October KLS Shallot: Tesla License Plates

By Sophie F.

October 31, 2021

"Customized Tesla license plates are a traffic hazard," Bay Area commuter says. 

The Bay Area’s cultural awareness on environmental issues, coupled with its deep cultural value of innovation, has contributed to the widespread popularity of the Tesla electric car, sold by Tesla, Inc, a vehicle manufacturer founded by business magnate, Elon Musk. Unlike most cars, the Tesla has different camera sensors, a touchscreen monitoring dashboard, and also auto-driving capabilities on the highway. The Tesla is also an electric car, which is often seen as a more sustainable alternative to the traditional gas car.

Some Tesla owners also choose to profess their dedication and deep concern to environmental issues such as climate change by customizing their license plates with messages such as “LOL OIL”, “NOPOLUT” or “4GETGAS”. 

When interviewing an owner of two Teslas, a model X and a model S, they said that they felt it was important to express these viewpoints to help spread awareness on global warming. 

“I really think I’m making a difference,” they said. “Even if it’s just a few characters at a time.” For reference, the license plate on their model X Tesla says “GASHAHA” and their model Y Tesla reads, “THXELON”. “I think it’s also important to thank our innovators and give back to our community,” they responded when we asked about the second license plate. 

However, not all Bay Area commuters are happy with these customized license plates sightings. “Customized Tesla license plates are a traffic hazard," one Bay Area commuter says. “People keep trying to stop and read them, and it restricts the flow of traffic. Besides, these license plates are useless and self-absorbed. I drive a prius and I don’t rub it in other people’s faces.” 

We also decided to include perspectives from other climate-friendly commuters. When we surveyed local bikers, 81% said that they had no opinion about the Teslas, and the other 19% did express some concerns on the driving capabilities and safety of some of the Teslas.

“I think some Tesla drivers don’t really follow the rules of the road. I see many of them cut in and out of traffic and act rude towards pedestrians and bicyclists,” said one frequent bicyclist. 

“Teslas are just very quiet, and sometimes it can be hard to be aware of them,” said another bicyclist. 

When we surveyed other commuters, such as those who ride trains, the majority of them had no opinion, or declined to comment as they sprinted away to try and catch their 34 minute late Caltrain.