Check out our first road trip attempt in the VW ID.Buzz here: ua-cam.com/video/Bbsduv0vezo/v-deo.html Thank you to O’Sullivan Law Firm and Scott O’Sullivan for sponsoring TFL's ID.Buzz adventures! If you, your friends or family have been in an accident anywhere in the U.S., call Scott first at (866) 956-2905, or visit (osullivan-law-firm.com/tfl )!
It’s not that the range is bad for the size battery etc, however it is a van. Vans are road trip vehicles and this battery is just way too small. It really needs to have a huge battery to go like 400+ miles range to make it really road trip worthy for a gas van replacement.
@@dmegahan The Kia EV9 has a short range, too, but at least it has that 800 volt design and some pretty rapid charging. This is just disappointing, but VW is not quite the king of EVs. Perhaps someone else can do this form factor justice.
Lol what? 300 miles in the US where you cannot go fast? At 70 mph that would be 4,2h of non stop driving. That is brutal. My bladder could not do that. When I go on vacation I stop roughly every 2,5 for bathroom breaks and to strech my legs. When a short break every couple of hours on a trip you take twice a year is a problem for you then you truly have no problems is life.
Rivian R1S owner here. My road trip last month would have been bad if not for the fact I can use Tesla Superchargers. Every EA Charger I went to was backed up with lines for charging space. Ford, Rivian, and now GM can use Tesla Superchargers and these are the only brands I would consider.
Because NACS was a proposal, not a standard. The actual standard is SAE J3400, which is based on CCS, so the automakers are effectively already using "NACS." The disconnect for a lot of folk is that having J3400 does not automatically mean you have access to the Supercharger Network, which is currently the only network that is primarily offering J3400 plugs. If you're in an EV that does have Supercharger access, you're just as well off having a J3400 to CCS1 adapter.
@@shanevancI’m not an Elon fan, but it must be noted that the interface standard on Teslas is open - anyone can implement the tech. EA and EVGO can provide chargers with NACS connectors, just like they provide CHADMO on many chargers.
This was definitely more fun of a video than the normal buzzkills that typically host the videos. Even as bonus you got to see them nice goats and a castle.
I'm pretty old and still remember gas stations being much fewer and farther between, and remember waiting in long lines, most of the day, in the early '70's, to fill up gas, and remember gas stations were all pretty tiny, with no convenient stores. EV stations will get better and far more of them, in the very near future.
Absolutely. In Norway we have a well developed charging infrastructure and there is hardly a gas station or a parking garage/lot without charging options. I street park my EV in downtown Oslo and there are plenty of dedicated parking for EVs where the city has put up over night charging posts just like the old parking meters we used to have. And also, they all work. So charging is easy. Over here destination charging is becoming a thing, you don't go to a gas or charging station to fill up, you just charge your car at the park if you are going for a walk or at the supermarket while you shop etc. And you only need that if you haven't charged at home. Our infrastructure sucked too five years ago, but once there are more and more EVs, there will be a rush to build EV chargers. Gas stations owners suddenly realize they are losing customers who have switched to EVs and EV customers are the perfect customer, they go in an spend money in the store too and that is where the money is to be made.
to be fair, in most fuel stations where i live, the worst thing they ever did was introduce 'convenience stores' into fuel stations. 10 mins getting fuel, then 20 mins blocking the pump whilst ypu go into the 'shop' to pay for the fuel, buy a heap of groceries, etc. just pay for the fuel and head to a proper shop for crying out loud! fuel stations here STILL arent huge. maybe a dozen pumps MAX in most.
Strike 2, 3, and 4 are at the same charging station, really is just 1 strike. I don't know why strike 5 is a strike, or 6. Essentially, they went to one station and it was full. They just went to another and were able to plug in after what seemed like a short wait. That's the only real issue. The vehicle could definitely use more range, but they only spent like...35 minutes at each station. Not unusually long. Still, not especially great road tripper, Kia EV9 would be better. This is better for local or summer trips. Definitely not the "disaster" Roman created
These EV manufacturers should put a certain amount of money each year toward building more charging stations. It doesn't matter how fast an electric vehicle accelerates or how good the range is if you can't find a working charger or you have to wait for a charging station to become available.
If there was profit to be made in public charging stations, VW wouldn’t have abandoned EA. Without profit, mfg’s will not invest in them. Tesla went decades without making a profit when establishing it’s proprietary network, and no mfg will play the long game as execs make money off short term gains and have golden parachutes if things go bad long term.
The supercharger infrastructure as quite good. But even with a Tesla, you have to wait for an available supercharger here in Vancouver a lot of times. This is due to the high EV adoption rate in greater Vancouver and lots of Tesla owners don't have home charging possibilities I guess. Otherwise, I cannot explain, why most of the time I see long lineups at London Drugs North Van, which has a couple of Tesla Superchargers. We definitely need a better charging infrastructure for all EV drivers.
@cmdrstevemcmaru7417 From my perspective, I don't see the point of buying an electric vehicle that will be more expensive and more difficult/inconvenient to refuel/charge than an internal combustion vehicle. Jason on Engineering Explained had a great saying that technology should make your life easier (be more convenient to use) or people won't use it. I don't like waiting in line at a gas station, so I'm not going to wait 30 minutes for an available charger and then another 20-30 minutes for my vehicle to charge. Instead of governments trying to outlaw the internal combustion engine, governments and car manufacturers should put money into a program for building more charging stations every year. If charging an electric vehicle was easy and problem free, then more people would buy electric vehicles.
