Why I Dislike Electric Cars: A Performance Enthusiast’s Perspective

For me, owning a Tesla Model 3 has been a joy, especially after resolving some minor issues with its front suspension. However, whenever I discuss electric cars or specifically Teslas with others, I often face their disdain or even disgust. This article explores my reasons for disliking electric cars, particularly focusing on the aspects that make them less suitable for my lifestyle and preferences.

Retailing My Tesla Model 3

My Tesla Model 3 AWD, long-range stealth performance, imported from Japan, has been a true buddy since day one. Despite a minor issue with the front suspension that required a 30-minute fix, I can confidently say that it far surpasses all other vehicles in terms of fun and performance for me. However, there’s a significant drawback: I vehemently dislike the person behind Tesla, Elon Musk, and I plan to trade my car quite soon.

Personal Preferences and Choices

Let me make it clear: I don’t like electric cars because I am a performance enthusiast. I don’t care about what other people drive. In fact, I believe that for the greater good of the world, a mix of electric, gas, and diesel vehicles is ideal. However, to truly have a choice in the market, governments should not incentivize one form over the other. A truly free-market approach should allow individuals to decide and buy what best suits their needs and budgets, regardless of the technology used.

Challenges and Issues with Electric Cars

For my long trips, which often exceed 500 miles one way and sometimes involve towing a trailer to remote areas, there are no current EVs that can meet my needs. The vast majority of electric vehicles are either ugly or impractical for my purposes. Here are a few examples:

Tesla UGLY: Not only is Tesla's design unappealing, but other notable manufacturers like Rivian, Lucid, and other brands fall into the same category. The Ioniq Prius GV60 i4 Bolt Volt Lyriq iX EV6 Niro MX30, and Leaf all share the same failing. Ugliness Is Prevalent: Among the ones that stand out, the Mach-E, although not a mustang, isn’t to my taste. The Mercedes EQS isn’t bad, but at 102k, it’s prohibitively expensive for my budget. Similarly, the Porsche Taycan, while good, starts at 86k, which is significantly more than a C43 AMG coupe or an E53 AMG sedan priced at 60k and 75k, respectively. With the extra cost, you can purchase a lot of oil changes and gasoline instead. Performance and Handling: EVs struggle with handling due to their excessive weight, and I care more about fun and real-world performance beyond a 0-60 sprint. Performance enthusiasts like me place a premium on how a vehicle handles, stops, and operates at higher speeds, which is challenging with today’s electric vehicles. Space and Parking Concerns: For my daily commute, an EV would have worked wonderfully. However, I already own three vehicles: two cars, one truck, and a boat, leaving me with no room to park another car. Adding another expensive electric vehicle makes no sense, especially when I could buy an old Honda Civic for $4000 that gets 50mpg and can be easily fixed at home.

Price and Government Subsidies

One aspect I absolutely despise about electric vehicles is the hidden pricing. For example, the Tesla Model 3 is listed as starting at $46k, but the fine print reveals that MSRP is $52k, with potential discounts dependent on tax incentives. I believe that if a product is too expensive to be affordable without government incentives, it suggests that the technology is not yet mature enough to compete on its own merits. Purchasing tax credits for electric vehicles with public funds seems unfair, as it rewards people wealthier than me and can buy a new car for potentially $20,000 more on top of that. It feels like a form of tax money being given as a bonus just for being well off.

Conclusion

In summary, while I believe that electric cars have significant potential, their current limitations, design, and pricing do not align with my personal preferences and needs as a performance enthusiast. I hope that as technology advances, we will see more practical, appealing, and affordable electric vehicles that can compete without government incentives. For now, my Tesla Model 3 remains the closest thing to a perfect vehicle for me, but I look forward to the day when I can truly enjoy a selection that doesn’t compromise on my performance priorities.