Tesla – Page 3 – Automobiles Review

SS Customs and Tesla Create One-Off TeslaVets to Celebrate Veterans Day

SS Customs told us that this current project we are presenting to you is on of their most favourite. It is called TeslaVets project and it is based on the superb Tesla Model S. The custom design of the car was created in house with the Tesla’s collaboration. The reason: both companies are honoring Veterans Day (11th of November) and those who have supported their country. And this is a great expression of a heartfelt “Thank you”.

In July, the electric car manufacturer released information that it has a goal of becoming the top employer for veterans in the United States. In fact, already about five percent of the staff are veterans, and there is this tendency of additional 600 people to be hired in the near future.

The California-based company has just unveiled the tuned car via its official Facebook page via a bunch of pictures. As we see they show a Model S, dressed up in a special wrap. Of course, it was all done by the specialists at SS Customs. The Camo vinyl wrap was hand cut and then hand applied.

To match the perfect new exterior appearance of the vehicle, the tuners decided to add one off powder coated green 21 inch Model S wheels and Yakima roof basket on whispbars with full Armed Forces regalia. Note also the yellow tinted headlights and the typical military equipment mounted on the custom-made roof rack.

Tesla Model S is the most successful electric vehicle with a rear wheel drive. It is powered by a liquid-cooled powertrain, which includes the battery, motor, drive inverter, and gear box. The total power is rated at 416 hp (310 kW) an 600 Nm (443 lb-ft) of torque, while the range of the car is around 450 km.

Source: SS Customs via Facebook

November 13, 2014

Dual Motor Model S and Autopilot

The new Tesla Dual Motor Model S has a motor on each axle and it comes with a battery of either 60 kWh or 85 kWh. The torque is controlled independently and digitally to the front and rear wheels which results in a stable performance, making Dual Motor Model S a vehicle that is most reliable when it comes to road handling and road holding.

With the increased efficiency and pure implementation that the new Tesla’s Dual Motor propulsion system demonstrates, it is able to overshadow gasoline cars in the same class. A vivid example for this is the Model S 85D which has proven to be better than gasoline-powered cars in terms of performing. It not only delivers 100 percent of peak torque but also perform from 0 to 60 mph in the impressive 3.2 seconds.

The combination of the P85 rear motor and the brand new front drive unit of Tesla produces probably the fastest four-door car ever that can accelerate in the blink of an eye… Almost. Such results can only be accomplished by an electric car. And what is the best part about P85D? It perfectly matches the McLaren F1 and, even more so, it does not ask for a professional driver. The glory of this outstanding performance can be achieved pretty much by anyone that steps a foot inside the car.

Dual Motor Model S launches with a variety of new safety features and other product updates such as improvements for a quieter cabin, seat comfort enhancements, charge-port door that self-closes and opens electrically, enlarged vanity mirror, bigger visor size and many more.

Finally, the Autopilot system is very much like the one used by pilots in order to ensure better comfort and increased safety in clear conditions. Nevertheless, the full range of improved and new features such as digital control of motors, brakes, its ability to steer in order to stay within a lane, changing lanes with a tap of a turn signal, steering to avoid collisions from the front, sides, or from leaving the road as well as many others will be available in a few months.

Source: Tesla

October 14, 2014

Saleen FOURSIXTEEN is Enhanced Tesla Model S

In the beginning of the year we were informed that the first electric car to be transformed by Saleen will be the Tesla Model S. The FOURSIXTEEN performance electric car was shown for the first time at the 2014 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. The exterior of the car is an example of a harmonious blend of aggressiveness and class. It features the emblematic Saleen DNA design with brand new front fascia and carbon fiber rear diffuser.

At the front of the FOURSIXTEEN there are also aero management vents, which maintain the low pressure field as air acceleration increases around the chassis. In addition, there is also one-of-a-kind V-shaped hood architecture, which efficiently directs hot air away from the drivetrain cooling system.

At the back of this Model S, the rear fascia features a designed high-downforce decklid mounted spoiler. Mid-chassis air is directed across the carbon fiber accents stretching between the taillights. Saleen diffuser boosts further the aerodynamic downforce capability of the vehicle.

