An Oregon-based YouTuber driving a customized Tesla Model X from Canada to Argentina encountered his first major vehicle issue in a remote part of Colombia. The electric SUV, converted into a camper, faced a jammed charging latch that required towing. The journey highlights both the feasibility and challenges of long-distance EV travel across the Americas.
Sandro van Kuijck, known online as Everyday Sandro, embarked on an ambitious road trip in his Tesla Model X, nicknamed Beluga, starting from Canada and heading south toward Tierra del Fuego in Argentina. The vehicle has been modified into a camper to support the multi-country expedition, which aims to demonstrate that electric vehicles can handle extensive overland travel similar to traditional gas-powered cars. The primary motivation is enjoyment, coupled with showcasing EV capabilities on diverse terrains and infrastructures.
Throughout the journey, van Kuijck navigated challenges common to any cross-continental drive. He dealt with encounters involving police and criminals in various regions, issues that would affect drivers of any vehicle type. The infamous Darién Gap, a dense jungle barrier between Panama and Colombia, forced a bypass, as it remains impassable by road for all cars. Charging proved straightforward in Canada and the United States but grew progressively harder as he moved into Central and South America, reflecting the sparser EV infrastructure in those areas.
The trip progressed without significant electric vehicle-specific problems until reaching a remote area in Colombia. There, the Model X suffered a breakdown caused by a jammed latch on its charging port, preventing recharging and necessitating a tow. This incident, detailed in van Kuijck's latest video, marks the first serious mechanical hitch after thousands of miles. Despite this setback, the overall experience underscores the reliability of EVs for adventure travel, though it also reveals persistent hurdles like charging access in less-developed regions.
As van Kuijck continues southward, future updates may address repairs and the path ahead through more challenging South American landscapes.
