The Tesla Model S lineup has been trimmed somewhat in recent years. There are only three basic versions for 2021, Standard Range Plus, Long Range and a Performance model. Long Range models are of course still incredibly fast, so despite a range of 358 miles, the Long Range will still hit 60 mph in 3.7 seconds. The Performance trim cuts that time down to an astonishing 2.4 seconds, though range does drop to 315 miles on the Performance model. 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 15-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 18-inch wheels, a 200-watt stereo system, Alcantara headliner, LED map and rear reading lights, and Wi-Fi readiness. 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. Standard safety features across the lineup include front and rear parking sensors, active lane departure warning, blind spot warning, forward collision mitigation, rear collision warning, pedestrian detection system and a driver attention alert.
All-electric Drivetrain
Luxurious Interior With Plenty Of Space, Great Performance, Good Looks
Competitive Pricing
Since its introduction in mid-2012, the Tesla Model S has forced the industry to rethink the luxury car segment. Rather than adhering to traditional model years, Tesla makes running changes as needed throughout the calendar year. The most recent changes to the Model S for 2021 include a reshuffling of the trim lineups as well as an improvement in overall range, thanks to improvements in the car's drivetrain.
A big challenge with electric vehicles has always been range. Tesla has dealt with this by employing bigger and better batteries in the Model S than have previously been seen in electric vehicles. Even with the smallest batteries in its most basic trim, Tesla claims a 300-plus-mile range for the Model S, easily besting the range of any of its potential competitors. Beyond the drivetrain though, the Model S is a competent luxury car with impressive performance. There is plenty of room both inside the passenger cabin and in the trunk, making the Model S spacious and practical. The Model S ownership price starts at a price point that makes it comparable to many large European luxury sedans. While the Model S matches most of these sedans in terms of luxury and performance, it offers environmental benefits and technology unmatched in any category.
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