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For many car enthusiasts, the journey from skepticism to enthusiasm often starts with a single test drive, and electric vehicles are no exception. Countless drivers who once dismissed EVs as impractical or underdeveloped have found themselves converted the moment they felt the smooth acceleration and silent power of a Tesla. That exact moment happened recently for Andy Carswell, whose experience reflects a growing trend among new Tesla owners. While scrolling through the “Tesla Model 3 and Model Y Owners Club” group on Facebook, I came across Andy’s post, where he shared that after years of being skeptical about EVs, one test drive in a Model 3 completely changed his mind. Within days, he bought his first Tesla, a 2018 Model 3 Long Range RWD, and is now asking the community what essentials he should keep in the car since his old ICE habits no longer apply.
In his words: “I’ve been curious about Teslas for a couple years now. I went car shopping with my wife and they had a Model Y that I test drove and instantly fell in love with how smooth they drove and the instant torque. A few days later I bought my first Tesla, this 2018 Model 3 Long Range RWD. I admittedly used to bash EVs. I knew there was a place for them but didn’t think technology was there yet. And support for charging to travel longer distances efficiently, and the grid being anywhere close to ready to support everyone having one like some politicians seem to want etc. But after test driving, all of that went out the window. I mean, I’ll continue to bash the Cybertruck because the thing is ugly, but so far I’m loving the 3. Besides a J1772 adapter, are there any other items I should keep in the vehicle at all times? I’m kind of lost because with my old ICE vehicles I kept jumper cables, a tool kit with basic tools to fix things on the engine, etc. Maybe a tire repair kit since they don’t have a spare, but just not sure.”
Why Tesla Test Drives Change Minds
There’s something unique about the first time you step on the accelerator of a Tesla. Unlike gas-powered cars, the torque delivery is instant. There’s no gear shifting and the ride feels smooth in a way that almost feels futuristic. Andy’s story mirrors many others, like those who say the Tesla Model 3 Performance opened their eyes and changed everything. These firsthand experiences are often more convincing than any spec sheet or sales pitch.
And Andy isn’t wrong about the doubts many people share before making the leap either. Concerns about long-distance charging and grid capacity have been heavily debated. Yet for many owners, once they experience the daily practicality of a Tesla, those worries fade into the background. After all, most charging happens at home overnight, and the Supercharger network continues to expand at a pace unmatched by competitors.
What Should Tesla Owners Keep in Their Cars?
Andy’s real question is an important one. Unlike ICE cars, you don’t need engine tools or spare oil. But being prepared for unexpected situations is still key. Some owners say a tire repair kit and inflator are must-haves since Tesla doesn’t include a spare tire. Others recommend carrying a charging adapter or even a portable charging cable in case you find yourself away from a Supercharger. Stories about Tesla Model 3 drivers struggling with range remind us that preparation for Tesla road trips with charging strategies is still a very real part of EV life, and it’s something new owners quickly learn.
Community Voices on Andy’s Question
The Tesla community quickly jumped in with advice, each offering a unique perspective that highlights the wide range of ownership experiences.
Kushan Aravinda recommended practicality above all: “I carry a tire repair kit, electric tire inflator, and a charging cable.”
This advice reflects what many long-time owners say, as roadside tire issues are far more common than EV-specific failures. In fact, some owners have shared stories of being stranded without proper tire tools, underscoring why a small kit is such an important safeguard. One Tesla driver even recalled ruining a Model 3 tire on a rural road hours from the nearest service station, proving how crucial these tools can be and why being prepared matters when you ruin a Tesla tire far from service.
Stephen James Hamel took a different approach, downplaying the need for anything extra and adding a bit of humor: “Nah, just drive it. They require about the same amount of maintenance as your microwave.”
His comment captures a truth many new owners quickly discover. Tesla vehicles demand far less regular maintenance than traditional cars. There’s no oil to change, no belts to replace, and far fewer moving parts overall.
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Mark F Chinsky’s response was one of pure relatability: “I’m exactly like you. I used to bash EV, then drove one and will never go back. I doubt I will ever switch from Tesla.”
His story reinforces Andy’s own transformation, showing how common it is for skeptics to become devoted Tesla drivers after experiencing the car firsthand. It also reflects the growing community of owners who see Tesla not just as a car brand but as a long-term commitment.
Finally, Steve Seikel provided a broader perspective on EV adoption: “Yup, these cars sell themselves after a little research and the test drive does it. Most are just afraid of the cost of battery replacement and if there’s a problem there, but they have never been around long enough to know they’re very durable. I own two now.”
This point is a valuable reminder that battery anxiety remains one of the biggest fears for new buyers. Yet stories of Tesla Model 3s surpassing 200,000 miles on their original batteries show that durability is not just a claim, but a reality owners are proving every day.
The Bigger Picture on EV Adoption
What stands out to me about Andy’s story is how human the shift toward EV ownership really is. It isn’t about government policies or marketing campaigns but about people experiencing the cars for themselves. I think the most telling part is that Andy still carries some skepticism, like his playful jab at the Cybertruck, but that didn’t stop him from embracing Tesla ownership.
To me, that proves EV adoption isn’t about blind faith; it’s about authentic experiences that win people over one drive at a time. And the more stories like Andy’s surface, the more I believe that the future of EV adoption will be written by these personal grassroots transformations.
Key Takeaways
- Test drives change minds: Many skeptics become owners the moment they feel Tesla’s instant torque and smooth handling.
- Carry smart essentials: Items like a tire repair kit and inflator adapters can make a big difference during unexpected situations.
- Tesla ownership means less maintenance: With fewer moving parts, the upkeep is closer to an appliance than a traditional car.
- Battery durability is real: Long-term owners are proving that Tesla batteries can last far beyond what skeptics fear.
- Community knowledge is invaluable: Joining Tesla groups and forums gives new owners guidance that no manual could fully cover.
Your Thoughts Matter
Has a test drive in a car that you were skeptical about change your mind?
And for current Tesla owners, what’s the one essential item you always keep in your car that new drivers might not think of?
Let us know in the comments below. Your comment might just be what another person needs to hear.
Aram Krajekian is a young automotive journalist bringing a fresh perspective to his coverage of the evolving automotive landscape. Follow Aram on X and LinkedIn for daily news coverage about cars.
Image Sources: The “Tesla Model 3 and Model Y Owners Club” public Facebook group and Tesla’s gallery, respectively.
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Source: torquenews.com
