A Tesla works differently from a traditional car in many ways. Most of it is intuitive, but there are a few things that are nice to know in advance. This guide gathers the essentials for new owners.
Unlock and drive
There's no ignition key or start button. You unlock with your key card (tap it on the pillar) or with your phone as a key via the Tesla app. Get in, press the brake, select a gear — and drive. When you leave the car, it typically locks automatically.
One-pedal driving
The biggest habit change is often regenerative braking: when you lift off the accelerator, the car slows by itself and sends energy back to the battery. In practice you drive with one pedal most of the time and use the brake less. It feels unfamiliar on the first drives, but most people adapt quickly.
The screen and the app
Almost everything is controlled from the central touchscreen — from mirrors and steering to climate and media. The Tesla app on your phone is at least as important: from it you can lock, preheat the cabin, track charging, see the car's location and much more. Spend a little time exploring the menus at your own pace.
Charging from day one
Learn the three ways to charge: at home (cheapest), public and at a Supercharger. Set a charge limit for daily use, and let the car precondition the battery before fast charging. Read the full walkthrough in charging a Tesla in Denmark and home charging.
Good first settings
- Set a suitable charge limit (e.g. a middle range for everyday use).
- Set up your phone as a key, and keep the key card as backup.
- Try preheating via the app on a cold morning.
- Adjust regenerative braking/driving settings to taste.
Understand the terms
Run into words like Supercharging, FSD, OTA or frunk? Look them up in our Tesla glossary. And to understand Autopilot versus Full Self-Driving, we have a separate guide about that.
Tip for the first weeks
Allow yourself to get to know the car gradually. Use the app frequently, plan your first longer trip with the car's route planner, and remember that features can improve over time via updates.