5 min read
Top 14 Coolest Tesla Features
Top 14 Tesla features
Tesla is constantly pushing the boundaries when it comes to electric cars with innovative features and interesting tech. The company’s focus on renewable energy alone has made a huge impact on the auto industry, encouraging other manufacturers to reduce their environmental impact.
Many aspects of these electric vehicles can’t be found in other cars. In this blog, we tell you about 14 of the coolest Tesla characteristics you might not have heard of.
1. Keycard Entry
Tesla keycards provide a convenient backup option to standard keys and key fobs. Tap the keycard on the side of the door to unlock the electric vehicle or use it hands-free. The keycard is much easier to replace or reconfigure compared to a keyfob, at a much lower cost. This option is compatible with Model 3 and Model Y vehicles, as well as the refreshed 2021+ Model S and Model X.
2. Supercharging
Electric cars can take a very long time to charge, but that’s not the case for Tesla, which has its own extensive network across the United States, Canada, and other countries. These vehicles gain up to 322km in just 15 minutes of charging. Charge your car faster and get back on the road in no time. Superchargers are conveniently positioned along the Trans Canada highway by amenities like hotels, shopping centers, and other important stops.
3. Autopilot
Autopilot gives you a little extra assistance when it comes to highway driving. From slowing down in traffic to auto-steering, this feature might be able to help you navigate the roads smoothly. However, you must keep your hands on the wheel, your eyes on the road, and your attention on the drive.
4. HVAC Features
You want to be comfortable when you’re in the car. State-of-the-art HVAC features keep you cool on hot summer days and warm in chilly weather. There is one main air vent across the dashboard that blows straight and another vent below that blows upward. The angle of the vents helps distribute air throughout the vehicle and allows for adjustments. Speaking of adjustments, everything is controlled easily on the touchscreen.
5. Over-the-Air Updates
Many vehicles require you to manually make updates. These EVs save you the hassle with free, over-the-air software updates. Get the latest car features or important tweaks without any effort. The car connects to WiFi and improves itself just like the cellphone in your pocket. With this technology, you can experience the latest that your car has to offer with little to no effort.
6. Bioweapon Defense Mode
You never know what situation you might find yourself in when traveling. The Model S and Model X vehicles have HEPA filtration systems that create a safe interior breathing space. It will filter out smoke, airborne pathogens, allergens, exhaust fumes, and other harmful particles. One example of when this would be extremely helpful is if you are driving in an area with wildfires.
The automotive company actually tested out its filtration system by putting a Model X car in an airtight bubble filled with dangerous levels of pollution. Once the doors were closed and the Defense Mode was activated, the air quality dropped within “Good” ratings set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
7. Sentry Mode
Sentry Mode is designed to dissuade intruders from vandalizing or tampering with your vehicle. If someone is too close to the vehicle for an extended period of time, cameras will start recording. A message will pop up signaling that its recording and classical music will begin playing. Ideally, a burglar will realize that it’s the wrong vehicle to break into. You can also turn on Sentry Mode yourself for additional peace of mind.
8. Dance Mode
Have you ever seen a car dance? Model X can put on a performance when you enter a secret code. Flashing lights, moving doors, and loud music keep you entertained. Dance Mode takes place when you’re outside of the vehicle. Make sure to give your car extra space as it goes about its musical routine.
9. Dog Mode
Do you bring your furry friend along with you on your travels? Dog Mode might be perfect for you. When leaving your pup in the car, you can activate Dog Mode to set a safe temperature while you’re gone. Car interiors can reach dangerously high, life-threatening temperatures for dogs. By regulating the temperature and keeping it at a safe level, dogs can stay comfortable while waiting for their owners to return.
The other concern Dog Mode covers are passersby that see the waiting pup. The car’s screen will display a message that the dog is sitting at a safe temperature and that its owner is going to return soon. This will provide owners and others peace of mind.
10. Romance Mode
Your car can help set the mood for a romantic evening with Romance Mode. A realistic fireplace pops up on the screen for you to enjoy with your significant other. Climate control sets off warm air and heated seats while romantic music floats through the speakers. Whether you’re headed out on a date or spending time together on a long drive, Romance Mode can cultivate a loving atmosphere.
11. Gaming
CEO Elon Musk has emphasized the importance of entertainment in cars that can drive themselves. Therefore, he’s pushed for gaming right in the vehicles. His company has been working on a program called Tesla Arcade. They’re continuing to work with video game studios to facilitate a collection of games and hope to end up with connections to PlayStation and Xbox.
12. Streaming and Connectivity
With these EVs, you can stream your favorite movies and TV shows right in your car. Access your favorite streaming services and view your entertainment right on the car’s screen. You can watch Netflix, YouTube, Disney+, and more, but you must be parked to play the show. This restriction is for safety reasons.
Internet connectivity is also huge. You can access the web from your car, as long as you’re parked. Hop on your favorite websites and utilize the internet without having to get out your phone or laptop. 2022 brought some powerful updates to the browsing experience with browsing history, favorites, a new welcome stream, autofill, and much more.
13. Caraoke
Enjoy a nice round of karaoke right in your car with Tesla’s version, Caraoke. You can choose between music that has vocals or does not. Then, you’ll be able to see the lyrics on the car’s screen. When the lyrics are displayed, you’ll still be able to see pertinent car information.
If you have a 2022 EV, you should be good to go. Caraoke just requires MCU 2 or higher. Cars made before 2018 may be upgraded to MCU 2 and all cars after 2018 should have it. Caraoke is compatible with all models, including Model S, Model 3, Model X, and Model Y.
14. Easter Eggs
Maybe one of the most intriguing features of a Tesla is the easter eggs. These are hidden features that require a certain action to be activated. Here are some of the most unique:
Subwoofer easter egg: When you raise the bass to its highest level, words like “BOOM” and “SLAPPIN” pop up.Back to the Future easter egg: At exactly 121 km of range, activating this will change the wording on your car screen to mimic the DeLorean's movie Back to the Future.
Mario Cart easter egg: You can turn your road image to look like the rainbow road in Mario Cart.
Charging port colors easter egg: With ten quick presses, you can activate the charging port to switch between a rainbow of colors before returning to its original hue.
These are just some of the easter eggs you’ll encounter with these vehicles. There are many more hinting at cultural icons, famous movies, and holidays. Updates introduce new easter eggs so you never know what the next surprise is going to be.
As you can see, Tesla vehicles are equipped with a bunch of entertaining and engaging features. In addition to the major environmental benefits of driving one of these electric vehicles, you can join an elite group of car owners ready to take their driving experience to the next level with a range of unexpected features.