Something’s up here.
When we first tested a Tesla Model 3 earlier this year, we were impressed with the speed. Mind you, it was not the Performance model — just the long-range Dual Motor version — but it managed around 4.4 seconds in 0-60 runs. That’s remarkably consistent, and exactly what Tesla says that Model 3 should run. Exciting news, to be sure, since electric cars aren’t hampered by lower air density at a mile above sea level. So what happens when we trade in the Model 3, get a Model X Long Range and run the same 0-60 tests again?
The results weren’t what we were expecting.
Here’s what the Tesla Model X should be able to achieve. With its dual electric motors putting out a combined 518 horsepower, Tesla claims it should be able to hit 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. That’s remarkably fast for such a heavy SUV, and it happens to be the same time the Model 3 managed.
A full second off?
In actual testing at IMI Motorsports Park, however, Roman managed just 5.47 seconds on the 0-60 run in the Model X. That’s a full second slower than Tesla advertises, and we started wondering what might be the culprit for that lack of acceleration. For most cars a second isn’t a noticeable difference. But, when we’re talking about super-quick electric cars like the Tesla, shaving a second off that 0-60 time can mean much more drama behind the wheel. Case in point, Roman’s test of a Tesla Model S with Ludicrous Mode below.
Yeah, that particular Tesla took just 2.7 seconds and 120 feet to hit 60. So why is our Tesla Model X so far off the mark? It could come down to a few different issues, though we did test the car repeatedly on other surfaces with similar results. Is it a serviceable issue, where a software update could make the Model X faster? Is it an issue with the electric motors?
Let us know what you think in the comments below.
