Exploring Tesla Model S 90 D 2017 Performance Design And Tech

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tesla model s 90d 2017
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The Tesla Model S 90D 2017 represents a pinnacle of electric vehicle engineering, blending cutting-edge performance with refined luxury. Its dual-motor all-wheel-drive system redefined acceleration metrics, delivering 0-60 mph in under 3.1 seconds while maintaining an EPA-estimated range of up to 335 miles. Beyond raw power, the 90D’s aerodynamic optimizations and advanced battery chemistry set new benchmarks for efficiency, challenging traditional luxury sedans in both dynamic capability and sustainability. This analysis dissects its technical specifications, aerodynamic innovations, and software-driven features, offering a comprehensive examination of why the 2017 Model S 90D remains a benchmark in automotive innovation.

The vehicle’s powertrain configuration, featuring a dual-motor AWD system with 762 horsepower and 775 lb-ft of torque, exemplifies Tesla’s commitment to torque density—a critical factor in achieving superior acceleration and real-world performance. Coupled with a 90 kWh battery pack, the 90D balances energy consumption with regenerative braking efficiency, recovering up to 30% of kinetic energy during deceleration. Comparative analyses against contemporaries like the BMW M5 and Audi S8 underscore its advantages in torque delivery and energy efficiency, while its aerodynamic design—including an ultra-low drag coefficient of 0.209—further enhances range and top-speed stability. The interior, characterized by minimalist elegance and customizable controls, reflects Tesla’s philosophy of merging technology with driver-centric ergonomics.

tesla model s 90d 2017

Technical Specifications & Performance Breakdown of the Tesla Model S 90D (2017)

The Tesla Model S 90D (2017) represents a pinnacle of electric performance engineering, combining dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) with a high-energy-density battery pack to deliver unparalleled acceleration, efficiency, and real-world capability. Its powertrain configuration—featuring a dual-motor setup with independent torque vectoring—distinguishes it from conventional internal combustion engine (ICE) luxury sedans, offering superior torque density and regenerative energy recovery. Below is a structured breakdown of its technical specifications, performance metrics, and comparative analysis against other Model S variants and contemporary competitors.

Powertrain Configuration and Performance Metrics

The Model S 90D (2017) employs a dual-motor AWD system, where each motor drives a separate axle (front and rear) with the following specifications:

- Front Motor:

  • Type: Permanent-magnet synchronous motor (AC induction backup)
  • Power Output: 283 hp (211 kW)
  • Torque: 317 lb-ft (430 Nm)
  • Peak Efficiency Range: 0–5,000 RPM

    • - Rear Motor:

  • Type: Permanent-magnet synchronous motor (AC induction backup)
  • Power Output: 477 hp (356 kW)
  • Torque: 443 lb-ft (601 Nm)
  • Peak Efficiency Range: 0–10,000 RPM

    • - Combined System Output:

  • Total Power: 670 hp (500 kW)
  • Total Torque: 760 lb-ft (1,030 Nm)
  • 0–60 mph Acceleration: 3.1 seconds (EPA-certified)
  • 0–100 mph Acceleration: 10.0 seconds
  • Top Speed: 155 mph (electronically limited)

    • The dual-motor system achieves instant torque delivery (0–60% in <1 second) and torque vectoring via independent motor control, optimizing traction and handling. Regenerative braking recovers up to 75% of kinetic energy under moderate deceleration, with energy recovery efficiency peaking at ~90% in low-speed scenarios.

    Energy Consumption and Efficiency Metrics

    The Model S 90D (2017) utilizes a 90 kWh battery pack (usable capacity: 85 kWh), with the following energy consumption and range figures:
    MetricEPA EstimateWLTP EstimateReal-World Variability
    City MPGe106~9590–100 (urban stop-and-go, moderate speeds)
    Highway MPGe98~8885–95 (steady cruising, highway speeds)
    Combined MPGe101~9088–98 (mixed driving, climate control)
    EPA Range (City)289 miles~260250–280 (aggressive regenerative braking)
    EPA Range (Highway)335 miles~300290–320 (minimal braking, optimal speed)
    Combined Range315 miles~280270–300 (typical daily driving)
    Key Efficiency Factors:
  • Regenerative Braking: Energy recovery efficiency drops to ~60% at high speeds (>60 mph) due to aerodynamic drag and motor thermal limits.
  • Climate Control: HVAC consumption reduces range by 10–20% in cold weather (below 40°F/4°C).
  • Tire and Aerodynamics: Low-rolling-resistance tires and active grille shutters improve efficiency by ~5% compared to standard configurations.
  • Software Optimization: Tesla’s Autopilot and Eco Mode adjust motor efficiency dynamically, reducing energy use by ~15% in highway driving.

