The Costly California Road Trip: A Tesla Owner's Experience
A California resident's recent journey from Northern to Southern California in her Tesla has sparked a heated debate on social media. The TikTok user, known as Tesla Blondie, shared her experience, highlighting the costs and the use of Tesla's Full Self-Driving (Supervised) feature.
The Expensive Journey
Tesla Blondie's road trip from NoCal to SoCal was an eye-opening experience, especially regarding the financial implications. The total cost of electric charging for the 485-mile journey was a staggering $54.57. This figure sparked curiosity and concern among commenters, with some questioning the high cost compared to traditional fuel vehicles.
FSD and the Nagging System
One of the most debated aspects of Tesla Blondie's journey was her use of Full Self-Driving (Supervised). Some commenters criticized her for driving at slow speeds, with one person expressing frustration at 43 mph on the freeway. However, others praised the FSD system, noting that it made slow highway speeds more manageable.
The FSD system's attention monitoring, utilizing in-cabin cameras, is a key feature. Tesla's manual confirms that the system can detect driver attentiveness even without full visibility of the driver's eyes. Interestingly, some Tesla owners have claimed that sunglasses can interfere with this system, allowing them to look down at their phones while the car drives itself.
However, others reported different experiences, stating that their Teslas still require hands on the steering wheel while wearing sunglasses. This discrepancy highlights the ongoing debate about the reliability of FSD and the need for constant human supervision.
Time and Distance
The duration of Tesla Blondie's journey also raised eyebrows. The 10-hour drive from Northern to Southern California surprised many, with some comparing it to their own experiences in traditional vehicles. One commenter mentioned a 600-mile trip in a hybrid car for only $30, while another praised their Honda's efficiency in covering 485 miles in 4.5 hours.
The Cost Debate
The $54.57 charging cost for the trip was a significant talking point. Some found it excessive, while others attributed it to the high energy demands of electric vehicles. The comparison with traditional fuel vehicles and the potential for cost savings in the long run remained a topic of discussion.
The FSD Debate Continues
The FSD system's capabilities and limitations continue to be a subject of debate. While some praise its efficiency and convenience, others express concerns about its reliability and the need for constant human oversight. The use of sunglasses and their impact on the system's functionality adds another layer of complexity to the discussion.
Conclusion
Tesla Blondie's journey has sparked a much-needed conversation about the costs, reliability, and user experience of electric vehicles and their autonomous driving features. As the technology evolves, it is essential to address these concerns and provide transparent information to potential buyers.
