The Base Standard Range Model 3 Is The One To Buy! Tesla Is Setting The Automotive Benchmark

[@Nothingmenandwomen]

I bought this car about a year ago in Switzerland and use it as my daily driver. After owning various Teslas since 2012 (Model S Signature Performance, MS P85+, MS P85D, M3LR, M3P, MX LR+) and clocking more than half a million kilometers in these cars total -- I deliberately wanted to try out "the cheapest and slowest" Tesla I could buy. After owning mostly performance and AWD cars, I wondered what it would be like to detox a little on power, status and vehicle size … and to tell the answer right away: This is one of the best and satisfying cars I have every owned and will keep it for a long time. It is a "Made in China" vehicle, with the 60 kWh LFP battery pack and already has the “Octovalve” heatpump, AMD-Ryzen CPU, Li-Ion 12V-Battery, etc. As I have told Kyle in the past, it is one of the most satisfying Teslas I have owned and driven so far and I do not miss a thing. I am driving quite a lot long trips on the German Autobahn when I do business travel and it performs there just a good as my previous performance models. Range is sufficient to make 1.000 km (600 miles) road trips at high speeds with three supercharging stops less than 20 Minutes each. Acceleration at highway speeds is amazing - and the consumption amazingly low: 120 Wh/km (around 192 Wh/mile) city and just 156 Wh/km (about 250 Wh/m) over the last 55.000 km including about 50% German Autobahn with driving speeds well above 150 kph when left lanes allowed. I can cover 1.000 km faster than in my previous Model S or X with much larger battery packs due to its efficiency. Battery degradation so far is at 3.2% (measured with Teslafi on indicated EPA-Range projection) over 55K km, but trend more and more flattening. Battery is charged to 100% once a week and often used down to 0% on longer trips (with sufficient extra range of about 18 km beyond that point if needed). With fully charged battery, I can drive about 330 km Autobahn or 400 km city drives even in cold weather. The Octovalve heatpump system works efficiently, reliably even in very low temperatures, but makes some funny alien-slurping noises at times, when the valves shift gears. DC fast charging in cold temperatures requires about 20 minutes pre-heating on longer road trips, which the car is managing automatically as long the supercharger stop in programmed in the navigation, but then it will start out with up to 175 KW and is usually at 80% SoC after 20 Minutes. This car often gets ready hit the road again before I finish my coffee at the restaurant. It is very quiet to drive around in it. The seats and the sound system is great (although it does not have the “premium” option). It has enough power to always be ahead of all other cars at a light and to outrun almost all gas-powered cars if you have to. But best of all, it does not rattle or squeak at all had no (zero) issues so far and the only maintenance I had was to now windshield wiper blades after 50,000 km. And if I would sell the car today, I would easily get the price I paid when it was new. It literally has no depreciation - weather in value nor in enjoyment every day.

[@JoeMayk3D]

I’ve just put a deposit down on a model Y standard RWD but am having doubts after hearing so many people talk about the long range and performance as Im scared of feeling hungry for more power. can I just check are you talking about the model y rwd here? Just looking for some reassurance from someone in a similar position 🙌

[@jacobheinz8236]

Yes I think he’s got the 60kWh battery RWD model, it’s the no frills base model. The review is the same. Guess what, I’m getting mine in a couple of weeks time. Fingers cross, I’m hoping all will go well ! Good luck to yours! Be realistic, no cars made by human hands, even partially, will be perfect.

[@garybean2205]

@@JoeMayk3D mention of ""the cheapest and slowest" Tesla I could buy" would seem to indicate the Model 3. Would be welcome if some of the reduced production cost (by way of the cast front and rear underbody) were passed along to the consumer.

[@therpope]

We also bought the MYSR because it was 10k (!) cheaper but 90km less range lol

[@Hazard4K]

I have a feeling even with a probably-incoming price drop on the new model 3 that the "Ryzen model 3" is now going to hold value even better because of the hackability recently discovered that cannot be "fixed" by tesla... People are going to be able to unlock $20k+ in options with hacks and nothing tesla can do about it. Tesla also loves to show off their resale values as a selling point, so I don't see them even see them bothering to try fixing the hack.

[@justinschultz4325]

I loved the father and son dynamic when Kyle decided to rip it.

[@ryanfagan4563]

Great explanation for the newcomers and everyday driver. This was well done and great chemistry between son and father! I personally love when Kyle goes all tech talk!

[@MarcioSantos-pp4os]

Really funny how bored Anna looks wirh All this. nerdy talk 😂

[@depthcharge6215]

It has missing features auch as no sub.

[@JSLReview]

Have had my RWD Model 3 for a month now, it’s been fantastic and I’m very happy with it💯

[@Cakebattered]

Let Kyle run a 70mph range test on it. I don't think Kyle nor Tom Moloughney have ever conducted a 70mph range test on a Model 3 SR. Its always been the Performance or Long Range.

[@douglascheesman]

I’ve owned a 2023 M3 RWD for the past three months and drive 90+ miles each way twice a week. In cold weather around 75 MPH I’ve got a real world range somewhere around 190-200 miles in sub-freezing temps

[@patrickshelley09]

@@douglascheesman Yep, I've got a 2022 M3 LFP built in August of 22. 200 miles give or take 20 in the winter has been my experience. In the Summer it'll do close to the EPA range on the highway. More in the city or back roads.

[@zguy95135]

You should be able to get ~230 miles easily going 70mph above freezing and in the dry. Just got back from a 300 mile weekend trip, going up and down a mountain (not much regen on the way down, high SOC) and was going between 70-85mph on the highway we averaged 260Wh/mi (so about 223 miles if drained to 0%). Expect around 235-240Wh if you keep it under 75 so more like 240+.

[@ppatil3655]

@@douglascheesman wow thats really surprising, I assumed it was dogshit like 100 miles or something in subfreezing temps

[@letric7927]

I have a model y lfp battery made in Shanghai I can get 242 miles at 60mph

[@cbenson513]

This exact car (well, I'd get the white interior) is likely my next EV. Depends on cost to get one from Germany to Madeira. Pretty much same range as my M3P with way better efficiency, still a ton of fun, gets Tesla updates.

