Vehicles are designed with right-hand drive in various parts of the world, including the UK, Australia and Japan. However, some people in these markets may have imported Tesla vehicles from left-hand drive countries such as the USA. This mismatch may result in some operational challenges and inconveniences for these left-hand drive Tesla owners.
Tesla, known for its innovation in the electric vehicle market, recently ran into difficulties when it announced it was discontinuing the right-hand drive (RHD) variants of the Model S and Model X. This decision forced consumers in RHD markets to switch to left-hand drive (LHD) vehicles, creating some disadvantages. However, Tesla has devised an unconventional but practical solution, known as “The Reacher”
Customers in right-hand-drive markets, including the UK, were dismayed by the withdrawal of right-hand-drive versions of the Model S and Model X and were forced to accept left-hand-drive cars. This move to the ‘wrong side’ of the car has caused a few problems, such as the difficulty of reaching parking fines or other objects through the window.
Launch of “The Reacher
Tesla’s approach to the LHD challenge has been dubbed ‘The Reacher’ In the UK, new owners of the Model S and Model X LHD received this gadget resembling a gripping stick. The Reacher’s main function is to help drivers reach objects through the window on the side where drivers of right-hand-drive vehicles usually sit.
The discontinuation of production of the right-hand-drive versions was announced in May, disappointing customers who had pending orders. Some buyers reluctantly accepted the transition to LHD models in order to acquire the car of their dreams three years after placing their order. Although these consumers received The Reacher as part of their purchase, reactions have been mixed, with some hailing it as a smart move by Tesla and others seeing it as a slap in the face to owners. It is not yet known whether ‘The Reacher’ will be available in the Tesla Shop. However, given the novelty and practicality of the tool, it would not be surprising to see strong demand if Tesla decides to make it available to the general public.
Implications for the UK market
Tesla has found itself in an unusual position among luxury car manufacturers after abandoning right-hand-drive variants in the UK market. While other luxury carmakers offer direct flush models, Tesla’s decision to focus entirely on direct flush cars has set it apart in the UK market.
Despite the switch to LHD models, many UK consumers chose to persevere with their orders, only to receive their chosen Tesla vehicles in the end. The addition of ‘The Reacher’ to these purchases is a move by Tesla to increase customer satisfaction and retain those buyers who have made the switch.
Tesla’s launch of “The Reacher” as a solution for LHD owners in HWD markets demonstrates the company’s commitment to solving customer problems and developing new ways to meet challenges. While reactions to this unique tool have been mixed, it illustrates Tesla’s ability to think outside the box while remaining customer-centric. As Tesla continues to innovate and disrupt the electric vehicle industry, innovative solutions such as “The Reacher” illustrate the company’s commitment to improving the overall ownership experience.
