Tesla – Automobiles Review

MANHART TM3 510 Tesla Model 3

The market share of electric cars has been growing unstoppably for years and new model series from all manufacturers are being launched almost incessantly. Tesla is one of the absolute pioneers in the field of electric vehicles. With the Model 3, Elon Musk’s vehicle brand is celebrating impressive sales successes. Among petrolheads, however, electric cars still have a hard time, being considered unemotional and impossible to tune. We at MANHART Performance now prove that this is a misconception.

With the TM3 510, we now present our refined interpretation of the mid-range electric car from the USA. As usual, the three-digit number in the designation gives an indication of the vehicle’s performance: to be precise, the drive of the hatchback model generates a total output of 377 kW, or 513 hp. However, for once this impressive output is not due to a power increase on our part, but is the standard value, just like the 660 Nm. The TM3 510 is based on the top Model 3 Performance version with two powerful electric motors. An 82 kWh lithium-ion battery is on board as the power storage unit.

Meanwhile, we have made significant visual improvements: Thanks to a suspension optimisation including MANHART lowering springs by H&R, the Tesla ducks significantly closer to the asphalt. In addition, large-format new wheels sit under the wings: these are MANHART Barracuda rims in 9×21 inch with a Platinum Grey finish. Alternatively, the rim colour can be individually configured. The tyres measure 235/30R21. A carbon front spoiler gives the body of the TM3 510 an even more striking appearance. Added to this is the characteristic MANHART decal set: in this case it is matt grey and red and also gives the Tesla a suggested radiator grille with honeycomb mesh on its closed front apron. To round things off, the rear and rear side windows are dark tinted.

Last but not least, the braking system and the interior of the model shown also remained in standard condition. However, we can also provide individually configurable upgrades here on request.

October 6, 2022

New Tesla Roadster Prototype will be on display at the Petersen Automotive Museum

2021 Tesla Roadster Prototype The Peterson Automotive Museum, in collaboration with Tesla, is hosting a dedicated exhibition featuring the new Tesla Roadster prototype from May 19 through June 2, 2021. The vehicle will be displayed alongside the original 2006 Tesla Roadster prototype.

According to the Tesla team, the production vehicle offers record-setting performance rates. The engineering team claims that the new Roadster Prototype will be able to reach a top speed of 250mph and accelerate from 0 to 60mph in mere 1.9 seconds. Furthermore, it is expected that the vehicle can cover up to 620 miles on a full charge with its next-generation set of batteries.

As it seems, Tesla continues its goal towards presenting the most advanced and refined vehicles and technologies that will change the face of the automobile industry. After the success of numerous Tesla models, it seems like the team has decided to continue expanding the boundaries of technology and chase even better and more refined engineering solutions.

Visitors who would like to have a look at the new Tesla Roadster Prototype should purchase tickets in advance of through the Peterson Automobile Museum website.

Source: Peterson Automobile Museum

May 11, 2021

Lightning bolt…EV driving experiences overtake petrol supercars with faster acceleration a major draw

EV driving1

Shows that electric vehicle (EV) driving experiences are gradually overtaking their petrol supercar equivalents in popularity, with faster acceleration a major draw.

It also follows news that the fastest accelerating car on the planet has just arrived, with the first customer deliveries of the Aspark electric hypercar, which has managed to hit 60 mph in just 1.72 seconds.

Meanwhile, the latest TrackDays.co.uk data shows the inexorable rise of the superfast accelerating EVs on the track for a driving experience, with bookings for these models outpacing conventional supercars such as Ferrari’s, Lamborghinis, Porsches and Aston Martins.

Indeed, bookings for its fastest accelerating EV, the Tesla Model S ‘Ludicrous’ P90D, have grown by around 10% over the last three months alone.

It can accelerate from 0 – 60 mph in a mere 2.6 seconds, compared to other supercars it has available to drive, such as the Ferrari 458 Italia in 3.3 seconds, Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder in 4.2 seconds, Porsche GT3 RS in 4.1 seconds and Aston Martin V8 Vantage in 4.8 seconds.

