This podcast episode of the "Kilometerfresser" series is all about current developments and personal impressions from the world of electromobility. Presenters Jonas and Tarek guide us through the show in an informative and entertaining way. They celebrate a small milestone right at the start: their channel is about to reach 800 subscribers on YouTube, and the 1000 subscriber mark is within reach. The anticipation is great - they are planning a special episode when they reach 1000 subscribers, and jokingly consider recording their own intro song to avoid future copyright problems. This casual introduction flows seamlessly into the main content of the episode.
A central element of every "Kilometerfresser" episode is the section "What's on the doorstep?", in which Jonas and Tarek report on the vehicles that are currently in their driveway or on their doorstep - mostly test cars or their own cars. The episode is also dedicated to a number of exciting topics: Firstly, the pair discuss the latest political plans to promote electric cars in Germany. They assess what a possible new purchase premium for electric cars could mean and what pitfalls there are. They also share their recent experiences with the latest generation of plug-in hybrid vehicles. Jonas in particular reports in detail on a two-week test with a modern plug-in hybrid, while Tarek has also recently driven such a vehicle. Together they analyze the advantages and disadvantages of this technology and discuss how plug-in hybrids should be used optimally. Another highlight of the episode is Jonas' short experience report on the brand new Tesla Model Y in a revised version. Finally, the presenters give an outlook on upcoming vehicles and projects. All in all, this episode promises to be a compact but informative all-round look at current topics in the electric car world.
Central insights
- Milestone and outlook: The presenters celebrate the fact that their YouTube channel is about to reach 800 subscribers and are aiming for the 1000 mark next. A special episode is planned for this and, with a twinkle in their eyes, they are considering recording their own intro jingle to avoid copyright problems with the existing music.
- "What's on the doorstep?" - test vehicles: Tarek and Jonas report on current vehicles on their doorstep. Jonas currently has no new test cars (just his own Kia EV6), while Tarek is looking after several exciting cars. He has just returned a BMW i5 Touring and taken delivery of a BMW i4 eDrive40 in an eye-catching matt blue instead. He is delighted with the color, but also notices how "old" the interior of the i4 looks compared to the modern i5. In addition, Tarek currently has a Skoda Elroq (an upcoming electric SUV from Skoda) on his doorstep, the sight of which Jonas comments as "great car".
- Fully equipped and price perception: The discussion touches on the problem of lavishly equipped test cars. Journalists often receive top models with the largest battery and full equipment. Although this leads to positive test experiences, it can create false expectations among the public. They mention the Skoda Elroq as an example: a fully equipped test vehicle quickly costs over €50,000, although the base model is significantly cheaper. Viewers then react with "Oh, so much money for an Elroq!" -
- Hype about new electric models: Jonas reveals that he took a look at Tarek's YouTube channel and was amazed that a video about the announced Renault 5 EV achieved even more views than the one about the Skoda Elroq. The response to the retro-modern Renault 5 small car has been huge - "going through the roof" - even though the car is not due until 2024/25. The pair note that the R5, with its iconic design, is already generating desire "like hot cakes", while the Skoda Elroq is generating a little less hype despite high expectations. Jonas enthuses: "The R5 may not be perfect - not very big and not super cheap - but it's really fun, looks mega and has cult potential."
- Personal priorities: During the conversation, it comes up that Jonas will have to miss out on attending several press events in March - including driving events for exciting models such as the Alpine A290, the Smart #1, the Ford "Capri" (a code name for a new e-car) and the Skoda Enyaq facelift. With a heavy heart, he cancels these appointments to spend more time with his family. Listeners also learn about the personal backgrounds of the presenters and their work-life balance.
- Political plans to promote electric cars: A central topic of the episode is the announcement of a possible new "incentive to buy" electric cars in Germany by a planned coalition government (including the CDU/CSU and SPD). Jonas and Tarek welcome the idea of promoting electromobility in principle, but emphasize the mistakes of previous subsidies. They hope that this time the focus will be on social justice - for example a graduated system like in France, where low-income earners receive higher subsidies or cheaper leasing rates for e-cars. It is important "that they don't totally screw it up again like they did the first time" and that the subsidies really reach those who need them most.
