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Ford upgrades the 2027 Mustang Mach-E with a bigger standard battery and a brand-new Trail trim, while Tesla pushes its Unsupervised FSD timeline further into 2027. Plus, we dive into Lexus bringing DC fast charging to the NX plug-in hybrid, Mercedes' ridiculously powerful new AMG GT SUV, and GM's next-generation EV platform. It's another packed episode of The Friday Charge from EV Geek Studios!

⚡ IN THIS EPISODE:

🚙 2027 Ford Mustang Mach-E: A standard 88 kWh battery, a new Trail trim, and BlueCruise 1.5.

🤖 Tesla FSD & Cybercab: Unsupervised FSD moves to Q2 2027, while Cybercab deliveries could begin by the end of 2026.

🔌 Lexus NX PHEV: A bigger battery, 45 miles of electric range, and DC fast charging.

🏎️ Mercedes-AMG GT SUV: Up to 1,153 horsepower and claimed charging speeds of up to 710 kW.

🔋 GM's Next-Gen EV Platform: Better efficiency, lighter vehicles, new battery technology, and centralized computing.

👇 Which story interests you most? Let us know in the comments!

👍 Like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more EV news, reviews, and analysis from EV Geek Studios.

🎧 Listen to The Friday Charge wherever you get your podcasts!

🚨 Volkswagen is remotely limiting the charging capacity of more than 22,000 ID.4 electric SUVs in the US—and a potential battery fire risk is at the center of it all.

Welcome to EV Geek Studios' Mini Charge! In this episode, Joel breaks down Volkswagen's latest recall affecting select 2023–2026 ID.4 models and the controversial over-the-air update that automatically limits maximum battery charging to 80%.

Why is VW taking this approach? What does it mean for owners who paid for the full range of their EV? And should automakers be able to remotely change vehicle settings in the name of safety?

In this episode, we cover:

⚡ Volkswagen's recall affecting 22,524 ID.4 vehicles.

🔥 The battery overheating and fire risks associated with charging above 80%.

📱 How Volkswagen's remote charging restriction works through the myVW app.

🔋 The ongoing investigation into battery cells supplied by SK Battery America.

🚗 What losing access to 20% of your battery capacity could mean for road trips and daily driving.

🛠️ Volkswagen's search for a permanent fix and what affected owners might expect next.

We also discuss the bigger questions this recall raises about EV ownership, over-the-air updates, and the balance between vehicle safety and owner control.

ID.4 OWNERS: Would you accept the 80% charging limit or decline the setting and manage your charging yourself? Join the conversation and let us know what you think.

If you enjoy EV news, electric vehicle reviews, industry analysis, and conversations about the future of transportation, follow EV Geek Studios and The Friday Charge on Spotify.

Thanks for listening—and until next time, stay charged and stay geeky!

🚀 Tesla’s new Roadster is back, and the claims are absolutely wild!

Tesla’s next-generation Roadster promises performance that sounds like science fiction: a claimed 0–60 mph time of under one second, SpaceX-inspired cold gas thrusters, an onboard compressed-air system, and a projected driving range of up to 620 miles.

But there's a catch—and it could be the biggest story of the entire reveal.

On this episode of The Friday Charge from EV Geek Studios, we're breaking down Tesla’s latest Roadster announcement and exploring whether this futuristic electric supercar can live up to the hype.

⚡ In this episode, we discuss:

• 🚗 Mind-Blowing Performance: Can the Roadster really accelerate from 0–60 mph in less than a second?

• 🚀 Rocket-Inspired Technology: How Tesla's cold gas thrusters could take performance to an entirely new level.

• 🔋 The Range Question: How does the onboard air compressor work, and what happens to driving range when you use the thrusters?

• 💰 The Price Tag: A projected $200,000 starting price and reservation options reaching $250,000.

• ⚠️ The Fine Print: What Tesla's pre-order agreement says about delivery timing—and why potential buyers should pay attention.

• 🤔 Can Tesla Deliver? After years of delays, is the Roadster finally approaching production, or are we still waiting for the ultimate electric supercar?

The technology sounds incredible, but the unanswered questions remain. Is this the future of performance cars, or another round of big promises from Tesla?

THE BIG QUESTION: Would you put down $250,000 for a car with rocket-inspired technology when the delivery timeline isn't guaranteed?

🎧 Listen now, then share your thoughts with us!

EV Charging Hits a Major Milestone, Ford's New Electric Truck Waitlist Opens, and the VW ID.Buzz Could Be Making a Comeback!

It's another big week in the EV world! America's fast-charging network has officially surpassed 80,000 ports, Ford is preparing for its upcoming affordable electric pickup, Slate opens its first physical showroom, and Volkswagen's next-generation ID.Buzz is starting to sound more likely than ever.

In this episode, we're breaking down the biggest electric vehicle stories and what they mean for the future of EVs.

🔋 IN THIS EPISODE:

⚡ America's EV Charging Network Passes 80,000 Ports The latest Paren report reveals 80,964 DC fast-charging ports across the US. We look at Tesla's continued expansion, IONNA's rapid growth, Walmart's charging rollout, faster charging speeds, rising charging prices, utilization rates, and nationwide reliability.

🚙 Slate Opens Its First Brick-and-Mortar Store Slate has opened its first retail location in Chicago inside a former Tesla showroom. The location gives potential customers and fleet buyers a chance to see the upcoming vehicle in person and take a test ride.

🛻 Ford Opens the Waitlist for Its Affordable Fathom Pickup Ford is letting interested buyers sign up for invitations to preorder its upcoming electric pickup when preorders begin in 2027. With a targeted starting price under $30,000, an LFP structural battery pack, BlueCruise, Apple Maps, and bidirectional charging, could this be an EV worth waiting for?

