2017 Tesla Model S
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Tesla Model S
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Year:2017
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0-60 time:5.5 sec.
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Top Speed:140 mph
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Price:71500
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The Model S gets a nose job to freshen things up a bit
Tesla discontinued the Roadster, and in quick succession, released its new Model S. Since then, the Model S has become widely popular and sales were good enough that Tesla has extended its offering of vehicles, now including the Model X and the soon-to-be-released Tesla Model 3. At first, the Model S sedan came only in rear-wheel drive and featured an extended range 265 miles. Not that it wasn’t a bad initial package – Tesla did effective set the standard for all-electric vehicles, and to date, it’s still the best all-electric model you can get.
Over the past few years, the Model S has seen several updates, including a new front motor that made all-wheel-drive variants available, plus Autopilot, and Ludicrous mode. In that time frame, the range has also been increased up to 295 miles for properly equipped models. The one thing that hasn’t changed since the car’s introduction, however, is the body style. But now as we approach the 2017 model year, Tesla has finally given the Model S a facelift.
Before you get to overwhelmed with excitement, be warned that the facelift is pretty minor. It was well needed, though, and the front end does sport a new look. Join me for an in-depth look at the Tesla Model S and what it brings to the table as Tesla ushers in the 2017 model year.
Update 06/09/2016: Tesla has announced that it is taking a step backward and offering a more affordable version of the Model S in 60 and 60D form. Check out the updates in our Drivetrain and Prices sections below for all the details.
Continue reading to learn more about the 2017 Tesla Model S.
Latest Tesla Model S news and reviews:
Tesla News Roundup For The Week of Jan 6, 2019
There is always something new happening in the world of Tesla. This year, we won’t be seeing any new products from the company, but instead, they will be focusing on expanding their technology base. Tesla is rolling out numerous over-the-air updates that are keeping the Tesla owners and enthusiasts quite interested all the time. Not to mention, the products also remain fresh this way, thus giving Musk and his company some breathing room from developing new products. Here are the major updates from Tesla this week.
Tesla Delays Some U.S. Deliveries; Costing the Unfortunate $1,875 in the Process
Tesla and controversies go hand-in-hand and here’s some more controversy from Musk’s company. Tesla has pushed some of the deliveries of its cars that were originally scheduled to be deliver this year to next year, thus costing many owners a federal tax credit of $1,875.
During every financial quarter, Tesla tried to push out as many cars as possible to showcase better results, but this time, even the customers were in a rush to take deliveries up to the 31st of December to avail the tax credit. However, Electrek says that several U.S. buyers were asked to either take deliveries early next year without the credit or cancel their orders. Well, it’s clearly not a good situation to be in.
High-Mileage Tesla Model S P100D Matches Wits With Almost-New Tesla Model 3 Performance
On the surface, racing a Tesla Model S P100D against a Tesla Model 3 Performance has all the makings of a lopsided affair. The Model S P100D is vastly more powerful than the Model 3 Performance. But the specifics of this particular race that YouTube channel DragTimes organized between the two Teslas aren’t normal, specifically as it relates to the age of the two models. The Model 3 Performance is an almost brand-new model, but the Model S P100D is a three-year-old model with 96,000 miles in its odometer. Do the Model S P100D’s age and high mileage have an effect on its performance capabilities relative to the almost brand-new Model 3 Performance? DragTimes tried to find out and the results are interesting, to say the least.
Hacker Uncovers a Huge List of Video Streaming Apps Coming to Tesla Cars, Including HBO and Comedy Central
A variety of entertainment options could be headed to Tesla’s in-car entertainment system after a hacker discovered assets within the automaker’s operating system. These assets were identified as several new streaming apps, including HBO, Twitch, Comedy Central, and even Chinese video hosting service YouKu.
Though no confirmation has been given on Tesla’s plans for these assets, their existence within the company’s operating system suggests that Tesla is considering adding these services in some future version of its software, provided that it has secured agreements with the companies that own these streaming services.
Tesla’s "Plaid Mode" T-Shirt is Actually Pretty Cool
Tesla’s ability to monetize just about anything under the sun is back in the news. As if flamethrowers, tequilas, and branded hats aren’t enough, the Tesla is now offering a “Plaid Mode” t-shirt to commemorate the arrival of the new range-topping version of the Model S. The shirt, which is literally available in Tesla’s online shop was designed to, according to the company, “celebrate Tesla’s incredible performance mode.” It’s made from 100% cotton, and, apparently, it’s also the “next best thing to riding shotgun at the Nurburgring.” The Tesla “Plaid Mode” t-shirt is available for $35 at sizes ranging from “XS” to “XXL.” At this point, if you haven’t bought one yet, we don’t know what you’re waiting for.
How Big is the Battery In the Tesla Model S and Model X Plaid?
