James and Kate - The EV Team offers an in-depth look into the world of electric vehicles, drawing from over a decade of personal ownership and extensive driving experience. Covering more than 50,000 miles annually, this distributor delivers candid reviews and engaging road trip narratives featuring the latest EV models. Their content uniquely emphasizes the practical realities of integrating these vehicles into family life, providing viewers with authentic insights.
The channel's expertise is evident in its comprehensive coverage, spanning popular models like the Nissan Leaf, MG ZS EV, Renault Zoe, and Hyundai Kona Electric. Through detailed reviews and long-term assessments, James and Kate - The EV Team aims to demystify EV ownership and guide potential buyers by showcasing real-world performance, battery capabilities, and the day-to-day usability of electric cars for families.
The channel's expertise is evident in its comprehensive coverage, spanning popular models like the Nissan Leaf, MG ZS EV, Renault Zoe, and Hyundai Kona Electric. Through detailed reviews and long-term assessments, James and Kate - The EV Team aims to demystify EV ownership and guide potential buyers by showcasing real-world performance, battery capabilities, and the day-to-day usability of electric cars for families.
Nissan Leaf Muxsan Battery Upgrade
This video details the installation of a Muxsan battery upgrade kit on a 7-year-old, 95,000-mile Nissan Leaf taxi. The process, while extensive and taking two full days for the first installation, is thoroughly documented, covering the removal of the original battery, routing new high-voltage cab...
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Our Tesla, 3 Years & 40K Miles Later
After three years and 40,000 miles, the hosts share their comprehensive ownership experience of their Tesla Model S 75. They highlight the car's ... moresurprisingly robust interior durability and impressive acceleration, noting its 0-60 time of 5.2 seconds. While acknowledging the initial concerns about cost and size, particularly for UK roads, they found it manageable with practice and camera assistance for parking. Key positives include the convenient pre-heating via the app, a massive and practical boot, and the excellent Tesla Supercharger network, which made long journeys effortless. However, they point out significant drawbacks such as limited rear headroom for taller individuals (especially without a panoramic roof) and challenges with fitting small children into the rear seats due to the roofline. Reliability issues, though minor and quickly resolved, included a noisy airbox, a vibrating undershield, and a handbrake caliper recall, with the car being off the road for a total of three days. The infotainment system, initially overwhelming, became appreciated for its functionality despite occasional Spotify glitches. Ultimately, despite the high price tag, they express deep affection for the car, citing its performance, driving experience, and the emotional significance of milestones achieved with it, concluding they will miss it immensely. less
Toyota Yaris Self Charging Hybrid Review
The Toyota Yaris Hybrid is presented as an economical "self-charging" supermini, but the review highlights significant caveats. While praise... mored for its practicality, including ample boot space and comfortable seating, its performance is a major drawback. The 1.5-liter engine paired with a CVT gearbox results in sluggish acceleration after initial get-up-and-go, and the gearbox itself is described as noisy and a "real drag" at higher speeds. The reviewer strongly disputes the "self-charging" marketing, demonstrating that the battery is primarily recharged by the petrol engine, not through genuine energy harvesting. Real-world fuel economy averaged between 47-52 mpg, falling short of advertised figures, and costing £140 in petrol over 1000 miles. While acknowledged as a potentially good option for those unable to plug in, the reviewer ultimately finds the driving experience boring and prefers a traditional petrol car or a fully electric vehicle due to the Yaris Hybrid's compromises in performance and its misleading marketing. less
400 Dora E Rider - Review And Range Test
This review tests the "£400 Dora E Rider," a second-hand electric motorcycle purchased for a remarkably low price. The reviewer highlights i... morets simplicity, noting the 1500W hub motor eliminates chains and sprockets, promising minimal maintenance. Key features include a secure ignition, LED headlight, and an easily removable 60V 20Ah battery. Despite initial skepticism about its claimed 70km range, the real-world test on a cold, windy day yielded impressive results. The rider, James, found the bike comparable to a 50cc moped, capable of handling steep hills and reaching speeds around 35 mph. He was particularly impressed that after 34 miles, the battery was not fully depleted, and a spare was included. The reviewer concludes that for its price, especially when bought second-hand, it's an extraordinary and exceptionally cheap EV, ideal for city commuting, though its top speed limits it on faster roads. The main drawbacks noted were the bumpy ride on poor roads and the significant impact of cold weather and wind on the rider's comfort. less
Jaguar I-Pace -- Review
