^^i'm assuming that was a joke?

they seem standard on all candian cars. i think it's optional on u.s. models.

 

This was a very ammusing post to read...because I am from Canada.
To clarify what the electrical cord is:
It is how you plug in the block heater. The block heater is standard in candaian cars but probably not even an option anywhere else. It simply helps warm up the engine when it gets very cold. This makes starting the engine easier, and easier on the car itself on startup. IT DOESNT DO ANYTHING ELSE.
I personnally dont use it unless you park outside in weather that is colder than -25C or -30F....very cold....If it is any warmer there is no need to use the heater unless its parked outside for extended periods of time in moderatly cold weather.
If you want you can go under the hood and coil up the cord and attach it somewhere out of the way so you cannot see it through the grill.(As I have done)
Hope this clears the air.

 

In the US we just Pee on the engine bay to warm it up