While the "loophole" was open FSD appeared to have a significant impact on EDDs and still it appears some impact now.My post was primarily directed at people constantly complaining about EDD changes. EDD is exactly what it states "Estimated". My original EDD stated April and it still shows end of April to end of May. This forum is a niche within a niche and account for a fraction of a % of actual owners and orders.
I do 100% agree Tesla needs to train and educate SA's much more. Right now its a roll of the dice if you get a phenomenal SA or a bad one. My SA was promoted and she still responds quick when I reach out.
As far as paying extra for upgrades the only noticeable difference in EDD's is if you get a 100% base vehicle vs 1+ options. Paying for FSD makes a marginal difference (sometimes) but tesla and everyone else will prioritize higher profit vehicles. This is the same with legacy automakers currently. Expect to wait a long time for a base vehicle order.
As far as legacy auto makers in this market there is essentially no haggling on cars especially the hot cars. For instance my friend has had a Mach-E on order since September 21 and when he ordered his estimate from the dealer was "over a year". His other option was going out and paying 10 to 20k markup on one that was on a lot at a different dealer.
Estimate - an approximate calculation or judgment of the value, number, quantity, or extent of something.
Approximate - close to the actual, but not completely accurate or exact.
In many examples Tesla's EDDs fail to be approximate or close so I don't think they qualify as estimates. My EDD has been as early as February 2022 to as late November 2022. There is no date on which Tesla can deliver my vehicle in which all of these EDDs provided could be close or approximate. It is very difficult to make plans when the EDD shifts by months multiple times.