This van was developed years ago. It’s available in Europe for years. At the time of development the range was mediocre but not a deal breaker. Now, without updating the battery, the range is a show stopper.
Europe = short distance North America= long distances Good video with the exception the goal besides entertaining is to suck up to VW so you don't get banded.
@lalu…. Nice try. In your question, why don’t you go down in travel time to 15 minutes in town driving? The range is a show stopper for road tripping in general and definitely for long distance, the supposed purpose of this vehicle.
@@lalutte65 when it takes 30+ minutes to charge every 2 hours? yes, that sux. 30 min is OK for a lunch break but no one wants to be at a WalMart especially for 30 min every 2 hrs.
I don’t let my gas tank drop below 1/4 tank before looking for a station for this reason; I will never sit in line for a pump or charger. At least with ICE, there is rarely more than 10 miles between stations and rarely will every station within 50 miles have a line for gas.
It seems like not relying on ea is important. Ev go has good chargers. Not ideal but strategy is important. Also the roof rack keeping on is only worsening fuel economy.
Cool VW Bus 🤙 On paper a model Y lease for $299 a month( $2999 down) makes more sense, but this seems like it would be fun, I’d like to see an ID bug or golf available. ID4 missed the boat styling wise for me. ID3 is better but not available in US.
I think I’d be ok with charging queues if I was having as much fun as you two! The availability of Tesla superchargers is a game changer and will make a huge difference with this vehicle. I drove 900 miles on the Saturday after thanksgiving and stations were busy but there were plenty of SuperChargers available and typically within a few miles of my planned stops.
Nice and fun video, next time should be longer. 😃 Is ID Buzz preconditioning the battery before arrival automatically or it needs to set it on in the menu? Range could be more than enough IF...IF... every charging station work every 150+ miles. Another point is: arrival SOC should be low enough and safe, like 6-8% to get an appropriate charge curve to charge quick. Just saying...
As Somebody who used to raise dairy goats for 4H the way I transported mine to the fair was in the back of our van..... Tarp recommended they are usually good in the van.
the id Van is really awesome style, luxury and ride……..BUT the range anxiety is not at all for me….just shows the charging infrastructure is nowhere near competitive with gasoline or diesel vehicles. Did you have cabin heat on all the time, headwind-tailwind or other direction? Is a hybrid version available? I have a Ford Maverick hybrid pickup with a 500 mile range and 45 real mpg for road-trips. Did you calculate your total electric cost compared to your total miles driven?
Loved seeing the two of them doing this review. It is a *MUCH NEEDED* change to this channel. I hope they have more videos in the future. IDK what's up with the audio though. It sounds muffled or like there's something wrong with it, it's just flat sounding.
I love how this was going great until they had to charge at Electrify America. And then they understood what roman already knew. Also Red Trees --> California...How? Redwoods?
Longtime TFL fan and this is one of the best! Great job on the edit, absolutely top notch! Also loved the younger female talent, it’s videos like this that will get lots of ladies interested in cars again!
In the previous video, Roman left the van in Chicago. My question is, how did you get it to Boulder? Where is that video? Never have any charging problems in my Tesla. Supercharging works perfectly 100% of the time.
I drove it back from Chicago. Used the EA app to map out stops ('cause it was free), which seamlessly uploads to Google Maps and onto the VW's screen via CarPlay. It took a while, but it was super easy. Basically drive for 90 minutes, charge for 20-30, repeat. Preconditioning the battery helped a lot when it was below 35F. Had to do that manually. Thanks to its weight, long wheel base, big windows and upright seating position, the Buzz is one of the best road trippers I've ever driven. And cause I'm middle-aged, I don't mind all the stops.
@@grantdavis6011 that's cool. I really like that my Tesla MY maps every charging stop for me and preconditions the car for fast charging without me having to do anything. I'm glad you had a good experience.
All I want is an ID Buzz (I REALLY like the Buzz) with 600 mile range normally, it can tow a caravan and get 400 mile range. For an EV it's not possible, but my 2008 VW T5 Caravalle does that anytime I want it to.
This was not a road trip. For those of us in rural America, this was a biweekly trip to Costco and tractor supply. Having to recharge twice for that trip is ridiculous! it added nearly 2 hours to a 5 hour trip. No thanks, our Sienna & Camry hybrids will have to do until someone makes an EV with reasonable range. Not being able to use Tesla superchargers isn't the only problem, and not the biggest one either. A tiny battery and slow in-car chargers are the big ones. And Roman's problems are all to common.
What a fun roadtrip video! You two have great chemistry, feels like you're old friends! The castle looked kind of crazy and very impressive, seems well worth a visit.
I have found that I need multiple apps to find all the chargers, I will try to find one far off the main highways so it's less busy. This works well most of the time.
If I was planning to go to an Electrify America station, I would look at their app because it shows how many plugs are in use. They can’t show how many cars are waiting because they aren’t a manufacturer like Tesla that knows where all their cars are all the time, but if I see all the plugs are in use, I would look for alternatives in the area. The VW range estimator is based on the efficiency at the moment based on the previous 30 miles of driving. If you are getting 4.2 miles per kWh and go over a mountain pass and the temperature drops 50 degrees, your mileage will vary. I can get 4.2m/kWh going 50-60mph and then speed up to 75mph and the efficiency drops to 3.4m/kWh along with the range estimate
The vehicle is very well designed and great looking. The range 100% destroys it for me. That range may work in Europe but is way too low for US market. The battery is WAY to small.
