While I will agree that an iPad is not an efficient replacement for a laptop, I think $1,000 is worth the efficiency lost over the course of one day. After all you did leave the laptop home for the trip, so on previous days it was good enough.
And that is why you buy a Tesla! Nissan Leaf is a fantastic EV but for city use only. I know, I have owned one. Going on a long trip? Get either a gas car or a Tesla that can give you a true, highway, couple hundred miles of range with a 30 minute charge.