Tesla have introduced the longest-range Electric Vehicle in production on the all-new Model S and Model X Long Range. What does this mean for those looking to buy/lease an EV car?
A major issue facing customers looking for an electric or hybrid vehicle is the range. Realistically, the current range on most electric and hybrid vehicles is not enough to sustain our daily commute and therefore not a suitable option for consumers who do not want to me stranded looking for a charger every 50-100 miles. Some hybrid cars, like the BMW 530e, are only achieving 29 electric miles. For many, this is much less than their daily commute to work.
Tesla's all-new drivetrain design
At the end of April, electric car manufacture Tesla announced its all-new drivetrain design on the Model S and Model X. Prior to this announcement, the Model S and Model X were achieving approximately 340 miles and 290-300 miles respectively. The new design has increased the battery range a further 10% on a single charge, now allowing the driver to travel 375 miles and 325 miles respectively.
Tesla state that the improvements have not come from a new battery; this has all been "accomplished...without increasing the car's battery size, proving that our expertise in the system-level design can make our cars dramatically more efficient."
Tesla have implemented a whole range of new features and designs to improve range, acceleration and ride comfort.
You can read in more detail about what changes have been made to the Model S and Model X on the Tesla website. Changes include: 'More Efficient Design,' 'Faster Charging,' 'Fully Adaptive Suspension,' and 'Constant Refinement.'
But....
There is no doubt that this is a fantastic improvement for the electric automotive industry. BUT one issue remains: is it affordable?
Pendle Lease have some great eco leasing deals available for all variants of electric and hybrid vehicles, including the Tesla. This may be affordable for some people, but for the masses spending over £1000 a month on an electric car is not affordable. Until other manufactures catch up with desirable range and desirable prices, we think most people will still opt for a diesel or petrol engine.
