All Race Cars, by definition, are built up to some degree. This is why there are classes for how built up they are, Formula 1 vs. more lightly-modified categories. Drag racing has similar classes. This is why comparing stock-to-stock (within a similar budget) makes the most sense. ICE cars can't compete here, not without having to spend a WHOLE lot more for similar performance. They especially can't compete with self-driving.
The point of the lunar rover example is to demonstrate how EVs don't breathe, so they're unaffected by air density or in the case of the moon, the vacuum of space (no air). This is a benefit. This is also why EVs are more flood-resistant, where vehicles that breathe in flood conditions risk breathing water, which will ruin their internal combustion engines in some fashion. It's also why EVs are so great a climbing hills, long hills, and perform well on hot or cold days without issue.
Batteries can be affected by extreme cold if battery hygiene is not followed properly, just like gas cars can run out of gas or can fail to start in cold conditions. There's no need to "start" an EV. It's basically always on, and a Tesla heats the battery for optimal fast-charging once a Supercharger destination is set. There are many more points of failure with ICE vehicles.
Manufacturers canceling their EV program? Means nothing, assuming this is true. Ferrari is a niche exotic marque, so they really don't need an EV for their brand, and in fact the sound of their performant IC motors is part of their appeal. Tesla's Model S and X don't sell a lot but those are expensive high-end EVs, but the S helped put Tesla on the map as it predated both the Model 3 and Y. In fact, it was their first production vehicle after the initial Roadster built on the Elise chassis. Tesla's bread-and-butter are the Model Y and Model 3, so it seems they're focusing on these models. I would hate to see the Model S Plaid go away but I haven't confirmed that they're canceling this apex model specifically.
EVs were around in the early days, but they weren't in wide or common use. Who has an EV from 1942? Why did GM kill the EV1 if EVs were around as long as gas cars? Why was GM so risk-averse if EVs were in common use as you imply? EV tech is one thing, but EVs weren't too popular until the Nissan LEAF and Tesla's first Roadsters, the Model S, and the Model 3 ramp. Everyone else (with respect to EVs) is playing catch-up to Tesla. Also, it seems a lot of manufacturers thought they had to make EVs ugly, or stupid-looking. The original LEAF is a prime example. Tesla changed all of that.
We're simply talking about technology, not just my love for EVs or your disdain for them.
