The Tesla Model S, particularly the facelifted version introduced in September 2021, represents a significant evolution in the electric vehicle (EV) market. Positioned within the premium large car segment, the Model S Long Range 100 kWh (670 Hp) Dual Motor AWD variant offers a compelling blend of performance, range, and technology. This iteration builds upon the original Model S’s groundbreaking design and establishes Tesla as a leader in long-range electric mobility. The 2021 facelift brought substantial updates to the interior, exterior styling, and powertrain, further solidifying the Model S’s position as a desirable and technologically advanced vehicle.
Tesla Model S (Facelift 2021) Long Range: An Overview
The Model S is Tesla’s flagship sedan, designed to compete with established luxury brands while offering the unique benefits of an all-electric powertrain. The “facelift” designation refers to a comprehensive redesign implemented in 2021, addressing earlier criticisms and enhancing the vehicle’s overall appeal. The Long Range variant, equipped with a 100 kWh battery pack and dual motors, prioritizes extended driving range without sacrificing performance. Its liftback body style provides both the elegance of a sedan and the practicality of a hatchback, offering generous cargo space. The Model S is exclusively available with all-wheel drive, enhancing traction and stability.
Engine & Performance
The Tesla Model S Long Range utilizes a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive (AWD) powertrain. Each motor independently powers the front and rear axles, providing precise torque vectoring for enhanced handling. The combined system output is an impressive 670 horsepower. Each electric motor delivers 343 Hp. This configuration allows for blistering acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in just 3.1 seconds and 0-100 km/h in 3.2 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 155.34 mph (250 km/h). The powertrain’s efficiency is notable, with an average energy consumption of 17.4 kWh per 100 kilometers (28 kWh per 100 miles), translating to an equivalent of 120 MPGe and a range of 5.7 kilometers per kWh (3.6 miles per kWh). The single-speed automatic transmission provides seamless power delivery, characteristic of electric vehicle drivetrains.
Design & Features
The 2021 Model S features a sleek and aerodynamic liftback design. The exterior styling was refined with subtle changes to the front and rear fascias, contributing to a lower drag coefficient of 0.208. This aerodynamic efficiency plays a crucial role in maximizing range. The interior underwent a more significant overhaul, adopting a minimalist aesthetic centered around a large, landscape-oriented touchscreen display. The steering wheel utilizes a yoke design, a controversial but distinctive feature. The Model S offers seating for five passengers and provides ample legroom and headroom. Cargo capacity is substantial, with 25.04 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and up to 61.41 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. Safety features are comprehensive, including ABS, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as Autopilot. The air suspension provides a comfortable ride and allows for adjustable ride height, ranging from 4.61 to 6.22 inches.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Tesla |
| Model | Model S |
| Generation | Model S (facelift 2021) |
| Type | Long Range 100 kWh (670 Hp) Dual Motor AWD |
| Start of production | September, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Liftback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 155.34 mph (250 km/h) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.1 kg/Hp, 323.8 Hp/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 100 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 407 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range | 405.13 mi (652 km) |
| Average Energy consumption | 17.4 kWh/100 km, 28 kWh/100 mi, 120 MPGe, 5.7 km/kWh, 3.6 mi/kWh |
| Electric motor power (Front) | 343 Hp |
| Electric motor location (Front) | Front axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor power (Rear) | 343 Hp |
| Electric motor location (Rear) | Rear axle, Transverse |
| System power | 670 Hp |
| Kerb Weight | 4561.36 – 4640.73 lbs (2069-2105 kg) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 25.04 cu. ft (709 l) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 61.41 cu. ft (1739 l) |
| Max. roof load | 165.35 lbs (75 kg) |
| Length | 197.68 in (5021 mm) |
| Width | 78.23 in (1987 mm) |
| Width including mirrors | 86.18 in (2189 mm) |
| Height | 56.34 in (1431 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 116.54 in (2960 mm) |
| Front track | 66.54 in (1690 mm) |
| Rear track | 66.54 in (1690 mm) |
| Front overhang | 37.83 in (961 mm) |
| Rear overhang | 43.31 in (1100 mm) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 4.61 – 6.22 in (117-158 mm) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.208 |
| Minimum turning circle | 40.35 ft (12.3 m) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | One electric motor drives the front wheels, one electric motor drives the rear wheels. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 1 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer, Air suspension |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Air suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 380×32 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 365×28 mm |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Front Tires | 255/45 R19; 265/35 R21 |
| Rear Tires | 285/40 R19; 295/30 R21 |
| Front Wheel Rims | 9.5J x 19; 9.5J x 21 |
| Rear Wheel Rims | 10.5J x 19; 10.5J x 21 |
The Tesla Model S Long Range 100 kWh (670 Hp) Dual Motor AWD represents a significant step forward in electric vehicle technology. Its combination of long range, high performance, and advanced features continues to set the standard for the EV market, influencing the development of electric vehicles from other manufacturers and accelerating the transition towards sustainable transportation.
