Not Everything is about Economics

Photo Courtesy Wall Street Journal
Photo Courtesy Wall Street Journal

The ground under logical minds shook this week as the world responded to Tesla’s Model 3 announcement.  Pundits predicted 85,000 would plunk down their $1,000 deposits, and in all too familiar fashion, Elon Musk blew them away.  According to the latest information, about 300,000 people have placed deposits on the Model 3, which equates to $11 billion in sales backlog.

Read what the Wall Street Journal has to say about the Tesla Model 3.

All this at a time when fuel prices are at all-time lows and no one even asked the question how this car might save money … NO ONE!  It is a fact that for many, it will not save money.  No one seems to care.  No one asked the question.  Now what does that say about electric vehicles and especially about this car?

“I want one” has replaced the “I need one.”  Emotion over the car’s looks, the proven performance, and the prestige of ownership is showing through.

Maybe, just maybe, there is a lesson here for all of us trying to tweak the economics of our energy alternatives.   Where are phrases like “Live better electrically” coined in the 50’s when you need them?