🚐 Volkswagen's Next-Generation ID.Buzz Could Be Coming Remember when we discussed VW delaying the ID.Buzz's US return? New comments from the 2026 Paris Auto Show suggest the company is actively developing a next-generation model. We discuss the new SSP platform, the possibility of an LFP battery, lower production costs, updated styling, and the return of physical buttons.

Which of these stories matters most for the future of electric vehicles? Is America's charging infrastructure finally catching up? Could Ford's affordable pickup change the EV market? And would you buy a next-generation ID.Buzz?

Let us know in the comments!

👍 Like the video if you enjoy EV news and analysis. 💬 Subscribe for more electric vehicle news, reviews, industry trends, and deep dives.

 

The U.S. EV market is changing fast! ⚡ After a turbulent year, electric vehicle sales bounced back in Q3 2026—but the winners and losers might surprise you.

In this episode of Shift & Signal, we break down the latest Cox Automotive and Kelley Blue Book data to uncover what's really happening in America's electric vehicle market. EV sales climbed 7.7% quarter over quarter, market share rebounded to 6.5%, and some automakers are gaining serious momentum while others struggle to keep up.

🚗 In this episode, we cover:

• EV Sales Rebound: What the 7.7% quarterly increase tells us about the market.

• Tesla's Dominance: Why Tesla still commands 54% of the U.S. EV market despite declining sales.

• Toyota's Massive Surge: How Toyota and Lexus are making major gains in electric vehicles.

• Rivian's Big Quarter: What's driving the company's impressive growth?

• EV Prices Are Falling: Why the price gap between electric and gas-powered vehicles is shrinking.

• The Hybrid Boom: Why hybrids are becoming an increasingly popular choice for American drivers.

• What's Next for EVs? Could rising gas prices help spark another wave of electric vehicle adoption?

Is the U.S. EV market finally stabilizing, or is this just a temporary rebound? And with Toyota, Rivian, Tesla, and other automakers battling for buyers, which brands are best positioned for the future?

💬 Join the conversation: Would you buy an EV, choose a hybrid, or stick with a gas-powered vehicle? Let us know in the comments!

👍 Like the video, subscribe for more automotive news and analysis, and share this episode with someone interested in the future of electric vehicles.

Volkswagen is replacing the ID.4 with an all-new electric SUV, and it brings back one of VW’s most recognizable names: the ID. Tiguan! 🚙⚡

In this episode of EV Geek Studios, we break down the new design, upgraded interior, physical buttons, battery options, driving range, performance, and what this new electric SUV could mean for American EV buyers.

Can the ID. Tiguan compete with the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai IONIQ 5, and Kia EV6? And will Volkswagen finally deliver the electric SUV buyers have been waiting for?

Would you choose the new VW ID. Tiguan over a Tesla Model Y? Let us know in the comments!

Like the video, subscribe to EV Geek Studios, and turn on notifications for the latest EV news, reviews, and analysis.

Tesla’s new Emergency Drive Away feature could lead to $25,000 in repairs, Jaguar unveils its wild new Type 01 EV, and the Model 3 and Model Y are getting some big updates!

On this episode of EV Geek Studios, we break down the latest EV news:

 

Tesla Emergency Drive Away: Drive away from a Supercharger with the cable attached—but at what cost?

Jaguar Type 01: Over 1,000 horsepower, a 120 kWh battery, and a starting price around $172,000!

Mitsubishi Eclipse Sportback: New pricing raises questions about how it competes with the Nissan Leaf and other EVs.

Tesla Model 3 Updates: A new 16-inch display, improved performance, and more range.

Tesla Home Backup: Eligible Model 3 and Model Y vehicles can now power your home with Tesla Powershare.

 

Which story caught your attention? Let us know in the comments!

Like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more EV news, reviews, and analysis from EV Geek Studios.

Lucid just slashed Q3 production by 38% — but there's more to the story.

In this episode, we break down Lucid's Q3 2026 production and delivery numbers, its $1.38 billion inventory problem, the company's strategy under new CEO Silvio Napoli, and why the upcoming Cosmos could be critical to Lucid's future.

We also compare Lucid's numbers to Rivian and look at what comes next for the luxury EV maker.

Rivian just delivered a record-breaking Q3 2026, with 19,248 vehicles delivered—a 46% increase year-over-year and well above Wall Street expectations.

So why did RIVN stock drop after the news?

In this Mini Charge, we break down Rivian’s record deliveries, the rapid production ramp of the Rivian R2, the company’s 2026 delivery guidance, and why investors are still concerned about profitability and future growth.

We’ll also look at how Rivian’s results compare with Ford and GM as the EV market continues to shift.

Is Rivian finally ready to become a true mass-market EV company?

Tune in and stay charged! ⚡

BMW just opened U.S. orders for the NEW i3 Sedan—and it brings an impressive 440 miles of EPA range starting at $62,850!

This week we're also talking about:

⚡ EVgo's upcoming 750kW chargers 🇨🇳 Hyundai's $15,000 Ioniq V 🚐 VW ID.Buzz delayed until 2028 🔋 Tesla Model 3 gets V2L in China 🚗 And Joel's EV9 is dead…

There's a LOT happening in the EV world this week!

Subscribe to EV Geek Studios for more EV news, reviews, and analysis.

Tesla still dominates U.S. EV sales, but the battle for second place is changing. The Hyundai IONIQ 5 has become the top-selling non-Tesla EV, with sales up 9% in 2026.

We break down the numbers, why the IONIQ 5 is gaining ground, and whether Rivian R2 and other new EVs can challenge Hyundai

GM is making cheaper EV batteries, Bentley just unveiled an absolutely ridiculous electric SUV, and GM’s Apple CarPlay situation is somehow even more confusing than it was last week.

