On Wednesday 22nd February Performance in People (PiP) were treated to a visit from the innovative Tesla team at our HQ on the Isle of Wight. The team from Southampton Tesla brought along the Tesla Model Y and Model 3, and showcased the incredibly intelligent technology and forward thinking zero-emissions, sustainable driving features.
PiP staff were also treated to a test drive which brought these features to life - and it’s safe to say that everyone was super impressed! Staff were returning to the office with big smiles on their faces and we just couldn’t stop talking about how cool these cars were, and how enjoyable there were to drive.
Top 10 features you may not have known about a Tesla:
1. Only one touchscreen.
A single centre screen that controls everything you need to do, from running the car and playing the radio to finding driving directions. No other car has such a pared-down layout. Even the button to open the glove compartment is on the one and only screen!
2. Supercharging
Tesla has its own charging network, exclusive to Tesla owners. The fast charging adds up to 200 miles in just 15 minutes!
3. Free over-the-air updates
Tesla was the first to treat its cars like mobile phones. Tesla's software connects to WiFi and can update a long list of car functions. When there was a braking problem a few years ago, an OTA update even fixed that!
4. Sentry Mode
If someone gets too close to your Tesla for too long, the cameras start recording, a message appears on the screen that the car is recording, and classical music starts playing from the audio system.
5. Dog Mode
Dog mode is for dogs to chill in the car. Parked cars overheat and are unsafe for dogs, but with this mode engaged, the car is kept cool with the air system still on even with the car in park. Plus, an on-screen message on the centre console says "My owner will be back soon" to let passers-by know your dog is safe.
6. Bioweapon Defence Mode
This mode came in handy during the devastating Western U.S. wildfires throughout 2020. It's available with Model S and X cars that have a HEPA filtration system that automatically turns the car into a safe breathing space.
7. Netflix, Hulu, YouTube streaming
You can watch all your favourite shows in your Tesla when in parked. You can log onto the various streaming platforms when waiting in the car, most likely while charging up.
8. Caraoke
More entertainment in the car! This time it's karaoke, with lyrics to popular songs appearing on the touchscreen when parked.
9. Fart Mode
You can make your Tesla fart, or at least sound like it's farting. Officially called ‘Emissions testing mode’, the setting is perfect for pranksters. You can turn on the fart sounds on-demand, or when you push the turn signal.
10. Easter Eggs
Beyond all the various modes and games, more surprises are sprinkled throughout the car. There's a Christmas jingle hidden within the settings, along with an inside joke about cowbells. Wikipedia has a list of all the Tesla Easter eggs discovered so far (click here for the full list). Happy egg hunting!
