Tesla Model S#Reception and legacy

In January 2007, the American automaker Tesla Motors opened a facility in Rochester Hills, Michigan, employing sixty people to work on new projects, including a four-door sedan.{{cite web | last=Mara | first=Janis | title=New electric cars spark interest all over Bay Area | website=East Bay Times | date=January 27, 2007 | url=https://www.eastbaytimes.com/2007/01/27/new-electric-cars-spark-interest-all-over-bay-area/ | access-date=July 28, 2024 | url-access=subscription | archive-date=July 28, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240728054225/https://www.eastbaytimes.com/2007/01/27/new-electric-cars-spark-interest-all-over-bay-area/ | url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Finley |first=Erica J. |date=January 15, 2009 |title=Electric carmaker Tesla Motors will maintain presence in Auburn Hills |url=https://www.mlive.com/businessreview/oakland/2009/01/electric_carmaker_tesla_motors.html |access-date=May 12, 2025 |publisher=MLive Media Group |language=en}} Beginning development under the codename WhiteStar,{{sfn|Vance|2016|page=272}} Tesla planned for the car to have two powertrain options. The first would be a battery-electric version with an all-electric range of {{convert|200|mi}}. The second was to be a hybrid electric vehicle with a range extender, capable of traveling between {{convert|40 and 50|mi}} on electric power before a small gasoline engine would recharge its batteries and power the vehicle, giving it a total range of {{convert|400|mi}}. However, at the GoingGreen conference in September 2008, Elon Musk—the chief executive officer of Tesla{{cite journal | author-link1=Christopher Tennant | last1=Tennant | first1=Chris | last2=Stilgoe | first2=Jack | title=The attachments of 'autonomous' vehicles | journal=Social Studies of Science | volume=51 | issue=6 | date=2021 | issn=0306-3127 | pmid=34396851 | pmc=8586182 | doi=10.1177/03063127211038752 | pages=846–870}}—announced that the company would exclusively produce battery-electric vehicles.{{sfn|Fessler|2019|page=133}}

In 2007, Musk appointed Henrik Fisker, known for his work with Aston Martin,{{cite magazine | last=Squatriglia | first=Chuck | title=Henrik Fisker's 'timeless' automotive designs | magazine=WIRED | date=July 2, 2010 | url=https://www.wired.com/2010/07/henrik-fisker-design-gallery/ | access-date=July 28, 2024 | archive-date=January 22, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210122025700/https://www.wired.com/2010/07/henrik-fisker-design-gallery/ | url-status=live }}{{cite web|last=Yeomans|first=Jon|title=Henrik Fisker: 'I left Aston Martin for my electric SUV dream'|website=The Times|url-access=subscription|date=March 26, 2023|url=https://www.thetimes.com/life-style/driving/article/henrik-fisker-i-left-aston-martin-for-my-electric-suv-dream-5vk7kzt7x|access-date=July 28, 2024|archive-date=August 20, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820052454/https://cdn.privacy-mgmt.com/wrapper/v2/messages?hasCsp=true&env=prod&body=%7B%22accountId%22%3A259%2C%22campaignEnv%22%3A%22prod%22%2C%22campaigns%22%3A%7B%22ccpa%22%3A%7B%22alwaysDisplayDNS%22%3Afalse%2C%22hasLocalData%22%3Afalse%2C%22targetingParams%22%3A%7B%7D%7D%2C%22gdpr%22%3A%7B%22consentStatus%22%3A%7B%7D%2C%22targetingParams%22%3A%7B%22acps%22%3A%22false%22%7D%7D%7D%2C%22clientMMSOrigin%22%3A%22https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.privacy-mgmt.com%22%2C%22hasCSP%22%3Atrue%2C%22includeData%22%3A%7B%22localState%22%3A%7B%22type%22%3A%22string%22%7D%2C%22actions%22%3A%7B%22type%22%3A%22RecordString%22%7D%2C%22cookies%22%3A%7B%22type%22%3A%22RecordString%22%7D%7D%2C%22propertyHref%22%3A%22https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thetimes.co.uk%22%2C%22propertyId%22%3A5049%7D&localState=null&metadata=%7B%22ccpa%22%3A%7B%22applies%22%3Afalse%7D%2C%22gdpr%22%3A%7B%22applies%22%3Afalse%7D%7D&nonKeyedLocalState=null&ch=460192774461232617bce6&scriptVersion=4.25.2&scriptType=unified|url-status=live}} as the lead designer of the WhiteStar project.{{cite news|last=Foldy|first=Ben|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/car-designer-henrik-fisker-lost-his-first-race-with-elon-musk-he-wants-to-go-again-11596811140|title=Car designer Henrik Fisker lost his first race with Elon Musk. He wants to go again.|newspaper=The Wall Street Journal|url-access=subscription|date=August 7, 2020|access-date=July 28, 2024|archive-date=June 12, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240612093910/https://www.wsj.com/articles/car-designer-henrik-fisker-lost-his-first-race-with-elon-musk-he-wants-to-go-again-11596811140|url-status=live}}{{cite web | last=Eisenstein | first=Paul A. | title=Fisker wants another shot at Tesla with a new Model Y fighter | website=CNBC | date=March 27, 2019 | url=https://www.cnbc.com/2019/03/27/fisker-wants-another-shot-at-tesla-with-a-new-model-y-fighter.html | access-date=July 28, 2024 | archive-date=July 28, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240728085142/https://www.cnbc.com/2019/03/27/fisker-wants-another-shot-at-tesla-with-a-new-model-y-fighter.html | url-status=live }} Fisker signed a US$875,000 contract to design the car.{{cite magazine | last=Squatriglia | first=Chuck | title=Sparks fly as Tesla sues Henrik Fisker over sedan design | magazine=WIRED | date=April 15, 2008 | url=https://www.wired.com/2008/04/sparks-fly-as-t/ | access-date=August 26, 2024 | archive-date=August 26, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240826002217/https://www.wired.com/2008/04/sparks-fly-as-t/ | url-status=live }} The company requested that he design a "sleek, four-door sedan" priced from $50,000–$70,000 (equivalent to ${{Inflation|US|50000|2007|fmt=c}}–${{Inflation|US|70000|2007|fmt=c}} in {{Inflation/year|US-GDP}}), and that it be ready between late 2009 and early 2010. Fisker owned a design studio in Orange County, California, which Tesla employees visited to view his designs. Their reactions were generally negative; Ron Lloyd, the vice president of the WhiteStar project, described the designs as "terrible [...] some of the early styles were like a giant egg". When Musk rejected his designs, Fisker attributed the decision to the project's physical constraints, saying, "they wouldn't let me make the car sexy".{{sfn|Vance|2016|pages=273–274}} Shortly after the meetings, Fisker started his own company{{sfn|Vance|2016|pages=273–274}} and debuted the Fisker Karma in 2008 at the North American International Auto Show.{{cite news|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB120023388768186599|title=Detroit Auto Show|newspaper=The Wall Street Journal|date=January 17, 2008|access-date=July 28, 2024|url-access=subscription|archive-date=August 20, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820052459/https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB120023388768186599|url-status=live}}{{cite news | last=Garrett | first=Jerry | title=Fisker Karma steps out with style and batteries | newspaper=The New York Times | url-access=subscription | date=February 24, 2012 | url=https://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/26/automobiles/autoreviews/fisker-karma-review.html | access-date=July 28, 2024 | archive-date=July 28, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240728222038/https://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/26/automobiles/autoreviews/fisker-karma-review.html | url-status=live }} Musk filed a lawsuit against Fisker, accusing him of stealing Tesla's design ideas and using the $875,000 to launch his own company.{{sfn|Vance|2016|pages=273–274}}{{cite news | last=Markoff | first=John | author-link=John Markoff | title=Maker of electric sports car sues a competitor | newspaper=The New York Times | url-access=subscription | date=April 15, 2008 | url=https://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/15/technology/15tesla.html | access-date=July 28, 2024 | archive-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820052452/https://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/15/technology/15tesla.html | url-status=live }} Fisker won the lawsuit in November 2008, and an arbitrator declared Tesla's claims to be without merit and ordered Tesla to reimburse Fisker's legal fees.{{sfn|Vance|2016|pages=273–274}}{{cite web | last=Henry | first=Jim | title=Fisker claims victory in Tesla lawsuit | website=CBS News | date=November 4, 2008 | url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/fisker-claims-victory-in-tesla-lawsuit/ | access-date=August 26, 2024 | archive-date=August 29, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829234547/https://www.cbsnews.com/news/fisker-claims-victory-in-tesla-lawsuit/ | url-status=live }}

File:Fisker Karma EVer EcoChic – Frontansicht (1), 6. Juni 2012, Düsseldorf.jpg

A small team of Tesla engineers went to a Mercedes-Benz car dealership where they test-drove a CLS and an E-Class. Both cars shared a chassis, and the engineers assessed different aspects of the two vehicles, evaluating their positives and negatives. They ultimately preferred the CLS's styling and used it as the baseline for the Model S. After purchasing a CLS, they disassembled it, modified the battery pack of a Tesla Roadster, cut out the CLS's floor, and integrated it with the battery pack. They subsequently put all of its electronics and systems in the CLS's trunk and replaced the interior. After three months of development, the engineers completed a battery-electric version of the CLS. They frequently tested the car on public roads. It had {{convert|120|mi}} of all-electric range per charge and weighed more than the Roadster.{{sfn|Vance|2016|pages=275–276}}

In August 2008, Musk hired Franz von Holzhausen—who formerly designed for Mazda—as project WhiteStar's lead designer.{{cite news | last=Patton | first=Phil | title=Tesla plucks a Mazda designer | newspaper=The New York Times | date=August 8, 2008 | url=https://archive.nytimes.com/wheels.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/08/08/tesla-plucks-mazda-designer/ | access-date=July 28, 2024 | archive-date=February 3, 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230203212102/https://archive.nytimes.com/wheels.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/08/08/tesla-plucks-mazda-designer/ | url-status=live }}{{cite news | title=Tesla snares Mazda's lead designer | website=Bloomberg News | date=August 4, 2008 | url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2008-08-04/tesla-snares-mazdas-lead-designerbusinessweek-business-news-stock-market-and-financial-advice | access-date=July 28, 2024 | url-access=subscription | archive-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820052458/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2008-08-04/tesla-snares-mazdas-lead-designerbusinessweek-business-news-stock-market-and-financial-advice | url-status=live }} Von Holzhausen reviewed Fisker's sketches and clay models but was unimpressed with what he saw, stating that "it was clear{{nbsp}}[...] that the people [who] had been working on this were novices". To save money, Tesla established its design center within a factory for SpaceX—a company also owned by Musk. As von Holzhausen began designing the exterior of the Model S, Tesla engineers initiated a project to construct another electric version of a CLS. They stripped it to its core, removed the body structure, and extended the wheelbase by {{convert|4|in|cm|spell=in}} to align with early Model S specifications. Within three months, von Holzhausen had designed what would become the production Model S's exterior, and the engineers had begun building a prototype around the design.{{sfn|Vance|2016|pages=278–280}} Given the battery pack's substantial weight, Musk and the team began efforts to minimize the weight of other components. To address this issue, Musk opted to use aluminum instead of steel, stating that the non-battery-pack portion of the vehicle must be lighter than equivalent gasoline vehicles. He noted that the primary challenge was that if aluminum were not used in its construction, the car's performance would be compromised.{{sfn|Vance|2016|page=281}} To accelerate the development of the Model S, one group of engineers worked during the day, while another arrived late evening and worked through the night, both operating within a {{convert|3000|sqft}} tent in the SpaceX factory.{{sfn|Vance|2016|page=283}}

File:Tesla Model S (108) (cropped).JPG at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show]]

Tesla debuted a prototype version of the Model S in Hawthorne, California, on March 26, 2009.{{cite news | agency=Associated Press | title=Tesla unveils electric 'family car of the future' | newspaper=The Guardian | date=March 27, 2009 | url=https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2009/mar/27/tesla-electric-cars-model-s | access-date=July 29, 2024 | archive-date=August 29, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829234701/https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2009/mar/27/tesla-electric-cars-model-s | url-status=live }}{{cite news | title=Tesla's Model S is here (a prototype, anyway) | newspaper=Los Angeles Times | date=March 26, 2009 | url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/blogs/money-company/story/2009-03-26/teslas-model-s-is-here-a-prototype-anyway | access-date=July 29, 2024 | archive-date=July 29, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240729114524/https://www.latimes.com/archives/blogs/money-company/story/2009-03-26/teslas-model-s-is-here-a-prototype-anyway | url-status=live }}{{cite web | first=Chris | last=Gaylord | title=The new Tesla Model S: leaks and details | website=The Christian Science Monitor | date=March 26, 2009 | url=https://www.csmonitor.com/Technology/Horizons/2009/0326/the-new-tesla-model-s-leaks-and-details | access-date=July 29, 2024 | archive-date=July 29, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240729114734/https://www.csmonitor.com/Technology/Horizons/2009/0326/the-new-tesla-model-s-leaks-and-details | url-status=live }} Tesla initially intended to manufacture the Model S in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and later in San Jose, California, but later withdrew from both plans mainly due to financial problems.{{cite news | last=Nauman | first=Matt | title=Plans for Tesla auto plant in San Jose appear doomed | newspaper=The Mercury News | date=January 29, 2009 | url=https://www.mercurynews.com/2009/01/29/plans-for-tesla-auto-plant-in-san-jose-appear-doomed/ | access-date=July 29, 2024 | archive-date=August 29, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829234653/https://www.mercurynews.com/2009/01/29/plans-for-tesla-auto-plant-in-san-jose-appear-doomed/ | url-status=live }}{{sfn|Vance|2016|page=285}} During the Great Recession, American automaker General Motors decided to abandon the NUMMI facility in 2009, with Toyota soon following.{{cite web | last=Langfitt | first=Frank | title=The end of the line for GM-Toyota joint venture | publisher=NPR | date=March 26, 2010 | url=https://www.npr.org/2010/03/26/125229157/the-end-of-the-line-for-gm-toyota-joint-venture | access-date=July 29, 2024 | archive-date=July 29, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240729150713/https://www.npr.org/2010/03/26/125229157/the-end-of-the-line-for-gm-toyota-joint-venture | url-status=live }}{{cite news | last=Avalos | first=George | title=NUMMI auto factory closing: End of the line | newspaper=The Mercury News | date=November 11, 2009 | url=https://www.mercurynews.com/2009/11/11/nummi-auto-factory-closing-end-of-the-line/ | access-date=July 29, 2024 | archive-date=July 29, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240729150714/https://www.mercurynews.com/2009/11/11/nummi-auto-factory-closing-end-of-the-line/ | url-status=live }} A month after the last car was produced at the manufacturing line in April 2010, Toyota and Tesla announced a partnership and the transfer of the factory. Tesla agreed to purchase a significant portion of the facility for $42{{nbsp}}million (equivalent ${{Inflation|US-GDP|42|2010|fmt=c}}{{nbsp}}million in {{Inflation/year|US}}), while Toyota invested $50{{nbsp}}million (equivalent to ${{Inflation|US-GDP|50|2010|fmt=c}}{{nbsp}}million in {{Inflation/year|US}}) in Tesla for a 2.5{{nbsp}}percent stake in the company.{{sfn|Vance|2016|page=289}}{{cite news | first=Josie | last=Garthwaite | title=What the Toyota-Nummi deal could mean for Tesla's public offering | newspaper=The New York Times | date=May 21, 2010 | url=https://archive.nytimes.com/www.nytimes.com/external/gigaom/2010/05/21/21gigaom-tesla-ipo-what-the-toyota-nummi-deal-could-mean-fo-4800.html | access-date=July 29, 2024 | archive-date=July 29, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240729151652/https://archive.nytimes.com/www.nytimes.com/external/gigaom/2010/05/21/21gigaom-tesla-ipo-what-the-toyota-nummi-deal-could-mean-fo-4800.html | url-status=live }}

During the early 2010s, Musk expanded the engineering teams for the Model S, while von Holzhausen grew the design teams in Los Angeles. The engineers operated in a lab with forty-five personnel. The pre-production version of the Model S, featuring newly stamped body parts from the Fremont factory, a revamped battery pack, and improved power electronics, was completed in the basement of an office in Palo Alto, California. Twelve of the cars were produced; some were sent to suppliers such as Bosch, while others were preserved for testing and design alterations.{{sfn|Vance|2016|pages=291–293}} On June 22, 2012, Tesla invited its employees, select customers, and the press to see the first production Model S in Fremont.{{sfn|Vance|2016|page=297}}{{cite news | agency=Associated Press | title=Tesla to launch its first mass-market, five-seat Model S electric car | newspaper=The Denver Post | date=June 21, 2012 | url=https://www.denverpost.com/2012/06/21/tesla-to-launch-its-first-mass-market-five-seat-model-s-electric-car/ | access-date=July 29, 2024 | archive-date=July 29, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240729162249/https://www.denverpost.com/2012/06/21/tesla-to-launch-its-first-mass-market-five-seat-model-s-electric-car/ | url-status=live }}

File:Tesla Model S & X side by side at the Gilroy Supercharger.jpg (right) share a platform and 30{{nbsp}}percent of their parts.]]

