Switching from Criticizing to Advocate: My Previous Skepticism Towards EVs and ICE Vehicles Faded After Driving One, Resulting in Purchasing a Tesla Model 3. However, My Disdain for the Cybertruck Remains, as I Find Its Design Aesthetically Unpleasant.
In the ever-evolving world of automotive technology, stories of transformation are not uncommon. One such tale belongs to Andy Carswell, a person who, after being a critic of electric vehicles (EVs), has recently become a Tesla Model 3 owner.
Denis Flierl, a senior Torque News Reporter with over 30 years of experience in the automotive industry, reports on the latest news, owner stories, and provides expert analysis. Flierl's photo credit for this article is from Andy Carswell.
Andy's journey began with a test-drive of the Tesla Model Y. Impressed by its acceleration, silence, and instant torque, he found himself intrigued. After careful consideration, he decided to take the plunge and purchased a Tesla Model 3 Long Range RWD. Since then, his previous negative opinions about EVs have changed.
However, as a new Tesla owner, Andy had questions about what items he should keep in his Model 3, including a tire repair kit since it doesn't have a spare tire.
Essential Items for Tesla Model 3 Owners
For safety, convenience, and maintenance, it's advisable for Tesla owners to have certain essential items in their vehicle. These include:
Emergency Items
- A mechanical emergency trunk release tool or knowledge of how to access the interior trunk release (in case of power failure).
- A flashlight or headlamp for night emergencies or low visibility conditions.
- A first aid kit (not explicitly mentioned in search results but generally recommended for any vehicle).
- An emergency door latch cover to prevent accidental pulls on the emergency door handle but still allow quick removal if needed.
Maintenance and Protection
- All-weather floor mats to protect the interior from dirt and moisture.
- A jack pad adapter and lug nut wrench for tire changes or maintenance.
- A trunk storage bag or cargo net to organize items safely inside the trunk.
- A car trash can with garbage bags to keep the car clean.
- A paint repair kit or wheel paint refinish pen to quickly address minor cosmetic damage.
Convenience Accessories
- A wireless Magsafe mount for charging and phone holding.
- An LED puddle light or interior ambient lighting kit for better visibility and aesthetics.
- A power frunk jumper or starter cable for cases where the frunk power is dead.
These recommended items cover safety, emergency preparedness, vehicle upkeep, and user convenience. The focus on emergency releases and power backup for frunk/trunk is unique to Tesla Model 3 due to its electronic design.
Tips from the Community
Andy, like many others transitioning to EVs, has faced common challenges. To help him navigate these, he joined the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y Owners Club Facebook page to share his experiences.
Mark Brocious recommends a good-quality USB memory stick for Sentry Mode, while James Frink suggests having a charger for emergency charging situations. Scott DeLuca expresses his surprise at the ease of driving a Tesla and considers it a "commuter cheat code."
Andy, despite his initial skepticism, has now embraced the EV lifestyle. However, he continues to criticize the design of the Tesla Cybertruck.
Andy's experiences as a new EV owner serve as a testament to the transformative power of technology and the allure of the electric vehicle revolution. His story encourages others to explore electric vehicles, regardless of initial skepticism.
[1] https://www.tesla.com/support/model-3/service/emergency-release-tool [2] https://www.tesla.com/support/model-3/service/emergency-release-tool [3] https://www.tesla.com/support/model-3/service/emergency-release-tool [4] https://www.tesla.com/support/model-3/service/emergency-release-tool [5] https://www.tesla.com/support/model-3/service/emergency-release-tool
- In light of his new electric-vehicle lifestyle, Andy Carswell, after initially being a critic of electric vehicles, has adapted to the technology-driven world of automobiles by acquiring essential items for his Tesla Model 3, such as an emergency trunk release tool and an all-weather floor mat.
- As a member of the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y Owners Club Facebook page, Andy has received valuable advice from the community, with Mark Brocious suggesting a good-quality USB memory stick for Sentry Mode and James Frink recommending carrying a charger for emergency charging situations.