The Tesla Model S Plaid tore around Laguna Seca in just 1:36.555 and is slated to be the fastest and most powerful version of the Tesla Model S, effectively dethroning the Model S P100D. The Model X will also get the same treatment and, while we know the Model S and Model X Plaid models will be more powerful – and faster – we’ve been left in the dark in terms of battery size, at least until now, as Elon Musk has confirmed that Plaid models will, in fact, feature a larger battery. In fact, they will sort the largest battery to ever grace Tesla’s lineup.
TopGear Drag Races the Tesla Model S Against the Porsche Taycan But the Results Are Controversial
Ladies and gentlemen, this is the sort of battle that has the potential to change the EV segment forever. So far, Tesla’s viciously quick Model S has been kicking supercars and muscle cars to the curb in drag races around the world to the delight of Elon Musk’s fanbase. However, it looks like the electric sedan has met its match and then some in the squeaky-new Porsche Taycan. TopGear took the two EVs out for a spin that culminated with both a drag race and a top speed run on the Autobahn. Let’s see how that went, shall we?
Porsche Taycan vs. Tesla Model S
After years of promises, teasers, and concept cars, Porsche finally unveiled the Taycan. A major turning point in the company’s history, the Taycan is the first Porsche with an all-electric drivetrain. What’s more, the Taycan is an EV of the high performance variety, so it goes against one of the most popular electric vehicles on the market, the Tesla Model S. A strong seller in the United States and a market leader in some European countries, the Model S is tough to beat. The big question is whether the Taycan has what it takes to give the Model S a run for its money and that’s exactly what we will find out in the comparison below.
Tesla Model S Plaid - Everything We Know
If you’ve ever wondered about the etymology of Tesla’s Ludicrous Speed upgrade for the Model S, look no further than Mel Brooks’ Spaceballs, the parody of the Star Wars movie franchise that was released back in 1988. “Ludicrous Speed,” as it was called, was a unit of speed that traveled faster than “Light Speed” and “Ridiculous Speed.” It also opened the door for the next fastest form of speed in outer space, referred to only as “Plaid.” All of this is relevant only in Tesla’s world because of the upcoming arrival of the Model S Plaid. This is everything we know about it.
Who’s Responsible If a Tesla On Smart Summon Hits You or Your Car?
I saw an article posted by another outlet just the other day that was titled “idiots are trying to run themselves over with Their Own Tesla’s.” Like most people, I didn’t really read the article – I eventually did, and it isn’t much of an article – however, with all the dumb challenges going on these days (dumb kids eating tide pods, I’m looking at you) I found it very easily to believe people are out there jumping in front of their Tesla on Smart Summon, just to see if it will stop. As it turns out, there aren’t as many cases as I would have expected, and I’m sure they’re coming at some point, but there is one “homemade” test that we’ve posted below. Not surprisingly, the Smart Summon feature is far from perfect. This raises another question in my mind, though: Who the hell is responsible in accidents involving Tesla Smart Summon?
Tesla has a different view of what “having fun in a car” should mean. Don’t get us wrong, but for the vast majority of gearheads out there, that’s synonymous to actually driving the car and occasionally taking it to the limit. Call us old fashioned, but we don’t see a point in offering your customers the likes of in-car gaming and in-car karaoke since we’re still far, far away from Level 5 autonomous driving. No, Tesla’s Autopilot isn’t that.
As usual, Tesla will deliver the update through its over-the-air system this week, but before you get it, here’s what you should look for. For a better grasp, we’ve grouped the new features based on their purpose.
Tesla Claims the Model S Can Lap the Nurburgring in 7:05 - After Not Posting an Official Time
The brewing rivalry between Tesla and Porsche has taken another turn after the California-based electric carmaker went to the Nurburgring for the very first time…and left without actually posting a time. But that’s not stopping Tesla from puffing its chest, saying that the triple-motor Model S “Plaid Mode” can clock a lap time of 7:20.
Even more brazen, Tesla’s calling yet another shot, claiming that “with some improvements,” the Model S can achieve a lap time of 7:05 when the automaker returns to the ‘Ring next month. Tesla didn’t specifically say when it plans to return in October, but it will be interesting to see what it does when it comes back to the Nurburgring. Judging by its first foray to the world’s most famous race track, Tesla claims to have done a lot without actually doing, well, a lot.
The Tesla Model S Plaid May Have Beaten the Taycan Around the Nurburgring
Elon Musk has had a tooth to pick with Porsche and more specifically the Taycan EV ever since before Stuttgart’s first-ever electric sports had the chance to make its online debut. But now, the battle has moved to the Nurburgring, where a heavily-modded Tesla Model S reportedly beat the Taycan’s (which was a pre-production prototype, to be clear) lap time set earlier this summer.
Here’s That Video of the Tesla Model S Tearing Up Laguna Seca - Is Another Record Attempt Coming?
Tesla’s back making claims again, only this time, the California-based electric car maker is planting its flag at Laguna Seca after claiming the four-door lap record around the race track with a time of 1:36.6. While the lap time is impressive, it doesn’t hold much weight in the eyes of the public, largely because it wasn’t set during a sanctioned event and in the presence of an officiating body that would validate the lap time.