In today’s episode of The Friday Charge, we cover:

GM Is Making Cheaper Batteries GM is now putting recycled battery materials back into new EV batteries. The company says it can recover up to 95% of the nickel, cobalt and manganese — and 80% of the lithium — from old battery packs. And these recycled-material batteries are already being installed in customer vehicles.

There’s an Electric Bentley Bentley has finally unveiled its first EV, the Torcal, with up to 876 horsepower, a 2.8-second 0–60, an 800V battery, 400kW charging and a whole lot of luxury. And yes… it has a 100% Merino wool interior.

GM’s CarPlay Situation Gets Complicated Again After last week’s news seemed to suggest Apple CarPlay and Android Auto could be returning to more GM vehicles, GM has now clarified that its comments were not intended to signal a return to EVs. So what exactly is happening?

Plus: More EV news and our latest discussion on China, Geely, and the rapidly changing EV charging landscape.

Subscribe to EV Geek Studios for more EV news, reviews, deep dives and The Friday Charge every week!

 

Geely is teasing a massive 2.2-megawatt EV charging system that could potentially charge a compatible EV in just four minutes! In today's Mini Charge, we break down Geely's new charging technology, how it compares to BYD's megawatt charging systems, and what it means for battery health, thermal management, and the electrical grid. 2,200 kW of charging power Next-generation battery technology Four-minute charging claims Geely vs. BYD The future of ultra-fast EV charging Is 2.2 MW the future of EV charging—or is it overkill? 👇 Let us know what you think! Like & subscribe Turn on notifications Follow EV Geek Studios on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you listen

Hyundai’s CEO is warning that Chinese EVs could put major pressure on the U.S. market. 🇨🇳⚡

In this Mini Charge, we look at what’s happening in the UK and Europe, the U.S. tariff wall, Trump’s comments on Chinese automakers, and how Ford and Hyundai are preparing for the next wave of affordable EV competition.

Could $25K–$30K EVs change the American auto market? Watch and let us know what you think!

Ford is firing back at the U.S. Department of Transportation, IONNA is rapidly expanding its EV charging network, and Tesla’s Cybercab is facing some serious regulatory questions from NHTSA!

In this episode of The Friday Charge, Joel and Sebastian cover:

🚨 Ford vs. the DOT and the CATL controversy ⚡ IONNA’s rapid charging-network expansion 🏎️ The latest Tesla Roadster news 📱 GM and Apple CarPlay 🤖 NHTSA’s Cybercab investigation and what it could mean for Tesla’s robotaxi plans

Plus, we break down the latest EV news you need to know!

Subscribe to EV Geek Studios for more EV news, reviews, and deep dives.

General Motors has officially blinked in the great dashboard software war. After announcing a highly controversial ban on Apple CarPlay and Android Auto back in 2023, GM has entirely reversed course. Today, they revealed a brand-new infotainment UI debuting on the 2027 Chevy Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 that natively supports full smartphone mirroring. Even better? This new design is set to expand across their broader vehicle portfolio. In this Mini-Charge Episode, we break down the timeline of GM's attempt to build a walled software garden, the brutal consumer survey data that forced their hand, and why this new "window-in-window" split-screen compromise might actually be the perfect sweet spot for drivers.

 

 

 

The Tesla Roadster is FINALLY back — and Tesla just gave us a date. 🚀 After nearly 9 YEARS of waiting, Tesla has officially teased an October 1 reveal for the next-generation Roadster. But this isn't just another Roadster update. Tesla's latest teaser says "Go for launch", immediately bringing attention back to the long-rumored SpaceX connection and the possibility of rocket-powered technology being demonstrated with the Roadster. So what exactly is Tesla planning to show us? Could we finally see the production Roadster? Could Tesla actually demonstrate the infamous hovering technology? Or are we about to see another incredible prototype that still leaves customers waiting for production? The next-generation Roadster was first unveiled all the way back in 2017. Now, in 2026, Tesla appears ready to put the car back in the spotlight. The question is... Will Tesla finally deliver? And if the Roadster really does hover, will this become one of the most insane EV reveals we've ever seen? Watch the episode and let us know what YOU think Tesla is going to reveal on October 1! 👇 COMMENT BELOW: Would you actually buy a Tesla Roadster with SpaceX rocket thrusters?

Americans might finally be changing their minds about electric vehicles. ⚡🚗

Despite EV market share being down this year, the latest HERE-SBD EV Index reveals something surprising: 53% of surveyed drivers say they are more open to buying an EV than they were a year ago.

In this episode of The Friday Charge, we break down the numbers behind that shift—including the impact of gas prices, improving charging infrastructure, faster charging, increased range, and growing confidence in EVs as a practical purchase.

We also discuss another delay for Stellantis' EREVs, including the Jeep Wagoneer EREV and Ram 1500 REV, Volvo discontinuing the EX40 in the U.S., and why the upcoming EX60 and rumored EX50 could reshape Volvo's EV lineup.

Plus, new European data raises a major question about plug-in hybrids: Are PHEVs actually producing far more emissions than their official ratings suggest? With real-world emissions reportedly reaching six times their certified levels, we look at why owners aren't charging their PHEVs and how the EU plans to respond.

📺 Subscribe to EV Geek Studios for EV news, reviews, industry analysis, and deep dives every week.

👍 Like the video, drop your thoughts in the comments, and let us know: Are you more interested in buying an EV today than you were a year ago?

 

Tesla’s Cybercab is finally here—and the reaction is anything but simple. 

After nearly a decade of promises about a fully autonomous Tesla without a steering wheel, pedals, or expensive LiDAR sensors, Cybercab is now carrying real passengers in Austin.

But while Tesla is pushing toward a future of 24/7 autonomous robotaxis, federal regulators are already asking some very serious questions.