File:Tesla Model S P85D chassis, full length DSC 0724 (1) (48999177433).jpg

The body and the chassis of the Model S are made mostly of aluminum.{{sfn|Eisler|2022|page=180}}{{sfn | Martenson | 2023 | page=206}} The car shares its platform and thirty percent of its parts with the Model X,{{cite web | last=Fitzgerald | first=Jack | title=2024 Tesla Model X review, pricing, and specs | website=Car and Driver | date=December 4, 2023 | url=https://www.caranddriver.com/tesla/model-x | access-date=July 30, 2024 | archive-date=July 27, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240727132513/https://www.caranddriver.com/tesla/model-x | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Doll | first=Scooter | title=Model S vs. Model X: Tesla's expensive EVs compared | website=Screen Rant | date=October 27, 2020 | url=https://screenrant.com/model-s-vs-model-x-tesla-comparison/ | access-date=July 30, 2024 | archive-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820055115/https://screenrant.com/model-s-vs-model-x-tesla-comparison/ | url-status=live }} a mid-size luxury crossover SUV that was introduced in 2015.{{cite web | last=Paris | first=Martine | title=The EV SUVs consumers want are coming | website=BBC News | date=January 22, 2024 | url=https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20240119-the-ev-suvs-consumers-want-are-coming | access-date=July 30, 2024 | archive-date=April 4, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240404083630/https://www.bbc.com/worklife/article/20240119-the-ev-suvs-consumers-want-are-coming | url-status=live }}{{cite news | last1=Hirsch | first1=Jerry | last2=Mitchell | first2=Russ | title=Model X: Under the hood of Tesla's SUV strategy | newspaper=Los Angeles Times | date=September 30, 2015 | url=https://www.latimes.com/business/autos/la-fi-hy-tesla-model-x-20150929-story.html | url-access=subscription | access-date=July 30, 2024 | archive-date=August 29, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829234549/https://www.latimes.com/business/autos/la-fi-hy-tesla-model-x-20150929-story.html | url-status=live }} The Model S is a full-size sedan with four doors{{cite news|url=https://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-drive/reviews/new-cars/latest-tesla-is-exotic-electric-and-exciting/article4631378/|title=Latest Tesla is exotic, electric and exciting|first=Michael|last=Bettencourt|date=October 24, 2012|access-date=July 30, 2024|newspaper=The Globe and Mail|url-access=subscription|archive-date=July 30, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240730094405/https://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-drive/reviews/new-cars/latest-tesla-is-exotic-electric-and-exciting/article4631378/|url-status=live}}{{cite news | last=Solon | first=Olivia | title=Improved Tesla Model S among world's fastest-accelerating cars, company says | newspaper=The Guardian | date=August 23, 2016 | url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2016/aug/23/tesla-model-s-x-p100d-elon-musk-acceleration-battery-expensive | access-date=July 30, 2024 | archive-date=August 29, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829234550/https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2016/aug/23/tesla-model-s-x-p100d-elon-musk-acceleration-battery-expensive | url-status=live }} and five seats;{{cite news | title=2024 Tesla Model S interior, cargo space & seating | newspaper=U.S. News & World Report | url=https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/tesla/model-s/interior | access-date=July 30, 2024 | archive-date=July 30, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240730103933/https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/tesla/model-s/interior | url-status=live }}{{cite news | first=John | last=Voelcker | title=Tesla Model S 70D: Improved range, higher price for Tesla's base model | website=The Christian Science Monitor | date=April 8, 2015 | url=https://www.csmonitor.com/Business/In-Gear/2015/0408/Tesla-Model-S-70D-Improved-range-higher-price-for-Tesla-s-base-model | access-date=July 30, 2024 | archive-date=July 30, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240730104836/https://www.csmonitor.com/Business/In-Gear/2015/0408/Tesla-Model-S-70D-Improved-range-higher-price-for-Tesla-s-base-model | url-status=live }} until 2018, it had an optional folding third row with rear-facing seats for two children with a five-point harness.{{cite web | last=Pollard | first=Tim | title=Half a year living with a Tesla Model S: the long-term verdict | website=Car | date=November 7, 2018 | url=https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-reviews/long-term-tests/tesla/tesla-model-s-long-term-test-review/ | access-date=September 7, 2024}}{{cite web | last=Lambert | first=Fred | title=Tesla increases base price of Model S and Model X, makes several option changes to 'simplify offering' | website=Electrek | date=November 10, 2018 | url=https://electrek.co/2018/11/10/tesla-model-s-model-x-option-price-changes/ | access-date=April 26, 2025 | archive-date=April 21, 2025 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250421233347/https://electrek.co/2018/11/10/tesla-model-s-model-x-option-price-changes/ | url-status=live }} The company claimed a {{cd|0.24|link=car|long=yes}},{{cite web | last=Cunningham | first=Wayne | title=Tesla Model S first drive: Quiet satisfaction | website=CNET | date=June 22, 2012 | url=https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/tesla-model-s-first-drive-quiet-satisfaction/ | access-date=July 30, 2024 | archive-date=July 30, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240730120213/https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/tesla-model-s-first-drive-quiet-satisfaction/ | url-status=live }} the lowest of any production car at release.{{cite news | last=Berman | first=Bradley | title=One big step for Tesla, one giant leap for EVs | date=September 28, 2012 | issn=0362-4331 | url=https://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/30/automobiles/autoreviews/one-big-step-for-tesla-one-giant-leap-for-evs.html | language=en-US | access-date=July 30, 2024 | url-access=subscription | newspaper=The New York Times | archive-date=May 5, 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230505031511/https://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/30/automobiles/autoreviews/one-big-step-for-tesla-one-giant-leap-for-evs.html | url-status=live }} This claim was independently verified by the magazine Car and Driver in the middle of 2014.{{cite web | title=Drag queens: Aerodynamics compared | website=Car and Driver | date=June 6, 2014 | url=https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a15108689/drag-queens-aerodynamics-compared-comparison-test/ | access-date=July 30, 2024 | archive-date=February 25, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240225140412/https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a15108689/drag-queens-aerodynamics-compared-comparison-test/ | url-status=live }} The vehicle's drag coefficient was improved by a solid front fascia instead of a grille, retractable door handles, and a flat underbody with no exhaust pipes to disrupt the airflow.

The Model S's battery pack is its heaviest component{{sfn | Weber | 2022 | page=78}}{{sfn | Baer | Singer | 2024 | page=95}} and is located inside of the car's floor.{{cite web | last=Cunningham | first=Wayne | title=Tesla Model S: The battery pack | website=CNET | date=October 7, 2010 | url=https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/tesla-model-s-the-battery-pack/ | access-date=July 31, 2024 | archive-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820053030/https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/tesla-model-s-the-battery-pack/ | url-status=live }}{{sfn | Zohuri | Rahmani | Behgounia | 2022 | page=536}} The battery pack consists of thousands of identical cylindrical 18650 battery cells, each measuring {{convert|18|mm|sp=us}} in diameter and {{convert|65|mm|sp=us}} in height.{{sfn | Warner | 2024 | page=352}}{{sfn | Fuller | Harb | 2018 | page=191}} These cells feature a graphite/silicon anode,{{cite web | last=LeVine | first=Steve | title=Why did Elon Musk pass up a chance to boast about a scientific coup? | website=Quartz | date=July 21, 2015 | url=https://qz.com/459315/why-did-elon-musk-passed-up-a-chance-to-boast-about-a-scientific-coup | access-date=August 16, 2024 | archive-date=August 16, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240816164415/https://qz.com/459315/why-did-elon-musk-passed-up-a-chance-to-boast-about-a-scientific-coup | url-status=live }} and a nickel-cobalt-aluminum cathode.{{sfn | Warner | 2015 | page=189}}{{sfn | Hayes | Goodarzi | 2018 | page=70}} The Model S has a center of gravity height of {{convert|18|in}},{{sfn|Fessler|2019|page=138}}{{cite web | last=Dyer | first=Ezra | title=Tesla Model S 60: 2015 10Best Cars | website=Car and Driver | date=November 19, 2014 | url=https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a15107689/tesla-model-s-60-2015-10best-cars-feature/ | access-date=July 31, 2024 | archive-date=July 31, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240731135406/https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a15107689/tesla-model-s-60-2015-10best-cars-feature/ | url-status=live }} reducing the risk of rollovers.{{sfn | Favaro | 2017 | page=113}}{{cite web | title=Tesla crash test: Tesla Model S is the safest car in the history of the NHTSA | first=Antony | last=Ingram | website=The Christian Science Monitor | date=August 20, 2013 | url=https://www.csmonitor.com/Business/In-Gear/2013/0820/Tesla-crash-test-Tesla-Model-S-is-the-safest-car-in-the-history-of-the-NHTSA | access-date=July 31, 2024 | archive-date=July 31, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240731140429/https://www.csmonitor.com/Business/In-Gear/2013/0820/Tesla-crash-test-Tesla-Model-S-is-the-safest-car-in-the-history-of-the-NHTSA | url-status=live }} Since the heavier components of the drivetrain are positioned behind the rear axle's centerline, the Model S has a weight distribution of 46{{nbsp}}percent at the front and 54{{nbsp}}percent at the rear. The Model S has a single-speed reduction gear transmission.{{cite web | last=VanderWerp | first=Dave | title=Tesla Model S Plaid can't go 200 MPH. And you wouldn't want to | magazine=Car and Driver | date=December 8, 2021 | url=https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a38453459/tesla-model-s-plaid-top-speed-200-mph/ | access-date=August 2, 2024 | archive-date=August 2, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240802133448/https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a38453459/tesla-model-s-plaid-top-speed-200-mph/ | url-status=live }} Rear-wheel drive models use a single alternating current induction motor; all-wheel drive models before 2019 featured two. However, from 2019, the dual-motor models featured a rear induction motor and front permanent magnet synchronous reluctance motor.{{cite web | last=Lee | first=Timothy B. | title=Motor technology from Model 3 helps Tesla boost Model S range 10% | website=Ars Technica | date=April 24, 2019 | url=https://arstechnica.com/cars/2019/04/motor-technology-from-model-3-helps-tesla-boost-model-s-range-10/ | access-date=August 25, 2024 | archive-date=January 21, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210121072656/https://arstechnica.com/cars/2019/04/motor-technology-from-model-3-helps-tesla-boost-model-s-range-10/ | url-status=live }}{{NoteTag|The new motor technology increased the range by ten percent. In an induction motor, alternating current in the stator (the stationary part) creates a rotating magnetic field. This field induces currents in the rotor (the spinning part), producing a magnetic field that causes the rotor to spin in the same direction. In a synchronous reluctance motor, the stator has electromagnets, but the rotor has no windings or magnets. Instead, it is made of magnetic and non-magnetic materials arranged to align with the stator's magnetic field, driving the rotor's movement.}} The Plaid model, introduced in 2021, uses three permanent magnet synchronous reluctance motors.

A cast aluminum cross-member attached to the vehicle's body structure supports the front suspension and electrically assisted rack-and-pinion steering system. At the rear, a cast subframe is connected to the body using four rubber-isolated mounts to reduce vibrations. The front suspension features a double control arm design, while the rear suspension uses a multi-link arrangement, each with an air spring for improved ride comfort.{{cite web | last=Sherman | first=Don | title=2012 Tesla Model S electric sedan | website=Car and Driver | date=January 11, 2011 | url=https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a15127652/2012-tesla-model-s-detailed-info-tesla-model-s-news/ | access-date=July 29, 2024 | archive-date=July 29, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240729095155/https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a15127652/2012-tesla-model-s-detailed-info-tesla-model-s-news/ | url-status=live }}{{cite magazine | last=Markus | first=Frank | title=2014 Tesla Model S P85+ vs. 2014 BMW i8 comparison | website=Motor Trend | date=August 11, 2014 | url=https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2014-tesla-model-s-p85-vs-2014-bmw-i8-comparison/ | access-date=August 3, 2024 | archive-date=August 3, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240803135151/https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2014-tesla-model-s-p85-vs-2014-bmw-i8-comparison/ | url-status=live }} This chassis also features disc brake components produced by Brembo.{{cite web | last=Verpraet | first=Illya | title=Tesla Model S Plaid review | website=Autocar | date=August 11, 2023 | url=https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/tesla/model-s-plaid | access-date=July 31, 2024 | archive-date=June 5, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240605215507/https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-review/tesla/model-s-plaid | url-status=live }} Since the Model S lacks a front engine, Tesla implemented a "frunk",{{NoteTag|A portmanteau of "front" and "trunk"}} which has {{convert|5.3|cuft|L}} of storage.{{sfn | Johnston| Sobey | 2022 | page=87}}{{cite web | title=2017 Tesla Model S interior, cargo space & seating | website=U.S. News and World Report | url=https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/tesla/model-s/2017/interior | access-date=August 1, 2024 | archive-date=August 1, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240801094644/https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/tesla/model-s/2017/interior | url-status=live }} The car's rear trunk possesses {{convert|26.6|cuft|L}} of storage with the rear seats upright and {{convert|58.1|cuft|L}} when the seats are folded down.{{cite web | title=2014 Tesla Model S interior, cargo space & seating | website=U.S. News and World Report | url=https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/tesla/model-s/2014/interior | access-date=August 1, 2024 | archive-date=August 1, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240801115000/https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/tesla/model-s/2014/interior | url-status=live }}{{Cite news|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/tesla-model-s-the-future-is-here-1428086202|title=Tesla Model S: The future is here|newspaper=The Wall Street Journal|url-access=subscription|first=Dan|last=Neil|author-link=Dan Neil (journalist)|date=April 3, 2015|access-date=August 3, 2024|archive-date=August 3, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240803140202/https://www.wsj.com/articles/tesla-model-s-the-future-is-here-1428086202|url-status=live}} Initially, the seats and steering wheel of the Model S were offered in both synthetic and non-synthetic leather options. In 2017, following a request from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals to become the first cruelty-free automaker, Tesla switched exclusively to synthetic leather.{{cite magazine | last=Brady | first=Duncan | title=The inconvenient truth about vegan leather in cars | magazine=Motor Trend | date=August 23, 2023 | url=https://www.motortrend.com/features/vegan-leather-in-cars/ | access-date=August 3, 2024}}{{cite web | last=Lorio | first=Joe | title=Impossible leather: Automakers promote animal-free interiors | website=Car and Driver | date=February 1, 2022 | url=https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a38915719/faux-leather-vegan-automobile-interiors/ | access-date=August 3, 2024}}{{cite web | title=Tesla Model S: The ultimate buyer's guide | website=Jalopnik | date=October 21, 2015 | url=https://jalopnik.com/tesla-model-s-the-ultimate-buyers-guide-1737032739 | access-date=September 7, 2024}}

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Tesla allocated its initial 1,000 Model S units to the "Signature" limited edition configurations.{{cite news | last=Garthwaite | first=Josie | title=Tesla prepares for a gap as Roadster winds down | newspaper=The New York Times | date=May 6, 2011 | url=https://www.nytimes.com/2011/05/08/automobiles/08TESLA.html?_r=1&emc=eta1 | access-date=August 5, 2024 | url-access=subscription | archive-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820055144/https://www.nytimes.com/2011/05/08/automobiles/08TESLA.html?_r=1&emc=eta1 | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Ziegler | first=Chris | title=Going the distance: Driving the Tesla Model S in the real world | website=The Verge | date=February 12, 2013 | url=https://www.theverge.com/2013/2/12/3969260/going-the-distance-driving-tesla-model-s-in-the-real-world | access-date=August 5, 2024 | archive-date=August 5, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240805044039/https://www.theverge.com/2013/2/12/3969260/going-the-distance-driving-tesla-model-s-in-the-real-world | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Robinson | first=Aaron | title=2013 Tesla Model S | website=Car and Driver | date=August 8, 2012 | url=https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a15119435/2013-tesla-model-s-reviews/ | access-date=August 5, 2024 | archive-date=August 5, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240805045049/https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a15119435/2013-tesla-model-s-reviews/ | url-status=live }} The AC induction motor of the base Signature model generates a power output of {{cvt|362|hp|kW|order=flip||lk=on}} and a torque output of {{convert|324|lbft|Nm|sp=us|order=flip||lk=on}}.{{cite web | last=Markus | first=Frank | title=2012 Tesla Model S first drive | website=Motor Trend | date=June 22, 2012 | url=https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2012-tesla-model-s-first-drive/ | access-date=August 5, 2024 | archive-date=August 5, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240805053627/https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2012-tesla-model-s-first-drive/ | url-status=live }} The Signature Performance's motor produces {{cvt|416|hp|kW|order=flip}} and {{convert|443|lbft|Nm|sp=us|order=flip}}.{{cite web | last=Csere | first=Csaba | title=Tested: 2012 Tesla Model S takes electric cars to a higher level | website=Car and Driver | date=December 21, 2012 | url=https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a15117388/2013-tesla-model-s-test-review/ | access-date=August 5, 2024 | archive-date=August 5, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240805064205/https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a15117388/2013-tesla-model-s-test-review/ | url-status=live }}{{cite news|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052702304211804577504632238740966|title=I am silent, hear me roar|newspaper=The Wall Street Journal|date=July 6, 2012|first=Dan|last=Neil|author-link=Dan Neil (journalist)|access-date=August 5, 2024|url-access=subscription|archive-date=August 5, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240805064452/https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052702304211804577504632238740966|url-status=live}} Both models incorporate an 85{{nbsp}}kilowatt-hour (kWh) lithium-ion battery,{{cite news | last=Stenquist | first=Paul | title=Tesla Model S offers a lesson in electric-vehicle economics | newspaper=The New York Times | date=June 26, 2012 | url=https://archive.nytimes.com/wheels.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/06/25/tesla-model-s-offers-a-lesson-in-electric-vehicle-economics/ | access-date=August 5, 2024 | archive-date=August 5, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240805065406/https://archive.nytimes.com/wheels.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/06/25/tesla-model-s-offers-a-lesson-in-electric-vehicle-economics/ | url-status=live }} and have an all-electric range of {{convert|265|mi}}.{{cite web | title=2012 Tesla Model S: Drive review: The most fully realized EV on the market is a (very quiet) hoot | website=Autoweek | date=June 24, 2012 | url=https://www.autoweek.com/drives/a1949556/2012-tesla-model-s-drive-review-most-fully-realized-ev-market-very-quiet-hoot/ | access-date=August 5, 2024 | archive-date=August 5, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240805051826/https://www.autoweek.com/drives/a1949556/2012-tesla-model-s-drive-review-most-fully-realized-ev-market-very-quiet-hoot/ | url-status=live }}