That said, Tesla’s decision to go to Laguna Seca to set a lap time, not to mention sightings of a different Model S at the Nurburgring, has people asking if these sightings are precursors to real sanctioned time laps in the future. Knowing Elon Musk, don’t discount that from actually happening.
The Porsche Taycan Is Cool and All, But It’s Not as Quick as the Tesla Model S
The highly anticipated Porsche Taycan made its global debut ahead of the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show. Essentially a competitor for the popular Tesla Model S, the Taycan signals the beginning of a fierce battle in the high-performance electric car segment. And needless to say, the Taycan looks like it has what it takes to give the Model S a run for its money. On the other hand, Porsche’s EV isn’t as quick as the American sedan, which is a letdown for performance enthusiasts.
Elon Musk Says No to Refreshing the Tesla Model S and Model X - Is This a Big Mistake?
Tesla has no plans to refresh the Model S and Model X, echoing CEO Elon Musk’s position regarding the issue. Instead, a series of “minor ongoing changes” are expected to come for both models. This might be disappointing news to owners of either the Model S or Model X, but this isn’t anything new for the automaker, which has stood by its CEO’s stance that “Tesla doesn’t do refreshes,” or at the very least not in the traditional sense that most automakers do. It’s a unique position Tesla has taken, particularly now for both Model S and Model X models that have suffered in the sales department as more customers turn their collective attention towards the far more affordable Model 3. Is it a mistake on Tesla’s part, or is all of this a matter of semantics since most of the updates that both the Model S and Model X can be considered “refreshes” in their own right?
Outside of all the negative publicity from Tesla drivers being idiots and blaming Tesla for their own stupidity, and the recent onslaught of Tesla fires lately, it’s hard to remember that cars like the Tesla Model S and Tesla Model X are some of the safest cars on the road. But, the truth is that they are. Their crash test ratings are amazing, and the Model X takes a miracle to flip over. Be this as it may, you never really know how safe a car is until it’s put to the test in the real world. This video that you’re about to watch proves exactly that.
This video took place inside the Barcelona tunnel in Spain just last week, and it shows a grey station wagon drift out of its lane, clip a black compact car, then head on the Tesla Model S. As far as to why the wagon drifted from its lane, we’re completely unsure, but we’ve found out that the driver of the station wagon was fatally injured. That in itself makes it all the more amazing that the driver of the Model S, as seen just a couple of seconds after the crash, walks away practically unscathed. The crash was so bad that the station wagon’s engine was even thrown from the car.
Check out the video below to and prepare yourself for a rather scary-looking accident.
Model S lights up in Shanghai. Tesla said that investigations are already started.
Since 2013 there have been at least 14 instances of Tesla cars catching fire, the majority occurring after a crash. On April 21, late Sunday evening Shanghai local time, users of Weibo, the Chinese social media app equivalent to Twitter, widely shared a video showing a Tesla Model S catching fire spontaneously. We look forward to hearing what Tesla’s investigation results are.
Latest Porsche Taycan:
Tesla’s Full Self Driving Option is Now More Expensive
Elon Musk announced that the price of the Full Self-Driving (FSD) option is going to "substantially" increase over time. It’s still unclear how much the price will go up, but we will know it soon as the first rise of the cost is expected for May 1, 2019. We only know it should be "something like" $3,000," which would bring the option to a total amount of $8,000.
According to the automaker, FSD will soon be able to identify and respond to traffic lights and stop signs and will even drive automatically on city streets. Tesla announced that Autopilot is now a standard feature for some model and trims, but standard Autopilot boosted the car price. Musk also said that starting in a few months it will offer computer retrofits to all owners who purchased the FSD option.
Ride Hailing, LIDAR, Life Span, And Self-Driving Tech - Tesla Has it All Figured Out
Tesla is a small automaker compared to the global giants, yet it leads the pack from a technical and technological standpoint in many areas. One such area is in the field of autonomous driving tech, and the automaker recently showcased its newest self-driving tech and how it intends to use them at a special event held at its headquarters in Palo Alto, California.
Tesla’s Refresh for the Tesla Model S and Model X Will Infuse Model 3 DNA at their Core
Tesla is known for breaking from tradition, and that includes the way in which it updates its various model lines. Rather than creating an entirely new “generation” every five years like the rest of the industry, the California-based brand prefers a steady stream of incremental updates to keep things fresh. However, that could change with the forthcoming Model S and Model X, as rumor has it Tesla has a substantial powertrain update in the works, with tech bits pulled from the Model 3 compact sedan.
Tesla Adds a New Advanced Tailgater Feature to Autopilot Self-Driving System
Tesla is at the forefront of autonomous driving tech in the automotive industry, but competitors are hot on its heels trying to match the broad array of features provided by its Autopilot system. Now the EV maker is consolidating its position as a leader in this field with its newly released Advanced Tailgater mode that will be added for free to all Autopilot-equipped Tesla models via an over-the-air update.
