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Dave B.
2019 Tesla Model 3 – Long Range RWD
Nelson, NH
“I fell in love with the technology, the silence, the autopilot capability, the acceleration and the very comfortable ride.”
What’s your #1 tip or piece of advice for new or prospective EV owners?
Take an extended test drive in the EV of your choice. If necessary, rent one and take a long weekend trip.
Read on to learn about Dave’s EV story – including buying, driving, owning, & charging his EV!
buying an ev
What main factors & considerations went into your decision to buy an EV?
I test drove a Tesla Model X at a Tesla sponsored Road Trip and I was hooked immediately. Then I had to wait a long 2 years for the affordable Tesla Model 3.
What factors sold you on buying an EV? Why did you pick the specific make & model of EV that you did?
I fell in love with the technology, the silence, the autopilot capability, the acceleration and the very comfortable ride. The Model 3 RWD was the most affordable Tesla available. YouTube videos taught me that even their RWD version would drive safely in snow.
driving & owning an ev
What is your favorite aspect of the EV driving experience?
The comfort and stressless long trip result of their Navigate on Autopilot software.
In a few sentences, summarize your favorite EV memory or anecdote.
Watching the smiles on the faces of all that ride or drive my Tesla.
What surprised you about owning an EV?
How relaxing it is to drive.
What is the main downside or challenge of driving or owning an EV compared to an ICE vehicle? What tricks have you developed to adapt to that challenge?
There are no Tesla stores or service centers in NH. It takes extra effort to go to Dedham MA to test drive a Tesla. Although Tesla will deliver a car to you, if you want to enjoy the pick up experience, you need to do so in New York State. The good news is all travel and overnight expenses are reimbursed by Tesla.
Charging an EV
Where do you charge your EV? Do you have an at-home charger?
A home charger is highly recommended. Although you can charge an EV using a 110V outlet, you’ll only receive about 3 miles of range per hour. A 220V EVSE can provide up to 44 miles per hour on my Tesla Model 3. Just plug it in every time you get home and it’s full every morning with up to 325 miles of range.
What are a few of your favorite charging resources you use?
In two years I’ve only charged at a remote Tesla Supercharger about 4 times. The remaining 99% of charging was done at home. Tesla has an extensive Supercharging network worldwide. Tesla operates over 23,277 Superchargers in over 2,564 stations worldwide. All their stations are incorporated into their in-car navigation so you always know where and when you need to get charged.