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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A Petrol Head, The Tesla And A Chap Named Bill
This video offers a compelling, albeit informal, introduction to the Tesla Model 3 for a self-proclaimed petrol head. The reviewer effectively highlig... morehts the car's instant torque and smooth, quiet ride, contrasting it with traditional internal combustion engines. The guest, Bill, is particularly impressed by the acceleration, likening it to a roller coaster. The video touches upon the regenerative braking system, explaining its function in recapturing energy. While the reviewer acknowledges the high purchase price, he strongly advocates for considering the lower running costs, including fuel and reduced maintenance, as significant advantages over petrol cars. The discussion around Autopilot and parking assist also provides a glimpse into the car's advanced technology. The overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with the guest's conversion from skeptic to enthusiast serving as a strong endorsement. less
Another Nissan Leaf On The Road
This video documents the delivery of a Nissan Leaf Techna to a customer, highlighting its user-friendly features and practicalities for daily commutin... moreg. The reviewer praises the Leaf's exceptional audio system, describing it as superior to that in a Tesla, and commends the effectiveness of the 360-degree camera system for parking. The efficiency of the heat pump and heated seats is noted, along with the car's impressive real-world economy, estimated between £0.02 and £0.03 per mile. The reviewer debunks common myths about auxiliary systems draining the battery, emphasizing that only the heater and air conditioning significantly impact range. The video also touches upon the driving experience, particularly the 'B' mode for enhanced regeneration and the 'Eco' mode's throttle mapping, assuring the new owner that even in Eco mode, full power is accessible by pressing the throttle fully. The narrative reinforces the idea that driving an EV, like the Leaf, is a transformative experience that often leads to owners abandoning their previous internal combustion engine vehicles. less
Another 1500 Miles In The Tesla
This video documents the return leg of a 1500-mile road trip in a Tesla, focusing on the driving experience and charging infrastructure. The reviewer ... morehighlights the car's faultless performance and the convenience of Autopilot, which significantly eased the long journey, especially during nighttime driving. Charging stops, while necessary, are presented as relatively quick, particularly when utilizing the Tesla Supercharger network, which is praised for its efficiency compared to older charging experiences. The cost savings of electric driving are emphasized, with the trip costing significantly less than an equivalent internal combustion engine vehicle. Despite the fatigue of long-distance travel and missed scenery due to darkness, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, reinforcing the practicality and value of the Tesla for such journeys. The reviewer also touches upon the unexpected generosity of a B&B providing a universal charger, showcasing a broader commitment to EV adoption. less
Another 1500 Miles In The Tesla -- Part 1
This video documents a 1500-mile round trip to Orkney in a Tesla Model S 60, highlighting the practicality and cost-effectiveness of electric vehicle ... moretravel. The reviewer emphasizes the seamless use of the Supercharger network and 'Charge Your Car' services, describing the journey as largely "painless low cost travel." The car's performance is praised, with the reviewer noting it "did the driving" for much of the trip and "doing fantastically" overall, even exceeding 10,000 miles during the journey. Despite some challenges with roadworks and speed restrictions, the overall sentiment is highly positive, with the Tesla Model S 60 being lauded as "the best thing in the world" (second only to the reviewer's partner). The video also touches upon the scenic beauty of Orkney and its commitment to renewable energy, suggesting a potential future move to the area due to its environmental credentials and EV infrastructure. less
10,000 Mile Mongol Rally In A Nissan Leaf Interview With Chris Ramsey
This video features an interview with Chris Ramsey, who is preparing to undertake the 10,000-mile Mongol Rally in a Nissan Leaf. The core of the discu... moression revolves around the feasibility and purpose of this extraordinary journey. Ramsey, who transitioned to full-time EV advocacy after being made redundant from the oil and gas industry, aims to challenge misconceptions about electric vehicle range and charging infrastructure, particularly in remote regions. The Nissan Leaf, a 30 kWh model, has undergone minimal modifications, focusing on weight reduction and suspension upgrades, with no changes to the drivetrain or battery. The rally's primary goal is to raise funds for indigenous Amazonian people and rainforest protection, aligning with the ethos of sustainable energy. The interview highlights the supportive nature of people encountered during charging stops and the potential for EVs to inspire change. While the journey is acknowledged as challenging, Ramsey expresses confidence in his and his wife's ability to complete it, emphasizing the adventure and cultural immersion aspects. less