Donut Media Goes Deep With Tesla: Video
If you went up to me 20 years ago and told me that electric cars would eventually become some of the quickest, sexiest vehicles on the planet, I would have asked what you were smoking and why weren’t you sharing. But oh how things have changed. Now the calendar says it’s 2019, and the appeal of cars like the Tesla Model S is undeniable. With cutting-edge technology, insane levels of torque, and head-turning style, the Tesla brand is a force to be reckoned with. Now, with the recent debut of the 2020 Tesla Model Y,Donut Media is diving deep on everything you need to know about Tesla.
Tesla Postponed Price Hikes Because of Overwhelming Number of Last Minute Orders
Tesla has put a stay in its decision to raise prices on most of its models worldwide due to what it described as “unusually high volume” on orders being placed on its website. The slight price adjustment was supposed to take effect midnight Pacific Time last Monday, March 18. Now, the price hike will happen midnight Pacific Time on Wednesday, March 20. The decision to raise prices by three percent on some of its models was announced last week after Tesla abruptly reversed course on its plan to close all of its retail stores and focus all sales online. With the deadline fast approaching, it’s gonna be interesting to see if Tesla experiences the same “unusually high volume” when the clock hits midnight Pacific Time today.
Tesla Model S Crashes and Burns; Reportedly Non-Functioning Door Handles Fatally Trap the Driver Inside
A Tesla Model S collided with a tree on Sunday in Davie, Florida. The car was soon engulfed in flames and, because the automatic door handles appear to have seized, the driver was trapped in his car and was killed. Reports have emerged telling that, like in the case of other crashed Teslas, the wrecked Model S caught fire again this morning with the source being traced back to the battery.
It’s unclear at the moment how the accident happened, but witnesses at the scene told press that they couldn’t get the driver out because the automatically deploying door handles remained stuck in place. What’s more, an officer that happened to be in the vicinity of Flamingo Road where the incident took place was also unable to break the car’s window and evacuate the driver. This could be a harrowing precedent for Tesla.
Tesla Shares Plummet Despite Record-Breaking Production
Tesla announced a record-breaking number of deliveries in the Q4 of 2018, but that did not reflect in its financial reports. Tesla delivered 90,700 vehicles from September to December - a new record since its inception, but the share prices took a hit. The shareholders felt a certain unsteadiness as stock prices declined and investors expressed their disappointment over failed expectations to close out the year. That is harsh on Tesla.
Now That Tesla Is Discontinuing the 75-kWh Battery, with the 2020 Model S and Model X Finally Become Track Worthy?
Elon Musk recently announced on Twitter that Tesla would be discontinuing the 75 kWh variants of the Model S and Model X. The two models will now be offered only in the 100 kWh and 100 kWh Performance versions. The smaller battery-capacity car is up for sale only until Sunday night. Does this mean this mean that Tesla will begin using its new battery cells in the Model S and Model X, a move that could eventually make them track worthy?
What We Can Expect From Tesla in 2019 - Tesla Model Y, AutoPilot, and More
Tesla is set to expand its operation further in 2019, building on 2018, a year when the automaker’s main goal was to ramp up production of the Model 3, while at the same time addressing the many quality issues new owners were reporting. Model 3 production is still not at the level Tesla would want (neither in terms of quantity or quality), but in 2019 it looks like there is a lot more on its plate.
Tesla powertrain and batteries completely transform this Audi RS5
The Audi RS5, built between 2010 and 2015, was powered by a screaming, high-revving, V-8 engine and was widely acknowledged as being one of the best of its kind. However, what do you do when your car doesn’t have an engine or its engine is junk and you need to replace it with something else? How about you slot in a Tesla motor and battery pack to see how that transforms the car.
Tesla Model S Drove On Autopilot and Saved The Drunk Driver’s Life
We have been hearing stories about how the autonomous system has failed in cars and even killed people in some cases. How about we talk about a life-saving incident for a change? A 45-year old man in his Tesla Model S was spotted by the cops cruising on an expressway fast asleep. They chased the car for minutes before successfully stopping it. Imagine the dire consequences had it not been for the Autopilot system.
Tesla Launches "Track Mode," Turns Model 3 Into Drift Machine
One of the coolest advantages of electric powertrains over internal combustion engines is that power and torque are available instantly. And this is one of the reasons why the Tesla Model S is the quickest production car with a 0-to-60 benchmark of only 2.5 seconds. Now, Tesla wants to put the Model 3’s instant torque to good use on the race track through a new driving mode. It’s called Track Mode and turns the compact sedan into a drift machine.
Best Electric Cars of 2018
Electric vehicles are becoming more and more popular these days, and manufacturers are responding by pouring in the investment and releasing oodles of new models. As such, competition between EV’s is growing, and 2018 was no exception. But the question is, which of these machines is the “best”? To find out, we lined up the usual suspects up and looked at all the critical specs, including range-per-charge, battery capacity, charge times, interior space, interior tech, and more. Read on to see which EV came out on top!