Beginning in 2012, three battery pack configurations of the Model S were offered as 2013 model year{{NoteTag|It is common practice in the American automotive industry to introduce a model year's automobile during the previous calendar year.{{cite web |last1=Antich |first1=Mike |title=Model-year versus calendar-year |url=https://www.automotive-fleet.com/158274/model-year-versus-calendar-year |work=Automotive Fleet |access-date=May 6, 2021 |date=June 15, 2010 |archive-date=May 6, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210506205830/https://www.automotive-fleet.com/158274/model-year-versus-calendar-year |url-status=live }}}} vehicles.{{cite web | title=2013 Motor Trend Car of the Year contender: Tesla Model S | website=Motor Trend | date=November 7, 2012 | url=https://www.motortrend.com/news/2013-motor-trend-car-of-the-year-contender-tesla-model-s-287917/ | access-date=August 8, 2024 | archive-date=August 8, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240808031416/https://www.motortrend.com/news/2013-motor-trend-car-of-the-year-contender-tesla-model-s-287917/ | url-status=live }} Initially, a 40{{nbsp}}kWh lithium-ion model was planned as the entry-level version, but Tesla announced in 2013 that this version would not be produced.{{cite web | last=Buckley | first=Sean | title=Tesla Model S axes 40 kWh battery option, surpasses sales goals | website=Engadget | date=April 1, 2013 | url=https://www.engadget.com/2013-04-01-tesla-model-s-axes-40kwh-battery-option.html | access-date=August 8, 2024 | archive-date=August 8, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240808032425/https://www.engadget.com/2013-04-01-tesla-model-s-axes-40kwh-battery-option.html | url-status=live }} The motor of this version was to produce a power output of {{convert|235|hp|order=flip}} and a torque of {{convert|310|lbft|Nm|sp=us|order=flip}}.{{cite magazine | last=Lavrinc | first=Damon | title=Tesla 'cancels' lowest-spec Model S, expects full profitability in Q1 2013 | magazine=WIRED | date=April 1, 2013 | url=https://www.wired.com/2013/04/tesla-model-s-40-kwh/ | access-date=August 8, 2024 | archive-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820053035/https://www.wired.com/2013/04/tesla-model-s-40-kwh/ | url-status=live }}{{cite web | title=Top Tech Cars 2013: Tesla Model S | website=IEEE Spectrum | first=Lawerence | last=Ulrich | date=March 29, 2013 | url=https://spectrum.ieee.org/tesla-model-s | access-date=August 8, 2024 | archive-date=August 8, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240808054340/https://spectrum.ieee.org/tesla-model-s | url-status=live }}{{cite web | title=2013 Tesla Model S performance | website=U.S. News & World Report | url=https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/tesla/model-s/2013/performance | access-date=August 8, 2024 | archive-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820053046/https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/tesla/model-s/2013/performance | url-status=live }} Instead, a more powerful model with a 60{{nbsp}}kWh model—with its output limited to 40{{nbsp}}kWh via software—was introduced to substitute the 40{{nbsp}}kWh model. Its motor generates {{convert|302|hp|order=flip}} and {{convert|317|lbft|Nm|sp=us|order=flip}},{{cite web | title=2014 Tesla Model S review, pricing, and specs | website=Car and Driver | date=December 7, 2023 | url=https://www.caranddriver.com/tesla/model-s/specs/2014/tesla_model-s_tesla-model-s_2014 | access-date=August 8, 2024 | archive-date=August 8, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240808055815/https://www.caranddriver.com/tesla/model-s/specs/2014/tesla_model-s_tesla-model-s_2014 | url-status=live }} providing it with a range of {{convert|208|mi}}.{{cite web | last=Sabatini | first=Jeff | title=Tested: 2014 Tesla Model S 60 | website=Car and Driver | date=November 6, 2014 | url=https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a15108049/2014-tesla-model-s-60-full-test-review/ | access-date=August 8, 2024 | archive-date=August 8, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240808055815/https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a15108049/2014-tesla-model-s-60-full-test-review/ | url-status=live }} Two versions of the 85{{nbsp}}kWh model were created: one with specifications similar to the aforementioned Signature model, and a performance version, the "P85", with specifications akin to the Signature Performance.{{cite web | last=Reynolds | first=Kim | title=2013 Tesla Model S P85+ Review | website=Motor Trend | date=March 16, 2015 | url=https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2013-tesla-model-s-p85-review-verdict/ | access-date=August 8, 2024 | archive-date=August 3, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240803132227/https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2013-tesla-model-s-p85-review-verdict/ | url-status=live }}

In 2014, Tesla discontinued the P85, replacing it with the P85D ("D" stands for "dual").{{cite web | first=Stephen | last=Edelstein | title=2014 Tesla Model S: Number of variants and options cut | website=The Christian Science Monitor | date=November 14, 2014 | url=https://www.csmonitor.com/Business/In-Gear/2014/1114/2014-Tesla-Model-S-Number-of-variants-and-options-cut | access-date=August 8, 2024 | archive-date=August 8, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240808070157/https://www.csmonitor.com/Business/In-Gear/2014/1114/2014-Tesla-Model-S-Number-of-variants-and-options-cut | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Reynolds | first=Kim | title=2015 Tesla Model S P85D first test | website=Motor Trend | date=November 3, 2014 | url=https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2015-tesla-model-s-p85d-first-test/ | access-date=August 8, 2024 | archive-date=March 23, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240323051626/https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2015-tesla-model-s-p85d-first-test/ | url-status=live }} Tesla introduced a front motor in the P85D, in addition to the existing rear motor used in previous models. This configuration powers both the front and rear wheels, resulting in an all-wheel drive powertrain.{{cite web | last=Undercoffler | first=David | title=Review: The sublime Tesla Model S P85D | website=Los Angeles Times | url-access=subscription | date=February 20, 2015 | url=https://www.latimes.com/business/autos/la-fi-hy-review-tesla-model-s-p85d-20150220-story.html | access-date=August 8, 2024 | archive-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820053047/https://www.latimes.com/business/autos/la-fi-hy-review-tesla-model-s-p85d-20150220-story.html | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Groom | first=Nichola | title=Tesla unveils all-wheel drive Model S, 'autopilot' features | work=Reuters | date=October 10, 2014 | url=https://www.reuters.com/article/business/tesla-unveils-all-wheel-drive-model-s-autopilot-features-idUSKCN0HZ08Z/ | access-date=August 8, 2024}} The two motors produce a combined output of {{convert|691|hp|kW|order=flip}} and {{convert|687|lbft|Nm|sp=us|order=flip}}, giving it a range of {{convert|275|mi}}.{{cite web | last=Quiroga | first=Tony | title=Tesla adds AWD to Model S, creates 691-hp P85D | website=Car and Driver | date=October 10, 2014 | url=https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a15359901/tesla-unveils-the-d-every-model-s-now-offers-awd-including-staggering-691-hp-p85d/ | access-date=August 8, 2024 | archive-date=August 8, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240808121359/https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a15359901/tesla-unveils-the-d-every-model-s-now-offers-awd-including-staggering-691-hp-p85d/ | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Cantle | first=Chris | title=Tesla Model S P85D: Dual motors, AWD, 691 hp, 3.2 to 60 | website=Road & Track | date=October 9, 2014 | url=https://www.roadandtrack.com/new-cars/news/a6358/first-look-tesla-model-s-p85d-dual-motor/ | access-date=August 8, 2024 | archive-date=April 13, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190413045732/https://www.roadandtrack.com/new-cars/news/a6358/first-look-tesla-model-s-p85d-dual-motor/ | url-status=live }} Replacing the 60{{nbsp}}kWh model,{{cite web | last1=Ewing | first1=Steven | last2=Rogers | first2=Cameron | last3=Shaw | first3=Kristin | last4=Buglewicz | first4=Keith | last5=Simone | first5=Clint | last6=Yekikian | first6=Nick | title=Used 2015 Tesla Model S 70D sedan review & ratings | publisher=Edmunds | url=https://www.edmunds.com/tesla/model-s/2015/st-200733228/review/ | access-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820053043/https://www.edmunds.com/tesla/model-s/2015/st-200733228/review/ | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Nishimoto | first=Alex | title=514-HP, dual-motor Tesla Model S 70D replaces base 60-kWh car | website=Motor Trend | date=April 8, 2015 | url=https://www.motortrend.com/news/hp-dual-motor-tesla-model-s-70d-replaces-base-60-kwh-car/ | access-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240809040734/https://www.motortrend.com/news/hp-dual-motor-tesla-model-s-70d-replaces-base-60-kwh-car/ | url-status=live }} the 70D was introduced as a 2015 model year vehicle. It features dual motors that produce a combined output of {{convert|514|hp|kW|order=flip}} and {{convert|387|Nm|sp=us|lbft}}, allowing it to have a range of {{convert|240|mi}}.{{cite web | title=Tesla Model S 70D is the new, 514-hp AWD base model | first=Bob | last=Sorokanich | website=Car and Driver | date=April 8, 2015 | url=https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a15356291/the-tesla-model-s-70d-is-the-new-514-hp-awd-base-model/ | access-date=August 9, 2024}}{{cite web | last=Vincent | first=James | title=Tesla's new entry-level sedan is the faster, all-wheel drive Model S 70D | website=The Verge | date=April 8, 2015 | url=https://www.theverge.com/2015/4/8/8368897/tesla-model-s-70d-price-specs-entry-level | access-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240809041213/https://www.theverge.com/2015/4/8/8368897/tesla-model-s-70d-price-specs-entry-level | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Tingwall | first=Eric | title=Tesla Model S 70 / 70D: 2016 10Best Cars | website=Car and Driver | date=November 18, 2015 | url=https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a15104936/tesla-model-s-70-70d-2016-10best-cars-feature/ | access-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240809041213/https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a15104936/tesla-model-s-70-70d-2016-10best-cars-feature/ | url-status=live }} A single-motor version of the 70{{nbsp}}kWh model was also produced, with an output of {{convert|315|hp|kW|order=flip}} and {{convert|325|Nm|sp=us|lbft}}, giving it a range of {{convert|210|mi}}.

In 2015, Tesla launched the standard 90D and the performance P90D to succeed the 85 kWh model and the P85D, respectively.{{cite web | title=2015 Tesla Model S review & ratings | publisher=Edmunds | url=https://www.edmunds.com/tesla/model-s/2015/review/ | access-date=August 8, 2024 | archive-date=August 8, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240808130527/https://www.edmunds.com/tesla/model-s/2015/review/ | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Smith | first=Dave | title=Watch an 'insane mode' Tesla race a 'ludicrous mode' Tesla | website=Business Insider | date=September 23, 2015 | url=https://www.businessinsider.com/tesla-model-s-insane-mode-vs-ludicrous-mode-2015-9 | access-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240809053101/https://www.businessinsider.com/tesla-model-s-insane-mode-vs-ludicrous-mode-2015-9 | url-status=live }}{{cite web | first=Joel | last=Feder | title=Tesla quietly kills 85-kWh Model S battery pack option | website=The Christian Science Monitor | date=February 11, 2016 | url=https://www.csmonitor.com/Business/In-Gear/2016/0211/Tesla-quietly-kills-85-kWh-Model-S-battery-pack-option | access-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240809053728/https://www.csmonitor.com/Business/In-Gear/2016/0211/Tesla-quietly-kills-85-kWh-Model-S-battery-pack-option | url-status=live }} The 90D's motor produces {{convert|417|hp|kW|order=flip}} and {{convert|485|lbft|Nm|sp=us|order=flip}},{{cite web | title=2016 Tesla Model S 90D 4dr sdn AWD features and specs | website=Car and Driver | url=https://www.caranddriver.com/tesla/model-s/specs/2016/tesla_model-s_tesla-model-s_2016 | access-date=August 9, 2024}}{{cite web | last1=Goodwin | first1=Antuan | last2=Cunningham | first2=Wayne | title=Sedan shoot-out: Audi S7 vs. Tesla Model S 90D | website=Robb Report | date=August 7, 2016 | url=https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/sedan-shoot-out-audi-s7-vs-tesla-model-s-90d-232648/ | access-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240809075139/https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/sedan-shoot-out-audi-s7-vs-tesla-model-s-90d-232648/ | url-status=live }} and a range of {{convert|288|mi}}.{{cite web | title=Tesla Model S (2014 onwards) specs & dimensions | website=Parker's | url=https://www.parkers.co.uk/tesla/model-s/saloon-2014/90d-all-wheel-drive-auto-5d/specs/ | access-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240809081644/https://www.parkers.co.uk/tesla/model-s/saloon-2014/90d-all-wheel-drive-auto-5d/specs/ | url-status=live }} The P90D's dual motors generate a combined output of {{convert|762|hp|kW|order=flip}} and {{convert|713|lbft|Nm|sp=us|order=flip}},{{cite web | title=Tesla Model S review: the Model S P90D | website=Top Gear | publisher=BBC | date=February 5, 2016 | url=https://www.topgear.com/car-reviews/tesla/model-s/90kwh-performance-5dr/first-drive | access-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-date=August 29, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829235100/https://www.topgear.com/car-reviews/tesla/model-s/90kwh-performance-5dr/first-drive | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Seabaugh | first=Christian | title=2015 Tesla Model S P90D w/Ludicrous upgrade first test | website=Motor Trend | date=October 28, 2015 | url=https://www.motortrend.com/features/2015-tesla-model-s-p90d-ludicrous-upgrade-first-test-review/ | access-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240809090012/https://www.motortrend.com/features/2015-tesla-model-s-p90d-ludicrous-upgrade-first-test-review/ | url-status=live }} and the car has a range of {{convert|268|mi}}.{{cite web | last=Stoklosa | first=Alexander | title=Tesla introduces 762-hp Model S, Ludicrous mode, new base model | website=Car and Driver | date=July 17, 2015 | url=https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a15354102/tesla-loses-its-freaking-mind-introduces-762-hp-model-s-ludicrous-mode-new-base-model/ | access-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240809090012/https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a15354102/tesla-loses-its-freaking-mind-introduces-762-hp-model-s-ludicrous-mode-new-base-model/ | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Sherman | first=Don | title=2015 Tesla Model S P90D: Quickest sedan ever? | website=Car and Driver | date=January 29, 2016 | url=https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a15103960/2015-tesla-model-s-p90d-test-review/ | access-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240809090012/https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a15103960/2015-tesla-model-s-p90d-test-review/ | url-status=live }}

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| alt1 = A front three-quarters view of a white 2016 Tesla Model S

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| caption1 = The Model S and its prominently revised front fascia

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In April 2016, Tesla implemented a facelift for the Model S, releasing these cars for the 2017 model year.{{cite web | last=Weiner | first=Eric | title=Tesla Model S refreshed with new nose, upgraded charger | website=Motor Trend | date=April 12, 2016 | url=https://www.motortrend.com/news/tesla-model-s-refreshed-new-nose-upgraded-charger/ | access-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240809103535/https://www.motortrend.com/news/tesla-model-s-refreshed-new-nose-upgraded-charger/ | url-status=live }}{{cite web | title=Tesla Model S gets a 2017 facelift | website=Yahoo News | date=April 12, 2016 | url=https://sg.news.yahoo.com/tesla-model-gets-2017-facelift-162045805.html | access-date=August 9, 2024 | agency=Agence France-Presse | archive-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240809113708/https://sg.news.yahoo.com/tesla-model-gets-2017-facelift-162045805.html | url-status=live }} Its most prominent update lies in its front fascia, where the previous black grille has been replaced by a continuation of the body, leaving only a thin gap between the leading edge of the hood and the bumper, which houses the Tesla logo.{{cite web | last=LeBeau | first=Phil | title=Tesla's Model S getting a facelift | website=CNBC | date=April 12, 2016 | url=https://www.cnbc.com/2016/04/12/teslas-model-s-getting-a-facelift.html | access-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240809112420/https://www.cnbc.com/2016/04/12/teslas-model-s-getting-a-facelift.html | url-status=live }} The updated model also includes restyled, full-LED adaptive headlights that turn with the car to enhance visibility at night.{{cite web | last=Dron | first=Will | title=Tesla Model S P90D review (2016 facelift) | website=The Sunday Times | date=September 9, 2016 | url=https://www.driving.co.uk/car-reviews/tesla-model-s-p90d-review-2016-facelift-2/ | access-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-date=August 9, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240809112046/https://www.driving.co.uk/car-reviews/tesla-model-s-p90d-review-2016-facelift-2/ | url-status=live }}

That same year, Tesla reintroduced the 60{{nbsp}}kWh model and introduced an all-wheel-drive version, the 60D.{{cite web | last=O'Kane | first=Sean | title=Tesla just released two cheaper versions of the Model S | website=The Verge | date=June 9, 2016 | url=https://www.theverge.com/2016/6/9/11893504/tesla-model-s-60d-price-range | access-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-date=August 29, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829235100/https://www.theverge.com/2016/6/9/11893504/tesla-model-s-60d-price-range | url-status=live }}{{cite web | title=Tesla introduces two cheaper versions of Model S | website=BBC News | date=June 9, 2016 | url=https://www.bbc.com/news/business-36493166 | access-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-date=August 29, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829235101/https://www.bbc.com/news/business-36493166 | url-status=live }} The former produces {{convert|315|hp|kW|order=flip}} of power and {{convert|325|Nm|sp=us|lbft}} of torque, giving it a range of {{convert|210|mi}}.{{cite web | last=Lieberman | first=Jonny | title=Tesla Model S 60/75: 2017 Motor Trend Car of the Year finalist | website=Motor Trend | date=November 1, 2016 | url=https://www.motortrend.com/news/tesla-model-s-60-75-2017-car-of-the-year-finalist/ | access-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240813092450/https://www.motortrend.com/news/tesla-model-s-60-75-2017-car-of-the-year-finalist/ | url-status=live }}{{cite web | title=Compare 2015 Tesla Model S vs. 2016 Tesla Model S vs. 2017 Tesla Model S | website=U.S. News & World Report | url=https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/compare?trims=12891-374420_13121-386836_13339-390567 | access-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-date=August 29, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829235116/https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/compare?trims=12891-374420_13121-386836_13339-390567 | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Hall | first=Emme | title=2016 Tesla Model S 60 review: 2016 Tesla Model S, now with fewer miles for less money | website=CNET | date=November 7, 2016 | url=https://www.cnet.com/reviews/2016-tesla-model-s-review/ | access-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240813084206/https://www.cnet.com/reviews/2016-tesla-model-s-review/ | url-status=live }} The latter has dual motors that produce {{convert|324|hp|kW|order=flip}} and {{convert|317|lbft|Nm|sp=us|order=flip}}, with a range of {{convert|253|mi}}.{{cite web | last=Smith | first=Giles | title=First Drive review: 2016 Tesla Model S 60D | website=The Sunday Times | date=November 8, 2016 | url=https://www.driving.co.uk/car-reviews/first-drive/first-drive-review-2016-tesla-model-s-60d/ | access-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240813095204/https://www.driving.co.uk/car-reviews/first-drive/first-drive-review-2016-tesla-model-s-60d/ | url-status=live }} Customers also had the option to upgrade the battery capacity to 75{{nbsp}}kWh through an over-the-air update, extending the range by {{convert|40|mi}}. In March 2017, Tesla discontinued the 60{{nbsp}}kWh model to distinguish its premium cars from the cheaper options, making the 75{{nbsp}}kWh model the new entry-level offering.{{cite web | last=Silvestro | first=Brian | title=Tesla discontinues base 60 kWh Model S trim level ahead of Model 3 launch | website=Road & Track | date=March 19, 2017 | url=https://www.roadandtrack.com/new-cars/news/a32972/tesla-discontinues-base-60-kwh-model-s-trim-level-ahead-of-model-3-launch/ | access-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240813100243/https://www.roadandtrack.com/new-cars/news/a32972/tesla-discontinues-base-60-kwh-model-s-trim-level-ahead-of-model-3-launch/ | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Golson | first=Jordan | title=Tesla is discontinuing its cheapest car, the 60kWh Model S | website=The Verge | date=March 17, 2017 | url=https://www.theverge.com/2017/3/17/14962268/tesla-model-s-60kwh-battery-discontinue | access-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240813100511/https://www.theverge.com/2017/3/17/14962268/tesla-model-s-60kwh-battery-discontinue | url-status=live }}

