Rural Service - Page 2

Cobos · 07-03-2009, 03:18 AM

Would they need a big rig ? Wouldn't a large van filled with specific EV testing equipment and spare parts work if they rented space at a local garage in each town? I suppose any decent size garage has the equipment to handle any car. They miss the parts for the EV specific drive-train but you can fit quite a lot into a decent size van.

Cobos

efusco · 07-03-2009, 08:16 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by malcolm

Agreed

Also posting performance stats on the owners forum could be a bit of fun.

OT: Given the current shake-up of dealerships and service centres, which carmakers are still closer to you than Chicago? Aren't rural areas more likely to be targeted for service centre closures as the recession continues?

I know it's not very eco, but how about a mobile service centre / workshop? i.e. a big rig.

Yea, there's nothing close...I hadn't heard about this "shake up", is the Chicago dept. not going to happen??

It seems that a well rigged biodiesel truck could make scheduled runs and emergency trips when needed without being terribly "dirty".
--evan

mt2 · 07-03-2009, 09:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by efusco

Yea, there's nothing close...I hadn't heard about this "shake up", is the Chicago dept. not going to happen??

I think Malcolm was talking about dealerships in general. You've heard, of course, about the Chrysler closings?

efusco · 07-03-2009, 09:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mt2

I think Malcolm was talking about dealerships in general. You've heard, of course, about the Chrysler closings?

What, the car industry is in trouble? When did this happen??

vfx · 07-06-2009, 12:41 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cobos

Would they need a big rig ? Wouldn't a large van filled with specific EV testing equipment and spare parts work if they rented space at a local garage in each town? I suppose any decent size garage has the equipment to handle any car. They miss the parts for the EV specific drive-train but you can fit quite a lot into a decent size van.

Cobos

I think the rig idea is more ideal.

Race teams have been doing this for years.

Drive a car into the back of the Tesla service truck (a Smith?) where a lift can raise it for new battery installation. It's weatherproof, not dependent on local shop availability and can carry a lot more parts, possibly an entire car's worth. It can even leave you with a loaner car while it works on yours.

The TST would also have hats.

KBF · 07-08-2009, 06:57 PM

The rig idea sounds like it could be in line with Tesla's willingness to explore 'out of the box' ideas... and it would be great for us rural guys. Not sure if it would work to travel <100 miles for one customer, though - it's not like the cars need regular service so what are the odds customers near you would need service at the same time?

AnOutsider · 07-09-2009, 06:13 AM

haha yeah, TST has to have the hats!

Going on with the "scary" aspect of remote service though... if the Model S takes off, it won't be long before anarchists start with the antics... perhaps they drive by homes looking for Model S' with the wifi open or something and tap in, start your radio or heat to deplete your battery... flash your system.. disable critical functions...

It sounds "out there" but easily possible. The main reason windows gets hit with so much day in and out is because it's so widespread.

vfx · 07-09-2009, 08:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by KBF

Not sure if it would work to travel <100 miles for one customer, though

Sending the rig would depend on the info supplied by the customer and the USB (or WiFi) download.

Agreed that there might also be a smaller mobile repair truck with smaller parts and software updates. It could be a small panel van, a PT Cruiser sized "van" or best yet, a Model S with seats removed and outfitted as smaller parts dept on (Electric) wheels. The skateboard could even be outfitted with a van box.

mt2 · 07-22-2009, 07:25 PM

I wonder if Kyrstin Munson reads TMC? From Operation - The Tesla Roadster Buyers Guide

Quote:

Don't Have a Tesla Service Center Near You? Don't Worry!!

Tesla's Nationwide Roadside Assistance program has you covered! Roadside Assistance is a 24 hour a day, 7 days per week mobile service concierge. Whether you have a flat tire, collision, or malfunction, Roadside Assistance is there when you need them most.

In driving combustion engine cars that need constant servicing, we have become so accustomed to worrying about service and use it as a deciding factor in purchasing. Because of the very few moving parts, electric cars are notoriously very low maintenance vehicles. Tesla's computer systems are wireless. If you are having any problems with your Tesla vehicle, our service engineers can remotely diagnose the problem, and in many cases, offer a wireless correction. If there is a physical problem with the vehicle, Tesla can send Roadside Assistance to pick up your car, help you make shipping arrangements, or send a vehicle technician to you!

Nearly 1/3 of Tesla Roadsters delivered across the United States are located outside of immediate service areas, so there is no need to wait for a Tesla Service Center to open up near you! You can have detailing, alignment, brakes, tire repair or replacement, windshield repair or minor body repair serviced at your local reputable service area, and Tesla will help you make arrangements for your annual check up.

tdelta1000 · 07-25-2009, 09:35 AM

The Kyrstin Munson write up answers my question on my post about customer experience.