Tesla launch AWD 70 kWh Model S70D

Tesla Motors introduces the All-wheel drive Model S 70D. Uniting exceptional performance and drive experience features, the newest Model S offers great value at a compelling price. Starting at AUD$102,400 RRP plus luxury car tax, on-road costs and stamp duty, Model S 70D includes dual motor all-wheel drive technology, a NEDC-rated 440 km of range, and a 0-100 time of 5.4 seconds.

In addition to dual motor, 70D comes standard with Autopilot Hardware, Navigation, and Supercharging. And, as with every Model S, 70D will run on the new software 6.2 and owners will continue to receive free over-the-air updates that will add additional functionality, enhanced performance, and improved user experience over time.

To make room for the 70D, Tesla is eliminating the 60, which had been its cheapest Model S since the sedan’s 2012 launch. Starting at US$76,170 before any government incentives, the 70D will cost $5,000 more than a basic 60, though it includes use of Tesla's proprietary Superchargers, which was previously a $2,000 option.

Model S70D will be able to travel 440 km (275 miles) between charges and deliver 380 kw (514 hp) to all four wheels from two electric motors -- up from 375 km (233 miles) of range and 280 kw (380 hp) for today’s basic rear-drive Model S, called the 60.

Road & Track are quoting a 0-60 mph time of 5.2 for the 70D but taking into consideration the slightly heavier (15 kWh more batteries on-board) standard 85D with 188 hp motors front and rear (total 376 hp) also records 5.2 sec, I think we can expect significantly-sub-5 sec times from the new 514 hp Model S 70D.

Watch this space once road test data becomes available!

[UPDATED] In something of a PR cock-up, Tesla has now re-stated the peak power output for the Model S 70D @ 328 hp (245 kw)

Model S 70 D standard features include:

• All-wheel drive Dual Motor
• 70 kWh battery with NEDC-rated 440 km range
• 0-100 km/h acceleration in 5.4 seconds
• 225 km/h top speed
• Autopilot Hardware
• Navigation
• Supercharging
• Trip planner and range assurance
• Lane departure warning
• Parking sensors
• Automatic emergency braking
• Automatic Keyless Entry

376hp 85D and 514hp 70D both hit 60mph in 5.2 sec??