The S Model electric car is famous for its giant power reserve and fast acceleration. It is almost impossible to distinguish the European modification from the American one in appearance. But the difference becomes noticeable during the trip. Buyers are often unaware of the operational features of the latter. Due to different quality standards, many options do not work, and some parts must be replaced. 

Wider Functionality

Any equipment of electric cars includes a set of semi-automatic functions that make the trip easier. The US build features standard and extended autopilot. The autonomy of movement needs to be improved. However, thanks to these technologies, the car is capable of:
● Parking independently, reacting to neighboring cars.● Driving without the driver’s participation along a section of the motorway.● Maintaining the selected speed.● Braking in front of crosswalks and at red lights.● Recognizing road signs.● Moving to a safer lane (after pressing the turn signal).
Unfortunately, the functionality of the autopilot in the European configuration is severely limited due to local legislation. Without the driver's participation, changing lanes or exiting the highway is impossible.
The Full Self-Driving package, which is in beta testing and is available under a paid subscription for the American version, deserves special attention. It additionally includes a unique option to call an electric car from a parking lot or garage within a range of 50 m. This technology appeared in the spring of 2023 in the European assembly but not for general use. It is currently in beta testing on 2 S Model vehicles.

Navigation System Features

Both modifications are equipped with a powerful graphics card that ensures the regular operation of the infotainment system. Buying an electric car from the USA is worth considering its peculiarity regarding route planning. The onboard computer receives the information from the Internet, connecting without problems via the EDGE wireless connection (add-on for 2G and 2.5G). American frequencies do not work in Europe, but the 3G standard is available. As a result, it will not be possible to download European maps and get directions. The solution is simple — buy the appropriate modem and select the proper region.

Charging Differences

S Model of European assembly is designed for a three-phase electrical network with a voltage of 220/240 V and a frequency of 50 Hz. In the USA, such wiring parameters are set for large enterprises only. Residential users can access a single-phase system with 110/127 V parameters at 60 Hz. Electric cars are tuned under these figures.
Due to different wiring standards, charging ports also differ. The model from the USA is equipped with a proprietary Type Tesla connector with a unique shape for 3 connectors. European cars have a universal Mennekes type with 5 connectors. 

Thanks to more connectors, the electric car charges faster. Owners of vehicles imported from the United States will need adapters as they cannot use original chargers. 

What About Optics?

In this matter, there are differences in the standards for the production of cars in the US and the EU. They are associated with the following nuances:
1. Main lighting. According to European standards, the main headlights provide wide illumination of the road: the beam of light must cover the path ahead, part of the roadside, and traffic signs. This rule was created for the safety and comfort of drivers, especially when driving at night. In a Tesla S from the USA, the headlights shine like spotlights. Therefore, everything that is outside the motorway remains in the shade.

2. Rear-view mirrors are located on the driver's doors. They are too flat in American electric cars. The advantage of this form is the absence of distance distortion to the object, but the radius of visibility decreases. Due to the increased blind zone, it is often impossible to see neighboring cars moving in the same direction.
3. Rear lights. The turn signals and the brake light are combined for cars from America and shine in red. By European standards, turn indicators must be orange. The stops remain red and glow while the brake system works.
To execute documents for a car from the USA, you must replace the specified parts by EU standards.
Ultimately, the differences between the two EV builds are in the details. It is believed that the equipment of a car from America is richer. If comfort and speed are essential, you should pay attention to it. Many electric car options are unavailable in Europe, and some elements need replacing. S Model of the European assembly was immediately produced considering accepted norms, so nothing needs to be redone. But the final choice depends on the preferences of the future owner.