- Criticism of the subsidy chaos: The moderators also criticize the timing of this announcement. The mere prospect of a future premium could slow down the current market, as many potential buyers could now wait and see ("I might wait after all..."), although there are currently attractive offers and high discounts on electric cars (sometimes 20-30%, as manufacturers have to meet their CO₂ fleet targets). They find it paradoxical that politicians are now holding out the prospect of subsidies when the industry is already under pressure to sell electric cars. Instead of new premiums, Jonas and Tarek are calling for more pragmatic solutions such as cheaper charging power at public charging points, which would reduce everyday costs. Their appeal: if a purchase premium is introduced, it must be clearly regulated and passed on in full to customers so that manufacturers do not increase prices and the subsidy fizzles out.
- Volkswagen ID.1 in Portugal: Another news topic is Volkswagen's planned new entry-level electric car ID.1. The presenters were still talking about this concept the previous week, and now there is already concrete information: VW boss Thomas Schäfer has announced that the ID.1 is to be produced in Portugal from 2027, in a plant that is considered to be particularly efficient (the VW T-Cross is currently being built there). Jonas and Tarek are delighted that this important model will be built in Europe. They comment with a wink that VW may be the "announcement world champion" - many things are promised long in advance - but in the end, the Wolfsburg-based company will deliver: The ID.1 may be late, but it will be a success and sell well.
- Plug-in hybrid with new technology: At the heart of the episode, the hosts talk about their experiences with the latest generation of plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs). Jonas spent two weeks testing a Cupra Leon Sportstourer e-Hybrid (VZ) and is impressed by the technical advancements. This model has an unusually large battery (24.5 kWh gross, approx. 19.7 kWh net - comparable to early all-electric cars) and can even be charged at fast-charging stations (DC). In practice, this means a purely electric range of just under 115-120 km in urban/rural traffic in mild temperatures (and still around 80-90 km in winter) and the ability to charge the battery from 10% to 80% in around 22 minutes. Jonas is delighted: "Finally! It only took a good 20 minutes to charge from 10% to 80%." Such charging times were previously only known from purely electric cars - which makes it all the more remarkable for a plug-in hybrid.
- Advantages in everyday life: Thanks to the electric range of over 100 km, the Cupra can cover many distances in everyday life purely electrically. Even freeway stretches up to approx. 140 km/h are possible electrically. For Jonas, "two half drives are definitely a whole" - in other words, half an electric motor and half a combustion engine add up to a concept that is fully suitable for everyday use if used correctly. He is enthusiastic about how seamlessly the hybrid recuperates in city traffic and thus recovers energy. Tarek agrees and thinks it's "mega cool" that modern plug-in hybrids are now closing the gap by offering zero local emissions without completely giving up the freedom of a combustion engine on long journeys.
- Every e-kilometer counts - new perspective on PHEVs: The discussion between the two shows a change in thinking towards plug-in hybrids. Initially, they were annoyed when PHEVs blocked charging spaces, but now they see it differently: "Every kilometer that can be covered electrically is a benefit for all of us - for cleaner air and less noise in cities." They agree that they would rather drive a modern PHEV than a pure diesel. However, it is important that plug-in hybrids are actually used electrically - in other words, that they are charged regularly.
- DC charging as a game changer: Jonas and Tarek argue that a plug-in hybrid only makes complete sense with a fast charging function (DC). Without a DC connection, a PHEV is only worthwhile for people with their own wallbox at home, as otherwise it is almost impossible to recharge on the go. With DC, on the other hand, commuters with combustion engines can also use every stop on long journeys to "grab some power". The hosts give an example: After ~400 km on the highway, you would have to take a break either way - with a PHEV, you can fill the battery back up to ~85% in 20-25 minutes at the fast charging station. If PHEV drivers take this to heart and only block the charging stations for this short period of time, they are no longer a nuisance for pure e-car drivers. On the contrary, the vehicle is then "gone as quickly as a fast electric car." The two therefore hope that other manufacturers will also equip their plug-in models with DC charging options in the future.