[@user-gs8vn3mk3b]

through review, I suggest test-driving one. I test-drove a Model 3 two weeks ago and when I got back home I placed the order because I instantly fell in love with all the features and the purchase process from loan to insurance all through the Tesla app was a breeze I got a delivery few days ago and not a single car I bought made me this happy. Thank you for your beautiful content. Al from Texas :)

[@barttemolder3405]

I built a couple of LFP battery packs to boost EV range on my (non plug-in) hybrid. The point with LFP cells is that the voltage drop between 99% charged and 1% charged is relatively slight. Therefore, cell voltage is a bad indicator for SOC over a cell. That's why charging them to 100% and let the BMS cut the charge and bleed the highest voltage cells regularly is necessary to maintain perfect balance. I have one underperforming cell in one of my packs, it always takes some time to pull it in line.

[@jozefroman2110]

And what is the range difference now ?

[@barttemolder3405]

@@jozefroman2110 It never amounted to much, as my car (a Honda Insight) does only have a small 10kW motor and tiny battery so its control electronics refuse to let it run for long in EV mode never mind its state of charge (even when artificially enhanced). It would take hours of driving to finally drain my 1.4 kWh combined booster packs. It would do close to 30 km/l or 70+ mpg, but I can get 26-27 l/km (60+ mpg) without my booster packs and without the hassle of carrying them to and from my car and keeping them charged up. Nowadays I don't drive much anymore and my wife also uses the car; I want it 100% safe and simple so I reverted it back to normal.

[@MrDingaling007]

Im also converting my non plugin Prius to a plug in hybrid using LFP cells. Nothing like a tesla but its really cost effective.

[@rkan2]

No nickel or cobolt either!

[@jsigmon88]

Dig the Kyle and Dave back and forth. You guys should do these more often!

[@douglascheesman]

Some recent real world advice: I live in the Bronx, NY. I work up in Kingston, NY which is 94 miles away. In extreme cold this winter, I could drive my M3 RWD up and arrive at a 50% state of charge. Once there, I can supercharge for ten minutes to get it up to around 60-65% state of charge with no preconditioning. I rarely precondition in this situation, because it actually eats up around 5-10% of the battery heating up the battery for supercharging. That 10% battery capacity isn’t worth it for a slightly faster charge in those situations. The preconditioning is really only necessary if you’re trying to get up to 90-100%. That’s my two cents.

[@douglascheesman]

And anecdotally- the majority of my drives, from the past three months, have been averaging 75-80 mph on the freeway and in sub-freezing temps

[@ed1pk]

Do you use dedicated snow tires for winter?

[@Matt-dx3wo]

Got my 23 LFP for my 'only' car a few months ago and this all jibes with my experience. The car feels special in a motorsports way vs. many modern vehicles. The visibility is excellent, the steering ratio is incredibly quick, the suspension feels taut. Around town you feel every bump in a rounded off way, but once up to highway speed the suspension comes into its own. The power ramp is a bit fun, off the line it is actually pretty quick when you're not accustomed to high power vehicles, but then the power really builds around 30 to 40 mph in a pleasingly linear way. At least it is saving me from destroying my tires too quickly...

[@kiwijonowilson]

My experience too. It would be nice if the power ramped on a little sooner, but then for the money its still a pretty peppy car (and fantastic on the open road).

[@misterb1132]

Have only 400 miles on mine. My first. I learn something every time I drive it.

[@rkan2]

Most cars at this price point and even higher priced vehicles have Mac Pherson strut. Model 3 has multilink/double wishbone. It is really good for the money. Possibly even unbeatable. Tesla can always go lower with it's price if there become competitors.

[@zooomthesquirrel3707]

​@@rkan2 hi, so I am assuming this multilink suspension is usually the more expensive one ?

[@rkan2]

@@zooomthesquirrel3707 Yes, absolutely. Though on Tesla it is not quite as complicated and expensive as Audi's/Porsche's full aluminium 5-arm setup. Tesla uses more steel. It isn't much worse, but it is much better than Mac Pherson.

[@TechProGabe]

I've had a lfp model 3 for a few months now and I've been so impressed with it.

[@MattLassota]

Are you charging to 100% daily? I've had mine for 2 weeks now. not sure what best practice is.

[@maxou5757]

@@MattLassota Tesla recommends charging to 100% daily.

[@misterb1132]

@@maxou5757 Or at least once a week.

[@Gav_295]

@@MattLassota I’ve had mine for a year been charging it to 100% cause I live in Canada with cold weather battery is still 100%

[@TechProGabe]

@@MattLassota I have 13k miles, charged to 100% most days with no noticable degradation

[@doalwa]

I've had this car since November '21 and can honestly say, it's the best car I've ever driven. And I've driven the likes of Audi A4, BMW 3 series, VW Golf GTI..none of those cars comes close to the sheer enjoyment of simply driving this car. I just couldn't with those ugly Aero wheels though and treated myself to some nice 19 inch wheels, efficency be damned 😂 Apart from that, it's the same base model with no extras and it still comes with the best infotainment in the business and a bunch of other great features you'd be nickel and dimned to death for by most other manufacturers.

[@misterb1132]

Have had mine for three weeks...I keep going out to the garage to look at it while I smoke another bowl.😄 I'm 56 and I can already tell this is the best car I have ever driven also.

[@Sommers234]

Every single person I know that has one T model or another absolutely loves the car. But I've never heard anybody say they did like the drivability and feel more than the German cars.

[@doalwa]

@@Sommers234 maybe I’ve driven the wrong cars? 🤷‍♂️ True, when it comes to fit and finish, the Germans are still a ways ahead. But I can’t help it, as soon as I step into my Model 3, I have a smile on my face.

[@AB-fc5kl]

Thank you for the comment about the wheels because the standard ones are Fugly.

