This is a near 20% increase over the 2019 Model S 100D.
One way this was achieved is through weight savings.
All Model S Long Range Plus built since earlier this year will benefit from the new range.
It wasn’t so long ago when the principal arguments against electric vehicles were range and price. The latter remains an obstacle in many cases as, in Canada and before incentives, the least expensive models still hover around the $40,000 mark. The range/price quotient however continues to improve and Tesla and its 2020 Model S Long Range Plus are leading way with an EPA-estimated range of 402 miles.
This impressive number, which applies to Long Range Plus Model S built since the start of 2020, was achieved not by increasing battery capacity but by decreasing weight, drag, and more.
The specifics for weight savings are limited from Tesla but some elements touched on include lighter materials for the seats, in the battery packs, and drive units. About the drive units, the rear AC-induction motor now utilizes an electric oil pump that optimizes lubrication for reduced friction. New “Tempest” wheels and custom tires also reduce friction, or drag, thus further improving efficiency. Finally, a new drive feature, HOLD, maximizes regenerative braking by using the physical brakes.
Over the last four months alone, the Model S’ range has increased from 600 km to 647, or from 375 miles to 402. The next step will new batteries which we know Tesla is working on. For the time being, there truly no longer a reason to suffer from range anxiety with this car and Tesla’s ever-growing Supercharger Network.
2020 Tesla Model S | Photo: Tesla