What drives the FOURSIXTEEN is the three-phase, four pole AC induction motor and copper rotor with the upgraded Saleen drivetrain. The latter includes new 11.39:1 final gear ratio for quicker acceleration.

Another innovation is the MAXGRIPTM locking differential, which is specific for the tuning company and which allows each wheel to efficiently apply rotational force and maximize traction and grip during performance. Saleen’s high-efficiency drivetrain cooling system ensures that the electric motor works in the appropriate temperature. This system comprises of a larger volume radiator, upsampled cooling fans, and a high-flow water pump.

Furthermore, a specific S4 track-calibrated suspension which features a monotube coilover, works in conjunction with an S4 sway bar setup. All in all this improves cornering agility without sacrificing ride quality. The Stability Control System has been also enhanced via software change.

Saleen-specific brakes have been also included in the modification, which work together with the stability control software, wheel, tire, and S4 suspension system. The standard brake package features 14” 2-piece aluminum hat vented rotors and multi-piston front calipers with performance brake pads. FOURSIXTEEN rides on specifically Saleen designed wheels, which are coupled with ZR-spec tires.

Inside, the tuning company has also made changes. From the handpicked leather palette to the carbon fiber dash accents, the cabin is more luxurious than ever. The seats are wrapped in black leather that features contrast perforated leather accents and Alcantara suede inlays. A new center console has also been integrated into the interior redesign.

To go further into details, the front and rear seating have been remolded in ordered to produce four full bucket seats. Saleen’s tailor-made door panels and a full leather-wrapped dash complimented with hand sewn contrast stitching as well as the black leather seat shells finalize the interior enhancement.

Saleen FOURSIXTEEN Tesla Model S has a starting price of $152,000 USD.

Source: Saleen Automotive

August 18, 2014

Unplugged Performance Tesla Model S – Styling Upgrades

Unplugged Performance is a tuning company based in California, US. They have introduced a new styling program for the Tesla Model S.

The exterior comes with a front lip spoiler – $995, aerodynamic side skirts – $1,450, a rear diffuser – $1,550 and a trunk-mounted spoiler – $895. Last, but not least is the new front fascia and Unplugged Performance said that they are working on performance and suspension upgrades as well.

“As an owner of a Tesla Model S P85+ I can tell you that the car is already an exceptional and unique driving experience. However being also an active member of the supercar community I can say from experience that every car including even the greatest supercars have the ability to become better still when upgraded with the right selection of parts. It has been proven again and again that regardless of how great a car is from the factory, it is truly only a starting point to extract the vehicle’s true potential. Brands like Mercedes’ AMG exist to bring an increased level of excitement to the ownership experience and Unplugged Performance’s goal is to push the potential of the Tesla Model S further than anyone has imagined. Unplugged is creating a future for our fellow Tesla owners that want to get the most out of their Tesla experience by upgrading their cars. Whether it is new heights of performance, styling or driving satisfaction Unplugged Performance will be developing upgrades that are worthy and well-designed improvements for such a revolutionary car.”, commented the President of Unplugged’s parent company Bulletproof Automotive, Ben Schaffer.

Source: Unplugged Performance

March 26, 2014

AEZ Cliff Enhances Tesla Model S

When AEZ Cliff decided to enhance Tesla’s exclusive Model S, it probably did not have the idea of the electrifying result. We all know that Model S is one of the most sizable EV of its time. It has a wheelbase of 116.5”, an overall length of 195.9” and a front track width of 65.4”. This means that inside one gets a lot of head and rear legroom, as well as front leg room and luggage space.

More importantly, Tesla’s vehicle has been considered as one of the fastest EVs. It can cover the acceleration sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in only 4.4 seconds on its way to the Vmax of 130 mph. And this particular model fell for some time in the hands of the tuners at AEZ Cliff.

Precisely, to make the Tesla S even more exclusive and individual in looks, they have added their special AEZ 8.5×19’’ alloy wheels. The aluminium is extremely light and this goes perfectly with the design philosophy of the emission-less and efficient car.

The featured alloy wheels have a convincing cross-spoke design with five pairs of double spokes stretching far into the slim rim flange. AEZ’s new “smart center” contributes for more compact and detailed design, and additionally it gets its depth and 3D quality from the inwardly slanted edge in the rim well. And at last, but not least, the wheels have the load capacity of up to 1025 kg.