Not that it makes a huge impact on the Buzz's not-great range, but why keep the optional roof bars on there? Put 'em away until you need to throw on the roof box or whatever.
dude, it's WILD on the US Buzz Facespace group.. people are obsessed with adding crap to them that will do nothing but hurt the range even more. running boards.. roof boxes.. the rails.. WTF? one of the biggest reasons to get a minivan instead of a big dumb SUV is not not need all that crap!
My thing about waiting for charger at public charging place can probably be tricky. I guess you just have to be considerate and aware because how does anyone really know who gets the next open charger?? Maybe there needs to be parking spots like in a row that's numbered or something...
Thanks making the video! It's always nice to see the girls do their own thing too. I didn't finish Roman's video yet. 😅 I did however noticed a couple of things when it came to your charging. You went to charge for the first time too soon. Why not just go to the 2nd charger spot to begin with since you still had the range to do so? Was it be because you didn't know about it? This is why apps like ABRP are needed on road trips. Also you could've used the EA app to plan things out better as well. Also only charge to 80% if possible especially if there is a line. I noticed that you guys charged to 88% or over on the way home only to get there with 40% or so. Imo you should only charge enough to get home with 10% instead. You could then charge to 80% overnight at a much cheaper rate. I would avoid DCFCing as much as possible even if it's free. I got an EV in the first place to not go out to charge when I'm at home so.
It definitely needs a bigger battery, like the ones the cars here in China have, 144kWh and 150kWh. With 3000 battery swapping stations, you can get a fully charged 150kWh battery in 3 minutes.
Very enjoyable. Love the look of the Buzz but the EV charging range anxiety is still putting me off a purchase (I would only consider lease only, EV depreciation is still too bad for a purchase)
One of Roman's biggest issues was charging infrastructure not working that is one of the biggest issues currently and not just in the US and as you've found as well. Let's hope some different charging hardware will rectify this problem and also when VW gets access to the Supercharger network which I think is awhile off yet since they were one of the last brands to announce it.
Where I am, the chargers are few and far between. I could only imagine if one was completely out. You'd be stuck out in the middle of nowhere., but at least you'd probably have cell service at the stations. I guess you could always get a tow.
13:33 I am sorry, but you have to correct your seatbelt position. it wont stop you in case of crash. it's way too low!! not to mention anything after 20min ;)
You should do an EV cargo van test, Mercedes, Dodge, Ford E-Transit & Chevy Brightdrop. Buy or pickup a sofa and budget living room kit, coffee table, games machine, TV and shower toilet, drive out for a quick and simple trip to some level 2 chargers and do a camping weekend trip. Say a $1,000 budget for a weekend camping trip. Fish for dinner and see which van is the best for a weekend get away. Driving test, range test, charging test, parking, fishing and cooking. Then spend the night. Shower in the morning and toilet solution (5 gallon tub with liner bags).
Great Video, I love the design of the Buzz, but as with any other EV there is still way too much Range Anxiety. Until the Charger Infrastructure catches up I wouldn't consider an EV if I would be taking Road Trips. I would however look at Hybrids.
I'd change that slightly to 'CCS charging' has become worse in 2024. Tesla supercharger network still very reliable and plentiful. I've never had to wait to charge, no crazy apps or swiping cards and hoping things work. I just plug in my Model Y and it starts charging in seconds. Even more simple than using a gas pump.
The only sense in which this could be true is that there are more vehicles on the road competing for charging. Because objectively there are more DCFCs installed now than ever. Reliability? Always been bad, not any worse now.
@@mowcowbell although I've heard from some Tesla owners that Tesla charging has gotten worse for them, only because the charger network has opened up... so they've had to wait due to blocked chargers from non Teslas charging, or stations being a lot more occupied than they had been in the past.
lol, I like the girls making appearances. My wife likes watching these moms review cars videos. It blows my mind. She’s not a “car person”, but she’s loves the girls perspective.
I enjoyed the video, the presenters obviously have great on-camera personalities, but at the end of it, I'm not sure I have a good sense of how much time was spent charging and/or looking for charging during the course of this road trip. How many miles traveled? Also where was this road trip? A loop in Colorado? How did the car get from O'hare airport in Rosemont, IL to Colorado? The goats are adorable. I love goats. More goats please. BUT I guess I ALSO feel like EVERY "EV roadtrip" video should have a nice summary at the end with how many miles traveled, how many times you stopped for charging, how much time you spent charging.
So what I said on the last Buzz video still stands. Great around town vehicle, but the lack of range really puts the inherent weaknesses of EVs front and center. Needs a gas range extender. Also, side note, the videography style with the girls is pretty fun compared to the guys. All business when Roman and the others are out but with Jen and Mary, it seemed a lot more like just two friends documenting their road trip. I like both styles and would like to see it mixed up a bit more like this in the future.
Funny thing is, in Tennessee, there are banks of EV chargers that go unused. You seldom ever see anyone charging. Tesla Superchargers often have a few cars, but never enough to take up every charger.
I’m interested to see how many of these actually sell, I also can’t imagine the feeling of getting to a charging station and the having to wait in line to wait….seems like an huge waste of time
Mary and Jen, you put on a great video! I love this one. You all have such a good dynamic, snappy presentation, sharp skills and great editing to boot. Well done, ladies. I'm impressed!
I want one of these but no way I’m paying that price. I think the depreciation will be epic imagine picking up one soon for 20K. Just look at the values of the ID4.
