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By Kevin Armstrong

Tesla has added Satin Abyss Blue to its collection of wrap colors

In a move that combines aesthetic expansion with affordability, Tesla has not only introduced a new Paint Protection Film (PPF) color, Satin Abyss Blue, but also significantly slashed the prices of its wrap offerings. This new color joins a diverse palette, marking the eighth option in Tesla’s PPF lineup.

Pricing Strategy: A Shift Towards Affordability

Originally launched in October 2023, Tesla’s PPF wraps were initially priced between $7,500 and $8,000. Though reflective of the premium quality, this pricing was a significant investment for Tesla owners. Many believed the price was two to three times what a high-quality wrap costs at auto shops. Perhaps Telsa was testing the market as the price tag was slashed four months later to a more affordable range of $5,700 to $6,000.

The price adjustment may be a strategic decision to broaden the appeal of these wraps, making them a more feasible option for a larger segment of Tesla owners. However, the service is currently only available at two Tesla locations in California. The company would likely expand the service to other locations if the demand picks up due to the improved price point.

Current PPF Wrap Options and Pricing

The revised pricing structure now makes the following options more attainable:

  • Glacier Blue: $6,000

  • Forest Green: $6,000

  • Satin Rose Gold: $6,000

  • Slip Gray: $5,700

  • Satin Ceramic White: $5,700

  • Satin Stealth Black: $5,700

  • Crimson Red: $6,000

  • Clear Satin or Gloss: $5,000

  • Satin Abyss Blue: $6,000 (new addition)

The consistency in pricing across most colors, including the new Satin Abyss Blue, shows Tesla’s approach to offering a uniform pricing strategy for its custom PPF options.

Benefits of Tesla’s PPF Wraps

Tesla’s PPF wraps are not just an aesthetic upgrade. They are a practical investment offering several benefits:

  1. Self-Healing Technology: The urethane-based film is designed to recover from minor abrasions while maintaining a flawless appearance.

  2. Enhanced Protection: Being twice as thick as typical vinyl wraps, Tesla’s PPF offers superior safeguarding against scratches and environmental damage.

  3. Eco-Friendly Choice: Aligning with Tesla’s sustainability goals, these wraps are more environmentally friendly than traditional options.

While these colored PPF wraps are currently limited to the Model 3 and Model Y, there’s also the option of a black or white wrap available for the Cybertruck for $6,000. Meanwhile, a clear satin wrap for the Cybertruck runs $5,000, the same price as the Model 3/Y clear option.

The Cybertruck has been seen in various unique wraps

There’s growing excitement about the potential of wider color availability for the Cybertruck, which has appeared in several unique wraps. Tesla’s wrapping service has the potential to enhance the customization options for owners, allowing their cars to stand out from other Teslas. The free color option, currently stealth gray, can sometimes result in a cluster of similar-looking Teslas at a particular location.

Tesla’s decision to launch and expand its PPF range resonates with its strategy to offer more personalized options to its customers. This move parallels Tesla’s initiatives in China, where the company already offers a wrapping service catering to customers’ desires for a unique vehicle appearance.

By Kevin Armstrong

ElectricDrive 2 Debutes for EVs

If you’ve mistakenly put normal tires on your Tesla, you quickly understand why special EV tires are needed. It may also be the closest you’ll get to what Fred Flinstone’s car must’ve sounded like. The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has announced the launch of the Goodyear ElectricDrive 2. This innovative tire, unveiled at CES 2024, is poised to elevate the driving experience for EV owners.

Listening to EV Owners

Goodyear has listened to EV drivers’ needs. Recent consumer research conducted by the company highlights two critical aspects for EV owners: a quiet ride and exceptional wet-road performance. The ElectricDrive 2 addresses these needs with its SoundComfort Technology. This built-in sound barrier significantly reduces interior vehicle noise, a particularly beneficial feature for inherently quieter EVs.

The all-season tire also boasts an asymmetric tread pattern designed to optimize grip and responsiveness on both wet and dry roads. This feature is crucial for EVs like Tesla, known for their rapid acceleration and need for responsive handling. The long-lasting tread compound is another standout, crafted to endure and provide more mileage for EV drivers — a vital attribute considering the instant torque and potential for quicker tread wear in EVs.

Sustainability is a Priority

Many EV drivers are environmentally conscious. Therefore, the ElectricDrive 2, an all-season tire, is not just any addition to Goodyear’s acclaimed lineup. The new tire comprises at least 50% of its composition derived from sustainable materials. This includes using soybean oil, rice husk ash silica, and sustainably sourced natural rubber. Such a leap in sustainable manufacturing is a significant step towards a greener future, aligning perfectly with the ethos of Tesla and its user base, who value eco-friendly innovations.

Aerodynamics and efficiency are also at the forefront of the ElectricDrive 2’s design. The tire features an aerodynamic sidewall and an innovative compound that lowers aerodynamic drag and enables lower rolling resistance. This particularly benefits the range-conscious EV driver, as reduced rolling resistance can translate to extended driving range. Considering the range was just adjusted for a few Tesla models, these new tires are a welcome addition.

The Goodyear ElectricDrive 2 is set to hit the markets in May 2024 and will be available in 17 sizes to fit a range of consumer EV sedans and CUVs. This tire represents a significant leap forward in performance, sustainability, and driving pleasure for Tesla owners and EV enthusiasts.

By Kevin Armstrong

New Model 3 Now Available in North America

Tesla has officially released the much-anticipated new Model 3 in North America. This launch follows its successful debut in several global markets, including Europe, China, and parts of the Asia-Pacific region, in late 2023. Before you run out and buy one, you should know that this vehicle does not quality for any tax incentives in the U.S. Also, Tesla is not accepting referral codes, meaning no discounts or credits for the Model 3.

The new Model 3, also referred to as the Highland and the refreshed 3, appeared on the company’s website late Tuesday night. It is currently available in two variants: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) and Long Range (LR). Notably, the Performance model, which has been a popular choice in previous versions, is missing from the lineup, and the “old” version is no longer available for order.

Competitive Pricing Strategy

Despite several upgrades, Tesla has set competitive prices for the new Model 3 variants, not changing the price for the new edition. The RWD remains at $38,990 USD and the LR is $45,990 USD. For those keeping score, the price of the old Model 3 Performance was $50,990. The first deliveries of the Model 3 Highland are scheduled for this month.

The new Model 3 is available in five colors, including Stealth Gray and Ultra Red, adding a fresh aesthetic appeal to the range. Despite the excitement surrounding the new model, it is noteworthy that the front bumper camera, anticipated by many, has not been included yet. This feature was expected to align with the technology seen in Tesla’s Cybertruck.

In terms of performance, the EPA-rated range for the RWD variant remains unchanged, while the LR variant sees a modest increase, going from 333 to 341 miles.

Anticipating the Performance Model

While the Performance variant is currently absent, there is growing anticipation for its eventual release. Rumors suggest that this model might debut in North America, boasting unique features that set it apart from its Long Range counterpart. This includes advanced motors, improved suspension, enhanced brakes, and a possible Ludicrous mode, making it a highly anticipated addition to the Tesla lineup.

We may find out more about the Performance Model 3 during Tesla’s Q4 and Full Year 2023 earnings call on January 24th.



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