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Teslas to go further

Richard Edwards · 0 comments

Tesla has made updates to the Model S and X – including a new drivetrain – that make the cars go further on the same size battery.

The S and X long range models will now go a landmark 610km and 525 km on the EPA cycle respectively – a 10% increase. Using the same 100 kWh battery pack, these design and architecture updates will allow drivers to travel farther than ever before, charging less frequently and getting more range out of every dollar spent on charging.

Also new is a brand-new adaptive suspension system.

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All Model S and X vehicles now benefit from Tesla’s latest generation of drive unit technology, which combines an optimized permanent magnet synchronous reluctance motor, silicon carbide power electronics, and improved lubrication, cooling, bearings, and gear designs to achieve greater than 93% efficiency. Pairing a permanent magnet motor in the front with an induction motor in the rear enables improved range and performance.

Model S and Model X are now capable of achieving 200kW on V3 Superchargers and 145kW on V2 Superchargers.

Other refinements include new wheel bearings and a few new tire designs for certain variants to improve range, ride, and steering. While these changes may seem minor, together they have a meaningful impact when it comes to EV design.

A standard range model has also returned to the lineup.

The updated Model S and X can be ordered online now, with production commencing later this week.

Richard Edwards

Richard Edwards is one of the owners of Auto Media Group and leads its editorial efforts. Richard has been writing about New Zealand’s automotive industry and dealer community for nearly two decades. The knowledge and contacts built up over that time gives our publications leads and insight others can’t match. He is also the president of the New Zealand Motoring Writers’ Guild.

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