Nissan Leaf Handover To Green Party Councillor Janet Alty
This video documents the handover of a used Nissan Leaf to Janet Alty, a Green Party Councillor. The reviewer highlights the Leaf's suitability f... moreor town driving and its nippy performance, comparing it favorably to other cars aside from Tesla. Key features discussed include the regenerative braking system (with 'B' mode), the Eco button's impact on throttle mapping, and the infotainment system's navigation and energy information screens. While acknowledging the infotainment isn't as intuitive as a Tesla's, the reviewer finds it manageable with practice. The car's quietness and refinement are praised, though the reviewer notes the need for drivers to be more aware of their presence due to the lack of engine noise. The video touches on range anxiety, explaining the 'gasometer' display and how driving style affects projected range. The reviewer expresses a fondness for the Leaf, stating they would still be driving one if a larger battery option were available, and contrasts the current used market for EVs with Tesla's inflated prices. Overall, the Leaf is presented as a practical, enjoyable, and environmentally conscious choice, particularly for local commuting. less
Smart ED - Twizy Fun With Doors And A Heater
The Smart ForTwo Electric Drive (ED) is presented as a quirky, yet practical urban EV, offering impressive maneuverability and surprisingly good inter... moreior space for its compact size. Reviewers highlight its zippy acceleration for city driving and its capability on country lanes, though its top speed is limited to around 70-75 mph. Real-world range is estimated at 80-85 miles, which is considered sufficient for daily commutes and school runs, especially given the low running costs (around 2p per mile). The car boasts a comfortable ride on good roads, though it can be firm and bumpy on uneven surfaces. Positives include a fantastic heater, effective air conditioning, heated seats, and a good stereo system. However, the steering is noted as being heavy, and the lack of rapid charging is a significant drawback. Despite these points, the reviewers found it to be a fun and enjoyable car to drive, particularly appreciating its small turning circle and ease of parking. It's recommended as an excellent second car for short-distance urban use. less
24 Hours In A Tesla Model X
The Tesla Model X 90D, configured with seven seats, is presented as a compelling alternative to traditional luxury SUVs. Reviewers highlight its excep... moretional styling, spacious interior capable of comfortably seating seven adults, and surprisingly agile handling for its size, even outperforming the Model S in driving dynamics. The Falcon Wing doors, initially a point of contention due to their perceived ostentatiousness, ultimately proved practical and impressive, particularly for accessibility. Comfort is a major plus, with the seats lauded as the most comfortable ever experienced, featuring effective heating and ventilation. While the autopilot system is noted as being slightly substandard compared to other Teslas, and rearward visibility through the rearview mirror is limited, these are minor drawbacks. The overall verdict is overwhelmingly positive, with the Model X 90D being recommended over luxury combustion engine rivals due to its performance, comfort, and the inherent advantages of electric powertrains, including significant cost savings on fuel and maintenance. less
30 Minutes On A Zero Dsr Electric Motorbike
The reviewer was thoroughly impressed by the Zero DSR electric motorcycle, describing its acceleration as "bonkers" and "outrageous,&qu... moreot; feeling significantly faster than its 3.9-second 0-60 mph time suggests. The regenerative braking system was lauded as "fan bloodytastic" and provided excellent control, especially through tight bends. Despite initial skepticism as a traditional biker accustomed to internal combustion engines, the reviewer found the handling excellent and the ride quality superb, even on poor road surfaces. The real-world range is consistently around 100 miles, matching the manufacturer's claims and owner experiences. While the reviewer loved the performance and versatility, the steep price point of around £12,000 was a significant barrier, making it a purchase they couldn't justify for their personal usage, though they acknowledged prices may drop over time. Ultimately, the reviewer highly recommends trying the DSR for its exhilarating performance and low running costs, even if it doesn't replace the visceral experience of a petrol bike for everyone. less
20 Minutes With A Toyota CH-R Hybrid