Looking good. I do so wish to nail this trip too. I'd certainly get a pair of driving gloves and night driving lenses and do it at nighttime. I come alive at night when everything is more peaceful with less congestion - better! Mr. Diamond was spot on. . Daytime turns me off, and I don't mean maybe Nine-to-five ain't takin' me where I'm bound When it's done, I run out to see my baby We get groovin' when the sun goes down I thank the Lord for the night time To forget the day A day of up-uptight time Baby, chase it away I get relaxation It's a time to groove I thank the Lord for the night time I thank the Lord for you ✌️👶🚬
I think it's interesting that the redemption video had exactly the same infrastructure issues as the first one, just with a smile lol My Mach E can be similarly frustrating on a long trip
I do like the dynamic between these two when they're reviewing together. TFL has made false steps before with bringing on new people, but IMO, this is working out good. Maybe they can try to revive the buddy review concept?
The female viewpoint(s) adds a valuable component to reviews of cars normal people might actually acquire for regular use. The interests of our wives and in many cases daughters have a significant impact on the cars we get and use. (And I loved the goats. Our son and daughter-in-law raise sheep because the sheep are not as assertive as goats are.
Really love this vehicle. Wish they could have put a ton of power and a bigger battery. Almost there. Unfortunately it will take them another 10 years to get it right and they will be out of biz in less than 3!
As a Viewer since day 1, Jenn& Mary are the goat’s of the TFL Team, an upgrade from Tommy& Case. Happy Holidays to you both, Great Job & a cool vehicle by vw, it’s about time they made something this cool! Evan , From Rockland County, NY!
The Celebrations 🎉🤗🙏people do when they start Charging indicates public Charging Is completely messed up🤔😔 11:23 I mean who Celebrates when they Succeed Plugging a Fuel Nozel 🤷🤨
You make a fair point. But really, being able to drive a car without feeding the oil cartels and without gassing out the neighborhood, is cause for celebration.
Check out our first road trip attempt in the VW ID.Buzz here: ua-cam.com/video/Bbsduv0vezo/v-deo.html
Thank you to O’Sullivan Law Firm and Scott O’Sullivan for sponsoring TFL's ID.Buzz adventures! If you, your friends or family have been in an accident anywhere in the U.S., call Scott first at (866) 956-2905, or visit (osullivan-law-firm.com/tfl )!
Your ladies normally sit on dirty floors?? Hate it when young women act like they are 5.
What I learned from this is that we need goats at all charging stations. Passes the time and make you feel good.
That and all goat locations need charging stations.
Mary and Jen are a breath of fresh air for the channel
coming here to say the same thing
Fast agree.
Agreed
@@J.W.W. first thing I thought when I started this video. I haven’t seen them before, personally
Really not feeling it.
That range is abysmal for a road tripper especially in 2024. It should have come with a 300 miles range. No bueno for 70k sticker.
I checked my local VW dealer, they have two at $72k, so even if it supposedly starts at $60k those don't exist.
It’s not that the range is bad for the size battery etc, however it is a van. Vans are road trip vehicles and this battery is just way too small. It really needs to have a huge battery to go like 400+ miles range to make it really road trip worthy for a gas van replacement.
@@dmegahan The Kia EV9 has a short range, too, but at least it has that 800 volt design and some pretty rapid charging. This is just disappointing, but VW is not quite the king of EVs. Perhaps someone else can do this form factor justice.
And once again we see that the charging infrastructure is not up to par.
Lol what? 300 miles in the US where you cannot go fast? At 70 mph that would be 4,2h of non stop driving. That is brutal. My bladder could not do that.
When I go on vacation I stop roughly every 2,5 for bathroom breaks and to strech my legs.
When a short break every couple of hours on a trip you take twice a year is a problem for you then you truly have no problems is life.
Rivian R1S owner here. My road trip last month would have been bad if not for the fact I can use Tesla Superchargers. Every EA Charger I went to was backed up with lines for charging space. Ford, Rivian, and now GM can use Tesla Superchargers and these are the only brands I would consider.
And Volvo/polestar too, they recently got access
Hyundai/Kia will have access 1st quarter 2025.
@@TAWithiamjust saw a Volvo on a charger last night😊
I don't know where you found these two, but they are great! More videos with them please.
We will!
Who are they, mate?
@@TFLEV is indeed better than the hair touching and the 'like' heard in their freshman effort, just another Romanesc channel enhancement!
Seconded. Great chemistry and a breath of fresh air on this family of channels.
I am way too cynical...
The range kills the whole purpose of this vehicle.
I think that s not the car. It s american current charging infrastructure.
@jonpetter8921 non Tesla charging absolutely sucks. But the size of the battery on this van is puzzling.
Combined with mediocre charging speeds.
Yeah. Can’t imagine trading my Odyssey for this. If I lived in Europe maybe
This is meant for Europe in it's current iteration with that very small battery. Not large countries like the US, Canada, Australia, etc.
Can’t believe how all these EV manufacturers are dragging their feet adopting NACS.
NACS adoption is especially important for short range vehicles like this Buzz.
Maybe they don't want to be owned by Elon 😢
@@shanevanc We will see how successful will be iONNA. If it proves can stay outside Elon Musk network then everyone will take notice.
Because NACS was a proposal, not a standard. The actual standard is SAE J3400, which is based on CCS, so the automakers are effectively already using "NACS." The disconnect for a lot of folk is that having J3400 does not automatically mean you have access to the Supercharger Network, which is currently the only network that is primarily offering J3400 plugs. If you're in an EV that does have Supercharger access, you're just as well off having a J3400 to CCS1 adapter.
@@shanevancI’m not an Elon fan, but it must be noted that the interface standard on Teslas is open - anyone can implement the tech. EA and EVGO can provide chargers with NACS connectors, just like they provide CHADMO on many chargers.
