Ep 19. Episode 19: EV State of Charge

Episode 19 of MotorWeek season 41 is titled "EV State of Charge." This episode delves into the world of electric vehicles and their associated charging infrastructure, examining the existing state of the technology and discussing future developments.

The episode starts with a review of the 2021 Volkswagen ID.4, a fully electric crossover SUV that boasts a range of up to 250 miles and a host of advanced features. The MotorWeek team takes the ID.4 for a test drive, exploring its handling, acceleration, and overall performance. They also discuss the vehicle's fast-charging capabilities, which allow it to recover up to 80% of its battery capacity in just 38 minutes.

From there, the episode pivots to a broader discussion of EV charging infrastructure. The MotorWeek team visits a charging station in Maryland, where they speak with industry experts about the state of the charging network and upcoming improvements. They also examine the various types of charging stations available, from Level 1 chargers that plug into a standard wall outlet to high-speed Level 3 DC fast chargers.

One of the major challenges facing the EV industry is "range anxiety" - the fear that a driver will run out of power and be stranded without a charging station nearby. To address this issue, manufacturers and charging companies are working to expand the network of charging stations and increase their power output. The MotorWeek team discusses the potential for ultra-fast charging, which could allow EVs to recharge in as little as five minutes.

Another key issue with EVs is the cost of ownership, which can be higher than traditional gas-powered vehicles due to the cost of batteries and charging infrastructure. The episode explores emerging business models for EV charging, including subscription services and billing based on the amount of time a vehicle is plugged in.

The MotorWeek team also examines the environmental impact of electric vehicles, comparing their carbon footprint to that of gas-powered cars. While EVs produce no emissions at the tailpipe, the production of their batteries and the generation of electricity for charging can still produce greenhouse gases. However, the team notes that EVs are becoming cleaner over time as more renewable energy sources are added to the grid.

The episode wraps up with a look at some of the latest developments in the EV market, including new models from major manufacturers such as Ford and General Motors. The team discusses the potential for EVs to transform the transportation sector and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Overall, "EV State of Charge" provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of the EV industry and what the future may hold for electric vehicles and their charging infrastructure.