The Toyota CH-R Hybrid, while visually appealing and boasting impressive build quality, falls short of expectations in several key areas. Reviewers fo... moreund the 1.8L petrol engine paired with the CVT gearbox to be excessively noisy and sluggish, particularly when acceleration is needed. The hybrid system's electric-only range is limited to approximately 10 miles, and the brake regeneration is surprisingly weak, feeling more like a conventional braking system. The infotainment screen, though large, is described as slow and dated in its interface. Despite its attractive exterior and interior design, and a comprehensive list of standard safety features like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring, the CH-R Hybrid's performance and real-world fuel economy (45 MPG achieved versus a claimed 72.4 MPG) are significant drawbacks. The reviewers concluded that while it's a step up from the aging Prius and Juke, it feels more like a sideways move than a true advancement, ultimately recommending against purchasing it for those transitioning from petrol cars. less
Kate Tries To Flog A Tesla
This video documents an informal attempt by Kate to persuade her friend Paul to consider purchasing an electric vehicle, specifically her Tesla. The p... moreremise is lighthearted, focusing on Paul's experience with the car over an hour, with the hope that this hands-on trial will encourage his transition to EV ownership. The content appears to be more of a personal anecdote and social experiment rather than a detailed vehicle review. Key takeaways are centered around the social aspect of EV adoption and the personal experience of a potential new EV driver, rather than technical specifications or performance metrics. less
2017 Renault Zoe 41kWh Review
The 2017 Renault Zoe with the 41kWh battery upgrade is reviewed, with the hosts finding it a competent city car and a potentially good first EV, but u... moreltimately falling short as a second EV or for longer journeys. Key criticisms include a lack of improvement in regenerative braking, noticeable vat pump noise, and a skittish ride on poorer surfaces. While the interior is described as simple and tidy, the seats are deemed uncomfortable with poor side support, and rear headroom is limited. Real-world range is significantly lower than the NEDC rating, with hosts estimating around 130-150 miles, making the cost of public charging (£18 for a full charge on Ecotricity) prohibitively expensive compared to home charging or internal combustion engine alternatives. Despite some refinements over previous models, the reviewers feel the improvements are not substantial enough to justify the price, especially when compared to rivals like the BMW i3, Hyundai Ioniq, and Nissan Leaf, leading to a "thumbs down" verdict for their personal purchase considerations. less
Tesla Test Drive Part 9
This video features Steve, a new Tesla driver, taking the Model 3 for an extended test drive. The primary focus is on the vehicle's performance, ... moreparticularly its acceleration, which Steve finds "absolutely incredible" and "ridiculous." The handling is also praised as "beautiful" and "amazing." Autopilot is highlighted as a positive feature on the motorway, though it proves less effective on country lanes, frequently prompting the driver to take control. A significant point of discussion is the limited rear headroom for taller individuals (6'6"), suggesting the panoramic roof as a solution. The video also touches upon battery software limitations and the high cost of upgrades. While the Tesla receives a strong endorsement for its driving dynamics and speed, the reviewer notes the common Tesla test drive limitation of only 20 minutes, advocating for longer, unaccompanied drives to truly assess a vehicle's suitability. The discussion briefly diverges into the merits and drawbacks of diesel cars, particularly concerning emissions and maintenance, contrasting them with EVs like the Renault Zoe and BMW i3. less
Another Taker For The Tesla
This video features Jonathan Porterfield taking a Tesla Model S for a spin, specifically highlighting its Autopilot and adaptive cruise control featur... morees. The reviewer notes the car's impressive screen size, strong regenerative braking, and the convenience of the speed limit display. A key takeaway is the comparison between the 60 kWh and 75 kWh battery variants, with the reviewer concluding that the 60 kWh model, despite being a restricted 75 kWh battery, offers significant value for its price, especially considering the substantial cost difference for the 10 kWh gain. The reviewer also touches upon the car's comfortable ride on springs (compared to air suspension), the usefulness of the parking sensors, and the overall positive experience with Autopilot on motorways, though acknowledging the need for driver vigilance. The discussion extends to the residual value of used Model S vehicles, particularly those with free Supercharging, and the mechanics of how Supercharging transfers with ownership. The lease cost is also mentioned as a viable alternative to home charging for high-mileage drivers. less
Kate And I Try Out The Peugeot Ion
This review of the 2012 Peugeot Ion highlights its surprising practicality and affordability as a used EV. The hosts commend its ease of use, particul... morearly for first-time EV buyers, noting its conventional key ignition, actual handbrake, and intuitive 'fuel gauge' style display. They appreciate its compact size, making it ideal for urban environments, and its surprisingly comfortable ride height and easy ingress/egress, contrasting it with sportier seats found in other EVs. While acknowledging its limited range (around 60 miles in winter, up to 93 in summer under ideal conditions) and the older resistive heater's inefficiency, the review emphasizes its low running costs (around 2-3p per mile) and rapid charging capability (17 minutes on DC). The car is presented as a "cracking bargain" for its current market price of £5,000, down from its original £27,000-£28,000, making it an attractive option for local commuting. less
