Out of Spec Reviews

I Drive The Updated Polestar 2 For The First Time! New Motors, New Battery, & All Changes Explained

The updated 2024 Polestar 2 receives significant enhancements, particularly with its new rear-wheel-drive single-motor variant offering an impressive ... more320 miles of EPA range and faster charging speeds. While the dual-motor variant also sees efficiency improvements and standard pilot assist, its range remains lower at 270 miles (247 with performance pack). The reviewer, a current Polestar 2 owner, highlights the car's premium, crafted feel and distinct design as key advantages over competitors like the Tesla Model 3 and Hyundai Ioniq 6. However, the interior, while premium, retains some dated elements like a large center console, and the infotainment system's responsiveness is noted as a drawback compared to Tesla. The lack of federal tax credit eligibility for the Polestar 2 is a significant factor impacting its value proposition against the Model 3. Despite these points, the Polestar 2 is praised for its driving dynamics, especially the new rear-biased dual-motor setup, and its hatchback practicality. less

Full Tour Of The New Tesla Model 3 Refresh! All Of The Changes Make The Best Car Even Better

The reviewer provides a comprehensive first look at the refreshed Tesla Model 3, dubbed the 'Highland,' at the IAA in Munich. Key improvemen... morets highlighted include a more premium and quieter interior with enhanced ambient lighting and a significantly upgraded 17-speaker sound system. The reviewer praises the new ventilated seats and the improved rear seat comfort, noting the double-pane glass now extends to the rear. Exterior changes are subtle but effective, with a sleeker front end and a redesigned single-piece taillight. While the lack of ultrasonic sensors and the reliance on Tesla Vision for parking are noted as drawbacks, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive. The reviewer emphasizes that the value proposition of the Model 3 has been further enhanced, making it an even stronger contender in the market, especially considering its competitive pricing in Europe. less

I Drive the Volkswagen ID.7 For The First Time! Way More Premium & Quiet Than Expected

The Volkswagen ID.7 is presented as a premium, quiet, and comfortable electric sedan, potentially replacing the Passat in the US market. The reviewer ... morehighlights its spacious interior, advanced HMI with a new software generation (4.0), and impressive features like the smart glass roof and multi-zone climate control with unique vent adjustments. The driving experience is praised for its quietness, stability at high speeds, and the significant adjustability of the Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC), offering a wide range from soft and floaty to firm and sporty. While the rear-wheel-drive version offers ample power (210 kW/280 hp), the upcoming all-wheel-drive variant is expected to provide even more. A key concern for the US market is the potential exclusion of the larger battery pack, which is crucial for achieving competitive range. The reviewer notes that while charging speeds are good (up to 200 kW with the larger battery), they are not class-leading due to the 400V architecture. Minor criticisms include the capacitive buttons and the two-window switch setup, though these are acknowledged as being addressed in future updates. Overall, the ID.7 is seen as a strong contender, offering a premium feel and long-distance capability that exceeds expectations. less

The First Ever Electric Volkswagen GTI Hot Hatch! Incredible Design w/ Exciting Performance Details

The Volkswagen ID. GTI Concept represents a significant step towards an electric hot hatch future, building on the iconic GTI legacy. While still a co... morencept, the vehicle is slated for production in 2026, based on the ID.2all platform and the smallest MEB architecture. Key highlights include its sporty front-wheel-drive setup, a promised limited-slip differential, and dynamic damper control, aiming to deliver the traditional GTI driving feel. The design is praised for its aggressive stance, wider fenders, and thoughtful integration of classic GTI elements, while the interior, though not fully revealed, promises a modern, driver-focused experience with physical climate controls and unique material choices. The reviewer expresses excitement for its potential to bring back Volkswagen's fun and tossable character, though notes that US market availability is uncertain and encourages viewer feedback to influence its import. The concept's retro drive modes and focus on an emotional driving experience are particularly lauded. less