In this episode of EV Geek Studios, Joel breaks down the latest Tesla Cybercab developments, including the wild engineering decisions behind Tesla’s newest vehicle, the growing regulatory scrutiny, Tesla’s plans for overnight robotaxi service, and why public skepticism could become one of the biggest challenges Tesla faces.

 

 

Ford reportedly has massive goals for its upcoming electric truck, the Ford Fathom. According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, Ford has set a target of producing and selling 100,000 units of the Fathom in its very first year. If they achieve this, the Fathom would become the first non-Tesla EV in America to reach that kind of volume.

In this video, we cover:

Ford’s ambitious 100,000 Fathom production goal

Why pricing strategy will make or break the Fathom

Toyota’s extended delay for the Highlander EV & Getaway

The all-electric Range Rover specs: 333 miles of range, NACS port, & 35.4" water wading

Slate's new low and high-roof Cargo Van conversion kit for fleet operators.

From production targets and pricing strategies to off-road capability and commercial EVs, there’s a lot happening behind the scenes.

👉 Which of these EVs do you think has the biggest potential? Let us know in the comments!

Global EV sales are telling two VERY different stories in 2026. 🌎⚡

While Europe’s EV sales surged 33% in July, North America went in the opposite direction, with EV sales falling 27%. And that’s just the beginning.

In this episode of The Mini Charge from EV Geek Studios, Joel breaks down the latest global EV sales numbers for the first seven months of 2026 and explores why the electric vehicle market is increasingly splitting into regional winners and losers.

We’ll look at:

⚡ Global EV sales: Roughly 11.5 million plug-in vehicles sold worldwide so far in 2026 🇪🇺 Europe: EV sales up 33% in July, with France, Germany and the UK seeing major growth 🇺🇸 North America: EV sales down 27% in July as federal incentives disappear 🔋 BEVs vs. PHEVs: Battery-electric vehicles are surging while plug-in hybrids decline 🇨🇳 China: New Energy Vehicles reached a record 65.1% of retail auto sales ⛽ Gas cars in China: ICE vehicle sales plunged an astonishing 44% in July 🚗 BYD vs. Tesla: The two automakers continue to battle for global EV dominance 🌎 Chinese automakers: BYD, Geely, SAIC and Leapmotor continue expanding globally

The biggest question may not be whether the EV transition is happening — it’s where it is happening fastest.

With Europe accelerating, China transforming its automotive market, and North American sales slowing, can U.S. legacy automakers continue competing on the global stage?

Or are some automakers in danger of being left behind?

👇 What do you think? Is the United States falling behind in the global EV race, or is this just a temporary slowdown?

Let us know in the comments!

Walmart just hit a HUGE milestone in the EV world—and this could be the beginning of something much bigger.

The retail giant has officially opened its 100th Walmart EV charging location, with 400kW chargers and at least 8 charging plugs at each site. But 100 locations is just the beginning. Walmart says it plans to expand to thousands of EV charging locations by 2030 across Walmart and Sam's Club stores.

With roughly 90% of Americans living within 10 miles of a Walmart, this could become one of the most accessible EV charging networks in the country.

And Walmart isn't just installing chargers. The company is developing its own charging backend, working on credit card and tap-to-pay options, and building out a network designed around convenience and accessibility.

On this episode of The Friday Charge, Joel and Sebastian break down:

⚡ Walmart's 100th EV charging location ⚡ Why Walmart is installing 400kW chargers ⚡ The plan for THOUSANDS of charging locations by 2030 ⚡ Why charger reliability and the number of plugs may matter more than raw charging speed ⚡ Walmart's plans for credit card and tap-to-pay charging ⚡ What Walmart's massive retail footprint could mean for EV adoption ⚡ Tesla Cybertruck sales and Tesla's surprising $5,000 price increases ⚡ Hyundai's plan for 100 new models by 2030 ⚡ Hyundai's upcoming 600-mile Santa Fe EREV ⚡ Why bigger EV charging sites may be better for drivers

Is Walmart quietly building one of the most important EV charging networks in America?

Let us know what you think in the comments!

🔌 The Friday Charge is brought to you by EV Geek Studios.

 

Polestar has effectively been kicked out of the U.S. market—and the reason why is raising some serious questions.

Starting with model year 2027, Polestar has been denied authorization to sell its EVs in the United States under the federal government's new Connected Vehicle Rule. That means no new Polestar 2, Polestar 3, or Polestar 4 sales in America unless something changes.

But here's where this story gets WILD:

The Polestar 3 and Volvo EX90 are built side-by-side in South Carolina, share the same SPA2 platform, and have closely related software and technology. Yet Volvo received approval to continue selling the EX90 in the U.S.—while Polestar was denied.

And Polestar says the U.S. government hasn't even told them why.

In this Mini Charge, we break down:

⚡ Why Polestar was denied U.S. authorization 🇺🇸 How the Connected Vehicle Rule works 🇨🇳 How Polestar's ownership by China's Geely became a major issue 🚙 Why the Volvo EX90 was approved while the Polestar 3 wasn't 💰 Why Polestar is offering discounts of up to $25,000 ⚖️ Why a Polestar dealer is suing the automaker 🔥 Allegations that Polestar may have been planning its U.S. exit for years 📉 What this could mean for Polestar owners, resale values and future software support 🌎 What this means for other automakers with Chinese ownership or technology ties

And perhaps the biggest question of all:

Would YOU buy a Polestar 3 for nearly $25,000 off knowing the brand is being pushed out of the U.S.?

Let us know in the comments!

👍 Like the video 🔔 Subscribe to EV Geek Studios 💬 Leave your thoughts below

 

Vs under $30,000 are finally becoming a reality — and the next few years could completely change the electric car market. From the redesigned Chevy Bolt and Nissan Leaf to the upcoming Slate Truck, Kia EV3, and Ford Fathom, there are more affordable EVs coming than ever before.

