When it comes to eco-friendly cars, the typical choices may not appeal to most people. Brown rice eco cars are like cod liver oil – good for you, but not as enticing as a plate of steak and chips. The Toyota Prius and the G-Wiz are efficient, but lack the appeal to make an ordinary person want one.
However, there is an eco electric car that stands out above the rest – the Tesla. Made in California and based on the Lotus Elise, the Tesla offers impressive looks and performance that sets it apart from traditional electric cars.
Performance and Efficiency
The Tesla proves to be more than just looks. It boasts impressive acceleration, going from 0 to 60 in just 3.9 seconds with a top speed of 125 mph. The electric motor, despite being the size of a watermelon and having only one moving part, delivers exceptional power. Additionally, filling it with cheap rate electricity costs just £3.50, a fraction of the cost of filling a petrol car.
Battery and Charging
Equipped with 6,831 laptop batteries, the Tesla can travel up to 200 miles between charges. While this means added weight that affects handling, it’s a small trade-off for the impressive range. However, recharging the car fully from a normal socket takes 16 hours, presenting a significant challenge for long-distance travel.
Challenges and Cost
Charging the Tesla using renewable sources like wind power or solar energy also presents challenges due to the time it takes. Additionally, the Tesla comes with a hefty price tag of £92,000, making it considerably more expensive than traditional cars.
Reliability and Real-world Performance
There have been concerns about the Tesla’s reliability, with reported issues during testing. While it showcases an incredible technical achievement, it seems to fall short in real-world scenarios.
Stig’s Test Drive
The Stig, known for his exceptional driving skills, put the Tesla to the test on the track. The Tesla’s performance was notable, matching the time of a Porsche 911 gt3 under similar conditions.
Overall, the Tesla impresses with its performance and range, but its high cost and charging limitations may hinder its widespread adoption. However, with advancements in technology and production, it may become a more viable option in the future.
What is the Tesla electric car?
The Tesla is an electric car made in California and based on the Lotus Elise. It is known for its impressive speed and eco-friendly features.
What are the advantages of the Tesla electric car?
The Tesla can go 200 miles between trips to the plug and costs significantly less to fill with electricity compared to a normal petrol car. It has impressive acceleration, reaching 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds.
What are the drawbacks of the Tesla electric car?
Charging the Tesla from a normal 13 amp socket takes 16 hours, and it may run out of charge after only 55 miles under certain conditions. It is also significantly more expensive than petrol cars, costing 92,000 pounds.