Tag: Model S

  • Tesla Model S Refresh: Longest Range & New Autopilot Camera

    Tesla Model S Refresh: Longest Range & New Autopilot Camera

    Key Takeaways

    1. The refreshed 2026 Model S and Model X feature a new front bumper camera for enhanced visibility during Autopilot and Smart Summon use.

    2. Improvements in ride comfort, cabin noise, and efficiency are highlighted, resulting from new wheel designs and better aerodynamics.

    3. The 2026 Model S achieves the longest range in Tesla history at an EPA estimate of 410 miles, only with standard Magnetite Wheels.

    4. Upgrading to 21-inch Velarium Wheels decreases the range by 30 miles and adds an extra cost of $4,500.

    5. The price of the refreshed Model S has increased by $5,000 compared to the previous model.


    With the introduction of the refreshed 2026 Model S and Model X, Tesla has highlighted the function of a new front bumper camera. This feature, which is also seen in the Cybertruck and the redesigned Model Y, adds more than just parking assistance.

    Enhanced Visibility Features

    The front camera, positioned just above the grille of the updated Model S, is designed to provide “better visibility when utilizing Autopilot and Actually Smart Summon.” This suggests that its purpose goes beyond mere parking support, raising speculation about whether Tesla might add similar front cameras to the upcoming Model 3 refresh, the last facelifted model lacking this feature.

    Impressive Range and Comfort

    In addition to aesthetic changes like a subtle redesign and multicolor ambient lighting throughout, the refreshed 2026 Model S boasts improvements in ride comfort, cabin noise, and overall efficiency. Tesla acknowledges that the enhanced efficiency largely results from new wheel designs and slightly better aerodynamics, rather than changes to the powertrain, similar to what we see in the latest Model Y.

    The modifications in wheel and body design have contributed to reduced power consumption while driving, leading to better range from the same battery and electric motors.

    Longest Range in Tesla History

    Remarkably, the 2026 Model S now holds the record for the longest range of any Tesla vehicle, with an EPA estimate of 410 miles. Although this is just a modest increase from its predecessor’s range, it positions the Model S Long Range refresh as the farthest-traveling car in Tesla’s entire history.

    It’s important to note that this impressive 410-mile range is only attainable with the standard Model S Magnetite Wheels. Opting for the sleek 21-inch Velarium Wheels results in a decrease of 30 miles in range and adds $4,500 to the price, which has already seen an increase of $5,000 compared to the previous model.

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  • 2026 Tesla Model S Facelift Revealed in New Blue Color

    2026 Tesla Model S Facelift Revealed in New Blue Color

    Key Takeaways

    1. Tesla is preparing to unveil refreshed versions of the luxury Model X and Model S after updating the Model 3 and Model Y.
    2. The 2026 Model S was recently spotted without camouflage, revealing its design changes, including the removal of the contrasting Tesla logo.
    3. The redesign of the Model S has received mixed reviews, with some features looking outdated, but it may still be a temporary testing body.
    4. The new Model S features a painted emblem and a front bumper camera, which is now standard in Tesla’s latest models.
    5. Updates to the powertrain and battery performance for the Model S are still uncertain, but improvements are anticipated given its exceptional range and acceleration capabilities.


    After wrapping up updates for the Model 3 and Model Y, Tesla is gearing up to unveil refreshed versions of its luxury Model X and Model S, both of which have been around for a while now.

    Model S Spotted

    The 2026 Model X has already been seen covered in camouflage, with glimpses of its new interior design being shared. Now, it’s the Model S’s turn to take the spotlight. Recently, the 2026 Model S was caught parked on the roadside, completely free of camouflage on both its front and back ends, showcasing Tesla’s speedy car with the longest range.

    Design Changes

    However, “showcasing” might be a bit generous, as this redesign is somewhat of an acquired taste. The previously contrasting Tesla logo on the front is no longer there, and the rear bumper along with the spoiler seem a bit outdated. Still, the fact that Tesla staff are driving around in it without any camouflage suggests this might not be the final design—it could just be a temporary body kit used for testing while engineers check the internals.

