Overview

Released in Australia in August 2014, the Tesla Model S was a five-seat, electric-powered liftback. Manufactured in Fremont, California, the Model S was powered by a three-phase AC induction motor. The Model S range initially consisted of 60, 85 and P85 variants. All models, however, had a single speed fixed gear with a 9.73:1 reduction ratio.

The rear-wheel drive Model S 60, 70, 85 and P85 had the same AC induction motor, though the 60 kWh, 70 kWh and 85 kWh lithium-ion battery packs that provided different driving ranges and performance capabilities.

In July 2015, Model S 90, 90D and P90D models were announced with 90 kWh battery packs. Furthermore, a backwards-compatible battery pack upgrade was announced for the Model S 85 and 85D models which increased the output of their batteries to 90 kWh.

2015: Tesla Model S Dual Motor

In early 2015, Australian deliveries of all-wheel drive D (for dual motor) variants commenced. As such, the 60D, 70D, 85D and P85D variants had an additional motor driving the front wheels to provide all-wheel drive capability. While the 60D, 70D and 85D variants were fitted with a smaller rear motor for increased range, the P85D had the same rear motor as the P85 for increased performance.

Body and dimensions

The Tesla Model S had an aluminium chassis that was reinforced with high strength, boron steel. The battery charger for the Model S was integral to the vehicle with the charge port positioned behind the left rear tail-light.

The Model S was 4978 mm long, 1964 mm wide, 1435 mm tall and had a 2959 mm long wheelbase; kerb weight was 2108 kg, while the drag coefficient was 0.24 Cd. Cargo volume for the Model S was 745 litres, though this increased to 1645 litres when the rear seats were folded down. Furthermore, the front under-bonnet storage space (Tesla’s ‘frunk’) had a volume of 150 litres.

Steering and suspension

The Model S had electric power-assisted steering, double wishbone front suspension and independent multi-link rear suspension.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Model S included dual front airbags, front knee and pelvis airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.

In early 2015, standard features were extended to include autonomous emergency braking (AEB) and lane departure warning.

Euro NCAP testing

In Euro NCAP testing , the pre-October 2014 Tesla Model S received a five star safety rating which included an 82 per cent adult occupant protection rating and a 77 per cent child occupant protection rating. In the offset crash test, protection of the driver’s head, thighs and feet were rated as good, though chest and lower leg protection were rated as adequate (i.e. a slight risk of serious injury). In the side impact test, maximum points were awarded; in the more severe pole test, however, chest protection was rated as weak and abdomen protection as adequate.

Tesla’s Autopilot

From October 2014 production, the Model S was fitted with a forward radar, twelve long-range ultrasonic sensors (positioned to sense 4.9 metres around the car in every direction and at all speeds), a forward looking camera and a digitally controlled electric assist braking system. Based on this hardware, Tesla will issue future software releases to provide active safety features using digital control of motors, brakes and steering to avoid collisions. Specifically, the Model S will be able to

• Steer to stay within a lane;
• Change lanes in response to tapping the indicator stalk;
• Manage its speed by reading road signs; and,
• Use active, traffic-aware cruise control.

According to Tesla , it will take ‘several months’ for these ‘Autopilot’ features to be completed and uploaded to the cars.

Brakes

The Model S had 355 mm by 32 mm ventilated front brake discs and 365 mm by 28 mm ventilated rear discs.

Features

The Model S P85 was further equipped with Alcantara headlining and a carbon-fibre rear spoiler.

October 2014 update

The following updates were introduced in the Tesla Model S from October 2014 production:

• More comfortable seats;
• Taller headrests for better whiplash protection;
• Wider opening rear doors;
• Increased visor size and larger vanity mirror;
• Parcel shelf and front trunk cargo net fitted as standard;
• An air ioniser and carbon filter;
• Updated steering column control module; and,
• Updated Alcantara interior trim.

2015 update

In early 2015, standard features were extended to include satellite navigation. Furthermore, owners were provided with free access to Tesla’s supercharging network.

