Living With A Tesla

I purchased my Tesla Model 3 (Performance) earlier this year, taking delivery on the last day of February. After driving it daily for the past three months I am ready to describe life with this exciting but controversial car. To summarize, I have been nothing but impressed and excited.

When asked about the car, something I have gotten used to over the past few months, my initial comparison to owning the next generation iPhone, a few months before its actually released to the public. Every time I drive my Tesla I feel like I am part of a secret that everyone else will learn soon. The interior is clean, sleek and modern without the clutter of multiple gauges, dials and buttons. The central focus of the inside of the car is the iPad like display, which is the control center of the car. Here is where you choose your music, adjust the climate, and navigate your trip. As well, the left side of the screen is your car’s avatar, showing you where you are in your lane and what cars are in your vicinity. It may sound like a source of potential distraction, but it quickly fades into the background as a simple tool to use when needed.

The iPhone comparison continues with the software that runs the Tesla. Over the past three months my car has had about four or five updates that load wirelessly in about thirty minutes. This has resulted in increased battery range and efficiency, a new camera-centric security system, pet-based climate control among other improvements to the Tesla experience. These give you the sense you are driving something that is constantly up to date, modern and refreshed.

But what is it like to drive? Well, even after three months, pulling out of the driveway is exciting, as I experience the seamless acceleration, absent any shifting jerks or rumbles common to all non-electric cars. It isn’t long before I look for reasons to test the speed of the car, something that sneaks up quickly and has led to close calls with roadside speed traps. It is simply smooth, fast and handles amazingly well. And did I mention it is fast? You Tube is filled with videos showing the ridiculous acceleration possessed by the Model 3, which doesn’t even have a Ludicrous mode like the Model S. It is nothing short of pure fun to drive.

And if you don’t want to drive in the traditional manner, you can engage Tesla’s Autopilot feature. I have only used this on a few highway trips so far, but it is clear that even paying attention and keeping your hands on the wheel with Autopilot on, my stress level was about half of what it usually is in those situations.

I refuse to be labeled a Tesla fanboy, so I will admit the Model 3 is not perfect. While the battery range is excellent, this car is not for everyone. I have a short commute and live in a moderate climate so do not expect any significant issues with range anxiety. However, I did experience diminished battery charge when it was cold, something that has to be seriously considered for those that live in cold weather states and have significant driving habits. That being said, the ease of charging overnight at home is a joy.

The Tesla Model 3 gives the driver a fun, modern car to experience that makes the daily chore of driving something to look forward to rather than dread. Oh, and it is fast.