Tesla’s Unique Features: Beyond the Ordinary
Tesla has carved out a unique space in the automotive world, not just for its electric powertrains, but also for the cutting-edge technology and distinctive features integrated into its vehicles.
While Autopilot often steals the spotlight, Tesla models offer a plethora of other interesting add-ons and unique touches that reflect the brand’s tech-savvy approach and, at times, Elon Musk’s humor. From practical innovations to quirky easter eggs, here are 23 features that set Tesla apart:
1. Autopilot
All Tesla models come equipped with Autopilot, a driver-assistance system designed to make driving easier and safer. Autopilot enables the car to steer, accelerate, and brake automatically within its lane. The system uses eight cameras and 12 sensors to provide a 360-degree view of the car’s surroundings. Tesla also offers a Full-Self Driving add-on, currently in beta testing, which adds features such as lane changes and traffic light/stop sign recognition.
2. Caraoke
Tesla’s “Caraoke” feature allows owners to select from a vast library of music and song lyrics, for sing-alongs directly from the car’s touchscreen. This feature became particularly popular in China, where Tesla even offered in-car karaoke microphones.
3. Bioweapon Defense Mode
Tesla’s Model X and Model Y, as well as newer versions of the Model S and Model 3, are equipped with a HEPA filtration system. This system is designed to prevent pollutants, bacteria, and pollen from entering the cabin. Tesla has even released demo videos comparing the system to other filtration systems.
4. Touchscreen Interface
All Tesla models feature a large, responsive touchscreen that controls the majority of the car’s functions, from climate control and navigation to entertainment features like streaming services and video games.
5. Streaming, Gaming, and Entertainment
Tesla frequently updates its infotainment system with apps like YouTube, Netflix, and Hulu. Drivers can also access an Arcade setting with a variety of games playable using the steering wheel buttons or external USB controllers.
6. Web Browser
Tesla provides internet connectivity, giving access to features that require data such as streaming music, live traffic visualization, and, with premium connectivity, various websites. This includes access to streaming services like Hulu and Spotify while parked.
7. Easter Eggs
Each Tesla is programmed with hidden “Easter eggs” to surprise and delight owners. These can range from playful animations to hidden features, reflecting Tesla’s dedication to the user experience.
8. Air Suspension
Teslas are equipped with a smart air suspension system that automatically adjusts based on the GPS location of your vehicle. Users also have the ability to manually adjust the suspension firmness through the car’s control panel.
9. Sentry Mode
Sentry Mode uses the car’s external cameras to monitor the surroundings when parked. If someone bumps or attempts to break into the vehicle, the car can automatically record the event and alert the owner through the Tesla app.
10. Supercharger Network
Tesla’s extensive Supercharger network offers fast and convenient charging for Tesla owners. The network continues to grow, and Tesla advertises charges of as little as 15 minutes for up to 200 miles of travel.
11. Key Options
Tesla offers various key options, including a smartphone app, key cards, and key fobs shaped like the car itself. These options provide flexibility for owners to access and operate their vehicles.
12. Auto-Presenting Doors
The Model X features automatic-opening doors that unlock and open as the driver approaches. This feature can be enabled or disabled through the car’s display and offers an added touch of luxury.
13. The Tesla App
The Tesla mobile app allows owners to control various aspects of their vehicle remotely, from checking charging status and climate control to locking/unlocking the car and receiving alerts from Sentry Mode.
14. Over-the-Air Updates
Tesla cars frequently receive over-the-air (OTA) software updates that introduce new features and improvements. This approach allows Tesla to continually enhance the functionality and safety of its vehicles.
15. Ludicrous Plus Mode
For those seeking maximum performance, Ludicrous Plus Mode optimizes the battery’s temperature for peak acceleration, allowing for rapid sprints.
16. Plaid Mode
The Plaid Mode takes performance to the next level, with powerful electric motors delivering extreme acceleration. Tesla’s Model S Plaid, for example, can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just over two seconds.
17. Dog Mode
Dog Mode is designed for pet owners, allowing them to leave their dogs in the car with the climate control system running, maintaining a comfortable temperature. The touchscreen displays a message to reassure passersby that the animal is safe.
18. Automatic Cabin Overheat Protection
Tesla’s Cabin Overheat Protection system automatically activates when the interior temperature reaches 105 degrees Fahrenheit, keeping the cabin from becoming dangerously hot.
19. Fart Mode
Tesla’s “Fart Mode” amuses drivers and passengers with simulated breaking-wind sounds, adding a touch of humor to the driving experience.
20. The Frunk
One of the more notable features of early Teslas was the “frunk” – a trunk in the front of the vehicle, made possible by the absence of a gasoline engine. While some competitors have adopted this approach, the frunk remains a recognizable Tesla innovation.
21. Explicit Lyrics Control
Tesla’s infotainment system allows users to filter explicit lyrics in songs, which is perfect for families with young children.
22. “Actually Smart Summon”
Tesla’s “Smart Summon” feature allows drivers to remotely move their car out of a parking spot; the newer “Actually Smart Summon” feature expands on this functionality by enabling the car to travel to a specific point either to the owner or a set destination.
23. Parental Controls (Night Curfew)
Newer Tesla models are offering features enabling parents to set curfews, speed limits, and acceleration restrictions through the parental controls to monitor teenage drivers.
Tesla’s unique blend of technology, performance, and design has cemented its place as an industry leader, and the company continues to innovate, introducing new features and refinements to enhance the ownership experience. These 23 features are just a glimpse of the innovation found in modern Teslas.