The Jaguar I-Pace, specifically the 'First Edition' trim, is presented as a premium electric SUV with impressive performance and build quali... morety. Reviewers highlight its exhilarating acceleration, refined ride thanks to air suspension, and a luxurious, well-thought-out interior with comfortable, highly adjustable seats and desirable features like heated/ventilated seats and a head-up display. The Meridian sound system is lauded as the best they've experienced. However, significant drawbacks are noted. The infotainment system's software can be slow, and the dual-screen controls are found to be overly complicated and prone to accidental inputs. While the boot space is adequate, it's considered smaller than a Tesla Model S. The most critical con is the real-world range, which falls considerably short of the official figures, with one charge yielding only 186 miles under typical driving conditions. Despite its many strengths, the range limitation and the established convenience of Tesla's Supercharger network make it a difficult proposition for those considering a swap from a Tesla Model S, leading to a verdict that it's a great EV to drive and experience, but not a replacement for their current vehicle. less
2018 Smart EQ Fortwo Quick Review
The 2018 Smart EQ ForTwo is reviewed as a fun, nippy city car with excellent handling and a surprisingly spacious interior for its size. Its compact d... moreimensions and tight turning circle make it ideal for urban environments and easy parking. The upgraded 22kW onboard charger is a significant improvement, addressing previous range anxiety for longer trips. However, the review highlights several drawbacks: limited range (60-70 miles in current conditions), excessive road noise, a basic infotainment system with a retro speedometer display, and a high list price of over £23,000. While praised for its efficiency and maneuverability, the consensus is that the negatives, particularly the price and noise, make it a niche product, suggesting a used model or a larger EV might be a better value proposition for most buyers. less
Hyundai Kona Electric It's Amazing
The Hyundai Kona Electric is presented as a compelling alternative to more expensive EVs, offering a blend of luxury, power, and long-range capability... more at a significantly lower price point. The reviewer highlights its surprisingly spacious interior, comfortable seating, and practical boot space, noting excellent headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The SE trim is described as well-equipped, featuring LED headlights and blind-spot monitoring. Performance is praised, with the reviewer particularly impressed by the one-pedal driving experience and the auto-recuperation system, which can bring the car to a complete stop. The vehicle's handling and ride quality are deemed excellent, with a commendably tight turning circle. A key takeaway is the impressive battery efficiency, with only a 1% drop in battery after aggressive acceleration tests. The reviewer concludes that the Kona Electric offers exceptional value and freedom, even comparing it favorably to a Tesla Model S in terms of overall capability for most daily driving needs, making it a highly recommended choice. less
Have An EV, You Need A Good Charging Infrastructure, Right?
This video documents a long-distance EV road trip challenge between two Nissan Leaf 30 kWh models, comparing the Polar Network and Ecotricity's E... morelectric Highway. The primary focus is on the reliability and availability of charging infrastructure across the UK. Both drivers, despite using different networks and employing contrasting driving styles (one 'hare' and one 'tortoise'), encountered minimal issues with the charging infrastructure, with Polar Network chargers being consistently available and working. The reviewer highlights the Leaf's lack of significant throttling on its 30 kWh battery, a positive point compared to newer models. Ultimately, the challenge concludes with one driver arriving significantly ahead, attributing some of the difference to strategic charging stops and driving efficiency. The overall verdict on the charging infrastructure is positive, deeming it largely reliable for long-distance EV travel. less
Mercedes B-Class Electric Drive
The Mercedes B-Class Electric Drive is presented as a surprisingly competent and underrated EV, leveraging Tesla's running gear with Mercedes... more9; build quality. Reviewers highlight its exceptional interior space, comfort, and premium feel, making it highly practical for families, particularly for ingress/egress and fitting child seats. The driving experience is described as smooth, comfortable, and surprisingly powerful, with strong acceleration and effective regenerative braking, comparable to or even preferred over rivals like the BMW i3 and even the Tesla Model S in some aspects. Positives include excellent seat comfort, a well-designed infotainment system, and a suite of advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring and collision prevention. The primary drawback identified is the lack of rapid charging, with charging times on single-phase taking around 4kW and on three-phase drawing 11kW, making long journeys potentially inconvenient despite the car's otherwise long-distance suitability. The 'e-cell' range extender is clarified as not a separate battery but a power restriction indicator. Despite its rarity and lack of marketing, the B-Class Electric Drive is lauded for its build quality, refinement, and overall driving pleasure, making it a highly recommended, albeit hard-to-find, used EV. less
Brace Yourself For The Estrima Biro!!!