[@doalwa]

@@AB-fc5kl you’re welcome and yes, they are.

[@sazon1988]

Bought a used 2019 Model 3 with 28,000 miles on it right through Tesla. Previous owner took great care of it. Awesome EV. First time EV owner. Took it from Boston to NYC for a mini vacation. Drove very smooth. Very impressed. Supercharger experience was very easy and fast. Glad I made the switch to EV. For anyone thinking about making the switch.. just do your research and be patient. I get free charging at work so I don’t need the house charger and have three supercharger locations near me. The furthest one is about 15-20 minutes away. So it does work out for me.

[@73av8r5]

I did the same…..mines perfect except for range but that doesn’t matter to me as I only use it around town. Looks just like the new ones except for the chrome trim which I don’t mind.

[@vanmore5124]

I'd buy one but I'm worried about the batteries needing x5 the mining of an equivalent ICE vehicle and they very much make us reliant on China and some other countries that aren't exactly our biggest fans. I think I'll wait for hydrogen which all you really need to make is electricity and water which keeps us independent and I hear it'll be half the cost of diesel soon and it has the same amount of torque. Zero emissions except water vapor.

[@73av8r5]

@@vanmore5124 Sorry to say this but you’re gonna be waiting a long time. No manufacturers are taking hydrogen seriously….too bad because I agree with you re:environment.

[@vanmore5124]

@@73av8r5 The CEO of Toyota has just said their main focus moving forward will be building hydrogen cars. The US is currently building the biggest hydrogen making plant ever. JCB is moving their whole fleet to Hydrogen and Japan plans on having 1,000 hydrogen filling stations by 2030. The UK is switching its gas pipelines to carry hydrogen within a few years and the Czech Republic is currently building hundreds of hydrogen filling stations. hopefully all this and more mean we don't have to wait too much longer.

[@OtisFlint]

@@vanmore5124 Hydrogen has never worked. As long as you don't live in coal country, the payback on emissions from mining is relatively short. 40-60k miles typically, depending on battery size and electricity source.

[@deadeyedan444]

I just bought this car, (had to have the white seats) for many of the reasons you've disclosed. It is replacing a 2019 Touring 2.0 10 speed Accord which has a similar advertised 0-60 but the Tesla feels much quicker due to the immediacy of the torque of the electric motor. So far, very happy.

[@apakerzin]

Congrats! :D

[@davidandrew6357]

Thank you for making a point about the efficiency of this car. 3.9 miles per kW is pretty good, and 5 is even better. To many of the electric vehicles produced today don't seem to have efficiency in mind at all.

[@scottz45]

I have a Model 3 from 2018, My wife has a 2020 Model Y. I just purchased a Model Y and picked it up in Feb 2023. The improvements to the new Y over the 2020 Y is impressive. From things that most people will notice like a more comfortable ride or less stiff and a heated steering wheel, to things only an engineer nerd will look for like double pane glass, Bio defense hepafilter and refinement to the interior. It is incredible the speed Tesla is improving. I love that they don't wait 7 years to improve a car like all the old companies did my whole life. I had a Rivian on order because at the time a Model Y was only about $7000 less then a R1T. However Tesla dropped the price hard so I went with a Y and cancelled my R1T. I really did not look forward to dealing with CCS DC fast charging on my road trips which I do often. Well not as often as OOS.

[@Krahamus]

I would like to buy tesla but where i live for now model 3 cost $91k, lets hope they will build factory here soon and prices will drop.

[@KaiPonte]

I drove a '22 MY and my back ached afterwards. Ended up getting a '22 Mustang Mach-e. 10,000 miles later, am still happy.

[@viplav76]

I got it with some timely inputs from Dave, last December. Can’t agree more. Insane efficiency, awesome road-tripper, 20-80% on v3 in 20 minutes, very good maneuverability, charge to 100% everyday (I use 90-100% daily for my 10-20 miles; will be very interested in the question Kyle put on what should be the daily charge limit? Anybody knowing, please reply) never under 260 miles full range, I get 4.2 miles/kWh (got 4.1 in my 891 miles trip to & from Cupertino to LA). I’ve had zero build quality issues. Had to reboot the screen twice in the 3.5 months of ownership. Just to know. Thanks, out of spec, it’s my very first car after moving to the US only last summer. Cheers

[@Berretotube]

Thanks for the summary - very helpful 🙏

[@cybrtrkguy]

If you have the LFP, 100% should be your daily charge limit! 244Wh/mi on the highway is absolutely incredible Edit: just got to the end of the video where they clarify the daily/weekly limits. I'm not an expert, just a nerd!

[@Wasssup3232]

@@cybrtrkguy my best highway efficiency was 188 at 43 F and 70MPH. HVAC set to fan speed 2 with low and no AC on. Alone on a flat stretch of highway

[@ezpoppy55]

I love my 2021 M3 SR+, which I lovingly call my poor man’s Tesla! It’s taken me across town and across the country. Yes, it’s the slowest, shortest range, smallest, and least expensive Tesla made. But… in my estimation, it is both the perfect around town, AND long road trip warrior, vehicle. I get to enjoy the high tech features, the Tesla superchargers, the OTA updates, and comforts and features. Plus, this car is so damn fun to drive!! And unlike most other Teslas, you get TWO wheel choices: the butt ugly aero wheels or the much better looking wheels hiding under the Aeros - and it’s super easy to switch from one to the other. And when I got mine, it was $10,000 cheaper than the next level up (M3 LR) and even more savings than that compared to the MY LR. Fantastic efficiency. I’m at nearly 28,000 miles and nearly 2 years, and my lifetime efficiency is 238 kWh. Ha!!! Great car.

[@jaysmith1376]

You guys are awesome!! My sons are 5 & 3 and I hope we connect like you guys do when they’re older. Thanks from Australia!

