As a fully certified and authorized San Diego Tesla repair facility, we are luxury EV experts. We’ve seen the repair angle and we’re sharing our insider knowledge of what to look for before choosing a Tesla, Rivian, or Lucid.
If your Tesla or other luxury electric car needs repairs, please call us at (760) 433-5050 or email us to learn how we can help.
What to consider when you’re shopping for a luxury EV
Today’s best electric cars are more than just a mode of transportation from A to B. They’re also an expression of your values. Let’s consider the utilitarian points you need to keep in mind, as well as what makes the Tesla, Rivian, and Lucid EVs the best of the best.
Electric car mileage range on full charge
EV buyers fear running out of battery power while driving. This is sometimes referred to as “range anxiety.” Consumer Reports says this fear is often overstated. In reality, regular EV drivers often forgo even daily charging simply because they don’t need to.
Do keep the maximum range of your electric car in mind when thinking about traveling and commuting to work. Most models come in at an average of 200 miles on a “full tank” with some providing only 100 miles and others promising 400. ABC News found an average American’s commute is only 32 miles round trip.
Electric vehicle price
California buyers can apply for a rebate of up to $7,000 for the purchase or lease of a new EV or hybrid vehicle. And don’t forget the $7500 federal tax credit, although currently phasing out for Tesla vehicles. The Tesla Model 3 is a more affordable luxury EV at $30,000. The Lucid Motors and Rivian models start at $67,000 and up.
Cargo space
Families usually need space and storage. For a tall driver, headroom is a must. Before buying into the electric car hype and ending up with a sports car that can’t support your camping trips, make sure you study all the ins and outs of the vehicle! Some electric models are definitely geared to the young professional who only needs to transport a briefcase, whereas others focus on a large trunk and easy access to the backseat. Tesla models offer a salon fit reminiscent of a Jaguar. The Rivian R1T truck is practical for a lot of cargo transport.
Look and feel
Electric vehicles, just like regular modern models, offer a wide range of look and feel. And take notice of your test drive – electric cars are quiet, almost silent, which can be a new experience to get used to.
Electric Car Charging infrastructure & travelling
Consider where you will charge your vehicle. Electric car charging stations are more and more common in public, but at home, you may need to have a professional electrician install a charging port. If your city has tiered pricing for electricity usage, you can help conserve electricity and save money at the same time by charging your vehicle at night during the hours that cost the least.
What you should know about the Tesla Electric Car
With a Tesla you get a luxurious, very fast vehicle with positive brand recognition. Tesla sits at the very top of the EV market in the United States. Teslas are powerful electric vehicles that now come at different price points between $30,000 to $70,000, accommodating a wide range of luxury EV buyers.
- Tesla Model S has the longest driving range at 405 miles with top speed clocking in at 155mph
- Tesla Model Y can comfortably fit 7 passengers and has the largest cargo capacity at 68 cubic feet
- Tesla Model 3 is the most affordable model featuring RWD and top speed of 140mph
- Tesla’s newest project in development, Model S Plaid+, will have a top speed of 200 mph and a 390+ mile range
What you should know about the Rivian R1T
Rivian is a new Tesla contender making waves in the market. Rivian R1T is a powerful electric truck built for off-road adventures and city exploring. Rivian R1S is a spacious SUV ready for any trail, street, and road. The pickup R1T model starts at $67,500 and the R1S SUV starts at $70,000.
- Rivian R1T has genuine off road capability and can tow up to 11,000 lbs
- The electric pickup also boasts 573 horsepower and has an abundance of storage
- Rivian R1S SUV tows up to 7,700 lbs and accelerates 0-60mph in only 3 seconds
- From 130F to -25F, engineers developed Rivian vehicles to perform best in worst weather conditions
What you should know about the Lucid EV
Lucid made a name for itself supplying batteries to Formula E race cars. We have yet to see a Lucid EV hit the road. Lucid promises to deliver its luxury flagship model Lucid Air sedan “sometime in the second half of 2021”. The Lucid Air Pure starts at $69,900 and is scheduled for 2022. The Lucid Air Dream Edition fulfilled reservations at $161,500, with other models falling somewhere in between.
- Lucid Air Pure brings 480 horsepower and a range of 406 miles on a single charge
- Lucid Air Touring features a dual motor with AWD capability and 620 horsepower
- Lucid Air Grand Touring comes with a glass canopy roof, 800 horsepower, and 517 miles of projected range
- The sold out Lucid Air Dream Edition boasts 1080 horsepower with an exclusive interior trim
Tesla Repair San Diego
One of the most important things to consider when purchasing a luxury electric vehicle is where you will take it for repair. Not every auto shop can work on EVs. And those that do are not all trained in the special care required of luxury EVs. Chris Amato’s Body Werks is a fully certified and authorized Tesla repair shop in San Diego. We truly know Teslas inside and out.
We are excited to be participating in the selection process for becoming a certified repair facility for Rivian and Lucid luxury vehicles as well. Stay tuned! To learn how we can help with your Tesla, Rivian, or Lucid repairs, please call us at (760) 433-5050 or email us to learn more.
Written by: Sonya Gankina
