The 2015 Tesla Model S 85D with the „EU Autopilot“ (now often referred to as Autopilot 1 or AP1) and Free Unlimited Supercharging is a highly sought-after configuration on the used market for several very specific and compelling reasons.
Here is a detailed outline of its benefits, broken down into categories.
1. The „Holy Grail“: Free Unlimited Supercharging (FUSC)
This is the single biggest financial benefit and a major reason for its high resale value.
Truly Unlimited & Transferable: This benefit is tied to the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), not the owner. This means it transfers to every subsequent owner for the life of the car, making it a permanent feature. You pay $0 for electricity at Tesla Superchargers, ever.
Significant Cost Savings: For long-distance travel or frequent top-ups, the savings on „fuel“ are substantial compared to both gasoline cars and newer Teslas that pay per kWh. A few long road trips a year can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Convenience: It removes the mental calculation of „how much will this charge cost?“ and makes spontaneous long trips more economical.
2. Autopilot 1 (AP1) – A Proven and Reliable System
The 2015 Model S was the first to introduce the hardware for Tesla’s Autopilot suite. This specific system has a unique advantage.
Mature and Stable Software: AP1 was developed in partnership with Mobileye and uses a single, forward-facing camera, radar, and 360-degree ultrasonic sensors. The software has been refined over the years and is considered very stable and predictable for its capabilities. It doesn’t have the same „growing pains“ as Tesla’s newer in-house systems.
Core Autopilot Features: It excels at its intended functions:
Traffic-Aware Cruise Control (TACC): Maintains speed and a set distance from the car ahead.
Autosteer: Keeps the car centered in its lane on highways.
Self-Parking: Both parallel and perpendicular parking.
Lane Change Assist: Initiated by the driver using the turn signal.
No „Beta“ Software: Unlike newer „Full Self-Driving“ packages, AP1 is a complete, driver-assist system without the complexities or subscription fees of more advanced (and sometimes unfinished) systems.
3. The „D“ (Dual Motor) All-Wheel Drive Advantage
The „85D“ designation is crucial. The „D“ stands for Dual Motor, meaning it has one motor powering the front wheels and one for the rear.
Superior Traction & Safety: AWD provides significantly better grip, stability, and control in adverse weather conditions like rain, snow, and ice.
Enhanced Performance: The dual motors provide instant torque to all four wheels, resulting in very quick acceleration (0-60 mph in about 4.2 seconds) that feels effortless and planted.
Improved Efficiency: Tesla’s dual-motor system is designed to optimize efficiency by intelligently transferring power between the front and rear motors as needed.
4. Vehicle Specifications & Build Quality
85 kWh Battery: For its time, this was a large battery offering a solid range. A 2015 85D in good health today should still deliver an estimated 230-250 miles (370-400 km) of range on a full charge, which is ample for daily use and long trips supported by the free Supercharging network.
2015 Refreshes: Mid-2015 models („Refresh“ or face-lift models) received several key upgrades over earlier years:
Front Fascia: The look was updated from a black „nose cone“ to a more modern, body-colored front end that aligns with current Tesla styling.
Full LED Headlights: Improved lighting and a more premium look.
Next-Gen Seats: More comfortable and supportive seats.
Cornering Fog Lights: Improved visibility.
Auto-Presenting Door Handles: A small but signature luxury feature.
5. Ownership Experience & Value Proposition
Low Maintenance: As an EV, it has far fewer moving parts than an internal combustion engine (ICE) car. No oil changes, spark plugs, fuel filters, or exhaust systems to worry about.
High-Performance Luxury: You get the silent, instant acceleration of a high-performance EV combined with the luxury features of a premium sedan (large touchscreen, premium audio, glass roof, spacious cargo area).
Strong Community & Support: Tesla has a vast owner community and a growing independent repair network, making ownership easier than ever.
Summary: The Ideal Owner Profile
This specific Tesla Model S configuration is an exceptional value for a specific buyer:
The Frequent Road Tripper: Someone who regularly drives long distances and will maximize the free Supercharging benefit.
The Tech-Savvy Pragmatist: Someone who wants proven, reliable driver-assist technology (AP1) without paying for the premium or the uncertainty of newer „FSD“ systems.
The Value-Seeker: Someone who wants to experience the benefits of a premium, high-performance EV without the steep depreciation of a new model, and who values the long-term „fuel“ savings.
Important Considerations (The Other Side of the Coin)
Battery Degradation: All EV batteries degrade over time. Have an independent pre-purchase inspection done to check the battery’s state of health.
Out-of-Warranty Repairs: The car is now out of its original 8-year battery/drivetrain warranty. Major repairs (though rare) can be expensive.
Older Tech: It lacks the more powerful MCU (media computer) found in newer models, so the touchscreen may be slower, and it doesn’t support newer features like video streaming or Caraoke.
No Hardware for Newer Features: It cannot be upgraded to Autopilot 2.0+ or Full Self-Driving capabilities.
Conclusion: The 2015 Tesla Model S 85D with AP1 and Free Unlimited Supercharging represents a unique sweet spot in the used EV market. It combines a desirable, transferable financial benefit (FUSC) with a proven and capable driver-assist system, all wrapped in a still-modern, high-performance luxury package. For the right buyer, its benefits are substantial and tangible.