What I've Learned from 18 Months of Tesla Model 3 Ownership

💡The heater, not the air conditioning, significantly affects battery efficiency in cold weather.

👻Phantom drain is a common occurrence in EVs, and leaving your car unused for an extended period can result in a significant reduction in battery charge.

🔌Keeping your Model 3 plugged in at all times is recommended, as it ensures you have enough charge and reduces range anxiety.

📅Plan ahead for insurance, electricity tariffs, MOTs, and repairs as these processes can take time for EVs.

⚡️The advertised range of the Tesla Model 3 is based on a full battery depletion, but it is recommended to keep the battery between 20% and 80% to prolong its lifespan.

Does using the air conditioning affect the range?

—No, the heater has a more significant impact on battery efficiency in cold weather.

What is phantom drain?

—Phantom drain is the gradual loss of battery charge when the EV is not in use due to background electronics running.

Should I keep my Model 3 charging all the time?

—Yes, keeping the Model 3 plugged in ensures you always have enough charge and reduces range anxiety.

What should I consider when owning an EV?

—Plan ahead for insurance, electricity tariffs, MOTs, and repairs, as these processes can take longer for EVs.

Does the advertised range of the Model 3 reflect real-world driving?

—The advertised range is based on full battery depletion, but it is recommended to keep the battery between 20% and 80% for better long-term battery health.

00:24EV ownership is still niche, but with the growing popularity of electric vehicles, it's becoming more viable for many people.

01:48The heater, not the air conditioning, affects battery efficiency in cold weather. Consider this when calculating your running and charging costs for winter.

03:06Phantom drain is the gradual loss of battery charge when the EV is not in use. It is normal for all EVs and can be affected by cold weather and background electronics.

04:11Keeping your Model 3 plugged in at all times is recommended. This ensures you have enough charge and reduces range anxiety.

06:57Plan ahead for insurance, electricity tariffs, MOTs, and repairs, as these processes can take time for EVs.

07:26The advertised range of the Tesla Model 3 is based on full battery depletion. To prolong the battery's lifespan, it is recommended to keep it between 20% and 80%.

09:21The top thing I wish I knew before owning a Model 3 is that I should have done it sooner. The driving experience and benefits of owning an electric car outweigh any concerns.

10:50Tesla offers a comprehensive charging network with superchargers across the country, making longer journeys more manageable.