Out of Spec BITS is a premier digital channel dedicated to the dynamic world of electric vehicles (EVs). This distributor delves into the latest advancements in EV technology, charging infrastructure, and the practical realities of EV ownership. Through insightful coverage and engaging discussions, Out of Spec BITS provides a comprehensive look at the evolving landscape of electric mobility.
The channel's content offers a deep dive into weekly EV news, ownership tips, and explorations of emerging trends. From examining the performance of cutting-edge EV components to analyzing the infrastructure that powers them, Out of Spec BITS serves as an essential resource for enthusiasts and those curious about the future of transportation.
The channel's content offers a deep dive into weekly EV news, ownership tips, and explorations of emerging trends. From examining the performance of cutting-edge EV components to analyzing the infrastructure that powers them, Out of Spec BITS serves as an essential resource for enthusiasts and those curious about the future of transportation.
1550nm Vehicle Lidar Fried My Phone But Will It Ruin The Autopilot Cameras On My Tesla!?
This video investigates the potential for the Volvo EX90's 1550nm LiDAR system to damage camera sensors, a concern amplified by online reports. The hosts successfully demonstrate that the LiDAR can indeed fry smartphone cameras, causing permanent damage, even from a distance. They meticulously te...
Latest Additions
Showing 24 of 580 total titles. Page 15 of 25.
The Team Talks Trucks, VF8 Home Charging, Third Party CCS Adapter Testing & More
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast features a team discussion covering recent EV experiences, including extensive testing of electric trucks like... more the Cybertruck, Rivian, Hummer EV, Silverado EV, and F-150 Lightning. The team shares insights from track testing, city driving, and a cross-country race, highlighting the evolving capabilities of electric trucks. A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the safety, reliability, and potential risks associated with third-party CCS adapters for Tesla vehicles, with a strong consensus against their use due to warranty and liability concerns. The VinFast VF8's home charging situation is also touched upon, with a mention of a competitive lease deal and its suitability for new drivers, though home charging proved challenging initially. The episode also briefly covers new EPA standards and the broader implications for EV adoption. less
FreeWire Launches EV Charging Accelerate Program - No Upfront Costs For Site Hosts
FreeWire has launched its new Accelerate Program, designed to eliminate upfront costs for site hosts looking to install ultra-fast EV charging. This p... morerogram leverages FreeWire's existing technology, which integrates battery storage within their 200kW Boost Charger Pro and Power Pro units. The integrated battery allows for faster charging, avoids expensive utility upgrades, and mitigates demand charges. The Accelerate Program offers a turnkey solution where FreeWire owns and operates the charging assets, including installation, maintenance, and marketing support. Site hosts benefit from a revenue share model, custom branding opportunities, and the option to purchase the stations after five years. This initiative aims to address the scarcity of reliable public DC fast chargers by making deployment more accessible, particularly for smaller sites or those with limited grid capacity. The program is seen as a significant step towards improving the overall EV driver experience and accelerating the adoption of electric transportation. less
We Towed With Four Electric Trucks Over The Rocky Mountains: Here's What Happened
This episode summarizes a challenging towing test across the Rocky Mountains involving four electric trucks: the Tesla Cybertruck (Cyberbeast), Rivian... more R1T (Quad Motor, Large Pack), Ford F-150 Lightning (Lariat), and Chevrolet Silverado EV 4WT. The primary takeaway is the Silverado EV's exceptional performance, largely attributed to its massive 215 kWh battery, which allowed it to complete the journey with significantly less charging time than the others. The reviewer highlights the Silverado as a "beast" for towing, offering a substantial range advantage. While the Cybertruck and Lightning showed potential, they were hampered by charging infrastructure issues and software glitches, respectively. The Rivian R1T secured second place, performing well despite studded tires and a bed rack. The test also underscored the critical importance of charging port location and the unreliability of some charging infrastructure, particularly older Tesla V2 Superchargers and inconsistent navigation software in the Ford Lightning. The video serves as a compelling preview to a longer, more detailed review on the "Out of Spec Reviews" channel. less
