The EV Experience: From Tesla to Gasoline

One common question in the automotive industry is whether someone who has experienced electric vehicles (EVs) will return to gasoline-powered cars. Many factors influence this choice, and often, the journey from a gasoline car to an EV is a one-way ticket. Many who have tried an EV experience find it so convenient and reliable that they never go back.

From Tesla to Gasoline: My Journey

I purchased my first Tesla in 2019, and it quickly became a part of my life. However, when our family needed to add another car to our collection in 2024, we didn't even consider a gasoline car. Instead, we opted for another EV. Currently, there isn't a single gasoline car in the family, and we're unlikely to revert to this choice. While a Tesla isn't perfect, its practicality and reliability in electric vehicle driving are unmatched by any other car I have owned.

Software Bugs and Reliability

A common misperception about Teslas is the claim that there are "no software bugs." However, experience shows that there are quite a few. Despite our vehicle coming with Full Self-Driving (FSD), I rarely use it because it just isn't reliable enough for everyday use. Nevertheless, the core feature of an EV, the ability to drive without stopping for fuel, is unmatched by any gasoline car.

Personal Anecdotes and Experiences

While I lived in California, I owned a Nissan Leaf. I loved it for its ease of driving, affordability, and the fact that it allowed me to use the carpool lane. Additionally, the charging infrastructure in California was excellent. Over a half-hour at the grocery store would see my Leaf charged to eighty percent. Contrast this with my time in downtown Pittsburgh, where I lived in an apartment with no chargers in the parking garage. The lack of charging infrastructure and the need to pay for parking made me reconsider my choice. I eventually sold the Leaf and bought a BMW.

Now that I've moved back to a house with ample space, I'm inclined to return to an EV. I was considering a Tesla Model 3 but couldn't stand its minimalist interior. However, I've heard good things about the new Ford models, and it could be time to make the switch.

Ownership Structure

I own a total of two electric and three non-electric cars, making for a diverse array of vehicles in my collection. While I enjoy driving all of them, I operate a gasoline car strictly for places where physical damage is likely. My gas SUV serves as a "dirty tasks" vehicle, handling tasks that require more brute force. With the advent of electric trucks and sports cars, I know I could make these dirty tasks vehicles electric, but I want to preserve the beauty and value of my electric vehicles.

Ultimately, the decision to return to a gasoline car is highly personal. While some people might prefer the simplicity and convenience of an EV, others might find themselves drawn to the power and range of a gasoline car. However, statistics and personal experiences suggest that once someone has experienced the practicality and reliability of an EV, it's often a one-way street.