Tesla Model S – Automobiles Review

Why Tesla Model S P100D is the fastest car ever produced? Yes, it is!

Ludicrous Mode helps the car make it to the sacred 2.5 seconds time

I’m sure you won’t believe that a fully electric car could be the fastest one in the world. But it is! I mean 2.5 seconds time for the 0-60 mph sprint is something, right? Yes, the Model S P100D driven in its Ludicrous mode. You might say that there are cars like the LaFerrari and the Porsche 918 Spyder, but first – they weren’t mass produce vehicles, and secondly – their price is at least a million. To sum up, the bitter truth for many is that this Tesla is actually the first globally produced vehicle, which achieves the 2.5 seconds time.

To make you even more furious (if you are on the other side, because I’m on Tesla’s: in fact, if I had a Tesla, I’d be probably writing this article from its cabin), there is another major difference. In contrast to the first two hypercars that are two seaters, have very little luggage space (and space in general) and cannot be bought new, the Model S P100D AWD has four doors, can accommodate up to 5 adults and 2 children and is also perfect for a lot of cargo.

Not to mention that the Tesla car is also “the longest range production electric vehicle by far” with 315 miles on the EPA cycle and 613 km on the EU cycle. This is due to the improved with 100 kWh battery that feeds the vehicle with power. Elon Musk, has also featured the same battery in the popular Model X SUV, making it world’s quickest SUV with acceleration time of 2.9 seconds and with 289 miles EPA and 542 km EU traveled on a single charge.

Model S and Model X also score the highest ratings at NHTSA. Both have access to the Tesla Supercharger network for the freedom to travel long distance for free. What is more, Tesla is promising to improve over time with free over the air upgrades.

Nevertheless, there’s one drawback about these vehicles: they seem to be quite expensive. Those customers who have ordered a P90D Ludicrous, but not taken delivery, can upgrade to the 100 kWh pack for $10,000. Sadly, those with the existing P90D Ludicrous can also upgrade, but for $20,000, as their used 90 kWh pack will have to be recycled. However, every sale in Tesla helps pay for the smaller Model 3 that will be much more affordable.

Model S P100D with Ludicrous mode specifications:

Range: 315 miles (EPA Estimate) / 613 km (NEDC Estimate)
0-60 mph acceleration: 2.5 seconds
0-100 km/h acceleration: 2.7 seconds
Price: starts at $134,500

Model X P100D with Ludicrous mode specifications:

Range: 289 miles (EPA Estimate) / 542 km (NEDC Estimate)
0-60 mph acceleration: 2.9 seconds
0-100 km/h acceleration: 3.1 seconds
Price: starts at $135,500

Source: Tesla

August 25, 2016

Watch the restyled Tesla Model S roll on the streets of Miami [w/video]

Larte Design Elizabeta tuning kit makes Tesla’s Model S even more brilliant!

Tesla Model S is Elon Musk’s calling card, and is one of those creations of technology which will continue to be praised for a long time. The P90D has been recently “facelifted” adding more charms and goodies to what was initially brilliant. This fact however, does not stop any tuner who wants to bring out more from a particular model. An example is Larte Design, a Russian tuning company, which has lately become very popular with its luxury custom packs.

The experts are obviously praised in the USA (Miami in particular) and this video proves it. It shows how a beautiful white example of the Model S rolls on the streets of city with its unique styling cues and charming presence.

More importantly, what makes the tuning kit different are the materials. The high-end-body-kit is made with basalt fiber with the help of vacuum injection technology. The benefits: it is stronger and lighter than the conventional carbon-fiber. For those who like the traditional carbon, Larte Design is also offering parts made from that material.

Larte Design Tesla Model S blue variant

What changes to the exterior do we see looking at the video below and the images in the gallery? The front and rear bumpers are undoubtedly new, and there are additional trim details. The latter include add-ons for the fender flares and side sills, a trunk lid pad and a lightning-like inlay in the radiator grille. There is also a front lip spoiler and inserts for the rear bumper’s diffuser.

