Tesla Model S (facelift ) 60D 60 kWh (328 Hp) AWD

The Tesla Model S, launched in 2012, represented a pivotal moment in the automotive industry, demonstrating the viability of high-performance, long-range electric vehicles. The 2016 facelift, specifically the 60D variant, continued this trajectory, offering a compelling blend of efficiency, performance, and technology. Positioned in the premium large car segment, the Model S 60D aimed to broaden the appeal of electric vehicles to a wider audience by providing a more accessible entry point into the Tesla lineup while retaining the core attributes that defined the brand. This iteration of the Model S was primarily sold in North America, Europe, and Asia, becoming a symbol of sustainable luxury and technological innovation.

Tesla Model S (Facelift 2016) 60D: An Overview

The Model S 60D, produced from April 2016 to April 2017, was a key component of Tesla’s strategy to expand its market reach. The “D” designation signified dual-motor all-wheel drive, a feature that enhanced both performance and all-weather capability. The 60D utilized a 60 kWh battery pack, offering a balance between range and cost. It served as a stepping stone between the base model and the higher-performance variants, appealing to buyers seeking a premium electric vehicle experience without the higher price tag of the 85D or P100D models. The facelift brought subtle styling updates and improvements to interior materials and technology.

Engine & Performance

The Tesla Model S 60D is powered by two independent electric motors, one driving the front wheels and the other driving the rear wheels, providing all-wheel drive capability. Each motor produces 259 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 330 Nm (243.4 lb.-ft.) of torque. Combined, the system delivers a total output of 328 horsepower and 525 Nm (387.22 lb.-ft.) of torque. This dual-motor configuration allows for rapid acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.2 seconds and 0-62 mph in 5.4 seconds, with a top speed of 130.49 mph (210 km/h). The powertrain architecture is a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV), relying entirely on electricity for propulsion. The battery pack, a lithium-ion unit with a gross capacity of 60 kWh and operating at 300V, is located beneath the floor of the vehicle, contributing to a low center of gravity and improved handling. The weight-to-power ratio is 6.4 kg/Hp, or 155.6 Hp/tonne, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 4 kg/Nm, or 249.1 Nm/tonne.

Design & Features

The Tesla Model S 60D is a five-door liftback, offering a unique combination of sedan practicality and hatchback versatility. It comfortably seats up to seven passengers, making it a viable option for families. The exterior design is characterized by its sleek, aerodynamic profile, contributing to a drag coefficient of just 0.24. The 2016 facelift included minor cosmetic changes, such as a revised front fascia. Inside, the Model S 60D is dominated by its large 17-inch touchscreen display, which controls most vehicle functions. Key features include a panoramic glass roof, premium interior materials, and Tesla’s Autopilot system, offering advanced driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist. Safety features were a priority, with a robust suite of active and passive safety systems designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. The vehicle’s spacious interior offers 745 liters (26.31 cu. ft.) of trunk space with the rear seats up, expanding to 1645 liters (58.09 cu. ft.) with the seats folded down.

Technical Specifications