- Plug-in vs. electric - what does the future hold? If PHEV owners charge their vehicle consistently, they will find that it almost feels like a pure electric car in everyday life. You charge daily or when needed, just like with a BEV, and after about 400 km you have to either refuel or - in the case of an electric car - charge anyway. The only advantage of the combustion engine in the PHEV is the slightly faster refueling on long journeys; in everyday use, however, a PHEV tends to have to be plugged in more often, as its battery is smaller than that of a fully electric car. In other words, the step towards a purely electric car is getting smaller and smaller. Jonas and Tarek share this insight with their listeners and show where they see the journey heading.
- Tesla Model Y (new generation) in a short test: Towards the end of the episode, Jonas devotes himself to his short test of the new Tesla Model Y (facelift). He had the opportunity to drive the revised model for about 15 hours and covered around 250 km. His conclusion is mixed. The design - "visually much better than its predecessor" - and the noticeably higher-quality interior are positive highlights. The chassis has also been revised: The Model Y now has slightly firmer and sportier suspension, which Jonas feels is a successful set-up. It feels like a middle ground between the soft standard Model 3 (Highland project) and a performance model - for him a plus in terms of driving comfort and dynamics at the same time.
- Little technical progress: Jonas is less enthusiastic about the fact that Tesla has hardly changed anything technically. Neither the drive nor the charging technology have been significantly improved. The promised slightly higher range of the new variant is practically unnoticeable in everyday life. During a charging session from 10% to 80%, he did not notice any reduction in charging time - around 32-33 minutes, similar to the previous Model Y. Jonas had hoped that Tesla, like some other manufacturers (e.g. VW with ID.3/ID.4), would enable a better charging curve via an update, but "it didn't happen". The bottom line, he concludes, is that the new Model Y is above all visually new: "technically really identical - in the end, it's simply a visual decision as to which design you like better."
- A little change of pace: Jonas' anecdote about the return of the blinker lever in the Tesla makes him smile. Tesla had abolished the blinker lever in the Model 3 "Highland" and replaced it with buttons. However, the new Model Y has a physical turn signal lever again. Jonas found himself flashing the high beam more often than the turn signal at first - his reflexes from the leverless Model 3 led to mistakes with the new lever ("I often flashed my headlights at the car in front when turning right"). After a short period of familiarization, this problem subsided, but the story shows how even small changes in the operating concept have noticeable effects.
- Outlook at upcoming tests: Finally, Jonas and Tarek give a brief overview of the exciting vehicles and projects coming up in the near future. The plans include a road trip with the VW ID.Buzz (in the short wheelbase version) as well as test drives with the new Ford Explorer EV and the Opel Grandland facelift. Jonas also mentions that he is attending a press event the next day, which is about the BYD Atto 2 (a compact electric car from Chinese manufacturer BYD). Tarek is unable to attend this event (fittingly, it is still March - his "driving event-free" month), but is looking forward to hearing about it from Jonas. So the episode ends with a lot of anticipation for the upcoming topics.
Detailed analysis of the topics
What's on the horizon? - Current test vehicles from the presenters
At the beginning of the episode, Jonas and Tarek greet each other in their usual good mood and start with the section "What's on the horizon?". They tell us which vehicles are currently waiting for them at home. Jonas keeps it short and laughs that he currently has "nothing special" on his doorstep - apart from his own Kia EV6, there is currently no test car available. Tarek, on the other hand, has a lot to say: "I've got a bit more going on," he announces. He had just test-driven the new electric BMW i5 Touring and returned it to BMW. In exchange, he has now taken delivery of a BMW i4 eDrive40 (the smaller model). Tarek is particularly taken with the paintwork: a matt blue that immediately impressed him when he picked it up at the BMW dealership ("it's such a beautiful color"). He doesn't miss this detail, even though they don't normally care about the color for videos - he is noticeably pleased about this.
