The 2012 model year marked a notable step in electric vehicle availability as Tesla moved from niche to broader showroom presence, giving buyers real choices in performance and daily use. That year’s lineup shows how range, battery capacity, and production status varied as EV tech matured.
There are 5 2012 Tesla Models, ranging from Model S 85 to Roadster Sport, which together illustrate differences in battery size and real-world range. For each entry you’ll find below the columns Production status (2012),Battery (kWh),Range (km) so you can compare which models were in production, their pack size, and how far they could go — you’ll find below.
How much farther could the Model S 85 go compared with the Roadster Sport?
The Model S 85 used an 85 kWh pack designed for long-distance use, typically delivering substantially more range than the Roadster Sport, which prioritized lightweight performance over maximum range; specific km figures for each are listed in the table below so you can see the exact gap.
Were all five Tesla models actively produced in 2012?
Not necessarily—some entries reflect limited or prior production runs and special editions; the Production status (2012) column in the list below indicates which models were in full production, which were limited, and which were carryovers or low-volume offerings.
2012 Tesla Models
| Model | Production status (2012) | Battery (kWh) | Range (km) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roadster | Limited production (until 2012) | 53 | 393 |
| Roadster Sport | Limited production (until 2012) | 53 | 393 |
| Model S 85 | In production (launched and delivered 2012) | 85 | 426 |
| Model S Signature Series 85 | Limited deliveries (June 2012) | 85 | 426 |
| Model S Signature Performance (P85) | Limited deliveries (June 2012) | 85 | 410 |
Images and Descriptions
Roadster
Tesla Roadster, a two-seat electric sports car produced in low volumes through early 2012. It used a 53 kWh battery with roughly 393 km range. Notable as Tesla’s first production EV, proving long-range lithium-ion technology in a sports car.
Roadster Sport
Roadster Sport was an uprated performance variant of the Roadster available in 2012; same 53 kWh battery with similar ~393 km range but higher power and quicker acceleration. It showcased Tesla’s performance tuning and helped build brand enthusiasm.
Model S 85
Model S 85 was Tesla’s first full-production luxury sedan, launched and delivered in 2012 with an 85 kWh battery and approximately 426 km EPA range. It redefined electric-car practicality with four-door comfort, long range, and strong sales momentum.
Model S Signature Series 85
Signature Series Model S were limited first-production units delivered starting June 2012; primarily 85 kWh cars with roughly 426 km range. They offered early-adopter exclusives, priority delivery and historical significance as the first customer Model S examples.
Model S Signature Performance (P85)
Signature Performance (P85) were limited high-performance Model S deliveries in 2012 with an 85 kWh pack and slightly reduced range around 410 km. They combined the debut luxury sedan’s range with factory performance upgrades and were coveted by enthusiasts.
