THE GREAT EV FREEZE FIASCO, FORD LIGHTNING SWITCHGEAR AND RAM PROMASTER EV DEBUT

EV Channels Review

The Batteries Included podcast tackles the significant EV charging challenges experienced during Chicago's polar vortex, debunking both anti-EV 'fud' and the notion that EVs are not ready for prime time. The consensus is that while some infrastructure issues and driver inexperience exacerbated the problem, the core issue was a confluence of factors including cold-soaked batteries, limited charging capacity, and a lack of driver education on battery thermal management. The hosts emphasize the critical need for more robust Level 2 charging infrastructure, especially for urban dwellers and ride-share drivers who lack home charging. The episode also highlights Ford's F-150 Lightning Switchgear demonstrator, showcasing its off-road capabilities with upgraded suspension and tires, and the impressive performance of the SuperVan 4.2, which tackled Pikes Peak and a racetrack with remarkable agility, underscoring the potential of EV platforms.