Let's Empty The Tesla 0% Charge
This video documents an ambitious attempt to drain a Tesla Model S 60 to 0% charge, revealing the actual usable capacity of its software-limited 75kWh... more battery pack. The hosts aimed to discover the real-world range under typical driving conditions, including highway speeds and urban traffic, while keeping climate control and heated seats active. Despite driving over 200 miles and reaching a point where the car indicated zero range and reduced climate control, the vehicle still had residual power, making a complete depletion impossible without risking being stranded. The experiment ultimately confirmed that the "60" model can reliably deliver over 180 miles, and potentially closer to 200 miles, on a single charge, even with significant energy usage from comfort features. The recharge data indicated a usable capacity of at least 62.5 kWh, exceeding the advertised 60 kWh, providing valuable reassurance for owners of this specific variant. less
1 Tesla Model S And 3 Happy Customers
This video showcases three distinct customer experiences with the Tesla Model S, featuring a local YouTuber, the host's daughter, and her boyfrie... morend. The reviewer highlights the Model S's impressive acceleration and solid ride, though notes the suspension can feel firm on uneven roads, a trade-off for not opting for air suspension. The autopilot feature is discussed, with mixed reactions regarding its ease of use, particularly for less experienced drivers. A significant point of discussion is Tesla's test drive policy, with the consensus being that the current 20-minute drives are insufficient for potential buyers to truly assess the vehicle. The reviewer advocates for longer, unaccompanied test drives to better gauge suitability for family use and daily driving. The video also touches upon the growing mainstream acceptance of EVs and addresses common concerns about battery life and charging infrastructure, debunking some of the earlier negative perceptions. less
Beth, The Tesla, The I3 And The Leaf
This video presents a comparative test drive of the BMW i3, primarily focusing on its suitability for a 21-year-old driver, Beth, as an alternative to... more a Tesla Model S and Nissan Leaf. Initially, Beth expresses a strong dislike for the i3's exterior design, likening it to a "box" and "ugly." However, after driving, her opinion shifts significantly. She praises the i3's smooth driving experience, responsive acceleration, and surprisingly spacious interior, noting the positive impact of recycled materials. The reviewer highlights the i3's efficient operation in stop-start traffic, its strong regenerative braking capabilities (including bringing the car to a complete stop), and its exceptional maneuverability due to a small turning circle. Despite the initial aesthetic reservations, Beth finds the i3 a compelling option, particularly for its low running costs (£4 to charge, potentially lasting a week) and potential insurance savings. Ultimately, while acknowledging the i3's strengths, Beth leans towards the Nissan Leaf, citing a preference for its interior and exterior design and a perceived better driving feel, though she admits the i3 is a strong contender and would recommend it. less
Kate And I Test Out The New Hyundai Ioniq EV
This video review of the Hyundai Ioniq EV highlights its strengths as a practical family car, particularly praising its interior layout, build quality... more, and generous boot space. The reviewer notes the car's similarity to Kia models, especially in the infotainment system and interior design, which is seen as a positive. Key features like the digital clocks, physical climate control buttons, heated seats, and heated steering wheel are appreciated. While the car is described as nippy with good torque, its driving dynamics are considered 'okay' rather than exceptional, with some criticism regarding road and tire noise compared to rivals like the Nissan Leaf. The real-world range is a point of discussion, with the reviewer skeptical of the claimed 175 miles, estimating a more realistic 120-125 miles under mixed driving conditions, though they did achieve 136 miles from a 28 kWh battery at an average of 200 Wh/mile. A significant point of contention is the exterior styling, with one reviewer finding it unappealing compared to the Leaf, while the other defends it as looking like a conventional car. Comfort for long journeys is also debated, with one reviewer finding the seats potentially too firm. less
Tesla Model S 2500 Mile Roadtrip
