Named after inventor Nikola Tesla who first introduced the application of the alternating current in electric circuits, the car has wowed auto enthusiasts all over the world, even garnering the 2013 Car of the year award from Motor Trend; it is the first time an electric vehicle has received the top prize in the magazine’s 64-year history.
Many of the accolades the car is receiving are due to the lithium ion cells set between the rear wheels. Made out of the same parts that power cell phone batteries, the technology allows it to deliver an incredible fuel efficiency of between 135 and 190 km per electric gallon; it can also race from 0-96.5 km/h in four seconds with a top speed of 217 km/h.
Inside, an innovative touch screen give you all the commands you need in one place, including the ability to operate the sunroof or use the car’s premium sound system to keep driver and passengers entertained. Door handles, flush with the body, pop out as you approach, while sensors take charge as you take a seat, warming the covers and adjusting the seats according to your position; if electric and automatic ever needed a bridge, the Tesla S was it.
The best part about the Tesla S is that it can be charged through a domestic electric socket. So if there are no electric refueling stations around, the car’s fuel efficiency mean you can still use it for inter-city travel. Plus there’s a convenient sleep mode that can conserve the juice when the car is not in use.
Soccer moms with love the extra luggage space thanks to the absence of an engine and fuel tank, while environmentalists will love the car’s eco-friendliness. But with enough curves to make the red carpet dazzle, the Tesla S is sure to be on every car enthusiasts must have list.
By Romano Karim Yusuf