Model Highlights
The Tesla Model S comes with one of three basic powertrain choices, based around battery size. The Standard Range Model S has range of 270 miles and is capable of 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds. The Long Range Model S offers 335 miles of driving on a single charge, while shaving a tenth of a second in the sprint to 60 mph. Finally, the Performance Model S, with its 315-mile range, will do 0-60 in just 2.4 seconds. All Model S trims handle much better than their size would suggest thanks to an extremely low center of gravity, made possible by the low, flat battery pack stored under the floor. All trims are all-wheel drive.
The driver interface of the Model S is as groundbreaking and unconventional as the rest of the car. Where traditional design is to offer a vast array of buttons and knobs on the dashboard and between the front seats, the Model S simply has a huge 17-inch capacitive touchscreen. All of the media, communication, infotainment and in-cabin controls function through this screen, resulting in an amazingly uncluttered interior.
The standard feature list is extensive on the Model S and includes 19-inch wheels, a 200-watt stereo system, Alcantara headliner, driver seat detection sensor for start/stop functionality, LED map and rear reading lights, Wi-Fi readiness and a 17-inch touchscreen in the dashboard. The options list is also quite lengthy. A variety of charging options are available, including a twin charging system to help reduce charging times, as well as access to Tesla's "Supercharger" network, the infrastructure Tesla is currently building all around the United States. Access is optional on the base car and standard on the other models, and Tesla claims that a Supercharger station can give the Model S a 50-percent charge in just half an hour.
Other interesting options include a glass panoramic sunroof, two rear-facing jump seats, a 580-watt stereo and 21-inch wheels. An optional tech package consists of xenon lights, memory seats, a power rear lift gate, keyless entry, a high-definition back up camera, GPS navigation and electrochromic side mirrors.
Tesla has also done its best to make sure that the Model S is an extremely safe vehicle. The batteries are spread out beneath the floor of the car, actually helping to improve chassis stiffness while simultaneously lowering the center of gravity. Tesla was also able to design a front crumple zone unhindered by the need to fit an engine in the front of the car, further improving safety. Of course, safety features such as anti-lock brakes and traction control are standard, as are eight airbags.