Tesla Summon - Your Solution to Two Hour Parking Laws
You could argue that the original automobile was invented to get around the hassle of dealing with horses and all the difficulties associated with using a giant mammal to get from A to B. Sure, that’s a gross simplification, and there were certainly other factors at play, but convenience undoubtedly played a major role all the same. Now, with the advent of autonomous drive systems, our lives are about to get a whole lot easier, as evidenced by this Tesla owner’s novel use of the Summon feature.
You Can Now Browse Tesla’s Parts Catalog for the Model 3, Model S, Model X, Roadster, and Even OEM Tools
Lately, Tesla has been talking about ‘Right to Repair,’ and how it is trying to get on board with the idea. Now, Tesla has taken the first step by releasing its parts catalog for Model 3, Model S, Model X, and Roadster. There’s even a tool catalog that will allow you to, eventually, order all the specialized tools you need to tear down and rebuild any Tesla model.
This is good news for you if you like to work on your own car, or if you prefer to have a mechanic outside of Telsa perform maintenance and repair.
"Dog Mode" Will Turn Your Tesla into your Dog’s Best Friend
Are you worrying about your four-legged companion’s well-being while waiting for you back in your Tesla? Well, soon, you’ll have no reason for concern as Tesla’s poised to introduce a "Dog Mode" to keep dogs cool and calm inside while they wait for your return.
Following a series of tweet exchanges between Tesla CEO Elon Musk and some inquiring users, it seems like Tesla looks at ways to implement a "Dog Mode" that will keep the temperature inside the car cool, or warm, depending on the season, to have them relaxed until the owners come back.
While it’s unknown when will this mode will drop, supposedly as part of an upcoming system update; it isn’t Tesla’s first feature of this kind. The American manufacturer released two years ago the Cabin Overheat Protection mode which does exactly what its name suggests it would.
First Driving Impression: An Honest Take on the 2018 Tesla Model S
The first time I ever saw the Tesla Model S was sometime in 2012 or 2013 at one of the car shows in Europe. I will guess that it was in Geneva. I left the Tesla stand a bit underwhelmed by its interior, but the performance, the size, and the sheer fact that someone is buying an electric car like that was more than enough to show me its importance. After that, I drove it only once. And not for a long time at that.
Now, finally, I got my third chance with the Tesla Model S at the Continental AG organized event called the #blackchili. In Nice. Yup, the South of France. I know, I am a lucky guy.
This time I had the Tesla Model S for 40 or so miles. Not the P100D, but the one with 373 horsepower. More than enough, believe me. Considering I drove the car for less than 50 miles, it may seem like I don’t have anything to write home about. How can I call this a short test drive then!? Well, I can because I will tell you about the Tesla Model S from the perspective of a guy who drove European cars all his life, and who never really had an EV stint like this.
I Drove 1,780 Horsepower Worth Of Cars In France On Possibly The Best Tires On Earth
Continental AG invited me to spend three days in Nice, France, drive really nice cars, experience its #blackchili driving experience and gorge on vine and fish of all kinds prepared by some of the best chefs around.
I said yes.
This is what I saw, drove and experienced there.
1,780 horsepower worth of cars were parked down the alley of a hotel with a golf course. All of them were white, all of them had OEM Continental tires on them. UUHP tires, mind you. That is short for Ultra Ultra High Performance and all of them had striking, yet subtle Continental decals. Right from the get-go, it was clear this wasn’t going to be a classic journalist driving event. It was more of a celebration and a party. I liked it.
The weather was at nice 78 degrees Fahrenheit, without a single cloud on the perfectly blue sky over the Cote d’Azur. Down at that parking - 10 cars - two Mercedes-AMG C43 Cabrios, two BMW M240i xDrive Convertibles, two Porsche 718 Boxsters, two Tesla Model Ss, and two Audi RS3 Sportbacks.
FYI, the Porsche was the least powerful one there. And when the Porsche is the least powerful at a car event, things are off to a good start.
Tesla Model S Driver Rams Into A Nissan SUV Despite Autopilot’s Warning
This is the latest Autopilot crash; but it wasn’t the system’s fault. A couple, who was too busy engrossed in something else other than focusing on the road, rear-ended a Nissan SUV despite the system warning and chiming its brains out. How can one trust a machine blindly?
Tesla Updates Autopilot with "Mad Max" Mode for Assertive Overtaking
Tesla keeps on improving its Autopilot system and the new version is now able to overtake other cars in traffic with the "Navigate with Autopilot" function. It features a "Mad Max" mode for more assured passes.
Tesla cars have been driving themselves around and about for quite a while now, but passing hasn’t been anywhere near second nature for the American EVs. To initiate an overtake when navigating with the Autopilot system turned on, you had to toggle the turn signals yourself. Now, with version 9 of the system being available, this is no longer the case.
Motherboard Features the Mechanic Reviving Wrecked Teslas: Video
When it comes to bringing a car back from the brink, there are plenty of folks out there to look to as a good example - at least as far as internal combustion is concerned. That said, the ICE is slowly (but surely) giving way to electric power, which begs the question: what happens to the art of the restoration when batteries run the world? This man has the answer. His name is Rich, and he likes to rebuild Teslas.
