Tesla Model X

Tesla Model X

Tesla caused a storm in the early days of the battery electric vehicle (BEV) with their radical approach to both the technology and science behind the build. The popular Model X, described as a sport utility vehicle (SUV), is one of a growing range of premium Tesla models that lead the field in the electric car stakes.

The Exterior

The keen-eyed will note the absence of a grille as there is no radiator or engine to cool. This makes for a sleeker front end, the body being designed from the outset as a pure electric vehicle. With the lowest drag coefficient of any SUV, the Model X is all about speed, and lots of it, and distance range on one full charge. Aerodynamic refined, the body design elements work together with purpose-made alloy wheels and tyres for lower rolling resistance, for sharper handling, improved range and better ride comfort.

The Interior

With the most storage space and towing capacity of any electric SUV, and featuring seats for up to seven people (model dependent), the Model X is an ideal utility vehicle as well as a smooth operator. It is certainly technology all the way with Tesla as the front doors open and close automatically and rear ‘Falcon Wing’ doors allow for ease of entry, the rear seats sliding forward electrically to enable access to the third row and easier loading. The drivers seat is very comfortable and adjustable making long journeys a pleasure.

The futuristic and minimalist dashboard is dominated by a striking high-definition 17.0” touchscreen that controls almost every function in the Model X. Climate control, suspension settings, the audio and infotainment and navigation all live there. Obviously the big screen is easy to navigate when stationary but on the go, it takes a little getting use to thanks to a driving lifetime that previously involved buttons and switches. Drivers will just have to get used to the future of automotive technology. There’s another display in front of the steering wheel, replacing the usual analogue dials that is clear and sharp.

Driving The Tesla Model X

There are regular version with 5, 6 or 7 seats and then there’s the ‘Plaid’ version with up to an astonishing 1020bhp on tap meaning 62mph can arrive from rest in as little as 2.6 seconds. Even the standard model X is no slouch with 3.8 seconds for the sprint. There are two electric motors over the axles, delivering all-wheel drive as well. That’s the thing about electric cars; it’s instant: No fumbling with gears or paddles and no turbo-lag, just press the throttle and go.

To get on the move, all that’s needed is to select 'Drive' by flicking the stalk behind the steering wheel and then depress the throttle. There's only one gear, which means acceleration is incredibly smooth with no interruptions or hesitations. Brakes are of course fitted but on the strongest setting the regenerative braking that helps recharge the battery causes the car to decelerate quickly as soon as the foot is off the accelerator. Once used to the idea, a skilled operative might perhaps only use the brakes when coming to a dead stop.

Safety is of course given priority. Model X is built with high-strength architecture and the floor-mounted battery pack makes for a low centre of gravity, aiding handling. All versions have the latest active safety features, such as Automatic Emergency Braking, at no extra cost. No rooting around in the options list necessary.

Should You Buy One?

A careful driver can stretch the range to as much as 348 miles (official figure) but driving behaviour and over-enthusiastic use of the accelerator will naturally affect this. It’s important to be sure that a BEV will fit into an individual’s lifestyle; if it does then there are few finer prestige electric cars around. Customers wishing to import from the UK to Kenya, New Zealand and other global destinations should first enquire about availability with us here at MHH International.