of fossil fuel heating systems, offering significant efficiency gains over traditional boilers. A key takeaway is the concept of Coefficient of Performance (COP), where heat pumps can deliver 3-4 units of heat for every unit of electricity consumed, compared to a boiler's typical 80-90% efficiency. The video distinguishes between air source (easier installation, lower upfront cost) and ground source (more complex installation, higher upfront cost, but generally more efficient) heat pumps, noting that both can work in older, less insulated homes if sized correctly. Emphasis is placed on the importance of home insulation and system design, particularly lower water flow temperatures, for maximizing efficiency. Challenges discussed include upfront costs, the need for government support and policy changes to shift economics away from fossil fuels, and the potential strain on the electricity grid, though the latter is deemed manageable with planned grid upgrades. The episode concludes by stressing that heat pumps are the future of home heating, supported by international energy agencies, and calls for government action to accelerate their adoption. less

Tesla Range Loss, Radioactive Housing & The Final Line-Up For Fully Charged Outside!

This episode of the Fully Charged News Show delves into two key areas: the longevity of Tesla battery packs and an exciting preview of the upcoming Fu... morelly Charged OUTSIDE event. Regarding Tesla, the hosts present data indicating a potential 10% capacity loss after 200,000 miles, a figure they deem acceptable given the lifespan of combustion engines and the average UK driving distance. The show then pivots to the expansive Fully Charged OUTSIDE event, highlighting its return after a 27-month hiatus. The event promises over 100 cars, including UK debuts like the Nissan Ariya, and extensive test drive opportunities for both cars and two-wheeled electric vehicles. The discussion also touches upon innovative clean energy solutions, such as utilizing abandoned coal mines for geothermal heating, and the event's diverse schedule of talks covering topics from the future of transportation to battery ethics and the role of youth in driving change. The hosts express immense excitement about reconnecting with their audience in person. less

The Poshest Electric Car Ever? Mercedes EQS 450+ Review

The Mercedes EQS 450+ is presented as a significant step for Mercedes-Benz in the electric vehicle space, built on a dedicated EV architecture and pos... moreitioned as a direct rival to the S-Class. The reviewer highlights its exceptional luxury and comfort, particularly for rear-seat occupants, praising the high-quality materials, intricate details, and the premium feel of the interior, even calling it the most premium EV interior seen to date. The "hyperscreen" is noted as visually remarkable, though its usability and fingerprint susceptibility are questioned. Real-world range is estimated to be over 400 miles, thanks to its class-leading aerodynamics (0.20 drag coefficient) and a 107 kWh battery. However, the exterior styling is described as "a bit of a blob" lacking presence compared to rivals. Criticisms include the design over functionality for climate controls, the lack of rear-seat massage functions, and the use of capacitive touch buttons on the steering wheel and for the sunroof, which are deemed less intuitive than traditional controls. While praised for its serene driving experience and impressive maneuverability (especially with rear-wheel steering), the reviewer suggests that for driving engagement, the Audi e-tron GT or Porsche Taycan might be preferable due to their simpler controls, better looks, and more engaging driving dynamics. Despite its flaws, the EQS is acknowledged as a legitimate luxury option with enormous range and a supremely comfortable, quiet cabin. less

Home Energy Episode 4 - Generating, Storing & Shifting Thermal Energy

This episode of Fully Charged's HOME ENERGY series delves into the generation, storage, and shifting of thermal energy, focusing on practical ret... morerofitting solutions for existing homes. The review highlights a significant project in Sunderland, where 364 apartments in seven tower blocks have been decarbonized using Kensa ground source heat pumps and Sunamp heat batteries. The Sunamp unit, utilizing phase-change material (PCM58), is praised for its compact size and ability to store four times the energy of a water cylinder, requiring no maintenance and offering a lifespan of over 55 years. The episode also explores Mixergy's smart hot water tanks, which can be controlled via an app and are designed as a direct replacement for traditional tanks, offering flexibility for homeowners with solar PV. My Energy's 'Eddi' power diverter is presented as a cost-effective solution for homes with solar panels, saving an average of £250 annually by diverting surplus energy to heat water or other resistive loads. Finally, solar thermal is championed for its high energy density and suitability for urban properties with limited roof space, capable of providing hot water for up to six months a year in the UK. The overarching message emphasizes practical, accessible, and cost-effective technologies for home decarbonization. less

