THE automotive landscape is evolving at probably the fastest pace in its history and ambitious American electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla is leading the charge.
Carving a niche by powering the drive to plug-in power in the premium arena, its Model S electric executive hatchback is the only battery-driven model to achieve a useable mileage on a full charge. Opt for the latest, supercar-quick 90kWh battery model tested and the published range is an incredible 330 miles with 300 miles a real-world reality.
Charging takes under an hour via a Tesla Supercharger or four to six hours by domestic supply.
Perhaps most significantly though for a non-conventionally driven motor car, the Model S appeals for its high-tech desirability and performance. The fact that fuel comes from the National Grid, rather than a petrol station, simply adds weight to its case.
Whether or not the green credentials of plug-in vehicles convince – that’s another debate for another day – it’s easy to understand the appeal of this Model S.
If your idea of motoring-by-battery is coloured by the dreary Nissan LEAF then the Model S requires a complete rethink. In latest all-wheel-drive P90D guise, this is one of the fastest accelerating cars on the planet; 0-62mph is dialled up in less than three seconds.
A phenomenally good executive chariot, it can easily stand comparison against top-end executive sports saloons from Audi and BMW as well as the likes of Porsche’s Panamera.
It needs to for, even including the government £5,000 grant, prices start from £49,700. Moreover, it’s possible to take the cost north of £100k by loading up a £79,900 90D version with extra-cost equipment.
Tasteful yet high-tech, Model S’s comfortable, spacious and beautifully appointed interior is dominated by an iPad-like touch-screen controller. This operates all the car’s key features and over-the-air software updates mean it can benefit from the addition of new features throughout ownership, including Autopilot.
A driver-aid like no other, Autopilot takes adaptive cruise control a stage further by utilising radars to allow the car to self-steer to change lanes or keep the lane it’s in. Clever stuff indeed.
With coupe-like styling, the Model S certainly gets noticed. It sits low, looks sleek and always turned heads while silently sneaking along the city streets of Edinburgh.
Adjustable optional air suspension means the ride is sublime. Across tramlines and over potholes, the Model S cossets whereas encountering the same surfaces in some sporting German counterparts would be deeply uncomfortable.
Head away from the congestion and there’s even more to praise. Nimble and precise, beautifully weighted steering and perfectly set-up regenerative braking makes the car a quick, capable and easily controllable cross country charger.
Make no mistake about it, the Tesla Model S is a game-changer. Judge and jury will agree that this vehicle makes a clear-cut case for electric motoring.
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