In late 2016, Tesla introduced the P100D as a replacement for the P90D.{{cite web | last=Fink | first=Greg S. | title=Tesla Model S and Model X P100D replaces P90D | website=Car and Driver | date=November 4, 2016 | url=https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a15344797/its-a-glass-tesla-discontinues-p90d-trim-adds-glass-roof-option/ | access-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240813104204/https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a15344797/its-a-glass-tesla-discontinues-p90d-trim-adds-glass-roof-option/ | url-status=live }} The P100D's motors generate a combined output {{convert|680|hp|kW|order=flip}} and {{convert|791|lbft|Nm|sp=us|order=flip}}, allowing it to have a range of {{convert|315|mi}}.{{cite web | last=Mills | first=James | title=Flying start: Tesla says Model S P100D is world's fastest-accelerating car | website=The Sunday Times | date=August 25, 2016 | url=https://www.driving.co.uk/news/high-voltage-tesla-says-model-s-p100d-worlds-fastest-accelerating-car/ | access-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240813110828/https://www.driving.co.uk/news/high-voltage-tesla-says-model-s-p100d-worlds-fastest-accelerating-car/ | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Brantley | first=Brian | title=2017 Tesla Model S P100D first test: A new record—0–60 mph in 2.28 seconds! | website=Motor Trend | date=February 7, 2017 | url=https://www.motortrend.com/features/2017-tesla-model-s-p100d-first-test-review/ | access-date=August 13, 2024}}{{cite web | last=Sorokanich | first=Bob | title=The Tesla Roadster is not the "fastest car in the world" | website=Road & Track | date=November 17, 2017 | url=https://www.roadandtrack.com/new-cars/news/a30536/tesla-model-s-p100d-quickest-not-fastest/ | access-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240813105326/https://www.roadandtrack.com/new-cars/news/a30536/tesla-model-s-p100d-quickest-not-fastest/ | url-status=live }} In early 2017, Tesla introduced the 100D.{{cite web | last=Lin | first=Kelly | title=Tesla Model S 100D rated to travel 335 miles on a charge | website=Motor Trend | date=January 23, 2017 | url=https://www.motortrend.com/news/tesla-model-s-100d-rated-travel-335-miles-charge/ | access-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240813110238/https://www.motortrend.com/news/tesla-model-s-100d-rated-travel-335-miles-charge/ | url-status=live }} Its dual motors deliver {{convert|483|hp|kW|order=flip}} and {{convert|487|lbft|Nm|sp=us|order=flip}}, and it has a range of {{convert|335|mi}}.{{cite web | last=Capparella | first=Joey | title=2018 Tesla Model S 100D is the longest-range EV we've ever tested | website=Car and Driver | date=November 1, 2018 | url=https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a23288533/2018-tesla-model-s-100d-range/ | access-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240813111137/https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a23288533/2018-tesla-model-s-100d-range/ | url-status=live }}{{cite news|title=We tested the Tesla Model S against the Porsche Taycan on a cottage road trip|newspaper=The Globe and Mail|issn=0319-0714|date=January 11, 2021|id={{ProQuest|2476512369}}|first=Matt|last=Bubbers}} Midway through 2017, Tesla discontinued the 90D.{{cite web | last=Lambert | first=Fred | title=Tesla will discontinue the 90 kWh battery pack next week | website=Electrek | date=June 2, 2017 | url=https://electrek.co/2017/06/02/tesla-discontinue-90-kwh-battery-pack/ | access-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-date=February 7, 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230207175536/https://electrek.co/2017/06/02/tesla-discontinue-90-kwh-battery-pack/ | url-status=live }} Tesla subsequently ended production of the rear-wheel-drive 75{{nbsp}}kWh model in late 2017.{{cite web | last=Li | first=Vivian | title=Tesla to discontinue their most affordable Model S | website=GQ | date=September 22, 2017 | url=https://www.gq.com.au/lifestyle/cars/tesla-to-discontinue-their-most-affordable-model-s/news-story/344925c7e7ba89196037d4849086456c | access-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-date=April 20, 2019 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190420075028/https://www.gq.com.au/lifestyle/cars/tesla-to-discontinue-their-most-affordable-model-s/news-story/344925c7e7ba89196037d4849086456c | url-status=live }} In 2019, Tesla replaced the 75D, 100D, and P100D variants as part of the company's shift towards a revamped model range.{{cite web | last=Capparella | first=Joey | title=Tesla is getting rid of the base 75D Model S and Model X | website=Car and Driver | date=January 10, 2019 | url=https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a25844349/tesla-model-s-75d-battery/ | access-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240813120322/https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a25844349/tesla-model-s-75d-battery/ | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Dorian | first=Drew | title=2019 Tesla Model S review, pricing, and specs | website=Car and Driver | date=May 14, 2019 | url=https://www.caranddriver.com/tesla/model-s-2019 | access-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-date=August 13, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240813121113/https://www.caranddriver.com/tesla/model-s-2019 | url-status=live }}

File:Tesla Model S (2023) Motorworld Munich 1X7A0025.jpg

In favor of a more streamlined lineup, in the middle of 2019, the previous 75D, 100D, and P100D models were replaced with the Standard Range, Long Range, and Performance models, respectively; the foremost model was discontinued later that year.{{cite web | last=Porter | first=Jon | title=Tesla drops Standard Range versions of Model S and X | website=The Verge | date=July 16, 2019 | url=https://www.theverge.com/2019/7/16/20696053/tesla-model-s-3-x-price-changes-standard-range-discontinued-long-range-performance | access-date=August 14, 2024 | archive-date=August 14, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240814060849/https://www.theverge.com/2019/7/16/20696053/tesla-model-s-3-x-price-changes-standard-range-discontinued-long-range-performance | url-status=live }} The Performance and Long Range variants feature a permanent magnet synchronous reluctance motor—initially used in the Model 3—as the front motor, while the rear motor remains an AC induction unit.{{cite web | last=Yekikian | first=Nick | title=What is the Tesla Raven powertrain? | website=Motor Trend | date=February 19, 2020 | url=https://www.motortrend.com/news/tesla-raven-powertrain | access-date=May 11, 2025 | archive-date=April 14, 2025 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250414035733/https://www.motortrend.com/news/tesla-raven-powertrain/ | url-status=live }}

The Model S Long Range, equipped with a 100{{nbsp}}kWh battery, has dual motors that generate a total output of {{convert|469|hp|kW|order=flip}} and {{convert|730|Nm|sp=us|lbft}}, giving the Long Range a range of {{convert|375|mi}}.{{cite web | title=New Tesla Model S Long Range 2019 review | website=Auto Express | date=August 9, 2019 | url=https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/tesla/model-s/107620/new-tesla-model-s-long-range-2019-review | access-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815032045/https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/tesla/model-s/107620/new-tesla-model-s-long-range-2019-review | url-status=live }}{{cite web | title=Tesla Model S vs Jaguar I-Pace | website=Auto Express | date=October 5, 2019 | url=https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/tesla/model-s/108090/tesla-model-s-vs-jaguar-i-pace | access-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820060255/https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/tesla/model-s/108090/tesla-model-s-vs-jaguar-i-pace | url-status=live }} The Performance model's two motors produce a combined output of {{convert|754|hp|kW|order=flip}} and {{convert|687|lbft|Nm|sp=us|order=flip}}; it also has a 100{{nbsp}}kWh battery and a range of {{convert|365|mi}}.{{cite web | title=Tesla Model S Performance review: 0–60 in 2.4s, but what else? | first=Ollie | last=Kew | website=Top Gear | publisher=BBC | date=October 4, 2019 | url=https://www.topgear.com/car-reviews/tesla/performance-ludicrous-100kwh-dual-motor-5dr-auto/first-drive | access-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815051405/https://www.topgear.com/car-reviews/tesla/performance-ludicrous-100kwh-dual-motor-5dr-auto/first-drive | url-status=live }} For 2020, the Long Range model was replaced with the Long Range Plus.{{cite web | last=Dorian | first=Drew | title=2020 Tesla Model S review, pricing, and specs | website=Car and Driver | date=August 19, 2019 | url=https://www.caranddriver.com/tesla/model-s-2020 | access-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815100007/https://www.caranddriver.com/tesla/model-s-2020 | url-status=live }} Its dual motors deliver a combined output of {{convert|417|hp|kW|order=flip}} and {{convert|485|lbft|Nm|sp=us|order=flip}}. It has a range of {{convert|400|mi}}.{{refn|{{cite web | title=Compare 2020 Tesla Model S vs. 2021 Tesla Model S | website=U.S. News & World Report | url=https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/compare?trims=14300-413405_14580-418637 | access-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820053628/https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/compare?trims=14300-413405_14580-418637 | url-status=live }}{{cite web | title=2021 Tesla Model S specifications | website=Motor Trend | date=June 20, 2021 | url=https://www.motortrend.com/cars/tesla/model-s/2021/specs/?trimSlug=long-range-plus-hatchback | access-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815102951/https://www.motortrend.com/cars/tesla/model-s/2021/specs/?trimSlug=long-range-plus-hatchback | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Brady | first=Duncan | title=2020 Tesla Model S prices, reviews, and photos | website=Motor Trend | date=June 20, 2020 | url=https://www.motortrend.com/cars/tesla/model-s/2020/ | access-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815102953/https://www.motortrend.com/cars/tesla/model-s/2020/ | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Brady | first=Duncan | title=2021 Tesla Model S prices, reviews, and photos | website=Motor Trend | date=November 20, 2020 | url=https://www.motortrend.com/cars/tesla/model-s/2021/ | access-date=August 15, 2024}}}}

File:Tesla Model S Plaid Autofrühling Ulm IMG 9321 (cropped).jpg

In 2021, Tesla launched a significant update to the Model S, known internally as the "Palladium" project, which involved an overhaul of most of its components and spawned the high-performance Plaid. The revised Model S was revealed in January 2021.{{cite web | last=Brain | first=Eric | title=Tesla reportedly working on secret 'Palladium' update for Model S and Model X | website=Hypebeast | date=July 22, 2020 | url=https://hypebeast.com/2020/7/tesla-palladium-model-s-model-x-updates-plaid-mode-power-battery-styling-performance | access-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815111606/https://hypebeast.com/2020/7/tesla-palladium-model-s-model-x-updates-plaid-mode-power-battery-styling-performance | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=O'Kane | first=Sean | title=Tesla unveils redesigned Model S with new interior and 520-mile range option | website=The Verge | date=January 27, 2021 | url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/1/27/22252832/tesla-model-s-redesign-plaid-mile-range-interior-refresh | access-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815112258/https://www.theverge.com/2021/1/27/22252832/tesla-model-s-redesign-plaid-mile-range-interior-refresh | url-status=live }}{{cite web | title=New Tesla Model S 2021 facelift brings new-look cabin and power boost | website=Auto Express | first=Luke | last=Wilkinson | date=January 28, 2021 | url=https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/tesla/model-s/107907/new-tesla-model-s-2021-facelift-brings-new-look-cabin-and-power-boost | access-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815112259/https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/tesla/model-s/107907/new-tesla-model-s-2021-facelift-brings-new-look-cabin-and-power-boost | url-status=live }} At its debut, the updated Model S had the lowest drag coefficient of any automobile, with a value of {{Cd|0.208}}.{{cite web | title=The Tesla Model S Plaid is a 200mph, 1,020bhp electric car | website=Top Gear | publisher=BBC | date=June 11, 2021 | url=https://www.topgear.com/car-news/electric/tesla-model-s-plaid-200mph-1020bhp-electric-car | access-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815131553/https://www.topgear.com/car-news/electric/tesla-model-s-plaid-200mph-1020bhp-electric-car | url-status=live }}{{cite web | title=These are the 12 most aerodynamically efficient EVs on sale today | website=Top Gear | first=Peter | last=Rawlins | publisher=BBC | date=July 25, 2024 | url=https://www.topgear.com/car-news/electric/these-are-12-most-aerodynamically-efficient-evs-sale-today | access-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815131554/https://www.topgear.com/car-news/electric/these-are-12-most-aerodynamically-efficient-evs-sale-today | url-status=live }} The updated Long Range delivers {{convert|670|hp|kW|order=flip}} and achieves a range of {{convert|405|mi}}.{{cite web | title=2023 Tesla Model S performance, HP & engine options | website=U.S. News & World Report | url=https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/tesla/model-s/2023/performance | access-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820053444/https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/tesla/model-s/2023/performance | url-status=live }} The Plaid, which features a 95{{nbsp}}kWh battery,{{sfn|Kumar|Devanshu|Dwivedi|2024|p=26}}{{cite journal | last1=Annamalai | first1=M.C. | last2=Amutha prabha | first2=N. | title=A comprehensive review on isolated and non-isolated converter configuration and fast charging technology: For battery and plug in hybrid electric vehicle | journal=Heliyon | publisher=Elsevier BV | volume=9 | issue=8 | year=2023 | issn=2405-8440 | doi=10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e18808 | pmid=37636357 |pmc=10447943| page=e18808| doi-access=free | bibcode=2023Heliy...918808A }} has—in contrast to all other models—three permanent magnet synchronous motors, as well as an all-wheel drive layout.{{cite web | last=Dorian | first=Drew | title=2024 Tesla Model S review, pricing, and specs | website=Car and Driver | date=December 7, 2023 | url=https://www.caranddriver.com/tesla/model-s-2024 | access-date=May 11, 2025}} The trio produce a total output of {{convert|1020|hp|kW|order=flip}} and {{convert|1050|Nm|sp=us|lbft}}, providing the car with a 0 to {{convert|60|mph|abbr=on}} acceleration of 1.98 seconds and a maximum speed of {{convert|200|mph|abbr=on}}, with a range of {{convert|390|mi}}.{{cite web | last=Gitlin | first=Jonathan M. | title=Tesla takes aim at upstarts with 390-mile range, 200 mph Model S Plaid | website=Ars Technica | date=June 11, 2021 | url=https://arstechnica.com/cars/2021/06/tesla-takes-aim-at-upstarts-with-390-mile-range-200-mph-model-s-plaid/ | access-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815132851/https://arstechnica.com/cars/2021/06/tesla-takes-aim-at-upstarts-with-390-mile-range-200-mph-model-s-plaid/ | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Seabaugh | first=Christian | title=2022 Tesla Model S Plaid first test: 0–60 MPH in 1.98 seconds | website=Motor Trend | date=June 17, 2021 | url=https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2022-tesla-model-s-plaid-first-test-review/ | access-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-date=July 16, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240716132903/https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2022-tesla-model-s-plaid-first-test-review/ | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Dodds | first=Io | title=Tesla launches Model S Plaid that hits 60 mph in two seconds | website=The Daily Telegraph | url-access=subscription | date=June 11, 2021 | url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/2021/06/11/tesla-launches-new-model-s-plaid-1000-horsepower-snap-acceleration/ | access-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240815133218/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/2021/06/11/tesla-launches-new-model-s-plaid-1000-horsepower-snap-acceleration/ | url-status=live }} In 2023, Tesla reintroduced the Standard Range model, which has a range of {{convert|370|mi}}.{{cite web | last=Porter | first=Jon | title=Tesla reintroduces more affordable 'Standard Range' versions of Model S and X | website=The Verge | date=August 15, 2023 | url=https://www.theverge.com/2023/8/15/23832644/tesla-standard-range-model-x-s-lower-range-price-power-acceleration | access-date=August 15, 2024 | archive-date=August 29, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829235104/https://www.theverge.com/2023/8/15/23832644/tesla-standard-range-model-x-s-lower-range-price-power-acceleration | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Dorian | first=Drew | title=2023 Tesla Model S review, pricing, and specs | website=Car and Driver | date=March 6, 2023 | url=https://www.caranddriver.com/tesla/model-s-2023 | access-date=August 16, 2024 | archive-date=August 16, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240816041156/https://www.caranddriver.com/tesla/model-s-2023 | url-status=live }}

File:Tesla Model S digital panels.jpg

The instrument panel is positioned directly before the driver and features a 12.3-inch{{nbsp}}(310{{nbsp}}mm) liquid crystal display electronic instrument cluster.{{cite web | last=Cunningham | first=Wayne | title=Nvidia touts its place in the Tesla Model S | website=CNET | date=June 21, 2012 | url=https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/nvidia-touts-its-place-in-the-tesla-model-s/ | access-date=August 17, 2024 | archive-date=August 17, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240817124821/https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/nvidia-touts-its-place-in-the-tesla-model-s/ | url-status=live }} Initially, the infotainment control touchscreen featured a 17-inch{{nbsp}}(430{{nbsp}}mm) multi-touch display{{cite web | last=Simpson | first=Campbell | title=Tesla Motors Model S: Australian review | website=Gizmodo | date=December 19, 2014 | url=https://gizmodo.com.au/2014/12/tesla-motors-model-s-australian-review/ | access-date=August 17, 2024 | archive-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820053626/https://gizmodo.com.au/2014/12/tesla-motors-model-s-australian-review/ | url-status=live }} divided into four sections. The top section shows status icons and offers quick access to features like charging, HomeLink, Driver Profiles, vehicle information, and Bluetooth. Below that, the second section provides access to various apps, such as Media, Navigation, Energy, Web, Camera, and Phone. The central viewing area displays two active apps, split into upper and lower areas, with most apps expandable to fill the entire screen. The bottom section contains controls and settings for the vehicle, including doors, locks, lights, temperature settings, and a secondary volume control.{{cite web | page=8 |title= Model S: A quick guide for owners | publisher=Tesla, Inc. | url=https://www.tesla.com/sites/default/files/blog_attachments/ms_owners_guide.pdf | access-date=August 17, 2024}}