Ludicrous Mode

In July 2015, an optional ‘Ludicrous Mode’ for the Model S P90D was announced which required the following hardware upgrades:

• A pyro-actuated fuse which had its own electronics to monitor current and a lithium-ion battery; and,
• An inconel (rather than steel) main pack contractor.

As a result of these changes, maximum amperage could be increased from 1300 to 1500 amps, enabling the P90D to accelerate from rest to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 2.8 seconds (a ten per cent improvement over the standard P90D).

Related links

• Tesla Australia: Tesla Model S
• Wikipedia.org: Tesla Model S

Recalls: Tesla Model S

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Tesla Model S

Tesla Model S: seatbelt may not be connected to lap pre-tensioner

In November 2015, a recall was issued for Tesla Model S vehicles because the seatbelt in one of the front seats may not be properly connected to the outboard lap pre-tensioner. As a result, the seat belt may not able to properly restrain the occupant in the event of a collision, increasing the risk of injury (PRA 2015/15058).

2016 Tesla Model S: park brake may not release

In May 2017, a recall was issued for Tesla Model S vehicles that were manufactured from 22 February 2016 to 7 October 2016. In these vehicles, a faulty gear could prevent the parking brake from releasing. Furthermore, if the gear fractured prior to full parking brake engagement, the affected parking brake calliper may have less than the intended holding force. For the VINs of the recalled Tesla Model S vehicles, please see PRA 2017/16039.

2012-16 Tesla Model S: loss of power steering assistance

In April 2018, a recall was issued for Tesla Model S vehicles that were manufactured from 31 May 2012 to 9 April 2016. When exposed to high-corrosion environments, aluminium bolts which attached the power steering gear assist motor to the gear housing could corrode and weaken. If these bolts fractured, the power steering gear assist motor could move – this would cause the transmission belt to slip and cause power steering assistance to be reduced or lost. Reduced or lost power steering assistance would require greater steering effort, especially at low speeds, and this could increase the risk of a collision. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2018/16713.

2014-16 Tesla Model S: Takata airbag recall

In January 2019, recall campaign SB-19-20-001 was issued for Tesla Model S vehicles that were available for sale in Australia from 1 January 2014 to 31 December 2016. These vehicles had Takata airbags and, over time, propellant wafers inside the airbag could absorb moisture. In the event of airbag deployment, excessive pressure inside the metal airbag inflator housing could cause it to explode or rupture, such that metal fragments may be projected through the airbag and into the vehicle’s cabin. These metal fragments had the potential to cause serious injury or fatality. For the VINs of the recalled Tesla Model S vehicles, please see PRA 2019/17269.

Problems and faults: Tesla Model S

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Problems and faults: Tesla Model S

No troubleshooting information is currently available for the Tesla Model S.

Released in Australia in August 2014, the Tesla Model S was a five-seat, electric-powered liftback. Manufactured in Fremont, California, the Model S was powered by a three-Phase AC induction motor. The Model S range initially consisted of 60, 85 and P85 variants. All models, however, had single speed fixed gear with a 9.73:1 reduction ratio… Read full Tesla Roadster review

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Euro NCAP: 2014 Tesla Model S crash testing

In Euro NCAP testing, the pre-October 2014 Tesla Model S received a five star safety rating which included an 82 per cent adult occupant protection rating and a 77 per cent child occupant protection rating. Videos are provided with the permission of Euro NCAP.

Carbuyer: 2014 Tesla Model S review

Note

Please note these videos are applicable to vehicles as they are supplied to their respective markets. As such, the features, prices and performance of the vehicles in these videos may differ from those which are supplied in Australia.

Motor Trend: 2013 Tesla Model S

Car and Driver: 2013 Tesla Model S tested

Consumer Reports: 2013 Tesla Model S

Autocar: Tesla Model S vs Aston Martin Rapide S

Wired: How the Tesla Model S is made

AutoGuide.com: 2013 Tesla Model S Review

Drive.com.au: 2014 Tesla Model S P85+

Telegraph Cars: 2014 Tesla Model S – game changer?

Car Throttle: 2015 Tesla Model S review