The Tesla Model S is a smooth operator

First up was the orientation on the vehicle, which was really entertaining and amazing at the same time. But when the Tesla representative offered a test drive, I jumped at the opportunity, having had my international drivers licence on hand.

I have to say upfront that it felt uneasy or perhaps a little uncomfortable driving a left-handed vehicle on the right-hand side of the European roads, which is a complete opposite to our vehicles and road structure here in South Africa.

Electric cars everywhere

Sustainable energy is all the rage in Europe and it's clearly amazing just how many electric cars are on the roads. On day one, I counted approximately 200 electric cars, of most makes and models. And if you thought that charging stations are going to be a hindrance to your ride or journey, then stop and think again. There are numerous charging stations scattered throughout the city and on the outskirts of the scenic countryside.

South African Elon Musk had an incredible dream when he thought out the Tesla and whilst early productions began to falter somewhat, it was pleasing to see that production is now in full swing and the company is now posting very moderate profit margins.

Every Tesla vehicle is designed to be the safest and quickest vehicle in its class. Equipped with the most advanced active safety features on earth, and capable of accelerating from zero to 100kmph in as little as 2.7 seconds. Amazing, isn’t it!

Your own renewable energy

Tesla offers the world’s first complete clean energy solution, allowing you to generate, store and use your own renewable energy. I drove the Model S, which is built from the ground up, as an electric vehicle, with high-strength architecture and a floor-mounted battery pack allowing for incredible impact protection. The traction and road handling is about the best I have driven.

Active Safety

Every Model S comes standard with the most advanced active safety features. The Side Collision Warning adds to the safety features of the vehicle in that it avoids potential collisions with fast-approaching vehicles. Being a fully electric vehicle, I found the vehicle to be predictively responsive when accelerating, so much so that you forget that you are driving in the city.

The braking dynamics of the car was equally pleasing and reassuring. All Tesla models detect objects and automatically apply brakes to prevent impact. With unparalleled performance delivered through Tesla's unique, all-electric powertrain, Model S accelerates and decelerates with ease. Model S comes with Autopilot capabilities designed to make your highway driving not only safer but stress-free. How’s that for technology?

Smooth operator

Model S is built for safety, with all-electric architecture designed to provide protection from every side - the position and weight of the floor-mounted battery pack provides a very low centre of gravity, allowing for the lowest rollover risk of any car on the road.

There is no internal combustion engine in Model S, so the crumple zone has greater opportunity to minimise occupant deceleration in the event of frontal impact. The combination of a high-strength central pillar and an energy-absorbing sill structure provides exceptional protection to both the occupant and the under-floor mounted battery pack.

Talk about quick acceleration…

Model S sets an industry standard for performance. Tesla’s all-electric powertrain delivers unparalleled performance in all weather conditions – with Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive and stunning acceleration.

Built around the driver

Model S is built with best in class storage, seating for up to five adults and two children and an expansive 17-inch touchscreen. Everything you would need to know and control is all on the screen. Advanced noise engineering creates sound dynamics comparable to a recording studio, while the standard glass roof provides a spacious interior experience for every passenger.

Every element was designed with the driver and passengers in mind - with uncompromised aesthetics and ludicrous performance. A carbon fibre spoiler provides Model S with incredible aerodynamics and the lowest drag coefficient of any vehicle in its class.

Model S was designed for speed and endurance—with incredible aerodynamics, ludicrous performance and uncompromised aesthetics. Automatic door handles auto-present upon approach and withdraws when closed. The 19- or 21-inch wheels give you that enhanced handling experience, traction.

This is an all-wheel-drive vehicle that literally jumps from 0 to 100km/ph in just 2.7 seconds. The km range once the battery pack fully charged is around 550kms. Warranty is a 4-year basic cover and three years on the battery pack and drivetrain.

This car will set you back an approximate R1.4m upwards.

It’s the Tesla Model S. Its all the rage in Europe. Coming soon to a dealership near you. And we have a South African in Elon Musk to thank.