A Tesla driver posted a video showing his concern about his Tesla only having 5% charge on a long-distance journey to Utah. Viewers debated over how certain it is that he will make his trip.
On Nov. 23, a TikTok user (@300k.mile.tesla) shared in a video that he had passed up a Tesla supercharger when he had 12%, and that he then had only 5%, while still 38 miles from his destination. “So this is what happens when you decide to skip a supercharger on a long trip, and you think you can make it,” he said. “Let's see if I can.”
He shows his Tesla screen, which indicates he has 5% charge, with 31 miles and 37 minutes left on his trip. “So still have 37 [miles] to go,” he said. “That number is most likely gonna go down. So I make it there with 4%, maybe 3%, but I'll make it. But whoo, that's kind of close.”
Will the Tesla driver make it to his destination?
His video has caused commenters to debate over how safe this is, and what the best methods are to ensure he gets to the destination before running out of charge.
“Unless you are using a different brand electric vehicle (EV) that requires a third-party charging station, there is no need to be concerned,” wrote one user. “I frequently travel long distances with my Tesla and utilize the Tesla charging network. The system is highly accurate and adapts to your average driving habits based on factors such as speed and cargo load.”
“5% on arrival is too high, just drive faster,” joked another commenter.
While some offered contradictory advice. “Slow down if you’re worried,” commented one individual.
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“And you find out that you came with exactly what is estimated,” added one more. “You can trust Tesla estimation!”
In real trips, actual range often comes up short. Independent testing from 2023 suggests many of these cars fall well below advertised or displayed ranges. In one example, a vehicle that advertised 300-plus miles under ideal lab conditions might only manage about 200–250 in real-world summer driving, and far less in cold weather.
What additional variable could help him complete his Tesla trip?
That’s because many variables can sap battery, such as weather, elevation changes, headwinds, speed, how heavy the car is, and tire pressure.
Additionally, Tesla itself has recommended that going slower is ideal. In EVs in general, and in Teslas specifically, lower speed, smooth acceleration, and minimal accessory use is more efficient. Going “faster to finish sooner” often burns more energy per mile, and you’d likely arrive with less battery.
This means that it is very possible the driver will make it to his road trip destination with 3-4% if he avoids inconvenient conditions, but it might not be guaranteed.
Tesla Charge: How Far Can I Go On 5%?
According to online estimates, about 10 miles. Depending on conditions of course.
We reached out for comment to @300k.mile.tesla via TikTok DM and Tesla via email.
