For more than a century, electric vehicles were typically regarded as impractical, slow, and limited in range compared to gasoline-powered vehicles. However, Tesla’s Model S in 2012 changed the perception of electric vehicles by proving their capabilities and demonstrating that they could outperform gasoline-powered automobiles. The Model S established not only the viability of electric vehicles but also their superior performance.
The Tesla Model S, which debuted in 2012, was a game-changing electric vehicle with a stunning look, unmatched range, and supercar-like performance, as well as fast and efficient charging infrastructure.
Distinctive features of the Tesla Model S
The Tesla Model S revolutionized the automotive industry with its long-range lithium-ion batteries, allowing for distances over 300 miles. It also introduced a supercharger network, allowing drivers to recharge 80% of their battery in 30 minutes.
The Model S’s P100D Ludicrous Mode, capable of 0-60 mph in just 2.3 seconds, set a new standard in production cars. The Model S’s minimalist, high-tech interior featured a massive 17-inch touchscreen, setting a trend in modern car interiors.
Tesla also pioneered remote software updates, allowing cars to receive new features and performance improvements without visiting a dealership. The Model S also introduced Tesla’s Autopilot system, enabling semi-autonomous driving and pushing the industry towards self-driving technology.
Evolution of the Tesla S over the years
2012
The 2012 Tesla Model S was an electric sedan with a liftback design, over-the-air update capability, a 17-inch touchscreen, and 26.3 cubic feet of cargo space. It was available in four trim levels with electric motors, lithium-ion battery packs, and options like a panoramic sunroof.
2013-2015
In 2013, Tesla discontinued Signature trims and the 40-kWh battery pack, leaving only base and Performance trims. In 2014, the Model S’s trim level structure was reconfigured, adding a dual-motor powertrain and modifying the suspension’s automatic height adjustment feature. Tesla introduced its Autopilot system, enabling semi-autonomous driving and parking. The entry-level 60 trim was discontinued in 2015, replaced by a dual-motor 70 model with a 70-kWh battery pack, 380 horsepower, and 265 miles of range. The P85D model had 691 horsepower and 253 miles of range.
2016-2020
In 2016, Tesla updated the Model S with exterior styling and Autopilot 2 (AP2), offering six versions with different powertrain capacities and ranges. Options included Smart Air Suspension, leather seating, and a larger 90-kWh battery pack.
In 2017, Tesla introduced the P100D electric car, the first to break 300 miles with an EPA-estimated range of 315 miles. The P100D became the fastest-accelerating production car of the time, reaching 0-60 mph in 2.5 seconds.
In 2018, the 90 and “75” were dropped, leaving the 75D, 100D, and P100D models. In 2019, Tesla revised the Model S lineup, reducing its nomenclature and offering increased range.
In 2020, the Long-Range Plus model was introduced, with 402 miles of range due to an upgraded front motor.
2021-2023
The Tesla Model S was updated for 2021, featuring a new trim level lineup, updated powertrain, touchscreen, interior design, and exterior refresh. Long-Range models have a 670-horsepower dual-motor electric powertrain, while Plaid models have a tri-motor electric powertrain.
In 2023, Tesla introduced several changes, including the option to equip a standard steering wheel and a Standard-Range model with a range of 405 miles. The 2024 and 2025 model years were quiet for the Model S, with no significant changes to the lineup.
The world is gravitating towards a more electric future, and the Tesla Model S will continue to be known as the vehicle that paved the way for all electric cars to come alive.
