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Why did you take the plunge?
Benjamin explains that 4 years ago, very few electric cars were in circulation in France, and you had to be a 'geek' to adopt an almost unknown brand that had come out of nowhere. This was at the time of the war between VTCs and taxis. But instead of taking part in the debate, Benjamin chose to work on his personal branding and differentiate himself. And how did he do that?
By adopting a premium car, he was opening the door to a new clientele that is very sensitive to environmental issues, but also wants premium models. On a personal note, Benjamin believes that there should only be electric cars in town and that, in time, electric cars will also be a source of energy. Thanks tovehicle to grid"or "networked vehicle" in French, the batteries electric cars won't just be a way of guaranteeing a high level of autonomy but can also be converted into a source of energy for your home if necessary.
How can I finance my electric car?
Just 3 years ago, there were no help to stimulate the electric car market. Benjamin financed his electric car with a long-term leasing with purchase option and was able to smooth out its €90,000 investment over 5 years. Thanks to a number of attractive tax incentives for electric cars, the vehicle has paid for itself. Benjamin was also able to take advantage of the environmental bonus to finance your taxi Tesla.
What problems have you encountered?
Not everything is rosy in the world of electric cars. For example, at the time, it was complicated to insure such a large vehicle, and some insurers are now afraid to insure taxis and VTCs because of the growing number of accidents. With the uberisation of the sector, insurance companies are also reluctant to insure electric vehicles because of the lack of information on repair costs and processes.
The charging stations for electric cars is insufficient even today, and requires greater investment from local authorities and the State.
In February, the car manufacturers also called the State to order so that it can deliver on its promise to deliver 100,000 recharging stations by 2022. There are also times when you have to wait your turn at the fast-charging stations, but Benjamin remains quite philosophical: it allows him to take a real break and have a quiet lunch while the recharge.
How do you make sure you don't run out of fuel while on duty?
Benjamin uses theload shedding option which enables reduce consumption during peaks in usage. This option avoids blowing the fuse when recharging the car.
Good to know: recharging your electric car at home can make a big difference to your health. blowing your top. But don't panic, there are charging options for electric vehicles that allow them to regulate charging according to the network they are connected to. Electricians are increasingly specialising in the installation of home charging points, so you don't have to worry about blowing your fuse: you need to be well advised on your day-to-day needs to get the right installation.
Read also : 8 tips to reduce the energy consumption of your electric car
In terms of accounting, goodbye to the fuel receipts kept in the glove compartment: all you have to do is deduct the VAT from the energy supplier, deduct the estimated percentage of your personal consumption and send the invoice. energy bill to his accountant. In total, Benjamin has saved €43,000 in fuel costs over 3? years.
Good to know battery is guaranteed by the manufacturer for 8 years with unlimited mileage. After 3 and a half years, the battery has lost less than 10% of its original range. The Tesla Model 3 is guaranteed for 190,000 km.
Are customers satisfied?
Very. The satisfaction rate is 100% and many customers only go through him, because it's "Benjamin who has the Tesla". We're talking about an experience Tesla. For many, it's a special moment and some want nothing more afterwards. From a marketing point of view, it's clearly an asset.
What if I had to do it all over again?
Without hesitation. Benjamin has done the sums: the electric car has made him money and helped him balance his working days.
Sales remained stable during the first year of the switch to electric power, before increasing by 12 % two years later.
However, he would have liked to have received more expert advice on the taxation of electric vehicles upstream of its plans to switch to electric power to further optimise its costs.
Any advice for future 100% electric taxi drivers?
The price may be high, but it's a long-term investment.
"You'll gain a lot by looking ahead a few years".
You also need to be better supported and surrounded by people to optimise your accounting. The price barrier is becoming less and less of an issue with the advent of the Tesla Model 3 The "small battery" will be offered at a future entry price of €36,000.
How do you see the car fleet of the future?
100% electric cars of course, less noise, less pollution in cities, a more pleasant world for everyone. But we mustn't deny what already exists, and we need to measure our needs carefully.
