There’s A New Tesla Model S, The Dual-Motor 70D

There’s a new Tesla Motors Model S all-electric sedan. It’s the Model S 70D, and it’s a slightly less bonkers version of the all-wheel-drive, super-fast Model S P85D. And we’re getting it in Australia.

The Model S 70D follows the same dual-electric-motor, all-wheel-drive design as the P85D — that’s what the D in the name stands for. It’s quick off the mark like any Model S, but it’s decidedly less hyperpowered than its supercar big brother.

The 70D can dispatch 0-100km/h in 5.4 seconds, and it’ll do so while running for an approximately 440km maximum range from its 70kWh battery pack. A top speed of 225km/h seems like more than enough to us. Interestingly enough, Tesla is killing off the base-model 60kWh Model S, which started at around a $98,000 RRP in Australia, and introducing the 70D as the new entry level.

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Every new Model S 70D will come standard with the dual-motor option, obviously, but will also include access to Tesla’s expanding Australian Supercharger network, in-car navigation via Google Maps, and autopilot — a web of sensors around the car that monitor traffic, driving conditions and the road itself to take most of the burden of driving out of your hands (should you want it to do so).

You’ll also be able to buy the 70D in any of the three new colours that Tesla is introducing to its entire line-up: Ocean Blue, Obsidian Black and Warm Silver; you’ll see the blue finish debuted on the Tesla in the big picture up top.

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That 70kWh battery pack is almost certainly the same one as the one used in the almost-as-new Tesla Motors Roadster 3.0 — it’s not as energy-dense as the top-spec 85kWh of the most expensive Model S, but may well be the same cell limited by software.

The 70D will start from a $102,400 RRP in Australia. Tesla’s local team tells us that we can expect the 70D to hit Aussie shores “later this year”, but a more concrete time-frame will become clear as we get closer to the actual release.

Here’s Tesla Motors’ official release on the new Model S P70D:

PALO ALTO, Calif., April 8, 2015 – Tesla Motors introduces the All-wheel drive Model S 70D. Uniting exceptional performance and drive experience features, the newest Model S offers great value at a compelling price. Starting at $102,400 RRP plus luxury car tax, on-road costs and stamp duty, Model S 70D includes dual motor all-wheel drive technology, a NEDC-rated 440 km of range, and a 0-100 time of 5.4 seconds.
 
In addition to dual motor, 70D comes standard with Autopilot Hardware, Navigation, and Supercharging. And, as with every Model S, 70D will run on the new software 6.2 and owners will continue to receive free over-the-air updates that will add additional functionality, enhanced performance, and improved user experience over time.
 
When compared to other entry-level premium all-wheel drive vehicles, the total cost of owning a Model S over five years time is far more compelling.
 
Tesla also unveiled three new colors today; Ocean Blue, Obsidian Black, and Warm Silver, now available on any variant of Model S.
 
Model S 70 D standard features include:
 

  • All-wheel drive Dual Motor
  • 70 kWh battery with NEDC-rated 440 km range
  • 0-100 km/h acceleration in 5.4 seconds
  • 225 km/h top speed
  • Autopilot Hardware
  • Navigation
  • Supercharging
  • Trip planner and range assurance
  • Lane departure warning
  • Parking sensors
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Automatic Keyless Entry

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