Elon's public image has really smeared the public perception on Tesla vehicles.
So far, many say:
- The EV space is so much more competitive
- Tesla interiors suck. And man, those panel gaps!
- FSD is a complete lie
I love cars, and here's an (unbiased) take on Teslas. 🧵
Why are Teslas so hyped anyway?
Tesla built the world's first sexy usable EV. With a sprawling supercharging network, record-setting acceleration, a generational shift in car software, and fun quirky features, Tesla made EVs desirable with the Model S in 2013.
What's good about a Tesla? #1
- Lower depreciation and high re-sale value
- Ubiquitous supercharging network
- Best-in-class range, for similar price points
- Best-in-class software and a really nice app
- Best-in-class acceleration is fun to show off
What's good about a Tesla? #2
- Quirky features: farts, games, romance mode, etc.
- Full-self driving isn't here but autopilot is more reliable than most cruise control in other cars
- Tesla Insurance undercuts Geico etc but uses your data
- They look fantastic!
What's good about a Tesla? #3
- Safety: fantastic in crash tests, will semi-force seatbelts on, will smartly take over before collision (has helped me a lot), sentry mode security!
- EV benefits: cheaper to drive, charge at home, can last 400k+ miles, less servicing
What's bad about a Tesla? #1
- Service: parts are expensive and out of stock. Service times are slow. Shops are booked out and can't meet demand.
- Fit and finish: Although panel gaps seem resolved, interiors aren't luxury.
What's bad about a Tesla? #2
- EV cons: charging at home is a must, road trips need planning, real-life range is much less on uphills or in the cold
- Handling: it feels solid and heavy, but doesn't drive like a Porsche / Beamer.
- Suspension: you really feel the bumps.
I crashed a Model S and had to decide on another car to buy. I don't have a charger at home, so the range anxiety was my biggest con. I thought about going gas, test drove a Range Rover and a Beamer but I couldn't make the jump.
The automatic safety features, the autopilot, the boot size, and having an app tell you where you parked is, range, sentry and more ended up sealing the deal for me.
I prefer the sexy look, performance, safety and software over fit and finish.
Of course, everyone has their own constraints when it comes to cars but I think Teslas are a fantastic vehicle purchase and I don't regret it at all!
If you buy Used, the prices are phenomenal right now.