By Allyson 
Introduction
Welcome to an exciting journey as we take the ultra high mileage Tesla Model S for a test drive, pushing the limits of its range and performance. This electric vehicle (EV) has impressively covered 430,000 miles, equating to climbing Mount Everest 40,000 times or traveling from London to Australia and back 22 times. Our mission is to determine just how far it can travel on a single charge while assessing how well this ancient EV has aged.
In this article, we’ll delve into the testing process, share our driving experiences, and highlight the vehicle’s performance in different conditions. Let’s buckle up and get started!
The Journey Begins: Richmond to Bedfordshire
Our starting point is Richmond in North Yorkshire, with a destination of exactly 200 miles to our test center in Central Bedfordshire. The plan is straightforward: most of our journey will take place on the motorway, a crucial factor when evaluating EV range. While highway driving is often considered less favorable for electric vehicles, it’s a necessary test to understand real-world usage for long distances.
Initial Setup
Before hitting the road, I reset the trip computer and programmed the satnav for our secret testing facility. The anticipation builds as we prepare to drive the Tesla, aiming to explore its capabilities after years of use.
First Impressions: Driving a High Mileage EV
Comfort and Handling
As I settle into the driver’s seat, the first thing I notice is the steering—there’s quite a bit of play around the center, making it feel a bit loose. This could be attributed to the vehicle’s age, as it’s a 2016 model. Additionally, the seats show signs of wear, with my body contorted slightly due to the lack of ergonomic support.
Despite these minor discomforts, I have a feeling of confidence driving this EV. Unlike internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, where engine troubles lurk at the back of your mind, the Tesla hums quietly, allowing for a more relaxed driving experience.
Range and Efficiency
As we cruise along the motorway, the dashboard reads 285 Wh/mile (or about 3.5 miles per kWh), indicating a surprisingly efficient drive. The vehicle’s energy consumption metrics show that the Tesla is holding up well despite its mileage.
However, the journey has just begun, and as the temperature drops and rain begins to fall, I anticipate how these factors might impact our range.
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Charging Costs and Taxi Benefits
Interestingly, the owner of this high-mileage Tesla, Paul, uses it as a taxi. He charges his passengers $240 for a trip from Chesterfield to London Heathrow, a price significantly lower than his competitors who operate ICE vehicles. Thanks to Tesla’s free supercharging for life policy, Paul can pass on these savings to his customers while contributing to a more sustainable environment.
This advantage illustrates how an electric Tesla, often perceived as an unsuitable choice for taxi services, actually offers a competitive edge in terms of operational costs.
The Changing Weather and Its Impact on Range
As we continue our journey, the weather takes a turn for the worse. The air conditioning is necessary to prevent the windows from fogging up, which leads to increased energy consumption.
The Challenge of Motorway Driving
Despite the optimal conditions earlier in the drive, I can feel the range estimator growing more conservative. It seems to adjust based on the driving habits from previous trips, which adds a layer of complexity to the journey.
The Need for a Recharge
With the weather worsening and the range dwindling, I decide to divert to a supercharger. Our planned stop is not solely for charging; I want to gauge how busy the supercharger stations are—a common concern for EV drivers.
The Final Stretch: Running Out of Range
As we approach the supercharger, the dashboard indicates 1 mile left. The urgency heightens as I attempt to reach the charging station. Just as we near our destination, disaster strikes—the car suddenly powers down. Despite showing 1 mile of range remaining, it refuses to move.
The Community Steps In
In a moment of frustration, I realize I need help. Luckily, a fellow Tesla driver comes to my rescue, guiding me through the process of getting the car into tow mode. Together, we manage to push the vehicle into an empty space.
Troubleshooting the Charge
Once parked, the next hurdle arises—my charging adapter won’t connect. After some investigation, I discover a foreign object trapped inside the adapter. After a bit of fiddling, I finally manage to connect it to the charging station, eliciting a sigh of relief as the vehicle begins to charge.
Conclusion: The Final Range Results
After an eventful journey filled with ups and downs, we end up achieving a total of 186 miles on a single charge. This outcome is slightly less than expected, likely impacted by the changing weather and increased reliance on air conditioning.
Despite the challenges faced, this journey highlights the durability of electric vehicles, particularly high mileage models like this Tesla. They are not disposable; rather, they can continue to serve their purpose for many years, even under demanding conditions.
Key Takeaways
- The Tesla Model S, despite its high mileage, remains a reliable and efficient vehicle.
- Electric taxis, like this one, can offer significant savings over traditional ICE vehicles.
- The influence of weather and driving conditions on range is a crucial consideration for EV owners.
FAQs
1. How far can the Tesla Model S travel on a single charge?
The tested Tesla Model S achieved approximately 186 miles on a single charge under varying conditions.
2. Is the Tesla Model S suitable for taxi services?
Yes, Tesla Model S offers operational cost savings, making it a suitable choice for taxi services, especially with free supercharging.
3. How does weather affect the range of electric vehicles?
Adverse weather conditions, such as rain and cold temperatures, can lead to increased energy consumption, reducing overall range.
4. What is the significance of regenerative braking in electric vehicles?
Regenerative braking helps recover energy during deceleration, enhancing overall efficiency and range, particularly on A and B roads.
5. Can high-mileage electric vehicles be reliable?
Yes, high-mileage electric vehicles can be reliable and efficient, debunking the myth that they are disposable after a certain mileage.
6. What are the charging options for Tesla owners?
Tesla owners have access to free supercharging stations and can also charge at home or at other charging stations, depending on their needs.
7. What should I consider when buying a high-mileage electric vehicle?
Consider battery health, overall condition, and whether the vehicle has features like free supercharging to maximize value and efficiency.