Originally, the Model S's touchscreen was powered by a Nvidia Tegra 3 3D Visual Computing Module (VCM),{{cite web | last=Lawler | first=Richard | title=NHTSA wants Tesla to recall 158,000 Tegra 3-equipped vehicles | website=Engadget | date=January 14, 2021 | url=https://www.engadget.com/tesla-nhtsa-model-x-model-s-recall-040826354.html | access-date=August 17, 2024 | archive-date=August 17, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240817133059/https://www.engadget.com/tesla-nhtsa-model-x-model-s-recall-040826354.html | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Geuss | first=Megan | title=Nvidia inside: Hands on with Audi, Lamborghini, and Tesla | website=Ars Technica | date=May 18, 2014 | url=https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2014/05/nvidia-inside-hands-on-with-audi-lamborghini-and-tesla/ | access-date=August 17, 2024 | archive-date=March 15, 2018 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180315200138/https://arstechnica.com/gadgets/2014/05/nvidia-inside-hands-on-with-audi-lamborghini-and-tesla/ | url-status=live }} with a separate Nvidia Tegra 2 VCM handling the instrument cluster.{{cite web | last=Hull | first=Dana | title=Future Tesla Model S features: 'Sleep' mode and a 'sensor suite' of safety features for the driver | website=The Mercury News | date=May 14, 2013 | url=https://www.mercurynews.com/2013/05/14/future-tesla-model-s-features-sleep-mode-and-a-sensor-suite-of-safety-features-for-the-driver/ | access-date=August 17, 2024 | archive-date=August 17, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240817133058/https://www.mercurynews.com/2013/05/14/future-tesla-model-s-features-sleep-mode-and-a-sensor-suite-of-safety-features-for-the-driver/ | url-status=live }} Around 2018, Tesla upgraded these two Tegra System-on-a-Chip (SoC) units to a single Intel Atom–based SoC, which powered both the main touchscreen display and the instrument cluster.{{cite web | last=Kolodny | first=Lora | author-link=Lora Kolodny |title=Tesla expands warranty to cover defective main computers in some Model S and X vehicles | website=CNBC | date=November 10, 2020 | url=https://www.cnbc.com/2020/11/09/tesla-will-refund-owners-who-paid-to-fix-main-computers-out-of-pocket.html | access-date=August 17, 2024 | archive-date=August 17, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240817133617/https://www.cnbc.com/2020/11/09/tesla-will-refund-owners-who-paid-to-fix-main-computers-out-of-pocket.html | url-status=live }} With the Palladium refresh, Tesla further updated the system, switching to a horizontal touchscreen orientation and an AMD Ryzen-based SoC. The touchscreen includes features like driver-side climate control, My App, the app launcher, recent apps, passenger-side climate control, and volume control.{{NoteTag|Driver-side and passenger-side climate control may vary based on market.}} Features, such as lock and unlock, trunk, glove box, and mirrors, could be controlled from the touchscreen.{{cite web | last=Lau | first=Alan | title=Tesla Model S Plaid infotainment system review: A laptop on wheels | website=Motor Trend | date=July 8, 2021 | url=https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/tesla-model-s-plaid-infotainment-system-review-pros-cons/ | access-date=September 10, 2024}} Also for the 2021 refresh, Tesla implemented a "yoke" steering wheel.{{cite web | last=Bergan | first=Brad | title=Tesla debuts Model S Plaid interior with new touchscreen and more | website=Interesting Engineering | date=January 27, 2021 | url=https://interestingengineering.com/culture/tesla-debuts-model-s-plaid-interior | access-date=August 17, 2024 | archive-date=August 17, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240817135027/https://interestingengineering.com/culture/tesla-debuts-model-s-plaid-interior | url-status=live }}{{NoteTag|A yoke steering wheel is a steering control that is shaped like a joystick or U-shape with two hand grips and a hub.{{cite web | last=Seabaugh | first=Christian | title=The 2022 Tesla Model S Plaid's Steering Yoke: Pros and Cons Review | website=Motor Trend | date=June 29, 2021 | url=https://www.motortrend.com/reviews/2022-tesla-model-s-plaid-steering-yoke-wheel-review/ | access-date=December 18, 2024}}{{cite web | last=Dron | first=Will | title=Genesis boss: Aircraft-style steering yokes might be cool but safety must rule | website=The Sunday Times | date=March 28, 2023 | url=https://www.driving.co.uk/news/genesis-boss-aircraft-style-steering-yokes-might-be-cool-but-safety-must-rule/ | access-date=December 18, 2024 | archive-date=December 20, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241220051356/https://www.driving.co.uk/news/genesis-boss-aircraft-style-steering-yokes-might-be-cool-but-safety-must-rule/ | url-status=live }}}}

In 2014, Tesla introduced Autopilot, an advanced driver-assistance system developed by the automaker that amounts to partial vehicle automation.{{cite web | last=LeBeau | first=Phil | title=Tesla rolls out autopilot technology | website=CNBC | date=October 14, 2015 | url=https://www.cnbc.com/2015/10/14/tesla-rolls-out-autopilot-technology.html | access-date=September 11, 2024 | archive-date=September 13, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240913131302/https://www.cnbc.com/2015/10/14/tesla-rolls-out-autopilot-technology.html | url-status=live }}{{cite news|title=Tesla recalls millions of vehicles|date=December 14, 2023|newspaper=The Australian}} Every Model S produced from September 2014 onward included the Autopilot hardware,{{cite web | last=Sherman | first=Don | title=We test Tesla's new Autopilot feature | website=Car and Driver | date=October 14, 2015 | url=https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a15352468/elon-take-the-wheel-we-test-teslas-new-autopilot-feature/ | access-date=September 10, 2024}} and it was officially released in October 2015 as a software update.{{cite web | last=Hawkins | first=Andrew J. | title=How Tesla changed the auto industry forever | website=The Verge | date=July 28, 2017 | url=https://www.theverge.com/2017/7/28/16059954/tesla-model-3-2017-auto-industry-influence-elon-musk | access-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-date=February 29, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240229190714/https://www.theverge.com/2017/7/28/16059954/tesla-model-3-2017-auto-industry-influence-elon-musk | url-status=live }}{{cite web | title=Tesla self-drive mode filmed 'endangering passengers' | website=BBC News | date=October 22, 2015 | url=https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-34603364 | access-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240818073341/https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-34603364 | url-status=live }} Autopilot uses cameras, radar and ultrasound to detect road signs, lane markings, obstacles, pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists, traffic lights, and other vehicles. It also includes adaptive cruise control, lane centering, auto lane changing, auto parking and other semi-autonomous driving and parking capabilities.{{cite web | last=Lawler | first=Richard | title=Riding shotgun in Tesla's fastest car ever | website=Engadget | date=October 10, 2014 | url=https://www.engadget.com/2014-10-09-tesla-d-awd-driver-assist.html | access-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-date=February 23, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240223132859/https://www.engadget.com/2014-10-09-tesla-d-awd-driver-assist.html | url-status=live }}{{cite news|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/tesla-aims-to-leapfrog-rivals-1412980889|title=Tesla aims to leapfrog rivals|first=Joseph B.|last=White|date=October 10, 2014|newspaper=The Wall Street Journal|url-access=subscription|access-date=August 18, 2024|archive-date=August 20, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820060156/https://www.wsj.com/articles/tesla-aims-to-leapfrog-rivals-1412980889|url-status=live}} The Model S's operating systems are partly built using open-source software (OSS), which is publicly available. Tesla uses OSS like Linux, the GNU toolchain, Buildroot, and community projects like Ubuntu.{{cite web | last1=McElligott | first1=Suzanne | last2=Shrestha | first2=Rusha | last3=McHugh | first3=Brian | title=What OS does Tesla use? | website=US News & World Report | date=March 27, 2023 | url=https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/features/what-os-does-tesla-use | access-date=September 23, 2024}} From 2021, Tesla began using a system known as "Tesla Vision", which relies solely on cameras, replacing the previous radar-based sensors.{{cite web | last=Korosec | first=Kirsten | title=Tesla is no longer using radar sensors in Model 3 and Model Y vehicles built in North America | website=TechCrunch | date=May 25, 2021 | url=https://techcrunch.com/2021/05/25/tesla-is-no-longer-using-radar-sensors-in-model-3-and-model-y-vehicles-built-in-north-america/ | access-date=August 26, 2024 | archive-date=August 26, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240826030223/https://techcrunch.com/2021/05/25/tesla-is-no-longer-using-radar-sensors-in-model-3-and-model-y-vehicles-built-in-north-america/ | url-status=live }} In 2023, Tesla discontinued the ultrasonic system as part of its shift towards Tesla Vision.{{cite web | last=Porter | first=Jon | title=Tesla ditches ultrasonic sensors from new cars as it bets on camera-only driver assistance | website=The Verge | date=October 5, 2022 | url=https://www.theverge.com/2022/10/5/23388770/tesla-ultrasonic-sensors-uss-model-3-y-s-x-radar | access-date=August 26, 2024 | archive-date=August 29, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829235230/https://www.theverge.com/2022/10/5/23388770/tesla-ultrasonic-sensors-uss-model-3-y-s-x-radar | url-status=live }}

The Autopilot system has been the subject of criticism. Following a crash in Florida, the National Transportation Safety Board found that the driver's usage of the system "indicated an over-reliance on the automation and a lack of understanding of the system limitations".{{cite web | title=Tesla Autopilot: Name deceptive, claim groups | website=BBC Home | date=May 23, 2018 | url=https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-44225059 | access-date=August 26, 2024 | archive-date=August 9, 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230809105846/https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-44225059 | url-status=live }} Tesla has faced accusations of misleading advertising, with critics alleging that the company led consumers to believe the vehicles were fully autonomous. Tesla has defended itself by arguing that the state's prolonged lack of objection to the Autopilot branding implied approval of its advertising practices.{{cite magazine | last=Marshall | first=Aarian | title=Tesla Autopilot was uniquely risky—and may still be | magazine=WIRED | date=April 26, 2024 | url=https://www.wired.com/story/tesla-autopilot-risky-deaths-crashes-nhtsa-investigation/ | access-date=August 26, 2024 | archive-date=August 29, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829235131/https://www.wired.com/story/tesla-autopilot-risky-deaths-crashes-nhtsa-investigation/ | url-status=live }}{{NoteTag|For a more detailed overview of the criticism of Autopilot, see Tesla Autopilot § Criticism.}} In a 2019 survey by Bloomberg News, hundreds of Tesla owners reported experiencing dangerous behaviors with Autopilot, including phantom braking, lane departures, and failure to stop for road hazards.{{Cite news|title=Thousands of Tesla owners share their close calls with Autopilot|url=https://www.bloomberg.com/graphics/2019-tesla-model-3-survey/autopilot.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200104203129/https://www.bloomberg.com/graphics/2019-tesla-model-3-survey/autopilot.html|archive-date=January 4, 2020|access-date=May 2, 2020|newspaper=Bloomberg News| last1=R | first1=Tom | last2=Halford | first2=Dean | last3=Sam | first3=Cedric | last4=Best | first4=Ryan }} Users also noted issues like sudden software crashes, unexpected shutdowns, collisions with off-ramp barriers, radar failures, abrupt swerving, tailgating, and inconsistent speed changes.{{Cite web|last=Claburn|first=Thomas|date=November 14, 2018|title=Oi, Elon: You Musk sort out your Autopilot! Tesla loyalists tell of code crashes, near-misses|url=https://www.theregister.co.uk/2018/11/14/tesla_customer_complaints/|access-date=May 2, 2020|website=The Register|language=en|archive-date=August 29, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829235107/https://www.theregister.com/2018/11/14/tesla_customer_complaints/|url-status=live}}

File:Model S charging at a Tesla Supercharger station in Germany crooped.jpg

{{See also|Tesla Supercharger}}

Tesla has devised numerous ways to charge the Model S: a 240-volt home wall connector, which provides up to {{Convert|44|mi|km}} of range per hour of charging; and a mobile connector, intended for use away from home, which offers up to {{Convert|30|mi|km}} of range per hour.{{Cite news |last=Loveday |first=Steven |date=August 24, 2023 |title=How Long Does It Take To Charge a Tesla? |url=https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/advice/how-long-to-charge-a-tesla |access-date=May 10, 2025 |work=U.S. News & World Report}} Models prior to 2016 could be configured with two onboard chargers,{{Cite web |last=Gaton |first=Bryce |date=September 2024 |title=EV Fact Sheet Tesla Model S |url=https://aeva.asn.au/files/226/ |access-date=May 10, 2023 |publisher=Australian Electric Vehicle Association |archive-date=May 29, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230529154415/https://www.aeva.asn.au/files/226/ |url-status=live }} which provide up to {{Convert|62|mi|km}} of range per hour.{{Cite news |last=Mike |first=McGrath |date=2013-02-22 |title=2013 Tesla Model S: What's It Like to Live With? {{!}} Edmunds |url=https://www.edmunds.com/tesla/model-s/2013/long-term-road-test |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250317210518/https://www.edmunds.com/tesla/model-s/2013/long-term-road-test/ |archive-date=March 17, 2025 |access-date=2025-05-10 |publisher=Edmunds |language=en |url-status=live }} Tesla partnered with businesses to install Tesla Wall Connectors to provide a public charging network called Tesla Destination.{{cite web | last=Lewis | first=William Irvin | title=What is Tesla Destination charging? Powering up while standing still | website=Motor Trend | date=November 24, 2023 | url=https://www.motortrend.com/features/what-is-tesla-destination-charging/ | access-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240818042350/https://www.motortrend.com/features/what-is-tesla-destination-charging/ | url-status=live }} The units are provided to the businesses by Tesla for free or at a cheap price.{{cite journal | last1=Qian | first1=Lixian | last2=Zhang | first2=Cheng | title=Complementary or congruent? The effect of hosting Tesla charging stations on hotels' revenue | journal=Journal of Travel Research | volume=62 | issue=3 | date=2023 | issn=0047-2875 | doi=10.1177/00472875221093017 | pages=663–684}} The business is responsible for the cost of electricity. Some businesses limit them to customers, employees, or residents only.{{cite web | last=Field | first=Kyle | title=Tesla makes full-court press with Destination Charging | website=CleanTechnica | date=April 29, 2016 | url=https://cleantechnica.com/2016/04/29/tesla-makes-full-court-press-destination-charging/ | access-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820053631/https://cleantechnica.com/2016/04/29/tesla-makes-full-court-press-destination-charging/ | url-status=live }} In late 2012, Tesla began operating a network of 480-volt charging stations, dubbed Superchargers.{{cite web | last=Motavalli | first=Jim | title=Tesla begins East Coast fast-charging corridor | website=The New York Times | date=December 22, 2012 | url=https://archive.nytimes.com/wheels.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/12/21/tesla-begins-east-cost-fast-charging-corridor/ | access-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-date=March 24, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240324073450/https://archive.nytimes.com/wheels.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/12/21/tesla-begins-east-cost-fast-charging-corridor/ | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Trop | first=Jaclyn | title=Tesla extends peak charging hours at California Superchargers amid EV sales boom | publisher=Yahoo! Finance | date=April 13, 2022 | url=https://finance.yahoo.com/news/tesla-extends-peak-charging-hours-152242127.html | access-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240818061904/https://finance.yahoo.com/news/tesla-extends-peak-charging-hours-152242127.html | url-status=live }}

Tesla initially planned for the Model S to allow fast battery swapping.{{cite web | last=Roberson | first=William | title=It works for scooters: Can battery swapping work for electric cars? | website=Forbes Australia | date=January 30, 2024 | url=https://www.forbes.com.au/life/electric/battery-swapping-worked-for-scooters-will-it-work-for-electric-cars/ | access-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240818083148/https://www.forbes.com.au/life/electric/battery-swapping-worked-for-scooters-will-it-work-for-electric-cars/ | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Cunningham | first=Wayne | title=Tesla battery swap a dead end | website=CNET | date=June 21, 2013 | url=https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/tesla-battery-swap-a-dead-end/ | access-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820053636/https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/tesla-battery-swap-a-dead-end/ | url-status=live }} In 2013, the company demonstrated a battery-swap operation that took about ninety seconds—roughly half the time needed to refill a gas tank.{{cite web | last=Muller | first=Joann | title=Tesla and Nissan: EV battery swap replaces anxiety with peace of mind | website=Forbes | date=June 21, 2013 | url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/joannmuller/2013/06/21/tesla-and-nissan-ev-battery-swap-replaces-anxiety-with-peace-of-mind/ | access-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240818093541/https://www.forbes.com/sites/joannmuller/2013/06/21/tesla-and-nissan-ev-battery-swap-replaces-anxiety-with-peace-of-mind/ | url-status=live }}{{cite web | title=Tesla system will swap a Model S battery in 90 seconds | website=Autoweek | date=June 20, 2013 | url=https://www.autoweek.com/news/a1925966/tesla-system-will-swap-model-s-battery-90-seconds/ | access-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240818084310/https://www.autoweek.com/news/a1925966/tesla-system-will-swap-model-s-battery-90-seconds/ | url-status=live }}{{cite magazine | last=Aamoth | first=Doug | title=Tesla shows off 90-second battery swap for its electric cars | magazine=Time | date=June 21, 2013 | url=https://techland.time.com/2013/06/21/tesla-shows-off-90-second-battery-swap-for-its-electric-cars/ | access-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240818084340/https://techland.time.com/2013/06/21/tesla-shows-off-90-second-battery-swap-for-its-electric-cars/ | url-status=live }} While Tesla initially planned to make battery swapping widely available, they reportedly abandoned the idea due to a perceived lack of customer interest.{{cite web | last=Sorokanich | first=Bob | title=Musk: Tesla "unlikely" to pursue battery swapping stations | website=Road & Track | date=June 10, 2015 | url=https://www.roadandtrack.com/new-cars/car-technology/news/a25872/elon-musk-tesla-battery-swap/ | access-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-date=May 1, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240501020602/https://www.roadandtrack.com/new-cars/car-technology/news/a25872/elon-musk-tesla-battery-swap/ | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Valdes-Dapena | first=Peter | title=Tesla failed at battery swapping but Stellantis says it may have the secret | publisher=CNN | date=December 8, 2023 | url=https://edition.cnn.com/2023/12/08/business/tesla-battery-swapping-stellantis/index.html | access-date=August 26, 2024 | archive-date=September 13, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240913131301/https://edition.cnn.com/2023/12/08/business/tesla-battery-swapping-stellantis/index.html | url-status=live }} Jeremy Michalek, a mechanical engineering professor, suggested that the high cost, bulkiness, and resource demands of batteries made the creation of extensive networks of swappable packs—requiring storage, charging, and maintenance—economically and environmentally impractical.{{cite web | title=How is this a good idea?: EV battery swapping | first=Lawerence | last=Ulrich | website=IEEE Spectrum | date=May 13, 2021 | url=https://spectrum.ieee.org/ev-battery-swapping-how-is-this-a-good-idea | access-date=August 26, 2024 | archive-date=August 26, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240826105312/https://spectrum.ieee.org/ev-battery-swapping-how-is-this-a-good-idea | url-status=live }} Critics have accused Tesla of exploiting California's zero-emission vehicle credit system by introducing the battery-swap program without ever making it accessible to the public.{{cite web | last=Fleming | first=Charles | title=Tesla battery swap at Harris Ranch? Not quite | website=Los Angeles Times | date=March 10, 2015 | url=https://www.latimes.com/business/autos/la-fi-hy-tesla-battery-swap-harris-ranch-20150310-story.html | access-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-date=June 26, 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230626224705/https://www.latimes.com/business/autos/la-fi-hy-tesla-battery-swap-harris-ranch-20150310-story.html | url-status=live }} In 2020, Tesla announced plans to integrate the batteries into the vehicle's body to enhance strength and reduce weight and cost.{{cite web | last=Etherington | first=Darrell | title=Future Teslas will have batteries that double as structure, making them extra stiff while improving efficiency, safety and cost | website=TechCrunch | date=September 22, 2020 | url=https://techcrunch.com/2020/09/22/future-teslas-will-have-batteries-that-double-as-structure-making-them-extra-stiff-while-improving-efficiency-safety-and-cost/ | access-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-date=August 3, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240803042425/https://techcrunch.com/2020/09/22/future-teslas-will-have-batteries-that-double-as-structure-making-them-extra-stiff-while-improving-efficiency-safety-and-cost/ | url-status=live }}

File:Tesla Gigafactory 1 - December 2019.jpg is able to turn old batteries into new ones.]]

