FYI: Hansjörg von Gemmingen-Hornberg showcases the remarkable endurance of the Tesla Model S by pushing it to cover 1.2 million miles.
Tesla Model S Owner Reaches 1.2 Million Miles: A Testament to Electric Endurance
Hansjörg von Gemmingen-Hornberg, the proud owner of a 2014 Tesla Model S P85, has achieved an extraordinary milestone by driving 1.2 million miles. His relentless pursuit to push the boundaries of his electric vehicle caught the attention of none other than Elon Musk in 2019. Despite the many obstacles faced, Gemmingen-Hornberg shared some intriguing insights on how his EV withstood such an incredible journey.
Tesla Model S: Overcoming Initial Hurdles
The initial years of the Tesla Model S weren’t without their challenges, particularly with issues surrounding the rear motors. Over the span of his 1.2 million-mile journey, Gemmingen-Hornberg had to replace the car’s engine 13 times, as reported by Inside EVs. This reiterates the trials that early Tesla adopters sometimes faced but also underscores the remarkable advancements Tesla has made over the years.
Battery Endurance: Four Batteries and Counting
Covering such vast distances also took a toll on the car’s batteries. Gemmingen-Hornberg is now on his fourth battery, averaging a new one every 300,000 miles. In a post on X, he detailed the performance of the various batteries:
- 2nd Battery: Lasted for 670,000 km
- 3rd Battery: Managed 555,000 km
- 4th Battery: First new battery clocked at 1,758,033 km, still delivering 350 km at 90% charge
This goes to show that while battery replacements were necessary, they have managed to uphold remarkable longevity and efficiency over time.
Secrets to Achieving High Mileage
Gemmingen-Hornberg attributes his impressive mileage to a few key practices:
- Regular Breaks: He ensures to never drive more than 62 miles at a stretch, which allows both him and the vehicle some respite.
- Battery Management: Rather than letting the battery drain completely, he recharges once it hits about 20%.
These habits not only maintain his health as a driver but also optimize the performance and lifespan of his Model S.
Comparing to Record Holders
While his journey is commendable, Gemmingen-Hornberg is still far from surpassing the highest mileage ever recorded – a title held by Irving Gordon, who managed over 3,000,000 miles on his 1966 Volvo 1800S. However, with his Tesla still operational and on the road, it remains to be seen how much further Gemmingen-Hornberg can go.
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Written by William Rapp, Editor of Automotive.fyi.
This article provides a deep dive into Hansjörg von Gemmingen-Hornberg’s impressive achievement and the resilience of the Tesla Model S. With its engaging tone and structured format, it not only informs but captivates readers about the future potential of electric vehicles.
