Electric vehicles: better strip it ALL down

So I got myself a Model Y, like millions around the world. My previous car was a Honda CRV . And, truth be told, the drivability of the Tesla is absolutely sublime. Smooth, confident, precise. Its safety features and apps are truly dreamlike.

I mean coming from a boring and lifeless (albeit dependable) Honda, even a tricycle would provide more entertainment, so I get that the bar was low.

But outside of the suave look of this car and the high fun factor, I have to say man that the range on these EVs is absolutely deflating. Garbage. Way below what is promised. And frankly, just not good enough.

Now granted, I reside in the North Pole (or, as some refer to it, "Canada"), and it's understandable that during the icy and frigid winter months, the car's range would decrease.

But as precipitously as it does? I never thought this could be possible.

In fact, you charge it overnight, and by the time you've warmed up the car, you're not even starting at 100%—you've already lost about 5-6%! Then, when you're on your way, be prepared, because if you're not traveling alone, you may need to make some "sacrifices" if you're driving beyond your borough.

I'm not necessarily suggesting you kick someone out of your car, but think carefully before deciding to keep the heat on. You'll need to endure the lowest comfortable cabin temperature possible. You might even have to turn off the heat entirely. Last January, I wore two jackets (just for a short drive to pick up my kids from school), a hat, some 80's ear muffs (yes, I still have them... I'm quite nostalgic), three pairs of socks, and wool mittens. No heated seats either; you'll just have to accept that your seat will get cold (maybe a pair of adult diapers could come in handy).

You like to listen to music in the car? Well, think again. You just can't afford it, son. And don't even think of humming to any tunes on your free radio (aka your head) as you will likely fog up the windows, or your glasses, or both (if you wear some).

In a perfect scenario, anyone riding with you should be asked to strip down completely. The reason is that the heavier the car, the more energy it consumes from the battery (and believe me, it's not like an Energizer bunny).

The ultimate challenge arises when you've left your car at a hotel overnight or stayed somewhere for a few hours and need to charge it on your way home or to your destination. Since the battery won't be preconditioned, you'll need to brace yourself for spending an hour at the charging station. And yes, you'll be freezing because you won't want to charge at this painfully slow rate while having the car's heater on simultaneously!

For those of you in countries with tropical climates, don't you chuckle too much. The air conditioning will also significantly reduce your battery range, much like a Pacman supercharged on some potent uppers.

Did I mention that EVs usually come with a hefty price tag, often significantly more than a gas-powered vehicle? Plus, repairing a part on a Tesla can cost you an arm, a leg, and perhaps even one of your nuts.

But hey, look at the bright side, at least you got some pretty hefty credits (oh no wait a minute, those are gone too).