Scalability Supports The EV Revolution - Insider View of Kempower's Scaling Strategies
This episode of the Out-of-Spec Podcast delves into Kempower's strategic approach to scalability in EV charging infrastructure. Hosts Ashley Edwa... morerds and Jed Routh highlight how Kempower's product line, from their movable 50kW charger to their modular power units, is designed to adapt to the unpredictable growth of the EV market. Key strengths emphasized include the inherent modularity of their hardware, enabling future power upgrades and output additions within existing cabinets, and the robust ChargeEye software for real-time diagnostics and fleet management. The discussion also touches upon Kempower's manufacturing expansion in Durham, North Carolina, mirroring their Finnish success to meet growing demand. A significant point raised is the need to move beyond viewing DC fast chargers as commodities, advocating for thoughtful planning and a focus on reliability and uptime to avoid damaging the industry's reputation. The hosts also stress the importance of customer education and increasing the number of charging ports to alleviate queues, viewing this as a critical step towards improving the overall EV charging experience. less
We Need Critical Level 2 EV Charging In Our Cities! Deep Dive Into How It Can Work
This episode delves into the critical need for and practical implementation of Level 2 public EV charging in urban environments. The discussion highli... moreghts how existing infrastructure, particularly streetlights, can be repurposed to provide charging, addressing the needs of 'garage orphans' and those without home charging access. Key benefits explored include cost savings for EV owners compared to DC fast charging and the potential for streetlights to serve as power sources, especially after an upgrade to LED fixtures. The research presented demonstrates a successful deployment in New Westminster, BC, showcasing how 240V can be accessed from streetlight infrastructure by connecting line-to-line. Challenges such as cable management, theft, and voltage drop were discussed, along with innovative solutions like energy management systems and the potential for vehicle-to-vehicle charging using the emerging NACS standard. The episode emphasizes the importance of city planning and utility involvement in scaling this infrastructure, with successful examples in Los Angeles and New York City. less
Charging Rivian on Tesla's Supercharger Network Has Been Seamless - Adapters, Software, and Interoperability
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast details the experience of charging a Rivian R1T on Tesla's Supercharger network. Host Francie and guest J... moreose (RivianTrackr) confirm that the integration has been largely seamless, offering a plug-and-play experience reminiscent of native Tesla charging. Key highlights include the intuitive in-vehicle display showing charging status, speed, and real-time cost, all managed through the Rivian app without needing the Tesla app. While the initial handshake for the first charge took slightly longer due to a pre-existing payment issue (user error), subsequent charges were quick, averaging around 14 seconds from plug-in to charging initiation, with speeds reaching 215-217 kW. A significant point of discussion is the current adapter situation; official Tesla NACS-to-CCS adapters are not yet widely available, creating a bottleneck for many owners. The conversation also touches upon the varying levels of integration automakers are achieving with Tesla's network, with Rivian's being praised for its depth compared to others. The future of adapters and potential third-party certifications are explored, alongside the evolving charging experience on Rivian's own Adventure Network, which has now also integrated real-time cost display. less
Audi Q6 E-tron Reveal! All New PPE Platform & Next Gen Battery Tech