[@RamboChicken360]

It is totally fine to charge an LFP/graphite (cathode/anode) cell, like those in this Model 3 SR, to 100% SOC regularly because of two factors: 1) in an NMC/NCA cell, the cathode material undergoes crystal structure changes at high SOC that can cause physical microcracking of the cathode particles. This can lead to loss of active cathode material which degrades the available capacity of the pack. 2) In Tesla's cell designs, all cells with NMC/NCA cathodes except for the 4680's from Austin are not paired with a pure graphite anode but with a blended graphite/silicon anode. Silicon has incredible volume change on the micron scale when it is charged, causing it to also for microcracks, but generally even more severe than the NMC/NCA cathodes. Both the anode and cathode volume changes and resulting microcracking can be mitigated to some extent by charging to a lower maximum SOC. In LFP, it takes in lithium in a fundamentally different mechanism than NMC/NCA, so it does not have the same microcracking issue, and these cells also do not contain silicon, only graphite, which is a much more stable but lower energy density anode. Combined, these reasons mean you can charge to 100% SOC regularly with a Model 3 SR LFP.

[@TheDaizM]

How can you find out if the car you intend to buy has and lfp in it?

[@ledzeppelin1212]

Interesting. I never truly understood why that was true, but thanks for the explanation!

[@maxgreece1]

Nice Video. I am in Greece and bought the SR+ about 18 months ago. Mine was made in China so it is also LFP. It’s been a dream so far and huge value for money in comparison to anything else in its price range at the time. Being in Greece the cold isn’t really an issue. The lowest we get is about 2 centigrade. Should also say we just charge 95% of the time at home and the office on a normal 220V/13 amp circuit. It’s not fast but it doesnt matter as its plugged in either while at work (9 hours typically) or at night and its charged when we are ready to go. Also we typically get better efficiency than you are talking about - maybe because the SR+ battery is smaller and lighter, but 250 miles range seems typical.

[@loriallen67]

Love seeing father and son. Fun and informative video. I’m still holding out for a small hatchback with medium range but decent charging. Someday…..

[@silentperson233]

Got this car for my 30th birthday! Simply went for the lowest price Tesla, and I like this one especially because of the low curb weight - it feels more fun to drive and hopefully the tires wear out slower. I wish they can get the weight down to

[@MikeRadioNY]

Thanks! You guys are amazing and your channels are incredible…. You are the reason I bought an EV!

[@dconner9]

Thx Mike!

[@MikeRadioNY]

@@dconner9 You are welcome. You guys do an amazing job!

[@slyguyaction]

I can't say enough good things about the LFP Model 3. Absolutely LOVE our 2022

[@astainlessnoyb1038]

We got the M3LR and love it. If they put AWD on the base model we would have gotten that but the extra range is nice and here with the winters AWD is a must.

[@Frosticus453]

I really like my 21 sr+. 134wh/km over 40k km over the last 1.5yrs. Not a single issue. That is right around 5 miles/kw and it rips pretty fast when pressed. It has decent road trip ability as it charges fairly quick and is ultra efficient. As long as chargers aren't too far apart haha.

[@LearningFast]

I can’t believe Kyle didn’t know that they removed the sensors and the parking beeps. That has been the case since last fall. The new software that is said to fix that is only available with FSD right now.

[@joetacchino4470]

This is unbelievably short sighted and one of the many reasons I sold my Tesla after 4 years and don't regret it in the slightest. .

[@LearningFast]

@@joetacchino4470 why would you sell your Tesla that had those sensors?

[@tauzN]

@@joetacchino4470 least delusional consumer

[@istvan.design]

At least rear sensors would be mandatory.

[@LearningFast]

@@istvan.design only a rear camera is now mandatory. The sensors aren’t required.

[@tomstdenis]

21:58 LFP batteries can float at 100% SOC all day long it doesn't hurt them (it's not necessary though for cycle life so it's kinda a waste of energy).

[@bobo-san]

I totally agree with you in all; I own a M3 MIC since 2 month and I'm totally happy with it. Even in winter if you choose any fast charger by tesla infotainment navigation it will preheat it and charging is like a rocket any time! But I really want to know what is the sweet spot of leaving the battery alone for a while? "we need a battery expert 22:26" ... Tesla has made a great job; I didn't have any issues since delivery, quality was excellent! greetings from Germany

[@dimention6600]

I love my model 3. I enjoy driving it every day. The best car I have ever had.

[@NickFoster]

@@vickykennel7414 The interior on my 2021 M3SR has occasional vibrations, it's true, but I love the lack of buttons, it's one of the reasons I wanted one. And why would I care about the CEO of the company? I'm never going to meet him.

[@OtisFlint]

@@vickykennel7414 Ah, another free speech hater.

[@daveroth4092]

Absolute best reviews for all electric vehicles. Love your channel.

[@dominicpirocchi1221]

My son just bought one. Going to share this video with him. Westtown, PA! I grew up in Springfield Delco. Otto’s in 1979, back then they still had the BMW Motorrad dealership. They got rid of it to make room for the Minis.

[@joshreed1216]

Just took my delivery last week. blue with white interior. love it so far. Leaps and bounds above the leaf plus it replaced.

[@misterb1132]

I just got the blue and white as well.🥳 Congrats!

[@Sommers234]

Good to see a fellow BMW enthusiast ! I was driving 2002 and 320i in the seventies and eighties. We flash our lights in camaraderie because we loved our cars and the way they drove and felt. Every single person I know that has a Tesla loves the car. But I never heard anybody told me that it matched the feel of the German cars.

[@SpottedSharks]

I have 2022 Model 3LR and before that, a 2016 BMW 328i 6-speed. Both are great cars but I prefer the Tesla.

[@JeffEdmondson]

I've had my Sr+ since 2020. I'm so happy I didn't spend a dime more on the higher trim or more range. Great car.

[@bhmbill]

My friend’s 2019 M3 RWD had a misaligned trunk lid, it leaked water into the trunk. 4 years later they are still building cars with misaligned trunk lids, they don’t care about build quality, never have cared. They make the hard stuff look easy and the easy stuff hard. Are the LFP cylindrical cells made in North America?

