As the U.S. reopens the economy, many people will be out and about. But one key trend is here to stay: consumers will still likely avoid public transit. Many Americans are still hesitant to go back to riding the bus or train. Those who have managed to survive through the pandemic with stable income may even consider buying a new car for improved mobility. The question now is will they go for a gas or electric car?
Traditional carmakers will likely offer sweet deals to sell more as they reopen their business and bounce back from the financial setbacks last year. But what about the dramatic improvement in air quality experienced by major cities in last year’s series of lockdowns? Do you want to go back driving along the roads of a smoggy city? Although it has taken millions of lives across the globe, the COVID-19 pandemic somehow offers an opportunity for our society to reset—to change the way we shop, live, and even drive.
Many electric vehicles are available in the market today. Understandably, Tesla will be the first thing you’ll think of when you hear about sustainable cars. But keep in mind the brand comes with pros and cons.
The Best Things About Driving a Tesla
No more gas-pumping
Bid goodbye to all the gas-filling stations forever. With a Tesla, you don’t only lower your carbon footprint but also your gas expenses. With 100 miles using 34kWh and electricity prices at around 12 cents per kWh, the cost of driving a Tesla for 15,000 miles in a year will only be $612. Compare that to driving a gas vehicle that runs on 30 miles per gallon, and the average gas cost is $2.40 per gallon. At 15,000 miles, a gas-powered car will cost you around $1,200. You could save almost half when you switch to an electric car.
Innovative technology
Tesla features impressive battery and powertrain systems, but the company also gets the small things right, such as its smartphone app and software updates. You won’t have to do anything to get those upgrades as they will be over-the-air updates. You can wake up one day and decide to go to the park or go on grocery shopping—and find yourself sitting in an improved car.
Elegant design
Tesla cars are the best-looking electric vehicles on the market today. Particularly, Model 3 is elegant, sleek, and minimalist. The notable car features include a continuous glass roof and a “mouthless” front fascia. Own a Tesla, and you won’t get tired of staring and admiring your car whenever you need to ride it.
Advanced automotive services
You’ll find plenty of auto repair companies for Porsche, BMW, Mercedes, and other luxury car brands. The same goes for Tesla. There are around a hundred Tesla service centers across the US. The company also provides over-the-air updates to continuously improve Tesla car technology.
If you ever need repair service, you can go to a nearby Tesla service center. The service is often quick and seamless. Another thing that sets Tesla’s auto services apart is the company’s mobile service. They can send a mobile service technician wherever you are in the US. That’s super convenient.
The Disadvantages of Owning a Tesla
High upfront cost
Tesla is not super expensive, but the mass-market model, the Model 3, still has a steep price. It costs more than double the price of the least expensive gas sedan on the market today. But you can recover that upfront cost over the years through gas savings and low maintenance costs since you do not need to worry about fluid leaks, oil changes, or worn belts. Plus, as mentioned, Tesla provides over-the-air updates to ensure the electric technology and other digital features of your car are always in optimal condition.
Not suitable for road trips
Tesla boasts a Supercharger network across the US that makes long road trips possible. But even when you’re plugging your Tesla into a fast charger, each recharge of a Tesla car may last an hour or two. That can gravely affect your road trip schedule. If you plan to have a cross-country trip to celebrate the end of the pandemic, you might have to rethink bringing a Tesla with you.
Opportunities to change the status quo don’t come along very often. Even if only one or two in 10 new car buyers in the coming years shifted to electric, it would have a huge impact on the environment and society. So, if you have plans to improve your mobility in the post-COVID world, consider a Tesla.
