Today, Elon Musk founder and CEO of Tesla Motors announced three major improvements to the S line and about two-thirds of the way through his remarks gave said something that gave us hope for the world and the future of mankind. Well, not quite, but it did make us happy.
First, the Model S.
Major improvements include a new 90 kWh Battery that increase the range of the Model S to 300 miles. This only adds 15 miles to the range over the P85 model, but 300 miles is a significant psychological barrier. The upgrade only adds $3,000 to the cost over the previous model.
The second announcement is that the Model S P70 will now be offered for just $70,000. This is a single motor car that after incentives and fuel savings will actually end up costing owners closer to $50,000. With a long list of standard features, the P70 will offer plenty of amenities for owners who don’t need all the range and power of the P90.
Speaking of power, the final Model S announcement is that it will now be quicker than ever. Output has been increased from 1300 to 1500 Amps and 0-60 times for the car will be 2.8 seconds. For reference that’s as quick as a McLaren 650S and Ferrari 488. As if we needed more reasons to like Elon Musk, here’s yet another. He calls this new enhancement, Ludicrous Speed, which means he’s clearly a Mel Brooks fan.
And now for the best news of all one only has to read this quote from today’s press release: “There is of course one speed faster than ludicrous, but that is reserved for the next generation Roadster in 4 years: maximum plaid.”
That’s right. We’ll be getting a new Tesla Roadster in four years, kids. And it will be faster than the ludicrously fast Model S P90. We can hardly wait!