Public News

This Public News section of our website is a blog visible to the public and our members. It describes club events and news relevant to Tesla and electric vehicle owners living in or visiting Florida. The blog has a Comments feature that we made available to the public for a couple of months. Unfortunately, we were inundated with spam and inappropriate comments. As a result, we are forced to limit comments to our membership. Non-members can still view our news articles and the remarks submitted by our members, but we regret that they won’t be permitted to leave their own comments.

  • February 21, 2021 4:10 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)


    This photo was uploaded to the Tesla Motors Club forum. It was taken from a moving car and show the newly opened Fort Lauderdale Service Center.

    Tesla gave us a pleasant surprise by opening a full-service Service Center and Store in Fort Lauderdale under our radar.  It is located at 2829 N Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33306. The location was formerly a Best Buy consumer electronics store.

    Tesla management informs me that this surprise opening is a full opening, not merely a soft-opening.




    Larry Chanin

    President, Florida Tesla Enthusiasts

    email:             lfchanin@gmail.com

    Website:          teslaownersflorida.org

    Facebook:        Florida Tesla Enthusiasts

  • February 20, 2021 10:23 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    Please scroll down to the bottom of the article for the most current status.

    The folks at the Tesla Motors Club forum have provided us with some photos showing that another needed "Coming Soon" Panhandle Supercharger Station is under construction in Crestview. From the photos it appears that there will be 8 Version 3 charging posts.  This 

    The address is 2670 S Ferdon Blvd, Crestview, FL 32536.

    Below is a vicinity map.

    The Mobile Alabama Supercharger (not shown) is 107 miles to the west and the Defuniak Springs Supercharger is 32 miles to the east.


    The red rectangle marks the location in the parking lot adjacent to Aspen Dental.


    Tesla's contractor has begun to stage equipment along West Redwood Ave.


    The local utility set a new pole which will be a cable pole feeding underground cable to the transformer powering the Supercharger Station.



    This Google Street view simulates the perspective in the previous photo.  The red markings give a better view of where the eight charging stalls will be located.


    In this image we have zoomed in on a previous photo to show contractors installing the concrete pad and conduit for the Supercharger cabinets and switchgear.


    The foundations for the charging posts have been installed.


    Updated as of February 10, 2021.



    Transformer installed on the left.



    Supercharger cabinets, switchgear and meter installed.

    Update as of February 17, 2021.


    On February 17, 2021, a Tesla owner uploaded the above photo to Plugshare.com. This Supercharger Station is operational.

    Crestview, FL Supercharger


    Larry Chanin

    President, Florida Tesla Enthusiasts

    email:      lfchanin@gmail.com

    Website:   teslaownersflorida.org

    Facebook: Florida Tesla Enthusiasts

  • February 13, 2021 10:14 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)


    On February 5, 2021, the Committee on Ways and Means introduced the comprehensive 88-page "Growing Renewable Energy and Efficiency Now (GREEN) Act of 2021." 

    Section by Section Summary Refer to Subtitle D—Greening the Fleet and Alternative Vehicles

    New Electric Vehicles (Battery Electrics & Plug-In Hybrids)

    The bill extends tax credits of up to $7,500 to purchase new electric vehicles (EVs). It increases the cap from 200,00 to 600,000 for the number of EVs manufacturers can sell before triggering the phaseout of the credit. However, it reduces the amount of credit to $7,000 after the first 200,000 EVs sold. 

    The phaseout period begins during the second calendar quarter after the 600,000-vehicle threshold is reached. At the start of the phaseout period, the credit is reduced by 50 percent for one calendar quarter and then ends. 

    For manufacturers that pass the earlier 200,000-vehicle threshold before the enactment of the bill, the number of vehicles sold between 200,000 and those sold on the date of enactment are excluded in determining when the 600,000-vehicle threshold is reached. This condition applies to General Motors and Tesla. 

    Used Electric Vehicles (Battery Electrics & Plug-In Hybrids)

    The bill creates a new refundable credit for buyers of used EVs from the date of enactment through 2026. Buyers can claim a base credit of $1,250 for the purchase of qualifying used EVs, with additional incentives for battery capacity. 

    The credit is capped at the lesser of $2,500 credit or 30% of the sale price. To qualify for this credit, used EVs must meet the same eligibility requirement as for new EVs per existing IRS provisions. The credit will not exceed a sale price of $25,000 and must be a model year at least two years earlier than the date of sale.

    Buyers with up to $30,000 ($60,000 for married couples filing jointly) in adjusted gross income (AGI) can claim the full amount of the credit. The credit phases out so that buyers with below $40,000 ($70,000 for married couples filing a joint return) in AGI may be eligible for a reduced credit. 