In this episode of The Friday Charge, Joel and Sebastian break down the cheapest electric vehicles available in the U.S. right now, what you get for your money, and which upcoming EVs could shake up the market.

We cover:

⚡ 2027 Chevy Bolt — The cheapest new EV in America, with 262 miles of range and a starting price under $30K ⚡ 2026 Nissan Leaf — 303 miles of range in the base model and a major redesign ⚡ 2027 Toyota bZ — Toyota's more affordable electric crossover ⚡ 2027 Subaru Uncharted — Over 300 miles of range for around $35K ⚡ Chevrolet Equinox EV — 319 miles of range at its $35K starting price ⚡ Slate Truck — A bare-bones electric pickup starting around $25K ⚡ Ford Fathom — Ford's upcoming affordable electric pickup ⚡ Kia EV3 — One of the most anticipated affordable EVs coming to America

And the biggest question:

If you had $30,000 to spend on an EV, would you buy one today or wait for what's coming?

Let us know in the comments!

Subscribe to EV Geek Studios for more EV news, reviews, comparisons, and deep dives.

Genesis has finally pulled the wraps off its all-new GV90, but that's just the beginning of this week's EV news.

The GV90 is a massive electric luxury SUV packed with features that sound like they came straight from a concept car—including coach doors, no B-pillar, 657 horsepower, rear-wheel steering, air suspension, rotating front seats, heated wood floors, and even a built-in refrigerator. But with a huge 123 kWh battery producing just 310 miles of range, is Genesis leaving efficiency on the table?

And that's not all we're covering.

🤖 Waymo's Ojai robotaxi is now open to the public in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Phoenix. We'll talk about what this new Chinese-built EV means for the U.S. robotaxi market.

🚕 Tesla gets approval for robotaxis in Las Vegas, but there's a catch. Tesla wanted up to 5,000 vehicles across Clark County, including airport service. Instead, regulators approved just 10 vehicles, with strict geofencing, a 45-mph speed limit, and no airport service.

We'll break down the latest developments in the robotaxi race, compare Tesla's approval with competitors like Waymo and Zoox, and look at what these restrictions could mean for Tesla's autonomous driving ambitions.

Which story are you most interested in—the Genesis GV90, Waymo's Ojai, or Tesla's Vegas robotaxis? Let us know in the comments!

Subscribe to EV Geek Studios for more EV news, reviews, comparisons, and analysis.

 

 

EV Fast Charging Is Getting CRAZY Expensive — The DC Fast Charging Price War Explained! 

 

EV charging was supposed to be one of the biggest advantages of owning an electric vehicle. Charge at home overnight and you can drive hundreds of miles for a fraction of the cost of gasoline.

But hit the highway and plug into a DC fast charger… and suddenly the math can look VERY different.

In this Mini Charge episode, we take an inside look at the growing EV DC fast charging price war and the battle between some of the biggest players in the industry — including Tesla, Walmart, and IONNA.

Why can a fast charge cost 2–3 times more than charging at home? What are demand charges, and why are they such a huge problem for charging companies? Why are some networks pushing subscriptions and memberships? And how could stationary battery storage eventually help bring charging prices back down?

We break down how the fast-charging business actually works, including:

⚡ Why DC fast charging is so much more expensive than charging at home ⚡ How utility demand charges impact charging prices ⚡ Tesla's non-Tesla Supercharging pricing and membership strategy ⚡ Walmart's strategy for building its own fast-charging network ⚡ Why IONNA could become a major force in highway charging ⚡ Dynamic and time-of-use charging prices ⚡ How battery-buffered charging stations could lower costs ⚡ Whether EV fast charging can actually compete with gasoline ⚡ How YOU can save money on your next EV road trip

The EV charging market is changing quickly. More chargers, more competition, new business models, and billions of dollars of investment could ultimately mean better reliability and lower prices for drivers.

But for now, knowing where, when, and how you charge can make a HUGE difference.

👇 What do you think?

Who will ultimately win the EV charging war — Tesla, Walmart, IONNA, Electrify America, or someone else?

Let us know in the comments!

And if you enjoy EV news, reviews, analysis, and deep dives, make sure to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and turn on notifications so you don't miss the next episode of The Friday Charge from EV Geek Studios!

Toyota just dropped official pricing and specs for the 2027 Toyota bZ—and they’re holding the price line to defend their massive sales momentum. Starting at 34,980(36,576 with destination), the bZ is making a serious play against the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai IONIQ 5, and Kia EV3.

 

In this episode, we break down every trim level, battery option, and real-world range figure—plus why the $37,980 XLE FWD Plus might be the sweet spot of the entire lineup. 

 

🔥 WHAT WE COVER IN THIS EPISODE:

• 2027 Toyota bZ US & Canadian pricing breakdown
• 57.7 kWh vs 74.7 kWh battery specs and performance
• Why the 18" wheels give you 15 MORE miles of range than the 20" wheels
• Native NACS ports, battery preconditioning, and Plug & Charge upgrades
• Canadian market pricing and delivery timelines (Arriving Sept 2026!)
• Dealer strategy: Why buying a remaining 2026 bZ could save you thousands

💬 JOIN THE CONVERSATION:

Would you grab the 314-mile XLE Plus at $37K or spend the extra cash for the 338-hp AWD model? Leave your thoughts in the Q&A below!

📌 Connect & Follow EV Geek Podcast:

• YouTube: youtube.com/@theevgeekpodcast
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• Business Inquiries: info@evgeekstudios.com

 

Rivian just made some BIG changes to the R1 lineup for 2027—and one of them has R1S owners celebrating.

After years of requests, 2nd-row captain’s chairs are FINALLY coming to the Rivian R1S! And there’s more than just a new seating option.

