Tesla Model Y: 6 travel-proof technologies from the new Suv crossover
Elon Musk's new sport-utility blends automotive and big-tech with self-irony and strong performances. We took if for a one thousand kilometers drive in Italy. Here's what we discovered and what we think are the 6 main qualities of the Model Y when it comes to long distance traveling.
Travel is the toughest proving ground for electric vehicles and when approaching a battery-powered Grand Tour, Tesla can count numerous dedicated amenities ranging from powerful charging infrastructure to a fun and friendly user-experience amidst a minimal-chic cabin. At motorway speeds (130/140km/h in Italy) one can cover between 400-450km that rise up to 535km on slower routes. Efficiency of the 95kWh battery and more than a decade of fine tuning on zero-emission mobility are both key factors. Given range, architecture (crossover SUV segment is a public's favorite), acceleration and entertainment, it seems very likely that the California’s car company fourth model, will become a best-seller in the coming year. For the moment though, let's find out what six qualities make the Model Y suitable for electric travelling.
A sinfony of Superchargers
With 60 Superchargers stations on Italian soil to supply up to 250kWh of electricity, the Bel Paese can easily be discovered aboard a Tesla. The charging operation is simple; No need for cards, validations, codes. Just press the button on the regulator that opens the door with the socket, and in ten minutes you can gain 200km of autonomy.
A magnificent silence
For over a century, luxury manufacturers have been working on making their cars as quiet as possible. Tesla has exploited the advantages (absence of rustles and mechanical clutches) of the native electric propulsion, to deliver to its customers a quiet on board comparable to that of the engine aristocracy.
Stress-free tech
Immediate and cinematic, the user experience of the Tesla multimedia system is positively affected by the digital avant-garde made in Palo Alto. All connections (phone, App) take place in moments; Voice commands are always perfectly understood by electronic intelligence and even when driving in remote areas and there is no signal or coverage, the car remains connected to the Internet via satellite with all the benefits of the case. At least in our text with dozens of destinations entered, the maps have never missed a beat. Not even in the infamous historic center of Florence.
Funny gimmicks
On the Model Y, waiting moments are filled with divertissement. The suggested interactions range from streaming Netflix, Youtube etc to video games such as Sonic, puzzles, backgammon matches. You can compose music or draw. The sense of humor is not lacking; It is possible to combine the passenger's seating with different types of flutes or transform the screen into a romantic fireplace. Then there's the light show and festive mode that turns Model Y into Santa's sleigh, pedestrians into elves, and other cars into reindeer.
A bolt from the blue
The Model Y LR TD dual motor used in our trip, liquidates the practice 0-100 hours in 5 seconds and little more. The value drops to 3.5 seconds on the Performance but regardless of the version, there is no moment in which it feels short of thrust. Just press the left pedal with a minimum of determination, and the trip into hyper-space is served; a very useful quality in overtaking and in some ways a distinctive feature of the Tesla identity.
The sense of space
The void increases the perception of volumes and the Model Y uses the electric platform to create interiors full of empty spaces that seem to be inspired by Scandinavian living. The sense of breadth is perceived and real; The large transparent and opaque windows radiate light on the passenger compartment and the rear seats can accommodate three adults, with good freedom of movement for shoulders and legs. There are two luggage racks and the rear one has a double compartment. The load volumes therefore range from 971 to 2,158 liters by reclining the seats.
To follow the footsteps of our writers and request a tailor made travel experience in Emilia Romagna with the Bentley Flying Spur or with other classic&contemporary cars from our Portfolio, please write an email to info@thedriversclub.it
Matteo Morichini
My childhood memories are of arts, literature and visits of far away lands and now, I love writing about tourism, travel&motoring experiences as well as gastronomic cultures. Following the Degree in History & Politics and the Masters in International Relations at London School of Economics, I start my journalist career in 2004. Since then, I made it a point to visit all of the seven continents, while daily enhancing my passion and curiosity towards cuisine, charming hospitality and millenial traditions from the beautiful Italian territory
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