I remembered seeing this but couldn't find it on TMC. So here's from TM's forum: Model S horsepower | Forums | Tesla Motors *edit* and the TMC discussion: Horsepower
We have an old torque graph that gives us 415 nm at 7000 rpm, given it's still accurate and depicts the 85 kwh battery standard model: 415 nm = 304 kw (@7000 rpm) = 408 hp (The horsepower used for electrical machines is defined as exactly 746 W). We dont seem to have much on the performance model but VolkerP used some number mentioned about the larger current (900A -> 1200A) to estimate how much more power that would deliver. http://www.teslamotorsclub.com/showthread.php/8021-Is-4-4-seconds-vs-5-6-seconds-alone-worth-10k/page13
That's a lot of HP! Same as the Karma (and the Model S weighs about 1300lbs less!). Why is the torque number so low relative to the HP? The Karma has 959lb-ft of torque for 403hp, but looks like the Model S only has 306 lbft.
Different type of electric motors, the tesla motor (AC induction) has less torque but can spin much faster so it needs less gearing, meaning more torque transferred to the wheels. The karma motor (permanent magnet) doesn't rev as much so its geared much higher to cover the same speeds, less torque on the wheels. [Power = Torque x Angular velocity]
Interesting to read this. I currently drive a Karma. Those 402 HP are only available though in Sport Mode with the gasoline engine and generator providing extra current to the two electric engines (which isn't really how I want to be driving an EV). In pure electric Stealth Mode it's about 250 HP. Still, despite of that and despite of the weight the Karma feels pretty quick off the mark.
The Karma/Model S motor comparison has been discussed previously here and here. Please keep that comparison discussion in that thread.