2021 Tesla Model S Review: Performance, Design and Specs
The 2021 Tesla Model S is probably the version with the most design changes. In previous years, the Model S only received performance and technology updates. By 2020, perhaps Tesla realized that they needed to change the design of the Model S. So, what's new in the 2021 version? Let's explore it in this review!
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Overview of 2021 Tesla Model S
In 2021, Model S is updated with a Plaid version with super powerful performance. Additionally, the interior was changed with the control screen to be vertical. The difference comes from the steering wheel, redesigned into a U-shape, which looks very sporty and dynamic.
2021 Model S Exterior Design
Exterior Design
The exterior remains unchanged compared to 2020, Model S still retains its classic, minimalist look. The front of the car has a small shield with the Tesla logo in the middle. LED lights are designed to be very modern. The body of the car still has aerodynamic bevels to help better air escape. Tesla has offered options for wheels, including 19 and 20 inches. The rear of the car is also simply designed with a rear temple cluster and interwoven red and white lenses.
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Color Options
- Midnight Silver Metallic
- Red Multi-Coat
- Solid Black
- Deep Blue Metallic
- Pearl White Multi-Coat
2021 Model S Interior Design
Interior Design
As mentioned, the 2021 Tesla Model S has a redesigned interior that looks newer. Specifically, the steering wheel is designed into a U-shape, bringing a dynamic feeling when driving. However, users are quite uncomfortable at first using it because they are not used to it. Additionally, the 17-inch screen is placed vertically for better visibility.
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Seat Design
The design remains the same with 5 seats. The seats have leather upholstery options and can be adjusted for maximum comfort. In addition, the legroom also has a comfortable space to help passengers have the most comfortable sitting position. In inclement weather, the seats also have heating mode.
Interior Color Options
- All Black, leatherette
- Cream, leatherette
- Black and White, leatherette
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2021 Tesla Model S Performance and Driving
Performance and engine
Model S Long Range is equipped with a 100 kWh battery with a range of 402 miles on a single charge. The dual electric motors produce 670 hp and 687 lb-ft of torque. Long Range is capable of accelerating from 0-96 km/h in 3.1s and has a top speed of 250 km/h. With a 100 kwh battery, the Model S takes 13 hours to fully charge with a 240V outlet, but only takes 15 minutes if using Supercharger.
The Model S Performance is also equipped with a 100 kwh lithium-ion battery with the same charging time. This electric vehicle has a capacity of 670 horsepower and 687 lb-ft of torque. Performance has a lower operating range, 390 miles, but has better acceleration, from 0-96 km/h in 1.9s. The car reaches a maximum speed of up to 332 km/h.
Model S Plaid is the most advanced version with a 130 kWh battery, a range of 290 miles. With dual electric motors with a capacity of 1020 horsepower, Plaid can reach a speed of 96 km/h in just 1.9 seconds. Maximum speed reaches 332 km/h. This was the car with the best acceleration at the time.
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Charging and Battery
Powered by a 100 kWh / 10 kWh lithium-ion battery, the Model S is considered one of the most powerful electric sedans. Charging time at home takes about 13 hours to fully charge. Meanwhile, if you use the Tesla Supercharger, it only takes 15 minutes for you to have a full battery.
Driving
With a more powerful engine, the Model S's driving experience is also much better. Acceleration is one of the most rewarding experiences. In addition, the automatic braking system helps the driver feel more secure when traveling at high speed.
The Model S's ability to turn is unquestionable. Low chassis and extremely grippy wheels make turning and steering easy. However, the new steering wheel design is not easy to get used to. It will take time for the driver to master it.'
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Safety
The Autopilot feature uses four cameras and sensors to monitor blind spots and improve safety, while also supporting semi-autonomous operation in various situations.
Automatic emergency braking can self-assess the situation and make decisions. In specific situations, the vehicle can activate the automatic brake to ensure safety.
In addition, the lane departure warning system will monitor with a camera to give warnings if the vehicle crosses into another lane.
2021 Model S Technology
The 17-inch screen has a built-in google map to help the Model S have better navigation. The 22-speaker sound system is quite excellent, with high volume and radiates throughout the cabin.
