117 MPG combined. That’s the headline fuel economy figure for the 2020 Tesla Model S Long Range Plus, and it completely redefines what efficiency means in a large, luxurious, and very fast sedan. This isn’t about squeezing out every last mile from a gallon of gasoline; it’s about eliminating gasoline altogether. Model S buyers aren’t cross-shopping with Camry hybrids. They’re looking for a vehicle that delivers supercar performance with the running costs of a subcompact, and the Model S Long Range Plus does exactly that.

City and highway performance

The EPA splits that impressive 117 MPG combined rating into 121 MPG in the city and 112 MPG on the highway. These figures highlight that electric vehicles are often more efficient in city driving. Stop-and-go traffic allows the Model S to capitalize on its regenerative braking system, recapturing energy that would otherwise be lost as heat in a conventional car. Highway driving, while still exceptionally efficient compared to gasoline-powered alternatives, relies more on sustained energy draw to overcome aerodynamic drag at higher speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Tesla Model S Long Range Plus at just $650. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, using the national average electricity prices. Think about that: a luxury sedan capable of sub-4 second 0-60 mph sprints costing less than the average compact car to “fuel” for an entire year. This dramatically lower running cost is a consistent deciding factor for many Model S buyers.

Real-world expectations

Achieving the EPA’s exact 117 MPG equivalent in the real world takes effort, but it’s achievable. Driving style, ambient temperature, and terrain all play a role. Aggressive acceleration and high-speed cruising reduce efficiency, and running the climate control at full blast on particularly hot or cold days does the same. However, even under less-than-ideal conditions, owners can expect to achieve equivalent MPG figures far exceeding what gasoline-powered luxury sedans offer.

Plus, owners with home solar panels may effectively drive for free, or at least at reduced rates, which further drops expenses.

How it compares

Comparing the 2020 Model S Long Range Plus to its gasoline-powered rivals reveals interesting differences. The BMW 540i, for instance, manages a combined 28 MPG. The Mercedes-Benz E450 4MATIC gets a combined 26 MPG. Even high-mileage luxury diesels, like those once offered by Audi, struggle to break the 35 MPG barrier in real-world driving.

For a direct comparison, look at another Tesla model to understand the variations. You can review all Tesla fuel economy data to see how the Long Range Plus compares to the Performance or Standard Range models. Many choose the Model S not only for luxury or performance, but also to bypass gasoline’s cost and environmental impact, which is why the MODEL MPG across all years is so interesting to buyers.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Preconditioning the cabin before departure while the car is still plugged in can significantly reduce energy consumption, particularly in extreme temperatures. This allows the car to draw power from the grid to heat or cool the interior, rather than using battery power while driving.

Gentle acceleration and anticipating traffic flow are key to maximizing efficiency. Avoid sudden bursts of speed and try to maintain a smooth, consistent pace. Using the regenerative braking system effectively by easing off the accelerator early allows the car to recapture energy and slow down more efficiently.

Keep tires properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially as temperatures change.

Reduce aerodynamic drag whenever possible. Remove roof racks or cargo carriers when not in use, as they can significantly impact efficiency at higher speeds.