Lastly, we should mention that the basalt fiber version of the Elizabeta tuning kit weighs just 13kg and this is for the front and rear bumpers altogether. Enjoy the video! It also brings summer vibes, doesn’t it?

httpv://youtu.be/HPTxgbIsmpY

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Larte Design

June 20, 2016

Tesla Model S Significantly Updated! Comes Out with New Face

Tesla Model S Front View The new face of the electric Tesla Model S has been finally revealed and it looks better than ever. Still, the car is instantly recognizable as a Tesla. It seems however, that the new design follows the approach of the Model 3 and the Model X, thus adopting new front fascia with slightly slender grille flanked by redesigned full LED adaptive headlights. Besides styling, they also boost safety: 14 three-position LED dynamic turning lights improve visibility at night, especially on winding roads.

But not only was the exterior of the EV improved, so is everything else. For instance performance and safety have been also refined. Offering unparalleled performance for an electric vehicle, Model S accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in as little as 2.8 seconds! In addition, the car also comes with the recently introduced Autopilot capabilities designed to make the highway driving experience better.

Tesla Model S Autopilot

Speaking of the Autopilot, it allows Model S to steer within a lane, change lanes with the simple tap of a turn signal, and manages speed by using traffic-aware cruise control. It also manages the digital control of motors, brakes, and steering, thus avoiding collisions from the front and sides.

Another benefit of this feature is that it allows the car to scan for a parking space and parallel park on command. There is also a new Summon feature, which lets the driver “call” their car from the phone so it can literally come and greet them at the front door in the morning.

Tesla Model S Interior

Furthermore, the luxurious interior of the EV, is still built around the driver. There are several new options including heated and ventilated front seats and a medical-grade HEPA air filter. There are two brand new wood trim options for the cabin, including the Dark Ash and Figured Ash.

The “gem” of the interior is the new 17 inch touchscreen. It is angled toward the driver for enhanced convenience and features day and night modes for better visibility. The touchscreen actually controls most of the car’s functions. For instance the driver can open the all glass panoramic roof, manage the climate control, changing the radio within a swipe or a touch. Another intricate detail is that the Model S periodically receives over the air software updates and this is how it adds new features and refreshes the touchscreen look and feel.

A lot of attention has been paid to the safety of this car. Much of it is owed to the unique electric drivetrain, positioned beneath car’s aluminum occupant cell in its own subframe. This lowers the car’s center of gravity, and in turn enhances the handling and minimizes rollover risk. In case of side impacts, they are met by aluminum pillars reinforced with steel rails. There are also eight airbags, which protect front and rear occupants, while the high voltage power source is being automatically disconnected.

Tesla Model S Facelift will soon go into production and will have a starting price of $71,500 USD.

Here are the details about the performance of the car:

Model Variant:	P90D Performance AWD	90DAWD	70DAWD
Acceleration	2.8 seconds 0-60 mph (Ludicrous); 3.1 seconds 0-60 mph	4.2 seconds 0-60 mph	5.2 seconds 0.60 mph
Torque	713 lb-ft	485 lb-ft	387 lb-ft
Top Speed	155 mph	155 mph	140 mph
Motor Power	503 hp rear;259 hp front; 532 hp (Ludicrous)	259 hp front and rear	259 hp front and rear
Range	270 miles (EPA)	294 miles (EPA)	240 miles (EPA)

Source: Tesla

April 13, 2016

Tesla Model S Elizabeta is the Next Great Thing in LARTE Design’s Garage

Larte Design Tesla Model S Elizabeta Front View LARTE Design’s Tesla S Elizabeta is a project we have seen so far… but not in the form we are going to present it now. We have just received the latest photoshoot of the famous electric vehicle, which was additionally customized by the Russian-based tuner. You can enjoy the images from the so called “industrial” photoshoot in our gallery below.

And if we got your interest, here are the details about this special project. The current Elizabeta version by LARTE Design features amazing package, which comprises of unique front and rear bumpers. In addition, after further refinement of some details, the car has become more attractive. For instance, such parts are the fog lamps, which are no longer hidden behind the body parts.

There are three different materials that the kit can be made of and these include: composite material, composite material and additional carbon fiber details, and stronger and lightweight basalt fibers and carbon fiber details.