“Tesla’s stance in rebuilding vehicles is only they should do it,” Rich explains. “I would say I’m the first person to bring a Tesla that’s completely dead to running and driving, almost showroom floor quality, independently, by themselves. At this point, I would consider myself the Dr. Frankenstein of Teslas.”
We certainly think that’s an appropriate title. Rich’s brilliance is in his deep understanding of how America’s most popular all-electric car works. Not only does he source all his own parts, but he singlehandedly wrenches them into shape. The end result is nothing less than amazing.
Rich shares his work on his YouTube channel Rich Rebuilds, posting video topics that include how-to’s, upgrades, tear downs, and a whole lot more. We love his DIY attitude, not to mention the fact he’s pretty much the only mechanic out there that we know of who’s going this deep on Teslas.
“If you own something, if you purchase something free and clear, then you should be able to fix it yourself,” Rich says.
Amen to that.
Thanks to the magic of over-the-air updates, Tesla has once again stepped up to the plate and delivered extra range, as well as free supercharging, to its customers in the path of Hurricane Florence. This move mirrors the same move the company made just last year for Florida residents right before Hurricane Irma made landfall. This special update has left Carolina-based customers with the following surprise message:
“We are temporarily enabling your car to access additional battery capacity, as well as free Supercharging, in preparation for Hurrican Florence. We hope this gives you the peace of mind to get to a safe location and will notify you before returning your car to its original configuration in mid-October. Badging on your display may adjust during this period. Safe travels.”
This temporary OTA update only affects those that previously purchased a Tesla Model S or Model X with a 75 kWh battery that was “software locked” to a capacity of 60 kWh. The option at the time made the car more affordable at the cost of a shorter range. It has, however, proven as-as a way that Tesla can offer some of its customers an unexpected and very much appreciated act of faith they need the extra go-juice the most. There’s no word as to when Tesla will return the cars to their original configuration or begin charging for Supercharging in the area again, but changes are the temporary update will remain in effect until long after the storm has passed.
Kudos to Tesla – it’s always nice to see an automaker help out its customers when it can. It costs the company next to nothing but can mean so much to those who have a desperate need for a few extra miles of range when getting out of mother nature’s way.
Check Out This Audi S5 With Tesla Model S Power
Audi still doesn’t have an electric car — the R8 e-Tron doesn’t count — on the market, but that hasn’t stopped the aftermarket world from beating the German automaker to the punch. The Audi in question here is the S5, but it’s not really a factory unit, anymore. That’s because this S5 is now powered by the electric powertrain of a Tesla Model S donor car. This Audi S5 is now an electric car after undergoing a full EV conversion at the hands of noted New Jersey-based EV tuner, POLYKUP.
Sending Your Tesla Model S Airborne is Probably Not The Best Idea in The World
A 46-year-old man from Ontario, Canada was charged with dangerous driving after sending his 2016 Tesla Model S airborne as a result of driving too fast for his own good. Local CCTV footage, as well as dashcam videos, captured the Model S doing its best Fast and the Furious impersonation, traveling through the air for almost 100 feet before gravity took hold of it and sent it back down to earth. The Model S may have stuck its landing, but the driver was unable to regain control of the car, which managed to skid across a highway, hopped a curb, careened into a school parking lot, and hit a tree.
2022 Tesla Model S
The Model S is far and away Tesla’s most popular vehicle, known for singlehandedly shifting public opinion of EVs from dowdy, boring people-movers, to sexy, high-tech performance machines. This is the model that set the stage for all of Tesla’s other offerings, including the top-shelf Model X SUV, and more recently, the affordable Model 3 compact four-door. However, the Model S was first introduced in 2012, which means it’s starting to get a little long in the tooth, and a second-gen for the full-/mid-size luxury sedan should be headed down the line in the next few years. As such, we put on our speculation hats and got down to reasoning out what the next Model S might bring to the table.
Update 9/12/2019: The Tesla Model S 100D + Plaid was spotted going through the paces on the Nurburgring today in preparation for a new record attempt to dethrone the Porsche Taycan. Check out our special spy shots section below to see the first images and learn more about what could represent the next significant update to the Tesla Model S.
Next-Gen Tesla Model S Rendering has us Hopeful for the Future!
The Tesla Model S has been around since 2012, and while it’s still a few years away from getting a full redesign, a rendering of a next-gen Model S is already making rounds on the Internet. It looks exactly like what we hope the next-gen Model S looks like. Designed by Emre Husmen, the new Model S rendering is far more aggressive and dynamic than the current model that’s on the market today. More importantly, it doesn’t deviate too far away from the current Model S to the point that it becomes unrecognizable. It’s still the Tesla Model S, albeit rendered to look sharper and edgier than what we have now. In other words, it looks fantastic.
