Tesla recently introduced a new program called Demo Drive, where customers are offered the opportunity to experience owning an electric vehicle (EV) like the new Model Y for a weekend. As someone living in a townhouse without charging infrastructure, this experience provided valuable insights into EV ownership.
The weekend began with picking up the Model Y from a local showroom, and the first order of business was to showcase the Full Self-Driving (FSD) feature to family and friends. The reactions were overwhelmingly positive, especially from skeptics who were initially hesitant about autonomous driving technology.
One of the biggest concerns I had about owning an EV was the lack of charging infrastructure in my neighborhood. However, driving the Long Range All-Wheel-Drive Model Y, which boasts a range of 327 miles, alleviated those worries. Despite not having access to home charging, the car’s impressive range meant that regular visits to a Supercharger would suffice.
The FSD feature was a game-changer during the weekend, with the car autonomously handling most of the driving tasks. While parking lots proved to be a weak point for FSD, overall, the experience was smooth and stress-free. The ability to navigate busy highways and merge seamlessly into traffic showcased the technology’s potential.
After a series of successful FSD demonstrations, including navigating challenging off-ramps and parking lots, it was evident that the Model Y was a top contender for a future purchase. The convenience of FSD, coupled with novel features like watching YouTube in the car and playful functionalities like the Fart on Contact feature, made the weekend a memorable one.
In conclusion, the Demo Drive experience with the new Model Y was a resounding success. The concerns about residential charging were dispelled, and the allure of FSD as a driving aid was undeniable. As I look towards a potential trade-in for an EV in the coming months, the weekend with the Model Y has solidified its place as a top contender. It was truly a great weekend with the new Model Y, and I look forward to potentially owning one in the future.