So I Just Picked Up a 2025 Tesla Model 3 For My 82-Years-Old Mom, And Am Considering One For Myself After Experiencing Her LR Model

There’s something truly special about seeing a parent light up with joy over a gift: especially when it’s one as revolutionary as a Tesla electric vehicle. Michael Cassin recently shared his heartwarming experience in a Tesla Model 3 owners’ group on Facebook, and his story is a testament to the kind of thoughtful gestures that remind us how powerful our relationships with our parents can be.

"Just picked up a 2025 Tesla Model 3 LR RWD for my mom. She loves it so far. That's a pretty big endorsement considering she's 82 years old. I'm considering getting a Model 3 Performance myself for a daily after experiencing her LR model. My main question is what is the real-world distance you guys are getting per charge on the M3P? TIA!" - Michael Cassin

Michael’s decision to get his mom a Tesla wasn’t just about giving her a new car; it was about ensuring she had a vehicle that’s safe, easy to drive, and filled with modern conveniences that make life better. Interestingly, Michael isn’t alone in this sentiment. Another Tesla owner, David Ritchie, shared a similar experience when he surprised his father, gifting him a Tesla Cybertruck, proving that these EVs are not just for tech enthusiasts—they’re also ideal for parents who deserve a smooth, enjoyable ride.

Seniors and Teslas: A Perfect Match?

Linda M. Franklin chimed in with her own experience: “Congratulations to your Mom. As a senior citizen, Tesla is the best car I’ve ever had.” That’s high praise, especially from someone with a lifetime of driving experience.

Of course, not every senior finds it easy to adapt to Tesla’s tech-savvy nature. Cindy Stevenson raised a concern, saying, “My mom struggled to walk at 82, let alone get out and charge. Plus, be careful of the loud safety alerts (or whatever they're called); they are loud enough to give an 82-year-old a heart attack.”

Michael reassured Cindy that his mom is quite independent: “She’s pretty self-sufficient. She works every day and operates computers, Zoom, attachments, etc. The alerts will take a week or two to get used to, as she’s never had a car that ‘looks out for her,’ so to speak.”

This raises an interesting question—are Teslas really that easy for first-time EV owners to adjust to? Many new Tesla Model 3 owners have shared their experiences, discussing the learning curve and how quickly they came to love the switch to electric.

The Real-World Range Question

Michael’s curiosity about the Model 3 Performance’s real-world range is something many potential buyers wonder about. Rob Olson shared his thoughts: “Driving habits are so important. I had a 2023 Tesla Model 3 Performance. Just didn’t have the range. Got a Model Y LR, and the range was better: about 240 wh/mi over 9k miles. Sold it to go hybrid because I needed a little more range. After waiting for three months for my hybrid delivery, I decided to try RWD LR. Man, I love the range of this thing; haven’t had it long and mostly local driving. I theoretically get over 400 miles of range. Your mom made the right choice.”

His experience echoes what long-term Tesla owners have found—that range can vary significantly based on driving habits, location, and charging routines. And for those still unsure, a two-year owner’s breakdown of battery maintenance and real-world range provides even more insight into what to expect from a Model 3 over time.

A Gesture of Love That Speaks Volumes

Stories like Michael’s and David’s stand out in today’s fast-paced world, where gestures of deep appreciation sometimes seem rare. In an age when love can grow cold, these moments remind us of the importance of honoring our parents in meaningful ways. Whether it’s surprising them with a Tesla or simply taking the time to ensure they have the best possible driving experience, these actions leave a lasting impact.

And let’s not forget the flipside—many Tesla owners have found themselves falling in love with EVs after experiencing them firsthand. One Tesla driver was so convinced, he ditched gas cars forever, and another found themselves regretting selling their Model 3. Could Michael end up in the same boat if he decides to buy the Performance model?

How Do You Honor Your Parents?

Michael’s story is a beautiful example of gratitude and love. In a world where many parents give everything for their children, seeing that love returned in a tangible way is inspiring.

How do you show appreciation for your parents? Would you ever surprise them with a car? And if so, would a Tesla be your choice?

Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, and Youtube. He has more than a decade of expertise in the automotive industry with a special interest in Tesla and electric vehicles.

Image sources: Grok (to preserve privacy) and Tesla Pressroom.