Tesla operates stores and service centers across Europe, Asia, and Australia and plans to open additional locations. In addition, the “Tesla Service Ranger” program sends mobile technicians to customers’ homes in remote areas. Read more about the Service Ranger program.
Model S Frequently Asked Questions
Right-Hand Drive Model S
How will I service my Model S?
Reservations
What is the difference between Model S and Model S Signature?
The first 500 right-hand drive Model S vehicles delivered will be Signatures. Similar to other ‘limited edition’ offerings, Model S Signature will come very well-equipped, potentially with colors and options not available for Model S. Model S Signature will come with the 300-mile (480-km) range battery pack. Reservation payments vary by country of use:
Model S
Model S Signature
Great Britain
£4,000
£30,000
Australia
$6,000 AUD
$40,000 AUD
Hong Kong
$39,000 HKD
$330,000 HKD
Is the reservation payment refundable?
The reservation payment is 100% refundable. All reservation holders receive a one-page reservation agreement, including refund details, during the reservation process.
Ownership and Pricing
When will features, options, and pricing be announced?
Options and pricing for Model S are in development and will be announced when finalized. Tesla will invite reservation holders to configure their Model S approximately three months before their car is produced.
What are the prices of the different battery pack options?
Three battery options are offered: 160- (255-km), 230- (370-km), or 300-mile (480-km) range. Model S comes standard with the 160-mile (255-km) range battery. The 230-mile (370-km) and 300-mile (480-km) range batteries will be optional upgrades and prices are not yet available.
May I delay production of my Model S?
Yes. You will be contacted by Tesla approximately three months before production of your vehicle to select your options. At that time, you will have a one-time right of deferral. This means, should your life circumstances dictate a delay or a desired option is yet not available, you may relinquish your reservation sequence number and defer to a later position.
Are financing and leasing available?
Yes. A full suite of payment options will be offered. Further details will be announced closer to launch.
Can I import a Model S into a market not supported by Tesla Motors?
Tesla vehicles are designed and built to meet the unique requirements of each market and are physically different country to country as required by law. Customers should reserve Model S in the market they intend to register and drive their vehicle. Exporting cars into different markets is not supported by Tesla Motors.
Development Plan and Production
When will Model S be available for a test drive?
Reservation holders will be invited to test drive in 2012.
When will Model S production begin?
Right-hand drive production is scheduled to begin in mid-2013.
How many Model S units will Tesla produce each year?
Tesla plans to produce 20,000 Model S units annually.
Performance
Has Model S been tested for crash safety?
Model S is engineered with the intent to achieve excellent safety ratings. Final safety data is not yet available.
How fast is Model S?
Model S accelerates from 0-60 mph (0-100 kph) in approximately 5.6 seconds. Model S has a top speed of approximately 125 mph (200 kph).
How does Model S perform in extreme temperatures?
Model S is engineered to perform in extreme hot and cold weather. The sophisticated Tesla battery management system uses re-circulating propylene glycol to either heat or cool the battery as necessary.
Is the Model S front, rear, or all wheel drive?
The Model S is a rear wheel drive vehicle. Tesla traction control technology provides excellent grip, even in low-traction conditions.
Range and the Battery
Do Tesla battery packs suffer from "memory effect?” Is it necessary to completely discharge the battery to maintain its capacity?
No. Tesla uses lithium ion cells, which do not suffer from memory effect.
If Model S is parked and not charging, will the battery lose its charge?
Loss of charge at rest is minimal. For example, Model S owners can park at the airport for extended vacations without plugging in.
How does accessory use (radio, climate control, headlights) affect driving range?
Accessory use does not have a dramatic impact on driving range. Exact range fluctuates based on vehicle speed, driving style, road conditions, and weather. Holding these factors constant, using higher consumption accessories like climate control will reduce range approximately five to ten percent. Read a broad discussion about range.
Will Model S use regenerative braking to recharge the battery?
Yes.
How many years will the battery last?
Based on testing, Tesla expects the battery to retain approximately 70% of its initial capacity after seven years or 100,000 miles (160,000 km).
How much does a battery replacement cost?
Given rapidly changing battery technology, it is impossible to accurately forecast the cost of future battery replacements.
How far can Model S travel on one charge?
Three battery options are offered: 160- (255-km), 230- (370-km), or 300-mile (480-km) range. Model S comes standard with the 160-mile (255-km)range battery. The 230-mile (370-km) and 300-mile (480-km) range batteries will be optional upgrades and prices are not yet available.
Features and Options
What options and features will be available?
We are finalizing the list of features and options. As production nears, Tesla will release exact specifications, options, and associated prices. Tesla expects the 17” infotainment touchscreen to be standard on every Model S. The panoramic glass roof and rear-facing child seats are planned optional upgrades.
I’m very tall – will I fit?
Yes. Model S is a premium, full-size sedan slightly larger than BMW 5 Series, Mercedes E-Class, or Audi A6. Tesla's unique powertrain packaging frees up space for passengers and cargo.
Approximately how much will it cost to insure Model S?
Model S is expected to have insurance premiums consistent with other cars in its class.
How does Model S seat seven people?
Model S seats five adults and two children. Model S features two front seats, a rear bench seat for three adults, and optional rear facing jump seats designed for two children. The jump seats will be similar to those available in some station wagons.
Will Model S fit in my garage?
Model S has approximately the following dimensions:
Overall length
16’4" (4973 mm)
Overall height
4’8" (1426 mm)
Overall width with mirrors
7’2" (2189 mm)
Ground Clearance
4.46" (113 mm)
Charging
How does Model S charge?
Model S can be charged by plugging into any regular wall outlet. Higher amperage 200 volt and 230 volt outlets charge Model S more quickly.
What charging infrastructure will I need in my home?
Model S plugs into any standard outlet. No additional infrastructure is needed.
How long does it take to recharge Model S?
Charging times are based on battery size and the combined voltage and amperage of the power source. A high-amperage 200 volt or 230 volt outlet can charge Model S from empty to full overnight. Model S is capable of recharging in 45 minutes using a fast charging station.
When should I plan to charge my Model S?
To maintain optimum driving utility and long-term battery health, Tesla recommends plugging your Model S in each night or when convenient.
Is it possible to install solar panels on the hood to increase range?
Model S is not currently designed to incorporate the use of solar panels.
How can I charge my Model S using solar power?
The best way to charge Model S using solar power is to install a solar panel system on your home. When planning the system, you can estimate your daily vehicle power consumption with the following equation.
Assume average energy usage per mile is approximately 300Wh/mile (188Wh/km)(based on actual Roadster driving data). Multiply 300Wh/mile (188Wh/km) by your daily driving distance to estimate your daily vehicle energy consumption. A trusted local solar installer can use this figure to develop and install a system to support your total daily energy demand.
