Kevin

Kevin has been involved in the custom automotive scene since he bought his first mini-truck in high school and began modifying it. He also has interest in sustainability, DIY projects, and various forms of fabrication. Seeing improved technology of batteries, he has made a concentrated effort over the last few years to transition away from fossil fuels. From lawn care to automotive.

Tesla Software Update version 2020.40.3

Automotive, Electric Vehicles, Tesla /
tesla software update version 2020.40.3

Tesla has started rolling out their next over-the-air software update. This time around, it’s version 2020.40.3. I just installed it on our 2020 Model X Long Range Plus. These are the main features: Speed Assist Priority Bluetooth Device Glovebox PIN We’ll cover each in more detail below… Tesla Speed Assist Improvements Speed Assist is now able to utilize the onboard vehicle cameras to detect speed limit signs to improve the accuracy of speed limit data for highways. This feature was previously enabled for local roads, and has now been expanded to highways. We have a couple roads near us that are 35 mph. It’s happened again now where these two roads are indicating a 25 mph speed limit by Tesla. It will be interesting to see how long it takes to correct again. Tesla Priority Bluetooth Device With this feature, you can avoid connecting the wrong nearby phone by setting your priority Bluetooth device. With this feature enabled, your Tesla will attempt to connect to the priority device associated with the profile selected before it attempts to connect other paired phones. This is one I quickly took advantage of. Previously, we noticed that our Model X would seemingly pick or choose if it wanted to connect to my phone or my wife’s. She has a larger data plan, so I went ahead and set hers as the Priority Bluetooth Device. Here’s how to set your priority device: Tap the Bluetooth icon at the top of the touchscreen Select the preferred phone and slide the Priority Device slider. Glovebox PIN The Glovebox PIN is intended to protect the valuables in your glovebox with a 4 digit PIN. While I could see this being a headache for normal every day use, I could certainly see myself activating this in certain areas. If we plan to leave the vehicle unattended and have something we plan to leave in the glovebox, I’ll likely use it from time to time. Here’s how to enable a Glovebox PIN: Tap the Car “Controls” Icon Tap Safety & Security Then tap Glovebox PIN to set your PIN More Tesla News and Updates Check out more of our Tesla posts.

Tesla Software Update version 2020.40.3 Read More »

How To Install a ChargePoint Home Flex (Home EV Charging Upgrade)