In addition to the color, Tarek notices something else: After driving the ultra-modern i5 for two weeks, the interior of the i4 seems almost surprisingly old-fashioned. He tells Jonas that he was "shocked at how old the i4 is inside". The controls in the i4 (e.g. orange illuminated buttons, a different steering wheel button layout) seem much more outdated compared to the i5. Jonas agrees that the new generation (the i5) looks much more modern inside - apart from some of the piano lacquer, he jokes. Despite these criticisms, the i4 is of course still an exciting electric car, and Tarek also has another vehicle just around the corner: a Skoda Elroq. This upcoming compact e-SUV from Skoda - whose name is pronounced somewhat jokingly as "L-Rock" in the podcast - is also ready for a test drive at Tarek's place. Jonas comments approvingly: "Oh nice, great car." This means that the two hosts have several current models at their fingertips, which makes for a varied test impression.
Test car equipment and hype surrounding Renault 5 vs. Skoda Elroq
In their conversation, Jonas and Tarek talk about a common phenomenon: Manufacturers usually provide top-spec vehicles for tests. Tarek explains that car manufacturers naturally want their models to be presented in the best possible light - i.e. with the largest battery, most powerful engine and full range of equipment. From the user's point of view, however, there is a catch: the cars tested are often very expensive. Jonas mentions that they then say in the video, for example, "Our test car costs XY euros", to which some viewers react negatively. In the case of the Skoda Elroq, this means something like: "Oh, so much money for an Elroq - but it starts at €30,000." In fact, the price of the test Elroq in their example was over €50,000, which of course does not reflect the entry-level version. This dilemma - great features vs. realistic prices - is something both presenters know well. They agree that they would also like to test a basic model in order to stay closer to the reality of the average buyer.
An interesting aspect is also which new electric models are particularly popular with the viewers. Jonas reveals that he recently analyzed Tarek's YouTube channel to see which videos were well received. He was surprised: the video for the upcoming Renault 5 (an electric revival of the classic R5) had even more views than the one for the Skoda Elroq, even though the latter is seen as an important beacon of hope for 2025. "I was really surprised," says Jonas, "I thought the R5 - yes, it's popular, but that it's going through the roof like this..." Tarek can confirm this: his local Renault dealer is already experiencing enormous interest in the R5. This compact retro electric car, which won't be officially released for another year or two, already seems to be getting people excited. "It's selling like hot cakes," says Tarek, quoting the mood - even though the R5 doesn't shine in every objective respect: it won't be a space miracle (little room for adults in the back) and it won't be a bargain either. But it does have something that appeals to buyers emotionally: "It's so cool, man - it's fun, just looks mega and has cult potential," says Jonas, enthusiastically summarizing the advantages of the Renault 5. In contrast, the Skoda Elroq is a solid, family-friendly electric SUV, which is being touted as the "electric car of 2025" and is likely to succeed the Enyaq, but obviously can't quite keep up with the hype of the chic French car (yet).
In the course of this topic, Jonas also mentions that he regrets not being able to attend some upcoming test events. In particular, he mentions a driving event for the sporty Alpine A290 (a hotly anticipated electric hot hatch based on the R5), which he will have to miss. There are also invitations for the new Smart #1, a Ford electric model with the codename "Capri" and the facelift of the Skoda Enyaq - but Jonas has decided to take a break from such events in March. The reason is sympathetic: he wants to spend time with his family and "look after the little one". This personal touch shows that even for car enthusiasts like the "Kilometerfresser" presenters, family can take priority. Tarek understands this, of course, even if they both think it's a bit of a shame to miss out on exciting cars. Still, the cars aren't going anywhere, and they can still get to grips with these novelties when the time comes.
Political plans for new electric car subsidies
After chatting about cars and videos, Jonas and Tarek switch to the first big factual topic of the episode: politics. Specifically, it's about a recently published exploratory paper in which the CDU/CSU and SPD - who are expected to work together in a coalition government - outline new measures to promote electric mobility. The podcast mentions that the parties want to "create a purchase incentive for electromobility". This news is particularly interesting because many people still remember the environmental bonus for electric cars that expired just a few months ago. The presenters analyze the news with cautious optimism, but also clear criticism.
