Grid Connections

Summary

Chase sits down with Matt Teske, founder of  Chargeway,  to explore how Chargeway is revolutionizing the electric vehicle (EV) charging experience. Teske explains how Chargeway’s innovative app makes charging as simple as filling up with gas by using easy-to-understand colors and power levels. They dive deep into the challenges legacy automakers face with EV adoption, particularly in software and dealership education, and why many are struggling to keep up with Tesla's user-friendly charging ecosystem.

The episode also covers how real-time charging data from Chargeway helps EV owners make smarter decisions on the road and why Chargeway’s new "Plus" feature is set to elevate home and public charging for all users. Additionally, Teske shares insights on the future of vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology and how Chargeway is positioning itself to help dealerships and consumers transition smoothly to electric mobility. Finally, they preview the upcoming Electrify Expo in New York, where Chargeway will showcase its cutting-edge solutions for EV drivers. 

This episode is packed with practical advice for current EV owners, potential buyers, and industry professionals looking to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle space. 

Takeaways

1. Chargeway simplifies and enhances the EV charging experience with intuitive design and telematics integration.
2. Legacy automakers face challenges in adapting to electrification, highlighting a disconnect between leadership and engineering.
3. Dealers must embrace EVs more fully to improve sales and customer adoption.
4. Real-time charging data is crucial for improving the EV driver experience.
5. Electrify Expo serves as an important platform for learning and promoting electric mobility.
6. The future of vehicle-to-grid technology is promising and will play a key role in energy management.
7. The EV market is growing, but significant obstacles remain for wider adoption.

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Keywords

Chargeway, electric vehicles, EV charging, legacy automakers, vehicle-to-grid, clean energy, dealership experience, EV sales, Chargeway Plus, Electrify Expo

Summary
In this episode of the Grid Connections podcast, Chase and John McElroy of Autoline Network, dive into the shifting automotive landscape, with a spotlight on electrification and autonomous vehicles. They examine China’s growing dominance in the EV market, the role of tariffs, and the importance of automaker collaboration to remain competitive. The discussion covers key hurdles to EV adoption, such as public perception and underdeveloped charging infrastructure. Additionally, they explore how rising interest rates affect vehicle sales, the future of automotive manufacturing, and the critical need for regulatory reform to drive innovation and streamline industry efficiency.

Takeaways

1. The auto industry is rapidly shifting towards electrification and autonomous tech.
2. China’s dominance in the EV market pressures traditional automakers.
3. Tariffs offer short-term relief but aren't a sustainable solution for global competitiveness.
4. Automaker collaborations can drive cost efficiency and innovation.
5. Extended Range EVs (EREVs) are emerging as a practical alternative to full EVs.
6. Public skepticism of autonomous vehicles highlights the need for education and trust-building.
7. U.S. EV adoption is heavily shaped by political dynamics and policies.
8. EV charging infrastructure requires major upgrades to enable mass adoption.
9. Vehicle prices are rising, making affordability a key concern for buyers.
10. Regulatory reform is crucial for streamlining innovation and growth in the auto industry.

Watch the full episode of this podcast episode on Youtube

Looking to either buy a Tesla or even test drive one, use our referral code.

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Keywords
auto industry, electrification, autonomous vehicles, EV market, tariffs, collaboration, extended range EVs, public perception, regulation, charging infrastructure

Summary
In this episode, we speak with Janek Metzner and Julius Wilhelm, founders of the Electric Avenue newsletter, about their record-setting EV charging Cannonball Run in a Lucid Air. They share the challenges they faced with charging infrastructure, compare US and European charging experiences, and reveal their strategies for maximizing efficiency. Tune in to hear how this journey showcases the potential of EVs for long-distance travel and why improving charging networks is crucial for the future of electric vehicles.

