Is A $130 Fee For EV Drivers Really Fair? Plus, We Review The Volvo EX60

EV cars and charging equipment are improving, but EV adoption faces obstacles from federal government roadblocks. A Volvo EX60 experience reflects the shift toward “Gen 3” EVs. Earlier EV attempts from brands like Volvo, Mercedes, and BMW delivered mixed results because vehicles were not fully software-defined, lacked 800-volt architectures for ultra-fast charging, and were priced higher than comparable models. Newer arrivals from these brands are true software-defined vehicles with lighter packaging, improved performance, better user experience, and lower cost. The EX60 offers an ultra-polished interface, strong interior quality, excellent range specifications, quick charging, and pricing comparable to the plug-in hybrid XC60. Charging availability is also improving, with frequent access to 350-kW chargers in California and fewer broken units.

"What a bizarre year for the EV market. The cars themselves and the chargers they rely on have never been better, but the vibes have never been worse, as the federal government continuously throws roadblocks in the way of greater EV adoption."

"These companies made early pushes into the EV market, but with mixed results. The cars were fine, but on their first few attempts these companies couldn't realize all of the benefits that EVs offer. They weren't true software-defined vehicles, they didn't offer 800-volt architectures for ultra-fast charging, and they were far more expensive than traditional counterparts."

"All three are true software-defined vehicles, with the packaging, performance, user experience, and cost benefits that come with the territory. They're lighter, better looking, better to drive, and offer more range than their progenitors. I'm excited for all three. But the EX60 was the first one I drove, and boy did it live up to the hype."

"A few years ago, you'd be hard-pressed to find a fast charger that could support its 370-kW max charging speed. If you did find a 350 kW charger, it may have been broken. But that, too, is getting better. I can almost always find a 350-kW charger here in California, and I almost never see one broken."

Read at insideevs.com