Introduction
Tesla Energy Consumption per Model Chart to dominate the global electric vehicle market with its advanced battery technology, energy-efficient motors, and highly optimized software. For EV buyers, fleet managers, and sustainability-focused decision-makers, understanding energy consumption per Tesla model is critical. It helps estimate real-world range, charging costs, long-term battery health, and overall value for money.
What Is Energy Consumption in Tesla Vehicles?
Energy consumption in electric vehicles is usually measured as Wh per mile or Wh per kilometer, representing the amount of energy a car requires to travel a specific distance.
Why It Matters
Understanding Tesla’s energy consumption helps you calculate:
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Real-world range compared to the advertised EPA range
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Actual electricity costs
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Charging frequency
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Battery wear and long-term performance
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Efficiency differences between models
In simple terms, lower Wh/mi means better efficiency and lower charging costs.
Factors Affecting Tesla’s Energy Consumption
Before comparing models, it’s important to know what influences energy use.
1. Battery Size
Larger battery packs improve range but often lead to slightly higher energy use.
2. Motor Type
Tesla offers:
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Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
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Dual-Motor All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
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Tri-Motor Plaid
More motors = more performance but higher consumption.
3. Vehicle Weight
Heavier cars require more energy to move.
4. Aerodynamics
Tesla’s sleek designs reduce drag and improve efficiency, especially at highway speeds.
5. Driving Conditions
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City driving reduces consumption
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Highway driving increases consumption
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Cold weather battery conditioning increases energy use
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Aggressive acceleration dramatically raises Wh/mi
Tesla Energy Consumption Chart (2025)
Below is a simplified chart of Tesla’s average energy consumption per model. Values are real-world tested averages.
Note: Energy consumption varies by driving style, temperature, and tire choice.
Tesla Energy Consumption Per Model Table
Table: Average Energy Consumption (Wh/mi) – Most Common Variants
| Tesla Model | Variant | Battery Size | Average Energy Consumption (Wh/mi) | Approx Wh/km | Real-World Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Model 3 | RWD | 57 kWh | 240–260 Wh/mi | 150–160 Wh/km | 250–285 miles |
| Model 3 | Long Range AWD | 75 kWh | 260–290 Wh/mi | 160–180 Wh/km | 295–330 miles |
| Model 3 | Performance | 75 kWh | 290–310 Wh/mi | 180–190 Wh/km | 280–300 miles |
| Model Y | RWD | 60 kWh | 250–270 Wh/mi | 155–168 Wh/km | 245–265 miles |
| Model Y | Long Range AWD | 78 kWh | 275–310 Wh/mi | 170–186 Wh/km | 315–340 miles |
| Model Y | Performance | 78 kWh | 300–330 Wh/mi | 186–205 Wh/km | 280–310 miles |
| Model S | Dual Motor AWD | 100 kWh | 300–330 Wh/mi | 186–205 Wh/km | 345–375 miles |
| Model S | Plaid | 100 kWh | 340–380 Wh/mi | 210–235 Wh/km | 310–340 miles |
| Model X | Dual Motor AWD | 100 kWh | 360–390 Wh/mi | 224–242 Wh/km | 320–350 miles |
| Model X | Plaid | 100 kWh | 380–420 Wh/mi | 235–260 Wh/km | 285–320 miles |
| Cybertruck | Dual Motor AWD | 123 kWh | 460–510 Wh/mi | 285–315 Wh/km | 340–365 miles |
| Cybertruck | Tri Motor “Beast” | 123 kWh | 500–550 Wh/mi | 310–340 Wh/km | 300–325 miles |
Tesla Model-Wise Detailed Breakdown
1. Tesla Model 3 Energy Consumption
The Tesla Model 3 is recognized globally as the most energy-efficient electric car in the mass-market segment.
Why It’s Efficient
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Lightweight design
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Highly aerodynamic body
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Efficient rear-drive setup (in RWD models)
Model 3 RWD (Most Efficient Tesla)
Expect 240–260 Wh/mi, making it the closest Tesla to achieving 5 miles per kWh in ideal conditions.
Who Should Buy
Urban commuters, fleet operators, ride-share drivers.
2. Tesla Model Y Energy Consumption
The Model Y is now Tesla’s best-selling SUV globally.