Takeaways

1. EV Cannonball Run Highlights Long-Distance Potential of Electric Cars: Electric vehicles are capable of completing cross-country trips, proving their viability for long-distance travel.
2. Charging Infrastructure Reliability Remains a Key Challenge: Reliable charging networks are essential for a smooth EV experience, especially on long journeys.
3. Lucid Air Sets the Standard for EV Efficiency: The Lucid Air stands out as one of the most efficient electric vehicles available today.
4. Strategic Planning is Essential for EV Road Trips: Careful route planning and charging strategy are critical for a successful long-distance EV trip.
5. Multiple Chargers at Each Location Reduce Charging Delays: Charging stations with multiple chargers help prevent downtime and keep journeys on track.
6. High Temperatures Impact EV Charging Performance: Hot weather can slow charging and affect the reliability of charging stations.
7. EV Charging Experience Varies Widely Between U.S. and Europe: Charging in the U.S. poses different challenges compared to Europe, from payment methods to charger reliability.
8. Affordable EVs Needed for Widespread Adoption: Lower-cost electric vehicles are essential to make EVs accessible to a wider audience.
9. Efficiency Can Offset the Need for Bigger Batteries: Highly efficient EVs reduce the necessity for large battery packs, making them more practical.
10. Faster Charging and Better Infrastructure Are the Future of EVs: Increasing charging speeds and expanding infrastructure will be key to improving the EV experience.

Watch the full episode of this podcast episode on Youtube

Looking to either buy a Tesla or even test drive one, use our referral code.

Travel for work and looking for a card that rewards your travel needs? Earn 60,000 bonus points with either Chase Sapphire card. 

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Keywords
EV, electric vehicles, Cannonball Run, charging infrastructure, road trip, Lucid Air, efficiency, travel, sustainability, technology

Summary
In this episode of Grid Connections, Chase sits down with Brandon Watt from Switch Vehicles and Chuck Kauffman from WSU Tech to explore how they're bringing electric vehicle (EV) education to students. Through the SwitchLab EV kit—a hands-on curriculum with real-world applications—students gain valuable experience in EV mechanics, prepping them for the fast-growing EV industry. They dive into the certification process, future program expansions, and the importance of support from schools and the EV industry to ensure success. Tune in to learn how this innovative program is shaping the next generation of EV experts!

Takeaways

1. Switch Vehicles offers the SwitchLab EV kit, which includes a curriculum and lab kits for teaching EVs.
2. The program provides hands-on experience and prepares students for careers in the EV industry.
3. The Switch Vehicles program generates interest and excitement among students, leading to increased enrollment and retention. EV education programs are expanding, with certifications and master's programs being offered.
4. Safety measures and proper tools are taught and used in the program.
5. Admin support and industry backing are crucial for successful implementation of EV programs in schools.

Watch the full episode of this podcast episode on Youtube

Looking to either buy a Tesla or even test drive one, use our referral code.

Travel for work and looking for a card that rewards your travel needs? Earn 60,000 bonus points with either Chase Sapphire card. 

Looking to go off grid or just need a better internet setup? Try Starlink FREE for a month.

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Keywords
electric vehicles, EV education, Switch Vehicles, SwitchLab EV, curriculum, hands-on experience, EV mechanics, Armyman theory of electricity, EV certification, NC3 certification, EV education programs, ADOS lab kits, motorsports version, safety measures, admin support, industry backing

Summary
In the latest Grid Connections episode, Joseph Nagle, Head of Corporate Strategy at Pando Electric, discusses innovative outlet-based EV charging for multi-tenant facilities. These systems cut installation costs by 70% compared to traditional chargers. Nagle highlights the importance of equity, simplicity, and durability in multifamily EV charging. Pando is exploring grid stability, battery solutions, and V2G (vehicle-to-grid) technology, aiming to make EV charging more efficient and sustainable. The company envisions future buildings equipped with solar and batteries, boosting property value and providing predictable costs for EV drivers.

Takeaways

1. Pando Electric offers socket-based EV charging systems for multi-tenant facilities, focusing on the underserved market of apartments and condos.
2. The partnership between Pando Electric and Peninsula Clean Energy provides incentives for EV charging outlets, leading to a 70% cost reduction compared to traditional charging stations.
3. Outlet-based charging systems offer a more equitable and affordable solution for EV drivers in multifamily housing.
4. Pando Electric's outlets are designed for long-term durability, with a lifespan of 40 years and minimal maintenance requirements. Pando Electric is exploring grid stability solutions and power management for whole building energy loads.
5. They are interested in using batteries as a reservoir for EVs to pull energy from and balance out the grid load.
6. V2G (vehicle-to-grid) is a potential future initiative, but further development and standardization are needed.
7. Pando Electric sees a future where properties add solar panels and batteries to provide EV charging, increasing property value and providing a predictable cost for EV drivers.
8. Scaling EV charging infrastructure and educating people about charging habits are ongoing challenges.

Watch the full episode of this podcast episode on Youtube

Looking to either buy a Tesla or even test drive one, use our referral code.

Travel for work and looking for a card that rewards your travel needs? Earn 60,000 bonus points with either Chase Sapphire card. 