The Audi Q6 e-tron reveal, as detailed in this podcast episode, positions the vehicle as a significant step forward for Audi's electric future, p... morerimarily due to its new Premium Platform Electric (PPE). While the exterior styling is noted as evolutionary and perhaps not generating massive excitement, the underlying technology is where the Q6 e-tron shines. The PPE platform, shared with the Macan EV, brings an 800-volt architecture enabling impressive charging speeds (up to 270 kW) and a dual-voltage charging capability. The battery, around 100 kWh gross, aims for a 300-mile range, which is considered decent but not class-leading. The reviewer highlights the advanced LED lighting systems, including customizable DRLs, as a standout feature, though some advanced tech may be restricted in the US due to regulations. Audi's strategy of maintaining multiple platforms is questioned, but the PPE is seen as a potential future direction. The Q6 e-tron is positioned to compete directly with the Tesla Model Y and BMW iX3, though its expected higher price point and initial CCS charging (NACS compatibility coming later) present challenges for attracting Model Y customers. Overall, the Q6 e-tron is presented as a premium, technologically advanced offering, but its market reception may hinge on pricing and the continued evolution of Audi's platform strategy. less
Reliable EV Charging Should Be The Status Quo - How Kempower Prioritizes Reliability
This episode of the Out-of-Spec Podcast features Stephen Tok from Kempower, focusing on the critical aspect of reliability in EV charging infrastructu... morere. Tok emphasizes that reliability is not an afterthought but a core design principle for Kempower, stemming from their 70+ years of experience in the arc welding industry. The company leverages a modular hardware design with dual-channel rectifiers for redundancy, ensuring that if one component fails, charging can continue. This is complemented by their 'ChargeEYE' software, which provides real-time monitoring, diagnostics, and enables rapid module swaps, contributing to an industry-leading uptime of 99.9%+. Kempower also prioritizes strong partnerships with service providers, ensuring spare parts availability and quick response times. The discussion highlights how their software, including a QR code for easy access to charging data without an app and dynamic charging for efficient power distribution, enhances the user experience. Furthermore, Kempower's products are tested extensively in extreme weather conditions, from the Nordic cold to desert heat, and are designed with emergency response scenarios in mind, including mobile charging solutions. The conversation underscores the importance of interoperability testing and the company's commitment to setting a higher standard for EV charging reliability. less
Francie Goes To Electrification 2024! Electric Seaports, Forklifts, River Dolphins, & More
The "Out of Spec Podcast" episode recaps the Electrification 2024 event in Savannah, Georgia, hosted by EPRI. Host Francie shares her experi... moreences and key takeaways, highlighting the challenges and progress in electrifying various sectors beyond passenger vehicles. The event covered topics such as electrifying forklifts, shipyards, and port operations, with detailed insights from industry professionals. Francie was particularly impressed by the advancements in electrifying port container handling equipment, noting significant cost savings and reliability improvements compared to diesel. She also touched upon the potential and challenges of curbside charging solutions like its electric and the innovative, albeit complex, implementation of electric cranes at the Port of Savannah. The episode also briefly mentions battery storage and the importance of collaboration in navigating the complexities of electrification, emphasizing that while solutions are emerging, the path forward is still being defined. less
Rivian Can Charge At Tesla Superchargers! Access For R1T & R1S EVs Starts Today
The Out of Spec Podcast discusses a significant development for Rivian owners: access to the Tesla Supercharger network, effective March 18, 2024. Thi... mores integration, requiring an adapter, promises to alleviate range anxiety and improve the road-tripping experience, a long-standing concern for Rivian drivers accustomed to the less reliable CCS network. The podcast highlights the seamless payment and in-car navigation features Rivian is implementing, mirroring Tesla's user-friendly approach. While official adapters are pending, early access via third-party options is possible, though caution is advised. A key takeaway is the nuanced discussion around adapter costs and the trade-off between convenience (Plug and Charge) and potential savings via Tesla's monthly plan, which currently doesn't integrate with Rivian's app-based charging. The episode emphasizes Rivian's proactive collaboration with Tesla for a smooth user experience, potentially setting a benchmark for other automakers. less
VinFast VF8 Customer Ownership Review - It's Not That Bad!