Larte Design Tesla Model S Elizabeta Side View

Depending on what material one chooses, there can be different changes included in the exterior. The carbon fiber details however are the following: attachments for fender flares and side sills, a trunk lid pad and a lightning-like inlay in the radiator grille, and a front lip spoiler and inserts for the rear bumper’s diffuser.

Elizabeta is a project which aims at creating a brand new visual appearance for the electric Model S. The designers at LARTE Design have managed to create lightning-like clear lines to highlight the sporty nature of the EV. In other words the custom kit of this car strives to deliver an image that symbolizes the art of “transformation, passion for self-expression and individuality”.

Source: Larte Design

April 8, 2016

Vilner and their Mind-Blowing Tesla Model S [Before & After]

Vilner Tesla Model S Exterior It was about time that the extremely professional tuning specialists at Vilner got their hands on vehicles like the Model S. The electric vehicle is one of the most coveted cars on the planet and one that can not be seen in our everyday life. And so are Vilner tunings. So wasn’t it just perfect for Vilner to finally customize a Model S? The answer is absolutely positive! Just see the results in the before an after pictures to make sure of that.

The work on the car includes smooth but valuable changes throughout the exterior and prominent ones inside. And by the way, they perfectly blend with Tesla’s classic lines, flowing forms and design scheme, making it look like a more expensive trim level.

Carbon Infused Exterior

Vilner Tesla Model S Grille

Some of the key changes have been made onto the front of the Model S, thus making it look more in harmony with its rear end. Precisely, the atelier has substituted the plastic parts in black piano varnish up front with elements made entirely from carbon composite.

To add even more harmony, Vilner equipped the Tesla with brand new carbon rearview mirrors, while at the same time changing the stock wheels with 19-inch alloys, which round out the athletic visual stance of the Model S.

Red Passion Inside

Vilner Tesla Model S Interior

For the cabin, the tuner decided to count on the contrast, thus using a color design scheme in black and red. To go into details, the bright ceiling was wrapped in black Alcantara, which also covers the columns. The contrast is made via the bare crossbar of the glass roof, which is dressed in red Alcantara.

The passionate red hue was also a main choice for the sun visors, the visor over the instrument display and the bottom of the V on the steering wheel. But the most prominent use of red is seen on the seats and door panels. Decorative stitching on both is just a prerequisite.

There is even a functional improvement here: the extension of the front armrest. Since the standard one is not the best design idea, Vilner decided to stretch its horizontal surface with 12 cm. At last, the final touches are the black Alcantara on the seats and the royal burgundy seat belts. The bag made by the company is a stylish compliment that has been created with the same materials used for the making of car’s new upholstery. And isn’t this the perfect way to round out any tuning project, don’t you think?

Source: Vilner

November 5, 2015

Tesla Version 7.0: Next Step for Brand’s Autopilot

Tesla Version 7.0 Software Tesla has been equipping its Model S with hardware to allow introduction of self-driving technology and this has been happening from October last year. This important step in the development of the brand expresses its commitment to refining that enable self-driving capability.

Precisely, the self-driving technology comprises of forward radar, a forward-looking camera, high-precision digitally-controlled electric assist braking system and 12 long-range ultrasonic sensors. The sensors are mounted in such way that they can sense 16 feet around the car in every direction and at all speeds.

Tesla Version 7.0 software has been just released, allowing the aforementioned tools to deliver a range of active safety and convenience features. In addition, they all work in conjunction with the automated driving capabilities, which are known to Model S drivers.

More About the new Autopilot System

Tesla’s autopilot involving four different feedback modules: camera, radar, ultrasonics, and GPS. They mutually reinforce each other and at the same time offer realtime data feedback from the Tesla fleet. Why is this necessary? Simply because it ensures that the system is continually learning and improving upon itself.

The autopilot allows Model S these several action: to steer within a lane, to change lanes with the simple tap of a turn signal, and to manage speed by using active and traffic-aware cruise control. The motors, brakes, and steering are digitally controlled, thus helping the car avoid collisions from the front and sides, and wandering off the road.

