Episode 472: Consumer Reports Hails Tesla’s Low Total Cost of Ownership
Aug 18, 2024
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Consumer Reports reveals that owning a Tesla can be surprisingly affordable over a decade. Exciting updates about the Cybertruck include a new cooler accessory and ongoing construction at a unique supercharger diner in Hollywood. The podcast highlights Tesla's cost advantages compared to traditional brands, emphasizing low maintenance costs. Listener feedback plays a big role, with discussions around improving the user interface and sharing test drive experiences of the new Model 3 Performance. Engage with the community for tips and insights!
Consumer Reports data reveals that Tesla owners average an impressively low total ownership cost of $4,035 over a decade.
The Cybertruck's anticipated range extender has faced delays and mixed interest, highlighting concerns about its cost and impact on functionality.
Tesla's innovative drive-in diner and supercharger concept aims to create a unique community space for EV owners during charging.
Deep dives
Cost-Effective Ownership of Teslas
Recent data from Consumer Reports reveals that owning a Tesla is remarkably affordable over a decade, costing around $4,035 on average. This figure includes only $580 in the first five years and a significant $3,455 during the latter five years. When compared to other brands, Tesla stands out as the most cost-effective, with Buick and Toyota following but at much higher costs of approximately $4,900. Notably, the steep difference in maintenance costs highlights Tesla's advantage in vehicle reliability and longevity.
Delays and Interest in Cybertruck Range Extender
The anticipated range extender for the Cybertruck has been delayed slightly, now expected to launch in early 2025 instead of late 2024. This accessory has drawn mixed interest from future Cybertruck owners, with only 6% expressing willingness to pay $16,000 for the extended range. Many voters in a recent Patreon poll cited concerns over its impact on bed space and cost, with others preferring a greater range and performance capability before committing. As more vehicles hit the road, it remains to be seen if real-world experiences will shift interest toward the range extender.
Cybertruck Accessories and Features
A new accessory listed for the Cybertruck is a cooler designed to fit into its front trunk, or 'frunk'. Made from stainless steel with high insulation, this cooler holds 56 quarts or the equivalent of 90 canned drinks, but it comes with an impressive price tag of $700. Critics suggest there may be more affordable third-party options in the future, especially since the Cybertruck itself offers built-in cooler features. Overall, while the accessory may appeal to some, others find it too expensive for what it offers.
Innovative Supercharging Experience
Tesla is nearing completion of a unique drive-in diner and supercharger location in Hollywood that will feature a restaurant and movie-viewing area for EV owners. Plans reveal a two-story restaurant with seating for over 200 diners and 45-foot outdoor LED screens for movie showings, all designed to enhance the experience of recharging vehicles. As Tesla continues to hire for positions at the diner, there's rising curiosity about the food it will offer. This initiative represents Tesla's efforts to create a community space for its customers, combining dining with electric vehicle charging.
Tesla's Legal Action Against EVject Connector
Tesla has filed a lawsuit against EVject, a company offering an aftermarket connector that allows drivers to disconnect from a supercharger without exiting their vehicles. The lawsuit argues that EVject's product poses safety risks due to its lack of over-temperature protection, which Tesla claims could result in burns or fire hazards. While some in the EV community support Tesla's action, others believe collaboration with EVject would be more beneficial. This debate highlights the ongoing tension between safety, convenience, and innovation in the electric vehicle industry, particularly regarding aftermarket accessories.
Consumer Reports offers new data that shows just how affordable Teslas are to own through the first decade of ownership, the Cybertruck gets a pricey new accessory, Tesla’s craziest new Supercharger location makes notable construction progress, and more!
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Go to xcelerateauto.com/xcare to find the extended warranty policy that's right for you and your Tesla, and don’t forget to use the discount code “Lightning” for $100 off your purchase.
P.S. Get 15% off your first order of awesome aftermarket Tesla accessories at AbstractOcean.com by using the code RTLpodcast at checkout. Grab the SnapPlate front license plate bracket for any Tesla at https://everyamp.com/RTL/ (don't forget the coupon code RTL).
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