This episode features VinFast VF8 owners Judy and Larry, who offer a surprisingly positive perspective on a vehicle that has received widespread criti... morecism. Despite acknowledging the car's "glitchy" nature and software quirks, they highlight its value, particularly through attractive leasing deals. The owners appreciate the VF8's amenities, adaptive cruise control, 360 cameras, and comfortable ride, finding it a compelling option for daily driving. While they admit the car isn't perfect and has room for improvement, especially concerning software and certain hardware linkages (like the sunroof shade closing with wipers), they emphasize that the core driving experience remains solid and enjoyable. They recommend the VF8, especially when leased, for those willing to embrace a "puzzle"-like experience and overlook the initial startup kinks, contrasting their positive ownership with the car's poor reputation. less
EV Infrastructure Lawyer Answers Why There Are So Many Broken EV Chargers
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast features EV infrastructure attorney Jason Goldfarb, who provides a deep dive into the persistent issue of brok... moreen public EV chargers in the US. Goldfarb identifies multifaceted root causes, including a 'land grab' mentality driven by federal funding, leading to poorly sited chargers with no consideration for utilization or maintenance. He criticizes the lack of robust contractual obligations and enforcement mechanisms in many deployment agreements, highlighting examples of chargers placed in impractical locations like airport ride-share pickup lines or areas with no demand. Goldfarb also points to insufficient due diligence, such as failing to conduct title searches or surveys, which can lead to legal access issues. He contrasts this with Tesla's data-driven approach to Supercharger placement. While acknowledging the government's efforts with NEVI funding, he argues that current regulations lack the 'teeth'—specific metrics and penalties—to ensure long-term reliability and maintenance. The core message emphasizes the need for better contracts, thorough due diligence, and incentivized accountability to truly fix the broken EV charging infrastructure. less
Kempower's Product Lineup Offers Flexibility While Prioritizing Reliability
This episode of the Out-of-Spec Podcast features Kempower's Ashley Edwards and Jed Routh discussing their innovative EV charging solutions. The c... moreore of their offering is the 'full circle solution' which emphasizes flexibility and reliability. A key differentiator is their power unit and satellite system, enabling dynamic power distribution to up to eight dispensers. This intelligent system maximizes charger utilization for station owners by allocating power based on individual vehicle needs, thereby reducing wait times for drivers and optimizing overall throughput. The discussion also highlights Kempower's global presence, their commitment to user experience through software like 'Charge Eye' offering diagnostics and driver-friendly interfaces, and their adaptability to new standards like the NACS connector with planned retrofit kits. The guests express excitement about the rapid advancements in EV technology, particularly battery development and increasing power density, positioning Kempower as a forward-thinking leader in the evolving charging infrastructure landscape. less
Kyle Goes To Electrify America's EV Charging Flagship & Likes It! Indoor, Amenities, And Safety
Kyle discusses his experience at Electrify America's new flagship charging hub in San Francisco, highlighting it as a significant improvement ove... morer typical EA stations. He praises the indoor facility for its safety, amenities like a lounge with snacks and Wi-Fi, and 24-hour security, addressing concerns about crime in the city. The hub features 20 indoor DC fast chargers up to 350 kW, with dedicated technicians ensuring immediate repairs. While acknowledging EA's past reliability issues, Kyle notes this location's robust infrastructure, including a medium voltage grid connection and load-balanced 350 kW cabinets, which generally avoid significant power splits. He also touches on the upcoming NACS transition, with EA evaluating cable suppliers and potential solutions like a 'magic dock' for single-cable cabinets. Despite the high cost and limited rollout (only two more planned), Kyle views this flagship as a positive step towards a better EV charging experience, emphasizing the importance of amenities, safety, and consistent maintenance. less
Francie Answers Your VF8 Questions After 1 Month & 1,000 Miles! Likes, Dislikes & More
After one month and 1,000 miles with the VinFast VF8 Eco, the reviewer finds it to be a decent car, particularly appealing for its attractive lease de... moreals (around $250/month with zero down). While the exterior design, spacious interior, and comfortable ride are praised, significant drawbacks emerge in the infotainment system and software, described as outdated, quirky, and clunky. The sound system is notably poor, with one instance of demonic noises from the speakers. Charging speeds are slow, and the public charging infrastructure in the reviewer's area is severely lacking. Despite these issues, the reviewer highlights the good driver assistance features and solid build quality, noting no new squeaks or rattles. The VF8 is recommended for those curious about EVs or seeking a budget-friendly lease, but not for outright purchase due to its price point and competition. The reviewer suggests VinFast needs significant improvement in software and user experience to compete effectively. less