Electric Porsche 911, Better Than The Original? With Everrati | Fully Charged For Electric Cars

The Everrati Signature Wide-Body 911 represents a bold and largely successful attempt to electrify an automotive icon without sacrificing its soul. Th... moree reviewer highlights the car's astonishing acceleration and sense of speed, noting that its 500 horsepower and 1350kg weight (lighter than the original) deliver a visceral experience comparable to a GT3 but in a more compact package. Key to its success is Everrati's meticulous engineering, which preserves the 911's distinctive rear-biased weight distribution and communicative, albeit heavy, steering. While the real-world range is stated as 150 miles, this is deemed sufficient for its intended purpose as a spirited Sunday drive, with fast charging being a priority over extreme range to maintain the car's light weight and analog feel. The reviewer praises the retention of the 911's character, including its imperfections and lack of modern digital distractions, emphasizing that the car still requires focus and effort to drive quickly. The fit and finish are described as exceptional, with thoughtful touches like the dual-material steering wheel and carbon fiber bodywork. Ultimately, the video concludes that electric power is a winning combination for small, delicate sports cars, offering a new lease of life for classic vehicles and exciting prospects for future lightweight EVs. less

Home Energy Episode 3 - Generating, Storing & Shifting Electricity

This episode of 'Home Energy' delves into the crucial aspects of generating, storing, and shifting electricity for domestic use. The discuss... moreion highlights wind power's significant growth in the UK, with a focus on Ripple Energy's innovative model allowing consumers to part-own wind farms and benefit from cheaper, greener electricity. The episode also explores the viability and benefits of rooftop solar PV, including its potential to heat hot water, and touches upon integrated solar solutions. A key segment addresses Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technology, explaining its potential to support the grid during peak demand and offer cost savings to homeowners, though it's currently in a trial phase. The overarching theme emphasizes the increasing accessibility and feasibility of achieving zero-carbon homes through a combination of renewable generation, smart storage, and efficient technologies like heat pumps and V2G, positioning these as achievable goals within the next decade. less

Home Energy Episode 2 - Cheaper Measures, Smart Thermostats & Sustainable Tariffs

This episode of 'Home Energy' focuses on practical and affordable ways to reduce household energy consumption, particularly through smart th... moreermostats and sustainable energy tariffs. The review highlights the Tado smart thermostat system, emphasizing its ease of DIY installation (typically 30-60 minutes) and its ability to significantly reduce heating costs by allowing room-by-room temperature control. Tado is compatible with all home heating systems and offers substantial savings, estimated at 22% of the heating bill based on 2019 data. The program also delves into the complexities of choosing green energy tariffs, noting the significant increase in renewable energy options. While some green tariffs may come at a premium, the episode advises consumers to research thoroughly using price comparison sites to find the best balance of cost, environmental benefit, and customer service. Key takeaways include the effectiveness of small behavioral changes, like switching to LED bulbs, and the importance of understanding 'phantom load' to further cut energy waste. less

Home Energy Episode 1 - Cheaper Measures, Energy Efficiency & Fabric First

This episode of 'Home Energy' from Fully Charged focuses on the foundational aspects of decarbonizing a home, emphasizing energy efficiency ... moreand the 'fabric first' approach. The hosts, Dan and Tim Pollard, stress that the cheapest and most effective energy measure is simply using less. They advocate for prioritizing insulation (loft, floor, walls) over installing new heating systems, highlighting that a well-insulated home requires less energy to heat. The discussion covers various insulation materials and the necessity of professional installation for most tasks beyond loft insulation. The episode also touches upon the utility of Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) as a guide, though noting past delivery issues. Crucially, it debunks the myth of leaving heating on all day, promoting zoned heating and thermostatic radiator valves as cost-effective ways to control energy usage. The segment on hot water efficiency, particularly aerated shower heads, is presented as a simple yet impactful measure. Overall, the episode serves as an accessible introduction to practical, often low-cost, steps homeowners can take to reduce their energy consumption and carbon footprint, setting the stage for more advanced technologies in subsequent episodes. less

Tesla Opens Up, Scooter Dilemma & World's Greenest Football Club | Subscribe to Fully Charged

