Tesla has consistently updated its referral program, and in 2022, significant changes were introduced, offering exciting benefits for both referrers and new Tesla customers. While the program continues to evolve, understanding the 2022 structure provides valuable context for current and future Tesla incentives. This guide dives into the details of the Tesla Referral Program as it stood in 2022, exploring how you could earn rewards and save money.
Understanding the Tesla Referral Program in 2022
The Tesla Referral Program is designed to reward existing Tesla owners for spreading the word about their vehicles and solar products. In 2022, this program moved away from direct cash bonuses for solar referrals and focused on a points-based system. This shift allowed Tesla to offer a wider range of rewards and incentives through its “Loot Box” system within the Tesla app.
Earning Points Through Referrals
In June 2023, each successful referral earned both the referrer and the new customer 9,000 points. It’s important to note that in late 2022, this reward was increased from the previous 6,000 points to this higher amount, demonstrating Tesla’s dynamic approach to incentivizing referrals. For buyers of solar panels or Solar Roof in 2022, a referral also provided a $500 cash discount.
Image: The Tesla app “Loot Box” displays reward credits that can be redeemed for various Tesla products, upgrades, and Supercharger miles.
Redeeming Your Tesla Referral Points
The accumulated points from referrals could be redeemed within the Tesla “Loot Box.” This online store offered a variety of Tesla merchandise, accessories, and even vehicle upgrades. Here’s a glimpse into what your 2022 referral points could get you:
- Tesla Wall Connector: A Level 1 or Level 2 home charging station, typically priced at $425, could be acquired for 5,500 points. Color-matched and J1772 versions were also available for varying point values. This made home charging more accessible through the referral program.
- Tesla Apparel and Merchandise: Show your Tesla pride with T-shirts, Tequila glasses, and the humorous Tesla “Short Shorts,” all redeemable with points.
- Supercharger Miles: For 4,800 points, you could gain 2,000 Supercharger miles. This was a valuable option, especially for owners whose previous free Supercharging benefits had expired, offering a way to offset travel costs.
- Vehicle Upgrades: Significant upgrades for your Tesla vehicle were also within reach through the referral program. These included:
- Acceleration Boost: Enhance your vehicle’s performance for 40,000 points.
- Enhanced Autopilot (EAP): Upgrade your driving assistance features for 120,000 points.
- Full Self-Driving (FSD): Access Tesla’s most advanced driver-assistance system for 240,000 points.
These redemption options provided significant value, allowing users to personalize their Tesla experience or acquire essential accessories through the referral program.
Who Could Participate in the 2022 Tesla Referral Program?
Any existing Tesla customer was eligible to participate as a referrer. Each owner received a unique referral code, readily accessible within their Tesla app’s “Loot Box.” This code could be shared with friends, family, or anyone interested in purchasing a Tesla.
To ensure both parties received the referral benefits, new buyers needed to use a referral link or provide the referral code during the ordering process, whether online, in-store, over the phone, or via chat. Referral codes could not be applied retroactively after an order was placed, emphasizing the importance of using a code at the time of purchase.
Eligible Tesla Products in 2022
In 2022, the referral program extended to include:
- Tesla Cars: All models currently in production at the time, including Model S, Model 3, Model X, and Model Y, were eligible for referral rewards. The Cybertruck was excluded, likely due to its production ramp-up phase.
- Tesla Solar Products: Both Tesla solar panel systems and Solar Roof installations qualified for referral rewards, encouraging the adoption of sustainable energy solutions.
Interestingly, Tesla owners could even use their own referral codes when purchasing additional Tesla products, earning rewards on their own subsequent purchases.
Maximizing Your Benefits from the Tesla Referral Program
For Tesla owners in 2022, the referral program presented a valuable opportunity to earn rewards and contribute to the growth of the Tesla community. By sharing their referral links and codes, owners could accumulate points redeemable for desirable Tesla products and upgrades. For new buyers, utilizing a referral code offered a financial incentive and a welcoming introduction to the Tesla ecosystem.
While the Tesla Referral Program has continued to evolve beyond 2022, understanding its structure during this period highlights the ongoing value and benefits it offers to both existing and new Tesla customers. Always check the latest updates on the Tesla website or app for the most current program details and reward offerings.
