The Dark Side of Owning an Electric Car: A Traveler's Experience

The allure of owning an electric car is undeniable, but preparing for the practicalities and real-world experiences often comes as a surprise to many potential buyers. In this article, we delve into the not-so-enlightening truths about owning an electric car, particularly through the lens of a long distance road trip from Denver, Colorado to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, using a 2018 Tesla Model 3 AWD Long Range.

Unforeseen Challenges

A journey of 3,400 miles was planned, with expected benefits of a modern electric vehicle, but the trip unveiled a series of unexpected challenges.

Windshield Cracks

One of the most surprising issues was encountering rock chips on the windshield. This is a common problem in regions with harsh climates, especially in Colorado. Despite this, the crack spread and required a significant repair cost. The insurance cost amounted to $1,800, a stark contrast to the initial expectations of owning an electric vehicle.

Supercharging Costs and Efficiency

To address the travel needs, the use of Tesla's superchargers was considered. However, the price of supercharging was surprisingly steep. When compared to renting a Toyota Camry, the cost of supercharging was nearly $15 more per charge. Additionally, the efficiency of the superchargers differed between V2 and V3 models. The V3 Superchargers, supposed to be the latest in technology, had varying charging capacities during the charging process, leading to inefficient charging times. The V2 Superchargers, although rated lower, performed more consistently, leading to faster charging times and overall better performance.

Autopilot and Phantom Braking

The Autopilot feature, known for its advanced capabilities, also had its drawbacks. During the trip, we experienced phantom braking and the Autopilot was unable to handle construction zones, leading to a reliance on Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC).

Comfort and Safety

A key consideration for longer trips involves comfort and safety. Setting up the car for napping while driving was an interesting experiment, but the fat, stiff suspension of the Tesla Model 3 made it nearly impossible. Both me and my wife found sleeping in the back of the car uncomfortable, likening the experience to sleeping in a paint shaker. This was a significant factor in considering the overall comfort levels on such a trip.

Windshield Wipers and Safety

Another nightmarish element was the reliance on a passenger to operate the windshield wipers, particularly during a thunderstorm. The auto wipers were significantly inadequate in such conditions, and the wiper setting options were buried in a secondary menu, making it unsafe to navigate while adjusting settings. This poor design poses a significant risk to nighttime driving in bad weather.

Concluding Thoughts: The True Value of an Electric Car

While the primary advantage of owning an electric car is local driving, with costs virtually negated, an important factor is the use of superchargers and other charging networks during long road trips. These experiences, from windshields to wipers, highlight the downsides of depending on such networks.

Our journey taught us that the practical realities of owning a Tesla, while still valuable, must be carefully considered before making a significant investment. For those who value a frictionless driving experience, the need for passenger intervention and the potential for discomfort during road trips might be a deal-breaker.