The Number One Reason People Do Not Like Tesla

If you have been following me, you know that I primarily cover the Toyota Prius and other hybrid vehicles. Something that many do not know about me is that I am also following the EV and FCHV market very carefully as well.

I believe that we are heading into a new world of transportation in a speedy way. Staying involved with what is coming allows me to give accurate information to all of my readers and speculate what is going to happen.

My latest adventure took me into the Tesla world with a Model 3 Dual-Motor Performance. I had been in Tesla cars before, but this time it was different. It put me in deep thought of why people could dislike Tesla, and then it dawned on me why.

My Tesla Experience
I had literally just met Kevin that day. All I knew about him is that he owned two Tesla Model 3, one of them being the performance model, and he has a fresh job. Other than that, we shared almost nothing in common, and the last thing I ever expected happened. He let me drive his car to dinner.

I have been in the Model S and other Model 3, but I had never been in his car and had surely never driven a Tesla. Most owners that I have driven with were very protective of their cars and wanted to show them off while they drove. Kevin was the opposite; he wanted me to drive and experience the new ultimate driving machine (Sorry, BMW, you can no longer make that claim).

I hopped in with Kevin in the front passenger seat, and he coached me through the basics of getting settled, then we headed off. The 3 was in hold mode, which allowed me to completely control throttle response and most of the braking from the accelerator pedal. It was strange at first but took very little time to adapt to it.

We wove through the neighborhood and headed towards one of the longer stretches of road. Once we could take on some speed, I was persuaded to floor it, and what came next sent every sense in my body into a full euphoria of complete ecstasy and excitement.

I wholeheartedly believe that in this day and age, driving a Tesla is the equivalent of jumping into hyperspace like on Star Wars. Everything became a blur as I was thrown deep into the plush vegan leather seats. My heart was racing, the first time in years, I was excited to drive, but the adventure did not stop there.

We still had quite a few miles to cover, and Kevin let me know it was okay to drive the 3 as it was intended. I will tell you I had no shame obliterating people in other cars off the line, grinning ear to ear the entire way. Was there anything that could make this car better? Yes, there were several things.

When we came to a cruising road, it was time for cruise control and auto-steer to do their job. Again, never having done this before, I was apprehensive about it, but why? It was a new and unfamiliar experience for me; that is why.

The auto-driving features worked terrifically; I could enjoy a conversation with the others in the car, all while getting to my destination safely. Later on, dove into some of the other features of the vehicle. We toyed around with the voice commands and some of the "easter egg" features of the car.

The overall experience was like a day at the racetrack and spa. I felt excited and refreshed all at the same time. It was the jubilation of the body, mind, and soul. It was the absolute best driving experience I have ever had in a vehicle, and I have driven over 100 different sports cars, pickups, and SUVs.

Why Do People Dislike This Amazing Machine?
Driving and fully experiencing a Tesla in that way got me thinking of how people could dislike these cars. It was then it dawned on me why. Those who do not like Tesla have never driven or owned one. It is that simple.

Are there other reasons for people not liking Tesla, sure. I know there are people out there who do not like having to put tires on it, or there are people who hate to charge it. Others nitpick about all sorts of things, but honestly, anything can.

Maybe you do not like Elon Musk, so what, the car is still phenomenal. Perhaps you think or that technology is aiding to the slow demise of human civilization. Whatever it is, we can agree there will always be opposition.

Conclusion
First off, a huge thank you to my new friend Kevin for letting me drive your Tesla. It was astounding, and I really appreciate it. Second, hate Tesla all you want, but do not be a jealous hater because you have never driven or owned one. Drive one, and then we can talk.

Have a great day, everyone. I hope you are all safe out there. I look forward to seeing you in the next story. What To Do With A Generation 2 Toyota Prius Mysterious Engine Knock.

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Peter Neilson is an automotive consultant specializing in electric cars and hybrid battery technologies. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Automotive Service Technology from Weber State University. Peter is also an Instructor of Automotive Technology at Columbia Basin College. Peter can be reached on Linkedin and you can tweet him at The_hybrid_guy on Twitter. Find his page on Facebook at Certified Auto Consulting. Read more of Peter's stories at Toyota news coverage on Torque News. Search Toyota Prius Torque News for more in depth Prius coverage from our reporters.