The Ultimate Tesla Supercharger Stress Test! Free EV Charging For Everyone In Europe

This video stress-tests Tesla's Supercharger network in Europe during a rare free charging event, using a Volkswagen ID.3. The primary goal was t... moreo assess the impact of increased traffic, particularly from non-Tesla vehicles, on the charging experience. While the event aimed to simulate potential future scenarios in the US, the results were mixed. The downtown Berlin Supercharger was surprisingly empty, while a suburban location experienced a significant line, contradicting app predictions. A key takeaway was the challenge posed by non-standard charge port locations on various EV models, often requiring two open stalls for a single non-Tesla vehicle to charge. The video highlights that free charging significantly increases Supercharger usage, though the downtown location's emptiness remains a puzzle, possibly due to parking fees. The reviewer concludes that while free charging is appealing, it's not sustainable, and Tesla needs to address cable length and port location issues, potentially through V4 dispensers, to improve the experience for all EVs. less

Rivian Dual-Motor vs Quad-Motor: Full In-Depth Review Of Enduro - Driving, Design, & Production

The Rivian Enduro dual-motor drivetrain represents a significant in-house development, offering a compelling alternative to the original quad-motor se... moretup. While the quad-motor retains advantages in refinement and advanced torque vectoring for extreme performance driving, the dual-motor excels in everyday efficiency, quietness, and a smoother low-speed experience. The reviewer highlights that for most users, the dual-motor provides more than sufficient acceleration and capability, particularly noting its improved stall torque for off-road crawling compared to the quad-motor. However, the dual-motor is software-limited in certain drive modes like 'drift' and 'rally', and lacks the ultimate off-road prowess of the quad-motor. The dual-motor is also the only option for the Max Pack battery, aimed at maximizing range. less

The Perfect DC Fast Charging Experience: Full Tour of the First Porsche Charging Lounge

Porsche has unveiled its first dedicated Charging Lounge in Bingen, Germany, offering a premium, brand-specific charging experience for Taycan and fut... moreure electric Porsche owners. The facility boasts 300kW Alpitronic chargers, ensuring dedicated, full-peak power delivery without sharing, a significant advantage for high-performance EVs. The lounge itself provides a comfortable environment with amenities like coffee, snacks, and restrooms, all designed with Porsche's signature aesthetic. Security is paramount, with 24/7 monitoring and a dedicated operations center. Access is controlled via license plate recognition or the My Porsche app, ensuring an exclusive experience. While the concept is expensive and currently limited to Porsche vehicles, it addresses the growing need for reliable, high-speed charging and a superior customer experience, potentially alleviating pressure on public networks. The reviewer highlights the seamless integration of Porsche's digital infrastructure and the high-quality build, making it a benchmark for EV charging facilities. less

We Landed In Germany & Blasted Straight To This Amazing EV Charging Station!

The Out of Spec Reviews team lands in Munich and immediately picks up a Porsche Taycan RWD press car for their German adventure. While the base model ... morelacks some premium features like cooled seats and air suspension, the reviewer highlights its efficiency focus and the impressive dynamic preconditioning system, which optimizes battery temperature for charging. The video showcases the stark contrast in EV charging infrastructure between Germany and the US, with numerous high-power chargers readily available. A significant portion of the review is dedicated to a detailed tour of the Sortimo Fast Charging Park, demonstrating its various charging options and the convenience of its amenities. The reviewer notes the Taycan RWD's transmission shifts are more noticeable than in AWD versions, but praises its stability and handling on the Autobahn, even in wet conditions. The video concludes with the team arriving at their hotel, setting the stage for further EV content during their trip. less

This Insane Hummer EV EarthCruiser Is The Ultimate Electric Overlanding Vehicle!

