Australia’s electric vehicle market soared nearly 200% in 2021, of which 10,000 were the Tesla Model 3. As the dominant EV manufacturer, buying a Tesla is a popular option for many Australians. However, if electric cars are very different from a traditional petrol engine, Tesla models are miles away from what we’re used to driving.
So, how do you make the switch to a Tesla? And how can you make sure it’s the right choice for you? Read on to discover how to buy a Tesla in 2022.
The switch to EV
Swap your old petrol-guzzling car for a fast and impressive EV. While Teslas still get you from A to B, they’re very different to drive, maintain, and charge up. Of course, swapping to an electric car is better for you and the planet. But the only natural way to understand if you can cope with the different demands is to hire a Tesla for a few days.
Here’s what you should know before you drive electric.
- Driving experience: Tesla offers a smooth and enjoyable driving experience. Many customers are surprised by the quick acceleration and impressive range – stereotypes of EVs slowing to a halt after an hours’ drive do not apply to Tesla.
- Charging: Fortunately, you can charge your Tesla at home. However, more and more supermarkets and petrol stations offer EV charging points. If you install solar panels to charge your Tesla, it will be free! According to Australia’s Electric Vehicle Council, an EV costs 4 cents per km. Comparatively, petrol cars cost 14 cents per km.
- Going green: EVs are zero-emission cars when they are charged with renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. However, even if you use fossil-fuel-burning energy to charge your Tesla, you will produce significantly less carbon dioxide.
Why buy a Tesla?
The Tesla car company boasts that their cars are the best EVs available. And it’s hard to argue with it. With everything from enhanced road safety to looking stylish, the Tesla is most people’s dream car. Here are a few things that set Tesla apart.
- The Tesla Model 3 (the most affordable model available) has an impressive range of 438km. That’s enough to power several day trips from Sydney before recharging.
- Teslas have fewer moving parts and therefore require fewer repairs. For example, the batteries are designed to last for twenty years.
- With a low centre of gravity, impact-absorbing sides, and perfect crumple zones, the Tesla is one of the safest cars in the world.
- The Tesla Model S Plaid goes from 0 to 100 kph in 2.11 seconds – a speedy acceleration.
- Teslas are incredible cars. With parking assistance to get you out of tight spots and a yoke steering wheel, you’ll have a vehicle others envy.
What Tesla models are available?
There are four main Tesla models available: the Model 3, Model S, Model X, and Model Y.
The Model 3 is the most affordable Tesla car, with prices around $63,900. It’s one of the most successful Teslas and likely one you’ll see the most of on the road. The Tesla Model S is more luxurious, with a sleek style and low design. Prices start from around $147,990.
To know which Tesla model is suitable for you, consider renting one for a few days. The only way to get comfortable with a new car is by driving it.
Try it out for a few days
To get the authentic Tesla experience, you need to try it out for a few days. Sure, Tesla dealerships offer test drives, however, returning to the Tesla showroom within just 30 minutes doesn’t provide anywhere near long enough to get to know your new car.
Teslas are complex cars. They have more than twenty features that set them apart from other vehicles. Half an hour doesn’t give you enough time to try out every aspect and you won’t get used to the practicalities of owning an EV. Instead, when you rent or test-drive a Tesla for a few days you’ll handle the charging and maintenance yourself.
Of course, Teslas do not require much management, but it’s good to understand how to look after a car before forking out the money on a significant purchase.
Speak to Tesla
Unlike other car dealers, Tesla works almost exclusively online. Sure, you can walk into a showroom and take a look at their cars. But the majority of ordering and purchasing takes place on Tesla’s website. As with any big purchase, you should speak to a Tesla advisor about the models available, additional features, and other questions.
While Tesla offers four basic models, you can customise your car to your liking. With extensive additional features, it’s best to speak to a Tesla expert about your options.
Book a test drive
Once you have settled on the car, you would like and had a few days with your Tesla of choice, speak to an advisor and schedule an appointment for test driving. Ensure you book in advance as a Tesla showroom usually only has one or two cars available and is high in demand. Your test drive is the chance to cement your decision before making the big purchase.