The Estrima Biro is presented as a quirky, purpose-built urban mobility solution, ideal for car sharing, deliveries, and short-distance commuting. The... more reviewer highlights its incredibly small footprint, making it perfect for navigating congested city streets like London, where it easily bypasses traffic and congestion charges. The build quality is surprisingly good, featuring laminated glass for excellent visibility and a tubular steel frame. Inside, it's basic but functional, with two pedals and a single stalk. A key feature is the optional removable battery pack, allowing for convenient home or office charging in under 30 seconds. While range is limited (around 100km for the larger battery), and charging is slow, the Biro excels in its intended environment. The reviewer notes its suspension is better than the Renault Twizy, and acceleration is surprisingly good for its size. It comfortably seats two, though it's cozy for taller individuals. The main drawbacks are the lack of a heater (though a winter pack is mentioned) and its limited top speed of 45 km/h. The reviewer concludes that while not a long-range commuter, the Biro makes absolute sense for city use, offering extremely low running costs. less
Fully Charged Live Q&A Part 3
This video captures a Q&A session from Fully Charged Live, featuring various EV enthusiasts and content creators discussing the event and broader ... moreEV topics. The participants express enthusiasm for the event's scale and its focus on serious EV adoption, noting the high attendance of individuals genuinely looking to switch to electric vehicles. Key discussions touch upon the potential for similar events in North America, the practicalities of EV ownership (charging, range anxiety), and specific vehicle features like the Nissan Leaf's ProPILOT system, with mixed but generally positive feedback on its capabilities for highway driving. Electric motorcycles, particularly the Zero DSR, are also highlighted for their surprising performance. The overall sentiment is that the EV movement is gaining significant momentum, supported by a growing infrastructure and ecosystem, and events like this are crucial for knowledge sharing and informed decision-making. less
Nissan Leaf 40 kWh And Its Rapid Charge Issues
This video chronicles a challenging 450-mile EV road trip from Leicestershire to Aberdeen in adverse winter conditions (-5°C, snow). The primary focus... more is on the real-world performance and charging issues encountered by three EVs: a 30 kWh Leaf, a 40 kWh Leaf, and a 28 kWh Hyundai Ioniq. The reviewer, driving the 40 kWh Leaf, highlights significant rapid charging limitations, particularly after multiple charges, where the car's charge rate dropped considerably due to battery thermal management restrictions. Despite these issues, the 40 kWh Leaf ultimately performed better than expected, reaching the destination with 7% remaining, while the smaller-battery Ioniq also proved surprisingly capable. The 30 kWh Leaf, however, faced substantial charging delays, spending over 90 minutes at one stop. The reviewer criticizes the charging infrastructure's user interface and the Leaf's thermal management system, suggesting it needs improvement for long-distance, cold-weather driving. Ultimately, the smaller-battery Ioniq surprisingly outperformed the 40 kWh Leaf in terms of consistent charging, though both reached the destination. less
2018 40 kWh Nissan Leaf Review Part 1
This video review of the 2018 40 kWh Nissan Leaf Tekna highlights significant improvements over its predecessor, particularly in styling, which is now... more described as aggressive and modern, shedding the 'ridiculed' image of older models. The interior also sees thoughtful updates, including a more prominent and user-friendly infotainment screen, relocated cupholders for better ergonomics, and improved seat materials (half leather, half Alcantara). Performance is a key focus, with the reviewer noting the 147-148 bhp output makes the Leaf feel significantly quicker than its 8-second 0-60 time suggests, especially in initial acceleration. The e-Pedal system is praised for offering intuitive control and effective regeneration. While real-world range is not fully detailed in this part, the reviewer indicates they achieved 190 miles with 20% battery remaining on a mixed-use test, suggesting good efficiency. The reviewer also commends Nissan's improved dealer network expertise in EVs. Ultimately, the Leaf is positioned as a strong all-rounder, with the reviewer placing it at the top of its class due to its balanced performance, improved design, and superior build quality compared to rivals, even more expensive ones. less
Volkswagen E Golf Review And Range Test
The 2018 Volkswagen e-Golf is presented as a competent and refined electric hatchback, offering a driving experience that rivals its internal combusti... moreon engine counterparts in terms of build quality and comfort. The review highlights its excellent passenger space and first-class legroom, along with a well-integrated infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though the gesture control is noted as a novelty rather than a consistently useful feature. The real-world range test, conducted in low temperatures at a steady 70 mph, yielded 109 miles with the heater on, a figure deemed impressive given the conditions. However, the optional 850-pound resistance heater significantly impacts range, a point of contention for the reviewer. Criticisms also extend to the car's availability, a challenging dealer experience for owners, and a poorly functioning mobile app. Despite these drawbacks, the e-Golf is praised for its efficiency and smooth driving dynamics, making it a compelling, albeit hard-to-acquire, EV. less