This video showcases the EarthCruiser upgraded GMC Hummer EV, a factory-optionable camper conversion. The reviewer highlights the seamless integration... more of the camper unit into the Hummer's bed and roof, emphasizing its OE look and color matching. Key features discussed include the substantial 212 kWh battery, three-motor setup, and impressive off-road capabilities, noting that electric off-roading consumes minimal battery. The EarthCruiser conversion itself is praised for its full-electric system, eliminating propane or diesel, and its robust, marine-grade construction designed for durability and serviceability. While pricing is not yet released, it's estimated to be under six figures, positioning it as a premium, self-sustaining overlanding solution. The reviewer expresses excitement about this collaboration, seeing it as a significant step for electric overlanding. less

The Craziest New EVs Of The Year: Rolls Royce Spectre, Lamborghini Lanzador & More At The Quail

This video offers a comprehensive tour of the electric vehicles showcased at the prestigious Quail 2023 event during Monterey Car Week. The host highl... moreights a diverse range of high-profile EVs, from the ultra-luxury Rolls-Royce Spectre and the hypercar-level Pininfarina Battista and Rimac Nevera Time Attack, to more mainstream offerings like the Kia EV9 and EV6 GT, and the Acura ZDX. The review touches upon the design and technical aspects of each vehicle, noting the impressive engineering of the Pininfarina B-95 and the unique styling of the Lotus Eletre and Evija. While the Rolls-Royce Spectre is acknowledged for its luxury, its range is noted as a potential drawback for some. The Acura ZDX is praised for its design and potential value over GM siblings, though concerns about production capacity and handling dynamics are raised. The video concludes with a look at the Lamborghini Lanzador concept and the electric Meyers Manx, emphasizing the growing presence and innovation within the EV space at exclusive automotive gatherings. less

Maserati's First Electric Car! Full Tour Of The GranTurismo Folgore - 800V System W/ 400kW Regen

Maserati's entry into the EV space with the GranTurismo Folgore is a surprisingly compelling package, challenging traditional notions of the bran... mored. While the reviewer expresses initial skepticism, missing the V8's roar, the Folgore's performance and technology impress. The three-motor AWD system, capable of 750+ horsepower, offers advanced torque vectoring, and the 800V architecture supports impressive 400kW regen capabilities (though DC fast charging tops out at 270kW). The interior is lauded for its premium feel and innovative materials, including a unique recycled fishing net option. A standout feature is the optional Sonus Faber 3D sound system, recognized as best-in-class. The rear seats are surprisingly usable for a 2+2 coupe, offering more comfort than its Polestar 1 competitor. While not a track-focused weapon, its ability to perform drifts and its overall refinement suggest Maserati has built a capable and desirable electric grand tourer that may win over even combustion enthusiasts. less

I Drive The Lotus Eletre For The First Time! A Charging Monster W/ Fantastic Interior & Performance

The Lotus Eletre R is a groundbreaking, albeit controversial, entry for the historic brand, marking its first all-wheel-drive and SUV model. Reviewers... more were captivated by its exotic styling, high-quality interior materials, and advanced technology, particularly the Unreal Engine-powered infotainment system and unique active aero features. The performance is staggering, with the Eletre R boasting 905 horsepower and a 2.9-second 0-60 mph time, offering a surprisingly fun and capable driving experience on winding roads, despite some initial feedback suggesting a lack of steering feel. However, the R model's two-speed rear transmission, while contributing to its immense power, was noted as potentially unrefined and unnecessary for an EV. Practicality is a mixed bag; while rear-seat space and comfort are ample, the lack of rear heated/cooled seats and limited storage cubbies in the front were noted as drawbacks for a vehicle in this price bracket. Charging performance is exceptional, with 350kW capability, and expected range is around 300-320 miles. The Eletre R is positioned as a premium, high-performance electric SUV, competing with luxury rivals, and is seen as a crucial model for Lotus's financial future, enabling the continuation of its sports car lineage. less

The Acura ZDX EV Is A Better Cadillac Lyriq! First Tour Of This Ultium Based Electric SUV

