Tesla Model S P85D Gets AWD; 0-60 MPH in 3.2 Seconds

Tesla has confirmed that an all-wheel drive Model S is on the way.

As a previous leaked photo revealed, the AWD Model S will sport the “D” designation and will have about 10 extra miles of all-electric range compared to the standard Model S thanks to more efficiency built into the new system. That means the AWD Model S will have a maximum range of about 275 miles and even more impressive, the AWD Model S will go 0-60 in 3.2 seconds, a whole one second faster than the rear-wheel drive variant.

Using a second electric motor to drive the front wheels, Tesla CEO Elon Musk called the system “a huge improvement” and believes that it is “taking the technology to the next level.” Other automakers have employed a similar AWD system, such as the Lexus RX. The Model S P85D will begin delivery this December while the other models will commence next year in February.

Tesla also revealed a couple of new advanced safety technologies, as was previously reported, including lane-departure warning. In addition, the new Model S sedans that are being built will have 12 sensors that are able to see 16 feet that will also help the new system move the car over a lane when the driver uses the turn signal as well as read speed-limit signs and adjusts the vehicle to the speed seen. Unfortunately, those sensors can’t be retrofitted to older Model S vehicles, so current owners are out of luck.