Automotive, Electric Vehicles, Projects /
chargepoint-home-flex-installation

Over the last couple of years my previous GE EVSE has had some intermittent problems. I had been eyeing the ChargePoint EVSE’s for a while now as a possible replacement. That time has come, follow along as I swap out my existing EVSE with a brand new ChargePoint Home Flex. Using the existing wiring from my previous EVSE, the installation was fairly quick and straight forward. A Wi-Fi connection does appear to be a requirement though. My Wi-Fi signal outside isn’t that great, but it was enough. This charging station will be primarily used for our 2012 Nissan LEAF, but we may occasionally use it for my daughter’s Tesla Model 3 with the use of the Tesla J1772 adapter. ChargePoint Home Flex – The Specs Here we’ll take a quick look at some of the specifications on the ChargePoint Home Flex. Note: This is only intended as a reference, always be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions. You can view an electronic copy of the English version of the ChargePoint Home Flex Installation Guide. If you’re not comfortable working with electricity, be sure to higher a reputable and licensed electrician. Be familiar with your local codes – if you’re not, ask or once again, contact an electrician. If you’re interested in buying a ChargePoint Home Flex, they’re available here on Amazon. Unboxing the ChargePoint Home Flex Here’s what the ChargePoint Home Flex comes with: a. Charging station (with attached input power cable)b. Faceplate (pre-installed on charging station)c. Installation templated. Charging cable with cable clipe. Wire cover (pre-installed on charging station)f. 10 mm (3/8 in) driver bitg. 4 mm (3/16 in) drill bith. Three 6 mm (1/4 in) x 51 mm (2 in) lag screws I don’t quite understand why, but the charging cable is shipped disconnected from the unit. It’s fairly quick to install, but this could be a very fast plug in and go installation for those using an existing NEMA 14-50 or 6-50 outlet. Installation of the ChargePoint Home Flex Tools Needed The first step is pretty straight forward, simply install one of the supplied screws into your mounting location (assuming you’re not installing into cinderblock, brick, or any other masonry type surface). You want to make sure you can locate a stud for a solid installation. To determine my mounting location, I had to go inside the garage to locate some studs, then go back outside to measure from the corner of the garage. Be sure to also also account for the wall thickness of an adjacent wall if you go with this approach. The instructions say to leave 3mm gap for the screw head to the mounting surface. Installing on Hardie Plank Lap Siding This is stating what should be fairly obvious, but installing on lap siding isn’t ideal from a fit and finish standpoint. A flat surface would give a cleaner install. I considered recessing the unit or cutting out a rectangular shape out of the siding and installing a flat surface (similar to how faucets are typically done on lap siding). Ultimately, I decided not to. My previous EVSE lasted nearly 5 years before I decided it was time to replace it. I’m optimistic this ChargePoint unit will last much longer, but I also didn’t want to commit to cutting up my siding for something that might be removed later. Deciding the Location: Height and Fitment I wanted to locate this unit slightly closer to the driveway compared to where I installed the GE unit. For a new installation, you’ll want to make sure you choose a location that allows the cable to easily reach where a vehicle will be parked and that it still provides slack on the cable when plugged into the vehicle. To determine the height I wanted to mount the EVSE at, I placed it over the lap siding to see where the 3 lag screws would roughly be located along with the back opening for the power wire. I also wanted to make sure it wouldn’t be at too awkward of an angle. My goal was to minimize gaps and keep it level. To locate my next screws, I placed the charger onto the screw I just installed. A paper template is also included, but it didn’t seem practical for an installation on lap siding. It should work perfectly fine for a flat installation location. The next step was to locate where to pre-drill for the final two mounting screws. I also marked where I was going to run my wires from, since this was a slightly different location from the GE EVSE install. Here I’ve pulled my wires through, completed the connections, and installed the last 2 mounting screws. Here’s the charger power cables placed into position. Be sure to also install the Cable Clip. Last step was to press down on the white levers to secure the cables. After all your connections are made and the mounting screws are installed, it’s time to install the panel cover. Be sure to look at which position is locked and unlocked. The instructions recommend using a coin to prevent damage. Re-install the cover plate, turn on the power at the breaker, and you’re ready to go complete setup in the app. Once the breaker has been switched on, the indicator light should slowly light up white. Setup Through the ChargePoint App Once you have your ChargePoint Home Flex powered up, you should see the indicator light begin to blink white. It is now ready for setup through the ChargePoint App which can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play. Installation Type Note: These screenshots were taken during my own installation, the steps and other images may change with updates to the ChargePoint App, I’m merely sharing these as reference. The first step is to select your installation type, whether it was hardwired or a plug-in. Since I hardwired mine, this is the selection I made. Breaker Amperage On this next screen, you’ll select your breaker amperage. For

How To Install a ChargePoint Home Flex (Home EV Charging Upgrade) Read More »

