The innovative electric vehicles of Tesla Motors are winning top awards and exceptional ratings.
Tesla Motors’ Model S has won yet another major industry award. This time the innovative electric car has managed to earn a spot on Car and Driver’s coveted “10 Best Cars of 2016” list.
The Model S was first announced back in 2008 and began rolling off the assembly line for retail deliveries in America in 2012. Since its introduction, the vehicle has raised the bar for electric car quality, setting records in performance, luxury and driving range, among others honors. The Model S earned 103 out of a possible 100 in a Consumer Reports evaluation, prompting a recalibration of Consumer Reports’ rating methods.
Tesla Motors was founded in 2003 by Marc Tarpenning and Martin Eberhard with the idea honoring the cutting-edge innovations of renowned physicist and electrical engineer Nikola Tesla. Elon Musk took the helm as CEO in 2004, powering the company forward while making sure it earned the spotlight. The company launched with its Roadster model, which used an AC motor that was directly inspired by one of Tesla’s original 1882 designs. When the Roaster was phased out in 2012, the Model S stepped up to take its place.
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The Model S stands apart from its competition because of the way it interacts with its driver, Car and Driver noted. From its door handles that “stow flush with the sheet metal until they glide out to meet your hand as you approach” to the automatic engagement of the climate system and stereo, the vehicle anticipates its driver’s needs. With a simple but elegant cabin design, the Model S also boasts 17-inch touch screens with large buttons for easy use while driving. The buying experience, Car and Driver adds, is streamlined for ease.
The Car and Driver honor is not the first major victory for the Model S. It has also won car-of-the-year awards from AutoGuide.com, Automobile magazine, Motor Trend and Yahoo! Autos.
As motorists seek to ease dependence on fossil fuels for transportation, green car makers like Tesla are gaining in importance and prominence. Tesla’s continued commitment to raising the bar seems to signal good news ahead for those who prefer plugging in to filling up at the pump.
A number of other well-known automakers also saw their designs honored by Car and Driver on its 2016 best list. Some of the other Top 10 models include the Ford Mustang Shelby GT350/GT350R, Cadillac CTS Vsport, the Chevrolet Camaro and the BMW M235i.
