Does the Tesla Model S and X Have More Range Than the EPA Says?

Based on our assessment of recent announcements, certain Tesla Model S and Model X vehicles may indeed have a higher driving range than their official EPA estimates suggest. This revelation came directly from CEO Elon Musk during a recent earnings call, alongside other significant news including new battery suppliers and a forthcoming electric pickup truck from Karma Automotive.

What Did Elon Musk Say About Tesla's EPA Range Ratings? During Tesla's fourth-quarter earnings call, Elon Musk indicated that the company had not yet updated the official EPA-certified range numbers for the Model S and Model X. The EPA currently lists the Model X Long Range at 328 miles and the Model S Long Range at 373 miles. Musk's comments suggest that the actual achievable range for these models could be higher. He also mentioned that a Model S with a range exceeding 400 miles is a likely future development, though no specific timeline was provided. This situation highlights the dynamic nature of electric vehicle (EV) technology, where software improvements can enhance performance after a vehicle's initial certification.

Who Are Tesla's New Battery Suppliers? To support its growing production needs, Tesla has expanded its battery sourcing. While Panasonic remains a key partner, Tesla has now added LG and the Chinese company Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd. (CATL) to its supplier roster. CATL confirmed a two-year agreement in a stock filing, noting that the volume of batteries supplied will be determined by Tesla's demand. This move is widely seen as a strategic effort to localize supply chains for Tesla's Gigafactory in Shanghai, which could lead to more competitive pricing for vehicles built for the Chinese market.

What is Karma's New Electric Pickup Truck? Karma Automotive, known for its Revero luxury electric vehicles, has announced plans to unveil an all-electric pickup truck by the end of 2020. This news, revealed by Karma's COO Kevin Pavlov, signals the brand's intention to compete in high-demand vehicle segments in the United States, following its planned Ocean SUV. However, specific details regarding the truck's driving range, powertrain, or pricing were not disclosed. This move places Karma alongside other automakers racing to introduce electric trucks, though it will be a late entrant to the emerging market.

For prospective EV buyers, these developments underscore the importance of considering both official ratings and real-world performance data. When evaluating a used model like the 2019 Tesla Model 3, which has an EV Battery Rating | Good, it's wise to research owner experiences to understand actual range. Key factors such as battery health, driving habits, and climate have a significant impact on the range you will achieve.