    • Comparative Analysis: Model S 90D vs. P90D vs. 75D (2017)

    The following table contrasts the Model S 90D (2017) with its siblings, highlighting differences in performance, range, and charging efficiency:
    Specification Model S 75D (2017) Model S 90D (2017) Model S P90D (2017)
    Battery Pack (kWh) 75 (usable: 70) 90 (usable: 85) 90 (usable: 85)
    Motor Configuration Single rear motor Dual-motor AWD Dual-motor AWD (enhanced cooling)
    Power Output (hp/kW) 317/237 (rear) 670/500 (dual) 670/500 (dual, liquid-cooled)
    0–60 mph (sec) 5.6 3.1 2.5
    0–100 mph (sec) 13.4 10.0 9.0
    Top Speed (mph) 130 (electronically limited) 155 155
    EPA Range (miles) 265 (combined) 315 (combined) 315 (combined)
    WLTP Range (miles) ~240 ~280 ~280
    Charging (0–10%) ~30 min (Supercharger V2) ~30 min (Supercharger V2) ~25 min (Supercharger V2, optimized thermal management)
    Charging (10–80%) ~45 min ~45 min ~40 min (liquid-cooled battery)
    Key Observations:
  • The P90D shares the same battery and motor configuration as the 90D but includes liquid-cooled motors and battery, enabling faster acceleration (2.5s 0–60 mph) and reduced thermal losses during sustained high-performance driving.
  • The 75D sacrifices torque density and AWD capability for a smaller battery, resulting in lower range and slower acceleration despite similar single-motor efficiency.
  • Charging times are nearly identical between the 90D and P90D at lower states of charge (SoC), but the P90D’s liquid cooling improves high-SoC charging rates by ~12%.

    • Design & Aesthetic Features of the 2017 Tesla Model S 90D

    The 2017 Tesla Model S 90D exemplifies a fusion of futuristic engineering and minimalist luxury, where every design element serves both aesthetic refinement and functional efficiency. Its exterior embodies Tesla’s signature aerodynamic philosophy, reducing drag while enhancing performance, while the interior prioritizes ergonomic innovation and premium materials. The 90D’s design language distinguishes it from conventional luxury sedans through its sculpted contours, adaptive lighting, and driver-centric controls, setting a benchmark for automotive elegance and technological integration.

    Exterior Design Language and Aerodynamic Enhancements

    The 2017 Model S 90D’s exterior design prioritizes aerodynamic efficiency, a critical factor in achieving its 0.205 Cd (drag coefficient)—one of the lowest in the automotive industry. This level of refinement is achieved through a combination of structural and active aerodynamic features:

    - Active Grille Shutters: Located behind the front bumper, these shutters adjust dynamically to optimize airflow. When closed, they reduce drag by up to 40% at highway speeds, improving efficiency without compromising cooling.

  • Underbody Shielding: A titanium-coated underbody shield minimizes turbulence from the road surface, further reducing drag. The shield’s design integrates seamlessly with the vehicle’s contours, avoiding the "parasitic drag" common in conventional underbody panels.
  • Sculpted Wheel Arches and Mirrors: The 21-inch "Gigacast" aluminum wheels (standard) feature a honeycomb-like structure that reduces air resistance, while the panoramic camera-equipped side mirrors eliminate traditional mirror drag, contributing 0.0025 Cd savings.
  • Rear Spoiler and Diffuser: The active rear spoiler adjusts angle based on speed, generating downforce at higher velocities while maintaining a streamlined profile at lower speeds. The diffuser at the rear enhances airflow separation, reducing wake turbulence.
    • Drag Coefficient Impact on Efficiency:
    The Model S 90D’s 0.205 Cd translates to ~20% less aerodynamic drag compared to a conventional luxury sedan (e.g., Mercedes S-Class at ~0.22 Cd). This reduction directly improves range and efficiency, particularly at highway speeds where aerodynamic forces dominate.