    Buyers must purchase the vehicle from a dealership for personal use and cannot claim the credit more than once every three years. The credit only applies to the first resale of a used EV and includes restrictions on sales between related parties.

    Charging Infrastructure

    The bill extends the alternative fuel vehicle refueling property credit through 2026. Beginning in 2022, it expands the credit for charging infrastructure by allowing a 20% credit for expenses in excess of $100,000. This provision allows a credit for expenses beyond the current limit if certain requirements are met. To qualify for this uncapped credit, the property must:

    1. be intended for general public use and either accept credit cards as a form of payment or not charge a fee
    2. be intended for exclusive use by government or commercial vehicle fleets.

    Zero-Emission Heavy vehicles and Buses

    The bill creates a manufacturer credit for the sale of zero-emission heavy vehicles starting after the date of enactment through the end of 2026. Eligible manufacturers may claim a credit of 10% of an eligible vehicle's sale price, capped at a credit of $100,000 per sale. To be eligible, vehicles must be for domestic use, weigh no less than 14,000 pounds, must not include an internal combustion engine, and be propelled solely by an electric motor that draws electricity from a battery or fuel cell.

    Solar Provisions

    The GREEN Act also includes a five-year extension on the solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which significantly promotes the adoption of solar systems. The ITC would be extended at 30% through the end of 2025, then phased down to 26% in 2026, 22% in 2027, and 10%. 

    Moving Forward

    The GREEN Act of 2021 is a crucial piece of legislation that bears watching. This federal bill will have far-reaching effects on electric vehicle and solar adoption. It will accelerate the already robust Florida EV market.  For instance, the passage of this bill would lower the cost of a Model 3 to about $32,000, including destination fees. The bill will have a ripple effect on transportation considerations in Florida and foster a sense of urgency for pending state EV legislation and initiatives. 

    Stay tuned.

    Larry Chanin

    President, Florida Tesla Enthusiasts

    email:      lfchanin@gmail.com

    Website:   teslaownersflorida.org

    Facebook: Florida Tesla Enthusiasts

  • February 05, 2021 2:29 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)


    Please scroll down to the bottom of the article for current status.

    One of our eagle-eyed members at the Tesla Motors Club forum discovered the permitting documents of a new version 3 Supercharging Station in Marianna.  It will have 8 charging terminals. 

    This "Coming Soon" Supercharger Station location is displayed on the official Tesla Find Us map listed as Marianna, FL.

    It will be located at 2070 FL-71, Marianna, FL 32448, which will be in the rear parking lot of Dickey's Barbeque Pit.


    It's an excellent spot being located almost precisely between the DeFuniak Springs and Tallahassee Supercharger Stations.

    Here is a vicinity map: (For full-size images, right click on any image and open it in a new tab.)


    The public records show the plans for the station. Here are some excerpts:

    The Supercharger Station is located inside the dashed rectangle, just to the right of the the drive-thru lane of the restaurant.

    This is a detailed view of the Supercharger Station. Please note that the orientation is reversed from the previous image.  Refer to the notes below for a legend describing each of the elements of the Supercharger.

    Update as of January 24, 2021.


    Construction has started and is fairly advanced.  Dickey's Barbeque Pit is located to the right. 


    All 8 charging posts, the main switchgear, Supercharger cabinets and the concrete pad for the utility transformer are installed. 

    Update as of January 27, 2021.

      Utility transformer and meter cabinet installed.  Meter not yet installed in cabinet. Two Version 3 Supercharger cabinets and main switchgear in the background.


     Dickey's Barbeque Pit is located to the right. 


    All 8 charging posts.

    Update as of February 5, 2021.


    The Marianna Supercharger Station located at Dickey's Barbeque is now operational.


    Larry Chanin

    President, Florida Tesla Enthusiasts

    email:      lfchanin@gmail.com

    Website:   teslaownersflorida.org

    Facebook: Florida Tesla Enthusiasts

  • February 04, 2021 3:09 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)



    Please scroll down to the bottom of the article for current status.

    In early November, Tesla filed a permit application to build a Supercharger Station at a Wawa at 25155 Meran Way, Land O' Lakes, 34639. Google lists this location as 25155 Meran Way, Lutz FL 33559.  The city of Wesley Chapel is only 6 miles away, so this could be the "Coming Soon" Wesley Chapel Supercharger displayed on Tesla's Find Us page.

