Billy69_uk
Well-known member
I don't get the "build quality" argument against Tesla either to be honest, yes it's not perfect but what is? I've had issues with almost every Audi, BMW, VW and Merc and seen some shockers much worse on the missus cars. The thing is, the missus cars have about 0.1% of the tech, style, fun and comfort, and are absolutely horrendous to drive, so can't really compare those, it's not like for like.
Most of the Audi, BMW and Mercs are all in the price/ class vicinity of Telsa EV's, albeit their EV's cost more than Telsas for similar levels of class/ performance. The build may not be as good for Tesla, but they don't cost as much and have better tech. The build quality of cheaper Audi's and BMW's isn't as good as their pricier models also.
"Build quality" is a box to tick, but it's not in the top 5 things I look for to be honest, which are normally tech, style, looks, performance, practicality and all of that compared to the 3-5 year cost forecast. Build quality is yay or nay, if something breaks, it's under warranty. If the panel gap is 3mm bigger, I don't care, not when the other factors outweigh it. I think the Tesla's received a 5-star safety rating too, not really important to me, but will be for lots.
I am convinced that Tesla's long term play isnt in cars at all. its in batteries and energy (hydrogen, solar etc) and that cars are the disruptor they want/need to drive the widespread adoption of battery technology in the consumer world.
At some point they will produce batteries or cells or pouches for other manufacturers with much higher volumes, then they will focus on that for growth and dominance as the car manufacturers start to cotton on to how much it costs to develop their own batteries and fuel cells. We have seen a similar thing in recent years with competing car brands sharing engine platforms or even chassis's.