Driving Tesla’s Model S, a most en-lightning experience

Our premium Model S with the P85 option has an 85 kWh battery pack and produces 310 kW (416 hp) of power and 443 ft lb of torque – Tesla’s top of the line performance package. This power rating puts the Model S comfortably in the same league as comparable Euro and American performance sedans. But what’s really important in this conversation is the prominence of electric torque and what it delivers in real world applications.

Gas powered engines produce their output by throwing about numerous pistons, crank rods, gears, pushrods and valves. Some vehicles can reach peak torque as early as 2500 rpm, or lower. With electric drive systems this torque is available instantaneously.

In the case of the Model S, this means 443 lb.ft of torque from 0 to 5100 rpm, giving the driver torque aplenty from the get go.

In driving the Model S out and about on the windy, rising roads of the rolling hills behind Tesla’s headquarters, the car’s instantaneous torque not dominates the conversation. Without the need to keep revs high to maintain optimal power like a gas powered sedan, the P85 can accelerate out of corners very much like an electric go-kart … a rather large electric go-kart mind you. Come off power for braking, which again the S does rather well, and the car handles like a much smaller performance coupe. Yes you notice the 4,700 lbs hanging about under your arse, but because of the battery’s location and consequent low center of gravity, you don’t feel the body roll as you do in similar gas-engined sedans.

Steering is of a variable ratio, speed sensitive configuration, which provides excellent wheel feedback under performance or cruising scenarios. The system responded well to driving inputs on the switchbacks outside Palo Alto and straight line feedback was also nicely dialed in, as was feel and assistance when parking.

The ride is another surprising aspect of the Model S I didn’t expect. The Model S is even quieter in the cabin than you expect, with very little road noise making its way in. The ride, thanks to Tesla’s advanced air suspension was comfortable when cruising, but became tight and responsive when called for. The air suspension can be adjusted via the display screen to clear speed bumps but also lowers itself as the car accelerates to give it a more dynamic stance, with better high speed stability and improved cornering abilities. Oh, and gear changes aren’t an issue, becuase the car only has only one gear.

Inside the beautifully styled Model S, which I have to say should receive bonus points for surpassing design expectations for an electric, is a modernly minimalistic interior. The swooping door trim plays off exterior design elements while head, leg and cabin space is spacious thanks to the lack of engine intruding into the firewall or transmission hump impeding into the centee console area. Seating is sportingly comfortable up front with more than enough room for three adults in the back.