Source: AEZ Cliff

March 19, 2014

Tesla Model S Performance – US Price $205,820

Tesla Model S could be actually pretty expensive, especially if you go for the tuned version by T Sportline. The overall price is whopping $205,820, which means upgrades for $82,050.

The modifications include a set of 21” forged wheels for $7,500 and another $5,250 for complete carbon fiber body kit – a new front and rear bumper extensions as well as a trunk lip spoiler.

The electric car also comes with a 3M wrap for $6,000 and tinted windows for $1,500 from the same company. The bespoke upholstery costs mind-blowing $25 large and the sound system is another $9,500.

Tuning is expensive, but these figures are just mad. You can tune your car with quality parts for a lot less than that and the result won’t be worse!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9mDKFrSe9mc

Source: T Sportline

March 17, 2014

Saleen’s First Tuned Electric Vehicle To Be Tesla Model S

The muscle vehicle enhancer Saleen has announced that will produce for the first time a Saleen Tesla Model S sports car. This will be tuner’s firs effort in modifying an existing electric vehicle. Unfortunately, no release date has been set for the completion of the car, or any renderings of its design released.

However, the brand will publish very soon the first images Saleen Tesla Model S as the research and design continue. Saleen will also offer a spec sheet which will detail some of the enhancements and innovations that are to be added in this project.

Saleen has become famous with its exceptional transformations of Camaros, Challengers, and Mustangs, by adding to them more style and performance. Now the brand is putting its focus on a vehicle that has defined the sports car in the rapidly growing electric car sector.

In fact, Tesla and Saleen share the same core values of delivering elite power, style, and performance, and unprecedented craftsmanship. This new project will also give them another thing in common: to offer to the automotive audience vehicle which is not dependent on fossil fuels. Saleen has also stated that it fully intends to produce one of the most compelling Tesla’s to ever hit the roadway.

Source: Saleen Automotive

February 3, 2014

Tesla Supercharger Network Throughout The US

Tesla-Model-S-medium Positive proof: you can now get in a Tesla Model S and take it across the US without spending a dime for fuel. Thanks to Tesla’s Supercharger network throughout the states, biochemist John Glenney and his daughter was able to make a cross-country road trip without much of a hustle. Objective: being the first to complete the cross country journey relying only on Superchargers

On the 21st of January – in spite of the severe polar vortex that had gripped the states at the time – he made a post on the Tesla Motors Model S forum about how he plans on embarking on the adventure before actually leaving New York and started heading west. Communal excitement ensued:

“Fun to watch history unfolding in real-time!” said one forum commenter, as the Glenneys started updating their progress.

The only two obstacles throughout the trip were a flat tire in New York and a slight case of what we’d like to call “mileage anxiety”. Mr Glenney felt that the charge might not hold between the Newark, NJ and Somerset, PA charging points. (As of now there should be a new Supercharger in Hagerstown, MD effectively eliminating any future worries).

After 2,500 miles and 5 days of travelling, Mr. Glenny’s is convinced that the Tesla is “better than any other touring car [he] has ever had”

Tesla-Model-S-medium-2

Source: Tesla

January 29, 2014

Tesla Model S With Vorsteiner Flow Forged V-FF 101 Wheels

Vorsteiner-V-FF-101-Tesla-Model-S-shadow It’s nice to see Tesla back in the news, even if it’s just by proxy. Vorsteiner – the California-based tuning company with a rather German name – have laid their hands on a Tesla Model S, which coincidentally (or not) is also a Californian brain child.

Maybe because it’s such an interesting choice (an electric car), Vorsteiner didn’t do much in terms of modifications. In fact, it’s just your average wheel-change-scheme: away with the stock 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels and on with the Vorsteiner set. They’ve gone for the 20-inch V-FF 101 Flow Forged Alloy wheels. Supposedly, they are even lighter than the standard ones. Sporting 285/35 R20 Michelins rather than the stock 245/45 R19 Goodyears must be taking a toll on the Tesla’s range; but let’s be honest, the new wheels most definitely do not look out of place on the Model S.

