The Dutch technology blog Kenteken.tv has uncovered documents indicating that Tesla may roll out versions of the Model S and Model X with 100 kilowatt hour batteries, up from the current 90 kilowatt hour maximum size. The revelation comes from Dutch vehicle registration authorities, who have issued approval for Model S and Model X vehicles with 100D and 100X designations to be sold in the European Union.
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According to the registration data, the new versions of the Model S would get 613 kilometers per charge, or about 381 miles. That’s compared to the 346 mile range of the current 90D Model S, as measured by the European NEDC standard. It’s also just shy of the 434 miles you could go in a 2016 Honda Civic with a full 12.4 gallons of gas at about 35 mpg.
However, it’s worth noting that the accuracy of European range standards are hotly debated. The US EPA says the 90D Model S has a range of 302 miles.
According to Engadget, a 100kwh version of the Model X would likely have a shorter range than the equivalent Model S, but still get more than 300 miles per charge.
For more on Tesla and its batteries, watch our video.
This follows recent hints of the 100kwh versions, including hacker Jason Hughes uncovering references to a “P100D” in existing Model S firmware. The “P” in that designation stands for ‘performance,’ meaning such a model would include features like the infamous Ludicrous Mode. The 100 stands for the size of the battery, while the “D” indicates all-wheel drive.
Tesla has not commented on previous hints at forthcoming larger batteries, so all this remains speculative.
