Since its introduction in 2012, the Tesla Model S has transformed the automotive industry with its groundbreaking technology and impressive performance. Tesla is and always has been an innovator in not only the EV space, but in the automotive industry as a whole.

While many car models undergo frequent redesigns, the Model S has remained remarkably consistent in its exterior design. Let’s explore the merits of maintaining the original design of the Model S for almost a decade, highlighting Tesla’s innovative approach to updates and the car’s enduring style.

Tesla Model S: unchanged exterior, a winning legacy

The Tesla Model S made consumers swoon with its sleek, aerodynamic design and exceptional performance. Surprisingly, the Model S has not undergone significant exterior changes since its debut in 2012. Some might question the lack of a major redesign, but preserving a winning formula has its merits.

Edmunds has this to say about the Model S. “We contend that the first vehicle that Tesla built in-house — the Model S — was the best it ever produced.”

The Model S has remained unchanged while several new Tesla EVs have hit the market. Remarkably, it has changed very little since it hit the market. When asked whether there would be changes to the Model S, Elon Musk squashed rumors of both a next-gen Model S and Model X. On Twitter he said that, “There is no “refreshed” Model X or Model S coming, only a series of minor ongoing changes.” 

Aging with grace

The Model S’s timeless design is a testament to its ability to age gracefully. Tesla’s commitment to clean lines and minimalist aesthetics ensures that the Model S retains a modern and sophisticated look, defying its age. This restraint in unnecessary embellishments allows the car to maintain its allure, representing elegance and innovation.

As a result, the lack of changes really speaks to the appeal of the Model S. As the saying goes, it’s hard to improve upon perfection. Tesla brilliantly designed the model to be future-proof in a sense.

Tesla provides seamless over-the-air updates

Owning a Tesla vehicle, including the Model S, comes with the unique advantage of receiving software updates over-the-air. Tesla’s dedication to continuous improvement allows them to enhance the car’s features without requiring physical alterations.

This capability reinforces the notion that the Model S’s exterior design remains relevant when updates can be effortlessly integrated through software advancements. The ability to push updates without the need to update the hardware is one of the many reasons why the Model S remains relatively unchanged today.

Tesla Model S: innovative technology, timeless appeal

The Model S’s unchanging design is complemented by its state-of-the-art technology, such as a driver assistance system called Autopilot. The feature enables the car to steer, accelerate, and brake automatically within its lane.

The function does not replace the role of a driver or qualify for autonomous driving but is intended to make driving easier and cut down on accidents. This seamless integration of advancements within the Model S ensures its continued desirability and relevance in the ever-evolving automotive landscape.

The Tesla Model S stands as an iconic representation of electric luxury that defies the conventional need for constant redesign. Its unaltered exterior design since 2012 highlights the car’s timeless elegance and Tesla’s commitment to functionality and innovation. With the ability to make effortless over-the-air updates, Tesla demonstrates that substantial changes to the exterior are not always necessary to enhance the driving experience.

The enduring appeal of the Model S, combined with its cutting-edge technology, cements its status as a symbol of electric luxury and a testament to Tesla’s forward-thinking approach.