Model Y Long Range AWD
Average consumption is 275–310 Wh/mi, slightly higher due to:
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Heavier crossover body
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AWD dual motors
Why It’s Popular
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Practical
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Spacious
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Balanced efficiency
3. Tesla Model S Energy Consumption
The Model S remains Tesla’s luxury sedan flagship with high performance and large battery capacity.
Model S Dual Motor
Energy consumption averages 300–330 Wh/mi.
Model S Plaid (Tri-Motor)
Consumption rises to 340–380 Wh/mi due to extreme performance.
Who Should Buy
Drivers seeking luxury, technology, and long-distance comfort.
4. Tesla Model X Energy Consumption
The Model X is the least efficient Tesla due to:
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Large weight
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Bigger battery
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SUV aerodynamics
Model X AWD
Consumption typically ranges from 360–390 Wh/mi.
Model X Plaid
Peaks at 380–420 Wh/mi, especially at high speeds.
5. Tesla Cybertruck Energy Consumption
The Cybertruck is Tesla’s newest model and the most energy-demanding.
Heaviest Energy Use Among Teslas
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Large battery (123 kWh)
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Sharp angles increase aerodynamic drag
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Heavy body and motor configuration
Cybertruck Dual Motor
Average consumption: 460–510 Wh/mi
Cybertruck Beast
Energy consumption can exceed 500–550 Wh/mi during off-road or towing conditions.
Cost of Driving Each Tesla Model
Understanding energy consumption helps calculate electricity cost per mile.
Below is an estimated cost breakdown assuming $0.14 per kWh average electricity price.
Estimated Charging Cost Per 100 Miles
| Tesla Model | Avg Wh/mi | kWh per 100 miles | Cost per 100 miles |
|---|---|---|---|
| Model 3 RWD | 250 | 25 kWh | $3.50 |
| Model 3 Long Range | 275 | 27.5 kWh | $3.85 |
| Model Y LR | 290 | 29 kWh | $4.06 |
| Model S | 320 | 32 kWh | $4.48 |
| Model X | 380 | 38 kWh | $5.32 |
| Cybertruck Dual Motor | 500 | 50 kWh | $7.00 |
Insight:
The most efficient Tesla costs about 3× less per mile than the Cybertruck.
How to Lower Tesla Energy Consumption
1. Use Regenerative Braking Effectively
Tesla’s regen braking can recover up to 60% of energy in city driving.
2. Maintain Optimal Tire Pressure
Under-inflated tires can increase consumption by 5–15%.
3. Use “Chill Mode” and Smooth Acceleration
Aggressive acceleration is the biggest cause of high Wh/mi spikes.
4. Precondition Battery Before Fast Charging
Reduces charging losses and improves efficiency.
5. Reduce High-Speed Driving
Above 70 mph, energy consumption rises significantly.
6. Minimize Unnecessary Weight
Roof racks and cargo increase aerodynamic drag.
Tesla Energy Consumption Compared to Other EV Brands
Tesla consistently ranks as one of the most energy-efficient EV manufacturers, outperforming brands like:
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Ford
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Rivian
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BMW
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Mercedes EQ
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Volvo Recharge
This is due to Tesla’s:
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Lighter battery packs
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Superior aerodynamics
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High-efficiency permanent magnet motors
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Proprietary heat-pump systems
Which Tesla Model Is the Most Energy-Efficient?
Winner: Tesla Model 3 RWD
With as low as 240 Wh/mi, the Model 3 RWD remains the most efficient Tesla ever built.
Runner-Up: Tesla Model Y RWD
Highly efficient for an SUV, averaging 250–270 Wh/mi.
Which Tesla Model Consumes the Most Energy?
Highest Consumption: Cybertruck Tri-Motor Beast
Reaching up to 550 Wh/mi, no other Tesla requires more energy per mile.
Is Tesla Energy Consumption Better in 2025 Models?
Yes. Tesla’s 2024–2025 updates include:
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Improved heat pump design
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Better battery chemistry
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Software-based energy optimization
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Enhanced aerodynamic wheel covers
These improvements deliver 3–7% efficiency gains across most models.
Conclusion
Tesla vehicles offer some of the best energy efficiency in the global EV market. Understanding each model’s energy consumption helps buyers make informed decisions based on driving habits, cost of charging, and range requirements.
From the ultra-efficient Model 3 RWD to the powerful Cybertruck Beast, Tesla offers models for every type of driver—each with unique energy profiles.