Looking to go off grid or just need a better internet setup? Try Starlink FREE for a month.

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Keywords
EV charging, Pando Electric, multi-tenant facilities, Peninsula Clean Energy, partnership, incentives, outlet-based charging, cost reduction, challenges, solutions, multifamily housing, equity, simplicity, durability, Pando Electric, grid stability, power management, whole building energy loads, batteries, EV charging, V2G, solar panels, property value, predictable cost, scaling infrastructure, education, mindset shift

Summary
In this episode, Tu Le, the founder of Sino Auto Insights, discusses China's impact on the global auto industry, particularly in the electric vehicle (EV) space. He highlights the rise of Chinese EV companies and the competitive landscape in China, where there are over 140 EV brands. Tu Le emphasizes the importance of value and price in the Chinese market. He also discusses the rapid iteration and innovation in the Chinese EV market, driven by the strong presence of software engineers. Additionally, Tu Le touches on the impact of tariffs and the need for foreign automakers to step up their game in order to compete in China. The conversation covered various topics including the challenges faced by German automakers in China, the quality of Chinese EVs, the preference for PHEVs in certain cities, the importance of charging infrastructure, the need for a seamless charging experience, the impact of tariffs on Chinese EVs in the US and Europe, and the overcapacity issue in China.

Takeaways

1. China is reshaping the global auto industry, particularly in the electric vehicle (EV) space.
2. There are over 140 EV brands in China, creating a highly competitive market.
3. Chinese EV companies iterate and innovate rapidly, driven by a strong presence of software engineers.
4. Foreign automakers need to step up their game to compete in China.
5. German automakers are facing challenges in China as ICE vehicles lose favor and their EVs struggle to resonate with consumers.
6. Chinese EVs are known for their high quality and have improved significantly over a short period of time.
7. PHEVs are preferred in cities with less mature charging infrastructure.
8. A seamless charging experience is crucial for the adoption of EVs.
9. Tariffs on Chinese EVs in the US and Europe have limited their entry into these markets.
10. There is an overcapacity issue in China, which may lead to Chinese automakers seeking opportunities in other regions.

Watch the full episode of this podcast episode on Youtube

Looking to either buy a Tesla or even test drive one, use our referral code.

Travel for work and looking for a card that rewards your travel needs? Earn 60,000 bonus points with either Chase Sapphire card. 

Looking to go off grid or just need a better internet setup? Try Starlink FREE for a month.

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Keywords
China, auto industry, electric vehicles, EVs, Chinese EV companies, competitive landscape, value, price, iteration, innovation, software engineers, tariffs, foreign automakers, McCann EV, Porsche sales, German automakers, Chinese EVs, PHEVs, charging infrastructure, seamless charging experience, tariffs, overcapacity

Summary
Steve Birkett from @plugandplayEV shares his experience of an 8,500 mile road trip in an electric vehicle (EV) across the US. Ranging from level 2 charging at over night stops to the different fast charging networks he used, including Electrify America, ChargePoint, and regional providers. We discuss the gaps in charging infrastructure in the middle of the country and the need for more fast chargers in those areas. Steve also highlights the impact of extreme heat on EV charging and the importance of planning for weather conditions during a road trip.We also discussed the need for more charging infrastructure near national parks and the benefits of level 2 charging in those areas. Overall, Steve's trip was uneventful and he highlighted the incremental improvements in the charging network. He shared some statistics from his trip, including the number of miles driven, charging sessions, and the cost of charging.

Upcoming Coast-to-Coast EVs Episode discussing EV Fast Charging Challenges.

Takeaways

1. Finding level 2 charging at hotels is more challenging than expected in summer of 2024, especially in the middle of the country.
2. Extreme heat can impact EV charging efficiency, especially when temperatures reach the mid-90s and above.
3. Dealership charging, such as Ford Charge, can be a convenient option for fast charging, with good site design and high-power stations. Dealerships are becoming more EV-friendly by providing multiple charging stalls and amenities.
4. Planning for weather conditions, including extreme heat, is important when embarking on a long road trip in an EV. 
5. Positive interactions with people at charging stations during road trips help dispel skepticism about EVs.
6. Charger vandalism is a problem impacting EV ownership in cities and especially in the Northwest of the US.
7. More charging infrastructure is needed near national parks, and level 2 charging can be beneficial in those areas.
8. Steve's road trip was overall uneventful, highlighting the incremental improvements in the charging network.

