I Finally Got a Tesla and It Scares the Crap Out of Me

Scotty Kilmer

Scotty Kilmer

14 min, 37 sec

An in-depth review of a Tesla Model 3, discussing its performance, cost, features, and comparison with other vehicles.

Summary

  • The reviewer tests a dual motor Model 3 extended range bought for $43,000 and compares it with traditional cars.
  • Discusses the high cost of maintenance, such as tire wear, and additional charges for unlocking existing car features.
  • Highlights the improvements in fit and finish over previous models, and the minimalist interior design with a central screen control.
  • The car's acceleration and handling are praised, but the review criticizes the charging time on a regular outlet and the higher insurance rates for electric vehicles.
  • Suggests considering used electric vehicles for better deals and the importance of having them checked by a mechanic before purchase.

Chapter 1

Introduction to the Tesla Model 3

0:00 - 19 sec

Introduction to the reviewed Tesla Model 3 with its purchase background and price comparison to the owner's previous vehicle.

Introduction to the reviewed Tesla Model 3 with its purchase background and price comparison to the owner's previous vehicle.

  • The Tesla Model 3 was purchased for $43,000 by a young man with bad credit, cheaper than his previous $60,000 Sonata.
  • The Model 3 is a dual motor, extended range version.

Chapter 2

Tesla's Market Strategy and Tire Wear

0:38 - 27 sec

Discussion on Tesla's pricing strategy and the rapid tire wear associated with the Model 3's performance.

Discussion on Tesla's pricing strategy and the rapid tire wear associated with the Model 3's performance.

  • Tesla has dropped prices to increase sales, a shift from the high demand and over-list pricing during the pandemic.
  • The Model 3's tires, especially on the dual motor version, wear out three times faster than normal cars due to weight and torque.

Chapter 3

Performance and Feature Costs

1:33 - 48 sec

The reviewer addresses the performance and the additional costs for unlocking the car's full potential.

The reviewer addresses the performance and the additional costs for unlocking the car's full potential.

  • The Model 3's acceleration has been upgraded from 0 to 60 in 4.2 seconds to 3.6 seconds after a paid update.
  • Criticism arises from the necessity to pay an additional $2,000 for a software unlock that improves performance.

Chapter 4

Fit and Finish Quality

2:23 - 20 sec

The reviewer examines the Tesla's fit and finish, noting improvements over earlier models.

The reviewer examines the Tesla's fit and finish, noting improvements over earlier models.

  • The panel alignment on the Model 3 has improved, indicating better quality control compared to older models.

Chapter 5

Interior Design and Mechanic's Critique

2:44 - 42 sec

A critique of the Tesla's interior design and the inconvenience faced by mechanics due to its design.

A critique of the Tesla's interior design and the inconvenience faced by mechanics due to its design.

  • The interior is minimalist with a large central screen that controls most functions and lacks a traditional instrument cluster.
  • Accessing diagnostic ports is a hassle for mechanics, requiring an adapter and a waiting period before the scan tool can be connected.

Chapter 6

Pollution and Environmental Impact

5:27 - 58 sec

The reviewer discusses the indirect environmental impact of electric vehicles, focusing on tire wear and water pollution.

The reviewer discusses the indirect environmental impact of electric vehicles, focusing on tire wear and water pollution.

  • While electric cars do not emit air pollution, they contribute to water pollution through micro-particle tire wear.
  • The Model 3's heavy weight leads to quicker tire wear, which in turn increases the micro-particle pollution.

Chapter 7

Driving Experience and Autopilot Features

7:06 - 1 min, 6 sec

The reviewer shares the driving experience with the Tesla's autopilot and backup camera features.

The reviewer shares the driving experience with the Tesla's autopilot and backup camera features.

  • The driving experience is enhanced by the car's quick acceleration and quiet ride.
  • The car's autopilot system offers lane assist and parking features, including a high-quality backup camera.

Chapter 8

Charging Infrastructure and Costs

8:31 - 42 sec

Insights into the Tesla's charging process, infrastructure, and associated costs.

Insights into the Tesla's charging process, infrastructure, and associated costs.

  • Charging can be done for free or at a cost depending on the location, with home charging being convenient but time-consuming on standard outlets.
  • Superchargers can charge the car in about 40-45 minutes, but home charging may take over 24 hours on a 110V outlet.

Chapter 9

Ownership Advantages and Considerations

9:13 - 2 min, 16 sec

The review covers the advantages of owning a Tesla Model 3 and various considerations for potential buyers.

The review covers the advantages of owning a Tesla Model 3 and various considerations for potential buyers.

  • The owner enjoys a relatively low monthly payment for the car and minimal driving requirements.
  • The review suggests the possibility of getting a used electric vehicle for a better deal and the importance of pre-purchase inspections.

Chapter 10

Conclusion and Recommendations

11:29 - 3 min, 6 sec

The reviewer concludes with recommendations for potential electric car buyers and considerations about the current market.

The reviewer concludes with recommendations for potential electric car buyers and considerations about the current market.

  • Recommendation to maintain a two-car household if considering an electric vehicle for practicality.
  • Advice on insurance and repair costs, and the suggestion to consider a used electric car for better value.

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