Electric car maker Tesla claims its S P100D is the third fastest accelerating production car ever produced, with a 0-60 mph (100kph ) time of 2.5 seconds, after it introduced a new larger battery.
The 100kWh battery also increases range to an estimated 315 miles (on the EPA cycle ) on a single charge, making it the first to go beyond 613km on the EU cycle, and the longest range production electric vehicle, according to Tesla.
It contrasted the two faster accelerating vehicles, the LaFerrari and the Porsche 918 Spyder, with its vehicle. However, both the LaFerrari and the Porsche 918 Spyder were limited run, million dollar vehicles and cannot be bought new. While those cars are small two seaters with very little luggage space, the pure electric, all-wheel drive Model S P100D has four doors, seats up to five adults plus two children and has exceptional cargo capacity.
The larger battery pack is also available on the Model X, enabling it to accelerate to 60mph in 2.9 seconds and travel up to 289 miles on a single charge. Model X is an SUV that can seat up to seven adults.
Existing P90D owners can upgrade to a 100kWh pack, but it will cost $20,000, as the used 90kWh pack will have to be recycled.
The P100D costs more than $120,000, and Tesla says every sale helps to fund development of the smaller and much more affordable Tesla Model 3.