First of all, they are pleased about the signal that electromobility is still on the political agenda. However, they agree that the design will be crucial. Jonas recalls how things went wrong with the last subsidy ("environmental bonus"): "Back then, low-income earners didn't benefit as much," he notes. Both therefore hope that a new bonus will be more socially just. They cite the example of France, where buyers receive different subsidies depending on their income - those who earn less receive a higher subsidy or better conditions, for example for leasing. Jonas and Tarek believe that such a graduated system would also make sense in Germany in order to enable as many people as possible to switch to electric cars.
At the same time, they warn of negative side effects. The mere prospect of an upcoming bonus could dampen current sales of electric cars. Tarek exaggerates that it could be "perhaps 2026" before the subsidy is actually introduced - in the meantime, however, many buyers would wait and see. This is counterproductive, especially as there are currently so many good offers: "There are really crazy discounts" on new e-cars right now, up to 30%, because manufacturers have to meet their CO₂ fleet targets. Examples are given: You could currently get a BMW i5 Touring with a similar discount to a Skoda Elroq, for example - a sign of how much the market is on the move. Against this backdrop, the presenters don't quite understand why the state is now intervening with promises of subsidies: "The industry is under pressure to sell electric cars anyway - why do they need a big state incentive?" they ask rhetorically.
Their suggestion instead is: If you're going to subsidize, then maybe make the electricity at the charging stations cheaper. This approach would relieve the burden on all e-car drivers and create incentives to actually drive electric instead of just subsidizing the purchase. Jonas recalls that Tarek had already mentioned this idea months ago - and people from the industry also thought it was interesting. Overall, there is a sense of frustration: The government is standing up and shouting "We're promoting electric cars", whereas from the point of view of the two of them, "it doesn't really need to do that anymore". It is now important that clarity is created quickly. As long as nothing has been decided, there is uncertainty - and in the meantime, they believe that manufacturers will regulate the market with their own price reductions. If politicians do end up introducing a purchase premium, Jonas and Tarek appeal for it to be clear "in black and white" that it will reach the customer one-to-one and will not be siphoned off by manufacturers through price increases. Only then could a new edition of the subsidy be truly effective and sensible.
Volkswagen ID.1 - production in Europe secured
After looking at politics, the presenters turn to news from the automotive industry. It's about the Volkswagen ID.1, the announced entry-level electric car from VW, which will be priced and sized below the ID.2 and ID.3. Last week, Jonas and Tarek were still puzzling over where VW would build this new model - and speculating whether it might be in Germany. Now, however, there is a clear statement from VW boss Thomas Schäfer: the ID.1 will roll off the production line in Portugal. To be more precise, an existing plant (known for the production of the VW T-Cross) will manufacture the ID.1 from 2027. The podcasters comment positively on this news. Jonas is pleased: "Well, that's nice, then it will stay in Europe." Both welcome the decision, as European production promises short delivery routes and safeguards local jobs.
At the same time, there is some surprise that VW is announcing details so quickly. Only a short time ago, it was just a concept and just a few days later there is "detailed information", as Jonas marvels. However, they also know VW as masters of early announcements. Tarek remarks with a wink that some of the comments online were mocking, à la: "2027 - Volkswagen, the master of announcements... Everyone else is already bringing out models, VW keeps on announcing." Nevertheless, both are certain that VW will deliver: Even if the ID.1 comes late, he believes it will be a success. "Wait and see," says Jonas optimistically in his video, "they'll be late, but they'll hit." They are alluding to the fact that VW is lagging behind somewhat, but can meet a lot of demand with an attractive, affordable city car like the ID.1 from 2027. The tenor is: better late than never - and when it comes, it will be right.