A 2015 study by the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) concluded that in U.S. regions where the Model S is popular, its 68{{nbsp}}percent higher manufacturing emissions are offset within a few years of average driving.{{cite web |url=http://www.ucsusa.org/sites/default/files/attach/2015/11/Cleaner-Cars-from-Cradle-to-Grave-full-report.pdf |title=Cleaner cars from cradle to grave: How electric cars beat gasoline cars on lifetime global warming emissions |publisher=Union of Concerned Scientists |last1=Nealer |first1=Rachael |last2=Reichmuth |first2=David |page=68|last3=Anair |first3=Don |date=November 2015 |access-date=November 22, 2014 |archive-date=November 16, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151116040046/http://www.ucsusa.org/sites/default/files/attach/2015/11/Cleaner-Cars-from-Cradle-to-Grave-full-report.pdf |url-status=live }} However, the UCS report assumes that electric materials are recycled at rates similar to other cars and excludes the issue of battery disposal due to limited data on recycling practices and future intentions at the time. Over their lifecycle, electric vehicles—like the Model S—emit about half as much CO₂ as comparable fossil fuel cars.{{cite web | title=Outlook for emissions reductions | publisher=International Energy Agency | date=January 18, 2024 | url=https://www.iea.org/reports/global-ev-outlook-2024/outlook-for-emissions-reductions | access-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-date=May 12, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240512153954/https://www.iea.org/reports/global-ev-outlook-2024/outlook-for-emissions-reductions | url-status=live }} The lithium-ion batteries within the Model S contain nickel and small amounts of cobalt,{{cite web | title=Tesla targets cobalt-free batteries in all models | website=BloombergNEF | date=June 19, 2020 | url=https://about.bnef.com/blog/tesla-targets-cobalt-free-batteries-in-all-models/ | access-date=September 25, 2024}} which have a high environmental impact due to resource depletion, ecological toxicity, and extraction processes.{{cite web |first1=Shanika |last1=Amarakoon |page=2|first2=Jay |last2=Smith |first3=Brian |last3=Segal |title=Application of life cycle assessment to nanoscale technology: Lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles |url=https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2014-01/documents/lithium_batteries_lca.pdf |publisher=Environmental Protection Agency |access-date=June 17, 2017 |date=April 24, 2013 |archive-date=August 6, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170806124531/https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2014-01/documents/lithium_batteries_lca.pdf |url-status=live }}

In 2021, Tesla wrote in its impact report that it recycles all returned battery packs. It stated that Gigafactory Nevada can recycle up to 92{{nbsp}}percent of the elements from old batteries, creating a "closed loop" system where old batteries are turned into new ones. In 2020, the company recycled significant amounts of metals: 1,300{{nbsp}}tons of nickel, 400{{nbsp}}tons of copper, and 80{{nbsp}}tons of cobalt.{{cite web | last=Young | first=Chris | title=Tesla says it can now recycle 92% of battery cell materials | website=Interesting Engineering | date=August 10, 2021 | url=https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/tesla-says-it-can-now-recycle-92-of-battery-cell-materials | access-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820053638/https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/tesla-says-it-can-now-recycle-92-of-battery-cell-materials | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Carleton | first=Audrey | title=When Tesla says it recycles 100% of its batteries, what does that mean? | website=Vice | date=August 16, 2021 | url=https://www.vice.com/en/article/when-tesla-says-it-recycles-100-of-its-batteries-what-does-that-mean/ | access-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240818155319/https://www.vice.com/en/article/when-tesla-says-it-recycles-100-of-its-batteries-what-does-that-mean/ | url-status=live }} Tesla's report states that most of its batteries are recycled in some form; according to Vice, it does not specify that 92{{nbsp}}percent of each individual battery is fully recycled. The company has articulated an ultimate goal of achieving "high recovery rates, low costs, and low environmental impact" through its recycling program, though it does not provide details on its progress toward this. A 2021 scientific study showed that recycling the Tesla Model S battery pack is profitable due to its low disassembly costs and high revenues from cobalt recovery.{{cite journal | last1=Lander | first1=Laura | last2=Cleaver | first2=Tom | last3=Rajaeifar | first3=Mohammad Ali | last4=Nguyen-Tien | first4=Viet | last5=Elliott | first5=Robert J.R. | last6=Heidrich | first6=Oliver | last7=Kendrick | first7=Emma | last8=Edge | first8=Jacqueline Sophie | last9=Offer | first9=Gregory | title=Financial viability of electric vehicle lithium-ion battery recycling | journal=iScience | volume=24 | issue=7 | date=2021 | pmid=34308293 | pmc=8283134 | doi=10.1016/j.isci.2021.102787 | page=102787| bibcode=2021iSci...24j2787L }} The materials scientist Dana Thompson from the University of Leicester cautions that the recycling of batteries may pose significant hazards. According to Thompson, if a Tesla cell is punctured too deeply or at an inappropriate location, it risks short-circuiting, potentially leading to combustion and the release of toxic fumes.{{cite news|url=https://www.science.org/content/article/millions-electric-cars-are-coming-what-happens-all-dead-batteries|title=With millions of electric vehicles set to hit the road, scientists are seeking better battery recycling methods|first=Ian|last=Morse|journal=Science|date=May 20, 2021|access-date=August 29, 2024|archive-date=July 18, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240718181712/https://www.science.org/content/article/millions-electric-cars-are-coming-what-happens-all-dead-batteries|url-status=live}}

{{multiple image

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| image1 = Tesla Model S (2023) Motorworld Munich 1X7A0025.jpg

| alt1 = A front three-quarters view of a white Tesla Model S

| image2 = Tesla Model 3 (2023) IMG 9488 (cropped).jpg

| alt2 = A front three-quarters view of a white 2023 facelifted Tesla Model 3

| image3 = 2017 Tesla Model X 100D in Catalina White, Front Left, 04-30-2023.jpg

| alt3 = A front three-quarters view of a white Tesla Model X

| image4 = Tesla Model Y IMG 9499.jpg

| alt4 = A front three-quarters view of a white Tesla Model Y

| footer = The vehicles that form the "S3XY" acronym: the Model S; the Model 3; the Model X; and the Model Y

}}

The Model S is the company's second vehicle and, {{As of|2025|lc=y}}, its longest-produced model.{{cite web | last=Levin | first=Tim | title=Here's how much each model will set you back in 2022 | website=Yahoo! Tech | date=June 16, 2022 | url=https://www.yahoo.com/tech/teslas-keep-getting-more-expensive-194515416.html | access-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240818194018/https://www.yahoo.com/tech/teslas-keep-getting-more-expensive-194515416.html | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Chima | first=Chikodi | title=First look at the new Tesla Model S Beta electric car | work=Reuters | date=November 10, 2011 | url=https://www.reuters.com/article/business/environment/first-look-at-the-new-tesla-model-s-beta-electric-car-idUS1491364919/ | access-date=August 18, 2024}} It has been produced at the {{convert|5400000|sqft}} Fremont, California, facility since June 2012.{{cite web | last=Katje | first=Chris | title=If you bought Tesla stock instead of a Model S at launch, here's how much you'd have now | publisher=Yahoo! Finance | date=January 20, 2021 | url=https://finance.yahoo.com/news/bought-tesla-stock-instead-model-132509899.html | access-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240818190655/https://finance.yahoo.com/news/bought-tesla-stock-instead-model-132509899.html | url-status=live }}{{cite news|url= https://www.sfchronicle.com/business/article/Tesla-s-Bay-Area-real-estate-empire-keeps-7996882.php|title= Tesla's Bay Area real estate empire keeps growing|first=David R.|last=Baker|date=June 11, 2016|access-date=August 19, 2024|newspaper=San Francisco Chronicle}} Tesla initially projected it would produce 1,000 units per month, aiming for a total of 5,000 units by the end of 2012. For 2013, Tesla aimed to quadruple that. Tesla built its 1,000th Model S by October 31, 2012,{{cite web | last=Kerr | first=Dara | title=Tesla celebrates production of 1,000th Model S car | website=CNET | date=October 31, 2012 | url=https://www.cnet.com/science/tesla-celebrates-production-of-1000th-model-s-car/ | access-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240818201408/https://www.cnet.com/science/tesla-celebrates-production-of-1000th-model-s-car/ | url-status=live }} and delivered 2,650 units by the end of the year.{{cite web | title=Tesla Motors expects first profit in Q1 | work=Reuters | date=February 20, 2013 | url=https://www.reuters.com/article/teslamotors-results-idUSL4N0BK65V20130220/ | access-date=August 19, 2024}} In the first half of the subsequent year, 10,050 units were delivered to customers.{{cite web | title=Tesla surges to more than Fiat value after first-ever profit | website=Bloomberg News | url-access=subscription | date=May 9, 2013 | url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2013-05-08/tesla-posts-first-quarterly-profit-on-model-s-deliveries | access-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-date=January 9, 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220109060354/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2013-05-08/tesla-posts-first-quarterly-profit-on-model-s-deliveries | url-status=live }}

From August 2013, for European countries, final assembly was carried out at Tesla's facilities in Tilburg, the Netherlands.{{cite web | last=Isidore | first=Chris | title=Tesla kicks off European expansion | website=CNN Money | date=September 10, 2013 | url=https://money.cnn.com/2013/09/10/autos/tesla-europe/index.html | access-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-date=September 24, 2018 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180924001115/https://money.cnn.com/2013/09/10/autos/tesla-europe/index.html | url-status=live }} The aim of the Tilburg factory was to shorten delivery times for customers in Britain and the EU, improve product quality, and establish the automaker's presence in Europe by producing the Model S and the Model X.{{cite web | last=McNamara | first=Phil | title=Tesla's Dutch factory to double production for Model S and Model X crossover | website=Car | date=September 25, 2015 | url=https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-news/industry-news/tesla/teslas-dutch-factory-doubles-production-for-model-s-and-model-x-crossover/ | access-date=September 16, 2024 | archive-date=September 23, 2018 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180923163233/https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-news/industry-news/tesla/teslas-dutch-factory-doubles-production-for-model-s-and-model-x-crossover/ | url-status=live }} The assembly of both the Model S and Model X at the Tilburg facility ceased in early 2021. According to the Dutch newspaper NU.nl, the 2021 refresh introduced changes to the production process that made it impossible to complete final assembly at the Tilburg location.{{cite web | last=Szymkowski | first=Sean | title=Tesla to shutter Model S, Model X final assembly plant in the Netherlands, report says | website=CNET | date=March 19, 2021 | url=https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/tesla-model-s-model-x-assembly-plant-netherlands/ | access-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-date=August 18, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240818192949/https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/tesla-model-s-model-x-assembly-plant-netherlands/ | url-status=live }}

The Model S was the first vehicle by Tesla produced at the Fremont facility.{{cite web | last=Bellan | first=Rebecca | title=Elon Musk reveals the Tesla Model S Plaid | publisher=Yahoo! Finance | date=June 11, 2021 | url=https://au.finance.yahoo.com/news/elon-musk-reveals-tesla-model-051542329.html | access-date=August 19, 2024 | archive-date=June 22, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210622020555/https://au.finance.yahoo.com/news/elon-musk-reveals-tesla-model-051542329.html | url-status=live }} It was followed by the Model X in 2015, the Model 3 in 2017 and the Model Y in 2020.{{cite news|url=https://www.sfgate.com/business/article/Tesla-Model-X-spreads-its-wings-at-Freemont-6539136.php|title=Tesla Model X spreads its wings at Fremont unveiling|website=SFGate|first=David R.|last=Baker|date=October 1, 2015|access-date=August 19, 2024|archive-date=August 19, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240819014120/https://www.sfgate.com/business/article/Tesla-Model-X-spreads-its-wings-at-Freemont-6539136.php|url-status=live}}{{cite web | title=Elon Musk hands over first Tesla Model 3 electric cars to buyers | website=The Guardian | agency=Reuters | date=July 29, 2017 | url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2017/jul/29/elon-musk-hands-over-first-tesla-model-3-electric-cars-to-buyers | access-date=August 19, 2024 | archive-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820054138/https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2017/jul/29/elon-musk-hands-over-first-tesla-model-3-electric-cars-to-buyers | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Baldwin | first=Roberto | title=Tesla beats expectations, declares a profit, and has started Model Y production | website=Car and Driver | date=January 29, 2020 | url=https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a30705862/tesla-production-results-q4-model-y/ | access-date=August 19, 2024 | archive-date=January 1, 2021 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210101021835/https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a30705862/tesla-production-results-q4-model-y/ | url-status=live }} These cars form the "S3XY" acronym.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/calgary-herald/153574715/|title=Tesla's crossover Model Y to offer 482-km range|newspaper=Calgary Herald|date=March 22, 2019|page=E3|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=August 19, 2024|archive-date=August 20, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820054636/https://www.newspapers.com/article/calgary-herald/153574715/|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press/153575450/|title=Ford taking name it blocked from Tesla|newspaper=Detroit Free Press|date=March 3, 2022|via=Newspapers.com|page=A6|access-date=August 19, 2024|archive-date=August 20, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820054639/https://www.newspapers.com/article/detroit-free-press/153575450/|url-status=live}} In 2015, the Model S was the world's best-selling plug-in electric vehicle,{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-plain-dealer/153581994/|title=It's not too soon for a drive into the future|newspaper=The Plain Dealer|page=52|first=Joey|last=Morona|date=April 17, 2016|access-date=August 19, 2024|via=Newspapers.com|archive-date=August 20, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820054650/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-plain-dealer/153581994/|url-status=live}} with Tesla selling 50,366 in that year.{{cite news|title=The Tesla Model S was the best-selling EV of 2015|newspaper=Newstex|date=January 14, 2016|id={{ProQuest|1756680045}}}} It was the second-best-selling car in 2016 after the Nissan Leaf.{{cite web | last=Carrington | first=Damian | title=Electric cars set to pass 2m landmark globally by end of 2016 | website=The Guardian | date=October 13, 2016 | url=https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2016/oct/13/electric-car-sales-set-to-pass-2m-landmark-globally-by-end-of-2016 | access-date=May 11, 2025}} Since its inception, the Model S has been equipped with batteries supplied primarily by the electronics company Panasonic in Japan.{{cite web|url=https://www.advancedsciencenews.com/tesla-model-s-panasonic-lithium-ion-batteries/|title=Tesla Model S electric car uses Panasonic lithium-ion batteries|website=Advanced Science|first=Dave|last=Flanagan|date=June 26, 2012|access-date=August 19, 2024|archive-date=August 19, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240819091110/https://www.advancedsciencenews.com/tesla-model-s-panasonic-lithium-ion-batteries/|url-status=live}}{{cite web | first=Ben | last=Rosen | title=Gigafactory begins battery production: Start of something big for Tesla? | website=The Christian Science Monitor | date=January 4, 2017 | url=https://www.csmonitor.com/Technology/2017/0104/Gigafactory-begins-battery-production-Start-of-something-big-for-Tesla | access-date=September 15, 2024}}{{cite web | title=Panasonic delivers over 100 million lithium-ion battery cells for Tesla Model S | website=Japan Today | date=June 13, 2013 | url=https://japantoday.com/category/tech/panasonic-delivers-over-100-million-lithium-ion-battery-cells-for-tesla-model-s | access-date=September 15, 2024 | archive-date=September 15, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240915153432/https://japantoday.com/category/tech/panasonic-delivers-over-100-million-lithium-ion-battery-cells-for-tesla-model-s | url-status=live }} Since January 2017, the car's batteries have also been produced at Gigafactory Nevada.{{cite web | last=Randall | first=Tom | title=Tesla starts Gigafactory battery cell production | website=Australian Financial Review | url-access=subscription | date=January 4, 2017 | url=https://www.afr.com/technology/tesla-starts-gigafactory-battery-cell-production-20170105-gtm472 | access-date=August 19, 2024 | archive-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820054641/https://www.afr.com/technology/tesla-starts-gigafactory-battery-cell-production-20170105-gtm472 | url-status=live }} European retail deliveries began between August and September 2013, with Norway,{{cite web | last=Murph | first=Darren | title=Tesla Model S deliveries begin outside of North America, starting with Norway | website=Yahoo! News | agency=Engadget | date=August 7, 2013 | url=https://sg.news.yahoo.com/2013-08-07-tesla-model-s-deliveries-begin-outside-north-america-oslo.html | access-date=August 19, 2024 | archive-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820054649/https://gum.criteo.com/syncframe?origin=publishertag&topUrl=sg.news.yahoo.com&gdpr=0&gdpr_consent=&us_privacy=1YNN&gpp=DBABBg~BVoIgACY.QA&gpp_sid=8 | url-status=live }} Switzerland,{{cite web|url=https://uk.style.yahoo.com/2013-08-07-tesla-hits-another-home-run.html|title=Tesla hits another home run|website=Yahoo! Life|date=August 8, 2013|access-date=August 19, 2024|agency=AOL|archive-date=August 19, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240819100900/https://uk.style.yahoo.com/2013-08-07-tesla-hits-another-home-run.html|url-status=live}} the Netherlands, Belgium, France, and Germany.{{cite web | first=Joao | last=Peixe | title=Tesla Motors goes to Europe | website=The Christian Science Monitor | date=September 4, 2013 | url=https://www.csmonitor.com/Environment/Energy-Voices/2013/0904/Tesla-Motors-goes-to-Europe | access-date=September 15, 2024 | archive-date=September 15, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240915154000/https://www.csmonitor.com/Environment/Energy-Voices/2013/0904/Tesla-Motors-goes-to-Europe | url-status=live }} The first Australian delivery took place in Sydney on December 9, 2014.{{cite web | last=Safi | first=Michael | title=Tesla begins selling electric vehicles in Australia and plans charging network | website=The Guardian | date=December 10, 2014 | url=https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2014/dec/10/tesla-begins-selling-electric-vehicles-in-australia-and-plans-charging-network | access-date=August 19, 2024 | archive-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820054642/https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2014/dec/10/tesla-begins-selling-electric-vehicles-in-australia-and-plans-charging-network | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Thomas | first=Jason | title=Tesla's electric cars come to Australia | website=SBS News | date=December 11, 2014 | url=https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/teslas-electric-cars-come-to-australia-and-they-could-benefit-the-power-market/sji8083fm | access-date=August 19, 2024 | archive-date=February 9, 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230209141947/https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/teslas-electric-cars-come-to-australia-and-they-could-benefit-the-power-market/sji8083fm | url-status=live }} Deliveries to the mainland Chinese market began on April 22, 2014,{{cite web | last=Makinen | first=Julie | title=Tesla delivers its first electric cars in China; delays upset some | website=Los Angeles Times | url-access=subscription | date=April 22, 2014 | url=https://www.latimes.com/business/autos/la-fi-hy-tesla-elon-musk-china-20140422-story.html | access-date=August 19, 2024 | archive-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820060709/https://www.latimes.com/business/autos/la-fi-hy-tesla-elon-musk-china-20140422-story.html | url-status=live }} followed by Hong Kong in July 2014.{{cite web | last=Soo | first=Zen | title=Tesla Model S P85D luxury performance sedan launches in Hong Kong as demand for electric cars grows | website=South China Morning Post | date=August 18, 2015 | url=https://www.scmp.com/tech/enterprises/article/1850228/tesla-model-s-p85d-luxury-performance-sedan-launches-hong-kong | access-date=August 19, 2024 | archive-date=November 26, 2022 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221126235457/https://www.scmp.com/tech/enterprises/article/1850228/tesla-model-s-p85d-luxury-performance-sedan-launches-hong-kong | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Kang | first=John | title=Model 3 will boost Tesla cars go mainstream in 'beacon city for electric vehicles' | website=Forbes | date=April 2, 2016 | url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/johnkang/2016/04/02/model-3-boost-tesla-cars-go-mainstream-in-hong-kong/ | access-date=August 19, 2024 | archive-date=May 21, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240521201138/https://www.forbes.com/sites/johnkang/2016/04/02/model-3-boost-tesla-cars-go-mainstream-in-hong-kong/ | url-status=live }} Deliveries to the United Kingdom began in June 2014.{{cite web|url=https://www.whatcar.com/news/tesla-confirms-more-uk-charging-points-uk-research-facility-and-new-models/n2147|title=Tesla confirms more UK charging points, UK research facility and new models|website=What Car?|access-date=August 19, 2024|date=June 7, 2014|first=Nigel|last=Donnelly|archive-date=August 19, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240819104925/https://www.whatcar.com/news/tesla-confirms-more-uk-charging-points-uk-research-facility-and-new-models/n2147|url-status=live}}