In this episode, we break down everything changing for the 2027 Rivian R1S and R1T, including:

🔹 R1S Captain’s Chairs are finally here! 🔹 Heated seats, individual armrests, cupholders & folding capability 🔹 Captain’s chairs pricing and the packages required to get them 🔹 Rivian’s new Premium, Performance & Quad trim structure 🔹 The new Long Range and Power Upgrade options 🔹 New colors inspired by the upcoming R2 🔹 New standard wheels for the R1S and R1T 🔹 What’s changing—and what isn’t—for the R1T 🔹 The significant 2027 R1 price increases 🔹 Why the higher starting price isn’t quite what it looks like 🔹 The end of Rivian’s Standard/LFP configuration

The 2027 R1 lineup is getting simpler, more expensive, and arguably more customizable. But is Rivian’s new pricing worth it?

Let us know what you think: Would you choose the new R1S captain’s chairs or stick with the bench seat?

 

The official US pricing and EPA range figures for the 2027 Kia EV3 are finally revealed—and it’s even cheaper than expected! Starting under $30,000 with up to 321 miles of range, native Tesla NACS charging, and available AWD, the EV3 might just be the most important affordable EV of the year.

In this video, we break down all 5 trim levels (Light, Wind, Land, GT-Line, and GT), official battery specs, real-world charging speeds, and how the EV3 stacks up against rivals like the Chevy Bolt, Nissan Leaf, and Tesla Model 3.

 

⚡ KEY 2027 KIA EV3 SPECS: • Base Price: $29,890 ($31,385 inc. destination) • Top Range: 321 Miles (81.4 kWh FWD) • Standard Range: 221 Miles (58.3 kWh Light FWD) • AWD Power: Up to 288 HP (EV3 GT) • DC Fast Charge: 10% to 80% in 29 mins • Native Charging Port: Tesla NACS built-in

💬 What do you think of the Kia EV3 pricing? Would you buy the sub-$30k base model or pay extra for the 321-mile range? Let us know in the comments below!

🔔 SUBSCRIBE for more EV news, reviews, and market breakdowns!

#KiaEV3 #Kia #ElectricVehicles #EVNews #CarReview #AffordableEV #TechNews

The EPA said 301 miles... real-world testing said 337! 🚗⚡ 

In this episode, we break down why the 2027 Audi Q6 e-tron is destroying official range and efficiency estimates—and how it managed to beat its expensive platform-twin, the Porsche Macan EV. 

We look under the sheet metal to analyze Audi's brand-new PPE 800V platform, hair-pin stator motors, silicon carbide inverters, and thermal management to reveal how luxury EVs are finally getting light and efficient.

💡 KEY TAKEAWAYS: • 12% Range Bonus: Tested at 337 real-world miles vs 301 EPA miles. • 16% Efficiency Gain: Observed 29.3 kWh/100 miles (beating 35 kWh estimate). • Next-Gen Tech: 800V architecture, 270 kW DC fast charging (10-80% in ~21 mins). • Pricing Advantage: Beats the Porsche Macan 4S range while costing $20,000+ less.

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#ElectricVehicles #AudiQ6etron #Audie-tron #EVNews #AutomotiveTech #EVEfficiency #Podcast

Ford has officially revealed the name of its upcoming affordable electric pickup—and it's called the Ford Fathom. More importantly, Ford has also given us our first look at pricing, and it could shake up the entire EV truck market.

With a starting price of just $28,350 (before destination), the Ford Fathom is positioned to compete directly with the Slate Truck while offering a four-door cabin and an impressive list of standard technology.

 

Could the Ford Fathom become the affordable electric truck buyers have been waiting for? Or will competitors like Slate, Tesla, Rivian, and Chevrolet still have the advantage?

Watch now and let us know your thoughts in the comments!

👍 If you enjoyed this video, please Like, Subscribe, and turn on notifications so you never miss the latest EV news, reviews, and industry updates.

#Ford #FordFathom #ElectricTruck #EV #ElectricVehicles #EVNews #FordEV #BlueCruise #SlateTruck #Tesla #Rivian #Chevrolet #AffordableEV #EVGeekStudios

Volvo’s next electric SUV is coming to dethrone the Tesla Model Y—and it’s starting under $50,000! Built on Volvo's brand-new software-defined SPA3 platform, the upcoming EX50 delivers 800V ultra-fast charging, over 300 miles of range, and a roomier interior for thousands less than the outgoing EX40.

We dive deep into the numbers, production timelines out of Košice, Slovakia, and how Volvo plans to win over American EV buyers despite current trade tariffs.

#Volvo #EX50 #ElectricVehicles #TeslaModelY #EVNews #VolvoEX50

Audi just dropped preliminary specs for its cheapest EV yet—the all-new A2 e-tron—and it’s officially the most efficient Audi in the history of the brand! 

In this episode, we break down how Audi managed to extract an incredible 12.8 kWh per 100 km (4.85 miles per kWh) and up to 403 miles of WLTP range out of a compact footprint. 

Key topics covered in this breakdown: • The A2 Heritage: Reviving a legend for the electric era • Aerodynamic Tricks: Active grille shutters, air curtains, and a 0.24 drag coefficient • Battery Architecture: Cell-to-Pack LFP tech & an impressive 89.6% wallbox charging efficiency • Grid Tech: Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) and Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) bidirectional capabilities • Market Outlook: Sub-€40k European pricing... and why this model won't be coming to the US market

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to follow the show and leave a 5-star rating on Spotify!

#Audi #EVs #ElectricVehicles #AudiA2etron #AutomotiveTech #EVCharging

This week on The Friday Charge, Joel and Sebastian break down the biggest EV stories making headlines!

