EV range also decreases over time. Although batteries are lasting much longer than people expected, the usable range of any used EV is something to review.
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Which Tesla models are most likely to meet their advertised range?
The US uses EPA ratings, which are a single range estimate meant to capture a variety of driving conditions. In other words, they are not perfect.
Tesla vehicles often fall short of their EPA-rated range in real-world conditions, typically missing the mark by around 20-25%. This is partly because Tesla’s calculations for EPA range include certain adjustments that may present the car as more efficient than it is in real-world scenarios. Manufacturers have some leeway in how they determine these figures, which can lead to discrepancies between the rated and actual range.
Understanding this can help you set realistic expectations. The following models and trims tend to get ranges closest to their EPA range:
- 2021 Model S - 88% EPA range
- 2023 Model 3 - 78% EPA range
- 2019 Model S - 75% EPA range
- 2022 Model S - 73% EPA range
- 2023 Model Y - 73% EPA range
The worst culprits? Model X from 2017 - 2021 are at the bottom of the list, along with the 2012 Model S.
Remember: while you may not usually achieve the EPA-rated range, most Teslas still deliver more than enough mileage for typical daily driving needs. So even if you don’t reach the official numbers, a Tesla's range will likely be sufficient for most drivers.
If you want to take a peek at how different trims stack up, see the chart below.
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Best and Worst Tesla Models for Day to Day Variance
Every car, whether gas-powered or electric, experiences variations in fuel economy and range from day to day due to changing conditions like weather, road types, and driving styles. For instance, a gas car typically achieves better fuel economy on long highway trips compared to stop-and-go city driving. Conversely, electric vehicles (EVs) are often more efficient in city settings, where regenerative braking can recapture energy in stop-and-go traffic. These differences mean that real-world range can fluctuate significantly. If you’re looking for consistency from day to day, you may want to consider the following trims:
- MODEL X_
- MODEL 3_MID RANGE
- MODEL Y_PERFORMANCE AWD
- MODEL 3_LONG RANGE AWD
- MODEL X_75D
On the other hand, the trim with the highest variability from day to day is the Model 3 Performance AWD.
It’s important to note that range consistency can be majorly influenced by the locations where these vehicles are used. For example, Teslas driven in moderate climates like Southern California may maintain more stable range readings than those operating in extreme cold or mountainous terrain, such as Minnesota or Colorado. The local climate and topography impact energy usage, making range stability a challenge in areas with harsh weather or rugged landscapes.
Best and Worst Tesla Models for the Cost Conscious Shopper
Finally, you may be weighing your options by considering the cost per range mile, or how much range you get for the price. Lower cost per range mile means that most of what you’re paying for is battery, while higher values mean the car may offer luxury options, mind boggling acceleration, or sports car performance.
If you're looking for the most range you can afford, it's no surprise that the Model 3 makes up most of the list. Consider the 2018 Model 3 Long Range, or any year of the Long Range AWD. Early Model Ss are also a cost effective way to get a lot of range - and a sporty car, to boot.
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