Why Do People Hate Teslas? A Deep Dive into Misconceptions and Facts

Today we’re tackling a topic that has stirred quite a bit of controversy: the widespread disdain for Tesla cars. If you’re a Tesla owner or enthusiast, you might have encountered this negativity. But if you’re a Tesla hater, this blog is especially for you. Let’s sit down and have an open conversation to understand why there’s so much hate for Teslas and dispel some myths along the way.

Common Misconceptions About Tesla Vehicles

Many critics seem to have never driven or even been inside a Tesla. Their reasons for disliking these cars often stem from misinformation. Here are some of the common misconceptions:

1. Range Anxiety:

One frequent complaint is the fear of running out of charge and being stranded. However, with over 50,000 superchargers and 60,000 normal EV chargers across the U.S., plus the car’s reserve battery power and alerts on when and where to charge, this fear is largely unfounded.

2. Safety Concerns:

There are rumors that Teslas randomly catch fire or explode. The truth is, Teslas are significantly less likely to catch fire than gas-powered cars. In 2020, gas vehicles were involved in 15% of the 1.4 million fires in the U.S., whereas EV fires accounted for just 0.02% of the total.

Features and Benefits of Owning a Tesla

Let’s go beyond the myths and look at what Teslas actually offer:

1. Ease of Access:

Unlike traditional cars, Teslas can be unlocked and started using just your phone or Apple Watch. No more fumbling with keys! If your phone dies, the backup is right on your wrist. In a parking lot and it’s raining? No problem. You can summon your car to come to you.

2. Autopilot and Safety:

Tesla’s autopilot feature is statistically safer than human drivers, being 10 times less likely to get into accidents. The car also features 8 cameras that provide a live feed to your mobile app, enhancing security. When engaged in autopilot, Tesla can take exits, switch lanes, and stop at lights, all while requiring you to keep your eyes on the road.

3. Entertainment and Comfort:

Teslas come equipped with the ability to stream Netflix, play video games, browse the internet, and more. The interior is designed for maximum comfort with features like a minimalist dashboard, ventilated seating, and a full glass roof. You can even activate dog mode to keep your pet safe and cool while you’re away.

4. Environmental Impact:

While critics argue about the environmental costs of lithium mining, they often overlook their own use of lithium-powered devices. Moreover, Tesla’s use of LFP (lithium iron phosphate) batteries is a step towards more sustainable electric cars.

5. Maintenance and Reliability:

Teslas require minimal maintenance. There are no oil changes, and regenerative braking reduces wear on brake pads. Consumer Reports have rated Teslas more reliable than many traditional luxury brands. If an issue arises, Tesla service can come to your house to fix it.

Economic Advantages

Owning a Tesla can save you money in the long run. Here’s how:

1. Cost of Charging vs. Gas:

Charging a Tesla is significantly cheaper than fueling a gas-powered car. Most Tesla owners charge at home, waking up every day with a full battery. Charging stations are mainly used on long trips, which cost less than gas, and the charging time often coincides with a break for a meal or a restroom stop.

2. Maintenance Savings:

Without engines, Teslas avoid many common maintenance costs like oil changes and filter replacements. The most frequent upkeep is a simple tire rotation every 6,250 miles.

3. Insurance:

Tesla cars rank as the fifth most affordable to insure, thanks to their advanced safety features.

4. Value Retention:

Unlike most cars, Teslas can appreciate in value. For example, the average price of a Model S increased by over 70% between 2012 and 2017.

Performance and Innovation

Tesla’s performance often leaves traditional sports cars in the dust. For instance, the Model S Plaid can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 1.99 seconds, outperforming cars that cost significantly more. Additionally, Teslas receive over-the-air updates that continually improve their functionality and performance, keeping the car feeling new.

Safety Excellence

Tesla cars have received a full five-star rating in every category from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The unique design without an engine in the front allows for better impact absorption in crashes. Additionally, the low center of gravity due to the battery placement reduces rollover risk to just 8%, and the robust roof can withstand six times its own weight.

Quality and Customization

While Tesla has faced criticism for build quality, this has significantly improved over time. Newer models show fewer issues with panel gaps and inconsistencies. If any problems are found during delivery, they are promptly addressed. Moreover, Teslas offer numerous customization options to enhance both aesthetics and functionality, easily available at sites like Accessories for Tesla.

Final Thoughts

To sum up, the dislike for Teslas often stems from misconceptions and a lack of firsthand experience. If you’re a skeptic, I encourage you to give a Tesla a try. Use our referral code for a free 30-minute demo drive. If you decide to purchase one, you’ll get six months of free supercharging and three months of full self-driving.

I hope this post has helped clear up some of the misinformation about Tesla vehicles. If you enjoyed it, please share it with others and consider subscribing for more content. Until next time, stay informed and drive safe!