1. Electric Powertrain
Zero Emissions: Fully electric vehicle, meaning no tailpipe emissions, making it eco-friendly.
Lower Running Costs: No gasoline usage; charging is cheaper than refueling with gas.
Incentives: Qualifies for various government incentives and tax credits for electric vehicles.
2. Performance
Strong Acceleration: Despite being an older model, the S85 offers smooth and rapid acceleration (0-60 mph in about 5.4 seconds), providing a sporty driving experience.
Single-Motor RWD: Rear-wheel-drive (RWD) layout provides good handling and driving dynamics.
Instant Torque: Electric motors provide instant torque, offering a responsive feel when driving.
3. Range
Long Driving Range: It boasts an EPA-estimated range of approximately 265 miles on a single charge, which was impressive for the time and still competitive today.
Supercharging Capabilities: Access to Tesla’s growing network of Superchargers for quick recharges on long trips.
4. Innovative Technology
Autopilot Hardware (Pre-Autopilot Software): Though it doesn’t come with full Autopilot features like newer models, it has hardware that supports advanced driver-assist features (like lane departure warning, etc.).
Over-the-Air Updates: Tesla’s OTA software updates allow improvements and new features to be added over time, keeping the car’s tech relevant.
5. Design and Comfort
Luxury Interior: High-quality materials, minimalist design, and a spacious cabin create a luxury experience. The interior space and rear seats are particularly comfortable.
15-inch Touchscreen: One of the most notable features is the large, vertically oriented touchscreen display that controls most of the car’s functions, including navigation, climate, and media.
Cargo Space: The Model S offers ample cargo room with both a front trunk (“frunk”) and a rear trunk, making it versatile for carrying luggage or groceries.
6. Safety
Top Safety Ratings: The Tesla Model S has consistently received high safety ratings, including a 5-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Battery Protection: Its battery is well-shielded from collisions with a rigid structure, adding to the overall safety.
7. Longevity and Reliability
Battery Longevity: Tesla’s battery packs have proven to last a long time with minimal degradation, which means many 2014 S85 models still offer respectable range.
Lower Maintenance Costs: Electric vehicles (EVs) have fewer moving parts compared to gasoline cars, leading to lower maintenance requirements (no oil changes, fewer repairs).
8. Environmental Impact
Sustainable Choice: Driving an electric vehicle reduces reliance on fossil fuels, contributing to lower carbon emissions, which is crucial in addressing climate change.
Recycling Initiatives: Tesla has put efforts into battery recycling, reducing the overall environmental footprint of its vehicles.
9. Resale Value
Strong Resale Value: Despite being older, Tesla vehicles generally hold their value well due to their cutting-edge technology and desirable brand reputation.
In summary, the Tesla Model S85 (2014) offers a combination of luxury, performance, range, and eco-friendliness, making it an attractive option for buyers who want a stylish, technologically advanced electric car even in today’s market.