[masklinn]

> Total energy spent on moving an object by a distance is still proportional to the mass of the object.

It is not. The energy spent to change momentum is proportional to mass. For mass to affect momentum you need a second order effect linking it to increased system losses e.g. a heavier plane needs more lift, which requires higher speeds, higher angle of attack, larger lifting surfaces, …, all of which increase drag, which is the primary way planes lose energy.

> Rivian an electric car company admits that towing will reduce your range. There’s a reason for that.

The reason is the increased resistances (air and rolling) from the trailer: https://youtu.be/UmKf8smvGsA