Elon Musk announced new 100 kWh variants for the Tesla Model S and Model X that substantially boost the per-charge range and performance. The gains come directly as the result of a new battery pack that uses the same basic chemistry but features an enhanced configuration. According to Musk, the 2017 Model S P100D with Ludicrous mode will be the fastest-accelerating true production car ever built, capable of reaching 60 mph in a projected 2.5 seconds compared to 2.8 ticks for a similar-spec P90D and needing just an additional 0.2 seconds to reach 100 mph. Although the ultra-exotic Ferrari LaFerrari and Porsche 918 Spyder are marginally quicker, neither is readily available as the Model S P100D since the build-out for both is over.
Breaking the 300-mile range barrier
Tesla’s new larger and more sophisticated battery pack also will allow the dual-motor Model S P100D to travel an estimated 315 miles on a single charge – 45 more than the current P90D can manage and 19 more than a standard 90D model — and make it the first real-world EV to exceed the 300-mile bogey. Tesla also announced the new Model X P100D fitted with this new battery pack will see its 0-60 mph sprint drop to just 2.9 seconds with the optional Ludicrous mode while elevating the estimated range of the firm’s sleek 7-passemger SUV crossover to an impressive 289 miles on the EPA cycle.
According to Musk, production complexities initially will limit the new 100kWh battery packs to Tesla’s top-end Performance models. The new Tesla Model S P100D with Ludicrous mode will start at $134,500 and the Ludicrous-spec Tesla Model X P100D will open at $135,500 – both prices before any applicable federal, state or local incentives. Order books are now open, and deliveries expected sometime in September. Customers who have ordered a P90D with Ludicrous model but not yet taken delivery can upgrade to the new battery pack for an additional $10,000 while current P90D owners can have a direct swap-out performed for $20,000 to help defray the cost of recycling the existing 90kWh battery. As a final footnote, Tesla said it would begin fitting its Premium Seats already used in the Model X to all Performance-build Model S trims.
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