Can You Own a Tesla Without Being a Homeowner?

What if you aren't a homeowner and you own a Tesla? I certainly fall into this camp. Despite not owning a home, I currently own a Tesla and even anticipate purchasing my second one within the next year. This article delves into the complexities and nuances of owning a Tesla without residing in a traditional residential setting, exploring the availability of charging infrastructure and how it impacts the overall experience.

Charging Infrastructure at Different Levels

Let's break down the types of charging infrastructure and how they impact the charging experience:

Awesome – Charging at Home: With home charging, you wake up every day to a fully charged car, making mornings smooth and money-saving. Home charging is practically a non-issue for me, and it remains my primary method of charging my Tesla. Great – Charging at Superchargers and Other Charging Places: For longer trips or when away from home, Superchargers and other public charging stations are available. While they're convenient, they are not necessary for regular daily use, as evidenced by my personal usage pattern. Eh Not Now – No Superchargers Nor Other Charging Places: In areas devoid of charging infrastructure, ownership of a Tesla or any EV might prove challenging. Without access to charging points, the convenience and utility of owning an electric vehicle diminish significantly.

Charging Solutions for Apartment Dwellers

Now, let's take a look at how other apartment dwellers handle their Tesla ownership. Many of my co-workers, who also own Teslas and other electric vehicles (EVs), primarily charge their cars at work. Thanks to our building, we have 32 Level 2 chargers which are already quite the convenience.

But the advantages of EV charging in the workplace are not limited to our locale. Level 2 charging and DC fast charging options are widely available in many areas, making it easier for apartment owners and commuters to keep their EVs charged.

For instance, at my previous employer in Houston, Texas, Level 2 charging stations were installed back in 2013. As the uptake of electric vehicles continues to rise, workplaces are increasingly offering charging facilities, sometimes expanding their offerings in terms of both quantity and quality of charging stations.

It's safe to predict that this trend will continue, with more and more workplaces offering EV charging. This is beneficial not only for Tesla owners but for any resident or employee with an EV who needs a place to charge their vehicle.

Charging Solutions and Lifestyle

Charging solutions are pivotal for ensuring a seamless ownership experience with a Tesla. However, convenience is key. If you choose to charge only at Superchargers, it might be less convenient but definitely feasible. Superchargers are there as a fallback, but they're not necessary for routine charging needs.

Furthermore, if your area lacks proper charging infrastructure, owning a Tesla might not be the most practical solution. A Tesla or any other EV demands a reliable system for charging, and if that system is non-existent, it can significantly impact your daily drive experience.

But for those living in areas with established charging networks, charging solutions vary. Some apartment complexes and commercial parking garages offer charging stations, and workplaces are increasingly becoming more accommodating with charging infrastructure.

So if you're a fan of Dune Buggy Racer 2 and enjoy spending time in your car, you might find it appealing to sit charged in your Tesla for a couple of hours a week. However, for most, the primary goal is to ensure that charging is as convenient and efficient as possible without sacrificing daily productivity or comfort.