The Tesla Model S P100D | Chris Harris Drives | Top Gear - Summary

Summary

A car reviewer tests the Tesla Model S P100D, noting its impressive acceleration, reaching 150mph in a drag race against a Porsche 911. However, he criticizes the car for being a "one-trick pony" that excels only in straight-line acceleration. On the road, the reviewer finds the ride to be "not bad" but notes some vertical movement and noise in the cabin. He also mentions the regenerative braking system, which can be disconcerting in traffic.

The reviewer praises the car's quietness and sure-footedness on the road, but notes that the steering lacks feel. He also comments on the car's weight, which contributes to its stability. Despite initial reservations, the reviewer is impressed by the car's handling and ride quality.

The reviewer also discusses the car's technical features, including its massive touchscreen and autopilot system. He notes that the car's performance is "brutally effective" but also "brutal on one's tummy," causing motion sickness in his passengers.

Overall, the reviewer concludes that the Tesla Model S P100D is a technically impressive car that excels in certain areas, but may not be the most engaging or exciting car to drive.

Facts

1. The car being reviewed is a Tesla Model S P100D.
2. The reviewer is at Bruntingthorpe to test the car's speed.
3. The reviewer has never driven a Tesla Model S before.
4. The car has a "Ludicrous Mode" that needs to be activated to achieve maximum speed.
5. To activate Ludicrous Mode, the driver must press the "Ludicrous" icon in the drive settings for five seconds and select "Yes, bring it on".
6. Activating Ludicrous Mode causes the car's computer to display a warning message about accelerated wear on the motor, gearbox, and battery.
7. The reviewer drag races the Tesla Model S against a Porsche 911.
8. The Tesla Model S wins the drag race, reaching 0-100 mph in a shorter time than the Porsche 911.
9. The reviewer notes that the Tesla Model S has a very narrow operating window, and the battery temperature must be within a certain range for optimal performance.
10. The car has a "Regenerative Braking" system that can cause it to stop more quickly than expected.
11. The reviewer notes that the car's ride is not bad, but there is some vertical movement that can cause a bumpy ride.
12. The car has a very quiet cabin, with minimal noise from the electric motor.
13. The reviewer notes that the car's autopilot system is very impressive and can detect the car's surroundings with ease.
14. The car's big screen is very impressive and is double the size of any screen the reviewer has seen in another car.
15. The reviewer notes that the car's acceleration is very addictive and can be quite fun.
16. The car weighs 2,240 kilograms.
17. The car has a claimed range of 381 miles.
18. The car's top speed is 155 miles per hour.
19. The car's power output is rated at 603 horsepower.
20. The car has a torque rating of 713 pounds per feet.