    Here is a vicinity map:

    Note that the "Coming Soon" Wesley Chapel Supercharger Station (gray pin) is located only 6 miles away from this proposed location.

    Update as of January 1, 2020.



    Fencing going up in preparation of breaking ground.

    Update as of January 2, 2020.


    A view of the construction area behind the fencing.

    Update as of January 19, 2021.


    Installation looks close to being operational.

    Update as of February 4, 2021.


    This installation is operational. 


    Larry Chanin

    President, Florida Tesla Enthusiasts

    email: lfchanin@gmail.com

    Website: teslaownersflorida.org

    Facebook: Florida Tesla Enthusiasts

  • January 29, 2021 3:34 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)


    Please scroll down to the bottom of the article for current status.

    The Tesla Find Us map has a “Coming Soon” location named Orlando, FL -Millenia. We obtained a public document in which Target Corporation gives authorization for Tesla to file Supercharger permit applications on selected Target properties.  One of those Authorized Locations is listed as T1518 Orlando.  That designates the Orlando Millenia Super Target at 4750 Millenia Plaza Way, Orlando, FL 32839-2434.

    I haven’t located a permit application yet, but I am speculating that this is a likely location for the planned Millenia FL Supercharger Station.  

    Update as of January 30, 2021.

    Pardon the pun, Tesla now states on its Find Us page, "Target opening in Q2 2021."


    As you can see the permit application passed initial review on January 29, 2021.  This station will have 12 Version 3 Charging Posts and two ChargePoint Dual Port Level 2 Chargers.

    Below is a vicinity map:



    When the construction permit is finalized, if you live or work nearby please take some high-resolution photos of the construction progress and send them to me.

    Thanks.


    Larry Chanin

    President, Florida Tesla Enthusiasts

    email:      lfchanin@gmail.com

    Website:   teslaownersflorida.org

    Facebook: Florida Tesla Enthusiasts

  • January 16, 2021 5:12 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    On Saturday, January 16, 2021, Tesla owners and a few curious onlookers met in cold breezy conditions at SouthWood Town Center, near the Canopy Road Café in Tallahassee.

    Several Model Y and Ss were represented, including one 2012 Signature Model S. A couple came as far as Panama City Owners to join the group. Owners and family shared their knowledge and experiences. A good time was had by all, and new friendships were forged. We’ll definitely do this again.

    We want to thank John Sparling and David Fountain for organizing this get together.

    Outdoor event socially distanced.

    2012 Limited Edition Signature Model S with beautiful Signature Red paint. 


    Are you a Tesla enthusiasts and feeling a bit of cabin fever during the pandemic?  If you're not a member, but would like to participate in our next Scenic Drive, Virtual Meetup or Socially Distanced outdoor event throughout the state, please click on the Join Us menu item at the top of the page. 

    Larry Chanin

    President, Florida Tesla Enthusiasts

    email:        lfchanin@gmail.com

    Website:    teslaownersflorida.org

    Facebook:  Florida Tesla Enthusiasts

  • December 27, 2020 6:08 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    On December 26, 2020, Homestead-Miami Speedway invited Florida Tesla Enthusiasts to experience another exhilarating drive as a group at high speed around their Speedway, all for a worthy cause.

    This was a charity event with the proceeds going to Driving for a Cause, a charitable arm of Homestead-Miami Speedway under the umbrella of the NASCAR Foundation. It raises funds for programs in South Florida that focus on education and youth development.


    Round and round and round we go!! What fun!

    Our group sprinted around the Speedway with 13 Teslas and 30 members and their guests. They included Models S, X, and 3s with long-time owners and one car that was 1 week old!

    Be ready to drive fast! The Speedway is an illuminated 1.5-mile oval track with 18-20 degree variable banking. Banked turns are always a thrill, with speeds topping 125 miles per hour! 


    The weather was beautiful, cool and sunny! Our excited group met at Sonny's BBQ, had a quick bite to eat, and charged up at the Supercharger. We caravanned to the track at 12:45, arriving 15 min later. The Homestead screens for COVID and requires masks at all time.

    The best part of our day was the unexpected extended track time we were given. Homestead charged our group just $20.00 per car for 7 laps on the track for this fundraising event. 15 laps later, I was wondering what a great Christmas present!!!!

    Based on the smiles on the drivers' faces as they pulled off the track...everyone had a great time! The most frequent question...."when can we come back?"

    Thanks go to Denise Grant for organizing this thrilling event and for authoring this article.

