Compatible OBD2 Adapters for LeafSpy
LeafSpy is a must-have application for an informed Nissan Leaf owner. I bought my Nissan Leaf EV used, and the deep diagnostics provided by LeafSpy confirmed that I bought a car with a healthy battery. However not all Bluetooth OBD2 adapters are compatible, I’ve tried adapters that I already owned and none had connected properly […]
Why I bought a 10-year old Nissan Leaf
People say that EVs cost less to run, but cost more to buy (than conventional ICE cars). But does that always need to be the case? Used EVs are proving to be good value thanks to depreciation, and their batteries are holding up better than expected over time. Here is an extreme example. I needed […]
How much more efficient are EVs while using AC vs. Windows on the highway
Most people already know that in the summer, using air conditioning uses less fuel/energy than rolling down windows, especially at high speeds on the highway. The increased aerodynamic drag creates a higher resistance to motion than running HVAC with AC. But how much of a difference is it? I wanted to find out with a […]
How to cancel Premium Connectivity Subscription for Tesla
Premium Connectivity is an optional data connective subscription to enhance your Tesla ownership experience with additional Entertainment, Navigation, and remote Sentry Mode functions. It works over a cellulite network LTE modem build into every Tesla. Premium Connectivity is a recurring monthly (or yearly) subscription that is billed to your credit card on file. For months […]
Chevy Equinox EV Driven – Best Range For The Money
I’ve never really been excited about the previous generations of the Equinox nameplate, but the current Equinox EV is one of the best electric SUVs on the market right now. It delivers a lot of capability for the money, it’s the right size, it goes far, and it looks good. Chevy had just surpassed Ford […]
Tesla Cabin Air Filter Replacement – Important Maintenance
The big selling point of EVs is low maintenance cost, right? Mostly yes, but it’s still a car with moving parts and circulating air. If you never go in for service, you may forget that the cabin air filter needs replacement at regular intervals. The quality of the in-cabin air will depend on the condition […]
EV Charging Adapters Explained – Four Common Adapters & Which Ones You Need
Why are EV charging adapters needed? In North America, electric vehicles fall into two camps: ones with a NACS (also known as Tesla) port and most of the others have CCS (Combined Charging System) port. In short, we had two competing standards. Tesla cars & Tesla infrastructure vs. all other EV makers and very fragmented […]
Hyundai Kona Electric Driven – Great Compact SUV, but Charging Needs Improvement
The new Kona Electric is a very well rounded, compact electric SUV. The 64.8 kWh battery versions are priced in the low $40k in the US, and high $40k in Canada, and you do get a lot of car for your money. In my time with the Kona Electric, I enjoyed the comfort and efficiency […]
Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5 EV – The Ultimate EV Winter Tire
At the end of every winter, I usually try to swap my winter tires for summer/all-season tires at the earliest possible opportunity. Here in the Toronto area of Canada, that usually means in the second week of March. Because summer tires are generally more pleasant to drive on, in terms of comfort, handling, and efficiency. […]
Are EV Winter Tires Actually More Efficient? Testing the Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5 EVs
Winter driving in cold climates means higher consumption. It is true for both EVs and gasoline combustion cars. You’re battling more dense cold air, snow/slush on the roadway, and increased HVAC demands to keep passengers comfortable. Winter tires are designed for increased winter safety and control, and they do this with large sipes in their […]