The 2017 Tesla Model S with the 60 kW-hr battery pack gets 99 MPG combined. That figure is impressive, especially considering this isn’t a cramped hybrid hatchback. The Model S is a large, luxurious, and explosively quick sedan that uses electricity instead of gasoline. This level of efficiency reshapes expectations for what a performance vehicle can achieve, and it’s a core reason why early adopters and tech-savvy buyers embraced the Model S so enthusiastically.

City and highway performance

The EPA numbers show how efficient electric motors are. In city driving, the 2017 Model S 60 achieves an impressive 98 MPG. Stop-and-go traffic, where conventional gasoline engines waste fuel idling, actually benefits electric vehicles through regenerative braking. This system captures kinetic energy during deceleration and converts it back into electricity, replenishing the battery and extending range. On the highway, the Model S 60 performs even better, achieving 101 MPG. This is partly due to the lack of energy wasted idling, but also due to aerodynamic efficiency and the consistent speed enabling lower energy consumption.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Tesla Model S 60 at $750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average electricity price. This presents a strong case for electric vehicle ownership, particularly for those who drive a significant number of miles. For comparison, many gasoline-powered luxury sedans will cost drivers more than twice that amount in fuel each year, representing huge savings.

Real-world expectations

While the official EPA numbers provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy for the Model S 60 can vary based on several factors. Driving style plays a significant role. Aggressive acceleration and high speeds will deplete the battery faster than gentle, consistent driving. Weather conditions also have an impact. Cold temperatures can reduce battery performance. Using features like air conditioning or heating also leads to more energy consumption. Despite these variables, most owners find that the Model S 60 consistently delivers impressive efficiency, often exceeding the EPA estimates in mild weather with careful driving.

How it compares

Direct comparisons between the Model S 60 and traditional gasoline cars are almost comical and shows a reason why people looked at all all Tesla fuel economy data in shock. To find a comparable level of luxury and performance, you’d have to look at something like a BMW 5 Series or Mercedes-Benz E-Class. These vehicles typically achieve combined MPG figures in the low-to-mid 20s. The BMW 530i, for instance, achieves 27 MPG combined, while the Mercedes-Benz E300 manages 25 MPG. Even hybrid versions of these cars struggle to approach the Model S 60’s efficiency. Also worth noting is the MPG difference across all MODEL MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of regenerative braking. Experiment with the “Standard” and “Low” regenerative braking modes to find the setting that best suits your driving style. Maximizing regenerative braking is critical for extending your range.

Precondition the cabin while the car is plugged in. Heating or cooling the interior while the car is connected to the charger draws power from the grid rather than the battery, conserving your driving range when you hit the road.

Monitor your tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces efficiency. Keep your tires inflated to the recommended pressure for optimal performance and range.

Minimize aerodynamic drag. Remove any unnecessary items from the roof rack or cargo area, and avoid aggressive driving at high speeds. The faster you drive, the more energy is required.