CaryRx
Member
Love that graphic you included of the elevation!! I have found that the Navigation App seems to estimate things quite accurately so far, and lots of times I use even a bit less energy as I try to "drive nicely" and be conservative. I drove part way through the Tioga a yesterday just to get a feel of the energy burn... it did seem to be pretty accurate, and I was giddy seeing all the REGEN happening when I turned around to head back. I had the afternoon free and decided to take my MS on a road trip. I didn't have time to do the full stretch, but I lived in Missouri long enough that I still live by the motto: "SHOW ME!" Things are looking up for the MS85 trip over Tioga.You are correct that the low speeds over much of the route will be the dominant factor since that greatly increases range due to reduced drag. This is why others here have said that your proposed route is easy to do (no need to charge to 100% at Groveland Supercharger!). I could make your proposed route in my old S-60 with 176 RM total range.
There are mountain routes that are driven at freeway speeds, such as I-80 over Donner Pass (7,056 ft; 2,151 m) and I-70 via the Eisenhower Tunnel (11,158 feet; 3,401 m), where the reduced air density extends range, versus a similar route at sea level. In general, driving at high altitude gives better range than that projected by Tesla's navigation. The trick is to make sure that one has enough charge to get to the top of the pass, rather than focus just on the destination charge level, as one usually does when not driving in the mountains.
For your amusement, an elevation plot of your intended route between the two Supercharger Stations:
View attachment 434972
Enjoy your trip!
Thanks to everyone who has chimed in and given me the benefit of their experience and wisdom!!