    Interior Materials and Trim Options: Standard vs. Premium Finishes

    The 2017 Model S 90D’s interior balances minimalist sophistication with customizable luxury, offering tiered material options that cater to different preferences. Below is a comparative table of standard and premium finishes, highlighting key differentiators in trim, stitching, and inlays.
    Material/Feature Standard Finish (Base Trim) Premium Finish (Upgraded) Notes
    Seat Upholstery Synthetic leather (vegan-friendly, 100% polyester) Full-grain or premium synthetic leather (e.g., "Black Diamond" or "Cream" finishes) Premium leather features hand-stitched patterns and UV-resistant dyeing for longevity.
    Dashboard Trim Alcantara® (microfiber) with black stitching Aluminum or real wood inlays (e.g., walnut, ash, or carbon fiber) Wood inlays are sourced from FSC-certified forests; aluminum options include brushed or anodized finishes.
    Steering Wheel Black Alcantara® with flat stitching Leather-wrapped with contrasting stitching (e.g., red, gray, or tan) Premium wheels include heated and ventilated options.
    Door Panels Alcantara® with black accents Leather or Alcantara® with metallic or wood trim inserts Premium doors feature hidden storage compartments with magnetic closures.
    Floor Mats Black rubber with basic stitching Custom-stitched leather or Alcantara® with embossed Tesla logos Premium mats are waterproof and include heated pads for cold climates.
    The premium finishes emphasize tactile refinement, with materials like walnut wood (from sustainable forests) and anodized aluminum adding a high-tech yet organic aesthetic. Stitching patterns vary by trim level, with premium options featuring laser-precision techniques for consistency.

    Yoke Steering Wheel: Ergonomics and Customization

    The Model S 90D’s Yoke steering wheel represents a departure from traditional circular designs, offering superior ergonomics for both driving dynamics and customization. Unlike conventional wheels, the Yoke eliminates the dead space between the driver’s hands and the wheel, reducing fatigue during long drives.

    Key features and customization options include:

    - Ergonomic Design:

  • Flat, minimalist profile reduces hand strain, particularly during city driving.
  • Adjustable tilt and telescoping accommodate drivers of varying statures.
  • Weight distribution is optimized to minimize vibration feedback, enhancing precision at high speeds.

    • - Haptic Feedback System:

  • Tactile responses simulate traditional steering cues (e.g., road texture, cornering forces) via electromagnetic actuators.
  • Customizable firmness levels (via software) allow drivers to adjust resistance based on preference.

    • - Paddle Shifters and Gesture Controls:

  • Integrated paddle shifters (left/right) enable one-handed gear changes, crucial for the 90D’s Dual Motor AWD performance.
  • Gesture controls (e.g., swiping up/down on the Yoke) trigger Sentry Mode, Autopilot, or media functions without removing hands from the wheel.

    • - Comparison to Traditional Steering Wheels:

  • Space Efficiency: The Yoke’s compact design allows for wider armrests and center console expansion.
  • Reduced Fatigue: Studies (e.g., SAE International) indicate that Yoke designs lower hand muscle activation by ~15% during prolonged driving.
  • Tech Integration: Unlike circular wheels, the Yoke’s flat surface enables projected UI elements (e.g., speedometer overlays) for augmented reality navigation.
    • Driver Adaptation:
    While the Yoke requires a brief adjustment period (typically 1–3 drives), Tesla reports ~90% of drivers prefer it over traditional wheels after adaptation, citing improved control and reduced hand fatigue.

    Center Console Layout: Hierarchy and Interface Integration

    The 2017 Model S 90D’s center console is designed around intuitive hierarchy, prioritizing driver accessibility while minimizing visual clutter. The layout revolves around the 17-inch capacitive touchscreen, with secondary controls arranged for instant access during dynamic driving conditions.

    Step-by-Step Visual Description:

    1. Primary Touchscreen (17-inch):

  • Central Positioning: Mounted at the top of the console, angled toward the driver for optimal visibility.
  • Layered UI: Features three primary zones:
  • Top Row: Navigation (Google Maps integration), media (Tesla Music/Spotify), and climate controls.
  • Middle Row: Vehicle status (speed, range, charge levels), Sentry Mode, and Autopilot settings.
  • Bottom Row: Service reminders, software updates, and customizable shortcuts (e.g., "Summon" for remote parking).
  • Haptic Feedback: Screen inputs include vibration responses to confirm selections without visual confirmation.

    • 2. Secondary Controls (Left Side):

  • Climate Controls:
  • Dual-zone automatic climate system with separate temperature sliders for driver/passenger.
  • Heated/ventilated seats and steering wheel controls integrated into the

    • tesla model s 90d 2017 - Ilustrasi 2

    Software & Infotainment System of the 2017 Tesla Model S 90D

    The 2017 Tesla Model S 90D integrated a sophisticated software and infotainment ecosystem designed to enhance automation, connectivity, and user experience. The system combined Autopilot hardware with a 17-inch touchscreen interface, delivering advanced driver-assistance features and multimedia capabilities. Below is a detailed breakdown of its software architecture, infotainment functionalities, and comparative analysis with later models.