This video chronicles a 2500-mile road trip in a new Tesla Model S, from the UK to Bordeaux, France, via Geneva. The reviewer highlights the car'... mores impressive performance and range, noting that the navigation system accurately predicted remaining battery levels. While the "camper mode" and sleeping in the car were functional, the experience was not luxurious. The reviewer details their specific configuration choices, opting for the most affordable "60" variant with upgraded seats, a solid roof (instead of panoramic), and the autopilot package, while foregoing options like air suspension and premium sound to manage costs. The autopilot system is praised for its utility on long journeys. The trip involved numerous Supercharger stops, with charging times generally being efficient, though the cost of coffee and tea along the way was noted to be significant. The reviewer also touches on minor issues like the toll tag needing to be held out the window and a brief visit to Tesla for a wiper adjustment. Overall, the Model S is presented as a capable and reliable long-distance cruiser, with the reviewer expressing satisfaction with their chosen specifications. less
Tesla P85D 2000 Mile Road Trip
This video documents a 2000-mile road trip in a Tesla P85D, serving as an extended test drive to justify a potential purchase. The reviewer highlights... more the car's impressive efficiency, particularly noting a remarkable 3 miles per kWh at 85 mph, which they find almost unbelievable. The autopilot feature is praised for its ease of use and ability to make the driving experience 'chilled' and 'faultless,' with the reviewer noting minimal manual steering input required. The spacious interior, panoramic roof, and excellent stereo system are also cited as significant positives. While the initial charging stops are detailed, the reviewer emphasizes the car's capability to cover long distances with minimal fuss. The overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with the reviewer expressing a strong desire to purchase the vehicle based on this extensive real-world experience. less
20 Year Old vs Nissan Leaf
This video presents a father attempting to convince his 20-year-old daughter, Beth, that electric vehicles (EVs) are a viable alternative to internal ... morecombustion engine (ICE) cars, using a Nissan Leaf as the test vehicle. Beth, accustomed to her Peugeot 208, initially finds the EV driving experience, particularly the lack of a clutch and gear changes, unfamiliar. However, she quickly adapts, appreciating the Leaf's smooth, powerful acceleration and quiet operation, especially in contrast to her current car's juddery clutch. The reviewer highlights the ease of driving, the effectiveness of regenerative braking, and the potential cost savings on charging compared to petrol. While Beth initially leans towards her familiar Peugeot, she ultimately concedes that the Leaf's driving experience, smoothness, and power are significant advantages, suggesting she could get used to it. The video touches upon charging costs, range considerations for longer journeys, and briefly mentions other EVs like Tesla and BMW, positioning the Leaf as a strong contender for everyday use. less
24 Hours With a BMW I3 (REX)
This 24-hour review of the BMW i3 with Range Extender (REX) highlights its efficiency, quickness, and spacious interior as significant positives. The ... morereviewer praises the car's strong regenerative braking, which allows for one-pedal driving and can bring the vehicle to a complete stop, a feature they found superior to the Nissan Leaf. The interior, noted for its recycled materials and modern design, also offers impressive front-seat space, making the Leaf feel comparatively small. However, the primary drawback identified is the steering, described as overly reactive, skittish, and lacking self-centering, requiring constant micro-adjustments for straight-line driving. This made the drive less relaxing compared to the Leaf. The reviewer also noted the limited availability of CCS charging and the quirky rear-opening doors, though they found the latter less problematic than expected. Despite the steering issues, the reviewer acknowledges the car's efficiency and overall appeal, but ultimately prefers the more relaxing driving experience of the Leaf. less
Trying to Flog a Nissan Leaf
This video chronicles a cold-weather journey in a Nissan Leaf, highlighting its performance and charging characteristics in sub-zero temperatures. The... more reviewer notes the significant impact of cold on battery range and heating efficiency, with the car showing 72 miles of range at 97% charge. Initial driving reveals harsh regenerative braking, which softens after a few minutes. The Leaf's range calculation appears to adjust after initial motorway driving. Charging stops are necessary, with a brief wait at one station. A key takeaway is the positive reception from the reviewer's brother and his girlfriend, who are considering purchasing a Leaf, particularly interested in future models with extended range. The test drive reveals the car feels like a normal automatic, with smooth acceleration and minimal noise, though the reviewer points out the lack of adaptive cruise control as a drawback. The video also touches on the Leaf's regenerative braking capabilities, energy display, and the difference between Eco mode and normal driving. The reviewer's brother and his girlfriend are impressed and considering a four-day test drive. less