This episode of Fully Charged tackles a diverse range of clean energy topics, with a particular focus on the evolving landscape of electric vehicles. ... moreThe hosts discuss Tesla's significant decision to open its Supercharger network, a move framed as a potential catalyst for broader EV adoption. They also delve into the challenges facing electric scooters, questioning if they are being set up for failure. The program touches upon Audi's ambitious electric Dakar rally campaign and Mercedes-Benz's long-range 'Vision' concept, highlighting advancements in EV technology. A critical perspective is offered on Toyota's stance regarding the transition to electric cars. The episode also briefly covers nuclear energy policy and a peculiar Ford initiative involving a gasoline-scented fragrance for EVs. Overall, the discussion provides a broad overview of current events and debates within the clean energy and automotive sectors. less

Audi Q4 E-Tron First Drive: The Electric Audi We Wanted All Along

The Audi Q4 e-tron is presented as a significant step forward for Audi's electric offerings, built on the dedicated MEB platform. The reviewer hi... moreghlights its surprising interior spaciousness despite its compact exterior, a direct benefit of the EV-native architecture. Key positives include a comfortable and smooth ride, excellent visibility (a marked improvement over the original e-tron), and a well-executed, premium interior with user-friendly physical buttons for climate control. The augmented reality head-up display is also praised as a standout feature. While not the sportiest EV, it offers sufficient performance for daily driving and prioritizes ease of use and comfort. The reviewer identifies the "40" trim with its 316-mile WLTP range as the likely popular choice. Ultimately, the Q4 e-tron is lauded as a compelling, well-rounded premium electric SUV that offers excellent value compared to more expensive rivals like the Mercedes EQC and Jaguar I-Pace, making it a highly recommended option. less

30 Billion Boost, Britain's 'Gigafactory' & Record Renewable Deployment

This episode of Fully Charged News delivers a much-needed dose of optimism, focusing on the rapid and profound transition to electric transport. The r... moreeview highlights Stellantis' significant investment in electrifying its van manufacturing plant at Ellesmere Port, emphasizing that delivery vans will be at the forefront of this EV revolution. The host debunks 'range anxiety' as a myth for commercial vehicles, citing that most vans operate within a limited radius and current EV ranges are more than sufficient. The program also touches upon Nissan's new battery gigafactory in Sunderland, underscoring the UK's growing role in EV production. Beyond vehicles, the episode addresses critical climate issues, including extreme weather events in Germany and the US, and the record growth of renewable energy capacity globally. While acknowledging Tesla's continued success and profitability, the host also shines a light on the burgeoning Croatian startup Rimac's partnership with Bugatti and Rivian's upcoming European launch, showcasing the diverse and exciting landscape of the electric vehicle industry. less

MG5 & Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo: Which is the Most Important Electric Estate Car?

This episode of Fully Charged pits the affordable MG5 electric estate against the ultra-premium Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo Turbo S, highlighting the... moreir vastly different approaches to the electric estate car segment. The reviewer praises the MG5 for its exceptional value, practicality, and comfort, positioning it as a crucial car for mass EV adoption despite its lack of performance thrills. Conversely, the Taycan Cross Turismo Turbo S is lauded as potentially the best electric car in the world, offering unparalleled luxury, blistering speed, engaging driving dynamics, and surprising practicality, though its high cost is a significant barrier. Ultimately, both vehicles are deemed important for accelerating the transition to EVs, with the MG5 representing the accessible, everyday solution and the Taycan showcasing the pinnacle of electric performance and luxury. less

Kia EV6: In-depth Walkaround

The Kia EV6 is presented as a significant departure for the brand, marking a new era of electrification with its dedicated E-GMP platform. The reviewe... morer is highly impressed with its "digital tiger face" design, sporty profile, and particularly the bold rear light bar, finding it more visually interesting than the Hyundai Ioniq 5. Inside, the quality of materials is noted as a major step up for Kia, with a spacious and modern cabin featuring dual 12-inch screens and comfortable "zero gravity" seats. Practicality is highlighted through features like vehicle-to-load charging and ample interior space. While the GT-Line trim is AWD and offers a quoted range of around 316 miles (with AWD variants aiming for over 300 miles), the reviewer expresses excitement for the upcoming GT model's 500+ horsepower performance. The overall verdict is overwhelmingly positive, calling the EV6 a "slam dunk" and a "coolest EV on the block." less