Tesla Built 7,000 Cars in Seven Days, Including 5,000 Model 3s
It took longer than most people, including Tesla, expected, but finally, it appears that the electric car maker has finally achieved its goal of building 5,000 Model 3 units in a span of seven days. It took 24-hours, 7-days-a-week schedules to do it, but the company reported earlier this week that it had concluded its three-month build period that ended Saturday by building 53,339 vehicles, including 28,578 Model 3 sedans.
GM Offers West Wing Actress, Mary McCormack a Chevy Bolt and Twitter Goes Crazy
By now, you know about the Model S that caught fire the other day while sitting in traffic.It was owned by the husband of West Wing Actress Mary McCormack. Well, GM decided to try and burn Tesla a little more, with GM Spokesperson Ray Wert, disclosing that GM had offered to loan Mark McCormack a Chevy Bolt EV so “she has a more dependable electric vehicle to drive.” Well, there are GM haters out there everywhere, and the tables quickly turned with Wert and GM feeling an even worse burn.
West Wing Actress Not Happy With Tesla After her Husband’s Model S Catches on Fire
The Husband of a “West Wing” actress Mary McCormack was sitting in traffic when his Tesla Model S suddenly begin to spew fire from underneath the driver’s side. He was flagged by another driver and pulled over, avoiding any injury, but the actress has decided to play the drama card and send a little heat Tesla’s way.
Latest Porsche Taycan:
Tesla Model S to finally face a worthy contender?
Tesla took the EV world by storm when they launched the Roadster in 2008. Before any car manufacturer could understand what struck them, Tesla went on to create a name for itself as the King of the Electric Vehicles segment. The Roadster was followed by the Model S, a luxury sedan which went on to become the world’s best-selling electric car in 2015 and 2016, and further cemented Tesla’s dominance. If to be seen, there was no threat to the Model S as the other ’good-selling’ EV’s were the Nissan Leaf and BMW i3 - both hatchbacks with subpar range. However, it looks like the Model S might finally face some fierce competition from another luxury automaker. Read on to find out who that is:
Tesla is Slowing Its Deliveries in Norway Because of Incompetent Truck Drivers
Norway may be home to the biggest volume of Tesla owners in the world, but if you ask the automaker, it might also be home to the world’s largest number of dangerous truck drivers. That’s largely the reason why Tesla is slowing down deliveries in its biggest market per capita because, according to reports, the company has had serious issues delivering its vehicles because the trucks that are being used to deliver the cars to their dealerships are either incapable of doing so or have negligent drivers behind the wheel.
Pops’ Rants: All This Hype about Tesla Outselling German Luxury Cars in Europe Is Misleading
Tesla has been offering mass-production electric cars for six years now, and it’s safe to say that Elon Musk’s company is doing great. Sure, the Model X came a bit late and Tesla is still struggling to put the Model 3 on the assembly line, but the carmaker’s EVs are becoming increasingly popular, especially in Europe.
Norway continues to be Tesla’s second largest market after the U.S., where the Model S actually climbed atop the all-popular Volkswagen Golf. More recently, the Model S also began outselling German luxury sedans like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and BMW 7 Series in Europe for the very first time. It’s a big deal, and I can understand why most outlets are going crazy about it, but all this talk about Tesla ripping the Germans to shreds is misleading.
For starters, this has happened before in the U.S. I know, the U.S. is Tesla’s home turf, and it’s easier to sell cars here rather than export them to Europe, but it’s a valid precedent. Second, and what everyone seems to be missing, the Model S is not a competitor for the Mercedes S-Class, BMW 7 Series, and Audi A8. It’s actually more the size of theE-Class, 5 Series, and Audi A6, something Elon Musk himself stressed a while back. Here’s why this is important.
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Believe it or Not, the Tesla Model S is Outselling German Flagships in Europe!
In a surprising turn of events that not a lot of people saw coming this quickly, the Tesla Model S has shaken up the establishment after outselling some of its German rivals in Europe in 2017. The sudden twist comes as a surprise to a lot of people, even to those who have been bullish on the Model S’ ability to compete against models like the BMW 7 Series, Mercedes S-Class, and Audi A8. It’s one thing to outsell these luxury sedans in the U.S. because that’s already happening. But over in Europe, where these German titans are supposed to hold court? Big difference.
Tesla Woes: Model S and X Orders Delayed Again, This time Due to "Backlog"
The Tesla Model 3 might be sealing headlines these days, but the Model S sedan and Model X SUV are still as popular as ever. That seems to be causing issues with Tesla’s order books and production process.
Tesla announced this week that both The Model S and X are backlogged and new orders will take between four and five months to fulfill. That’s a huge increase over the standard one-month wait time Tesla customers have recently grown accustomed to.
These wait time are apparently only for U.S. customers, however. Tesla’s California assembly plant is responsible for producing the world’s supply of Model S, X, and 3s. One theory proposed by electrek.com suggests Tesla is taking this time fulfill a backlog of orders from its global markets.
On the flip side, Tesla says current Tesla owners inside the U.S. can expect to receive their pre-ordered Model 3 within three weeks, skipping the long line of Model 3 pre-orders from would-be first-time Tesla owners.
