An EV newbie in 2021, it is time to reflect on my 35 months with an M3 LR 2021 (June) with 18-in aeros sold this week. Our M3 Highland chapter starts with delivery on 5th June when we go again!
Jontie
- Total mileage 32,985 miles included 7 trips to southern France (also taking in Corsica and the Pyrenees), and trips to Norway, Amsterdam, Cornwall and Northumberland! The ABRP app proved invaluable for scenario planning.
- Lifetime total energy on touchscreen 7,916 kWh, lifetime efficiency 240 Wh/mile. My separate charging record indicates 9,321 kWh delivered to the car taking into account charging losses, losses when parked, rounding up on billing, etc. Total cost GBP 2,380.
- Charging included 120 supercharger sessions in 8 countries delivering 4,130 kWh in total, of which 92 sessions outside the UK with 72 in France. We experienced only 1 faulty stall (in France) and only had to queue once (in Gateshead!).
- ChargeMap app/card was used for public chargers off piste in France (most villages have 22 kW connectors delivering at 11.5kW to an M3). Electroverse card was useful in the UK and gives discounts on the Instavolt tariff.
- Battery normally kept within range 85% to 15% SoC on trips, 70% to 30% SoC at home. We were not aware of significant battery degradation though I did not try to monitor it. The touchscreen showed 314 miles range at 98% SoC when I parted with the car.
- We had a great example of the benefits of regen. In Norway we descended the 16km from the Dalsnibba viewing point at 1500m to Geiranger at sea level barely using the brakes. SoC increased from 63% to 71% (approx. 6kWh added) as predicted in the trip planner.
- Tyres were the original Michelin Pilot Sport 4s throughout with approx 4mm tread remaining. We had no punctures, though we always travelled with an air compressor and repair kit in case.
- We suffered a major issue at 18,000 miles needing warranty replacement of the steering rack and front harness. Luckily the issue occurred near the Service Centre at Aix-en-Provence who took us in hand, gave us an M3 loaner and we were able to extend our stay at low cost. Tesla France really delivered for us to fix our rhd car within 10 days in the post-Brexit era!
- Other warranty repairs were a replaced rear light cluster (condensation) and a replaced charge port door (not opening when pressed) fixed by mobile service at home.
- Regular servicing comprised a 2-year service at Reading SC and two separate tyre rotations. This was to maintain a full service record rather than being necessary, as tyre wear was pretty even. Total cost GBP 295.
Jontie