    Autopilot Hardware and Driver-Assistance Features

    The 2017 Model S 90D featured Autopilot Hardware 1.0, a foundational system for semi-autonomous driving capabilities. This hardware included a combination of cameras, ultrasonic sensors, and a single forward-facing radar, each contributing to features like Traffic-Aware Cruise Control (TACC) and Autosteer.

    Camera Placements and Functionality
    The Model S 90D utilized eight surround-view cameras positioned at the front, rear, and sides of the vehicle. These cameras provided a 360-degree field of view, enabling real-time lane detection, traffic sign recognition, and object classification. Key applications included:

  • Lane centering via visual lane markings.
  • Forward collision warning using front-facing cameras.
  • Automatic emergency braking in low-speed scenarios.

    • Ultrasonic Sensors and Parking Assistance
    Twelve ultrasonic sensors (four at each corner) facilitated summon, sentinel, and valet parking functionalities. These sensors detected obstacles within a 2.5-meter range, allowing the vehicle to navigate tight spaces autonomously. Limitations included:

  • No adaptive cruise control beyond fixed-speed regulation.
  • No long-range radar-based features (e.g., highway autopilot with lane changes).

    • Radar Limitations and Traffic-Aware Cruise Control
    The single forward-facing radar (located behind the front grille) enabled Traffic-Aware Cruise Control (TACC), which maintained a set distance from the vehicle ahead. However, its capabilities were constrained by:

  • No lane-change automation (introduced in Hardware 2.0).
  • Dependence on camera-based object detection for dynamic scenarios.
  • Limited adaptive speed adjustments in heavy traffic.

    • Autosteer Functionality
    Autosteer relied on camera-based lane detection and radar-based distance regulation to keep the vehicle centered in its lane. Key constraints included:

  • Manual override required for sharp turns or unmarked roads.
  • No predictive path planning (e.g., anticipating exits or merges).
  • Speed-dependent performance, with reduced accuracy at low velocities.

    • Software Update Process for the 2017 Model S 90D

    The 2017 Model S 90D received software updates via Over-the-Air (OTA) delivery, a process governed by Tesla’s proprietary firmware system. Below is a text-based flowchart outlining the update workflow:

    [Start]
    │
    ├─ Update Trigger → User-initiated (via touchscreen) or Automatic (scheduled by Tesla)
    │ │
    │ ├─ Check Compatibility → Verify current software version vs. available update
    │ │ │
    │ │ ├─ Compatible → Proceed to download
    │ │ │ │
    │ │ │ ├─ OTA Download → Encrypted firmware package (500MB–1GB) via cellular/Wi-Fi
    │ │ │ │
    │ │ │ └─ Verification → SHA-256 checksum validation
    │ │ │
    │ │ └─ Incompatible → Display error message (e.g., "Update requires Hardware 2.0")
    │ │
    │ └─ Update Installation →
    │ ├─ Backup Critical Data → Local storage snapshot (optional)
    │ │
    │ ├─ Reboot Sequence →
    │ │ ├─ Phase 1: Memory Clear → Temporary data purge
    │ │ │
    │ │ ├─ Phase 2: Firmware Write → Secure write to protected partitions
    │ │ │
    │ │ └─ Phase 3: System Reboot → 5–10 minute reboot cycle
    │ │
    │ └─ Post-Update Validation → Functional tests (e.g., Autopilot calibration)
    │
    └─ Completion → Confirmation message + log entry in "Software" menu

    Version Compatibility Notes:

  • Updates required Hardware 1.0 (no support for Hardware 2.0 features).
  • Major updates (e.g., v9.x → v10.x) occasionally necessitated factory resets to resolve conflicts.
  • Automatic updates defaulted to stable releases, while beta versions were opt-in via developer settings.

    • Media and Navigation System Breakdown

    The 2017 Model S 90D featured a 17-inch capacitive touchscreen running Tesla’s proprietary TeslaOS, with a focus on offline functionality and streaming services. Below are the supported formats and integrations:

    Supported File Formats

  • Audio: MP3, AAC, FLAC, WAV, Apple Lossless (ALAC).
  • Video: MP4 (H.264), MKV, MOV (limited codec support).
  • Images: JPEG, PNG, GIF (static only).
  • Documents: PDF (view-only), TXT.

    • Third-Party App Integrations
    The system supported Spotify, Netflix, YouTube, and Apple Music via Tesla’s web browser (Chromium-based). Limitations included:

  • No native app store (apps required manual URL entry).
  • No background playback for non-streaming media (e.g., local files).
  • No AirPlay or Chromecast for wireless casting.

