The Unyielding Journey of a High-Mileage Tesla Model S: A Tale of Durability and Bargains

Discover the Saga of a Seasoned Tesla Model S and Its Exceptional Journey Beyond the Half-Million Mile Mark.

The Allure of a High-Mileage Tesla

There's something undeniably captivating about a Tesla Model S that has seen more of the world than many of us ever will. With a history as a taxi, this electric stalwart has not only survived but thrived, traversing the roads of Europe and bearing witness to countless stories along the way. The odometer's high numbers speak volumes about the car's reliability and the potential longevity of electric vehicles as a whole.

Europe has seen a surge in the use of electric vehicles as taxis, with countries like the Netherlands, Germany, and the UK leading the charge. These cars, often covering vast distances, serve as real-world test beds for the endurance of electric mobility, with some Tesla Model S sedans surpassing the impressive 450,000-mile mark.

The Bargain Hunt for a Tesla Model S

For the intrepid YouTuber Alex Kersten, the search for the most affordable Tesla Model S became an adventure in itself. His discovery: a 2017 Model S 90D, boasting over 450,000 miles on the clock, initially listed at a price that would make any electric vehicle enthusiast's heart skip a beat. Yet, through shrewd negotiation, highlighting the car's imperfections, he managed to secure this electric treasure for a sum that rivals the cost of Tesla's Full Self-Driving program.

The quest for such a vehicle is not for the faint of heart. It requires a willingness to embrace the car's storied past and the potential for hidden faults. However, the reward for such bravery could be a piece of electric vehicle history, acquired at a fraction of the cost of a new model.

Signs of Wear and Tear

Despite its impressive mileage, the Tesla Model S in question does not escape the ravages of time and use unscathed. A closer inspection reveals a mosaic of minor issues: a nonfunctional headlight, a hood slightly marred by a wiper arm, and a rear camera and taillight that have succumbed to the elements, showing signs of water ingress. Even the shock absorbers, upon examination, betray the car's extensive use with evidence of leakage.

Yet, these blemishes do not detract from the car's overall performance. They serve as badges of honor, each telling a story of the miles traveled and the experiences had. It's a reminder that even the most robust machines are not immune to wear, but with care and attention, they can continue to serve faithfully.

The Value Proposition of an Aged Tesla

One might wonder what drives an individual to invest in a high-mileage electric vehicle. The answer lies in the surprising state of the Tesla's interior, which, against all odds, shows minimal signs of wear. It's a testament to the quality of materials used and the care taken by its numerous drivers over the years. For a car that has served as a taxi, the interior's pristine condition is nothing short of miraculous.

The value of such a purchase extends beyond the initial savings. It's an opportunity to own a piece of pioneering technology, a vehicle that has proven its mettle on the road and continues to defy expectations regarding the durability of electric vehicles.

The Unknowns of a Veteran Electric Vehicle

While the history of this Tesla Model S is well documented, certain details remain shrouded in mystery. The number of motors it has employed in its journey and the state of its original battery pack are questions left unanswered. These unknowns add an element of intrigue to the vehicle, inviting speculation and further investigation into the resilience of electric vehicle components over time.

For reference, the highest-mileage Tesla Model S known to date has traveled over 1.2 million miles, cycling through an astonishing 14 motors and four battery packs. The story of Alex's Model S is still unfolding, and the electric vehicle community eagerly awaits further details on its capabilities and the longevity of its vital components.