The Acura ZDX, built on GM's Ultium platform, is presented as a compelling alternative to its sister vehicles like the Cadillac Lyriq and Chevrol... moreet Blazer EV. The reviewer highlights Acura's success in differentiating the ZDX through superior design, both interior and exterior, which is praised as the best-looking among the Ultium-based SUVs. Key advantages noted include the adaptive dampers and full air suspension, offering a significant upgrade over the Lyriq. The Type S trim, with its 500 horsepower, is expected to be a strong performer. While the interior shares GM switchgear, Acura's application of materials and layout is considered superior to the Lyriq's, with comfortable seats and a premium feel. Concerns remain regarding the flimsy charge port door, potential dealer readiness, and production capacity. The reviewer anticipates a starting price around $60,000 for the A-Spec and $70,000-$75,000 for the Type S, with the vehicle qualifying for tax credits. Overall, the ZDX Type S is positioned as the reviewer's current favorite among the Ultium trio, offering a strong blend of style, performance, and perceived value. less

Tesla Autopilot FSD Beta Finally Takes On The Hogback Driver Assistance Challenge!

This video rigorously tests Tesla's FSD Beta v11.4.4 on the challenging Hogback Challenge, a standardized driver assistance test. The review high... morelights both the system's capabilities and its significant shortcomings. While FSD Beta demonstrates an ability to navigate complex highway sections, maintain lane centering, and even handle some challenging corners smoothly, it falters in critical areas. The system exhibited a concerning tendency to disregard stop signs, run red lights, and make questionable lane changes, even cutting off other vehicles. The driver monitoring system's response to inattentiveness was also scrutinized, with the car eventually stopping but not engaging the parking brake initially, and its lockout mechanism for misuse was detailed. Despite improvements over previous versions, the testers concluded that FSD Beta is still far from a fully autonomous system, requiring constant vigilance and often performing worse than basic Autopilot in certain scenarios. The review emphasizes that while FSD Beta is impressive in its ambition, it is not yet reliable for unsupervised driving. less

Around The World In A Tesla Roadster, Twice! The Incredible Story Of Ev Adventurer Rafael De Mestre

This video chronicles the extraordinary global adventures of Rafael de Mestre in his Tesla Roadster, a vehicle he has driven around the world twice. D... moree Mestre's mission is to promote electric vehicles as a viable solution to global problems, challenging range anxiety and demonstrating the ubiquity of charging infrastructure. He highlights the Roadster's surprising efficiency, capable of over 400 miles on a full charge with its upgraded 75 kWh battery pack. Despite its age and lack of DC fast charging, de Mestre emphasizes that with strategic planning, charging is readily available at hotels and even tire shops, often proving faster than refueling a gasoline car. The interview also touches upon the car's resilience, having survived a severe accident and been rebuilt, and the potential for sustainable shipping solutions. De Mestre is now organizing a 2024 global rally, inviting others to join legs of the journey, further promoting EV adoption and sustainable practices. less

I Drive The Hummer EV SUV For The First Time! Everything To The Max

The reviewer provides a first-time driving impression of the GMC Hummer EV SUV, specifically the Edition 1 trim. While acknowledging its "ludicro... moreusly stupid" and "anti-social" nature, the reviewer expresses a strong liking for the vehicle, highlighting its "insane" performance, "crazy" air suspension, and impressive "crab walk" feature. The SUV version is deemed more practical than the pickup due to its enclosed cargo space, suitable for dogs or general utility. A key takeaway is the perceived value, with the $106,000 price tag considered a "pretty good freaking value" compared to other high-end EVs, especially given its power, battery capacity, and advanced features. Despite some minor criticisms like potential roof creaks and early production battery logic issues affecting charging consistency, the reviewer concludes that the Hummer EV SUV is a "wild and exciting", "crazy" machine that GM was brave to produce, offering a unique and fun driving experience. less

Fixing My Cheap Nissan Leaf! On-Board Charger Replacement & Rav4 Ev History Lesson w/ Qc Charge

