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Electric vehicles are gaining traction. Top car manufacturers are embracing electric vehicle technology for sustainability and zero-emission engines. With the ever-rising fuel prices, many people are making the switch to electric cars.
Tesla has been on the frontline in the electric vehicle market. Its cars are known for their unique designs, high performance, and advanced features. Tesla’s modern vehicles are designed for efficiency, high acceleration, and incredible range. The range of an EV is a significant concern for many buyers. People want to know how long the vehicle can go on a single charge to determine whether it fits their travel needs well. In this regard, Tesla has excelled at producing powerful models with 300-400 miles of range.
Each Tesla Model Range
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The minimum range for a single charge on any Tesla car is 272 miles, but the actual range depends on driving behavior and battery size. Currently, Tesla’s longest-range option offers up to 405 miles per charge. Similar to a gasoline engine, the estimated range varies depending on driving conditions. So, even with a full charge, aggressive driving may result in slightly less than the estimated range. Below chart shows the different ranges for Tesla’s Model 3, Model S, SUV Model X, and Model Y after a full charge.
| Model | Range |
|---|---|
| Model 3 Standard Range | 272 miles |
| Model 3 Performance | 315 miles |
| Model 3 Long Range | 358 miles |
| Model S | 405 miles |
| Model S Plaid | 396 miles |
| Model X | 351 miles |
| Model X Plaid | 333 miles |
| Model Y Long Range | 330 miles |
| Model Y Performance | 303 miles |
The good thing is that Tesla has its Superchargers scattered in almost all the states in the country, so whichever model you choose, you are sure to get enough charge for your daily commute or road trips with friends.
Why Is The Range Different For Each Tesla Model?
The range varies across the different Tesla models for the following reasons:
Battery size
The mileage range of a Tesla car depends on its battery size. The Model 3, which has the smallest battery, can travel up to 272 miles on a full charge, while the Model S Plaid, which has a larger battery, can travel up to 405 miles on a single charge.
The cost of a Tesla car also varies with the battery size. Model 3 Standard Range, which has the smallest battery, is the cheapest option at around $43,490, and the Model S Plaid, which has a larger battery, costs around $114,990.
Unlike most EV batteries, Tesla cars offer high battery capacity for a more extended range and fast charging capabilities. This means that Tesla owners can enjoy the benefits of both features in their electric vehicles.
Model
Tesla designed the Model 3 as a more affordable electric vehicle option by equipping it with a smaller internal battery. Generally, the cost of an EV is determined by the battery size, with larger batteries providing more mileage range at a higher cost.
The Model 3 is an excellent option for daily commuting or running errands due to its practicality and affordability. While comparable to the Nissan Leaf or Chevy Volt, the Tesla offers a more aesthetically appealing design and a higher mileage range.
Long Range Models, such as the Model S, provide exceptional acceleration, reaching 0-60mph in as little as 3.1 seconds. For those seeking an electric car that outperforms its gas-powered counterparts, a Long Range Model is a great choice.
The Plaid Model shares many features with the Long Range but offers additional enhancements, such as improved interior styling, a carbon fiber spoiler, and advanced traction control. The Performance Model provides even quicker acceleration, reaching 0-60mph in just 1.99 seconds.
Your Driving Habits
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Like traditional internal combustion engine cars, driving at high speeds consistently can cause your electric car’s battery to deplete more quickly, reducing the vehicle’s overall range. Additionally, driving in unfavorable weather conditions, such as snowy or rainy weather, headwinds, or freezing temperatures, can impact the battery’s performance.
To ensure optimal range, it’s recommended to drive at a safe speed, maintain properly inflated tires, brake gently, and reduce the car’s weight wherever possible. Proper maintenance and care of your Tesla vehicle will also help extend the car’s lifespan and the battery.
How Long Do Tesla Batteries Last?
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According to Elon Musk, Tesla car batteries are designed to last 300,000-500,000 miles or about 21-35 years based on the average amount of miles driven per year by Americans. However, a battery replacement may still be needed during the car’s lifetime. Reports suggest that replacing a Model 3 battery costs between $5,000 to $7,000, but replacement costs are expected to drop as battery costs decrease.
While there are conflicting reports on battery life, a Tesla battery may still function after 500,000 miles with a reduced mileage range per charge. Daily full recharges and driving over 300 miles per day can put a strain on battery life.
