Tesla starts shipping the Model S Long Range

The updated version of Tesla’s most basic Model S liftback – the Long Range – is already shipping with the same improvements as the range-topping Plaid spec (see video).

Contrasted against the Plaid, which the company claims can sprint 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 1.99 seconds, the Long Range is not quite as exciting at 3.1 seconds. With a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph), it is also not as fast as the Plaid with its 322 km/h (200 mph).

On the upside, the newcomer covers 652 kilometers (405 miles) on a charge, whereas the Plaid maxes out at 628 km (390 miles). Even more importantly, it starts at U.S. $79,999 – a whole fifty grand below the Plaid’s $129,999.

Tesla continuously improves its software to ensure maximum dynamics and range across its entire EV lineup. The Model S had been envisioned with a Plaid+ spec at first, but Elon Musk later scrapped that idea, arguing that few drivers need more range than that, and once you stop for a bit of rest, you can always top up the batteries.