Tesla Model S, streaks ahead
This electric sedan is honed for performance. It owes its range, unprecedented in its category, and the responsiveness and agility worthy of sports cars, to its powertrain. Assets which are joined by remarkable comfort.
Tucked between the rear wheels, the electric powertrain uses energy three times more efficiently than a petrol engine. There where internal combustion engines require hundreds of moving parts, the Tesla has only one : the rotor. Giving it instantaneous acceleration. It leaps from 0 to 100 km/hr in only 5.6 seconds, chalking up a top speed of 200 km/hr, with zero emissions. Precise and agile, it benefits from Active Air suspension. In fact, when accelerating, the vehicle is lowered for improved aerodynamics. A raise-or-lower function which is selected on the 17-inch touchscreen to tackle deep snow or negotiate a steep driveway. Speed enthusiasts will opt for the S Performance, fitted with an 85 kilowatt-hour battery and capable of accelerating to 100 km/hr in 4.4 seconds and attaining a top speed of 210 km/hr. A score which has nothing to envy of a BMW M5. The car breaks records thanks to its range, of about 390 or 502 km depending on the battery chosen. It is plugged into a 240-volt outlet and recharges in just a few minutes. You can also use the touchscreen to programme a personalized recharging calendar to take advantage of low off-peak rates.
The Model S hasn't had to choose between efficiency and grace. "Its sculpted form expresses a constant state of speed and motion," says its chief designer, Franz von Holzhausen. Its All Glass Panoramic Roof opens up generously in the twinkling of an eye. The Californian designer's attention to detail even extends to the key. It memorizes preferences for the position of the seats, steering wheel and wing mirrors. As soon as the driver comes into contact with the door, it unlocks. Once the seat-belt is fastened, the motor turns on without the key leaving your pocket or handbag. When the owner approaches with the key, retractable door handles slide out of the bodywork, then disappear when not in use.
A real onboard computer, the touchscreen deserves a special mention, while the controls on the steering wheel handle music, navigation, phone calls, air conditioning and other cabin settings. Storage is beautifully mastered with an additional 150-liter compartment under the hood.
The Model S with a 60 kWh battery starts at 71,700 €, before deduction of the 7,000 € ecology bonus, while the most select version fitted with an 85 kWh battery starts at 96,400 € with leather upholstery as standard, also before deduction of the bonus. As proof that performance actually pays : the first offers 302 hp, the Model S Performance, 416 hp. The intermediary version comes with an 85 kWh battery and 362 hp.