⚡ This week's topics include:

• Mercedes officially unveils the all-new GLA EV with 800V architecture, up to 320kW charging, and an impressive claimed range.
• Volvo drops LiDAR from the EX90 and ES90—what does this mean for the future of driver assistance and autonomous driving?
• The Rivian R2 is finally in the hands of reviewers! We discuss the first real-world highway range tests, charging performance, and whether its charging speed makes up for the lower-than-expected range.
• Plus, our thoughts on Hyundai's Pleos software platform and what it could mean for the future of connected vehicles.

Whether you're shopping for an EV, following the latest industry news, or just love electric vehicles, we've got you covered.

What do you think? 👇 Let us know in the comments:

• Is the Mercedes GLA EV a vehicle you'd consider?
• Does Volvo's decision to remove LiDAR make sense?
• Is the Rivian R2's real-world range good enough, or is charging speed more important?

👍 If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode of The Friday Charge.

Hyundai Motor Group is officially overhauling its digital cabin. Starting in 2027, Kia vehicles will begin featuring Pleos Connect—a brand-new, Android-based infotainment platform designed to power the next generation of software-defined electric vehicles.

In today’s episode, we break down what this major tech shift means for future EV owners:

• What is Pleos Connect and how does Android Automotive OS change the in-car experience? • Why Hyundai and Kia are keeping physical backup buttons alongside giant touchscreens. • Gleo AI: How context-aware voice assistance actually works on the road. • Scaling to 20 Million EVs: The plan for continuous over-the-air updates and a third-party app ecosystem.

Got thoughts on pure touchscreens vs. physical buttons in modern EVs? Leave a comment or send us a message in the Spotify app!

Enjoyed the show? Tap the follow button, leave us a 5-star rating, and share this episode with fellow EV enthusiasts.

#ElectricVehicles #EVNews #Kia #Hyundai #PleosConnect #CarTech #SoftwareDefinedVehicle #TheFridayCharge

BMW has officially built its 50,000th Neue Klasse iX3 electric SUV at its new Debrecen plant in Hungary—marking the fastest production ramp-up in BMW Group history.

Join us for a full breakdown of the flagship iX3 50 xDrive and the newly announced entry-level iX3 40. We discuss battery capacities, 800-volt 400kW charging speeds, real-world range, and BMW's plans for the upcoming iX4 and high-performance M models through 2027.

Enjoying the podcast? Hit the follow button and leave a 5-star review to support the show!

The world's best-selling car is finally going electric, but Toyota is facing an uphill battle it didn't see coming.

A rare behind-the-scenes look inside Toyota’s R&D center revealed prototype footage of the upcoming Toyota Corolla EV, alongside candid admissions from top leadership that the company is struggling to keep pace with rapid Chinese EV development.

Instead of a clean-sheet EV skateboard architecture, Toyota is underpinning the next-gen Corolla with a flexible platform designed for BEVs, Plug-In Hybrids, Traditional Hybrids, and Gas engines. Is this "one-size-fits-all" approach the ultimate bridge strategy—or a dangerous compromise in 2026?

In a massive strategy shift, General Motors is pivoting back to gas-powered vehicles. Following their latest earnings report, GM revealed that Chevy and Cadillac essentially have zero new or redesigned electric models planned for the next several years—focusing instead on updated gas engines and full-size trucks.

In this episode, we break down:

• Why GM is freezing its consumer EV lineup while taking over $10B in restructuring charges.

• What this means for existing models like the Equinox EV, Blazer EV, and Chevy Bolt.

• How global competitors like Hyundai and Rivian are stepping up to capture mass-market share.

• Whether GM's short-term profit play will cost them long-term dominance in the EV transition.

Is GM making a pragmatic business decision, or are they leaving the door wide open for rival automakers? Listen in and let us know your thoughts!

In this episode of The Friday Charge, we're breaking down the biggest electric vehicle stories of the week, including:

🔋 This Week's EV Headlines:

• Honda confirms the end of the Prologue after the 2026 model year
• Why Honda is betting big on hybrids instead of EVs
• Hyundai drops the price of the 2027 Ioniq 5 N by over $6,300
• The Ioniq 5 N switches to a native NACS charging port
• California launches a brand-new EV rebate program
• Hyundai's new $5 billion U.S. battery factory is now online
• Toyota delays the all-electric Highlander SUV
• GMC celebrates 25 years of Hummer with the limited-edition 2027 Hummer EV ICON | 25

Honda's decision is especially surprising considering the Prologue was one of America's best-selling EVs last year. Is this the right move, or is Honda giving up on the EV market just as competition heats up?

We also discuss Hyundai's growing investment in U.S. battery production, Toyota's continued reliance on hybrids, and why performance EV fans have a new reason to celebrate with a more affordable Ioniq 5 N.

👇 Let us know in the comments: Is Honda making a huge mistake by abandoning the Prologue? Or are hybrids the smarter path forward?

If you enjoy honest EV news and analysis every week, make sure to Like, Subscribe, and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode of The Friday Charge!

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get your podcasts.

California just signed a brand-new $3,500 instant EV rebate into law called "MyFirstEV" (SB 168)—but there is a massive catch hidden in the fine print.

While the new program is designed to help first-time buyers go electric with an on-the-hood, point-of-sale discount, a highly specific "headquarters loophole" completely waives the $50,000 price cap for California-based EV brands like Rivian and Lucid. Meanwhile, Tesla (now headquartered in Texas) gets left out in the cold on its premium models. In today's episode, we break down exactly how this new $3,500 rebate works, why it's sparking a massive political feud between Gavin Newsom and Elon Musk, and how you can take advantage of the cash before the state's funding completely runs out.

Are you looking to buy your first EV this summer? What do you think about this new loophole? Let me know in the comments!

Are electric vehicles actually dying, or are we just looking at the ultimate market correction?