This was definitely more fun of a video than the normal buzzkills that typically host the videos. Even as bonus you got to see them nice goats and a castle.
Glad you enjoyed it!
I'm pretty old and still remember gas stations being much fewer and farther between, and remember waiting in long lines, most of the day, in the early '70's, to fill up gas, and remember gas stations were all pretty tiny, with no convenient stores. EV stations will get better and far more of them, in the very near future.
Thanks for this reminder.
Absolutely. In Norway we have a well developed charging infrastructure and there is hardly a gas station or a parking garage/lot without charging options. I street park my EV in downtown Oslo and there are plenty of dedicated parking for EVs where the city has put up over night charging posts just like the old parking meters we used to have. And also, they all work. So charging is easy. Over here destination charging is becoming a thing, you don't go to a gas or charging station to fill up, you just charge your car at the park if you are going for a walk or at the supermarket while you shop etc. And you only need that if you haven't charged at home. Our infrastructure sucked too five years ago, but once there are more and more EVs, there will be a rush to build EV chargers. Gas stations owners suddenly realize they are losing customers who have switched to EVs and EV customers are the perfect customer, they go in an spend money in the store too and that is where the money is to be made.
I’m old enough to remember when we could only get gas on even or odd days. EV charging at home is a whole lot nicer
to be fair, in most fuel stations where i live, the worst thing they ever did was introduce 'convenience stores' into fuel stations. 10 mins getting fuel, then 20 mins blocking the pump whilst ypu go into the 'shop' to pay for the fuel, buy a heap of groceries, etc. just pay for the fuel and head to a proper shop for crying out loud! fuel stations here STILL arent huge. maybe a dozen pumps MAX in most.
Es braucht Zeit um dieses auf zu bauen .
Strike one: 7:58
Strike two: 8:31 and mind you, this is after 113 miles of driving.
Strike three: 9:08
Strike four: 9:23
Strike five: second charge location. 12:03
Strike six: 12:29
Strike seven: 17:14
Strike eight : 17:38
Strike nine: 19:00
Strike ten: $72K plus tax
Strike 11: Dealer Markup
Strike 2, 3, and 4 are at the same charging station, really is just 1 strike. I don't know why strike 5 is a strike, or 6.
Essentially, they went to one station and it was full. They just went to another and were able to plug in after what seemed like a short wait. That's the only real issue. The vehicle could definitely use more range, but they only spent like...35 minutes at each station. Not unusually long.
Still, not especially great road tripper, Kia EV9 would be better. This is better for local or summer trips. Definitely not the "disaster" Roman created
That’s a real life charging situation for anyone not driving a Tesla. It’s the one thing stopping me from switching to any other manufacturer.
These EV manufacturers should put a certain amount of money each year toward building more charging stations. It doesn't matter how fast an electric vehicle accelerates or how good the range is if you can't find a working charger or you have to wait for a charging station to become available.
Just stay with Tesla.
If there was profit to be made in public charging stations, VW wouldn’t have abandoned EA. Without profit, mfg’s will not invest in them.
Tesla went decades without making a profit when establishing it’s proprietary network, and no mfg will play the long game as execs make money off short term gains and have golden parachutes if things go bad long term.
The supercharger infrastructure as quite good. But even with a Tesla, you have to wait for an available supercharger here in Vancouver a lot of times. This is due to the high EV adoption rate in greater Vancouver and lots of Tesla owners don't have home charging possibilities I guess. Otherwise, I cannot explain, why most of the time I see long lineups at London Drugs North Van, which has a couple of Tesla Superchargers. We definitely need a better charging infrastructure for all EV drivers.
@cmdrstevemcmaru7417 From my perspective, I don't see the point of buying an electric vehicle that will be more expensive and more difficult/inconvenient to refuel/charge than an internal combustion vehicle. Jason on Engineering Explained had a great saying that technology should make your life easier (be more convenient to use) or people won't use it. I don't like waiting in line at a gas station, so I'm not going to wait 30 minutes for an available charger and then another 20-30 minutes for my vehicle to charge. Instead of governments trying to outlaw the internal combustion engine, governments and car manufacturers should put money into a program for building more charging stations every year. If charging an electric vehicle was easy and problem free, then more people would buy electric vehicles.
no go, $70k, not even 300 range, VW will loose their ass on this one
I don't think they are worried about their ass being loose😂
@@Wised1000 🤣
@@Wised1000 You caught a typo!!! ROTFL!!!!! Funniest reply on YT in the history of replies on YT!!!!!
It can be a loss leader and they won't care. It's those sweet EV credits VW/Audi group is after.
A hybrid version would sell.
9:50 So what is the protocol for queueing at a charging station? Do you park in order of arrival and keep shifting as people process through?
It's amazing the difference when you start with a fully charged battery. Getting off on the wrong foot is about the worst way to start a road trip.
Way better outcome than Roman had. Mental note: keep pretzels in glovebox.
Who are the new employess? Video introducing them?
These ladies have an energy that would make any road trip enjoyable and super fun! And full of ideas to keep the trips interesting!
Good video. It's nice to see some new faces and new angles of car reviews. What's the mi/kwh for your trip if you don't mind?
This van was developed years ago. It’s available in Europe for years. At the time of development the range was mediocre but not a deal breaker. Now, without updating the battery, the range is a show stopper.
2 hours of interstate driving is a show stopper?
Europe = short distance
North America= long distances
Good video with the exception the goal besides entertaining is to suck up to VW so you don't get banded.