Watch the full episode of this podcast episode on Youtube

Looking to either buy a Tesla or even test drive one, use our referral code.

Travel for work and looking for a card that rewards your travel needs? Earn 60,000 bonus points with either Chase Sapphire card. 

Looking to go off grid or just need a better internet setup? Try Starlink FREE for a month.

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Summary
In today's episode, I’m sharing some updates on what’s in store for the podcast moving forward (and recent personal update: I am moving!). I’m looking to increase the number of episodes per week with more episodes involving different panels of guests. Along with exploring partnerships with other teams for more upcoming collaborations like last week's episode with Francie of the Out of Spec Podcast.

I’m also thrilled to announce that I’ll be attending the Electrify Expo in San Francisco later this month, and I’d love to meet some of you there!

I’m always looking for ways to improve the podcast, so I’d really appreciate your feedback and suggestions for future guests and topics. Reach out on Twitter or email me!

Plus, in this episode I shared my thoughts on a recent test drive of the Tesla Model 3 Performance and my search for a second car.

Watch the full episode of this podcast episode on Youtube

Looking to either buy a Tesla or even test drive one, use our referral code.

Travel for work and looking for a card that rewards your travel needs? Earn 60,000 bonus points with either Chase Sapphire card. 

Looking to go off grid or just need a better internet setup? Try Starlink FREE for a month.

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Summary:
Francie Saunders, host of the Out of Spec podcast, discusses her role at Out of Spec Studios and her passion for electric vehicles (EVs). The podcast covers topics like EV reviews, charging behavior, and expert interviews. Francie, with a background in natural sciences and teaching, aims to make EV content accessible. The conversation explores automakers' challenges, the need for a seamless charging experience, and more small EV options. They also discuss public transportation, hydrogen fuel cell technology for trucks, and Francie's experience leasing a Vinfast VF8. The conversation emphasizes the importance of firsthand EV experience for industry professionals and policymakers to understand the market's challenges and opportunities.

Takeaways:

1. It's take awhile but now automakers prioritize reliable EV infrastructure and its effect on EV sales.
2. Market needs more small EV options and diverse models.
3. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles many challenges, however hydrogen truck show more promise, but still face challenges compared to EV semis.
4. Leasing EVs can be a cost-effective ownership trial.
5. Understanding EVs is crucial for informed industry decisions. Executives and industry leaders should drive EVs to understand the full ownership experience.
6. Tesla's superior route planning and charging still set industry standards around reliability, usability and ease.
7. Tech forward features like dog mode are significant consumer selling points, especially with younger buyers.

Videos Referred to in this podcast:

1. Part 1 of my conversation with Francie on Out of Spec Podcast
2. Out of Spec Podcast: Thoughts on Toyota's EV Strategy
3. Out of Spec Podcast: Modernizing the Grid with Kevin Hernandez
4. Out of Spec Reviews: Challenges of Buying a Vinfast VF8
5. Out of Spec Motoring: Roadtripping the Vinfast VF8 from Tennessee to Colorado

Watch the full episode of this podcast episode on Youtube

Looking to either buy a Tesla or even test drive one, use our referral code.

Travel for work and looking for a card that rewards your travel needs? Earn 60,000 bonus points with either Chase Sapphire card. 

Looking to go off grid or just need a better internet setup? Try Starlink FREE for a month.

Want to be a guest on Grid Connections?

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Keywords
Out of Spec podcast, EVs, electric vehicles, EV infrastructure, charging behavior, expert interviews, automakers, charging experience, small EVs, public transportation, personal vehicles, hydrogen fuel cell, trucks, Vinfast VF8, EV leasing, Vinfast, driver assistance systems, electric vehicles, EVs, industry professionals, regulations, infrastructure, firsthand experience, senior executives, policymakers, Tesla, route planning, charging experience, dog mode

Summary
In this episode, the panel discusses the current state of the automotive industry and how EV Sales plays into it. The panel also examines the factors that contribute to EV sales, including the charging experience and the availability of charging infrastructure. Highlighting the importance of understanding the target demographics and the need for automakers to focus on software, infrastructure, and user experience to maintain momentum in the EV market. The guests discuss the shift in the charging industry, with major companies entering the market and the focus on providing a better charging experience for customers. The conversation in this part focuses on road trips and the charging experience for electric vehicles (EVs).Along with the need for better communication and marketing of EV charging options to the public.  Along with discussing the challenges and benefits of the NEVI corridor program in conjunction with the rollout of DC fast charging infrastructure.