Does the 2020 Tesla Model S Long Range Plus Really Achieve a 400-Mile EPA Range?

The 2020 Tesla Model S Long Range Plus has officially achieved an EPA-estimated range of 402 miles, making it the first production electric vehicle to break the symbolic 400-mile barrier. This announcement, confirmed by CEO Elon Musk, updates the sedan's previous rating and solidifies its position as the long-range champion in the EV market, though the official EPA website may take time to reflect the new figure.

How Did Tesla Increase the Model S Range to 402 Miles?

The increased range isn't due to a single breakthrough but a series of cumulative engineering refinements applied to vehicles built since earlier this year. These updates focus on maximizing efficiency across several systems:

• Aerodynamic Wheels and Low-Rolling Resistance Tires: The new wheels are designed to reduce air turbulence, while the specialized tires minimize the energy lost as heat when the tire flexes against the road, a factor known as rolling resistance.
• More Efficient Regenerative Braking: Tesla has optimized the regenerative braking system, which captures kinetic energy during deceleration and sends it back to the battery. The revised system can recapture more energy than before, effectively extending range with each stop.
• Weight Reductions: Lighter materials were incorporated into the seats, battery pack, and drive units. Reducing overall vehicle weight directly decreases the energy required for acceleration.
• Electric Oil Pump: Replacing a mechanical oil pump with an electric one in the rear drive unit reduces parasitic drain on the powertrain, freeing up more energy for driving.

These incremental changes, while seemingly small, combine to deliver a significant 11-mile increase over the previous 391-mile estimate.

Is a 400-Mile Range Actually Important for Daily Driving?

For most daily commutes and local driving, a 400-mile range is more about eliminating "range anxiety" than practical necessity. Based on our assessment experience, the average driver covers well under 100 miles per day. For an owner with access to at-home charging, plugging in overnight means starting each day with a "full tank," making the extreme range figure less critical for routine errands.

However, the 402-mile rating is a game-changer for long-distance road trips. It significantly reduces the number of necessary charging stops and increases flexibility when traveling between cities, especially in areas where Supercharger stations are less dense. It provides a substantial buffer, reducing stress about reaching the next charger.

What is the Price of the Model S Long Range Plus and How Does it Compare?

Following a price reduction in May, the Model S Long Range Plus now starts at $76,190, which includes a $1,200 destination fee. It serves as the new base trim for the Model S lineup.

For comparison, here is a breakdown of the current Model S offerings:

The choice ultimately depends on priority. The Long Range Plus is for drivers seeking maximum distance between charges, while the Performance model caters to those desiring blistering acceleration, albeit with a shorter range and a higher price tag of $96,190.

Which Electric Cars Have the Longest Range in 2020?

The Tesla Model S Long Range Plus now leads the pack by a considerable margin. Other top contenders for longest EV range include:

1. Tesla Model S Long Range Plus: 402 miles
2. Tesla Model 3 Long Range: 322 miles
3. Tesla Model X Long Range: 351 miles
4. Chevrolet Bolt EV: 259 miles
5. Ford Mustang Mach-E (California Route 1 Edition): 300 miles (estimated)

The 400-mile benchmark is a significant psychological and technical milestone for electric vehicles, demonstrating that EVs can match or exceed the driving range of many gasoline-powered cars. For the Tesla Model S Long Range Plus, this achievement cements its status as the go-to option for buyers for whom maximum range is the top priority, particularly for frequent long-distance travel. While the daily utility of such a large battery may be limited for some, the freedom and flexibility it offers on the open road are undeniable.