Kyle Charged a Ford on Tesla Superchargers! Benefits, Problems, and Major Takeaways | Episode 291
Kyle shares his extensive road trip experience utilizing a Ford F-150 Lightning on the Tesla Supercharger network, highlighting both the transformativ... moree potential and the current limitations of this new accessibility. While Ford is the first automaker to gain access, Kyle emphasizes that the transition isn't seamless. He encountered issues such as short charging cables requiring precise vehicle positioning, variability in Supercharger V3 compatibility (estimated at 60%), and occasional charger malfunctions like intermittent power surges or completely dead stations. Despite these "niggles," Kyle concludes that the expanded charging options significantly enhance travel freedom and "more than double" his impression of available charging locations. He notes that while Tesla owners showed a mix of confusion and excitement, no outright anger was observed. The core takeaway is that while not a "magic bullet," this development is a major step towards universal EV charging, fostering competition that will ultimately benefit drivers with better experiences and pricing, though site design will need to adapt for non-Tesla EVs. less
Rivian's R2 Unveiling Had So Many Surprises! R2, R3, R3X & All Of The Details | Episode 290
The Out of Spec Podcast crew discusses Rivian's surprise-filled unveiling event, focusing primarily on the R2, R3, and R3X. The R2 is highlighted... more as a significant move into the mainstream market, with a competitive starting price of $45,000 and an estimated range exceeding 300 miles across all drivetrains, with a sub-3-second 0-60 mph time for the tri-motor variant. Key features noted include the absence of air suspension, a new 4695 battery cell, and a highly functional interior with folding front seats and a unique steering wheel with haptic feedback. The R3 and R3X were unexpected reveals, with the R3 offering a crossover/hatchback profile and the R3X presenting a more aggressive, rally-ready variant. Both R2 and R3 models are designed for global markets, including right-hand drive. The presenters praised Rivian's design ethos, focusing on function and adventure, and RJ Scaringe's engaging presentation style, drawing comparisons to Steve Jobs. While timing and specific details for the R3 remain scarce, the overall sentiment is excitement for Rivian's expanded and more accessible product line. less
Any Home Can Be Electrified and Upgraded According to Elephant Energy! Episode 289
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast features David Richardson (DR), co-founder of Elephant Energy, discussing the critical need and practicalities... more of home electrification. DR highlights that while electrifying buildings lags behind other climate solutions like wind, solar, and EVs, the technology, particularly heat pumps, is advanced and offers significant benefits. Elephant Energy aims to simplify this transition for homeowners by managing the process from diagnosis to installation, emphasizing a white-glove, seamless experience. The discussion delves into the grid implications of increased electrification, noting that while overall energy consumption might decrease due to heat pump efficiency, the demand for electrons will rise. DR stresses that Elephant Energy prioritizes working with homeowners when appliances are ready for replacement, not advocating for premature upgrades. He explains that incentives and rebates, especially through the Inflation Reduction Act, can make heat pumps more cost-effective upfront than traditional gas furnaces. The company differentiates itself through expertise in building science, partnerships with vetted local contractors, and simplifying the complex rebate landscape. DR's personal experience installing his own heat pump underscored the need for Elephant Energy's services, as the process was far more complicated than anticipated. The episode concludes with DR expressing his motivation stemming from climate impact and customer satisfaction, and encouraging listeners to explore Elephant Energy for their home electrification needs. less
Kempower Made It To America! A Refresher And Update About This Charging Company
This episode of the Out of Spec Podcast provides an in-depth look at Kempower's expansion into the North American market. The discussion highligh... morets Kempower's commitment to reliability, user-friendly interfaces, and innovative technology, such as adaptive voltage and dynamic power sharing. The guests emphasize the company's European success, characterized by robust hardware that performs exceptionally even in harsh conditions, and their strategy to replicate this in the US with localized manufacturing in North Carolina. Key takeaways include the modularity of their charging solutions, allowing for scalability from 50kW up to 600kW, and the recent adoption of silicon carbide technology for improved efficiency and performance. While acknowledging the challenges of entering a new market with established competitors, Kempower aims to leverage its strong product and growing partner network to establish a significant presence. less