    New Features

    In terms of details, the Tesla emblem is now painted to match the color of the front slit, which looks a bit sharper than before. However, this doesn’t necessarily add an aggressive edge to the car’s appearance, and the new blue paint job fails to give it a sporty vibe. It remains uncertain what kind of updates Tesla will introduce for the Model S’s powertrain or battery, particularly since it’s the only vehicle in their lineup that can exceed 400 miles on a single charge and can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in less than two seconds. Tesla is likely to enhance these impressive features.

    At this point, the only noticeable addition is the front bumper camera, which is standard in Tesla’s latest models, including the Cybertruck and the updated Model Y.

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  • Tesla China Halts US-Made Model S and X Orders Due to Tariffs

    Tesla China Halts US-Made Model S and X Orders Due to Tariffs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Elon Musk warns that Tesla will face repercussions from new US tariffs despite ties with the president.
    2. Tesla has halted orders for the Model S and Model X in China, affecting customers who must import these vehicles.
    3. The shipping process for Model S and Model X can take up to eight months for Chinese buyers.
    4. American goods face an 84 percent import duty due to China’s retaliatory tariffs, raising prices for Tesla’s high-end models.
    5. Model S and Model X accounted for less than 4 percent of Tesla’s sales last quarter, suggesting limited short-term impact from halted orders.


    Tesla CEO Elon Musk has expressed concerns that his company, despite its close ties to the president, will still face the repercussions of the new tariffs set by the current US government. This warning seems to be coming true, as Tesla’s operations in China have halted orders for the Model S and Model X.

    Impact on Chinese Customers

    Customers in China wishing to buy Tesla’s two most expensive electric vehicles must import them from the United States, making them susceptible to the ongoing trade tensions between the two countries. The shipping process for the Model S and Model X can take as long as eight months for buyers in China. Unfortunately, even those willing to endure the long wait can no longer place orders, as Tesla has replaced the “Order Now” buttons on these models’ websites with “View Now.” In contrast, the Model 3 and Model Y are still available for purchase, as they are produced in Shanghai.

    Tariffs and Sales

    As a result of China’s retaliatory tariffs, American goods now face a staggering 84 percent import duty. Adding these extra costs to the already high prices of the Model S and Model X could render them unaffordable for a lot of Chinese consumers. Nevertheless, it’s worth noting that these two models accounted for less than 4 percent of Tesla’s sales in the previous quarter, suggesting that the automaker may not experience significant short-term effects from this halt in orders from China.

    Tesla’s operations in China are currently navigating a complex landscape, balancing tariffs and supply issues while trying to maintain a foothold in one of the world’s largest electric vehicle markets.

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  • Tesla Provides Lifetime Free Supercharging for Powerful Vehicles

    Tesla Provides Lifetime Free Supercharging for Powerful Vehicles

    When Tesla launched free lifetime Supercharging for the Model S, it quickly became a hit, even though its charging network was just starting out.

    Years later, those Model S vehicles that include free lifetime Supercharging still fetch higher prices in the resale market. This is true despite the fact that early models, particularly those made before 2016, had a known design flaw in the battery housing that caused failures.

    Battery Replacement Boosts Value

    If the battery was swapped out under warranty, or by the previous owner, and the valve issue was fixed, the Model S with free charging became even more desirable. The same applies to the Model X, which was sold with transferable free Supercharging until March 2017.

    Fresh Incentives for Sales

    Tesla is currently looking to attract buyers in America and Europe for its pricier high-performance models, the Model S and Model X, by offering the same free Supercharging incentive to boost sales. Given that the Model S and Model X make up a small portion of Tesla’s total sales, they’re not losing a lot with this offer. Additionally, the price of the Model X has been raised, putting it above the federal tax credit limit. Elon Musk likely understands that the Trump administration might eliminate the EV tax credit program, similar to what happened with the national EV charging network, so Tesla could be adjusting its incentives accordingly.

    Changes to the Offer

    However, the free lifetime Supercharging deal for the Model S and Model X isn’t exactly the same as the initial offer. The original deal was transferable, while the current offer has specific terms:

    Customers who buy or lease a new Model S can enjoy free Supercharging as long as they own the vehicle. This offer is linked to the Tesla account and can’t be transferred to a different vehicle, person, or order, even if ownership changes. Used cars, business orders, and vehicles used for commercial purposes (like rideshares or deliveries) are not eligible. Owners are still responsible for Supercharger fees, including idle and congestion charges, if they apply. This promotion can be combined with other offers, but Tesla has the right to revoke free Supercharging if there are excessive charges or unpaid fees. The promotion may change or end at any time.