This video details the replacement of a failed onboard charger in a 2012 Nissan Leaf, a common issue for this model year. The host, Kyle, visits QC Ch... morearge, a specialist EV repair shop, to address the problem. The shop, known for its expertise in older EVs like the Toyota RAV4 EV and Mercedes B-Class Electric, performs the repair. The discussion highlights the historical significance of these early EVs, particularly the RAV4 EV's partnership with Tesla, and the unique challenges of maintaining them. The Leaf's onboard charger failure is identified as a weak point, with replacement costs estimated between $800-$1200. The video also touches upon battery degradation in Leafs due to a lack of thermal management, especially with frequent DC fast charging. Overall, the content provides valuable insights into EV maintenance and the evolution of electric vehicles. less

I Finally Drive The Cadillac Lyriq EV For The First Time! Our Most Anticipated Review Yet

The Cadillac Lyriq Luxury RWD is finally put to the test, addressing the significant demand from viewers. The reviewer highlights its comfortable ride... more, exceptionally quiet cabin, and impressive Super Cruise system on pre-mapped highways, positioning it as a strong highway cruiser. The interior, particularly the steering wheel and shifter, offers a premium feel that exceeds expectations for its price point. However, the review points out several drawbacks: the flimsy and oversized charge port door, the lack of a front trunk, and concerning build quality issues, including rattles and creaks, especially noticeable with bass-heavy audio. While the acceleration is adequate for daily driving, it's not performance-oriented, and the DC fast charging performance was noted as potentially weak and variable, with the car's own software predicting unusually long charging times. Despite these issues, the Lyriq is praised for its value, offering a refined experience that punches above its mid-$60,000 price tag, making it a compelling option in its segment. less

Full Tour Of The Electric Vehicle Learning Center Providing Necessary Ev Education For All Ages

This video offers an in-depth tour of the Electric Vehicle Learning Center (EVLC), a non-profit organization dedicated to EV education for all ages. T... morehe reviewer highlights the critical need for such an institution, noting that fundamental EV knowledge is often lacking even among enthusiasts, unlike the well-understood mechanics of combustion engines. The EVLC aims to demystify EV components through hands-on classes, covering everything from basic principles to full vehicle conversions. The tour showcases a Volkswagen bus conversion project, a battery-building class for younger students, and emphasizes the volunteer-driven nature of the center. The reviewer praises the initiative for its potential to foster a new skilled workforce and increase general EV literacy, strongly encouraging viewers to support the EVLC through donations or by attending classes. less

Tesla Powered Electric Classic Mini Makes For An Incredible Motoring Experience!

This video showcases an exceptional electric conversion of a classic Mini by Gildred Racing, utilizing a Tesla Model S drivetrain. The reviewer, a sel... moref-proclaimed Mini enthusiast, is thoroughly impressed, highlighting the car's incredible handling, character, and the seamless integration of modern EV technology into a vintage chassis. The 300 horsepower Tesla motor provides exhilarating acceleration, though it often overwhelms the car's chassis and brakes, leading to wheelspin and a "scary" but thrilling driving experience. While the $120,000 price tag is steep and the car lacks modern amenities like traction control and DC fast charging, its unique appeal, bespoke interior, and the promise of holding value make it a compelling, albeit niche, proposition for wealthy collectors seeking an unparalleled driving experience. The reviewer concludes that this electric Mini offers a "dream come true" for enthusiasts, delivering immense fun and a unique character unmatched by any other vehicle on the market. less

