17/03/2022
In the current climate of soaring fuel prices and the ever-increasing cost of new electric vehicles (EVs), many rideshare drivers are seeking more economical alternatives. The Tesla Model S, once a symbol of futuristic luxury, is now appearing more frequently on Uber and Lyft platforms. But is a used Model S a viable option for drivers looking to save money and impress passengers? This article delves into what it's like to drive a Tesla Model S for rideshare, exploring its appeal, its drawbacks, and whether it represents a smart investment.
What is a Tesla Model S?
The Tesla Model S, introduced in 2012, was a game-changer for the electric vehicle market. It was the first long-range, mass-produced electric car that successfully challenged the perception of EVs as quirky, underperforming vehicles. Instead, it positioned electric cars as desirable, high-performance machines. With a starting price of around $69,000 (before tax credits), it wasn't a budget car, but its impact on the automotive industry was undeniable, pushing established manufacturers to accelerate their EV development.
Early reviews lauded the Model S for its sleek design, impressive acceleration, and innovative technology. It was hailed as a revolutionary vehicle, capable of delivering a luxurious and exciting driving experience. Even a decade later, the Model S continues to turn heads and elicit admiration.
Driving a Tesla Model S for Uber
The experience of driving a used Tesla Model S, such as a well-maintained 2015 Model S 85D, can be remarkably smooth and comfortable. Passengers often remark on the quiet and refined ride, contrasting with expectations of a harsher EV experience. The steering is responsive, and the suspension handles various road conditions with ease, from speed bumps to potholes.
The Model S is often described as a car that defies easy categorization – it’s plush, luxurious, sporty, and practical. This versatility makes it appealing for rideshare work. The instant torque and powerful acceleration, with models boasting around 400 horsepower, provide an exhilarating driving experience. While the cabin noise isn't at the ultra-luxury levels of a Bentley, it's still remarkably quiet compared to many other vehicles.
The interior, while minimalist in design, offers comfortable seating for long drives. Many older models feature physical controls for steering wheel adjustment and mirrors, which some drivers find more intuitive than all-touchscreen interfaces. However, interior quality can be a mixed bag, with some premium materials like Alcantara and soft leather contrasting with cheaper plastic components. Despite these inconsistencies, the overall impression is one of luxury and sophistication, often meeting or exceeding passenger expectations for a premium rideshare service.
Interior Quality: A Mixed Bag
While Tesla is known for its cutting-edge technology and sleek design, the interior quality of older Model S vehicles can vary. Some examples feature luxurious touches like Alcantara headliners and high-quality leather upholstery, contributing to a premium feel. However, other areas might exhibit more basic plastics, which can sometimes feel less robust or develop rattles over time. This inconsistency is a common observation across many Tesla models and is something potential buyers should be aware of.
Performance and Ride Comfort
The defining characteristic of the Model S is its performance. The instant torque delivery provides rapid acceleration, making overtakes effortless and adding an element of fun to everyday driving. The suspension is well-tuned, offering a balance between comfort and sporty handling. This means that while the car can accelerate quickly, it also provides a comfortable ride for passengers, absorbing road imperfections effectively. Many passengers have expressed surprise at how smooth and composed the ride is, especially when compared to their expectations of electric vehicles.
Range & Charging of the Tesla Model S
For rideshare drivers, range and charging infrastructure are critical. The Tesla Model S 85D, for instance, had an EPA-estimated range of 270 miles when new. In real-world conditions, this translates to approximately 250 miles, with a practical limit of around 225 miles if drivers adhere to Tesla's recommendation of keeping daily charges below 90% to preserve battery health.
For many drivers, this range is sufficient for a full day's work. When more range is needed, Tesla's Supercharger network offers a convenient solution. Supercharging is relatively quick, typically adding about 150 miles of range in 30 minutes. The charging process is seamless, involving simply plugging in the charging handle without the need for payment cards or apps.
Free Supercharging: The Catch
A significant perk for early Model S and Model X owners (cars built before 2020) was free, unlimited Supercharging for the life of the car. However, there are important caveats. The terms of service often prohibit commercial use, though enforcement is unclear. Additionally, free Supercharging may not be transferable to a new owner unless the car is sold directly by Tesla. A workaround involves the original owner not removing the car from their account, but this is not always practical.
Charging Costs
When Supercharging isn't free, costs can range from $0.20 to $0.50 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), depending on location and time of day. This means adding 100 miles of range could cost between $6 and $16. Charging at home using a 240V outlet during off-peak hours is a significantly cheaper alternative.
Charging Speed Comparison
Older Model S vehicles, while faster than many contemporary EVs, charge slower than the latest generation of Teslas. Peak charging rates are around 100 kWh, but this speed decreases as the battery fills. This is still considerably faster than many other EVs from the same era.
Tesla Model S Tech
The centerpiece of the Model S interior is its large touchscreen, which was revolutionary when first introduced and remains impressive today. This interface controls most vehicle functions, offers entertainment options, and receives over-the-air updates, ensuring the car stays current with new features and software improvements. Many older models have had these units replaced under warranty or by owners seeking upgrades.
While the lack of native Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support can be a minor inconvenience for rideshare drivers who rely on these platforms for navigation and music, the ample USB ports and robust Bluetooth connectivity mitigate this. The car's integrated navigation system is generally reliable and comparable to newer vehicles. Compared to the complex interfaces found in many other 10-year-old luxury cars, the Model S's tech remains user-friendly and advanced.
