Part 1: The Shopping Saga

It all started with a phone call, two months earlier than I was expecting. My lease wasn’t up yet, but Kyle from Nissan reached out to initiate the conversation. Smart move on his part, especially since I was way over my mileage and still blissfully ignoring it. That one call quietly kicked off what turned into a full-blown car shopping saga.

I figured I’d test drive a few cars, crunch some numbers, and call it a day. Instead, I spent an entire rainy Sunday with my BFF turning my living room into EV University. YouTube became my co-pilot, teaching me all about charging stations, winter range loss, battery chemistry, and something called regenerative braking (which still kind of freaks me out). I even texted my friends, “Class is in session if you want to learn about EVs.” Honestly, we could’ve issued certificates by the end.

But behind all the homework was something real: it was time to say goodbye to the Caramel Cruiser. That’s what Shawn named the SUV he gave me years ago, and it stuck. That car saw road trips, grocery runs, tough days, and beautiful ones. Letting go wasn’t just practical—it was emotional. But I knew it was time for a new chapter.

Let’s start with the good.

Kyle at Myers Ottawa Nissan was thoughtful, chill, and never pushy. He checked in without pressure and actually wanted to hear about the other cars I was trying—like a supportive best friend who also happens to offer great financing. He knew he had a good deal, but more than that, he wanted me to end up in a car that fit my life.

Pat at Rockland Ford was the unsung hero of the car world. He let me test drive everything (including the glorious, massive F-150 Lightning which my friend did end up buying!). Pat spent two hours breaking down the difference between EVs, hybrids, plug-ins, and how each one fits a different lifestyle. If Kyle hadn’t landed the perfect lease and mileage offer, I’d be writing this from the front seat of a Mach-E—one beautiful car

The BMW i4? Big nope. Beautiful? Sure. Practical? Not even close. That one’s for someone with no winter activities, no hockey bags, and definitely no teenagers.

Forget torque specs—if the car can’t handle a full set of goalie gear and several hockey sticks, it’s a no from me. The Nissan Ariya passed the test with ease. Room for the boys and the dog with plenty of room to spare. Spacious trunk, fold-down seats, and easy packing for any tournament! We’re still a hockey family after all. 

I went with the Northern Light Ariya. The colour changes depending on the sun, and honestly, so do I. It felt symbolic in the best way. A little unpredictable, a little elegant, and always forward-looking.

Lessons from the Driver’s Seat

1. Use ChatGPT: Seriously. It’s like having a nerdy best friend who actually wants to go through comparison charts with you.

2. The salesperson is the dealership: If they ghost you before the sale, don’t expect help after. Read that again. They should be your friend. It’s not just about the sale.

3. Trust your gut: Not everyone is Team EV. That’s okay. Only you know your lifestyle, your values, and what’ll get you through a morning with a hockey bag.

4. Be open to learn: There’s a lot to know. Ask questions. Watch the videos. Text your friends. It’s worth it.

Buckle up! next we hit the road for my first real trip with the Ariya. Spoiler: it involves snacks, charging stations, and a lot of lessons I didn’t see coming.