The Model S was the first Tesla model to use a dual-motor all-wheel-drive configuration.
Tesla introduced dual-motor all-wheel drive for the Model S in 2014. The system used separate electric motors for the front and rear axles, allowing electronic control of torque at each end of the car without a conventional mechanical driveshaft connecting the axles. Tesla marketed the configuration as providing improved traction and stronger performance.
The dual-motor arrangement later became important across Tesla’s lineup. It was used in versions of the Model X and offered in selected Model 3 and Model Y configurations. Tesla also used performance-focused versions with different motor tuning and battery specifications.
The Model S is sometimes confused with the Model X because the SUV also received dual-motor all-wheel drive early in its development. However, the Model S introduced Tesla’s production dual-motor system first. “Dual motor” describes the drivetrain layout; it does not by itself identify a particular battery size or performance trim.