Tesla Model S P90D

A 2016 Tesla Model S rolling chassis

Key facts

  • Year

    2016

  • Country

    United States

  • Capacity

    2 x AC synchronous three phase electric motors

  • Output

    total power output 525bhp

  • Maximum speed

    155mph

  • Performance

    0-60mph 2.8 seconds

  • Price new

    From £70,180

  • Loaned by

    Private Owner

  • Manufacturer

    Tesla Inc, Fremont, California, USA & Tilburg, Netherlands

This rolling chassis illustrates much of the current thinking in automotive technology. The Tesla Model S was designed from the outset as an electric vehicle (EV), without the compromises involved in altering a car intended for an internal combustion engine to electric propulsion. Power comes from a floor-mounted 90KWh lithium ion battery pack.

Founded in 2003, Tesla adopted a different approach to electric vehicle design compared with other manufacturers. Their first vehicle, the Roadster, produced from 2008 – 2012, was a sports car. The Model S high performance, luxury saloon was launched in 2012, seeing continual development ever since and has consistently been among the top-selling plug-in electric cars. It has been offered in a number of single and twin motor configurations, offering high performance and, in some versions, a range of over 400 miles with zero emissions.

Panoramic view of the first floor of the National Motor Museum

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