Skip to main content

The Tesla P85D shows just how Dyno-mighty it is

Tesla’s all electric sedan, the Model S has already made a name for itself, recieving impressive accolades like Consumer Reports’ highest score of 99 out of its 100-point scale. It’s newest iteration, the all-wheel-drive P85D is furthering the legend, dominating the internet with demonstrations of its immense torque output.

In the video by Drag Times, the Tesla is put to a scrutinizing test on a dynamometer to measure it more accurately than just pitting it against exotic sports cars.

Screen Shot 2014-12-31 at 6.26.00 PM
Image used with permission by copyright holder

The test takes a couple tries as the torque output it so immediate, the Model S spins its wheels a couple times, ruining the first test runs. The dual electric motors of the sedan put out the combined equivalent of 691-horsepower, and the acceleration stats say the car can do 0 to 60 in 3.2 seconds, but there’s no real mention of official torque numbers.

When the Drag Times crew finally get the P85D to behave itself, the result is a staggering peak output of 864 foot-pounds of torque. To put that into perspective, the Pagani Huayra supercar’s 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12 can only muster 740 foot-pounds. The Tesla also holds way more people – seven total if you pop two kids in the optional rear-facing jump seats.

Given that electric motors tend to generate plenty of torque in a hurry, it’s not surprising that the number is high on the Model S, we just weren’t expecting such a substantial figure. It should make for some interesting red light encounters for any would-be challengers thinking that they could best a simple electric sedan. They’ll be in for a shock.

Topics
Alexander Kalogianni
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Alex K is an automotive writer based in New York. When not at his keyboard or behind the wheel of a car, Alex spends a lot of…
Rivian R2 vs. Kia EV9: battle of affordable electric SUVs
Kia EV9 GT-Line Three Quarters

The long-awaited Rivian R2 has finally been announced, and it's an excellent option for those who want an electric SUV that doesn't completely break the bank. Sure, the R2 isn't cheap -- but it's a whole lot cheaper than most other EVs out there, especially when it comes to SUVs. But Rivian isn't the only company trying to tackle the problem of the budget electric SUV. The Kia EV9 is finally available, and it too offers a modern design and a range of helpful features.

Given the fact that the Rivian R2 and Kia EV9 are two electric SUVs in a similar price range, you might be wondering which is better for your needs. That's why we put the Rivian R2 and the Kia EV9 head-to-head.
Design
Both the Rivian R2 and the Kia EV9 are actual SUVs -- not crossovers pretending to be SUVs, like plenty of other EVs out there. The two vehicles offer big, boxy designs and plenty of interior space, making them excellent options for families or those who need that extra storage.

Read more
Rivian R2 vs R1S: How will Rivian’s cheaper SUV compare?
The front three-quarter view of a 2022 Rivian against a rocky backdrop.

Rivian has finally unveiled the R2, its long-awaited attempt at a more affordable electric SUV. The new vehicle may not be available just yet, but fans of Rivian's design aesthetics and feature set are already looking forward to being able to order the new car. The R2 is targeted at being a more affordable take on the electric SUV and will sit alongside the flagship-tier R1S.

Let's get this out of the way right now: The R1S is most likely going to be a better vehicle than the R2. Rivian isn't replacing the R1S with the R2 — it's releasing the R2 as a more affordable alternative, and there will be some compromises when buying the R2 over the R1S.

Read more
Cybertruck production reportedly halted over pedal issue
Tesla CEO Elon Musk behind the wheel of a Cybertruck.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk behind the wheel of a Cybertruck. Tesla

Tesla’s Cybertruck has been hit by a production delay caused by an issue with a part of the vehicle, a number of media reports have claimed.

Read more