[@FoamyDave]

If you are that worried about cobalt then you would ditch your ICE car immediately. Cobalt is used to produce every gallon of gas your ICE consumes whereas if you electric car's battery contains cobalt there is not much of it and it is mined once and that is that. Oh, and if someday your battery is EoL then that cobalt can be recycled.

[@MrAdopado]

It's not quite as you describe. I don't particularly rate the cobalt issue as much as some people but it's important to try to be as honest and accurate as possible in representing the state of play. The cobalt in gasoline production is used as a catalyst rather than consumed, so in practice is a relatively small amount. The newest figures I've seen for world cobalt consumption show 7% is used for all catalytic industrial processes (including all the fuel production plus any other catalytic processes). That's for all the fuel in the world for all pre-existing cars. That 7% is about the same as used by the steel industry for producing steel. Battery production uses 41% (all batteries for all uses). It's a good thing that we now have battery technology (LFP) that can reduce use of cobalt.

[@TheDapperham]

We brought our Model 3 RWD with the LFP battery home one year ago yesterday. Our first EV it's hands down the best car that I've owned. And I'm 65. Having said that, I am #212 on the list for Aptera's Launch Edition and really hoping to be driving that a year from yesterday.

[@kedduff1814]

I doubt aptera will actually ever deliver. I hope they do because I also have a reserve.

[@RayNLA]

I don’t see Aptera happening. Are you still interested in it?

[@rempha]

Agree, for average drivers the RWD LFP M3 is great value for the money and full Tesla experience. For enthusiast drivers just get the performance version to enjoy the driving experience.

[@StealthFlightFPV]

It was interesting to get your prospective on this Tesla. I have been curious about driving one of these and what it would be like to use one daily. I've never owned an EV and had only test drove the ID.4. In May we rented a Model 3 RWD LFP from Hertz for a week in South Florida. We picked it up in Miami and returned it in Fort Myers (Airport). Overall, I enjoyed the car and found myself not wanting to return it! I was like a kid in a candy store playing with all the tech in the car (I'm a software developer and nerd). Loved the charging experience. Superchargers where very easy and convent to use. We even used the mobile connector one day to recharge the car at a family members house. 120v 12amp took almost 20 hours to recharge to 100% from the upper 30's after returning from Marco Island to Naples. We had the AC cranked up the whole time with it being 80-90F+ outside most of the time. I could see the battery percentage going down from that, but we got to all our stops without any issues. Loved the handling and autopilot on the highway. I never got to experience the phone integration because Hertz makes you use the keycard in a bulky plastic protection case, but that did not bother me really. One thing for sure is I would never buy the gray or black with black seats living here in Florida! It also really needed tinted windows to help keep the interior cooler. We are considering getting a Tesla for our next car, but we don't need another car yet so we are watching and waiting to see what Tesla does with the M3 refresh and the newer lower priced options coming maybe next year.

[@ebernier797]

If you are someone that owns a car 4 plus years and you can count on one hand how many times you road trip during ownership, than the Bolt is THE bargain. The only long distance drives I make are 200 miles from current location to Tampa, FL. If I didn’t tow a boat once in a while I would buy a Bolt in a heartbeat.

[@broosewee]

It is a little disappointing that new Teslas without radar sensors don't have distance assist or emergency braking. They better figure it out and add it back soon!

[@SoapBoxKitchen]

I really love my model 3 LFP 2022. Great ride! Look forward to driving it all the time. Keep up the good work!

[@DB-be9wy]

This was BY FAR the best video I have seen on a model 3. Thank you.

[@MrDingaling007]

The reason to charge to 100% weekly is to also allow all the LFPs cells to balance. That can only be done in the upper voltage range (unless bottom balancing). So yes it does keep the bms accurate and keeps maximum range as no cell is going to drift out of balance and cause that weakest cell to impact overall capacity. Charging to 100% is overkill, every 1 week is much better just to keep those cells in check.

[@underscorechaz]

how much do you charge it day to day when its not time to charge 100%?

[@yvonnevalery60]

I just purchased a used 2021 model 3. I am really enjoying it. I love having the comfort in knowing a supercharger is near by when traveling. This is one of the best parts of owning a Tesla over the other EV’s.

[@AK-zd6yr]

I have owned a 2019 M3P and currently a 2022 MS. Just got back from a trip to Houston where I rented this M3 RWD from Hertz. Have to say the car was surprisingly good! I have to agree with ur advice here!

[@andrewt9204]

I had the same trunk misalignments on my 2021. I fixed it myself in like 10 minutes. It's just two bolts on each side, slide the trunk up or down a few mm's and re-tighten. I like the idea of an LFP pack, but rural MN just doesn't have enough charging yet to get away from the LR pack.

[@tom_hoots]

Can ANYONE explain to me why such a "simple fix" absolutely, positively CANNOT POSSIBLY BE DONE at any Tesla so-called alleged "factory?" From what I understand, this is what the automotive industry refers to as "quality control."

[@andrewt9204]

@@tom_hoots there is no good explanation. I certainly should not have had to do that. QC is definitely hit or miss with Tesla. I'm sure with some of their new factories with all the laser guided alignment stuff it will be more consistent. But, I live over an hour away from the nearest service center and after looking at it I knew I could adjust it myself quickly enough.

[@Barbershoppod]

I live in rural northern Minnesota this isnt an option yet… maybe one day

[@andrewt9204]

@@Barbershoppod I don't think it will be long. A lot of the larger municipalities have 50kW CCS chargers for super cheap. While not superfast, it's usually enough to get a quick bump to home or a faster charger. I went to the Hibbing/Virginal area for work and used the one in Chisolm for a bit to get enough back to Duluth. Unless you live more than 80 miles north or west of Bemidji, you should be ok now, even in dead of winter.