Show stopper 😂😂😂 u must be a dealer
@lalu…. Nice try. In your question, why don’t you go down in travel time to 15 minutes in town driving? The range is a show stopper for road tripping in general and definitely for long distance, the supposed purpose of this vehicle.
@@lalutte65 when it takes 30+ minutes to charge every 2 hours? yes, that sux. 30 min is OK for a lunch break but no one wants to be at a WalMart especially for 30 min every 2 hrs.
I don’t let my gas tank drop below 1/4 tank before looking for a station for this reason; I will never sit in line for a pump or charger. At least with ICE, there is rarely more than 10 miles between stations and rarely will every station within 50 miles have a line for gas.
It seems like not relying on ea is important. Ev go has good chargers. Not ideal but strategy is important. Also the roof rack keeping on is only worsening fuel economy.
I'm glad they were able to get an alternate charger. With my Tesla I've learned to just not go places without a supercharger.
Cool VW Bus 🤙 On paper a model Y lease for $299 a month( $2999 down) makes more sense, but this seems like it would be fun, I’d like to see an ID bug or golf available. ID4 missed the boat styling wise for me. ID3 is better but not available in US.
it's pretty sweet when all goes well with the high speed charging infra. it will only get better.
I think I’d be ok with charging queues if I was having as much fun as you two!
The availability of Tesla superchargers is a game changer and will make a huge difference with this vehicle. I drove 900 miles on the Saturday after thanksgiving and stations were busy but there were plenty of SuperChargers available and typically within a few miles of my planned stops.
OK,who are these ladies? More please., they are natural at this and very pleasant to watch. A great addition to the channel!
Nice and fun video, next time should be longer. 😃
Is ID Buzz preconditioning the battery before arrival automatically or it needs to set it on in the menu?
Range could be more than enough IF...IF... every charging station work every 150+ miles.
Another point is: arrival SOC should be low enough and safe, like 6-8% to get an appropriate charge curve to charge quick. Just saying...
You kinda gotta take the goats home. That's a clip I wanna see. Romans reaction when you show him the two goats in the back of the buzz.
😂😂😂😂 yes!
I’d watch that video 😂😂😂
Back in the Buzz? No! Back in his office. 😃
Lmao
As Somebody who used to raise dairy goats for 4H the way I transported mine to the fair was in the back of our van..... Tarp recommended they are usually good in the van.
I love this van…. Hopefully, one day when I retire I will be able to road trip one.
What is with the number of charges out of service? And it is time that one standard be adopted for all chargers.
Fun, quirky video. I love Mary and Jen. Never buying this vehicle 😂 but always great to see what's out there
the id Van is really awesome style, luxury and ride……..BUT the range anxiety is not at all for me….just shows the charging infrastructure is nowhere near competitive with gasoline or diesel vehicles. Did you have cabin heat on all the time, headwind-tailwind or other direction? Is a hybrid version available? I have a Ford Maverick hybrid pickup with a 500 mile range and 45 real mpg for road-trips. Did you calculate your total electric cost compared to your total miles driven?
Loved seeing the two of them doing this review. It is a *MUCH NEEDED* change to this channel. I hope they have more videos in the future. IDK what's up with the audio though. It sounds muffled or like there's something wrong with it, it's just flat sounding.
How’s the cup holder situation in there? From what I’ve seen from another review of the Buzz, it’s lacking quite a bit.
I love how this was going great until they had to charge at Electrify America. And then they understood what roman already knew. Also Red Trees --> California...How? Redwoods?
So on the way back you made it from the springs to Boulder in about 40%? I was confused if you stopped again between
Longtime TFL fan and this is one of the best! Great job on the edit, absolutely top notch! Also loved the younger female talent, it’s videos like this that will get lots of ladies interested in cars again!
In the previous video, Roman left the van in Chicago. My question is, how did you get it to Boulder? Where is that video?
Never have any charging problems in my Tesla. Supercharging works perfectly 100% of the time.
He said someone else would drive it the rest of the way
@@claytonbyrd6134 I wonder what that person's experience was. Enquiring minds want to know!
I drove it back from Chicago. Used the EA app to map out stops ('cause it was free), which seamlessly uploads to Google Maps and onto the VW's screen via CarPlay. It took a while, but it was super easy. Basically drive for 90 minutes, charge for 20-30, repeat. Preconditioning the battery helped a lot when it was below 35F. Had to do that manually. Thanks to its weight, long wheel base, big windows and upright seating position, the Buzz is one of the best road trippers I've ever driven. And cause I'm middle-aged, I don't mind all the stops.
@@grantdavis6011 that's cool. I really like that my Tesla MY maps every charging stop for me and preconditions the car for fast charging without me having to do anything. I'm glad you had a good experience.
All I want is an ID Buzz (I REALLY like the Buzz) with 600 mile range normally, it can tow a caravan and get 400 mile range.
For an EV it's not possible, but my 2008 VW T5 Caravalle does that anytime I want it to.
charging issue... I usually open the relevant app to check whether a charger is available/ out of order prior to enter the charging station.
This was not a road trip. For those of us in rural America, this was a biweekly trip to Costco and tractor supply. Having to recharge twice for that trip is ridiculous! it added nearly 2 hours to a 5 hour trip. No thanks, our Sienna & Camry hybrids will have to do until someone makes an EV with reasonable range. Not being able to use Tesla superchargers isn't the only problem, and not the biggest one either. A tiny battery and slow in-car chargers are the big ones. And Roman's problems are all to common.
What a fun roadtrip video! You two have great chemistry, feels like you're old friends! The castle looked kind of crazy and very impressive, seems well worth a visit.
