DRIVEN + VIDEO: How One Nail Can Derail A Tesla Model S' Roadtrip

I would say that the past two weeks have been really interesting for Tesla. Between the questionable review, curious data lifted from the car to navel-gazing blog posts straight from the company itself, it's been an interesting ride.

But as more folks are getting their hands on the Tesla Model S, it's becoming clear that this vehicle — even when equipped with the larger power capability — is still giving drivers some serious range anxiety.

For a recent Kelley Blue Book review this was experienced first hand when the gang got a flat tire. This caused them to take a detour to get the tire properly fixed. From there things seem to go downhill as topography, non-Tesla/standard electric chargers and cold temperatures add some flavor to the mix.

While we won't spoil the end result of this review, it's definitely another interesting look into the Model S.

ToddRLockwood - 2/27/2013 9:44:08 AM

+3 Boost

A nail can derail a road trip in ANY car. There are plenty of performance vehicles that do not carry a spare tire on board. A seasoned Model S owner would carry a tire repair kit and electric air pump, available from Tesla and elsewhere. Until Tesla's supercharger network is fully built out, trips like this one will require some forethought, but let's not forget that long distance trips represent less than 5 percent of the driving most of us do.

Terry989 - 2/27/2013 12:19:49 PM

+2 Boost

First off, I can't believe a car in this price range does not already come standard with a tire repair kit and electric air pump. I understand the economics and practicality of eliminating the spare, but at least provide a solution to in case of an emergency.

vdiv - 2/27/2013 9:10:27 PM

0 Boost

The solution is a phone call away. Noone in their right mind is going to mess with a flat tire on the side of a highway in the middle of the rain with some dinky compressor and the awful slime.

Terry989 - 2/28/2013 10:44:22 AM

+2 Boost

You have a point when it comes to plug-ins since they are always on a tether and not made to venture out of the city. When you drive across sparsely populated areas or mountain roads - - - you may well be more than a phone call away.

I95SPEEDINGTICKETS - 2/27/2013 10:49:37 AM

+3 Boost

"A Seasoned Model S owner" ??

WTF ??

ToddRLockwood - 2/28/2013 11:24:57 AM

+2 Boost

A seasoned Model S owner would be someone who's driven the car for a few months, as opposed to a journalist who might have spent 24-hours with it.

vdiv - 2/28/2013 1:34:28 PM

+3 Boost

Let's see...

One part olive oil, two parts Balsamic vinegar, a pinch of salt...

Oh, not that kind of seasoned? ;)