Dan Jones, operations manager at TrackDays.co.uk, commented: “Whether it’s on the road or on the track, there’s no stopping the EV charge.

“The lightning quick acceleration is a major draw, and quite often it takes people by surprise. No wonder, given the Tesla can reach 60 mph in a fraction over 2.5 seconds.

“Obviously, on the road there are legal driving and speed restrictions, but by enjoying a driving experience on a track, then it is possible to witness first-hand the real thrill and potential of these lightning quick EVs in a safe environment.”

Youngsters also have the chance to drive a BMW i8, a turbocharged hybrid that is quicker from 0 to 60 than some M3s, and bookings for these have also risen by 20% over the last three months.

November 30, 2020

Tesla Model X and a touch of Vilner magic. Pure eye candy

2016 Vilner Tesla Model X P90D Sadly, Art Studio Vilner showcases its last project for 2016. Although 2017 is about two weeks ahead, we have hoped for some more surprises. However, this one is quite interesting and it is worth reviewing. As all other Vilner products, in fact. So, let’s check out the birthday present by the magicians from Bulgaria, shall we?

Electricity is the code word

We all know that Tesla team is making some devastating damage to petrol and hybrid rivals. It is also a leader in electric vehicle segment and there is no doubt in the quality of the vehicles and systems that are branded with the Tesla logo. However, our friends from Vilner decided to take a closer look at a certain vehicle and tweak it a bit. And spice up the overall sexiness.

2016 Vilner Tesla Model X P90D

The design team has chosen the hot and fresh-new Model X P90D. Or more precisely, the owner of the vehicle is also an owner of two more Tesla vehicles. In other words, he knows how luxury and sexiness should look and feel like. Impressed and determined, the design team has done what should be done: a masterpiece.

Impressive even as a stock model, the Model X P90D has undergone some super slight, yet notable and elegant changes: Vilner has also remained the carbon package, but adds some spice with the front lip, mirrors and the rear spoiler that further enhance the overall aggressive expression with neat coloring finish. The brake calipers have also deserved some special attention and now shine through the massive 20-inch wheels in colors that fully resemble the interior ambience. The wheels themselves are re-finished in Dark Plutonium Silver.

2016 Vilner Tesla Model X P90D

All this premium and elegant symphony is finished in an already known manner: with the exclusive Vilner bag. Needless to say, it is unique and completely resembles not only the spirit of Tesla vehicles, but the passion of Art Studio Vilner magicians!

Source: Art Studio Vilner

December 13, 2016

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

X-Men: Apocalypse is here and so are the cars of your favorite characters! Check them out!

Wolverine Driving 1988 Toyota Hilux The “X-Men: Apocalypse” is probably one of the most awaited superhero movies this year and we are all hoping it is not a huge disappointment like “Batman vs. Superman”. The premiere of blockbuster-to-be movie is happening now and the hype is extremely huge. This was probably the reason for the appearance of these interesting renderings, which show what car models would the superheroes of X-Men drive. We would love to know your opinion about them, so make sure you leave a comment below. Is there anything unexpected you see or would you offer a better car for any of the characters?

Wolverine Driving the Nasty Toyota Hilux from 1988

If you have thought that the Wolverine would go for anything smaller, you would be wrong. The 1988 Toyota Hilux seems the perfect car for him with its rugged appearance and go-anywhere capabilities. In fact, in this rendering it almost looks indestructible… just like the protagonist played by Hugh Jackman.

As you can see, this Hilux isn’t ordinary, but it has a few extra features to help Wolverine in his duties. These include huge and custom-made wheels and retractable blades, which give him the strength and ferocity to destroy the enemies.

Magneto Driving a BMW M6 Coupe

Any questions? Who would say anything else if this is the choice of the mighty Magneto. The character played by Michael Fassbender has chosen the beautiful maroon BMW M6 Coupe, which looks almost as stylish and sexy as he does. The slick high-speed car jumps to 100 km/h (62 mph) from rest in mere 3.9 seconds, so he will have no trouble escaping any hard situation.