In addition, all features in Version 7.0 allow scanning for parking spaces and alerting in case there is available one. Parallel parking happens on command.

Furthermore, Tesla says that the autopilot functions like the systems that airplane pilots use when conditions are clear. The driver is still responsible for the car and has control over it, but is assisted by the autopilot in any case scenario. In other words, Tesla Version 7.0 software is the next step for Tesla Autopilot.

Source: Tesla

October 16, 2015

TeslaVets by SS Customs Receives One-Off Photoshoot

This project is rather an old one, but the reason for our attention is the latest photoshoot it received. SS Customs has worked together with Richard Le Photography & Design to achieve these stunning pictures. If you do remember the car well, then you should also know that it comes to recognize the all the work Tesla does with US armed forces. Even more, the customization specialists also say that working with a company like Tesla on this creative project is dream come true.

So, #TeslaVets is based on the Model S – the most famous electric automobile. As you can see it carries specific visuals, which has been achieved in house but with some help from Tesla. The reason for this collaboration was Veterans Day honoring (11th of November)and this car is the way both companies say “Thank you”.

From what we know, the car is dressed in a special military Camo vinyl wrap, which was hand cut and then applied by hand. This cool appearance was then emphasized by the multispoke green powder coated green 21 inch Model S wheels.

In addition, we also see Yakima roof basket on whispbars with full Armed Forces regalia. We can’t skip the yellow tinted headlights, which are visible here very well, as well as the typical military equipment mounted on the custom-made roof rack.

And don’t forget to see the photos in the gallery below!

Source: SS Customs via Facebook

May 22, 2015

Tesla Model S by Larte Design Gets Upgraded to 900 hp

It is hard to forget the spectacular lava-infused Tesla Model S by Larte Design, isn’t it? The car was revealed two weeks ago at the Top Marques Monaco and caused a big furor. And if you think that there is nothing new going on around this project then you are definitely wrong. The car is getting a performance upgrade, which will make it even more powerful.

Named Elizabeta and colored in fiery red, this Model S is now getting an exuberating white version, which is currently in preparation at company’s division in California. It will be extremely hot variant of the car, because of its spectacular 900hp capability. In comparison, the red Elizabeta produces “only” 700 hp.

What is more, this will not only raise the performance of the car with 29 percent but will also show any higher energy consumption, meaning that it will have similar reach as the production variant. Furthermore, this version of the Elizabeta will also feature lightweight front and rear bumpers made of basalt fibers just like its sibling.

To remind you, Larte Desin’s bodywork weighs just 13kg altogether, not only due to the aforementioned bumpers, but also because of the carbon fiber elements included in the front bumper, wheel arches, side skirts, trunk lid and the rear diffuser insert.

And for those who really like the noisy sound of a petrol engine, the tuner has prepared a sound module, which can acoustically mimic car’s acceleration. Oh, and have you noticed the revised interior as well?

Source: Larte Design

April 30, 2015

Take a Look at this Lava-Infused Tesla Model S

Larte Design has finally revealed its one-off Tesla Model S at the Top Marques Monaco. There were several teasers before this big event, which gradually delivered hints about the special car. Even the sketch they released two days ago showed that the design of the vehicle will speak for itself. And so it does. Just take a look at the astounding pictures in the gallery below.

There are a lot of details that capture the attention. Such are the new more muscular front bumper and fender vents, the revised grille that is the first thing to see, the corresponding rear bumper and spoilers.

As we already know that these components were made of an innovative material called basalt fiber. It is made from natural lava rock and it is a very strong competition to the popular carbon fiber due to its great characteristics.

First of all it is very light in weight. In fact, the entire kit weighs only 13 kg. It is said that this material is also very tough and durable. Furthermore, the designers made the kit with lightning-like sharp lines to emphasize even further sporty nature of this superb electric vehicle.

The other cool thing about this Tesla is the new driving sound that mimics a real engine. Although there aren’t any pictures, the interior of the Model S has been also redesigned. At last, we should also note those huge multi-spoke forged wheels.

