Tesla’s Roadster, their Tesla electric car flagship, first debuted in 2008 and caused a splash in the car scene. The Roadster model was later followed by the Model S in 2012-2013. It earned the title of Motor Trend Car of the Year. There are several key aspects that have made this electric car succeed where others have failed. Among them are the cars performance power, eco-friendliness, and cost to operate.

As the world works to lower its environmental footprint, the Tesla electric car company, and companies like it, are beginning to provide real options for those wishing to ditch conventional fossil fuels.

Tesla Electric Car Model S Overview

The Tesla Model S is a luxury, full-size, 5-door, all electric, lift back car that was first introduced in 2012. From the factory, the vehicle gets a 4-year,50,000-milee warranty to ensure coverage. What’s more, it holds the title of “the fastest accelerating car in production” (in 2016), also being the first electric car to receive this title.

The car itself is manufactured in Fremont, California at the Tesla Factory’s 5.4 million square foot facility. The vehicle has several options when purchasing, including battery size, motor size, and included equipment. Currently, the Tesla electric car company is working on developing an autopilot system that is ahead of its competitor’s similar product.

Tesla Electric Car Model S Technical Specs

The Model S Performance model has a rear mounted motor that has the ability to output 416hp and 443 ft. lb. The base model uses a 362hp and 325 ft. lb. motor. The car was rated by the EPA to have an official range of 265 miles when equipped with an 85 kWh battery back. The top speed of the performance model is 155mph, and it is able to accelerate from 0 to 60mph in 2.8 seconds. The model is available in ranges from 40kWh ($59,900) to 100 kWh ($134,500). Those who wish can also purchase it as an all-wheel drive or rear wheel drive.

In addition to power and speed, the Model S has also features a 5-star safety rating by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

PROs and CONs of the Tesla Electric Car

PROS

Cheaper to operate after purchase

Once the initial purchase of a Tesla or other electric vehicle is made, the cost to continue to operate is cheaper than combustion powered vehicle. On a cost per mile basis, electric cars are typically ¼ of the cost of a gasoline-powered vehicle.

Quiet Operation

The quality of the ride and low cabin noise are features that one needs to experience to appreciate. A ride in an electric car is smooth and makes other modes of transportation feel archaic.

Environmentally Friendly

The environmental footprint of electric cars is lower than their conventional gasoline-powered counterparts. More efficient forms of electricity, such as wind and solar power, are being developed. Consequently, the footprint of electric vehicles will continue to become even smaller as electricity will be more eco-friendly to produce.

Fast

The electric set up of the vehicle allows for immediate delivery of power to the wheels. This makes the vehicle accelerate notably faster than conventional vehicles. Currently, the Tesla electric car Model S is the fastest 0-60 car in production.

CONS

Higher upfront costs vs. traditionally vehicles

Currently, electric cars are more expensive than comparative small to mid-sized gas-powered vehicles. Tesla’s base model for example, will cost the consumer $59,000. Customers can purchase comparable gas-powered vehicles for half the cost in some cases.

Long refueling time

Charging the electric car is as simple as plugging it in. However, the recharge times are much longer than it would take to fill a vehicle with conventional fuel. One needs to charge a typical electric car for 1 hour per 25 miles of expected driving.

Limited range

The good news is, Tesla outperforms most other electric models in this category with a range of 265 miles (when you compare it to the typical 80-100 miles). Nonetheless, there is still a good deal of anxiety that comes along with a limited range and limited charging stations available.

Things to Think about Before Buying an Electric Car

Consumers should be aware that electric cars have a much shorter range than conventional vehicles, as well as a much more limited amount of options to “re-fuel”. They do, however, require less maintenance over time.

If maintaining a smaller footprint is important to you, considering an electric car for your everyday travel has become a viable option.In the long run, an electric car will likely save you money when it comes to maintenance and fuel costs. That is if you are able to plan your recharges well and can get by on the shorter range.

The Tesla electric car Model S has presented the car world with a high performance and aesthetically pleasing option within the electric car market. From its top of the line acceleration to its comparatively long driving range, consumers now have a competitive option. Have you had any experience with electrical vehicles? Do you think you would be able to manage your travel on a limited range with few options to recharge on the road? After weighing the pros and cons, what decision would you make?

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