In this render, the body of the car is made from the same material as the helmet he wears, thus increasing his resistance to any incoming telepathy. In addition, he will sit behind a bulled prove glass (not that he needs it) and will ride his BMW on superior wheels.

Mystique’s Blue Skinned BMW i8

Mystique Driving BMW i8

Jennifer Lawrence is playing Mystique, and her character has chosen the electric BMW i8. Made of carbon-fiber, she’s even faster, more agile and ready to make her enemies regret that they are alive. With blue scaly skin and flashing yellow headlights her i8 is almost as beautiful as she is.

Charles Xavier Has Chosen the Tesla Model X

Charles Xavier Driving Tesla Model X

There is no other car than Tesla’s Model X that is perfect for Charles Xavier. James McAvoy’s character is science genius, who can not drive anything less than a vehicle made by a genius (like Elon Musk). He will also have no trouble accessing his spacious car, because of its double rear door entry. Sitting behind bullet proof windows he will manage the important duties and control the actions of the X-Men team.

Apocalypse’s Mercedes-AMG 63 6×6

Apocalypse Driving Mercedes-AMG 63 6x6

Apocalypse is the longest survivor of all the X-Men and this is why the vehicle chosen for this character is the six-wheeled Mercedes-AMG 63 6×6. Each Armour panel of this machine is intricately designed in art from another age. With these exaggerated wheels, the X-Men are set to destroy or finally save the world!

Cyclops Has Chosen the Shelby Mustang GT350R

Cyclops Driving Shelby Mustang GT350R

It is not a surprise that the Cyclops has chosen the Shelby Mustang GT350R because he has always been a fan of the Shelby American. This particular render envisions the GT350R with super speed and lightweight carbon fibre wheels, visor windscreen and automatic headlamps which double up as red optic blasts.

Jean Grey’s Cute Volvo XC90

Jean Grey Driving Volvo XC90

Jean Grey is played by one of the Game of Thrones’ cast, Sophie Turner (playing Sansa Stark). We are sure that she will make a fantastic role in these series, too. Her Jean Grey character is envisioned in the renderings driving a cute Volvo XC90, which also has unexpected capabilities. Because of the traumatizing memory of her sister’s death caused by a car accident, she has chosen the safest of brands. In addition, her XC90 also sports bullet proof windows and an inbuilt cerebro in the windshield.

So, what do you think?

Source: NeoMam Studios & WhoCanFixMyCar

May 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

Would the Bold Tesla Model X be the Last Premium Tesla Vehicle?

2015 Tesla Model X After three years of research and hard work, Tesla released its latest vehicle – the Model X. On Tuesday, Tesla CEO Elon Musk took the stage at the company’s California manufacturing plant and personally unveiled the latest Tesla model.One of the most noticeable changes in the latest Model X vehicle is definitely the size. The vehicle is larger than its predecessor Model S and comes with three full rows of seats and completely restyled doors, the so-called “Falcon wing doors” that open vertically. And along with the “falcon-ish” elements, Tesla also geared the vehicle with all-wheel drive and numerous handy gadgets and tweaks.

It’s important to show that any type of car can go electric. We did it with the sports car, the sedan, and, now, we’re going to show it with an SUV.

First of all, the front doors can open automatically, while the windshield is big. Really big. Furthermore, the Model X offers a special front console that has numerous features one of which is to charge almost any kind of mobile phone. The back seats automatically lean forward to open space to the third row and there is also space under them for additional cargo. Handy, right?

But let’s go back to the falcon stuff. The doors I mean. What is also special, along with the horizontal movement is that they save up space while the vehicle is at some parking space. It is a matter of inches to open them. Cool, right?But along with the vehicle and its interesting additions, there is one more curious thing to say. Tesla Model X might well be one of the last premium models that the brand will produce. It is already scheduled that the next Tesla vehicle will focus the mass market with price of about $35,000. 2015 Tesla Model X So, what do you think of the vehicle? I personally believed that with the “falcon wings” this machine could fly, alas I am sort of disappointed.