Introduction
In a remarkable showcase of durability and efficiency, a 2021 Tesla Model 3 Standard Plus has reached an astounding milestone of 410,000 kilometers (approximately 254,000 miles) on its original battery and motor, while still retaining about 90% of its battery health. This significant achievement has garnered global attention, particularly within the electric vehicle (EV) community, highlighting the longevity and reliability of Tesla's technology.
The Model 3, which is powered by a 60 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, has been in active service as a rideshare vehicle through the Uber platform in Western Australia. This extensive usage not only demonstrates the vehicle's capabilities but also offers a glimpse into the potential cost savings associated with electric vehicles compared to traditional petrol cars.
The Journey of a Long-Term Model 3
The impressive journey of this Model 3 began with its acquisition as a rideshare vehicle, where it has been consistently utilized for various passenger transport services. According to Edi Gutmanis, the owner of EV Workz, a specialist in electric vehicles based in Port Kennedy, the car's Battery Management System (BMS) indicates a State of Health ranging from 88% to 90%. This statistic is particularly noteworthy, as it showcases the resilience of EV batteries under real-world operating conditions.
On August 8, Gutmanis shared the findings on the Facebook group "Electric Vehicles For Australia," and the post quickly went viral, capturing the interest of many EV enthusiasts and skeptics alike. The data revealed that the vehicle's charging history includes 15,556 kWh delivered via DC fast charging, which accounts for 29% of the total, and 38,012 kWh via AC charging, which constitutes 71% of the total charging.
Calculating Fuel Savings
One of the most compelling aspects of this Model 3's journey is the financial comparison between electric and petrol vehicles. Gutmanis provided a detailed breakdown of the fuel savings that the Tesla has achieved. For a petrol car traveling the same distance of 410,000 kilometers at a consumption rate of 7 liters per 100 kilometers, the fuel costs would be approximately AU$50,000, assuming a fuel price of $1.70 per liter.
In contrast, the costs associated with charging the Tesla at average commercial rates would amount to about AU$20,737. Even more impressive is the potential cost if the vehicle were charged using Western Australia's EV tariff, which would bring the total down to around AU$13,000. This results in a staggering potential refueling savings of approximately AU$37,000, not factoring in the additional savings from avoided maintenance costs typically associated with internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.
A Simple Fix for Longevity
While the Model 3 has proven to be a reliable vehicle in terms of battery life and operational efficiency, it did encounter a minor issue during its extensive journey. The car was brought into EV Workz due to a driveline "judder" issue, which was initially concerning for the owner. However, Gutmanis quickly identified the source of the problem as worn motor mount bushes rather than a more serious mechanical failure.
With just seven hours of labor and a parts cost of $130, Gutmanis was able to restore the vehicle to its original driving condition. He remarked, "the car drives just as good as the first day it left the dealership," emphasizing the ease of maintenance and repair for electric vehicles compared to traditional petrol vehicles.
Industry Perspectives on EV Longevity
Gutmanis, who has experience not only in servicing Tesla vehicles but also in converting classic cars and 4x4s to electric, expressed that the longevity exhibited by this Model 3 is not unexpected. "We expect this sort of longevity with EV batteries," he stated, reflecting a broader industry perspective that anticipates significant lifespan potential for electric vehicle batteries, especially as technology continues to improve.
This specific Model 3 represents the highest mileage of any Model 3 Gutmanis has encountered in Australia, further reinforcing the idea that electric vehicles can indeed meet and even exceed the expectations of their owners in terms of durability and efficiency.
The Future of Electric Vehicles
The story of this Tesla Model 3 serves as an important case study for the electric vehicle market, particularly as consumers become more concerned with the longevity and reliability of EV technology. As more vehicles like this Model 3 emerge, the narrative surrounding electric vehicles will continue to evolve, with a growing emphasis on their practicality and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional vehicles.
As the world moves toward a more sustainable future, the performance and dependability of electric vehicles will play a critical role in shaping public perception and acceptance. This Model 3's achievement not only contributes to the growing body of evidence supporting the viability of electric cars but also sets a benchmark for future developments in battery technology and electric mobility.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Tesla Model 3 that has surpassed the quarter million mile mark with its original battery and motor stands as a testament to the remarkable engineering and design of electric vehicles. With significant savings in fuel costs, minimal maintenance issues, and impressive battery longevity, this Model 3 exemplifies the potential benefits of transitioning to electric for both individual consumers and the environment.
As we look ahead, it is clear that the success of such vehicles will continue to inspire confidence in the electric vehicle market, paving the way for further innovations and advancements in sustainable transportation.
