The digital frustration of electric vehicle owners has reached a boiling point, with online commentators unanimously critiquing car manufacturers' approach to mobile applications and in-vehicle technology.

At the heart of the issue is a fundamental misunderstanding by traditional automakers about the importance of software in modern vehicles. One commentator bluntly stated that companies like Ford, VW, and Nissan seem to be turning their potentially sophisticated electric vehicles into "unusable junk" through poor software design.

The problem isn't just limited to mobile apps. Users are increasingly frustrated with touchscreen interfaces that bury critical functions like defrosting, and manufacturers who seem more interested in protecting proprietary systems than creating user-friendly experiences. Some companies, like Chevrolet, are starting to adopt more open approaches by running Android with custom additions.

Developers and tech enthusiasts are taking matters into their own hands, creating workarounds and custom solutions. From building home screen widgets for battery monitoring to elaborate systems that emulate and parse app data, these DIY solutions highlight the massive gap between what users want and what manufacturers provide.

The underlying message is clear: in the era of electric vehicles, software is no longer a secondary consideration—it's the primary differentiator. Companies like Tesla, Rivian, and Polestar are leading the way, but even they are not immune to criticism about their software execution.