Electric vehicles (EVs) have a reputation for being disposable and rapidly depreciating, but this couldn't be further from the truth! Today, we're diving into the story of a Tesla Model 3 owner who has shattered expectations, reaching an incredible 360,000 miles on his car.
The Myth of EV Disposability: Busted!
While the used EV market is influenced by various factors, including new vehicle price cuts, the idea that battery-powered cars have a short lifespan is a misconception. TikTok user @300k.mile.tesla is living proof of this, as he documents his 2018 Tesla Model 3 Long Range journey.
A Milestone Moment: 360,000 Miles and Counting
In a recent video, this Tesla owner captured the exact moment his car hit the 360,000-mile mark, an achievement that dwarfs the average modern vehicle's lifespan of 200,000 miles. But here's where it gets controversial: some folks still question the longevity of EV batteries.
Addressing Battery Concerns
Anticipating these questions, the TikToker addressed the elephant in the room - battery health. He revealed that he replaced his battery at 321,000 miles, sourcing it from a third-party called Donut Auto Parts in California. The cost? A mere $5,000, which is significantly lower than official service center prices.
The Power of Third-Party Solutions
With the growing number of EVs on the road, third-party shops have emerged, offering battery replacement and repair services at much lower costs. Recurrent Auto reports that swapping out a Tesla battery at an official service center can cost a whopping $15,000 to $22,000. However, experienced battery specialists can replace individual cells, as demonstrated by a man who repaired his 2014 Model S for half the price of a used Model S at the time.
A Smooth Ride, Despite the Hiccups
While @300k.mile.tesla has had his fair share of issues, like warning notices and disabled features, he's managed to overcome them. In one instance, a simple tire swap resolved his cruise control and automatic hold issues.
So, is 360,000 miles the new norm for EVs? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's spark a discussion on the future of EV longevity!