Tesla Model S Has Gone Plaid! And, It’s Ready for Pre-Order

Automotive, Electric Vehicles, Tesla /
tesla-model-s-plaid

Tesla announced on September 22nd, 2020 during their Battery Day, that the Tesla Model S Plaid version is now available to order! Although previously communicated it could be available at the end of 2020, Tesla is now targetting the end of 2021 for the Plaid version. The Specs 0-60mph Under 2.0 seconds 1/4 Mile Under 9.0 seconds Horsepower 1100+ hp Drivetrain Tri Motor All-Wheel Drive Range 520+ Miles Per Charge Top Speed 200 mph Price Tag Starting at $139,990 Tesla has been under promising and over delivering on some specs the last couple of years. This has been the case with the range of the Model Y and their ability to start offering auto-pilot as standard equipment. They’ve also had recent price breaks on the 3, S, and X. There’s a handful of “plus” or less than specs listed here. It will be interesting to see where the horsepower, 0-60 and quarter mile times, as well as the range actually come in at. Price The Tesla Model S Plaid version has a starting price of $139,990. Currently through the Tesla website, you can still add the same options currently available for the Long Range Plus and Performance Models. This includes a wheel upgrade, full self-driving, and premium interior options. Maxing out those options will get you up to $156,490. A lot can change between today and late 2021. More options may become available for the Plaid version. Range and Battery Technology With the Tesla Model S Plaid version, the vehicle will take advantage of the new battery cell technology that Tesla announced during Battery Day. It’s a battery cell that appears will be almost the size of a soda can. This battery is a 4680 cell and will use some of the intellectual property of Maxwell Technologies, whom Tesla bought out in 2019. One thing we learned from Battery Day is that the 4680 cells will no longer be incased in a battery pack. Similar to many jets using the open space inside of the wings for fuel now, the body will be structured to house all of these battery cells. Track Time This most recent footage from Laguna Seca that Tesla showed during Battery Day appears to be a standard Model S body. They ran the course with a time of 1 minute 30 seconds and 3/10th’s of a second. Elon mentions they’re confident they can trim another 3 seconds or so off this time. If they can, it would make the Plaid Model S the fastest track time of any production car, whether it’s a two or four door. On their website now, if you click on the Plaid Tri Motor All-Wheel Drive option there’s no visible body style change from the Long Range Plus to the Performance, or to the Plaid versions. However, this could certainly change between now and production. For an earlier prototype of the Model S Plaid version that was ran at that track, there appeared to be a wider body kit. It also has some air intakes (possibly for helping to cool the brakes). There’s a handful of people who feel the Model S (and X) are overdue for a refresh. The Model S first came out in 2012. It has received a front bumper fascia update, slightly updated headlights and taillights, but largely has kept the same overall styling. Sales of both the Model S and X have become a bit more stagnant over the years. Will a Plaid powertrain help push sales back up? Would an interior and exterior update or vastly improved range help? Images of a Model 3 styled dash surfaced a couple years ago. It suggested the S and X would receive a similar, more minimalistic interior. What will you get for the extra $45,000 over the Performance version? Will it be all performance or will we see other changes or additions for Plaid? Are You Considering a Tesla Purchase? If you’re looking to purchase a new Tesla vehicle or Tesla Energy product, or even a Tesla Model S Plaid version please consider using my referral code (link to Tesla with my code): https://ts.la/kevin82163 Looking for More Articles on Tesla? Check out our other Tesla posts here: https://fabville.com/category/automotive/electric-vehicles/tesla

Tesla Model S Has Gone Plaid! And, It’s Ready for Pre-Order Read More »

Tesla Battery Day 2020 is Just Around the Corner!