Source: LARTE Design

April 17, 2015

Larte Design is Drawing Your Attention with a Sketch of Basalt-Made Tesla

Larte Design Tesla Model S Sketch We are very impatient to finally see Larte Design Tesla Model S when it debuts tomorrow at the Top Marques Monaco. The reason for this is that we have just received a sketch of the car, which looks breath-taking. The other reason is that this Model S will have a body work made from basalt fibers, which will save a lot of weight. So, this is the first, official and only sketch of the Tesla that you can find on the Internet, since there are a lot of speculations about it and even fake photos.

As you can see, the design studio has sketched lightning-like sharp lines to highlight the sporty stance of this electric vehicle. The red exterior color also strengthens this impression. As mentioned, the bodywork will be made of the innovative material, basalt fiber, which is actually produced from natural lava rock.

Can you imagine that this material can even proudly compete with the carbon fiber? Just mind that the whole bumper set of this Tesla weighs only 13kg. And this includes the accessories!

All in all, from what we see from the sketch, this car will look astounding. And if you are anywhere near Monaco, then you should definitely go and take a look on it. So what’s left, is to witness the car debuting tomorrow and this is when a lot of question will be answered. Stay tuned!

Source: Larte Design

April 15, 2015

Lava-made LARTE Tesla Model S to Debut in Monaco

Larte Design Tesla Model S Teaser We are eagerly waiting to see Larte Design’s Tesla Model S, when it debuts at the Top Marques Monaco on 16^th of April. The reason for this is that it will have a body work, which is not made from polyurethane or carbon, but from basalt fibers. Well, actually the front and rear aprons will be made of this material and in fact, this contributes for the weight of this kit to be only 13kg.

What does basalt fibers precisely mean? First, it means that they are made of material that is produced from volcanic rock, and some of it is actually millions of years old. Secondly, high smelting temperatures are required for its melting. This however does not impact its good total energy footprint. Thirdly, the result is that the basalt is also ecologically-viable, which resonates perfectly with the spirit of the Tesla.

The volcanic material has other good characteristics. For instance, its pure fibers’ high application temperature is between -269 and +650°. This makes it strength-to-weight ratio really great and perfectly suitable for the parts like the bumpers or spoilers. It makes them not only lighter but also stronger.

Compared to the conventional glass fibers, the basalt fibers are less acid-, base- and salt-resistant. In addition, the lava-derived material has a higher compression and shear strength, it has good price and this makes its future really bright. So what’s left is to see the car debuting in a week from now. This is when a lot of question will be answered.

Source: Larte Design

April 8, 2015

Larte Design Invites us to Solve the Enigma

At the Top Marques Monaco the Russian tuning company Larte Design will reveal its Enigma. We are speaking about the recently teased Tesla Model S which will also be called with the synonym of “riddle”. It is inspired by both Nikola Tesla who still gives rise to many puzzles, and by the car that is the perfect combination of power and eco-friendliness.

With this project the tuner aims to give a new vision of the EV. Judging by the teasers it is obvious that this vehicle will pay tribute to the Master of Lightning. The sharp lines of the car seem to be even sharper and this in turn emphasizes its sporty nature.

Larte Design says that inside the car will be fitted with various luxury features but does not continue with any other details. Large forged wheels accompanied by acoustical element are what will draw the attention. The sound will come from integrated electronic sound module that will also have another purpose: to show-off the 700 hp capability of the electric car.

It was also revealed that the tuning kit will be made of light and strong composite material. Most probably it will be a carbon fiber, but there are rumors for a basalt-fiber reinforced plastic, too. If you wonder about the latter, well it is generated from lava rock and is usually utilized in bullet-proof vests of space technology.

The big reveal of Larte Design Tesla Model S Enigma will happen on 16^th of April at Top Marques Monaco.

Source: Larte Design

March 11, 2015

Tag: Tesla Model S

Ludicrous Mode helps the car make it to the sacred 2.5 seconds time

Model S P100D with Ludicrous mode specifications:

Model X P100D with Ludicrous mode specifications:

Larte Design Elizabeta tuning kit makes Tesla’s Model S even more brilliant!

Carbon Infused Exterior

Red Passion Inside

More About the new Autopilot System