Tesla does not integrate Apple Carplay and Android Auto but can still connect to the phone using bluetooth. Basic ports are also equipped such as USB Type C, USB type A.
AutoPilot on Tesla cars is known over the world for its self-driving assist. In basic situations, Autopilot handles very well, bringing peace of mind to users. But for places with bad terrain, Autopilot proved quite useless.
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2021 Tesla Model S Pricing
- 2020 Model S Long Range: $89,990
- 2020 Model S Performance: $94,990
- 2020 Model S Plaid: $129,990
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2021 Model S Pros and Cons
Pros
- Impressive Driving Range: With a range of up to 402 miles on a single charge, the 2021 Model S is rated as the best range electric sedan in the world.
- Excellent Acceleration: Model s can accelerate from 0-96 km/h in less than 2 seconds. This is the best accelerating car in the world. In addition, moving at high speed does not make noise like gasoline cars.
- Useful Supercharger Network: By being integrated into the supercharger network, the Model S can go anywhere in the world. With just 15 minutes of charging, the Model S will have a full battery, allowing you to comfortably step on the accelerator.
- Huge Cargo capacity: With a minimalist design, the Model S has a lot of space for storage. According to the specs, the Model S has a maximum capacity of 64.5 cubic feet. Remember, this is just a compact, high-end sedan.
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Cons
- The new steering wheel is difficult to use: The U-shaped steering wheel design first used on the Model S makes users feel unfriendly. Therefore, it will take a little time to get used to.
- The interior design is not luxurious: Despite interior improvements, the Model S is still criticized for not being luxurious. Because inherently, the core minimalism from Lotus still cannot be abandoned
- No Apple Carplay and Android Auto integration: Over the years, Tesla still hasn't integrated Apple Carplay and Android Auto on the Model S. Perhaps, Tesla wants its cars to use its own control system rather than using 3rd party applications.
2021 Tesla Model S SPecs
| Version | Detail |
| Model Year | 2021 |
| Engine Options | dual Electric Motors |
| Horsepower | 670 - 1020 hp options |
| Range | 345 - 405 miles options |
| Charging Time | 15h (240v), 15m (Supercharger) |
| Torque | 487 lb-ft @ 0 rpm, 723 lb-ft @ 0 rpm |
| Transmission Options | 1-speed direct drive |
| Drivetrain | All wheel drive |
| Top Speed | 250 - 322 km/h |
| Acceleration 0-96 km/h | 1.9s - 3.1s options |
| Fuel Efficiency | 124/115 MPG Options |
| Wheelbase | 116.5 inches |
| Overall Length | 197.7 inches |
| Overall Width | 86.2 inches |
| Overall Height | 56.3 inches |
| Ground Clearance | 5.0 inches |
| Payload Capacity | 64.5 cubic feet |
| Seating Capacity | 5 passengers |
| Infotainment Screen Size | 17 inches |
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FAQs
When do 2021 Tesla Model S come out?
The 2021 Tesla Model S was officially launched on June 10, 2021.
Do all 2021 Tesla Model S have autopilot?
Yes, all versions of the 2021 Model S are all equipped with autopilot features.
How many Tesla Model S sold in 2021?
Tesla sold 40,754 units of Model S in the first half of 2021.
How much is a 2021 Tesla Model S?
Depending on the versions, the Model S will have a price ranging from $66,000 to $89,500
Does 2021 Tesla Model S have free Supercharging?
Before 2017, customers could use Tesla's supercharger network for free. However, nowadays, to use it, customers have to pay a little fee.
Can 2021 Tesla Model S park itself?
Yes, the 2021 Tesla Model S is equipped with an "Autopilot" feature that includes an Enhanced Autopilot package, which offers several advanced driver assistance features, including the ability to park itself called as “Summon”
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Conclusion
2021 Tesla Model S continues to affirm its position by continuously being among the top best-selling electric cars in the world. Although there are many limitations in design, the Model S is still the most premium electric car worth owning. Hopefully in the coming years, Tesla will present to the world the most perfect and ideal version of Model S.
2021 Tesla Model S Video
Jame Daniel