4 Days And 526 Miles In A Renault Twizy
This video documents an ambitious 526-mile journey in a Renault Twizy, undertaken from Aberdeen to Hinckley. The reviewer highlights the extreme cold ... moreand its significant impact on the vehicle's range, which was considerably less than the advertised 30-50 miles, often dipping to around 33 miles and requiring frequent charging stops. The lack of creature comforts, such as heating, made the experience particularly challenging. However, the journey was made possible by the incredible support and hospitality of the EV community, with numerous individuals offering charging points, food, and accommodation. Despite the numerous logistical hurdles and the inherent discomforts of the Twizy for such a long trip, the reviewer expresses a fondness for the vehicle, appreciating its fun factor for local use and its surprising resilience. The core takeaway is the power of community in enabling such an undertaking, rather than the Twizy's suitability for long-distance travel. less
Leaf 24 kWh vs Leaf 30 kWh - 450 Miles
This video pits two Nissan Leaf variants, a 24 kWh and a 30 kWh model, against each other in a 455-mile race from Leicestershire to Aberdeen. The revi... moreewer highlights the significant difference in charging speed between the two, with the 30 kWh model charging considerably faster, especially at rapid chargers. Despite the 30 kWh model's advantage, the 24 kWh variant's driver employed various strategies, including tire pressure adjustments and meticulous energy management, to stay competitive. The reviewer notes the 30 kWh model offers a more luxurious and stress-free experience, akin to a Tesla, while the 24 kWh requires more effort. Ultimately, the 30 kWh model wins, but the 24 kWh driver put up a valiant effort, showcasing the Leaf's overall reliability and capability for long journeys, albeit with varying levels of comfort and charging convenience. less
Cutting It Fine In A Nissan E-NV200
The reviewer embarks on a challenging delivery journey with the Nissan E-NV200 van, highlighting significant range anxiety due to cold weather and the... more vehicle's frontal area. Despite initial fears and a near-empty battery situation on several occasions, the van ultimately completes the delivery. The reviewer notes the vehicle's ability to cope better with terrain than expected and praises its liquid-cooled battery system, which prevents overheating during charging. However, the primary takeaway is the struggle with range, particularly when the heater is in use, and the unreliability of certain charging networks (specifically CYC). The reviewer concludes by opting for a train journey back, acknowledging the environmental benefits over flying. less
Long Distance Travel In An EV - It's Cheap
The reviewer embarks on a 500-mile journey in the Volkswagen E-Up, a vehicle typically suited for urban use, to test its long-distance capabilities an... mored charging costs. Despite initial range anxiety and the need to use the heater in cold weather, the E-Up proves surprisingly capable, though not without its challenges. The reviewer highlights the convenience and speed of CCS charging, noting that a full charge can be achieved in under 30 minutes. However, the limited range necessitates frequent stops, and the availability of CCS chargers, particularly in Scotland, is noted as a concern. The reviewer experiences moments of range anxiety, arriving at chargers with zero miles remaining, and admits to some planning errors. Ultimately, the E-Up completes the journey on time, with the reviewer expressing a positive overall experience, finding the trip cheap and thoroughly enjoyable despite the fatigue. less
BYD E6 Review And Range Test
This review of the BYD E6 taxi highlights its surprising impressiveness, particularly for its intended purpose. The vehicle is praised for its spaciou... mores interior, massive boot space with a practical spare wheel, and effortless driving experience thanks to its auto gearbox and regenerative braking. Drivers report overwhelmingly positive feedback, appreciating the quiet operation and low running costs, with fuel expenses being minuscule compared to diesel. The real-world range is deemed reliable, with drivers achieving around 160-190 miles on a full charge, which is considered more than adequate for city taxi work. While the styling is described as somewhat unrefined and reminiscent of older models, and the interior is noted as plasticky and hard-wearing, these are seen as acceptable trade-offs for a taxi. The reviewer also points out the lack of official sales in the UK as a missed opportunity for BYD, given the car's economic sense, practicality, and potential to introduce many people to EVs. The charging infrastructure and renewable energy source powering the fleet are also significant positives. less
Chris Ramsey On The Mongol Rally