I have found that I need multiple apps to find all the chargers, I will try to find one far off the main highways so it's less busy. This works well most of the time.
If I was planning to go to an Electrify America station, I would look at their app because it shows how many plugs are in use. They can’t show how many cars are waiting because they aren’t a manufacturer like Tesla that knows where all their cars are all the time, but if I see all the plugs are in use, I would look for alternatives in the area.
The VW range estimator is based on the efficiency at the moment based on the previous 30 miles of driving. If you are getting 4.2 miles per kWh and go over a mountain pass and the temperature drops 50 degrees, your mileage will vary. I can get 4.2m/kWh going 50-60mph and then speed up to 75mph and the efficiency drops to 3.4m/kWh along with the range estimate
The vehicle is very well designed and great looking. The range 100% destroys it for me. That range may work in Europe but is way too low for US market. The battery is WAY to small.
Not that it makes a huge impact on the Buzz's not-great range, but why keep the optional roof bars on there? Put 'em away until you need to throw on the roof box or whatever.
dude, it's WILD on the US Buzz Facespace group.. people are obsessed with adding crap to them that will do nothing but hurt the range even more. running boards.. roof boxes.. the rails.. WTF? one of the biggest reasons to get a minivan instead of a big dumb SUV is not not need all that crap!
My thing about waiting for charger at public charging place can probably be tricky. I guess you just have to be considerate and aware because how does anyone really know who gets the next open charger?? Maybe there needs to be parking spots like in a row that's numbered or something...
Thanks making the video! It's always nice to see the girls do their own thing too. I didn't finish Roman's video yet. 😅
I did however noticed a couple of things when it came to your charging. You went to charge for the first time too soon. Why not just go to the 2nd charger spot to begin with since you still had the range to do so? Was it be because you didn't know about it? This is why apps like ABRP are needed on road trips. Also you could've used the EA app to plan things out better as well. Also only charge to 80% if possible especially if there is a line. I noticed that you guys charged to 88% or over on the way home only to get there with 40% or so. Imo you should only charge enough to get home with 10% instead. You could then charge to 80% overnight at a much cheaper rate. I would avoid DCFCing as much as possible even if it's free. I got an EV in the first place to not go out to charge when I'm at home so.
It definitely needs a bigger battery, like the ones the cars here in China have, 144kWh and 150kWh. With 3000 battery swapping stations, you can get a fully charged 150kWh battery in 3 minutes.
Fully redeemed. I actually have an ‘old’ 5 seat Buzz with the even smaller battery (I’m in a much smaller country too). Great vid. More please!
If you’ll check the EA app it will tell you which chargers are available and working.
This should’ve been a hybrid and cost around 45k starting imo - a big part of the charm of the og vw bus was the engine noises
Great work, ladies. Refreshing change of pace 👏
THIS VIDEO IS INCREDIBLE!!!
GOAT?!?!?!? 🐐
What a great way to start the day
Very enjoyable. Love the look of the Buzz but the EV charging range anxiety is still putting me off a purchase (I would only consider lease only, EV depreciation is still too bad for a purchase)
Major fail, dang. In most ways it’s the anti Microbus. What a shame
One of Roman's biggest issues was charging infrastructure not working that is one of the biggest issues currently and not just in the US and as you've found as well. Let's hope some different charging hardware will rectify this problem and also when VW gets access to the Supercharger network which I think is awhile off yet since they were one of the last brands to announce it.
Where I am, the chargers are few and far between. I could only imagine if one was completely out. You'd be stuck out in the middle of nowhere., but at least you'd probably have cell service at the stations. I guess you could always get a tow.
It's refreshing having new people review trucks and SUVs and cars
Thanks TFL 🙂
Expected more range! By the way, really enjoying the new presenters
13:33 I am sorry, but you have to correct your seatbelt position. it wont stop you in case of crash. it's way too low!! not to mention anything after 20min ;)
Fun video! I like the editing, pacing, music, banter, the energy. Well done!
100% agree. Came here to say the same thing but you did it better
Awesome job ladies! We definitely need more of Mary and Jen on this channel. Killing it.
You got it! More fun is coming!
You should do an EV cargo van test, Mercedes, Dodge, Ford E-Transit & Chevy Brightdrop. Buy or pickup a sofa and budget living room kit, coffee table, games machine, TV and shower toilet, drive out for a quick and simple trip to some level 2 chargers and do a camping weekend trip. Say a $1,000 budget for a weekend camping trip. Fish for dinner and see which van is the best for a weekend get away. Driving test, range test, charging test, parking, fishing and cooking. Then spend the night. Shower in the morning and toilet solution (5 gallon tub with liner bags).
Great Video, I love the design of the Buzz, but as with any other EV there is still way too much Range Anxiety. Until the Charger Infrastructure catches up I wouldn't consider an EV if I would be taking Road Trips. I would however look at Hybrids.
This is greatest TFLEV video ever made!! So funny!!
It seems like charging has become worse in 2024
I'd change that slightly to 'CCS charging' has become worse in 2024. Tesla supercharger network still very reliable and plentiful. I've never had to wait to charge, no crazy apps or swiping cards and hoping things work. I just plug in my Model Y and it starts charging in seconds. Even more simple than using a gas pump.
The only sense in which this could be true is that there are more vehicles on the road competing for charging. Because objectively there are more DCFCs installed now than ever. Reliability? Always been bad, not any worse now.
@@mowcowbell although I've heard from some Tesla owners that Tesla charging has gotten worse for them, only because the charger network has opened up... so they've had to wait due to blocked chargers from non Teslas charging, or stations being a lot more occupied than they had been in the past.
