THEY DON'T WORK IN THE COLD...

EV Channels Review

This video highlights a critical failure in new Electrify America (EA) charging hardware, specifically BTC Power units co-developed with SK Signet, which are rendered inoperable in cold temperatures (tested down to -6°F / -21°C). The reviewer, Kyle, experienced complete failure with multiple new EA chargers in Loveland, Colorado, encountering 'isolation test timeout' errors across different vehicles (Rivian R1T, Kia Niro, Polestar, Leaf). In stark contrast, older ABB units continued to function reliably in the cold, and Tesla Superchargers also worked without issue. The investigation expanded to other networks in Denver, where EVgo's Delta and Signet units, as well as ChargePoint's CPE 250, performed well in the cold, though ChargePoint's Express Plus unit showed issues. Delta 350kW units were found to derate significantly in the cold. The core issue identified is the apparent lack of adequate cold-weather testing for the new EA hardware, leading to a critical reliability problem for EV road trips in winter conditions. The reviewer concludes that for reliable long-distance travel in cold weather, CCS vehicles are currently not recommended, suggesting Tesla or combustion engine vehicles as alternatives.