Tesla delivers new left-hand-drive Model S and Model X vehicles in the UK with a “grabbing stick”
Tesla has recently faced criticism for its decision to stop producing new Model S and Model X vehicles in right-hand-drive configurations. The automaker also stopped selling these models altogether in some smaller left-hand-drive markets like Australia, Singapore, and Thailand. As a result, many UK buyers saw their orders canceled, even after waiting for years to receive the latest Plaid top-performance Tesla vehicles.
Despite the disappointment, Tesla buyers in the UK who decided to proceed with their purchases despite the change to left-hand-drive were surprised to find an unexpected gift included in their delivery. Dubbed “The Reacher,” this gift is a grabbing stick designed to help drivers reach the passenger window easily. It seems to serve the purpose of grabbing items like parking receipts or drive-thru items. Images of the grabbing stick were shared on Twitter by Andrew Goodlad and Tony Wootts.
While some may find this gesture comical, it has not necessarily alleviated the frustration of buyers who were forced to switch to left-hand-drive vehicles. The grabbing stick may provide some convenience, but it does not compensate for the disappointment caused by Tesla canceling their initial orders.
It remains to be seen how Tesla will address the concerns and disappointment of its UK customers who were affected by the sudden change in vehicle configurations. In the meantime, the delivery of left-hand-drive Model S and Model X vehicles in the UK with “The Reacher” grabbing stick continues.