Chinese Manufacturing Plays An Important Role In The Kazakhstan EV Market | Episode 285
Max shares his observations from a recent trip to Kazakhstan, highlighting the significant role Chinese EV manufacturers play in the local market. Due... more to sanctions limiting Russian imports and favorable import tax exemptions for EVs, Chinese brands like Zeekr and Volkswagen (with its ID.4 being surprisingly prevalent) have filled the void. The Zeekr 01 is presented as a standout, offering premium features and a high-quality build at a competitive price point (around $60-70k USD), significantly undercutting comparable Western EVs. While charging infrastructure is developing, particularly with unique initiatives like a restricted mountain road for EVs, home charging remains key. The discussion also touches on the surprising lack of political polarization surrounding EVs in Kazakhstan, contrasting it with the US, and notes that Chinese automakers are pushing technological boundaries, posing a future competitive threat to established players, even Tesla. less
Kia EV6 2 Year Ownership Update: Modifications, Road Trips, Daily Driving
After two years of ownership, Emad shares his comprehensive experience with the Kia EV6 Wind. While the car has been a largely positive daily driver f... moreor his family, particularly for city use in the DFW area, he highlights recurring issues with the 12-volt battery and the ICCU, which have plagued many EV6 owners and can lead to significant repair times due to dealership parts availability and service delays. Despite these concerns and the depreciation of EV values, Emad expresses satisfaction with the EV6's low maintenance costs compared to ICE vehicles and its suitability for their lifestyle, noting that the car's fun factor and practicality outweigh the drawbacks. He also touches on the growing, albeit limited, aftermarket support and the ongoing debate around EV adoption, emphasizing that personal needs should dictate vehicle choice. less
VW ID.4 Gets A Major Software Overhaul For 2024 Plus More Power & Greater Efficiency
The 2024 Volkswagen ID.4 receives a significant mid-cycle refresh, primarily focused on its software and efficiency, though these updates are exclusiv... moree to the larger battery models. The reviewer highlights the completely revamped infotainment system, now praised for its speed, responsiveness, and excellent EV route planning capabilities, comparable to Porsche's Taycan. Automatic and manual battery preconditioning, along with the convenience of Plug & Charge, are also noted as major improvements for road trips. Power has been increased across the board, with the rear-wheel-drive model seeing a substantial boost thanks to the new AP 550 motor. While the chassis dynamics and driver assistance systems remain strong points, the reviewer's main critique is the vehicle's pricing. Despite the upgrades, the ID.4 is positioned as more expensive than key competitors like the Tesla Model Y, making leasing a likely necessity for many buyers. The reviewer expresses a personal preference for the ID.4's driving feel and interior comfort over the Model Y, but acknowledges that the price point remains a significant hurdle for mass adoption. less
The Out Of Spec Team Wraps Up February 2024
This episode of Out Of Spec Podcast serves as a monthly wrap-up, detailing the team's activities and looking ahead to March. The discussion cover... mores a range of topics, including individual team member updates, their current EV projects, and a segment dedicated to YouTube channels they are watching. While not a vehicle review, the episode provides insight into the team's ongoing engagement with the electric vehicle space and their content creation efforts. It highlights their diverse interests within the EV community and their plans for future content, making it a valuable update for regular followers of the Out Of Spec network. less
The 2025 Porsche Taycan Raises The Bar - All Technical Details Thoroughly Explained
The 2025 Porsche Taycan receives a significant technical overhaul, focusing heavily on performance and efficiency. The review highlights a substantial... more increase in power, with the Turbo S model now producing 700 kW, and a notable improvement in acceleration, making it feel comparable to a Model S Plaid. Range has also seen a dramatic increase of up to 35% (WLTP), with the car achieving over 465 miles in a hypermile test. Charging performance is exceptional, with peak rates of 335 kW and a faster 10-to-80% charge time of 18 minutes (stated, though real-world tests suggest even faster). Key improvements include standard adaptive air suspension with two-valve damper technology across all models, and optional Porsche Active Ride for enhanced chassis control and comfort. The drivetrain benefits from a new, more powerful, and lighter rear motor, though it notably omits silicon carbide inverters, a decision attributed to cost balancing. The battery also sees an upgrade to 105 kWh gross (97 kWh usable) with improved chemistry allowing for faster charging at lower temperatures. While driver assistance systems see some updates, the reversing camera's poor positioning remains a point of criticism. Overall, the Taycan is presented as a benchmark-raising EV, particularly for enthusiasts who appreciate its engineering depth and performance capabilities, despite its premium price point. less