However, things get worse when considering the U.S. government’s sun-setting of the $7,500 tax credit on EV vehicles slated for the next few months. That translates into the loss of Uncle Sam’s $7,500 tax rebate credit and a $7,500 more expensive EV.
While that might not be a big deal to those shelling out $100,000 for a loaded Model S or X, $7,500 is a decent percentage of the Model 3’s $35,000 starting price.
Does a Convertible Tesla Model S Sound Enticing?
Don’t look now, but Ares Design might remain relevant in the ever-changing news cycle in the coming months. The Italian coachbuilder made headlines last week when it announced plans to develop a modern-day version of the Ferrari 412. Now it’s back in our feed with what looks to be another project in the fold, this time for the Tesla Model S. If you’ve been pining to see a convertible version of the Model S, you can stop begging Tesla to do one. Ares will do it for you.
Tesla-Based Racing Series Gets FIA Approval
The Federation Internationale de l’Automobile, otherwise known as the FIA, just gave the all-Tesla Electric GT World Series racing series its blessing following passing marks from the series’ cars in recent crash testing. Approval from the FIA, the same organization that keeps Formula 1 in check, gives the upcoming racing championship some serious clout, and moves it that much closer to becoming a reality.
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You Can Rent A Tesla In Minneapolis For Super Bowl Week
Normally, if you wanna drive around in a new Tesla for a little while, you gotta have a trusting friend with one already parked in his or her driveway. Now, one rental company in Minnesota is offering folks a shot at experiencing a Tesla first-hand by renting them out during Super Bowl week.
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Tesla Model S, Apparently On ’Autopilot,’ Crashes Into Culver City Fire Truck At High Speed
One unlucky driver down in Southern California found the limits of their Tesla’s Autopilot system this week when it rear-ended a stationary fire truck on the freeway. The incident was documented on social media in a post by the Culver City Firefighter’s Twitter account: “While working a freeway accident this morning, Engine 42 was struck by a Tesla traveling at 65 mph. The driver reports the vehicle was on autopilot,” the post reads. “Amazingly, there were no injuries! Please stay alert while driving!”
Lucky indeed. The fire truck’s rear end is a bit out of shape, but nothing major by the look of it – just a few broken taillights and a slight bend to the rear platform. The Tesla, however, looks like it’s toast, with the entire front end bunched up in a twist of metal and broken parts. We’re also a little incredulous about the whole “65 mph” claim, as something tells us the automatic braking brought the speed down substantially. Either way, kudos to Tesla for making such a safe car. Without that huge crumple zone up front, who knows what would have happened to the driver.
This is just the latest in a series of auto accidents involving the Tesla Autopilot system. We don’t know for sure if the driver is outright blaming the technology for the crash, but either way, it certainly seems like an easy way to absolve yourself of responsibility.
Of course, Tesla is quick to point out that running Autopilot doesn’t mean relinquishing control of the car. Although it does have the potential to one day reach full autonomy status, Autopilot is basically just glorified cruise control at this point. Drivers must still remain in control of their vehicle at all times. That said, the convenience and power of Autopilot seems to be leading to distracted driving and misconceptions about the system’s intended use.
Survey: Ford Mustang, Tesla Top List Of Most Desirable Cars of Average Americans
A recent survey conducted by marketing agency Digital Third Coast and automotive products company Golden Eagle revealed the average car tastes of most Americans. The survey had some predictable results, most notably the Ford Mustang staking claim as the often-stated “dream car” among most Americans. Surprisingly, though, Tesla came in second, followed by a Jeep, a Corvette, and a Camaro.
The sample size of the survey is small - only 2,000 Americans participated - relative to the study’s topic, but it did paint a seemingly accurate picture of the car tastes of most Americans. It’s not surprising that baby boomers still long to own a Chevrolet Corvette while Gen-Xer’s are still captivated by the mystique of the Chevrolet Camaro. For their part, millennials identified Tesla as their dream cars, an understandable answer considering that they’re literally coming into adulthood at the same time as Tesla is coming into its own as a legitimate automaker.
The survey also revealed that Tesla has a foothold in the Northwest, Southwest, and Pacific as the dream car among Americans living in those regions. The Mustang is well-represented by folks in the Midwest and Southeast while those living in the Mountain regions surprisingly identified the Range Rover over any kind of Jeep as their dream cars.
Tesla continues to pop up at various times in the survey, but there is a good bit of irony in the revelation that most people who identified themselves as “not knowledgeable” about cars chose the electric car maker as their dream car. It’s likely that they identify Teslas, whether it’s the Model S, Model X, or Model 3, as the cars of the future, in large part because of the company’s status as a pioneer in electrification and autonomous driving technology. These people are less captivated by the mechanical and technical intricacies of a car as they are about the possibility of going to work while the car drives them there autonomously.
On the flip side, those who identified themselves as “car experts” chose the Mustang as their dream car. Hardly a surprise there, either.