[@cascivic]

Dave and Kyle if you ever hear from a battery guru please let us know! I have the same car. Use about 45% a day daily commute. Been charging 75-25 and then once in a while to 100 to calibrate. Really curious what's the magic number! Took my first ski trip to VT last weekend and loved it

[@S3XYEV]

I've been driving several around town for the last couple of months, and I totally agree! ....The Model 3 is the least expensive, FUN to drive, has all the tech of the higher-priced Tesla models, has the LFP battery, and more range than some $80,000+ EV cars coming out. By the way Dave, I went to school in Lansdale, PA ...not far from there 💜😎

[@ALRinaldi]

After going to the local Tesla showroom/service center, and test driving a MY and MXP, and playing with the showroom 3, the Model 3 reminds me the most of my old 1997 328is... man I miss that car! Getting in one in person made me more likely to consider one, even though it does have less storage capacity than my Gen 3 Prius. Hopefully these LFP cars will start hitting good prices on the used market soon.

[@Heidi60211]

Just about to say it reminds me of the 2012 328i, lol

[@LearningFast]

I have seen 12 KW when heating the battery in my 2022 Tesla Model 3 Performance while in Park with the A/C off. I saw 9 KW of cooling while in Track Mode and in Park as well.

[@CourtneyThompsonPemberton]

I must say I absolutely loved this video. I'm sitting here having my breakfast and as I watch this I think to myself this is the real breakfast of champions

[@misterb1132]

They are so knowledgeable together, it's very impressive. Just got my first Tesla 3 weeks ago. Just came in from trying the Cozy Fire. Ha ha haaa, it's very realistic.

[@shaneslaughter1719]

I just bought a Model 3 Standard Range because of you reviews. I am graduating from a Bolt EUV. Main reason for leaving non-Tesla is charging. I have to take a 400 mile trip in my which required 2 Charges to get to my destination. Electrify America station being down made me take a longer trip just to rely the infrastructure. Thank You for all your work.

[@edwingrigorian4585]

Well, you two guys (based mainly on this video) convinced me to go out and buy a base Tesla Model 3 (out of the blue, unplanned) as I went and test drove one couple of weeks ago and then decided to get one before the $7500 federal tax credit expires. I took delivery of it just yesterday. It's a great car except maybe the rear seat space is on the smallish side, but It will do as a work commute car for me.

[@familydad3241]

Where you get the info on the tax credit expiring? Next year they can start taking it off the price at purchase, instead of waiting til tax time.

[@edwingrigorian4585]

@@familydad3241 fueleconomy.gov/feg/tax2023.shtml It got way cheaper after I bought it (by $4k) :-(

[@jrwaters943]

We have a 2021 Polestar 2 LRDM w/ the performance software update and a 2023 Model 3 SR+. In many ways we actually prefer the Tesla in spite it being nearly $20k less expensive than the Polestar. The seats are more comfortable in the Tesla, the storage space is worlds better, and it is much easier to see out of due to the lower beltline. The Polestar feels (and is) very heavy and solid on the road, but leaves me cold in most driving situations. It's a tank and great in the snow, but the steering and throttle inputs feel a little numb to me. It's very competent, but doesn't feel as playful as the 3 in day to day driving. The Model Y was of no interest to me because, much like the X, it is bloated and ugly from most angles.

[@davehynek8936]

I dig the back and forth from dad and son, great video

[@Techridr]

I have the same 2023 car in red. I'm also every bit as nerdy about this stuff as you two. In my hours and hours of research into LFP, it is my personal opinion that they should NOT be charged to 100% every day. Degridation on LFP seems to happen at a very similar rate than NCA or other lithium vairants. Some argue the lower voltage allows them to degrade slower and some claim that, but to be safe, I charge mine to about 75% and will charge to 100% about once a week, but ONLY before I drive. I am too OCD about letting the car just sit in a 100% state. I also do this with my BMW CE-04 EV motorcycle/scooter. It has prismatic batteries. Last year, with my 2022 M3 RWD, I almost never charged beyond 75%. Road trips only. As a side note, I LOVE my M3-RWD/LFP. Amazing car

[@kiwijonowilson]

I'm similar. I do charge it to 100% every week, and also if I'm doing a bigger trip but the rest of the time I leave at what ever level ends up after the weekend (typically 60 - 80%). Not sure if we can trust its estimate range (in my case in km) when at 100%, as there have been a few updates they may affect this, but mine was originally 437km @ 100% and now after 12 months and 14,000km its 426km @ 100%. In theory that would be 2.5% degradation but, as I say, I'm not sure thats a good measure of degradation (I must do a full test with Scan My Tesla on one of my trips).

[@olemissjim]

Great review. I have a bolt ev and a 3 performance. The autopilot, comfort, software features, and superchargers make the tesla so much better but the Bolt is a blast and a super value. It just doesn’t make a good “only car” unless you can rent something for road trips.

[@BGross-wt7yc]

We’re right behind you - bought a Leaf early last year, and love it (for what it is). Next month we’re renting a M3LR from Hertz for a week long, 3 state road trip. Sure hope I don’t love it!

[@Kido1986]

Does not apply at all to LFP batteries but as a point of data, I had my 2019 LRAWD 3, 80k miles in the shop last week. A friend works there and let me in while he did some work. Asked him to check my battery health. He said the absolute best condition batteries report 203-204 amphours, good condition well used are in the low 190s. My car is reporting 200 aH even with a decent amount of roadtripping/Supercharging. I daily charge mine to 60-65%, at low speeds (5-8 amps @ 240v). Usually stays between 40-65 when I'm not roadtripping.

[@leebr2010]

This car is an incredible bargain for what you get. Coupled with the reliable superchargers network and regular software updates, it's a no-brainer compared to legacy automakers' EVs.

[@HermanWillems]

Especially the cost per mile is low.

[@kv1930]

You get shitty build quality and new tech. Congrats!! The same people are happy to own Jaguars or Rols Royce,also shitty quality!

[@broosewee]

I want this exact spec as a 2nd Tesla. It's so perfect for that role.

[@jonathanmillar7205]

Love this video. I’ve just bought one and agree with everything you say. Here in the UK the range is 305 miles the efficiency is off the scale and the acceleration is still huge and faster than most cars on the road, day to day this car is unbeatable!

