Key Takeaways
- Haroon Hyder, a Tesla Cybertruck owner, detailed his round trip journey from North Carolina to Toronto.
- The Cybertruck’s Full Self Driving (FSD) system made the drive easier and more relaxing compared to his previous car, BMW X7 40i.
- Winter conditions posed a challenge; the Cybertruck lost about 10% battery overnight due to the cold.
- A mechanical issue arose; the front camera stopped working after 15 hours, requiring a Tesla service appointment.
- Frequent charging stops (every 2 hours) added up to extra travel time compared to the BMW X7, which only needed two gas refills.
- Some users, like Jason Beckham, find the necessary breaks for charging during long trips worthwhile due to added relaxation.
- Users in cold climates note increased energy consumption, recommending understanding and planning for longer charge times in winter.
- Electrify America suggests EV owners understand cold weather features and plan charging tips to mitigate range reduction impacts.
Embarking on a road trip with an electric vehicle (EV) during winter presents unique challenges and thrilling opportunities. Haroon Hyder’s round trip jourfney from North Carolina to Toronto in his Tesla Cybertruck offers a detailed insight into such an adventure. This post delves into his experiences, compares it with conventional vehicles, and outlines strategies for optimizing EV performance in cold climates.
Embracing the Future: Tesla Cybertruck vs. BMW X7 40i
Haroon Hyder, a dedicated Tesla Cybertruck owner, ventured on a significant road trip across state and national borders. His previous experiences with a BMW X7 40i give him a unique perspective on comparing traditional and electric vehicles under similar conditions.
Key Comparisons
- Driving Experience: Tesla’s Full Self Driving (FSD) system significantly enhanced Haroon’s driving experience, providing a more relaxing journey compared to his BMW X7 40i. The FSD’s ability to handle various driving conditions reduces driver fatigue on long trips.
- Time Efficiency: The Cybertruck’s need for frequent charging (every two hours) extended the journey time compared to the X7, which required only two gas refills. The extra downtime, however, can be seen as an opportunity for rest and relaxation.

Winter Weather and EV Challenges
Winter conditions unveiled distinct hurdles for the Cybertruck. As temperatures plunged, eco-conscious drivers encountered specific energy use patterns and vehicle performance quirks pivotal for planning and execution of winter road trips.
- Battery Performance: Haroon experienced a notable 10% battery loss overnight due to the cold. This highlights a common issue for EVs in winter, necessitating planning for battery management.
- Mechanical Hiccups: A surprising mechanical issue emerged during Haroon’s journey, with the front camera ceasing to function after 15 hours on the road. Dealing with such malfunctions can be complex, emphasizing the importance of extended service and warranty packages.

Tips for Winter EV Travel
Traveling in winter with an EV requires strategic planning to mitigate common issues like battery drainage and mechanical mishaps. Here are essential tips to enhance your winter EV road trip:
- Understand Your Vehicle’s Capabilities: Familiarize yourself with the full suite of your Cybertruck’s features, focusing on its cold-weather functions.
- Plan Charging Stops: Frequent stops for charging demand strategic planning. Consider Jason Beckham’s approach, using stops as opportunities to relax and refresh before resuming travel.
- Optimize Battery Use: Use recommendations from Electrify America, which suggests understanding cold weather impacts on battery life and planning longer charge times.
- Leverage Built-In Features: Utilize Tesla’s pre-conditioning feature to warm up the battery, optimizing its efficiency and maintaining range in colder temperatures.
- Service and Maintenance Considerations: Be proactive about service appointments, especially for unexpected mechanical issues that may arise during extensive travel.
EV vs. Traditional Fuel: A Balanced Perspective
While the electric vehicle journey presents unique challenges, the advantages of reduced emissions and advanced features like Tesla’s FSD highlight a progressive path forward. However, like Haroon, EV owners must balance travel time and charging infrastructure limitations against the benefits.