Just a reminder, the Tesla Model S is an all-electric RWD sedan powered by a 60 kWh lithium battery pack. It has pretty much all the features you would find on any of the executive saloons: Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, big, ventilated ABS, an independent back suspension, Xenon headlights and LED back lights, a 200 watt, seven speaker system, eight airbags and many more.

Source: Vorsteiner

January 23, 2014

Clone of Tesla Model S Debuts in Hong Kong

The popular and breath-taking Tesla Model S now makes its first debut in the Asian market and it is available for in-person customer demonstrations and test drives in Hong Kong. Model S is a premium sedan built as an electric vehicle with the aim to raise the spirits of public’s expectations of what a premium sedan can be.

According to the opinion of those who were firs to test drive the model there, the EV is quiet, smooth, and pollution free at the tailpipe. They have expressed that it was a pure joy to drive it and it was like no other car – being fast and very responsive, and at the same time including luxury and comfort.

Furthermore, Tesla also introduced its innovative “Design Studio” in Hong Kong, within the same space as its existing Service Center. The Studio includes interactive displays where customers can design their own Tesla Model S on a large touchscreen.

The goal of the new step that Tesla Motors have undertaken is to expand the impression and knowledge in the audience of how advanced technology behind Model S and what are the benefits of an electric car.

At the heart of Tesla Model S is a proven powertrain which delivers great range and a thrilling drive experience. The vehicle has a rigid body structure, nearly 50/50 weight distribution and a remarkably low center of gravity. This means that it offers responsiveness and agility nearly as a sports car.

In addition, Model S offers many battery options that set the benchmark for electric driving range. All of them utilize automotive-grade lithium-ion cells arranged for optimal energy density, thermal management, and safety.

On the other hand the interior of Model S is designed to deliver more cargo space than any other sedan in its class and features a second trunk under the hood. In the cabin can be also seen a 17” in-dash touchscreen with Internet capabilities, allowing for streaming radio, web browsing and navigation.

Tesla is promising that it will continue to expand its retail network into 2013, supporting the mission to engage and inform as many people as possible about driving electric vehicles.

Image Source: Flickr

News Source: Tesla

January 9, 2013

Tesla Model S Goes to Europe

tesla-model-s-651 One of the three most popular green car manufacturers in the United States is undisputedly Tesla Motors. The company has recently announced that it is making plans to start a worldwide distribution of its all-electric Model S Sedan.

In order to make this into reality, what it also plans is to make distribution centers in other parts of the world. And Tesla Motors sets the beginning of this by opening its European Distribution Center in Tilburg, Netherlands, which will happen later this month.

It is going to be 62 000 square foot facility in a central location. More importantly, the new Tesla facility is going to compete in the automotive European market with luxury car manufacturers such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

What it first considers to do is to start stocking parts for both the Tesla Roadster and Model S. Furthermore, another utilization of this factory will be for importing operations, final vehicle assembly and distribution, service headquarters, technical training operations, parts remanufacturing, collision repair.

Even more, for all who live in UK and wish to go greener, it was noted that there will be also a general production of a European left-hand drive Model S, which production will begin in March next year.

Source: earthtechling

December 18, 2012

Tesla Model S vs BMW M5 F10 Drag Race [video]

BMW M5 F10 is currently one of the fastest four-door cars in the world. It crosses the finish line at ¼ mile in 11.9 seconds with 122 mph (196 km/h) terminal speed.

F10 M5 is powered by a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 with 560PS (412 kW) and 680Nm (502 lb-ft). It is mated to a 7-speed M Double Clutch Transmission. 0 to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds, 0 to 200 km/h in 12.1 seconds and top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) electronically limited and 305 km/h (190 mph) with M Driver’s Package. The M5 F10 is 1990kg (4387 lbs).

On the other hand, the Tesla Model S is powered by a 416HP (310 kW) and 600Nm (443 lb-ft) of torque rear mounted electric motor. It is interesting that the electric motor has its full torque (600Nm) from the 1^st RPM. The car weighs 2105 kg (4640 lbs).

Although the Tesla S is underpowered, it manages to win this race. Still, we do not believe that, because the M5 driver made terrible start.

Check out the video below to see what happens!

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vvHTN0Yi1t4