Tesla reintroduces 60 kWh version of Model S
09 June 2016
Tesla Motors is reintroducing a 60 kWh version of its Model S, in both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive models. The starting price is $66,000 for the Model S 60 (RWD) and $71,000 for the Model S 60D (AWD).
The Model S 60 has an estimated range of 210 miles; the Model S 60D of 218 miles. For $8,500 (which works out to $566.67/kWh), all Model S 60 customers can upgrade (via a software update) to a 75 kWh pack, extending the range to 249 miles and 259 miles, respectively. I.e, the Model 60s are factory-equipped with a 75 kWh pack software-limited to 60 kWh. (Upgrading to the full 75 kWh costs $9,000 after delivery.)
When the Model S was first introduced, Tesla offered a choice of three battery pack configurations: 40, 60, and 85 kWH packs. In 2013, Tesla dropped the 40 kWh version; in 2015, Tesla dropped the 60 kWh and introduced a 70 kWh version, while first offering an upgrade from the 85 kWh model to 90 kWh and then dropping the 85 kWh configuration entirely.
The current Tesla line-up is thus:
| Base price Model S versions as of 9 June 2016 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Model S | 60 | 60D | 75 | 75D | 90D | P90D |
| Pack capacity (kWh) | 60 | 60 | 75 | 75 | 90 | 90 |
| Est. range (miles) | 210 | 218 | 249 | 259 | 294 | 270 |
| 0-60 mph (seconds) | 5.5 | 5.2 | 5.5 | 5.2 | 4.2 | 3.1 |
| Top speed (mph) | 130 | 130 | 130 | 130 | 155 | 155 |
| Starting price | $66,000 | $71,000 | $74,500 | $79,500 | $89,500 | $109,500 |
As with every Model S, the 60 and 60D will receive free over-the-air software updates that add functionality and continue to improve the driving experience.
It is a shame to have to carry the extra weight around if you have the "smaller" battery.
On the other hand, it allows you to see how you get on with a 60k battery and upgrade if you really need it.
Also, you will not be fully depleting your batteries, so they should last longer.
Posted by: mahonj | 10 June 2016 at 12:19 AM
Tesla does it in order to save production cost by simplifying the production of model S and X. Tesla only have to produce and service to types of battery packs the 75kwh and the 90kwh packs which are identical for Model S and X. To make a separate production line for a 60 kwh battery and also engineer the car and software to fit that battery size does not pay also because only a small percentage of Tesla’s cars are sold as 60kwh model S editions. However, it is important for Tesla to announce a lower starting price for Model S so the 60kwh edition is important to have for marketing reasons. Had the production volume been much higher like the possibly 500k units per year for Model 3 then I do not think Tesla would do it this way. In that case it would be more economical to enginer say 3 different battery sizes for the Model 3.
It is interesting to note that Tesla can get 210 miles out of a car with a 60kwh battery limit and a 75kwh heavy battery for Model S. The model 3 promise 215 miles in a smaller car. I estimate it will just need a 55kwh battery to achieve that. Model 3 will clearly be more efficient than the Bolt.
Posted by: Account Deleted | 10 June 2016 at 04:14 AM
Henrik
What is the basis of your statement: "Model 3 will clearly be more efficient than the Bolt." Do you have any facts for this.
From GM: http://media.chevrolet.com/media/us/en/chevrolet/vehicles/bolt-ev/2017.tab1.html
They have quite a few specs including 60KWH battery energy but not a final mileage other than over 200 miles. The final mileage rating will depend on EPA testing on the production vehicle.
From Tesla: https://www.teslamotors.com/model3
Not many specs other than a 215 mile rang.
I might believe that the Model 3 has a lower Cd based on the fact that it is more of a sedan and the Bolt is more of a small CUV and is taller and maybe shorter.
Posted by: sd | 10 June 2016 at 08:17 AM
I don't know why they would try and diversify their line up now, I'd think the $8,500 would cover the extra 15kwh of battery nicely.
Its not like the market of these cars couldnt afford the higher base price of the 75k+.
Is The 60kwh pack is shared with the S and 3? Is that plausible? They might try and scale up now if so.
I know some reports are saying 44kwh, but 200+EPA range is very high at that point. It is possible that they could build a car with 60kwh for $35k long term. Might lose money on the first year or so, then make it back as things scale up, and service and other options get checked off for the higher end model 3s.
If you figure a gasoline car can cost $14-$20k with a complete ice system, bevs shouldn't be too far behind that. It'll be nice to see EVs go mainstream. I'm waiting for SUVs to get electrified, at least in part.
Posted by: CheeseEater88 | 10 June 2016 at 06:33 PM
The main reason for the 60 again is to get a lower base price and increase sales. They make enough profit where 'loaning' the customer the battery until (if) they pay for it is not a problem. They want to get some model 3 owners to upgrade to the S and both make more profit and take the pressure off them in the future.
Posted by: paul in hampden | 22 June 2016 at 10:41 AM