The Tesla Model S isn't the world's quickest or most luxurious production car, but its electric drivetrain arguably the most tecnologically advanced.
Smartly packaged, the Tesla Model S features an aluminum platform that houses a cutting edge lithium-ion battery cell that sits tidily underneath the passenger floor. Out of the way of the occupants, interior space and cargo areas are optimized. What's more the Model S makes a bold statement with an enormous 17-inch in-dash touchscreen infotainment system sitting squarely in the center console. Armed with every conceivable function at the driver's fingertips, the Tesla's touchscreen features premium audio and radio streaming, navigation, climate control, Bluetooth, internet web browsing, and more.
Finally, it's what lies under the skin of the Tesla Model S that is the most exciting. Tesla boasts the most energy-dense battery pack in the industry. Combined with a best-in-class drag coefficient, the Tesla offers a 300-mile range on a single charge and is capable of accelerating from 0-to-60 mph in just 4.4 seconds.
In order for Tesla to produce the most technologically advanced vehicles on Earth, the company requires the world's most technologically advanced assembly facility. Enter the NUMMI plant, Tesla's 5.5 million square feet automotive facility.
The facility is truly cutting edge. Coils of aluminum are ready at the factory, awaiting to be transformed into blanks that will be pressed into panels for the Model S.
Next, one central location will assemble the panels like a jigsaw puzzle. Starting with the underbody, a synchronized ballet of robotics join the panels together. Joining methods include the use of adhesives, self piercing rivets, cold metal transfer, conventional resistance welding, as well as a new delta spot welding system. Next, the fully assembled body is painted by robots within a specialized clean rooms.
The Tesla Model S body is transported from one sector of the plant to the next via an automated transport method via magnetic strips along the floor that acts as tracks.
All and all, a Tesla Model S is built from raw materials to completion over a span of three days. Be sure to watch the full process of the Tesla Model S production process in the video below!
