Tesla owners’ message for new EV buyers
Tesla owners' message for new EV buyers
Tesla Owners Share Tips for New Electric Vehicle Owners
As the popularity of electric cars continues to grow, there is a learning curve that comes with owning one. Tesla owners, in particular, have shared some common mistakes and faux pas that new owners often make. In a series of conversations with Insider, they have highlighted the importance of Supercharger etiquette and offered other valuable tips. So, if you’re a new Tesla owner or thinking about joining the EV community, here are some things to keep in mind.
Supercharger Etiquette
One aspect that new Tesla owners should be aware of is Supercharger etiquette. Tesla’s Supercharger network is designed to provide fast charging for their vehicles, but it can get crowded, especially during peak hours. Here are a few tips to ensure a smooth charging experience:
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Don’t occupy a Supercharger stall if your car is already charged: It may seem obvious, but some new owners forget to move their fully charged vehicle, preventing others from accessing the charger. Be considerate and clear the space once your car is fully charged.
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Avoid parking in Supercharger spots if you don’t need to charge: Supercharger spots are specifically reserved for Tesla owners who need to recharge. If you don’t need to charge, find a regular parking spot to free up the Supercharger stalls for those who truly need it.
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Be mindful of charging time: Superchargers are designed for rapid charging, but they are not meant for all-day charging. Once your car reaches an acceptable charge level, it’s courteous to move your vehicle so others can use the station.
Proper Electric Car Care
Owning an electric car requires some specific care to keep it running efficiently and to extend its lifespan. Here are a few tips from experienced Tesla owners:
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Monitor your battery percentage: While Tesla provides detailed battery management systems, it’s wise to keep an eye on your battery percentage. Ideally, you should avoid letting it drop below 20% or go above 80% on a regular basis to maximize the battery’s health.
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Plan your charging stops: Before embarking on a long journey, plan your charging stops strategically. Make use of Tesla’s navigation system, which includes Supercharger locations and real-time availability, ensuring you won’t be left stranded with a low battery.
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Utilize regenerative braking: Electric cars, including Teslas, have a regenerative braking feature that converts energy back into the battery when slowing down or coasting. Make the most of this feature to extend your driving range.
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Keep your car clean: Regular car maintenance includes keeping it clean, both inside and out. This not only enhances the overall appearance but also helps to protect the car’s paint and interior surfaces.
Unexpected Headaches of Owning a Tesla
While owning a Tesla comes with many benefits, there are a few unexpected challenges that new owners might face:
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Software update surprises: Tesla is known for its over-the-air software updates, which bring new features and improvements to the car. However, these updates can sometimes disrupt the user experience or change certain settings. Be prepared for these occasional surprises and take the time to familiarize yourself with the new features.
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Adapting to the regenerative braking system: Electric vehicles use regenerative braking to recharge the battery, which means the car slows down when you release the accelerator pedal. This requires some adjustment in driving habits and anticipation of traffic flow.
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Charging infrastructure availability: Although Tesla’s Supercharger network is vast and growing, it’s essential to plan your routes and ensure that charging stations are available along the way, especially in remote areas where charging infrastructure might be limited.
Joining the electric vehicle community, and specifically becoming a Tesla owner, brings with it a unique set of challenges and experiences. By being mindful of Supercharger etiquette, taking care of your electric car, and being prepared for unexpected surprises, you can maximize the benefits of owning a Tesla and contribute to the growth of the EV community. So, buckle up and enjoy the ride!