Tesla’s Battery Warranty
According to Musk, replacing a battery for a Model 3 car can cost between $5,000 to $7,000, but there haven’t been many reported cases of electric cars needing battery replacement. These prices are expected to decrease as battery costs decrease over time.
While some claims about high battery replacement costs are unconfirmed, recharging can contribute to battery degradation and shorten battery life in the long run, especially if the battery is charged from empty to full daily. However, Tesla’s battery technology is designed to improve vehicle reliability over time, with studies indicating only a 10% decrease in performance after 160,000 miles.
In the rare case that a Tesla battery experiences Degradation or fails, the battery is covered by Tesla’s warranty, which typically lasts for 8 years or 100,000 to 150,000 miles, depending on the model. This means that a Model Y can be driven up to 15,000 miles a year or 41 miles a day within the warranty period, while Model X and Model S cars can be driven up to 18,750 miles a year or 52 miles a day before their warranty expires.
Here is the battery warranty for each model:
| Model | Battery Warranty |
|---|---|
| Model 3 Standard Range | 8 years or 100,000 miles |
| Model 3 Long Range/ Performance | 8 years or 120,000 miles |
| Model Y Long Range | 8 years or 120,000 miles |
| Model Y Performance | 8 years or 120,000 miles |
| Model S | 8 years or 150,000 miles |
| Model X | 8 years or 150,000 miles |
Tesla Charging Options
Tesla uses different lithium-ion batteries for each model based on their unique features. For instance, Model X and Model S use a 100-kilowatt-hour battery to store more power on a single charge. The time taken to charge depends on the car model and EV charger used. Tesla’s Performance and Long Range Models come with an 11.5-kilowatt-hour onboard charger, allowing a 60-kilowatt-hour battery to charge in 6 hours. However, as of this year, wall chargers are no longer included in Tesla car shipments.
Tesla offers Superchargers that charge up to a range of 200 miles in just 15 minutes for a fee. However, it is important to note that fast charging can strain the EV batteries and affect the car’s longevity. The Level 1/Level 2 Tesla Charger by Lectron is an affordable solution to charge both at home and on the road. Additionally, Tesla drivers can use charging stations like the Lectron V-BOX 40A and 48A and the Lectron J1772 to Tesla adapter to fully charge their EV batteries overnight.
Fully Charged Tesla vs. Gas-Powered Cars
Tesla cars offer top-of-the-line mileage range and battery life, making them a leader among electric vehicles. However, their price range of $40,000 to $125,000 is significantly more expensive than many gas-powered cars. While traditional vehicles generally have longer ranges, the Model S comes closest to matching them with a battery life of 405 miles. As EV battery technology continues to improve, likely, EVs will eventually outperform traditional cars in terms of range.
Despite the higher upfront cost, driving an electric car like a Tesla will save you money in the long run, especially given the current high gasoline prices. Using solar panels to charge your Tesla is an even more cost-effective option, as the electricity is free and renewable. There may be opportunities for renewable energy industries, such as the EV and solar industries, to integrate and collaborate in the future.
How to Protect Tesla Battery from Degradation
If you own a Tesla, taking care of your battery is crucial to ensure its longevity and save money on potential replacements. Here are some tips for maintaining your Tesla battery capacity:
Limit Supercharger use
Supercharging generates heat that can degrade lithium-ion batteries. Only use Superchargers when necessary to avoid affecting the lifespan and capacity of your Tesla’s battery.
Avoid charging above 80% unless needed
lithium-ion batteries are not meant to be fully charged as this can strain the battery and lead to faster degradation. Also, Tesla cars tend to have a problem with regenerative braking when charged to a full charge which may affect the car’s efficiency. Generally, a battery charge of around 40% to 80% is sufficient.
Stick to a regular charging schedule
Establishing a consistent charging schedule with lower voltage home chargers and charging stations can help reduce strain on your battery.
Drive smoothly
Avoid sudden changes in acceleration, as excessive acceleration for extended periods can quickly drain your battery, reduce your vehicle’s range, and wear out your tires faster.
The Cost to Replace Tesla Battery
If you need to replace your Tesla battery and it’s out of warranty, expect to pay anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000. This will depend on factors such as the model of your car, taxes, and labor cost in your area. To keep the replacement cost down, Tesla often uses remanufactured battery packs with the same or higher capacity than the original pack. Customers won’t experience any range loss with this option.
