Tesla has launched a new version of its all-electric Model S saloon, which can now be specified with a 100kWh battery. This – in high-performance P100D with Ludicrous mode guise – makes the Model S the third fastest accelerating production car ever; and the quickest that can be bought new.
Tesla cites Ferrari’s LaFerrari and the Porsche 918 Spyder as the models to top the Model S in the fastest accelerating production car stakes, but both hybrid hypercars were made in limited numbers and cost hundreds of thousands of pounds. The Tesla can seat up to seven, has four doors, and produces zero-tailpipe emissions.
More usefully than being able to dominate the traffic light Grand Prix though is the 100kWh battery ability to let the Model S cover around 315 miles on the American EPA test cycle – thought to be reasonably accurate – and 380 miles on the less accurate European NEDC tests. Either way, the Model S will comfortably cover more than 300 miles and has the longest range of any production EV by some way.
The larger battery pack will also be made available on the Model X SUV and, in top of the range P100D with Ludicrous mode spec, will take 2.9 seconds to compete the 0-60mph sprint. Range is quoted at 289 miles (EPA) and customers who have ordered P90D Ludicrous models of either the Model S or Model X can upgrade to the 100 kWh pack at a reduced price if they haven’t received their car yet.
The extra to pay in the US is $10,000, or $20,000 for those who want to retro-fit the 100kWh battery on models already owned, since Tesla will have to recycle the existing 90kWh battery.
The cost of a new P100D in the UK is £114,200 – or £109,700 after the UK Government’s Plug-in Car Grant (PiCG) has been applied. This keeps the flagship model’s pricing roughly in line with those of US models. Those placing an order for their car now can expect to receive it around December.
Tesla has stated that it realises the new models are expensive but reminds potential customers that each vehicle sold helps pay for the development of the smaller Model 3. Company boss Elon Musk said at the launch of the new battery pack: “These are very profound milestones and I think will help convince people around the world that electric is the future.”
Take a look at the Teslas available in the UK on Zap-Map’s Available EV Models page.
