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QOTW: Are you tempted by the Tesla Model 3?

by Parm Mann on 8 April 2016, 16:31

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Every once in a while a technologically advanced product will surface with the potential to transform an entire industry. In the motoring world, that product is arguably the Tesla Model 3.

Unveiled on March 31, 2016, the Model 3 arrived as Tesla's lowest-cost vehicle to date, with pricing starting at $35,000 and reservations open for $1,000. Not exactly pocket change, but technology fiends and motoring enthusiasts aren't deterred, with Tesla claiming a stagging 276,000 reservations within the first 72 hours.

The numbers are phenomenal and the hype alone suggest that Model 3 will be the most popular all-electric saloon car to date. Not all the reservations will translate to sales, mind, and there's still plenty of uncertainty surrounding production, as Model 3 deliveries aren't expected to begin until late 2017.

What we do know is that Model 3 will have a range of 215 miles per charge, it will do 0-60mph in under six seconds, it can house five adults, has two boots (front and back), a five-star safety rating in all categories and AutoPilot driver assistance.

A remarkable car with no shortage of question marks, so what's your take? Are you tempted? Is the jury still out on all-electric cars? Or have you already made your reservation? Let us know using the comments facility below.



HEXUS Forums :: 55 Comments

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I'm tempted, though I don't have the money since giving up my career to embark on a new one as a self-employed developer!

The main thing that attracts me is the possibility of having solar panel-driven power storage in the home, and having an electric car fits into that model beautifully. The model 3 touts decent range - probably by the time I could possibly afford the capital outlay for a more sustainable power system, the range on EVs will be much better still.

The one downside I can see so far is the potential ecological damage in the production of batteries. That should improve, too, by the time I'm anywhere near this tech, but it's a concern for the moment.
If it made it to the UK for £25000 ($35,000), and had the same level of subsidy from the UK government that the US government offers, then yes depending on the next details release in a few months.

Realistically though, when/if it reaches the UK it is more likely to retail at £35,000 as most car importers think changing currency sign is the only conversion required.
If I had the money, I would definitely entertain the option. Although with most things its not a good idea to get the first generation.
In my opinion we are literally at point where the majority of people could do the majority of their travel with an electric car, with the quick charge capable of charging 80% of the battery in 30 or less minutes, for longer journeys. Although quick charges are not good for the battery i hear.
If you take a look over at the zap-map.co.uk you will see a quite a surprisingly comprehensive coverage of charge points throughout the UK already, not all of them sub 30 minute charge points through. As well as the supercharger points Tesla have put in themselves.
I still have a few questions regarding the battery replacement costs, warranty and recycling. Because if i am realistic, a second hand Tesla Model 3 in a few years is more likely than a brand new one for me.
I was hoping that fusion technology would superseed electric motors before it had a chance to get going, but alas it looks like this isn't going to happen any time soon. Either way burning fossil fuels and to propel the millions of vehicles in the world has to stop, and the our health of children will no doubt benefit from the transformation of this industry.
That just leaves the debate on where the electricity comes from, but as soon as they crack fission nuclear reactors we will be laughing!
Roobubba
Paraphrase: Yes, but costs and environmental concerns due to batteries are current holds on doing so.

I hope you will forgive me, but that is basically my view, but put more eloquently.
Not fond of the rear end styling, but could be tempted by the technology.