Weekend Herald

Elon, here’s

WE HAVE THE FIRST TEST DRIVE OF THE KIWI- NEW MODEL S P100D ATTENTION GRABBER

- LIZ DOBSON

Dear Elon, I know I should probably call you Mr Musk, or the Tesla boss, but as I’ve watched enough documentar­ies, read your book plus numerous articles, I think you’ll be fine with familiarit­ies.

As you know, you’ve just launched Tesla into New Zealand — although Kiwi fans of your brand had, for the past few years, imported the Model S from the UK or Australia.

As you’re such a social media fan, you probably also know that Kiwis were so desperate for Tesla to launch here that some started a Facebook page to encourage a store or two in New Zealand. You probably brought it on yourself, though, Elon when you allowed Kiwis a chance last year to order the Model 3.

So imagine their delight when your company was officially launched here a few weeks ago with the first New Zealand- new Tesla Model S and Model X.

I was lucky enough to snaffle the first motoring media test drive of a Model S and, of course, if you’re going for a Model S it has to be the top of the range P100D.

Now on that name, I know that it gets that moniker due to the addition of a 100kWh battery and the D stands for dual batteries, but maybe your marketing team can work on something a bit more snazzy — just a thought, Elon.

The all- electric powertrain means it hits 0- 100kmh in just 2.7 seconds plus the dual motors front and back mean the Model S controls torque to all the wheels, so it’s an all- wheel- drive. Nice work.

I loved the instant delivery of torque once I pressed my foot down ( meaning I was first away at the traffic lights every time – and I bet you do that on your LA commute every day too).

The P100D starts at $ 227,000 with my model specced up to $ 261,200 due to the red multi- coat paint, tinted glass roof, 21in alloys and the premium upgrades package.

I’m sure you’ve had this feedback before Elon, but that hefty price tag surprised the many

 ??  ??
 ??  ??

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from New Zealand