In a European New Car Assessment Programme testing conducted in 2022, the Model S received a five-star rating:{{cite web | title=Official Tesla Model S 2022 safety rating | publisher=Euro NCAP | url=https://www.euroncap.com/en/results/tesla/model+s/47760 | access-date=August 19, 2024 | archive-date=August 10, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240810130836/https://www.euroncap.com/en/results/tesla/model+s/47760 | url-status=live }}

{{Euro NCAP|year=2022|overall_stars=5|adult_percent=94|adult_points=35.8|child_points=45.0|child_percent=91|safety_points=15.7|safety_percent=98|pedestrian_points=45.9|pedestrian_percent=85|description=Tesla Model S}}

In a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) testing conducted in 2015, the Model S received a five-star rating.{{cite web | title=2015 Tesla Model S 60kwh 5 HB RWD | publisher=NHTSA | url=https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2015/TESLA/MODEL%252520S%25252060KWH/5%252520HB/RWD | access-date=August 19, 2024 | archive-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820054633/https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2015/TESLA/MODEL%252520S%25252060KWH/5%252520HB/RWD | url-status=live }} Tesla subsequently claimed that—based on the details of the test—it actually achieved 5.4 stars, prompting the NHTSA to release a statement reaffirming that it does not award more than five stars, and that Tesla was "misleading the public" by claiming in their marketing that the NHTSA had awarded them a higher rating.{{cite news |last=Shepardson |first=David |date=October 9, 2018 |title=U.S. agency says Tesla safety claim goes beyond its analysis |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-autos-tesla-idUSKCN1MJ2HR |access-date=March 12, 2021 |work=Reuters |archive-date=April 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210427225531/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-autos-tesla-idUSKCN1MJ2HR |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last=Chang |first=John |date=November 21, 2013 |title=Agency pushes back on Tesla 5.4 star safety rating claim |url=https://abcnews.go.com/Technology/tesla-crash-test-rating-high-maker-claimed/story?id=20024779 |access-date=March 12, 2021 |publisher=ABC News |archive-date=March 2, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210302022252/https://abcnews.go.com/Technology/tesla-crash-test-rating-high-maker-claimed/story?id=20024779 |url-status=live }}

On June 14, 2013, Tesla recalled Model S vehicles manufactured between May 10 and June 8, 2013, due to improper methods for aligning the left hand seat back striker to the bracket, which could weaken the weld between the bracket and frame. Musk stated that the weld had not detached on any car, there had been no complaints, and no injuries had occurred.{{cite web | title=Tesla's first Model S recall: Seat defect puts new brand to the test | website=The Christian Science Monitor | date=June 19, 2013 | url=https://www.csmonitor.com/Business/In-Gear/2013/0619/Tesla-s-first-Model-S-recall-Seat-defect-puts-new-brand-to-the-test | access-date=August 19, 2024 | archive-date=August 19, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240819113129/https://www.csmonitor.com/Business/In-Gear/2013/0619/Tesla-s-first-Model-S-recall-Seat-defect-puts-new-brand-to-the-test | url-status=live }} In early January 2014, Tesla issued a recall for Model S vehicles from 2013 due to the risk of overheating with the adapter, cord, or wall outlet during charging. Following the recall, Jérôme Guillen, Tesla's vice president of sales, announced that nearly all Model S adapters had already been updated via over-the-air software to address the charging problem. Tesla noted that the recall impacted nearly all Model S vehicles and adapters produced in 2013.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/albuquerque-journal/153586314/|title=Charging adapters in Teslas recalled|newspaper=Albuquerque Journal|date=January 15, 2014|via=Newspapers.com|access-date=August 19, 2024|page=9|archive-date=August 20, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820054643/https://www.newspapers.com/article/albuquerque-journal/153586314/|url-status=live}} Tesla announced a voluntary recall on November 20, 2015, of all of its 90,000 Model S vehicles, to check for a possible defect in the cars' front seat belt assemblies. The problem was raised by one customer in Europe. Tesla's resulting investigation was unable to identify a root cause for the failure, and the company decided to examine every car. Tesla reported that no accidents or injuries were related to the problem.{{cite web | title=Tesla recalling all Model S sedans to check for seat belt defect | website=NBC News | date=November 20, 2015 | url=https://www.nbcnews.com/business/autos/tesla-recalling-all-model-s-sedans-check-seat-belt-defect-n467171 | access-date=August 19, 2024 | archive-date=October 13, 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231013041030/https://www.nbcnews.com/business/autos/tesla-recalling-all-model-s-sedans-check-seat-belt-defect-n467171 | url-status=live }}

On January 20, 2017, Tesla recalled every Model S manufactured from 2012 because of defective Takata airbags. This recall not only impacted the Model S but also affected about 652,000 other vehicles from other automakers across the United States, which, at the time, was the largest automotive recall in the country's history.{{cite news|url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-toronto-star/153586406/|title=Faulty airbags affect 652,000 cars in the U.S.|newspaper=The Toronto Star|date=January 20, 2017|page=16|access-date=August 19, 2024|archive-date=August 29, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829235232/https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-toronto-star/153586406/|url-status=live}} On April 20, 2017, Tesla issued a worldwide recall of 53,000 of the 76,000 Model S and Model X vehicles sold in 2016 due to faulty parking brakes. Tesla assured that this issue was unlikely to cause safety problems and had not resulted in any accidents or injuries. Despite this, the company asked customers to have their cars inspected, a process that took about forty-five minutes. About five{{nbsp}}percent of the vehicles were affected, and Brembo, the supplier of the defective part, would cover the repair costs.{{cite web | last=Lee | first=Timothy B. | title=Tesla's real problem isn't that its cars are expensive. It's that they're unreliable. | website=Vox | date=June 9, 2016 | url=http://www.vox.com/2016/6/9/11880450/tesla-doomed | language=en-US | access-date=August 19, 2024 | archive-date=January 4, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240104070215/https://www.vox.com/2016/6/9/11880450/tesla-doomed | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Lee | first=Timothy B. | title=Tesla is recalling most of the cars it sold in 2016 | website=Vox | date=April 20, 2017 | url=http://www.vox.com/new-money/2017/4/20/15374592/tesla-recall-53000-cars | language=en-US | access-date=August 19, 2024 | archive-date=July 6, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240706204350/https://www.vox.com/new-money/2017/4/20/15374592/tesla-recall-53000-cars | url-status=live }} All 123,000 Model S cars manufactured before April 2016 were recalled on March 30, 2018, due to excessive corrosion of the bolts which secure the power steering, particularly those cars used in cold countries where roads are salted. Tesla's stock dropped nearly four{{nbsp}}percent in after-hours trading on Thursday following the announcement of the Model S recall.{{cite web | last=Wattles | first=Jackie | title=Tesla is recalling 123,000 Model S vehicles | website=CNN Money | date=March 29, 2018 | url=https://money.cnn.com/2018/03/29/technology/business/tesla-model-s-recall/index.html | access-date=August 19, 2024 | archive-date=January 22, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240122005420/https://money.cnn.com/2018/03/29/technology/business/tesla-model-s-recall/index.html | url-status=live }}

In December 2021, 119,009 Model S vehicles produced between 2017 and 2020 were recalled because of the possibility of latch failure allowing front hoods to open unexpectedly. The recall, according to the company, affected around 14{{nbsp}}percent of all Model S vehicles.{{cite web | last=Rushe | first=Dominic | title=Tesla recalls half a million cars in US over rearview camera and trunk defects | website=The Guardian | date=December 30, 2021 | url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2021/dec/30/tesla-recalls-cars-rearview-camera-trunk-defects | access-date=August 19, 2024 | archive-date=August 29, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829235110/https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2021/dec/30/tesla-recalls-cars-rearview-camera-trunk-defects | url-status=live }} In February 2024, Tesla recalled over two{{nbsp}}million Tesla vehicles in the United States due to the compact size of the warning lights on the instrument panel. Documents indicated that the recall was issued to enhance warnings and alerts for drivers. The NHTSA reported that the font size of the brake, park, and antilock brake warning lights was smaller than mandated by federal safety standards. This size made information difficult to read, thereby increasing the risk of a collision.{{cite web | agency=Associated Press | title=Tesla recalls almost all its vehicles sold in the US over warning light problems | website=The Guardian | date=February 2, 2024 | url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2024/feb/02/tesla-recall-warning-light-font-size | access-date=September 16, 2024}} The Model S was part of a major recall in July 2024 affecting approximately 1.8 million vehicles. The recall addressed a software issue that could prevent the detection of an unlatched hood, posing a risk of it unexpectedly opening while the vehicle was in motion. According to NHTSA documentation, this malfunction could obstruct the driver's vision, increasing the likelihood of a crash.{{cite web | last=Fortinsky | first=Sarah | title=Tesla recalling nearly two{{nbsp}}million cars over hood issue that increases crash risk | website=The Hill | date=July 30, 2024 | url=https://thehill.com/policy/transportation/4800164-tesla-recall-software-issue/ | access-date=March 27, 2025 | archive-date=December 26, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241226161918/https://thehill.com/policy/transportation/4800164-tesla-recall-software-issue/ | url-status=live }}

{{See also|Plug-in electric vehicle fire incidents#Tesla Model S, 3, X, and Y|l1=Tesla fire incidents}}

A fire involving a Model S occurred on October 1, 2013, after the vehicle struck metal debris on Washington State Route 167 in Kent, Washington. The driver was alerted by the onboard system and was able to safely exit the highway, stop the car, and leave the vehicle without injury.{{cite news |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/BL-MBB-9403 |title=Musk explains why Tesla Model S caught on fire |first=Steven |last=Russolillo |url-access=subscription |newspaper=The Wall Street Journal |date=October 4, 2013 |access-date=September 13, 2024 |archive-date=December 11, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231211200023/https://www.wsj.com/articles/BL-MBB-9403 |url-status=live }} Tesla later explained that the fire was triggered by a "direct impact of a large metallic object" to one of the car's 16 battery modules. The vehicle's design, which included firewalls separating the modules, limited the fire to a small section at the front of the car.{{cite news |url=http://wheels.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/10/02/highway-fire-of-tesla-model-s-included-its-lithium-battery/?ref=automobiles&_r=0 |title=Tesla says car fire started in battery |first=Christopher |last=Jensen |newspaper=The New York Times |date=October 2, 2013 |access-date=September 13, 2024 |archive-date=October 16, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131016195242/http://wheels.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/10/02/highway-fire-of-tesla-model-s-included-its-lithium-battery/?ref=automobiles&_r=0 |url-status=live }} The debris that caused the fire was identified as a "curved section" that had fallen off a truck and was recovered nearby. According to Tesla, the debris pierced a {{convert|3|in|-1|sing=on}} hole through the vehicle's {{cvt|0.25|in|0}} armor plate, with an estimated force of {{cvt|25|ST}}. Vents directed the flames away from the passenger compartment, preventing them from entering the cabin.

On October 24, 2013, the NHTSA announced that it had not found evidence suggesting the fire resulted from a vehicle safety defect or noncompliance with federal safety standards.{{cite news |url=http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20131024/AUTO01/310240137/1121/auto0102/U.S.-will-not-open-investigation-into-Tesla-fire |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029191027/http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20131024/AUTO01/310240137/1121/auto0102/U.S.-will-not-open-investigation-into-Tesla-fire |url-status=dead|archive-date=October 29, 2013 |title=U.S. will not open investigation into Tesla fire |author=David Shepardson |newspaper=The Detroit News |date=September 13, 2024 |access-date=September 13, 2024}} However, in the following month, the NHTSA initiated a preliminary evaluation to assess the potential risks associated with undercarriage strikes on 2013 Tesla Model S vehicles.{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/20/business/us-safety-agency-opens-inquiry-into-tesla-fires.html?ref=automobiles&_r=0 |title=After 3 fires, safety agency opens inquiry into Tesla Model S |first1=Bill |last1=Vlasic |first2=Jaclyn |last2=Trop |newspaper=The New York Times |date=November 19, 2013 |access-date=September 13, 2024 |archive-date=July 12, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240712082052/https://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/20/business/us-safety-agency-opens-inquiry-into-tesla-fires.html?ref=automobiles&_r=0 |url-status=live }} On March 28, 2014, the investigation was closed, with the NHTSA stating that "Tesla's revision of vehicle ride height and addition of increased underbody protection should reduce both the frequency of underbody strikes and the resultant fire risk".{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2014/03/29/business/safety-agency-ends-investigation-of-tesla-fires.html?ref=automobiles&_r=0 |title=Federal safety agency ends its investigation of Tesla fires |first=Danielle |last=Ivory |newspaper=The New York Times |date=March 28, 2014 |access-date=September 13, 2024 |archive-date=October 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231013040012/https://www.nytimes.com/2014/03/29/business/safety-agency-ends-investigation-of-tesla-fires.html?ref=automobiles&_r=0 |url-status=live }}{{cite web | title=Safety agency ends Tesla car fire probe after maker adds shield | website=NBC News | date=March 28, 2014 | url=https://www.nbcnews.com/business/autos/safety-agency-ends-tesla-car-fire-probe-after-maker-adds-n66161 | access-date=September 17, 2024}}

On November 6, 2013, another fire occurred when a Tesla Model S struck a tow hitch on the road, causing damage to the underside of the vehicle.{{cite news |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/08/business/another-fire-raises-questions-for-tesla.html |title=Another fire raises questions for Tesla |first=Jaclyn |last=Trop |newspaper=The New York Times |date=November 7, 2013 |access-date=September 13, 2024 |archive-date=September 13, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240913131301/https://www.nytimes.com/2013/11/08/business/another-fire-raises-questions-for-tesla.html |url-status=live }} In response to these incidents, Tesla extended its vehicle warranty to cover fire damage and issued a software update to increase the car's ground clearance at highway speeds. In early February 2014, another fire incident was reported in Toronto, Canada. The Model S was parked in a garage and was not charging at the time. The cause of the fire remains undetermined.{{cite web | title=No cause determined in Tesla Model S fire in Toronto | website=SFGate | date=February 15, 2014 | url=https://www.sfgate.com/business/article/no-cause-determined-in-tesla-model-s-fire-in-5236915.php | access-date=September 17, 2024}}{{cite news |url=http://www.businessinsider.com/february-1st-toronto-tesla-fire-2014-2 |title=Another Tesla caught on fire while sitting in a Toronto garage this month |first=Linette |last=Lopez |work=Business Insider |date=February 13, 2014 |access-date=September 13, 2024 |archive-date=July 8, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140708050558/http://www.businessinsider.com/february-1st-toronto-tesla-fire-2014-2 |url-status=live }} Tesla stated, "in this particular case, we don't yet know the precise cause, but have definitively determined that it did not originate in the battery, the charging system, the adapter or the electrical receptacle, as these components were untouched by the fire".{{cite news |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2014-02-14/tesla-investigating-cause-of-toronto-garage-fire-with-model-s.html |title=Tesla investigating cause of fire in Toronto with Model S |first=Alan |last=Ohnsman |work=Bloomberg News |date=February 14, 2014 |access-date=February 16, 2014 |archive-date=September 13, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240913131304/https://www.bloomberg.com/tosv2.html?vid=&uuid=e91daddd-71d1-11ef-b3ca-4aaaf07b90ff&url=L25ld3MvMjAxNC0wMi0xNC90ZXNsYS1pbnZlc3RpZ2F0aW5nLWNhdXNlLW9mLXRvcm9udG8tZ2FyYWdlLWZpcmUtd2l0aC1tb2RlbC1zLmh0bWw= |url-status=live }}{{cite web | title=Tesla Model S catches fire while sitting in a Toronto garage | website=Financial Post | date=February 14, 2014 | url=https://financialpost.com/business-insider/tesla-catches-fire-while-sitting-in-a-toronto-garage | access-date=September 16, 2024}}