@@volvo09 This only applies to road trips. Most of my charging is done in my garage.
@@mowcowbell exactly, road trips only.
Entertaining and educational. Well done.
lol, I like the girls making appearances. My wife likes watching these moms review cars videos. It blows my mind. She’s not a “car person”, but she’s loves the girls perspective.
Wow! What an immense improvement over the last "review "!!!
Love the girls! Especially Jen! 😍 like the I.d. buzz… but… is there a spot for a tdi diesel in it? It’s needs to be a hybrid…
Roman no disrespect but JENN is a GORGEOUS WOMAN ❤❤I love TFL wishing everyone aMERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR❤❤❤🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
I enjoyed the video, the presenters obviously have great on-camera personalities, but at the end of it, I'm not sure I have a good sense of how much time was spent charging and/or looking for charging during the course of this road trip. How many miles traveled? Also where was this road trip? A loop in Colorado? How did the car get from O'hare airport in Rosemont, IL to Colorado? The goats are adorable. I love goats. More goats please. BUT I guess I ALSO feel like EVERY "EV roadtrip" video should have a nice summary at the end with how many miles traveled, how many times you stopped for charging, how much time you spent charging.
Purchased in Reading, Pa., 55 miles from Philadelphia. 😊😊😊😊😊😊😊
One of your more entertaining videos, more of these two please!
Can the back seats be removed?
Yes. There's a strap you pull and they lift right out
@ thanks
yes, quite easily.. however not the 2nd row which is insane. every VW bus driver ever has wanted to remove the 2nd row... not the 3rd!!
Roman, Tommy, Andre are lovely people; but, this channel just got a heck of a lot more interesting to watch. Riveted. 😍
I don't like evs but I like watching Mary and Jen !
So what I said on the last Buzz video still stands. Great around town vehicle, but the lack of range really puts the inherent weaknesses of EVs front and center. Needs a gas range extender.
Also, side note, the videography style with the girls is pretty fun compared to the guys. All business when Roman and the others are out but with Jen and Mary, it seemed a lot more like just two friends documenting their road trip. I like both styles and would like to see it mixed up a bit more like this in the future.
Like the positive energy in the video. Good chemistry between the ladies.
Thanks, appreciate it!
Funny thing is, in Tennessee, there are banks of EV chargers that go unused. You seldom ever see anyone charging. Tesla Superchargers often have a few cars, but never enough to take up every charger.
I’m interested to see how many of these actually sell, I also can’t imagine the feeling of getting to a charging station and the having to wait in line to wait….seems like an huge waste of time
I just want to echo the support for these two! Great video.
Why aren’t they checking the EA app for vacancies before arrival?
Good review. At some point you should consider a comparison with the Canoo EV?
Canoo just went bankrupt 😔
@@TFLEV that's a shame... and they were planning to launch in the UK market in 2025.
Those girls have very good chemistry and they do a great job😄
Mary and Jen, you put on a great video! I love this one. You all have such a good dynamic, snappy presentation, sharp skills and great editing to boot.
Well done, ladies. I'm impressed!
I had a '72 Volkswagen van. It had much better range, no issues refilling it.
I want one of these but no way I’m paying that price. I think the depreciation will be epic imagine picking up one soon for 20K. Just look at the values of the ID4.
Van looks great. Thx.
It really is a looker!
Looking good. I do so wish to nail this trip too. I'd certainly get a pair of driving gloves and night driving lenses and do it at nighttime. I come alive at night when everything is more peaceful with less congestion - better! Mr. Diamond was spot on. .
Daytime turns me off, and I don't mean maybe
Nine-to-five ain't takin' me where I'm bound
When it's done, I run out to see my baby
We get groovin' when the sun goes down
I thank the Lord for the night time
To forget the day
A day of up-uptight time
Baby, chase it away
I get relaxation
It's a time to groove
I thank the Lord for the night time
I thank the Lord for you
✌️👶🚬
I think it's interesting that the redemption video had exactly the same infrastructure issues as the first one, just with a smile lol
My Mach E can be similarly frustrating on a long trip
I do like the dynamic between these two when they're reviewing together. TFL has made false steps before with bringing on new people, but IMO, this is working out good. Maybe they can try to revive the buddy review concept?
These two are great!! Where did they even come from?
True that.
Thank you, ladies! That was a great vid and the goats were a scream!
I love this video with Mary and Jen! We need more videos with them on the channel!
The female viewpoint(s) adds a valuable component to reviews of cars normal people might actually acquire for regular use. The interests of our wives and in many cases daughters have a significant impact on the cars we get and use. (And I loved the goats. Our son and daughter-in-law raise sheep because the sheep are not as assertive as goats are.
Really love this vehicle. Wish they could have put a ton of power and a bigger battery. Almost there. Unfortunately it will take them another 10 years to get it right and they will be out of biz in less than 3!
As a Viewer since day 1, Jenn& Mary are the goat’s of the TFL Team, an upgrade from Tommy& Case. Happy Holidays to you both, Great Job & a cool vehicle by vw, it’s about time they made something this cool! Evan , From Rockland County, NY!
Thanks for putting out these videis that document real workd road trips in EVs. They continue to convince me that EVs are not for me.
The Celebrations 🎉🤗🙏people do when they start Charging indicates public Charging Is completely messed up🤔😔 11:23
I mean who Celebrates when they Succeed Plugging a Fuel Nozel 🤷🤨
Like, totally
You make a fair point. But really, being able to drive a car without feeding the oil cartels and without gassing out the neighborhood, is cause for celebration.