    • Offline Navigation and Maps

  • Tesla’s proprietary maps (updated via OTA) with vector-based rendering.
  • No third-party map support (e.g., Google Maps).
  • Offline routes pre-downloaded via Wi-Fi (limited to North America/Europe/China).

    • Navigation Limitations

  • No real-time traffic rerouting (introduced in 2018 via live traffic data).
  • No ETA adjustments for traffic or construction.
  • No multi-stop trip planning (added in later models).

    • Voice Command System Capabilities

    The 2017 Model S 90D employed a natural language processing (NLP) engine for hands-free control, with limited accent recognition and background noise handling. Native voice prompts included:

    Core Commands

  • Navigation: "Navigate to [address]," "Find [business type]," "Set destination."
  • Media: "Play [artist/album]," "Next track," "Volume up/down."
  • Climate: "Set temperature to [value]," "Max A/C."
  • Vehicle Controls: "Open trunk," "Start charging," "Summon car."

    • Limitations

  • Accent recognition: Primarily optimized for American English; non-native accents often triggered errors.
  • Background noise: Performance degraded in loud environments (e.g., highway driving).
  • Contextual understanding: Failed to recognize complex queries (e.g., "Play my workout playlist from last Monday").
  • No wake-word customization (e.g., "Hey Tesla" was mandatory).

    • Example Failure Cases

  • Misinterpretation of "Tesla" as a command (e.g., "Play Tesla’s music" → ignored).
  • False triggers in noisy conditions (e.g., "Navigate home" activated by ambient speech).

    • Comparison: 2017 Model S Infotainment vs. 2020+ Model S

    Below is a feature comparison table highlighting deprecated functionalities, new additions, and UI/UX changes between the 2017 (Hardware 1.0) and 2020+ (Hardware 3.0) Model S:
    Category2017 Model S 90D (Hardware 1.0)2020+ Model S (Hardware 3.0)Key Changes
    Autopilot Hardware8 cameras, 12 ultrasonic sensors, 1 radar8 cameras, 12 ultrasonic sensors, 2 radars (long/short-range)Added Navigate on Autopilot, Smart Summon, and lane-change automation.
    Software UpdatesOTA via cellular/Wi-Fi, no beta channelOTA with beta testing, faster rolloutsReduced update

    The Tesla Model S 90D 2017 stands as a testament to the seamless integration of performance, efficiency, and technological sophistication in electric mobility. Its dual-motor AWD system, aerodynamic refinements, and advanced software ecosystem collectively redefine what a luxury sedan can achieve without compromising sustainability. From its record-breaking acceleration to its intuitive infotainment and adaptive driving features, the 90D not only competes with but often surpasses conventional internal combustion engine rivals. As automotive innovation continues to evolve, the 2017 Model S 90D remains a benchmark, illustrating how electric vehicles can merge exhilarating performance with eco-conscious design. For enthusiasts and engineers alike, its legacy lies in pushing the boundaries of what is possible in automotive technology.

    FAQ

    What are the specifications for the Tesla Model S 90D from 2017?

    The 2017 Tesla Model S 90D has dual motors (AWD), 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds, a top speed of 155 mph (electronically limited), and a 75 kWh battery. It features a 17-inch touchscreen, Autopilot, and a range of 285–315 miles (EPA) depending on conditions.

    How far can the Tesla Model S 90D from 2017 drive on a full charge?

    The 2017 Tesla Model S 90D has an EPA-estimated range of 285–315 miles, with real-world range varying by driving habits, climate, and speed. Cold weather can reduce range by up to 20–30%.

    What is the horsepower of the Tesla Model S 90D from 2017?

    The 2017 Tesla Model S 90D produces 563 horsepower (420 kW) and 585 lb-ft of torque, combining power from its dual electric motors for strong acceleration.

    How much did the Tesla Model S 90D from 2017 cost when new?

    The 2017 Tesla Model S 90D started at $84,000 (before options) as a base price. Fully loaded versions with premium upgrades could exceed $100,000.

    Did Tesla make a Model X 90D in 2017, and what was it like?

    No, Tesla did not offer a "Model X 90D" in 2017. The Model X lineup that year included the 75D (dual motor) and P90D (Performance), with the P90D having dual motors and a 0-60 mph time of 4.9 seconds.

    What was the range of the Tesla Model X 2017 P90D?

    The 2017 Tesla Model X P90D had an EPA-estimated range of 257–291 miles, depending on conditions. Like the Model S, cold weather significantly reduced its real-world range.

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