[@johnchallenger3204]

You're convincing me that I don't need to go for the dual motor just to get an upgraded sound system. It's cheaper to buy an iPhone and some earbuds and live with the stock system! Your review is superb and thank you for sharing your impressive knowledge.

[@mhsohel47]

Nice one. Honesty what we care about, no bias. Haters gonna hate but reality is always appreciated.

[@roejogan292]

That's my exact car '23 RWD, took delivery in October. 12,000 miles later, I couldn't be happier with it.

[@PaulJohnson-nq2mo]

Ordered an inventory 23 Model 3 RWD today, same configuration as yours. Cost is $30,740 (after fed subsidy and before 3% NC sales tax). Great end of quarter prices on the Model 3!

[@mikemetz82]

33 minutes of two guys correcting each other. 😂

[@ChicagoBob123]

Waiting to get mine. They say before the 30th. Your dad is right. Model 3 standard is fast enough for most people and the best accessory package you can get.

[@tyyap76]

Another reason why the throttle input is limited at low speed is for tire life.

[@peterf1]

Nice review. I have to say, I'm not as nerdy as some, so the battery data was a bit lost on me, but I'll make this point about the Tesla 3: the thing that stands out most is how analog it is. Wait, what? Every petrolhead around the internet is bemoaning the end of "driver's cars" and how the electric car is going to neuter the automobile. In a surprising counter-intuitive manner, the Tesla 3 is the most direct steering, accelerating and braking car I've ever driven. My daily is a MK7 VW Golf 1.8T manual with a full Bilstein Cup Kit suspension upgrade and 18" Michelin Pilot Sport tires. It's a go kart. But I rented a Tesla 3 while on vacation with my wife in San Francisco and within a few blocks, I had mastered the 'no brake' experience inside the city. Getting on the road south to Monterey and Big Sur, the PCH is NOT the road you want to 'try out' an unfamiliar car with. There are sheer drops down to the ocean that are as jaw droppingly frightening, as they are beautiful. But the driving the Tesla was a transformative experience. Even my 'tightened up' VW doesn't have the direct feel of the Tesla's steering. Just think about changing direction and it goes. The 'gas' pedal is even more transformative. As cool as the city driving experience is, on the open road, with a little performance driving in mind (again, keeping the PCH in mind) the act of rolling off the accelerator as curves approach and then back on after you've apexed, is amazing. ALL cars have a bit of drivetrain slop. The Tesla has NONE, and that's where the magic is. It is so analog because it just reacts to your inputs, and for momentum performance driving where you want to maximize smoothness while rolling on and off the accelerator.... to me that's where the Tesla shines. Again, nice review. Subscribed.

[@nidog]

Wow. Westtown PA is 2 towns over from me. Glad to have you in PA

[@danw1684]

Bought M3 three weeks ago and love it. I charge it 100% all the time or at least when I can. Do you guys leave the car plugged in when you’re not driving even when it’s at 100%? Love to hear what others do.

[@catehutton2231]

Yes, I leave mine (2023 standard range with LFP battery) plugged in. Tesla suggests you keep it plugged in.

[@joseargonza7984]

Even with the markups and junk fees I was for the Bolt too, only it's perpetually "in transit." In exasperation I ended up with a 3.

[@saultknutz1166]

Just got my WOW M3SR last month. Best new car for $40k and below IMO. Phone app is great, excellent car features, drives great, excellent build quality, and one of the safest cars on the road...plus my kids love it!! Also just got the Park Assist update a few days ago, works fine...

[@danhdo8233]

i BOUGHT This a week ago for my wife driving part time to work and here and there at a short distance. It has been fun. I want to wait until the winter to see how it handles. Lifestyle changes a bit. She is not aggressive so no need a fast performance car. This fits her just fine.

[@mc333777]

My Son bought one three weeks ago. Same car. It was $38K PLUS fees. BUT after the credits, it was only $25K plus $4K purchase tax. These are the Credits he got: - $7500 Federal tax credit. - $7500 California EV rebate - $2400 Tesla non-configured inventory car discount, these discounts are automatically applied on Tesla cars that available at the lot (not a pre-ordered car). * He also got the Tesla full coverage car insurance which is $158/month, 23y/o with clean driving record. Whereas, AAA insurance quote was $3,300/year.

[@flattire707]

Just took my first drive with 11.3.2 and did so much better in some difficult turns. Major improvement in my 30 minute drive home.

[@73av8r5]

Nice. Still waiting…..🤷🏻‍♂️

[@flattire707]

OK, just got 11.4.1. Even better; smoother.

[@Tomaskom]

I did exactly as you said: I used the Model 3 SR as a benchmark when hunting for my first EV about a year ago. Ended up getting a second hand Peugeot e208, as I wanted a smaller, cheaper hatchback. It still performs formidably on long trips given the price difference, with it's 100kW charging and decent charging curve. Not many comparable options in that segment, can't wait for the ID.2 to hit production, that thing will sell like crazy in Europe. But for anyone with the budget and need for something bigger, TM3/TMY are definitely the go-to options!

[@TalismanPHX]

Thrilled to see you in my hometown. Beautiful Chester County countryside. 😊

[@forumtyish]

When you pointed out some of the quite glaring (to my eyes) panel gaps/alignment issues and then proceeded to dismiss them as things Tesla knows how to fix, well, if that's true then I would implore them to do it AT THE FACTORY so the initial quality assessments can go up and people don't need to ask to have their trunk lids, doors, headlamp housings, trim pieces, etc. adjusted at or after purchase by a service center or body shop. As an owner of a much earlier Model 3 I understood what I was getting into at the time, but have continued to resist getting another Tesla because every time I look at one fresh off the delivery truck they all have some combination of the same panel alignment issues as my five year old car. If Tesla has learned how to do panel fitment I'm not seeing it! Please don't continue to give Tesla a pass on this!