Automotive, Electric Vehicles, Tesla /
Tesla Battery Day 2020

Tesla’s Battery Day has been pushed back a couple times this year, but we’re now less than 2 weeks away. Originally slated for April, it is now scheduled for September 22nd. There’s been quite a bit of speculation around what announcements they might share during the event. Battery Tech Clearly the main focus during their Battery Day events is around the battery technology itself. There’s been discussion of a battery pack that will last over a million miles, has Tesla now achieved this feat? Current Tesla battery packs are estimated to last somewhere between 350,000-500,000 miles before they need to be replaced. It would take some substantial cycle testing to determine if a battery pack can last for one million miles. Big Announcements Coming Elon Musk tweeted that many exciting things would be announced on Battery Day. This is only going to fuel the speculation! Many exciting things will be unveiled on Battery Day 9/22 ⚡️ — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) September 11, 2020 Maxwell Technologies Back in May, Tesla acquired Maxwell. Is it possible that Tesla has had enough time to incorporate some of the proprietary technology from Maxwell into their products already? Project Roadrunner Earlier this year, information about a code name “Project Roadrunner” was leaked. This is an internal project within Tesla to lower the cost of battery cells. Could some of this information come to light at Battery Day? Plaid Model S Prior to the Coronavirus pandemic, Tesla was estimating a release of a Plaid Model S by the end of the year. A tribute or borrowed naming from Space Balls, a movie Elon has referenced before had the line “the only thing faster than ludicrous is plaid!”. It’s quite possible there’s an update during Battery Day regarding the Plaid Model S. Photos of the Model S prototype with the tri-motor drive train showed some subtle enhancements to the body such as air intakes in the fenders. Tesla Model S and X Refresh A photo showing a more minimalist interior for the Tesla Model S and X surfaced last year. The rendering was quite similar to the Model 3 interior. Some individuals feel the Model S and X are a bit dated, especially the Model S that has only had a minor fascia upgrade since it first went into production in 2012. It’s quite possible that Tesla could also announce an update to the interior and/or exterior of the Model S and X. Bigger Battery Packs and Longer Range? Tesla has mentioned making batteries more dense. This would mean more power in a smaller size. This could open up things for battery packs that are larger than the current 100 kWh packs on the Model S and X. Larger battery packs would directly correlate to even longer range. Is it possible we might see 125 kWh or 150 kWh packs? Summary For those who are fans of EV’s, the Tesla Battery Day should bring some big news. Lot’s of speculation is out there, but all we can really do is sit back and wait. As the countdown to Tesla Battery Day gets closer, there should be more details on the time. Like previous events, it will likely be streamed live with a link on the Tesla.com website. Are You Considering a Tesla Purchase? If you’re looking to purchase a new Tesla vehicle or Tesla Energy product, please consider using my referral code (link to Tesla with my code): https://ts.la/kevin82163 Looking for More Articles on Tesla? Check out our other Tesla posts here: https://fabville.com/category/automotive/electric-vehicles/tesla

Tesla Battery Day 2020 is Just Around the Corner! Read More »

Aviar R67 – Another Classic Electric Mustang for Production?