Plug-in hybrid technology in a practical test: Cupra Leon e-Hybrid
The most extensive part of the episode is about plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) - cars that have both a combustion engine and a rechargeable electric drive. Jonas and Tarek have both recently gained experience with modern PHEVs. Jonas talks enthusiastically about his two-week test with a Cupra Leon Sportstourer e-Hybrid in the powerful VZ version. He was pleasantly surprised by this vehicle, as it has a number of new features that older plug-in hybrids did not have.
The most striking feature is the battery size. With around 19.7 kWh of usable capacity (24.5 kWh gross), the battery is as large as in some first-generation all-electric cars (for comparison: the first Renault Zoe had a similar battery size). As a result, the Cupra - measured in real terms - has an electric range of over 100 km. Jonas reports that he drove around 220 km in one day (a route from Cologne to Maastricht and back) and still had around 35% battery remaining at the end, even though he was driving the vehicle in hybrid mode. This means that the car uses the battery intelligently over the route. In city traffic and on country roads, it can often drive purely electrically and recuperate, while on the highway the electric motor supports the petrol engine when necessary.
Another revolution in this model is its fast-charging capability. For the first time, PHEVs, at least this one, can recharge at DC fast chargers. Jonas tried it out: When the battery was warm, the Cupra Leon e-Hybrid drew up to 54 kW of charging power. It went from 10% to 80% battery in around 21-22 minutes. "Finally!" exclaims Tarek enthusiastically when he hears about it - because this is exactly what they had wanted for a long time. This technology further blurs the boundaries between plug-in hybrids and electric cars: such a short charging pause is basically comparable to "recharging" a pure electric car. Jonas draws the comparison: Tarek's large SUV charges similarly quickly (he casually mentions "in your Tyrone", which is presumably a joking name for Tarek's vehicle). Both presenters are impressed that a family-friendly estate car like the Cupra Leon can achieve something like this.
Of course, they also talk about the driving performance. A top speed of up to 140 km/h is possible in e-mode - significantly more than older PHEVs, which often stopped at 130 km/h. In everyday life, the large battery meant that Jonas was able to drive almost completely electrically for many days. He puts it metaphorically: "Two halves can also make a whole." By this he means that two half systems (electric + combustion engine) together can make a complete package, depending on which angle you look at it from. For many drivers, such a vehicle could actually offer the best of both worlds: locally emission-free driving and yet no range anxiety on long journeys.
Discussion: the sense and practice of modern plug-in hybrids
After the field report, the conversation turns to a discussion of principles: How useful are plug-in hybrids really and under what conditions do they deliver their greatest benefits? Here, Jonas and Tarek exchange different perspectives - and you can tell that their attitude towards PHEVs has changed over time.
Tarek admits that he used to be annoyed when a plug-in hybrid parked at a public charging station and "sucked its 3.7 kW", while pure electric cars might be queuing up. The first plug-in models in particular (from Mercedes or Range Rover, for example) only had AC charging and often blocked the charging points for a long time. "Look, your favorite car is over there," his companion would then ironically point out such charging PHEVs to him, he says with a laugh. In the meantime, however, he sees things completely differently: as Jonas emphasized earlier, every kilometer driven electrically now counts for him. Every kilometer that is not covered with fossil fuel is a gain - for the environment and for the cities (less exhaust fumes, less noise). Both agree on this point: if a plug-in hybrid results in a car being driven 50% or more electrically, then the bottom line is positive.
However, there is an important prerequisite for this: The user must actually charge the plug-in hybrid. Jonas and Tarek know the negative examples: Company car drivers who only take a plug-in because of the tax benefits, never unpack the charging cable and end up returning the car with the cable unopened. For them, such cases are the epitome of misguided development, because an uncharged PHEV drives around sluggishly with its ballast (battery) most of the time and consumes even more gasoline than a normal hybrid. Tarek explains why: "Modern petrol cars often have at least a mild hybrid system that offers a little electric support (start-stop, recuperation, etc.). A plug-in hybrid, on the other hand, which drives without a battery, does not have this advantage - its combustion engine has to move an extra heavy car on its own, which drives up fuel consumption. That's why Jonas emphasizes: "You actually have to charge this car... because otherwise it consumes significantly more" compared to a petrol engine without hybrid support.