This Town Is A DC Fast Charging Hub Between Los Angeles & San Francisco

This video provides an in-depth look at Kettleman City, California, a crucial DC fast charging hub situated halfway between Los Angeles and San Franci... moresco. The reviewer highlights the sheer density of Tesla Superchargers in the area, noting the presence of multiple large installations, including one with 54 stalls and another with 76, totaling over 100 Tesla-only chargers. The review contrasts this with the significantly smaller Electrify America and EV Range installations, which offer fewer chargers and, in the case of Electrify America, are plagued by issues like faulty credit card readers and inconsistent charging speeds, particularly for high-voltage vehicles like the Lucid Air. The reviewer praises Tesla's integrated approach, including amenities like lounges and efficient grid utilization with Mega Pack battery storage, while criticizing the Spartan and often unreliable nature of public CCS networks. The key takeaway is that while CCS infrastructure is expanding, Tesla's network remains the superior and more reliable option for road-tripping EVs in 2023, though the landscape is expected to change in 2024 with broader Supercharger access. less

Full Tour Of Large Electric Vehicle Event! This Is Tesla Takeover 2023

This video offers a comprehensive tour of the Tesla Takeover 2023 event, showcasing a wide array of electric vehicles beyond just Tesla, including Luc... moreid, Porsche, and Ford. The hosts highlight numerous aftermarket vendors and innovative showcases, with particular interest in electric camping solutions. The review touches upon various products and modifications, such as Unplugged Performance's S Apex, new Aero wheels, and MagBak curb protectors, offering personal impressions and insights. A notable segment details the EVject adapter, designed for emergency breakaway from charging stations, though the hosts emphasize the need for further testing to ensure its safety and reliability. The video also features a look at Tesla's energy products and a ride in the gamma version of the Aptera, providing a glimpse into the future of EV technology and community engagement. While the event itself is praised for its community spirit, the hosts express a slight disappointment with the term 'influencer tent,' preferring 'content creator.' less

Mercedes Amg Eqe Suv 70-Mph Highway Range Test

The Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV undergoes a rigorous 70 MPH highway range test, yielding a real-world result of 272 miles. While the reviewer notes the effic... moreiency isn't spectacular, particularly with the performance-oriented Michelin Pilot Sport EV tires and large wheels, the overall comfort and refinement of the AMG EQE SUV are highlighted as significant strengths. The vehicle's quiet cabin, smooth ride, and comfortable seating contribute to a premium experience, even during extended periods. Despite the efficiency not being class-leading, the 272-mile range from a performance variant of a mid-size SUV is considered a very good outcome. The reviewer also touches upon the vehicle's quick acceleration and decent chassis dynamics, making it a compelling, albeit expensive, option for those seeking a sporty electric SUV. less

Tesla Megacharger! Visiting A DCFC Location With Over 100 EV Chargers. Welcome To Baker, CA

This video provides an in-depth look at the expanded Tesla Supercharger site in Baker, California, highlighting its significant upgrades, including a ... moreTesla Megacharger and a large battery storage system. The reviewer praises Tesla's legendary efficiency in building reliable and cost-effective charging infrastructure, noting the impressive scale of the site with over 100 charging stalls combined from Tesla and Electrify America. Key takeaways include the integration of a Tesla Megapack for energy storage and peak demand shaving, and the introduction of the Megacharger itself, a mobile unit designed for the Tesla Semi, capable of high-voltage, high-power charging. While impressed by the infrastructure, the reviewer points out potential limitations of current V3 Superchargers, particularly regarding power conversion capability and the need for 1000-volt support to accommodate future high-voltage EVs. The video also touches on the Electrify America installation, noting its disparity in scale compared to Tesla's offering at the same location. Overall, the Baker site is presented as a glimpse into the future of high-capacity, sustainable EV charging. less

I Deep Froze My Tesla And Immediately Plugged It Into A Supercharger To See What Happens

First Kandi K27 EV Drive - The Cheapest New Car In The USA!

You Won't Believe How Much It Costs To Charge The Hummer EV!

Towing With An Electric Truck - Is It Cheaper Than Gas? Rivian R1T vs Ford F-150 PowerBoost

They Don't Work In The Cold...

Tesla Model Y Refresh Full Tour! My First Look At New Juniper Changes

Latest Additions