    In essence, while the free lifetime Supercharging for the Model S or Model X lasts as long as the buyer owns the vehicle—potentially up to 20 years—it is linked to the buyer’s Tesla account and cannot be passed on to the next owner. This keeps the resale value of the car elevated for a longer time.

    Recent Trends in Offers

    Tesla has applied this new approach to all its free lifetime Supercharging offers recently, including the one for the Cybertruck, as well as limited-time promotions used to clear out inventory in the last two quarters.

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  • Tesla Responds to High Fatality Crash Rate with Model 3 Safety Data

    Tesla Responds to High Fatality Crash Rate with Model 3 Safety Data

    Tesla’s chief engineer, Lars Moravy, is actively countering claims from a recent report that states Teslas have the highest fatality crash rate among all vehicles. He argues that the report’s conclusions are misleading.

    Report Overview

    The report examined data from the federal U.S. Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS), which is managed by the NHTSA. It focused on accidents involving cars from the 2018 to 2022 model years that resulted in at least one death, either for drivers or passengers.

    In this analysis, Tesla emerged as the brand with the highest fatality crash rate overall. Although the Hyundai Venue held the worst record for individual models, the Model S had a fatality rate that was twice the average, while the popular Model Y of Tesla had a crash death rate nearly four times higher than average. This placed it among the top 10 most dangerous vehicles in the U.S., according to the study.

    Issues with Comparisons

    However, while it may seem accurate to label Tesla as having the highest fatality rate based on the FARS data, this comparison is flawed. Tesla has significantly fewer models on the market compared to other manufacturers, which often offer a wider range of vehicles.

    In defense of Tesla, Moravy asserted, “the math is incorrect – crash test data is real; Teslas are among the safest cars.” He suggested that the calculations might suffer from a poor denominator, noting that by the end of 2022, U.S. model year miles driven exceeded 7 billion, with the Model 3 alone at around 19 billion. While Tesla’s safety data from crash tests is indeed impressive, it doesn’t necessarily explain the fatality rates in real-world accidents, which could be influenced by many factors.

    Additional Information

    If you’re in the market for charging solutions, you can find the 80A Tesla Gen 2 Wall Connector with a 24-foot cable on Amazon.

    Source: Link,Link


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  • Tesla Sentry Mode Will No Longer Power Devices

    Tesla Sentry Mode Will No Longer Power Devices

    With the new software update version 2024.32.6, Tesla is introducing a feature called Light Pulsing for the Sentry Mode in the refreshed Model S and Model X.

    Gentle Warning System

    Light Pulsing works by gently blinking the headlights when it senses a potential threat, creating a warning effect by increasing and decreasing the brightness. While this addition is nice, it’s worth noting that other Tesla models have included Light Pulsing since last year, indicating that this might not be the most exciting feature in the latest update.

    Power Cutbacks in Sentry Mode

    Earlier this year, Tesla’s previous battery head hinted at the company’s efforts to significantly cut down power usage while the vehicle is in theft-prevention mode. A new feature seems to be addressing this concern for almost all models, except for the Cybertruck, by disabling outlet power. Now, the 12V outlets and USB ports in Tesla cars will not function when the vehicle is in Sentry Mode, also cutting off the devices connected to them.

    This affects a variety of devices, from portable fridges hooked to the 12V outlets to laptops or phones that were charging in the car. When the Tesla is in Sentry Mode, these items will no longer receive power, which can be quite inconvenient for those relying on a portable fridge to keep their drinks cold.

    A Trade-off for Security

    Tesla owners still have the option to use Camp Mode to power their devices, but this means the car remains unlocked, which is the opposite of the security that many drivers seek from Sentry Mode. It’s uncertain how effective this power-cutting measure will be in reducing battery drain during Sentry Mode, but reports indicate that Tesla Service teams are already hearing frustration from customers and are relaying this feedback to higher management for review.


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