In plain language, this means that even a plug-in hybrid driver should plan a charging stop for long distances. Anyone who thinks they can drive 1000 km in one go with a PHEV without charging will find that the battery is definitely empty after the first refueling stop and the car then consumes a lot of fuel. The two outline an ideal usage scenario: you start with a full battery, drive 500 km, for example, and the battery is divided up in such a way that it can help continuously until the end of the journey - at the destination, the gas tank and battery are equally empty ("ideally, you arrive with an empty tank and an empty battery"). But you would have taken a break on the way anyway. And this is exactly where the new DC charging connection comes into play: "If, as a combustion engine driver, I stop after 400 km anyway to eat or go to the toilet, then I can use the 25 minutes and charge the thing back up to 85% at any fast charging station," says Jonas. In fact, a modern PHEV would be almost full again in this half hour, which would provide electric support for the next stage.
It is important to the moderators that PHEV drivers show consideration and really only charge for a short time - just as you would with a purely electric car when passing through. "Please only charge for these 20 minutes, then nobody will shit on you," Jonas appeals to plug-in owners in no uncertain terms. In other words: if you stick to the unwritten rules and don't block fast chargers forever, no e-car driver will complain that a plug-in is charging there. Tarek agrees and adds that many PHEV drivers may not yet have the same "mindset" as pure electric drivers when it comes to clearing the charging stations quickly - but that's something that can be learned.
In conclusion, both state that plug-in hybrids are future-proof, especially with DC charging capability. A PHEV that can only charge on AC is only really worthwhile if you have a wallbox at home and can always charge overnight. For all other usage profiles - especially frequent drivers without a home charging point - only the fast charging option makes the plug-in attractive. Jonas even goes so far as to say that many people who now drive a modern PHEV and charge consistently will soon realize that they are actually already living "like with an e-car". Charging every day, taking half an hour's break after 300-400 km - that's hardly any different from driving a purely electric car. The logical next step would then be to dispense with the combustion engine altogether, because the benefit advantage (fast refueling) in everyday life is small. From this perspective, the new plug-in hybrids are preparing the ground for an all-electric future by breaking down prejudices and changing drivers' habits.
First impressions of the new Tesla Model Y (facelift)
After the topic of plug-in hybrids has been discussed in detail, Jonas suggests: "And now comes my monologue on the Tesla Model Y." Tarek laughs and lets him get on with it - Jonas had persuaded him to talk briefly about this car, even though time was short. So he talks about his short test of the revised Tesla Model Y, which he had at his disposal for one evening and one night. In around 15 hours of driving time, he reeled off 250 km and gathered impressions.
First, the positive observations: Jonas likes the facelift of the Model Y much better visually than the previous model. Tesla has refined the bodywork in some areas and the SUV coupé now looks more modern and appealing. Something has also changed inside - the material feel and workmanship in the interior have been upgraded. "Really well done," says Jonas, praising the redesign of the cockpit. He is also particularly impressed by the suspension: Tesla has given the new Model Y a revised suspension setup. As the Model Y is higher than a sedan like the Model 3 due to its design, the decision was apparently made to make the suspension stiffer in order to maintain a dynamic driving experience despite the height. Jonas compares: He himself drives a Model 3 "Highland" (the latest facelift of the Model 3) in the Long Range version and finds it almost too comfortably tuned. The new Model Y, on the other hand, is right in between in terms of suspension - not as firm as a performance model, but slightly sportier than the Model 3. He finds the ride comfort to be very good and the firmness to be a successful middle ground.
