The story of a used 2021 Tesla Model 3 Long Range All-Wheel Drive with 216,000 miles on the clock is a fascinating one. Despite being just three years old, this particular Model 3 has been put to the test as a taxi in the United Kingdom. The fact that it still has its original battery and electric motors is quite impressive, considering the wear and tear that comes with over 200,000 miles of driving.
The car, purchased at auction for a mere $12,000, has a few minor issues that need addressing. The parking sensor occasionally throws an error, but it seems to be an easy fix. Some suspension bushings need replacing, the rear trunk struts are showing signs of wear, and the cabin air filter has never been changed. However, overall, the interior is in great condition, with the exception of some wrinkles on the steering wheel.
One of the most impressive aspects of this Model 3 is its battery health. Despite the high mileage, the battery still retains 88% of its original capacity, according to a smartphone app and an independent state of health check. This means that the car has only lost 12% of its original range, dropping from 353 miles to 311 miles on a full charge.
In terms of charging costs, the total cost to charge the car over its lifetime amounts to $13,693 in the U.S. This includes $8,413 for AC charging at home and $5,280 for DC fast charging at Tesla’s Supercharger sites. With an operating cost of just $0.06 per mile or $6.33 per 100 miles, the Model 3 proves to be a cost-effective option compared to a traditional gas-powered vehicle like the BMW 3 Series 330i xDrive.
Overall, this high-mileage Tesla Model 3 serves as a testament to the durability and efficiency of electric vehicles. Despite its taxing taxi duties, the car has held up remarkably well and continues to provide reliable transportation with minimal maintenance costs.