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Tesla Reveals its All-Wheel-Drive System and Autopilot Tech

(Credit: Tesla Motors )

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Tesla Reveals its All-Wheel-Drive System and Autopilot Tech

2014 Tesla Model S

2014 Tesla Model S (Credit: Tesla Motors )

Tesla has finally revealed the “D,” and as expected, it is an all-wheel-drive powertrain for the already insanely awesome Model S. But it is more than just that, as according to Autoblog, Tesla boss Elon Musk claims “literally everything improves about the car.”

As I speculated when I first received reports that the “D” would be an all-wheel-drive system, this new system also makes the Model S a better performer, but even I didn’t expect the massive improvements that Tesla just revealed.

The range-topping Model S P85D jumps to an incredible 691 horsepower, which is a 221-horsepower increase over the base Model S P85. This allows the P85D to sprint to 60 mph in just 3.2 seconds, hit 155 mph and drive up to 275 miles on a single charge. Those numbers account for a one-second drop in 0-to-60 time, a 15-mph increase in top speed and a 10-mile range boost. The P85D will be available in December 2014 at a starting price of $120,170.

Tesla also revealed that the “D” will also be available on its 60 and 85 models. The Model S 60D will benefit from 376 horses, a 125-mph top speed, a 5.7-second 0-to-60-mph sprint time and a 225-mile range. The Model S 85D carries the same 376 horsepower as the 60D, but its top speed rises to 155 mph and its range jumps to 295 miles, while its 0-to-60 mph time drops to 5.2 seconds. The 60D and 85D will be available in February 2014 at a price of $91,070 and $99,070, respectively.

Also revealed was Tesla’s Autopilot, which integrates a long-range forward radar, an image-recognizing camera that can read signs and detect pedestrians, and a 360-degree long-range sonar into the Model S’ GPS, steering system and braking system. This system is essentially an auto-driving feature, but it does not have enough redundant safety features to qualify as one. Some of the highlights of the Autopilot system include automatically changing lanes when the driver activates the turn signal, recognizing speed limit signs and adjusting speed accordingly, and automatically parking. The last feature is particularly interesting, as the car will literally drop the driver off at his front door, drive itself to its designated parking spot and shut down without any human assistance. Additionally, you can have the car meet you at the front door when it’s time to leave again.

The technology required to make the Autopilot system work is standard on the Model S, but the software upgrade to unlock all of its features is part of a $4,250 Tech Package.

If you’re like me and drool over the technology behind the Model S, then this news likely has you looking for items to sell in order to afford one.

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