Automotive, Electric Vehicles /
aviar r67

Aviar Motors has renderings and some real-life photos of what they call the R67. It’s essentially a modern version of the Ford Mustang Fastback from the late 60’s. To be exact, more likely the 1967 (hence the R67 name). Some details including price, expected production date, and production quantities aren’t listed on their website. It’s also unclear if the design is finalized or if they are still in an earlier concept phase at this point. In it’s current form, it appears it will have a carbon fiber body based on the 1967 Ford Mustang with some more modern components. Many of these modern components are borrowed from Tesla. On one of their photos, you can clearly see Tesla brakes components including the red caliper. Tesla’s adjustable shock tower also appears to be part of the suspension. More on the brakes later… Per their press kit… AVIAR R67 electric car is made on the basis of Tesla Model S automobile. AVIAR R67 project uses a battery, electric motors, gearboxes, suspension elements, power cables, electronics manufactured by Tesla. While on their website they claim it’s “the first electric muscle car with incredible acceleration dynamics and a high level of comfort”, let’s not forget about the Charge Mustang. I’m not sure if Charge has produced and sold any of their Mustang’s yet, but it would be great see some of these on the streets and in the hands of private owners. With what I’m sure will be a fairly substantial price tag, just don’t expect mass quantities of them – assuming either are able to go into production. Aviar R67 Specs Power 840hp 0-100km/h (0-62mph) 2.2 seconds Top Speed 250 km/h (155mph) Range 507 km (315 miles) Battery 100 kWh Exterior Shots Interior Aviar R67 Prototype (with Unpainted Carbon Fiber Body) Aviar R67 Features Some of the features they list include: Autopilot Sensors and Cameras Electronic Stability and Traction Control Voice-Activated Controls Climate Control 6 Airbags throughout LED Optics WiFi and Cellular Internet Capability Bluetooth Hands-Free Calling One-Touch Power Windows Backlit Pull-Out Handle Heated Steering Wheel and Seats Dual-Zone Climate Control 17″ Touch Screen HEPA Air Filtration System (Biohazard Mode?) New or Salvaged Tesla Parts? Since as of today, Tesla hasn’t made it easy for owners to purchase certain parts from them, it makes you wonder. Is Aviar planning on building the R67 from a wrecked Tesla or have they possibly reached a deal with them to obtain new parts? Tesla Supercharging for the Aviar R67? Here’s a big feature they’ve listed, they also state the R67 is compatible with Tesla Supercharge stations. Many Tesla’s that have been totaled by insurance companies have been “blacklisted” from the Tesla Superharging network. Will the R67 actually work at Tesla Superchargers? Door Handles Looking closely at the door handles, they also appear to be borrowed directly from the Tesla Model S. If that’s the case, and assuming other hardware/software is pulled from the Tesla Model S, they’ll likely be self-presenting handles. Painted? I think the raw carbon fiber body gives quite a unique look. I wouldn’t mind seeing it left in this form and not have any paint. Brakes While many parts are borrowed from Tesla, the brake discs were designed specifically for the R67. The discs are machined from 6060 aluminum alloy. This is to help to improve dynamic performance and handling. Aviar R67 Price and Other Questions Price As mentioned earlier, one of the big questions (for me at least) is the price. While clearly not an easy task to build a prototype, going into production is quite another. Production and New or Used Parts? Will Aviar Motors be able to mass produce these, albeit likely in a low volume capacity? Are they dependent on salvaged Tesla’s for parts or have they worked out an agreement direct with Tesla? Geographical Market How big of market will they have? Will these ever see US soil since they are based on a classic Mustang? Restomod or Electromod? Personally I would love to see more vintage and classic cars go through modern manufacturing. Give it a bit of a restomod update or what or a new buzz word I’ve seen is “Electromod”. Straight from a manufacturer or as a kit similar to the Shelby Cobra replicas. Even if it’s not the original manufacturer. Let someone else give a modern take on a classic (assuming they have everything cleared from a licensing standpoint). There’s certainly purists out there who want everything left stock and original on certain classics. For myself, I enjoy seeing the custom modified vehicles. And rather than putting endless hours into restoring old, rusted out parts, why not look to components built with modern technology? You can’t always original for everything. Restored vehicles typically see new paint and other components here or there. About Aviar Motors Aviar Motors was founded by Aleksey Rachev and is based in Russia. They’ve drawn influence not only from American muscle cars from the 1960’s, but other cultural influence such as Apollo 11 and Woodstock. I could not let this wonderful cars be left no more than in the pages of history, just for the reason of ecology, economy, new safety standards and the rest of various factors. That would be just awful! Aleksey Rachev, Founder of AVIAR Motors Check out AVIARMotors.com. Comments? What are your thoughts on the Aviar R67 Electric Mustang? Leave your comments below…

Aviar R67 – Another Classic Electric Mustang for Production? Read More »

Cybertruck on Jay Leno’s Garage – Full Segment

Automotive, Cybertruck, Electric Vehicles, Tesla /
tesla cybertruck on jay leno's garage

The last week or so, CNBC posted a couple of shorter “sneak peak” clips of the upcoming episode. This is the full segment, but definitely missing some footage previously show. This includes the trailer for the new season of Jay Leno’s Garage. Most notably, the Cyberquad footage. Perhaps some additional footage will end up on Jay Leno’s channel since it doesn’t appear to have made the CNBC cut. So here it is, the full episode of the Cybertruck on Jay Leno’s Garage, just a bit over 6 minutes.

Cybertruck on Jay Leno’s Garage – Full Segment Read More »