[@tom_hoots]

No worries, folks! Even though THE MOST OBVIOUS parts of the car that everyone can easily see aren't screwed together properly, JUST EXPECT EVERYTHING ELSE in the car to be put together PERFECTLY. "Gosh, or perhaps not."

[@shou635]

@@tom_hootsspoken by someone with no experience.

[@lgbtrain1]

Took delivery of this same model 3 last month. Wonderful! Only regret was not going for the white interior. However, I've bought white seat covers online and they fit perfectly and look amazing, saving me over $700!

[@ctfootdoc]

Where did you get those from thx 🙏🏽

[@lgbtrain1]

@@ctfootdoc amazon, paid $261, now $279. MAYSOO brand. Very nice.

[@Goliath7781]

We just got this exact spec. Ordered it sat and picked it up today. 2023 m3 It was in existing inventory.

[@tjs114]

LFP is actually just short handing of the periodical table of elements name for the elements in question. They used to be called LiFePO 4 because that was the full element name. Li for Lithium, Fe for Iron (Latin name, Ferrum) and phosphaste which is a Phosphorus atom with 4 Oxygen atoms linked to it. While not as power dense, the thing that sells me on LFP is that a punctured battery won't explode like a damaged NMC battery can. It's also why the house battery system I installed, by NeoVolta, uses LFP instead of NMC.

[@SteveRowe]

Glad to hear the shout-out for the Chevy Bolt for commuters. I love my Bolt as my daily driver, but it's a pain to take on long trips. But it's $15,000 less than the low-end model 3. I'm gonna have to wait for Tesla's $25k car.

[@KaiPonte]

I was so looking forward to the Bolt. I had a. Malibu hybrid and kept reading about the Bolt. Then it dropped. It was / is so small!

[@SteveRowe]

@@KaiPonte It's smaller than a malibu for sure, but it is like a Tardis: bigger on the inside than it looks on the outside. TONS of room in the back, especially if you fold down the seats.

[@austina4189]

Used teslas can be found for $25k, and there's a tax credit for under $25k too. My 3 long range was $24,XXX in great condition

[@fluffysheap]

You're hard pressed to find a Model 3 used for under $30k. You can maybe get a ten year old Model S for right at $25k.

[@Zamsonj]

The tech and convenience in the Tesla is something you can’t buy anywhere else. At least for a comparable price. I got our 2023 Tesla Model Y before 3 weeks for my wife. It’s awesome. And @Kyle, you are welcome to pass by. I live in West Chester, the other half of West Town.

[@Samuel-ks5gv]

I’ve read that when Tesla designed the model 3 NCA pack, they prioritized minimizing vampire drain over quick cell balancing, and so balancing can take over 3 hours. I assume this is the case for the LFP pack as well. If so, maybe the best practice for LFP pack longevity is to once a week time the charge session to 100% 5 hours before your morning commute, then aim for 40% SOC for the rest of the week (I personally would just plug in each night set to 80% for practicality). I’ve seen some youtube videos complaining of 10% LFP degradation after a year, maybe people are leaving it at 100% for too long.

[@davidradzieta6458]

10^ is better than the NCA80 Panasonic batteries.

[@tomstdenis]

21:37 "100% charging is new" ... not really. In both the Volt and Bolt a "100%" state of charge is not 100% per cell. IIRC the Volt charges to just below 4.1V (out of 4.2V) and the Bolt charges to 4.25V (out of 4.6V). I 100% charged my Volt and it had just as much battery range on the first km as the 53,000th when I sold it.

[@RyanWilliams222]

Don’t plug-in hybrids have more capacity reserved in order to maximize long-term battery health? Because you can afford to do so when it’s only 10-20 kWh, not 60+ kWh? (My wife drives a Prius Prime and I don’t remember the exact numbers, but there’s a ridiculous buffer of something like 20% on the top and bottom.)

[@paulroberts2549]

I bought this car in September and we absolutely love it. With the 7500 tax credit it’s a no brainer. It’s front seats r very comfortable the technology u get is like a premium car has.

[@chrisr_88]

Got mind in early 2021 for $32K. Such a great deal for this car.

[@bladimirgenoves1080]

Thanks for the info, I just got one yesterday and still waiting on my charger. This will be my daily drive.

[@DrMJBull]

I really want to thank you guys for helping my decision process for my latest car purchase. My current ride is a 2014 Tesla Model S 90 RWD with 190k miles. I nearly pulled the trigger on an Ioniq 6 RWD in silver with the 361 miles of range. Your last video on the Ioniq really made me think why I was really looking away from Tesla. Well, today I found my next ride. A 2020 Tesla Model 3 Performace in white w 20 inch gray performance wheels, carbon fiber spoiler, and 25k miles, FSD included, from Colorado, for $43,300. I think its a decent deal, I dont really care about FSD either but I think it will help the resale value a bit whenever I end up flipping it. Again, THANKS to you and your Dad for reminding me that the specs on Tesla really still cant be beat for the money. 😁👍

[@georgepelton5645]

For long term storage, 50% SOC provides longer life for LFP as well as NCM or NCA. I would have to double check test results for calendar life at different SOC to be sure of that. It has been years since I have seen test data, but that is how I remember it.

[@brianboru1975]

Love my 2022 RWD Model 3 and all of your channels. Thank you for the content and keep it coming!

[@Andre-cj3ec]

In Canada, until the January price reductions, no Tesla qualified for federal EV subsidies. Now, this is the only model that does. I agree with Kyle, more than ever, this is the benchmark. Whatever EV you have on order, you should compare to this version of the Model 3. Glad to see Dave is happy with it!

[@cybrtrkguy]

Model Y SR was the best-valued vehicle Tesla has ever produced. Bought mine for $39k in March of 2021, and I've put 60k miles on it since!

[@XKS99]

How much range do you get 80% to 20% ?

[@terrylueders]

Double Kyle! Super info in a very short time! Love it!

[@abeltran2010]

I bought one and picking it up today! Great video as always and makes me feel better you guys recommend it!