The primary advantage of using a Tesla Model S for rideshare is its low operating cost. The savings on fuel alone can be substantial when compared to a gasoline-powered luxury sedan. Furthermore, the Model S is eligible for premium rideshare services like Uber Black and Lyft Lux, increasing earning potential. Despite not qualifying for Uber Comfort on pre-2015 models, these vehicles are eligible for Uber Comfort Electric.
The Model S offers ample passenger and luggage space, comfortably accommodating five adults and their luggage. What Car? magazine reported fitting 11 roller bags into the front and rear trunks of a Model S. The ease of entry and exit, thanks to well-designed door handles, also contributes to a positive passenger experience.
Cost Savings Over Time
The financial benefits of operating a Model S for rideshare can be significant. Over 200,000 miles, the savings on fuel compared to a 400-horsepower luxury car like a Mercedes S-Class can amount to tens of thousands of dollars. Even factoring in potential maintenance costs, the overall running expenses are considerably lower.
The ability to qualify for premium services such as Uber Black and Lyft Lux is a major draw for drivers. These services typically command higher fares, allowing drivers to maximize their earnings per trip. The luxurious and high-tech image of the Model S directly supports its eligibility for these premium tiers.
Despite its advantages, there are notable drawbacks to using a used Model S for rideshare. The primary concern is the cost and reliability of maintaining an older luxury EV. While energy costs are low, wear-and-tear items like tires can be expensive, and high-mileage vehicles of any make are prone to component failures.
The most significant potential expense is battery replacement. While batteries are designed to last for hundreds of thousands of miles, replacement can be costly, potentially running into thousands of pounds. Although many older Model S vehicles are still on the road with their original batteries, it's a risk that needs to be considered, especially for cars approaching or exceeding 300,000 miles.
Tire Wear and Maintenance
The instant torque and performance characteristics of the Model S can lead to accelerated tire wear. Drivers who frequently utilize the car's acceleration will likely need to replace tires more often than in a less performance-oriented vehicle. Routine maintenance, while generally less frequent than with internal combustion engine cars, still involves safety checks and potential repairs to suspension components, interior trim, and other parts that can wear out over time.
Battery Replacement Costs
The lifespan of a Tesla battery is a critical factor. While Tesla batteries are generally robust, they do degrade over time and mileage. A full battery replacement can be one of the most expensive repairs a Model S owner might face, potentially costing upwards of £15,000-£20,000. While many owners have reported long battery life, it's a significant financial risk for a rideshare vehicle that accumulates high mileage quickly. Some million-mile Model S taxis and limousines are known to have had multiple battery replacements.
Purchasing a first-generation Tesla Model S for rideshare involves calculated risks. The reliability of early models can be inconsistent, and the potential cost of battery and component replacement is high. However, the risk is not as insurmountable as it might seem.
Tesla has been known to provide out-of-warranty repairs at no cost in certain situations, particularly for recalls or known issues. Many owners have reported successful repairs for components like door handles and displays, even after the standard warranty had expired. However, if you don't benefit from such goodwill, repairs can be very expensive, leading some owners to describe their Teslas as "money pits."
Common issues beyond door handles and displays include suspension components (control arms, bushings), interior trim, trunk latches, and even drive motors. Repairs are often limited to Tesla's service centers, where pricing is typically non-negotiable.
Which Tesla Model S Should You Get?
When looking at used Model S vehicles, understanding the naming convention is helpful. 'P' indicates performance-oriented models, the numbers refer to battery capacity in kWh, and 'D' signifies all-wheel drive. It's advisable to target models with 70 kWh batteries or larger. Prioritise vehicles with remaining battery warranty and a thorough service history, ideally one that includes previous recall or warranty work. A car that has already had a battery replacement might offer more peace of mind, as newer batteries are expected to last longer.
Battery and Powertrain Warranty
For Model S and Model X vehicles built before 2020 with 70 kWh batteries or larger, there's an eight-year, unlimited-mileage warranty on the battery and powertrain from the original in-service date. Smaller batteries (40 and 60 kWh) have an eight-year, 125,000-mile warranty. While this warranty is a significant benefit, it's important to note that Tesla may use reconditioned parts, and only faulty cells need to be replaced, not the entire battery pack. The replaced battery is guaranteed only until the end of the original warranty period and must retain at least 70% of its original capacity.
For those who are risk-averse, it's wise to buy a Model S with sufficient time left on the battery warranty to recoup a significant portion of the car's purchase price. For the less cautious, a car that has already undergone battery replacement might be a more attractive proposition.
Takeaways for Drivers
If the primary goal is maximum financial return on investment, a Toyota Prius might be a more sensible choice. However, for drivers who appreciate luxury, technology, and the prestige of a high-end vehicle, and who can secure a well-maintained used Model S at a significant discount, it can be a compelling option for rideshare work.
The ability to offer premium services, impress passengers with a smooth and quiet ride, and potentially leverage free charging makes the Model S an attractive proposition. It's a piece of automotive history that can be driven daily, offering a unique blend of performance and luxury. However, thorough research and a careful inspection of any potential purchase are absolutely essential. Don't rely solely on one article or video; conduct your own due diligence.
Final Considerations
The decision to buy a used Tesla Model S for rideshare is a significant one. It requires a balance of embracing the potential cost savings and luxury experience against the inherent risks of purchasing an older, high-technology vehicle. If you are a savvy buyer who can identify a well-maintained example and manage potential maintenance costs, an older Model S could indeed be a profitable and enjoyable rideshare vehicle.
Would a used Model S work for you? Share your thoughts in the comments below or join the conversation in our Uber & Lyft EV Drivers Facebook group.
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