    Here are some short videos: Florida Tesla Enthusiasts Videos

    Here are some photos:






    Are you a Tesla enthusiasts and feeling a bit of cabin fever during the pandemic?  If you're not a member, but would like to participate in our next Scenic Drive, Virtual Meetup or Socially Distanced outdoor event throughout the state, please click on the Join Us menu item at the top of the page. 

    Larry Chanin

    President, Florida Tesla Enthusiasts

    email: lfchanin@gmail.com

    Website: teslaownersflorida.org

    Facebook: Florida Tesla Enthusiasts

  • December 27, 2020 3:33 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)


    On December 1, 2020, we had a well-attended Virtual Meetup with Gus Cobeaga, Tesla’s Regional Service Manager, and Mark LaPlant, Service Manager. Gus and Mark discussed initiatives enhancing service operations and answered questions.

    Gus Cobeaga, Tesla’s Regional Service Manager

    Marl LaPlant, Service Manager of the Tampa Service Center.


    Are you a Tesla enthusiasts and feeling a bit of cabin fever during the pandemic?  If you're not a member, but would like to participate in our next Scenic Drive, Virtual Meetup or Socially Distanced outdoor event throughout the state, please click on the Join Us menu item at the top of the page. 

    Larry Chanin

    President, Florida Tesla Enthusiasts

    email: lfchanin@gmail.com

    Website: teslaownersflorida.org

    Facebook: Florida Tesla Enthusiasts

  • December 18, 2020 4:25 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)

    Please scroll to the bottom of this article for current status.

    In April of this year, a member of the Tesla Motors Club forum located public minutes of the Development Review Committee of the City of Winter Garden.  The minutes indicated that Tesla representatives were proposing a Tesla charging station at the Wawa at 13501 W Colonial Dr, Winter Garden, FL 34787.  This proposed station is listed on Tesla's Find Us page as "Coming Soon." Another member subsequently noted that Tesla had formally applied for a permit on October 23, 2020.  

    Below is a vicinity map of the location.

    It appears from the minutes that Tesla is looking to install at least eight charging stalls.  However, there is some ambiguity in interpreting the minutes, and it is possible, although unlikely, that Tesla will be installing 16 stalls. I say it is doubtful because after examining the Wawa’s layout, there are a limited number of parking spaces. Nowhere are there 16 adjacent parking spaces. 

    Below is a Google photo of the Wawa.  Please note that the labeling of the onsite ATM may mislead a casual viewer to think that this location  is  a bank.


    The charging stalls are located in the red rectangle.

    Update as of December 2, 2020.


    In early November Tesla began staging equipment at the site. This is conduit. 


    Shortly later the construction fencing was installed.


    Two version 3 Supercharger cabinets mean that there will be 8 charging stalls.



    Breaking ground and beginning to install charging posts.



    Concrete pad for Supercharger cabinets and switchgear.



    This will be the concrete pad for the utility transformer.



    Technician working on the main switchgear.  Supercharger cabinets are in the background. Pad for utility transformer is in center. Meter cabinet is on the right in foreground.



    Status as of December 2, 2020.

    Update as of December 4, 2020.


    Landscaping going in.



    In the rear are the two Supercharger cabinets. If front of them on the same pad  is the main switchgear.  In the center is the utility transformer pad.  The cabling shown is the secondary 480 volt cable which is connected to the main switchgear.  The empty conduit is awaiting the primary cable to be pulled in by the utility.  The gray box in the upper right corner is the meter cabinet awaiting the utility to install the meter.


    Update as of December 18, 2020.



    This Supercharger Station is operational.



    Larry Chanin

    President, Florida Tesla Enthusiasts

    email: lfchanin@gmail.com

    Website: teslaownersflorida.org

    Facebook: Florida Tesla Enthusiasts


Florida Tesla Enthusiasts, Inc. is an enthusiast club and 501(c) 7 non-profit organization. It is registered with the Florida Department of State and is also registered to do business in Florida as Tesla Owners Florida.

The use of the trademarked name "Tesla" in our club names is strictly for the nominative purposes of description and identification as granted by the Lanham Act for fair use of trademarks. Its use is in no way intended to imply any business affiliation with Tesla or its subsidiaries.

Our club is an official partner of the Tesla Owners Club Program. While it is recognized and sanctioned by Tesla through the program, Florida Tesla Enthusiasts, a/k/a Tesla Owners Club of Florida, is an independent enthusiast organization and is not affiliated with Tesla or its subsidiaries. TESLA, MODEL S, MODEL X, MODEL 3, POWERWALL and the “TESLA,” “T” and “TESLA and T Flag” designs, and certain other marks, are trademarks or registered trademarks of Tesla Motors, Inc. in the United States and other countries.

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