Electric vehicles (EVs) have come a long way, but not all models have hit the mark. For EV buyers and car enthusiasts, it’s essential to know which models to avoid. These are the electric vehicles that for one reason or another sucked there worst.
1. Nissan Leaf (First Generation)
Complete piece of fucking shit cuz the battery wouldn’t have powered an alarm clock.
The Nissan Leaf was one of the first mass-market electric cars, but its initial release left much to be desired. Early model years of the LEAF have been notorious for having poor battery life, mainly because their batteries aren’t liquid-cooled.
Liquid cooling is a technology that uses coolants, like water, ethylene glycol, and refrigerant, to keep the battery cool.
Key Issues:
- Limited Range: Early models offered a range of just 73 miles, highly impractical for long-distance travel.
- Battery Degradation: Users reported significant battery capacity loss within a few years, further reducing range.
Very small battery that got a hard life, not particularly great battery chemistry, inferior battery management software and on top of this, no active battery thermal management. I know from experience that it was very easy to get a Leaf battery very hot indeed, and that does nothing for battery longevity. Still, there are several on a local site that are from 2011 and still going strong.
- Basic Interior: The interior lacked the premium feel expected in a car priced similarly to the Leaf.
2. Tesla Cybertruck
Elon Musk is a cunt. If it weren’t for Cybertruck, we would be on our way to a game changing $25k Model 2. Fucking cunt. Yeah, yeah, yeah…I know the robotaxi vaporware is partially responsible for that as well. But not as responsible as The Delorean Ripoff.
While not yet widely available, the Tesla Cybertruck has already faced significant criticism. Here are a just a few issues:
- Tesla’s Cybertruck recalled for a fourth time over parts issues
- The Cybertruck is genuinely the worst thing ever put on wheels,
- RECALL REVEALS ABYSMAL TESLA CYBERTRUCK SALES FIGURES
- TESLA (TSLA) DIPS AS CYBERTRUCK COSTS 53% MORE THAN PLANNED
Key Issues:
- Controversial Design: The futuristic, angular design has polarized opinions and may not age well. Never mind the maintenance.
- Production Delays: Constant delays have led to frustration among pre-order customers.
- Size and Practicality: Its large size and unconventional design make it impractical for urban environments.
Oh and “The Tesla Cybertruck has doors that can sever your fingers, a gas pedal that can accelerate uncontrollably into a fatal crash, and now (likely a result of the former points) an aftermarket price in free fall.”
3. Mitsubishi i-MiEV
Some asshat designed a square cup holder that was not only square, but was smaller than a 70s ashtray. The design just gets worse from there.
Specs:
47 kW (63 hp), 180 N⋅m (133 lbf⋅ft) permanent-magnet motor · Single speed reduction gear · 16 kWh / 58 MJ (Li-ion battery).
One of the earliest electric cars available to consumers, the Mitsubishi i-MiEV fell short in several areas.
“It looks like an egg had a baby with a golf cart…Most don’t remember it. But those that do remember it as a joke.”
-Doug DeMuro
Key Issues:
- Range Anxiety: With a range of just 62 miles, the i-MiEV struggled to meet everyday driving needs.
- Performance: The car’s underwhelming acceleration and top speed made it feel more like a golf cart than a roadworthy vehicle. This piece of shit topped out at 80 mph. The charging functionality (with its antenna remote) was a joke The Jetsons would not have written. Oh, and it sported 63 horsepower.
- Safety Concerns: It received poor crash test ratings, raising concerns about occupant safety. There were also MANY recalls, specifically two for the air bags.
4. Chevrolet Spark EV
Another early entry into the EV market, the Chevrolet Spark EV failed to impress.
Specs:
- 105-kilowatt electric motor (140 horsepower and 327 pound-feet of torque).
- Power for the motor comes from an 18.4-kWh lithium-ion battery pack. 4 door hatchback.
- Battery charge time: 20h at 110V, 7h at 220V
- Battery: 19 kWh 400 V lithium-ion
- Powertrain, Transmission Issues
- Engine Problems: “This is a periodic occurrence”
- Fuel/Propulsion System Problems
- Brakes Problems
Key Issues:
- Limited Availability: It was only sold in certain states, making it difficult for many interested buyers to even consider it.
- Range Limitations: A range of around 82 miles meant constant charging for most users.
- Lack of Features: Compared to competitors, the Spark EV was light on advanced tech and comfort features.
5. Fiat 500e
What if I told you that this car was such a fucking turd that you could lease it for $49.99. I not shitting you…$49.99.
While stylish, the Fiat 500e had its fair share of shortcomings.
Key Issues:
- Range: Offering just 87 miles of range, it couldn’t compete with more practical options.
- Space Constraints: The small interior was cramped, especially for taller drivers.
- High Lease Prices: The lease agreements were often expensive, making it a tough sell despite its lower purchase price.
While the EV market continues to evolve, these models serve as reminders that innovation doesn’t always mean success. If you’re in the market for an electric vehicle, make sure to do your homework and avoid these pitfalls. For more insights and advice on choosing the right EV, stay tuned and join our community of car enthusiasts!