On January 1, 2016, a 2014 Model S caught fire in Norway while supercharging unsupervised. The vehicle was destroyed but nobody was injured.{{cite news |url=http://jalopnik.com/tesla-model-s-burns-to-a-crisp-during-supercharging-in-1750581400 |title=Tesla Model S burns to a crisp during supercharging in Norway |first=Patrick |last=George |work=Jalopnik |date=January 1, 2016 |access-date=September 13, 2024 |archive-date=April 11, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240411001933/https://jalopnik.com/tesla-model-s-burns-to-a-crisp-during-supercharging-in-1750581400 |url-status=live }} An investigation by the Norwegian Accident Investigation Board concluded that the fire started within the car, but the exact cause could not be determined.{{cite news | title=Tesla Motors Inc says supercharger not at fault in Model S fire| magazine=Newstex | date=January 21, 2016|id={{ProQuest|1758697636}} }} In March 2016, Tesla announced that their own investigation found that the fire was caused by a short circuit in the vehicle's distribution box, but the extent of the damage made it impossible to determine the exact cause.{{cite news |url=http://www.vg.no/forbruker/bil-baat-og-motor/elbil/tesla-brannen-kortslutning-i-bilen-men-vet-ikke-hvorfor/a/23640710/ |title=Tesla-brannen: Kortslutning i bilen, men vet ikke hvorfor |trans-title=Tesla fire: Short circuit in the car but do not know why |first1=Hanne |last1=Hattrem |first2=Øystein |last2=Larsen-Vonstett |date=March 17, 2016 |language=no |access-date=March 18, 2016 |newspaper=Verdens Gang |archive-date=March 20, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160320072901/http://www.vg.no/forbruker/bil-baat-og-motor/elbil/tesla-brannen-kortslutning-i-bilen-men-vet-ikke-hvorfor/a/23640710/ |url-status=live }} A three-month-old Model S caught fire three times in December 2018, requiring firefighters to spend nearly ten hours preventing reignition.{{cite web | last1=Gutman | first1=Matt | last2=Youn | first2=Soo | title=Firefighters work 16 hours to put out fires in Tesla Model S | publisher=ABC News | date=December 21, 2018 | url=https://abcnews.go.com/Technology/tesla-opens-investigation-car-burst-flames-times/story?id=59930420 | access-date=March 27, 2025}} In July 2021, a Model S Plaid caught fire, and its electronic door system failed, forcing the driver to "use force to push it open". The vehicle then moved approximately {{convert|35 to 40|ft}} before erupting into a "fireball".{{cite web | title=Tesla top-of-range car caught fire while owner was driving, lawyer says | work=Reuters | date=July 2, 2021 | url=https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/tesla-top-of-range-car-caught-fire-while-owner-was-driving-lawyer-says-2021-07-02/ | access-date=March 27, 2025}}

The Model S has been referred to by several critics as one of the most influential and important electric cars.{{cite web | last=Rufford | first=Nick | title=First drive review: Tesla Model S Performance (2013) | website=The Sunday Times | date=April 18, 2014 | url=https://www.driving.co.uk/car-reviews/first-drive-review-tesla-model-s-performance-2013/ | access-date=August 19, 2024 | archive-date=April 12, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240412123235/https://www.driving.co.uk/car-reviews/first-drive-review-tesla-model-s-performance-2013/ | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Mutchler | first=Tom | title=Discussing the influential Tesla Model S, Toyota Camry, and CarPlay | website=Yahoo! News | date=October 14, 2014 | url=https://news.yahoo.com/news/discussing-influential-tesla-model-toyota-camry-carplay-160000849.html | access-date=August 19, 2024 | archive-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820055713/https://news.yahoo.com/news/discussing-influential-tesla-model-toyota-camry-carplay-160000849.html | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Berk | first=Brett | title=Is the Tesla Model S the most important car of the 21st century? | website=Vanity Fair | date=August 6, 2012 | url=https://www.vanityfair.com/style/2012/08/tesla-model-s-electric-car-review-car-of-the-future | access-date=August 19, 2024 | archive-date=March 27, 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230327173741/https://www.vanityfair.com/style/2012/08/tesla-model-s-electric-car-review-car-of-the-future | url-status=live }} In a 2014 review for the newspaper The Sunday Times, Nick Rufford remarked, "the Model S represents the last throw of the electric dice{{nbsp}}[...] if this vehicle can't persuade people to ditch petrol and switch to battery power, no car can". In 2014, The Daily Telegraph included the Model S on its list of "cars that changed the world" and called it the most important car of the last 20 years.{{cite web | last=Knapman | first=Chris | title=Tesla Model S: the most important car of the last 20 years | website=The Daily Telegraph | date=December 19, 2014 | url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/motoring/motoringvideo/11301983/Tesla-Model-S-the-most-important-car-of-the-last-20-years.html | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141219104030/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/motoring/motoringvideo/11301983/Tesla-Model-S-the-most-important-car-of-the-last-20-years.html | archive-date=December 19, 2014 | url-status=dead | access-date=August 20, 2024}} The BBC-owned magazine Top Gear described it as "one of the most appealing electric vehicles in the world{{nbsp}}[...] and one that almost single-handedly forced mainstream manufacturers to embrace electricity".{{cite web | title=Tesla Model S review | website=Top Gear | publisher=BBC | date=December 27, 2023 | url=https://www.topgear.com/car-reviews/tesla/model-s | access-date=August 19, 2024 | archive-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820060712/https://www.topgear.com/car-reviews/tesla/model-s | url-status=live }} Keith Barry of Consumer Reports mentioned that the introduction of specific features, such as a yoke-style steering wheel, has "distracted from the flagship sedan's underlying brilliance, as has Musk's public image".{{NoteTag|For more information on Musk's controversial statements and public image, see views of Elon Musk.}}{{cite web | last=Barry | first=Keith | title=How the Tesla Model S changed the world | website=Consumer Reports | date=October 19, 2023 | url=https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/how-the-tesla-model-s-changed-the-world-a7291465820/ | access-date=August 19, 2024 | archive-date=July 9, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240709193307/https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/hybrids-evs/how-the-tesla-model-s-changed-the-world-a7291465820/ | url-status=live }} Consumer Reports additionally pointed out that the success of the Model S prompted other automakers to rethink how they design and market their vehicles. The magazine Car and Driver noted that the Model S was the "first long-range, widely desired electric vehicle" when it was released, adding that "mainstream automakers{{nbsp}}[...] [struggled] to catch up".

File:2017 Nissan LEAF (ZE0 MY17) hatchback (2018-11-02) 01.jpg, despite the two featuring different body styles.{{NoteTag|The Model S is a liftback sedan,{{cite web | last=Skoric | first=Nikolina | title=The Tesla Model S 100D is the longest-range electric vehicle on the market | website=GQ | date=January 24, 2017 | url=https://www.gq.com.au/lifestyle/cars/the-tesla-model-s-100d-is-the-longestrange-electric-vehicle-on-the-market/news-story/6e98572de22f560c6f432a52db54a415 | access-date=April 11, 2025}} while the Leaf is a hatchback.{{cite web | last=Webb | first=Tim | title=Nissan unveils its electric car, the Leaf | website=The Guardian | date=August 2, 2009 | url=https://www.theguardian.com/business/2009/aug/02/nissan-unveils-electric-car-leaf | access-date=April 11, 2025}}}}]]

The Model S has received mixed reviews from automotive critics. Samuel Gibbs from the newspaper The Guardian referred to it as a "swish saloon car", writing that, unlike many other electric vehicles, it did not resemble "a bug or bubble-car". Gibbs was also impressed by its acceleration, remarking that it has "it has enough power to beat even the Aston Martin Rapide, all without petrol and with no emissions".{{cite web | last=Gibbs | first=Samuel | title=Tesla Model S launch: an electric car to answer even Clarkson's objections | website=The Guardian | date=June 7, 2014 | url=https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2014/jun/07/electric-car-tesla-motor-roadster-electric-sports-car | access-date=August 19, 2024 | archive-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820054453/https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2014/jun/07/electric-car-tesla-motor-roadster-electric-sports-car | url-status=live }} Reviewing for The Independent, Lee Williams called the Model S "a beautiful car that symbolizes humanity's march towards automation", but criticized its large size, describing the car as "too damn big".{{cite web | last=Williams | first=Lee | title=I tested out a Tesla Model S for a week and it was a little bit frightening | website=The Independent | date=October 26, 2016 | url=https://www.independent.co.uk/tech/tesla-model-s-test-review-driverless-car-a7379266.html | access-date=August 19, 2024 | archive-date=August 19, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240819143233/https://www.independent.co.uk/tech/tesla-model-s-test-review-driverless-car-a7379266.html | url-status=live }} Road & Track{{'}}s Chris Perkins argued that Tesla managed to turn the "most important car of the century into a bad joke", describing the Model S Plaid as "perhaps one of the worst [cars in the world]". He called its yoke steering wheel "incredibly stupid", described its damping as "irritating", and stated that "it doesn't have the chassis, steering, or brakes to deal with the horsepower". The U.S. News & World Report thought that its "basic interior feels out of step with its price, and newer rivals offer more room, style and, in some cases, range".{{cite web | last=Kwanten | first=Alex | title=2024 Tesla Model S review, pricing, & pictures | website=U.S. News & World Report | date=February 20, 2024 | url=https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/tesla/model-s | access-date=August 26, 2024 | archive-date=July 10, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240710070643/https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/tesla/model-s | url-status=live }} Lee Hutchinson, the senior technology writer for Ars Technica,{{cite web | title=Author: Lee Hutchinson | website=Ars Technica | url=https://arstechnica.com/author/lee-hutchinson/ | access-date=January 3, 2025}} opined that its "almond-shaped headlights and prominent nosecone conjure images of Maserati, while the rear half has a distinct Aston Martin DBS flavor, [and] the taillights and rear evoke the Jaguar XF". While being in two completely different classes, critics frequently compare the Model S to the first generation of the Nissan Leaf, a hatchback.{{cite news|title=2019 Nissan Leaf Plus|newspaper=The Standard|date=June 6, 2019|page=A.7}}{{cite web | last=Walton | first=Mark | title=Used EV comparison test: Nissan Leaf vs Model S, Zoe, i3 and Twizy | website=Car | date=October 8, 2021 | url=https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-reviews/comparison/2021/used-electric-cars-nissan-leaf-vs-model-s-zoe-i3-and-twizy/ | access-date=September 22, 2024 | archive-date=September 22, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240922090439/https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-reviews/comparison/2021/used-electric-cars-nissan-leaf-vs-model-s-zoe-i3-and-twizy/ | url-status=live }}

Hutchinson, in another review, thought of its acceleration as "instant, ludicrous, [and] neck-snapping", believing that it was "more appropriate for a roller-coaster than a car". He described its styling as "graceful, with a precisely engineered exterior". Mat Watson, prominent for his Carwow reviews, praised the Model S Plaid as "astonishingly quick" and "extremely quiet", but he criticized its high price and noted that competing models offer greater comfort. Watson ultimately rated it eight out of ten.{{cite web | last=Watson | first=Mat | title=Tesla Model S review | publisher=Carwow | date=January 14, 2022 | url=https://www.carwow.co.uk/tesla/model-s | access-date=August 19, 2024 | archive-date=April 19, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240419003433/https://www.carwow.co.uk/tesla/model-s | url-status=live }} Writing for Car, Keith Adams described the Model S as "the king of the hill". He called the thrust "stomach-churning from rest", believing that the driver would "crave to relive the experience—again and again".{{cite web | last=Adams | first=Keith | title=Tesla Model S review: Still the king of the hill? | website=Car | date=April 27, 2023 | url=https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-reviews/tesla/model-s-electric/ | access-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820081248/https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-reviews/tesla/model-s-electric/ | url-status=live }} Jalopnik{{'}}s Lawrence Hodge criticized the yoke steering wheel, describing it as "stupid" and suggesting that its introduction was more of a downgrade than an upgrade.{{cite web | last=Hodge | first=Lawrence | title=The Tesla Model S and Model X are really showing their age | website=Jalopnik | date=April 7, 2023 | url=https://jalopnik.com/the-tesla-model-s-and-model-x-are-really-showing-their-1850311130 | access-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-date=August 29, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240829235221/https://jalopnik.com/the-tesla-model-s-and-model-x-are-really-showing-their-1850311130 | url-status=live }} In 2012, Time magazine named the Model S one of the best inventions of the year.{{cite magazine | title=Best Inventions of the Year 2012 | magazine=Time | date=November 1, 2012 | url=https://techland.time.com/2012/11/01/best-inventions-of-the-year-2012/slide/the-tesla-model-s/ | access-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240820060158/https://techland.time.com/2012/11/01/best-inventions-of-the-year-2012/slide/the-tesla-model-s/ | url-status=live }} It was later featured in the magazine's list of the 10 best gadgets of the 2010s.{{cite magazine | last=Austin | first=Patrick Lucas | title=The 10 Best Gadgets of the 2010s | magazine=Time | date=December 14, 2019 | url=https://time.com/5745302/best-gadgets-of-the-2010s-decade/ | access-date=August 20, 2024 | archive-date=June 1, 2020 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200601020048/https://time.com/5745302/best-gadgets-of-the-2010s-decade/ | url-status=live }}

File:Tesla Model SB, GIMS 2019, Le Grand-Saconnex (GIMS9972).jpg]]

Some companies have developed modified cars based on the Model S with different body styles. In February 2019, a one-off version of the Model S with a shooting brake body style, named the Model SB, was announced by Niels van Roij Design.{{cite web |date=February 21, 2019 |title=Ogle this Tesla Model S shooting brake |url=https://www.topgear.com/car-news/electric/ogle-tesla-model-s-shooting-brake |access-date=April 11, 2025 |website=Top Gear |archive-date=April 16, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250416022737/https://www.topgear.com/car-news/electric/ogle-tesla-model-s-shooting-brake |url-status=live }} While an initial production run of twenty was considered, only a single unit was built.{{cite web |date=December 15, 2017 |title=Behold: the one-off Tesla Model S Shooting Brake |url=https://www.topgear.com/node/232446 |access-date=April 11, 2025 |website=Top Gear |publisher=BBC |archive-date=April 16, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250416022514/https://www.topgear.com/node/232446 |url-status=live }} The single unit was finished in British racing green, mirrored by the glove compartment lining, a color choice inspired by the green found in the logo of Elipo, the company that assisted in the car's design, as well as foliage in Elipo owner Floris de Raadt's garden.{{cite web |last1=Gooderham |first1=Michael |last2=Bird |first2=Guy |date=April 11, 2025 |title=First Sight: Remetzcar Model SB |url=https://www.cardesignnews.com/first-sight/first-sight-remetzcar-model-sb/26999.article |access-date=April 11, 2025 |website=Car Design News |archive-date=March 16, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250316133956/https://www.cardesignnews.com/first-sight/first-sight-remetzcar-model-sb/26999.article |url-status=live }} It made its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2019.{{cite web |date=March 7, 2019 |title=Here's your big 2019 Geneva Motor Show roundup |url=https://www.topgear.com/car-news/geneva-motor-show/heres-your-big-2019-geneva-motor-show-roundup |access-date=April 11, 2025 |website=Top Gear |publisher=BBC}} In 2020 and 2023, coachbuilders Coleman Milne and Binz debuted their hearse conversions of the Model S, named the Wisper and Binz.E, respectively. Both versions have {{convert|220|mi}} of electric range.{{cite web | last=Gonderman | first=Monica | title=Ford Mustang Mach-E, Tesla Model S hearses compete to be your last ride | website=Motor Trend | date=January 20, 2023 | url=https://www.motortrend.com/news/ev-hearse-mustang-mach-e-tesla/ | access-date=April 11, 2025 | archive-date=June 12, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240612012435/https://www.motortrend.com/news/ev-hearse-mustang-mach-e-tesla/ | url-status=live }}{{cite web | last=Trinkwon | first=Will | title=Tesla Model S-derived hearse revealed to cater for 'eco-funerals' | website=Autocar | date=August 20, 2020 | url=https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/tesla-model-s-derived-hearse-revealed-cater-eco-funerals | access-date=April 11, 2025 | archive-date=April 19, 2024 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240419163120/https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-cars/tesla-model-s-derived-hearse-revealed-cater-eco-funerals | url-status=live }}

{{clear}}

The Model S is the recipient of numerous awards, as listed in the table below:{{NoteTag|This list includes awards from prominent publishers only; lesser-known organizations may not be included.}}

{{NoteFoot}}

{{reflist|30em}}

{{Refbegin|30em}}

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• {{cite book | last1=Fuller | first1=Thomas F. | last2=Harb | first2=John N. | title=Electrochemical Engineering | publisher=John Wiley & Sons | date=2018 | isbn=978-1-1194-4658-3}}
• {{cite book | last1=Hayes | first1=John G. | last2=Goodarzi | first2=G. Abas | title=Electric Powertrain | publisher=John Wiley & Sons | date=2018| isbn=978-1-1190-6364-3}}
• {{cite book | last1=Johnston| first1=Chris| last2=Sobey| first2=Ed | title=The Arrival of the Electric Car | publisher=SAE International | date=2022 | isbn=978-1-4686-0501-3}}
• {{cite book | last1=Kumar | first1=Kundan | last2=Devanshu | first2=Ambrish | last3=Dwivedi | first3=Sanjeet K. | title=Electric Vehicle Propulsion Drives and Charging Systems | publisher=CRC Press | date=2024 | isbn=978-1-0400-3242-8}}
• {{cite book | last=Martenson | first=Chris | title=The Crash Course | publisher=John Wiley & Sons | date=2023 | isbn=978-1-3941-6887-3}}
• {{cite book | last=Vance | first=Ashlee | author-link=Ashlee Vance | title=Elon Musk: How the Billionaire CEO of SpaceX and Tesla is Shaping Our Future | publisher=Virgin Publishing | date=2016 | isbn=978-0-7535-5752-5}}
• {{cite book | last=Warner | first=John T. | title=The Handbook of Lithium-Ion Battery Pack Design | publisher=Elsevier Science | date=2015| isbn=978-0-1280-1668-8}}
• {{cite book | last=Warner | first=John T. | title=The Handbook of Lithium-Ion Battery Pack Design | publisher=Elsevier Science | date=2024| isbn=978-0-4431-3808-9}}
• {{cite book | last=Weber | first=Julian | title=Moving Times | publisher=Springer Nature | date=2022| isbn=978-3-6583-7733-5}}
• {{cite book | last1=Zohuri | first1=Bahman | last2=Rahmani | first2=Farhang Mossavar | last3=Behgounia | first3=Farahnaz | title=Knowledge is Power in Four Dimensions: Models to Forecast Future Paradigm | publisher=Elsevier | date=2022 | isbn=978-0-3239-5113-5}}

{{Refend}}

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