The Tesla Model S 85, produced from 2012 to 2015, represents a pivotal moment in the automotive industry. It was one of the first fully electric vehicles to demonstrate that electric cars could be both practical and desirable, offering long range, strong performance, and a premium experience. Positioned in the luxury liftback segment, the Model S 85 challenged established automakers and paved the way for the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. This model, specifically the 85 kWh variant, became a benchmark for electric vehicle technology and remains a significant vehicle in Tesla’s history.
Tesla Model S 85: A Technological Leap
The Model S 85 was a groundbreaking vehicle, introducing a new paradigm for electric vehicle design and performance. Unlike earlier electric cars that often compromised on range or practicality, the Model S 85 aimed to deliver a compelling alternative to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. Its spacious interior, long range, and impressive acceleration quickly garnered attention and established Tesla as a serious player in the automotive market. The “85” designation refers to the battery pack capacity in kilowatt-hours (kWh), a key factor in determining the vehicle’s range.
Engine & Performance
The Tesla Model S 85 is powered by a single electric motor located on the rear axle. This motor delivers 362 horsepower (Hp) and 440 Newton-meters (324.53 lb.-ft.) of torque. Power is delivered instantly, resulting in brisk acceleration. The Model S 85 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, and 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 5.6 seconds, with a top speed of 124.27 mph (200 km/h). The powertrain architecture is a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV), meaning it relies solely on electricity for propulsion. The single-speed automatic transmission simplifies the driving experience, providing seamless acceleration. The weight-to-power ratio is 5.8 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 4.8 kg/Nm, contributing to its responsive handling.
Design & Features
The Tesla Model S 85 features a distinctive liftback body style, offering a blend of sedan elegance and hatchback practicality. It seats up to seven passengers, making it a versatile option for families. The vehicle’s sleek and aerodynamic design contributes to its efficiency and range. The battery pack is located beneath the floor, providing a low center of gravity and enhancing stability. Key features include a large touchscreen display that controls most vehicle functions, over-the-air software updates, and a spacious cargo area with a minimum capacity of 26.31 cubic feet, expandable to 58.09 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. Safety features, while evolving with each model year, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a focus on structural integrity to protect occupants in the event of a collision. The Model S 85 prioritized a minimalist interior design, emphasizing technology and user experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Tesla |
| Model | Model S |
| Generation | Model S |
| Type (Engine) | 85 85 kWh (362 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Liftback |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 124.27 mph (200 km/h) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm |
| Gross battery capacity | 85 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 366 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Below the floor |
| All-electric range (NEDC) | 311.93 mi (502 km) |
| Average Energy consumption (NEDC) | 25.91 kWh/100 mi (16.1 kWh/100 km) |
| Electric motor power | 362 Hp @ 6000-9500 rpm |
| Electric motor Torque | 440 Nm @ 0-5800 rpm (324.53 lb.-ft. @ 0-5800 rpm) |
| Electric motor location | Rear axle, Transverse |
| System power | 362 Hp @ 6000-9500 rpm |
| System torque | 440 Nm @ 0-5800 rpm (324.53 lb.-ft. @ 0-5800 rpm) |
| Kerb Weight | 4629.71 lbs (2100 kg) |
| Max. weight | 5709.97 lbs (2590 kg) |
| Max load | 1080.27 lbs (490 kg) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 26.31 cu. ft (745 l) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 58.09 cu. ft (1645 l) |
| Max. roof load | 165.35 lbs (75 kg) |
| Length | 195.67 in (4970 mm) |
| Width | 77.28 in (1963 mm) |
| Width including mirrors | 86.18 in (2189 mm) |
| Height | 56.18 in (1427 mm) |
| Wheelbase | 116.54 in (2960 mm) |
| Front track | 65.39 in (1661 mm) |
| Rear (Back) track | 65.71 in (1669 mm) |
| Front overhang | 36.57 in (929 mm) |
| Rear overhang | 42.52 in (1080 mm) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 6.1 in (155 mm) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.24 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 37.07 ft (11.3 m) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | One electric motor drives the rear wheels. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 1 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 355×32 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 365×28 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 245/45 R19; 245/35 R21Rear wheel tires: 245/45 R19; 245/35 R21; 265/35 R21 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 8J x 19; 8.5J x 21Rear wheel rims: 8J x 19; 8.5J x 21; 9J x 21 |
The Tesla Model S 85 was more than just a car; it was a statement. It demonstrated that electric vehicles could be luxurious, high-performing, and practical, challenging the status quo and accelerating the transition to sustainable transportation. Its legacy continues to influence the automotive industry today, inspiring other manufacturers to invest in electric vehicle technology and offering consumers a viable alternative to traditional gasoline-powered cars.