In this episode, we are breaking down the official Q2 2026 EV sales data from Cox Automotive to separate the mainstream media narratives from what’s actually happening on dealership lots. With EV market share stabilizing at 5.8% after the post-incentive crash, the game has officially changed. We sit down with two industry experts to tackle the hard questions: Is the current hybrid boom a gateway or a massive roadblock for BEVs? Can legacy brands like Toyota actually catch Tesla despite Tesla owning half the market? And is a surging used EV market about to completely cannibalize new car sales?

If you want to understand where the automotive industry is actually heading over the next five years—without the hype—this is the conversation you need to hear.

Let us know in the comments: Are you buying a hybrid next, or waiting out the EV winter?

This week on The Friday Charge, Joel and Sebastian break down the biggest EV news stories you need to know! Tesla officially unveils the long-awaited Model Y L in the U.S. with six seats, a longer wheelbase, and a premium Launch Edition—but is it worth the price? We also discuss massive Polestar discounts of up to $25,000, Ford's recall of more than 42,000 Mustang Mach-Es, Waymo's expansion into Las Vegas and three additional cities, rumors that Tesla could require Face ID to activate Full Self-Driving, and GM's recall and delivery stop for the Cadillac Vistiq. Join us as we separate the hype from reality and explain what these developments mean for EV buyers and owners.

Think Tesla owns the charging game? Think again. Walmart just doubled its ultra-fast charging network in 60 days, and they’re solving the biggest problem in EV ownership. Here’s how the retail giant is leaving traditional networks in the dust.

Join Joel and Sebastian for The Friday Charge EP92 as we break down the biggest EV news of the week! We discuss Tesla's new FSD Lite rollout for HW3 vehicles, BMW's impressive new iX5 with 435 miles of estimated range and 460kW charging, Electrify America's expanding NACS rollout, Jeep's pricey new Recon EV, and the growing Cybertruck PCS charging issue. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and let us know which story caught your attention most! ⚡  

The premium electric SUV segment just got a massive wake-up call. On today's episode, we are diving deep into the massive news out of Munich: the official debut of the first-ever, all-electric 2027 BMW iX5 xDrive60. This isn't a minor refresh. Built on BMW’s dedicated "Neue Klasse" architecture, this luxury family hauler is completely rewriting the rules of highway range and road-trip charging speeds. We’re breaking down the full technical spec sheet, including: • The Structural Secret: How BMW used unique 120mm tall cylindrical cells in a cell-to-pack design to jam a massive 144 kWh usable battery pack under the floor—hitting a targeted 435 miles of EPA range (525 miles WLTP). • Meltdown-inducing Speeds: Why the iX5’s 460 kW peak DC fast-charging rate puts the competition on notice, pulling a 10% to 80% charge in just 22 minutes. • The Engineering Nuance: Why BMW ditched permanent magnets on the rear axle for an electrically excited synchronous motor managed by the 10x faster "Heart of Joy" supercomputer. • The Software-Defined Cockpit: A look at the pillar-to-pillar Panoramic Vision windshield projection and Alexa+ AI automated routines. • The Supply Chain Play: Why building the iX5 and its packs locally in Spartanburg and Woodruff, South Carolina is a genius operational shield against volatile automotive tariffs. Is an $81,250 starting price for a luxury EV with a 435-mile real-world range enough to make you switch your primary family hauler? Plug in, get the numbers, and let’s get into the charge!T

In this episode of The Friday Charge...

- Slate announces pricing

- The Polestar is dead.....in the U.S.

- Lucid layoffs

- Tesla new Supercharger contest

- EA going BIG on charging

Ford just dropped a absolute bombshell regarding the future of the Mustang Mach-E. Tucked away in a corporate Q&A, Ford officially confirmed that its highly anticipated, ultra-efficient "Universal EV" (UEV) platform will NOT be used for the Mach-E.

In this episode, we unpack why Ford CEO Jim Farley admits their first-gen electric vehicles were "designed the wrong way," the shocking 70-pound wiring harness difference between the Mach-E and the Tesla Model Y, and what this brutal pivot means for the survival of Ford’s most iconic electric passenger car. Is this the end of the electric pony? Let's dive into the data.

On this episode of The Friday Charge, Joel and Sebastian discuss:

-Ford Begins Production of their US LFP Cells

-Porsche "Updates" the Taycan for 2027

-BMW is on a ROLL! -

Telo Makes Big Claims

-Cybercab Specs are Out!

Questions? Comments? Interested in being a guest? Email us at info@evgeekstudios.com

If you logged onto Rivian’s configurator today, you’re in for a massive piece of sticker shock. Overnight—and without a single press release—Rivian quietly discontinued the absolute cheapest entry points into the R1T and R1S lineup. The Dual Standard trim is officially dead, raising the barrier to entry by a massive $7,000.

In this episode, we go beneath the surface to break down the real reasons behind the shift. We dive into the secret technical nightmare of LFP battery calibration that plagued the base models, and why this is a genius tactical chess move by CEO RJ Scaringe to save the upcoming, mass-market Rivian R2 from internal product cannibalization.

The battle for silver is heating up! While Tesla maintains its dominant grip on the #1 spot, fresh S&P Global Mobility registration data reveals an absolute dogfight for second place in the U.S. market. This week on The Friday Charge, we break down how Hyundai is breathing right down Chevrolet's neck—sitting less than 1,000 units away from claiming the title of America's second-most-popular EV brand.

We tackle the volume trends of the heavy-hitting Ioniq 5 versus the struggling Equinox EV transition, explore Hyundai’s tactical product line trimming (goodbye, standard Ioniq 6!), and look at the wildcards on the horizon—including a shocking 225% registration surge from Toyota. Grab your coffee and plug in; it's time for your quick weekend update!