Chris Ramsey recounts his groundbreaking experience completing the Mongol Rally in an electric car, a feat previously considered impossible for EVs. D... moreespite the immense challenges, including navigating treacherous roads in Kazakhstan and relying on the kindness of strangers for charging, Ramsey emphasizes the car's resilience and the incredible hospitality encountered. The journey highlighted the need for charging infrastructure and challenged perceptions of EV limitations, proving they are not just city cars. While the car endured significant wear, its performance exceeded expectations, especially considering the extreme conditions. Ramsey also touches upon the upcoming Nissan Leaf 2.0, noting its improved aerodynamics and aesthetics, and expresses optimism for its market appeal and the broader adoption of EVs in long-distance travel. less
Mitsubishi I-Miev - A Great Little EV
This video chronicles a 120-mile journey to collect a Mitsubishi i-Miev, highlighting its suitability for local use despite its small battery and limi... moreted range. The reviewer notes the i-Miev's DC rapid charging capability as a key convenience. During the drive, the car's range indicator proved unreliable, fluctuating significantly and causing anxiety as the battery depleted, especially on inclines. While the reviewer acknowledges the i-Miev's comfort and features for its class, they emphasize that its true value lies in town driving, where its limitations are less apparent. The charging experience at a third-party station was marred by app issues and a slow charge time. Ultimately, the reviewer concludes that for its low running cost (£4 for 120 miles), the i-Miev is a fantastic option for local journeys, provided users accept the minor inconveniences associated with its range and charging. less
Another EV Replaces A Diesel
This video features Steve test-driving a Nissan Leaf with the intention of purchasing it to replace his VW Golf TDI for a 40-mile daily commute. The r... moreeviewer highlights the Leaf's comfortable ride, spacious interior suitable for four adults, and the intuitive nature of its driving controls, particularly the "one-pedal" driving experience facilitated by regenerative braking. Steve, new to EVs and automatics, finds the Leaf easy to adapt to, noting its smooth acceleration and responsive handling, even around corners. The discussion touches upon battery technology, the "12-bar" battery health indicator, and the energy information display. While the reviewer praises the Leaf's overall appeal and ease of use, the video doesn't delve into specific trim levels or detailed performance figures beyond general impressions. The reviewer's main takeaway is that the Leaf sells itself, making it a strong contender for first-time EV buyers. less
Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV Handover In Paris
This video documents the handover of a Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV in Paris, following a 500-mile drive from the UK. The reviewer highlights the vehicle... more's seamless transition between electric and petrol power, and praises its impressive real-world fuel economy, achieving 46.1 MPG on the journey, despite initial skepticism about the quoted figures. The Outlander PHEV is presented as a versatile option, suitable for both long-distance travel on petrol and local, emission-free school runs when charged. The reviewer was particularly impressed with the heated leather seats and the overall comfort of the 'fully loaded' trim. Despite a minor issue with toll road costs, the overall verdict is highly positive, with the reviewer expressing significant satisfaction with the car's performance and practicality, even admitting to being converted from a general dislike of petrol hybrids. less
BMW 330e
The BMW 330e offers a comfortable and smooth driving experience, feeling like a conventional car with the added benefit of electric-only capability fo... morer shorter journeys. Reviewers praised its quiet operation in EV mode and the seamless transition to the petrol engine when needed. However, the infotainment system and controls were found to be overly complicated for new users, and the electric range fell short of the advertised 25 miles, with real-world results closer to 18-20 miles. The boot space is compromised by the battery, and the lack of a spare wheel is noted. Despite these drawbacks, the 330e is considered a strong contender in the PHEV market, particularly for those transitioning from internal combustion engines, offering a refined driving experience that surpasses rivals like the Golf GTE in terms of quietness and comfort. The high price point and its suitability primarily for corporate users or as a tax-efficient vehicle are also highlighted. less
Peugeot Partner EV 600 Mile Range Test
This video chronicles an ambitious 600-mile electric van road trip from London to Aberdeen in a Peugeot Partner EV. The reviewer, initially skeptical ... moreof French vehicles and the van's stated range, embarked on the journey with a pragmatic approach, documenting numerous charging stops and detours. Key observations include the van's surprisingly comfortable interior, particularly the improved legroom due to the relocated gear selector, and its robust, hard-wearing seats. Despite initial range anxieties and a close call with zero miles remaining on a hilly stretch, the van proved capable of covering significant distances. The reviewer highlights the unreliability and slow charging speeds of some public charging networks, which ultimately led to the reviewer missing a flight. However, the overall verdict on the van itself is positive, with a strong recommendation to test drive it if in the market for a commercial electric vehicle, despite its potential scarcity. less