The 2015 Tesla Model S85 with the specific options of „Free Unlimited Supercharging“ and „Autopilot“ is a particularly compelling and sought-after vehicle on the used market. Its benefits are a unique combination of timeless technology and valuable, non-transferable perks.
Here is a detailed outline of the benefits, broken down by category:
1. The „Free Unlimited Supercharging“ (The Crown Jewel)
This is the single most significant benefit and a primary reason for its high resale value.
Substantial Long-Term Cost Savings: Eliminates the single largest cost of EV ownership—public charging. On long trips, you can travel hundreds of miles for the price of zero dollars, while gasoline or even paid DC fast charging for other cars can cost $50-$100 per trip.
Unmatched Road Trip Freedom: The psychological and financial freedom of knowing you can use the extensive Tesla Supercharger network without ever receiving a bill is immense. It makes spontaneous long-distance travel much more feasible and affordable.
A Permanently Discontinued Feature: Tesla no longer offers this perk with new car sales (with rare exceptions). This makes older models with „transferable“ or „grandfathered“ Free Unlimited Supercharging highly desirable.
Increases Resale Value: This feature is a major selling point that makes the car more attractive to future buyers than a comparable Tesla without it.
Important Caveat: Always confirm the transferability of the Free Supercharging. For a 2015 model, it typically transfers to subsequent private owners, but it’s crucial to verify this with Tesla or the seller before purchase.
2. The „Autopilot“ System (Hardware & Software)
The 2015 Model S was among the first consumer cars to introduce what is now known as „Hardware 1“ Autopilot. Its benefits are foundational to the modern driving experience.
Reduced Driver Fatigue on Highways: The core benefit. The combination of Traffic-Aware Cruise Control (TACC) and Autosteer allows the car to maintain a set speed and keep itself centered in its lane on highways. This dramatically reduces cognitive and physical load during long commutes or road trips.
Enhanced Safety: The system includes a suite of safety features like:
Forward Collision Warning: Alerts you to potential front-end collisions.
Automatic Emergency Braking: Can apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid a collision.
These features provide an additional layer of safety and can help prevent accidents.
Semi-Automated Driving: While not „Full Self-Driving,“ it is a robust Level 2 driver-assistance system. The driver must remain engaged, but the car handles the steering, acceleration, and braking in its lane.
Proven, Mature Technology: This hardware has been on the road for years, and its core functions are well-established and reliable for their intended use.
3. The „S85“ Powertrain & Performance
The „85“ refers to the 85 kWh battery pack, which was the standard large battery for its time.
Strong Electric Performance: Instant torque provides quick and silent acceleration (0-60 mph in approximately 5.4 seconds), making merging and passing effortless. The driving experience is smooth, quiet, and responsive.
More Than Adequate Range: When new, the EPA range was around 265 miles (426 km). For a 2015 model, a healthy battery should still provide ~200-230 miles of real-world range, which is sufficient for daily commuting and most regional travel.
Low Center of Gravity: The floor-mounted battery pack gives the car excellent handling and stability, feeling planted and secure on the road.
4. Overall Ownership & Practical Benefits
Low „Fuel“ and Maintenance Costs: Even without free Supercharging, charging at home is significantly cheaper than gasoline. EVs have far fewer moving parts, meaning no oil changes, spark plugs, or exhaust systems to worry about. Standard maintenance involves tire rotations, brake fluid, and cabin air filters.
Spacious and Practical: The Model S is a large liftback sedan, offering:
Generous Cargo Space: The rear trunk plus the „frunk“ (front trunk) provide more cargo capacity than many sedans.
Comfort for Five: Ample legroom and headroom for adult passengers.
Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates: Even a 2015 Tesla receives software updates that can improve the user interface, add features, and refine existing functions, keeping the car feeling fresh.
Timeless Design: The Model S design has aged remarkably well. It still looks modern and sleek on the road today.
Summary: The Ideal Owner Profile
This specific 2015 Tesla Model S85 is an excellent choice for:
A tech-savvy buyer who values advanced driver-assistance features.
Someone who frequently takes long-distance road trips and wants to minimize travel costs.
A buyer looking for a premium, practical EV where the initial purchase price is the primary cost, with minimal ongoing „fuel“ and maintenance expenses.
An enthusiast who recognizes the unique value of the discontinued „Free Unlimited Supercharging“ perk.
In conclusion, this particular Model S configuration offers a powerful blend of long-term financial benefit (Free Supercharging), advanced technology (Autopilot), and practical EV ownership that makes it a standout option in the used electric car market.