Despite these improvements, there are also points of criticism. Jonas has an "extremely mixed opinion" because there are hardly any innovations from a technical point of view. He had hoped in advance that Tesla would take the opportunity to improve charging performance, for example. But when he connected the car to the Supercharger, he was disillusioned: from 10% to 80% SoC (State of Charge) took a good 32 minutes as usual - exactly the same as the previous Model Y. "I was hoping they would adjust the charging curve... it didn't happen," he notes. Likewise, the promised improvement in range is only theoretical: a few kilometers more according to WLTP, "you will hardly notice it in everyday life". In fact, consumption remains the same and the drive and battery technology is identical to its predecessor. Jonas' conclusion is therefore: "If you already have a Model Y, you won't miss anything technically - the decision for the new model is mainly a question of whether you like the new visual details better."
An anecdote in passing makes both of them smile. The new Model Y once again features classic levers on the steering wheel - including a turn signal lever. In Tesla's Model 3 Highland, the manufacturer had dispensed with levers and moved the blinker and gear selection to buttons and the touchscreen. Jonas, who is used to this, instinctively reached for the wrong control in the Model Y: "I blinked so often at the people in front of me," he says with a laugh. When trying to turn right, he sometimes used the lever that is responsible for the high beam at the top and the windshield wiper at the bottom of the new Tesla - with the effect that he inadvertently activated the headlight flasher. This unfamiliar operating layout led to a few "funny" moments until he had adjusted after a day or two. Such details show that Tesla has taken a small step back to traditional operation with the facelift (many customers had criticized the lack of levers), but this takes a little getting used to for those switching from the leverless model.
Overall, Jonas' verdict on the new Model Y is positive, but sober. For new customers, it is of course great to get the improved features. For existing Model Y drivers, however, there is little reason to be envious - the vehicles are too similar under the hood. Tarek, who has been listening attentively to Jonas, is now also in the picture and jokes that he has at least listened to the monologue and is therefore up to date without having to drive himself.
Outlook at upcoming projects
Before the episode ends, Jonas and Tarek take a look into the near future. They tell us what vehicle tests and experiences they have planned for the coming weeks. For example, they are planning a road trip with the VW ID.Buzz (in the short wheelbase version) to test its long-distance capabilities. Another road trip with the new Ford Explorer EV and a test drive with the revised Opel Grandland (plug-in hybrid) are also on the agenda. Jonas also mentions that he will be attending a press event the very next day about the BYD Atto 2 - a compact electric crossover from Chinese manufacturer BYD, which is being launched in Europe. Tarek can't be there on this date (his decided "event-free" March sends his regards), but is already looking forward to hearing Jonas' impressions in the podcast. The presenters conclude the episode and say goodbye with much anticipation for the upcoming topics.
Conclusion
Although this episode was a little shorter than usual (one presenter had to leave for an appointment soon), it still provided a comprehensive overview of numerous current aspects of electromobility. From personal driving impressions to political decisions, everything was represented. The presenters tested exciting electric and hybrid vehicles in practice and gained some very valuable insights. This showed how rapidly the technology is advancing: Today, a modern plug-in hybrid already manages over 100 km purely electrically and can be almost fully charged in a short break thanks to fast charging - unthinkable just a few years ago. At the same time, news and announcements (VW ID.1, possible e-car purchase premium) were critically analyzed and linked to personal experience.
For the audience, this means that they receive first-hand information and a classification of events by two experts who are passionate about the subject themselves. For example, you can find out which vehicles are currently causing a stir (the retro electric Renault 5 was surprisingly identified as a "click guarantee") and what you should look out for in the current e-car market (is it worth waiting for subsidies or is it better to benefit from the discount now?) The personal anecdotes - from Tarek's enthusiasm about a car color to Jonas' confusion about the turn signal lever in the Tesla - make abstract topics tangible and provide entertainment; the relaxed, authentic manner of the presenters ensures that the wealth of information really never feels dry. It is also remarkable how Jonas and Tarek openly changed their perspective (for example in relation to plug-in hybrids), which encourages you to think along. Anyone who listened to the end was offered a varied cross-section in less than half an hour - from everyday anecdotes to future prospects. With this episode, "Kilometerfresser" once again proves its value for all listeners who want to stay up-to-date on electric cars. The successful mix of specialist knowledge and casualness makes listening both instructive and an entertaining pleasure.