My Journey with Tesla’s Referral Program: The Changes, Perks, and Where It Stands Today

Founders Series Tesla Roadster Referral Award

As someone who has accumulated 300 referrals through Tesla’s Referral Program over the years, I’ve had a front-row seat to the evolution of this unique initiative. If you’re unfamiliar, Tesla’s referral program rewards Tesla owners who recommend the company’s vehicles to friends, family, and anyone else who decides to make the leap into electric. It has changed dramatically over the years, and while it may not be as extravagant as it once was, the perks and rewards are still worth exploring.

A Look Back: How the Tesla Referral Program Started

Tesla launched its Referral Program back in 2015. The company was riding high on the excitement surrounding the Model S and Model X, and this program was designed to incentivize owners to spread the word. The original program was straightforward: if someone used your referral code to purchase a new Tesla, they would receive $1,000 off their purchase, and you would get a reward.

Back then, rewards ranged from small bonuses like Tesla-branded jackets and wheel caps to bigger prizes such as invitations to exclusive events and even free Powerwalls for home energy storage. The top tier rewards, however, were what made the early program stand out – Tesla famously gave away free Founders Series Roadsters (valued at over $200,000) to top referrers, which helped build significant buzz.

I was fortunate enough to refer many new Tesla owners during this early period, and let me tell you, the incentives were game-changers. Some of my referrals led to Powerwalls, but the most exciting prize I earned was a Founder’s Series Roadster.

Tesla Referral Program back in 2018

The Program’s Evolution: Phasing Out and Reinventing

As Tesla gained more traction and sales picked up, the Referral Program underwent several significant changes. The initial program’s popularity (and the cost to Tesla) likely contributed to its temporary cancellation in early 2019. By this point, many owners had cashed in on incredible prizes, and the company needed to reevaluate how to make the program sustainable without giving away such high-value rewards.

When Tesla brought the program back, it was simplified. Instead of extravagant prizes like Roadsters, referrers could earn Supercharging miles and exclusive chances to win certain prizes, like access to Tesla events or early access to new features. While this iteration of the program was less headline-grabbing, it still allowed Tesla enthusiasts to share their passion and benefit from doing so.

During this period, my referrals continued, though at a slower pace. The lack of headline prizes definitely reduced the buzz around the program, but it remained a solid way to earn free Supercharging miles, which has always been a valuable perk for frequent drivers like myself.

Free Supercharging

Today: The Tesla Referral Program’s Current Structure

How the Tesla Referral Program works

Fast forward to today, and Tesla’s Referral Program is still very much alive, though it has been pared down and streamlined once again. Here's how it works:

  • Referrers: When someone uses your referral link to buy a Tesla, you receive credits in the Tesla app. These credits can be redeemed for a variety of perks such as Supercharging miles, Tesla apparel, and other merchandise.
  • Referees: The person who uses your referral link to purchase a Tesla also benefits. Currently, they get three months of free Full Self-Driving (FSD) capability, which is a fantastic way to experience Tesla’s advanced driver-assist features before committing to a full purchase or subscription. And they get a discount on the car. Currently this discount is $1,000.
  • The Credits System: Tesla has moved toward a points-based system. Each referral earns you a certain number of credits, which you can then exchange for rewards. These rewards can range from more practical benefits like Supercharging miles to more exclusive items like unique Tesla merchandise or even early access to new features Tesla is testing.

Unlike the early days of the program, where I was collecting referrals for massive prizes like Roadsters, today the focus is more practical, with rewards primarily geared toward enhancing the Tesla driving experience. However, the fact that you can now accumulate credits and have the flexibility to choose how you spend them is a nice touch.

Conclusion: Is Tesla’s Referral Program Still Worth It?

While the Tesla Referral Program has certainly evolved from its early days of Roadster giveaways, it remains an attractive opportunity for Tesla enthusiasts. The points-based system makes it easy to accumulate rewards, and the variety of perks—especially the ability to earn free Supercharging—means that there’s still plenty of value for both referrers and new Tesla owners.

For me, being part of the Referral Program has been a rewarding experience, not just for the prizes I’ve earned, but for the satisfaction of helping others take the leap into electric vehicles. Tesla’s mission is one I believe in, and it’s been a privilege to share that with nearly 300 others over the years. If you’re passionate about Tesla and have a network of people who are curious about making the switch, the Referral Program remains a great way to turn that passion into tangible rewards.

Tesla Referral Program

To use my referral click this link before ordering a Tesla or give the code lasse9342 to your sales advisor. You will see the numbers on this page increase after ordering.

Stats for the referral program is available at top.teslastats.no

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