Electric Cars

A Minnesota Tesla enthusiast is making waves online by advocating for his 2025 Model 3 Highland Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) as the premier choice in the Tesla lineup, emphasizing its cost-effectiveness and the advantages of the latest refresh. This perspective, however, has ignited a lively discussion among fellow Tesla aficionados, particularly concerning the RWD model's performance capabilities compared to its all-wheel-drive (AWD) counterparts.

Minnesota Owner Defends Model 3 RWD Amidst Performance Debate

In a recent TikTok video posted on October 1st, a Tesla owner from Minnesota, identified as @saintzabi.live, passionately argued that his 2025 Model 3 RWD Highland represents the best investment from Tesla. He highlighted its accessible price point, asserting that it performs on par with the more expensive AWD versions and benefits from exclusive upgrades introduced in the 2024-2025 Highland refresh. The video quickly gained traction, accumulating over 26,300 views by Friday.

The owner's primary contention is that his RWD model is \"literally the cheapest car you can get from Tesla,\" a statement that holds true since Tesla discontinued the even more budget-friendly \"Standard Range\" Model 3 in late 2024. Currently, the RWD Highland model starts at approximately $42,490, excluding destination charges, making it significantly more affordable than the Long Range and Performance variants.

However, the owner's claim about RWD performance matching AWD models has met with skepticism. He stated in his video, \"The reason why I didn't get the All-Wheel Drive is because they perform the exact same,\" even recounting an experience driving through a severe Minnesota snowstorm where his Tesla outperformed his Honda Accord. Yet, many commenters swiftly pointed out that the AWD version accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in about 4.0 seconds, nearly a full second faster than the RWD's 4.9 seconds. Beyond acceleration, the dual-motor AWD system offers superior traction and control in adverse weather conditions, challenging the notion of identical performance.

Regarding the Performance specification, the Minnesota owner acknowledged its higher cost but suggested its extreme speed might be unnecessary for most drivers. He shared an anecdote from a friend, stating, \"His guy's car is so fast. It's so fast that you don't even need it.\" While the Performance model undeniably offers greater speed and a higher price tag, the value proposition remains a subjective decision based on individual preferences.

A key aspect of the owner's argument in favor of the 2024 and 2025 Model 3s, often referred to as \"Highland\" models, is the comprehensive design overhaul they received. These updates include sleeker headlights, revised taillights, a noticeably quieter cabin, an upgraded suspension system, and a redesigned interior featuring touch controls that replace traditional steering column stalks. These enhancements are exclusive to newer models, differentiating them significantly from earlier 2022 or 2023 versions.

This ongoing online debate underscores the varied perceptions and priorities among Tesla owners, particularly concerning the balance between price, performance, and the latest technological advancements.

This discussion highlights the evolving landscape of electric vehicles, where consumers weigh cost-effectiveness against performance and advanced features. The Minnesota owner's video, despite its contentious claims, sparks an important dialogue about what constitutes the 'best buy' in the rapidly changing EV market. It reminds us that personal experiences and priorities play a significant role in vehicle satisfaction, even as objective performance metrics are readily available for comparison.

Waev Inc. has launched the innovative GEM eX, an electric utility vehicle engineered to seamlessly transition between urban settings and demanding off-road work sites. This vehicle is positioned as a highly adaptable solution for commercial, industrial, and governmental fleets, offering an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fuel-powered UTVs. It boasts features that enhance both safety and operational efficiency across varied terrains and operational contexts, solidifying its role as a versatile asset.

Introducing the GEM eX: A Dual-Purpose Electric Utility Vehicle

The GEM eX from Waev Inc. is a groundbreaking electric utility vehicle, uniquely designed to excel in both street-legal operations and demanding off-road tasks. This innovative UTV bridges the gap between traditional low-speed vehicles and heavy-duty work machines, offering an unparalleled blend of versatility and eco-friendliness. It is specifically tailored for commercial, industrial, and government entities that require a single vehicle capable of operating efficiently in diverse environments, from bustling city streets to rugged construction sites, all while maintaining zero emissions.

Equipped with a maximum speed of 25 mph (40 km/h) and certified as street-legal for roads with speed limits up to 35 mph (56 km/h), the GEM eX surpasses many off-road-only competitors by offering legitimate road-use capabilities. Its robust powertrain includes a 6.5 kW motor driving the rear wheels, supported by a limited-slip differential for enhanced traction. Powering this system is an 8 kWh battery, providing an impressive maximum range of 85 miles (137 km) on a single charge. Beyond its operational capabilities, the GEM eX prioritizes safety and utility with features such as 3-point seat belts, roof crush protection, a backup camera, and an advanced bumper system. Its substantial 9.5 inches (24 cm) of ground clearance and 6.5 inches (16.5 cm) of suspension travel, coupled with a 50-degree approach angle, ensure it can handle challenging obstacles and uneven landscapes with ease, making it a truly versatile and reliable choice for a wide array of applications.

Advanced Features and Long-Term Value of the GEM eX

The GEM eX is engineered with a suite of advanced features aimed at maximizing its functionality and durability for fleet operations. Its lithium iron phosphate battery pack is designed for an extended lifespan and reliable performance in extreme temperatures, ranging from –20°F to 140°F (–29°C to 60°C). This resilience is further supported by flexible charging options, including 120V, 240V, and J1772 public stations, making it convenient to recharge in various settings. Waev Inc. stands behind its battery technology with a 7-year warranty, matching the industry standards for many passenger electric vehicles and offering peace of mind to fleet managers.

In terms of practical utility, the GEM eX includes a composite dump box with a capacity of 1,250 lb (567 kg), large enough to accommodate a full-sized pallet, and offers both gas-assist and electric lift options. Its towing capacity also matches this impressive payload. For enhanced all-weather usability, optional hard doors, roll-down windows, and an HVAC system with heating and air conditioning are available, transforming the eX into a reliable workhorse regardless of environmental conditions. Features like hill-hold assist and single-pedal descent control further improve handling on inclines, while the limited-slip differential maintains traction without damaging delicate surfaces. While the initial investment of $24,955 might be a consideration, the GEM eX offers long-term advantages in terms of reduced emissions, lower maintenance requirements, and quieter operation compared to gasoline alternatives, presenting a compelling value proposition for businesses seeking an efficient and sustainable utility solution.