Tesla, Inc.'s TSLA Model Y was the bestselling vehicle among all cars — not just among electric vehicles — in the first quarter. Yet, not everyone is impressed with the all-electric SUV from the Elon Musk-led company's stable.
What Happened: Tech YouTuber Austin Evans said in a video published on May 17 that he had sold a Tesla 2021 Model Y Performance he had owned for almost two years.
“There are some things I like about it, but a whole lot more that I absolutely do not,” he said.
Among the vehicle’s positive features were its performance (specifically speed), decently sized trunk and a lot of extra space in the back apart from the frunk, Evans said. He also lauded the availability and reliability of Tesla’s Supercharger network.
See Also: Best Electric Vehicle Stocks
The Pushback: On the other hand, the YouTuber said he had issues with the build quality of the vehicle. He noted that the working of the door handle of his Model Y wasn't as simple as it should have been.
Evans also said unlocking the vehicle posed a problem. Unlocking the vehicle is done in two ways: using the little card-like key to tap on the car’s B pillar or using Bluetooth on one's smartphone. Most of the time, the latter option didn't work as it should have, Evans said.
The YouTuber also noted that the covers of the seat controls came loose, that there were panel gaps and that the speaker on the right passenger door was not screwed in correctly. He also took exception to the vehicle’s 21-inch wheels, the summer tires and the interior design that lacked a dashboard.
Evans took a swipe at Tesla for not spending enough on research and development compared to other legacy automakers, despite the EV giant making a hefty profit on each vehicle sold.
“It was like death by a thousand cuts,” Evans reportedly told Business Insider, adding that “[there] were just a bunch of little issues that piled up.”
The Switchover: At the end of the YouTube video, Evans showed his new car, a Mercedes-Benz Group AG's EQS SUV.
Evans said he wasn't impressed with Tesla's Model X following a test drive, according toBusiness Insider. He reportedly equated being in a Tesla to being in an Ikea, adding that “the Mercedes feels like you're in a private jet.”
Tesla closed Friday’s session at $193.17, up 4.17%, according to Benzinga Pro data.
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