The Pros and Cons of Owning a Tesla for Long-Distance Travel

As someone who has driven a Tesla long distance multiple times, I can tell you that there are definite pros and cons to owning a Tesla for long-distance travel. While Tesla has made great strides in creating an electric vehicle with extended range and a vast charging network, there are still some downsides to consider.

Summary:

In this article, we will take a look at the pros and cons of owning a Tesla for long-distance travel.

Pros of Owning a Tesla for Long-Distance Travel

• Driving Experience: There's no doubt that driving a Tesla is a unique experience. The car's acceleration is instant, and it handles extremely well, making long drives more comfortable and fun.
• Range: Tesla's Model S and Model X have a range of over 300 miles on a single charge. The Model 3 has a range of up to 263 miles. The extended range means you won't have to stop as often to charge the car.
• Charging Network: Tesla has over 1,500 Supercharger Stations globally and is continuously building more. The stations can charge a Tesla from empty to around 80% in just 30-45 minutes. Tesla also has a Destination Charger program that enables partner businesses to offer charging for Tesla-driving customers.
• Over-the-Air Updates: Tesla can update the car's software over the air, which means that new features and improvements can be added without having to take the car into the dealership.
• No Gas: Owning a Tesla means you won't have to deal with gas stations or oil changes. Charging the car is convenient and done at home or at Supercharger Stations when you take long-distance trips.
• Clean Energy: Driving an electric car is better for the environment. Tesla uses solar energy and other renewable energy sources to power its charging stations, making it a sustainable mode of transportation.

Cons of Owning a Tesla for Long-Distance Travel

• Price: Teslas are expensive cars, and the higher-end models can be out of budget for many consumers.
• Charging Time: While Tesla's Supercharger Stations are convenient, charging still takes longer than filling up a gas tank. It can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour to charge a Tesla, depending on the battery level.
• Infrastructure: Although Tesla has a vast charging network, there are still parts of the country that don't have Supercharger Stations. This can make road trips more challenging, as drivers have to plan their routes carefully.
• Range Anxiety: Even with a range of over 300 miles, some drivers can experience anxiety about running out of power on a long trip. There is a fear that charging stations will be full, faulty or just too far from their intended route.
• Tax Credits: Since Teslas are electric vehicles, they qualify for federal tax credits, but the credits phase out after Tesla sells 200,000 vehicles in the U.S. The company hit that milestone in July 2018, which means that anyone buying a Tesla now won't be eligible for the full credit.

The Bottom Line

Buying a Tesla for long-distance travel comes with its share of pros and cons. The driving experience is unparalleled, the range is impressive, and the charging network is convenient. However, the car's price and charging time may be obstacles for some consumers, while others may experience range anxiety when traveling to areas with limited charging infrastructure. Ultimately, the decision to buy a Tesla comes down to personal preference and priorities. If you are looking for a high-performance electric car with an impressive range, a Tesla may be the right choice for you.

Do you own a Tesla, and if so, what has your experience been like driving long distances?