On September 2nd of last year, I purchased a Tesla Model 3, and now it’s been nearly a year. Recently, I visited Tesla’s service center for maintenance, and the entire process cost me only $40, mainly for replacing the air filter. Considering it’s an all-wheel-drive model with both front and rear motors, there was no need for tire rotation, and I’ve driven about 9,000 kilometers in this year.
Surprisingly, the battery degradation has been minimal. Tesla’s service staff found this astonishing, as they claimed to have never seen a case where the battery degraded to zero within a year. I didn’t charge the battery the way Tesla officially recommends because I have a charging facility at home, and my daily commute is primarily short trips within the city. Therefore, I only charged the battery to 75%. I would recharge when the battery dropped below 10%, and during highway driving, I’d charge it to 100%, but I tried to avoid going below 20%. Every one to two months, I would perform a 100% charge. For highway charging, I used Supercharger stations.
In addition to battery degradation, I also shared my driving experience with the Tesla Model 3. I previously drove a BMW F30 328i, but I prefer the size of the Model 3. The handling and acceleration of the Model 3 Performance version are nearly unmatched in the 300,000 CNY price range. The vehicle’s initial acceleration is very quick, and it offers high precision in lane changes and turns. I usually drive in Sport mode and have gradually adapted to this state, making it feel like an extension of myself. This feeling is something my previous BMW 328i couldn’t provide. While I haven’t driven a higher-tier BMW like the M4, I estimate that it might not deliver such an immediate initial acceleration response.
On the software side, I’m not particularly satisfied with the voice control function and rarely use the navigation system, preferring to use Gaode Maps on my phone. However, the entertainment system performs well, and I frequently use Netease Cloud Music and Apple Music. The audio system in the Model 3 Performance version is superior to the standard version and meets my needs. However, like many other electric cars, the Model 3 also has some flaws, one of which is the panoramic roof. Despite installing sunshades in the summer, it still feels uncomfortable during high-speed driving and may even require a sun hat. I considered using reflective fabric, but I was concerned it might affect airflow.
Another concern is the interior quality. I find the interior’s texture to be lacking. The large screen on the dashboard is very cool, but the assembly and quality of some plastic parts make them feel somewhat cheap. However, these plastic parts are relatively easy to clean. Of course, some people may like this minimalist and modern feel, but I personally prefer cars with more luxurious interiors.
Furthermore, Tesla’s manufacturing quality seems to vary at different times and locations. Some report that their cars are flawless, while others report various issues, from rainwater leaking into the interior to doors not closing properly. I believe Tesla still has some work to do in terms of quality control, especially for a car priced around 300,000 CNY.
In summary, the Tesla Model 3 is very suitable for personal use and gives a sense of unity between the driver and the car. I recently test drove the Model X, and while its acceleration performance per 100 kilometers is similar, it’s tuned more for comfort and lacks the explosive initial acceleration of the Model 3 Performance version. The tuning of the Model 3 Performance version is truly outstanding. However, the rear seat comfort of the Model 3 is insufficient, requiring additional cushions, and the space is relatively limited. For family use, the Model Y might be a better choice.
I also learned that a new Model 3 will be launched this year, and if it includes ventilated seats, I might consider upgrading. After driving the Model 3 Performance version, I found it challenging to find alternatives for city commuting. However, after test driving the Model X, I felt that the steering wheel design was somewhat unreasonable, and the gear shifting was canceled in favor of using the screen, which wasn’t very convenient. If the new Model 3 adopts a similar design, I might consider not upgrading. I’ve driven other Tesla models, but I believe the Model 3 Performance version offers the best value for money and is a truly pure performance car without compromises. In the price range of around 300,000 CNY, I can’t find any other model, whether traditional internal combustion or other electric cars, that can replace it. Regarding energy consumption, I typically use the floor pedal, and my average consumption is 214 Wh/km. During a 400-kilometer highway drive at speeds of 120-130 km/h with the air conditioning on, I can generally complete the journey with a 15-minute mid-trip charge.
In conclusion, the Tesla Model 3 is an outstanding electric car. Its range, acceleration performance, and driving experience are all excellent. Although there are some shortcomings, I believe Tesla will continue to improve in terms of manufacturing quality and customer service. If you’re considering purchasing an electric car and are looking for excellent performance and innovative technology, the Tesla Model 3 is definitely worth considering.