Ultra-Runner Outlasts a Tesla Model 3

Endurance runners look for new challenges to push their distances. Recently one such runner took on the driving range of a Tesla Model 3.

The Tesla brand set the standard for EV driving range until recently, and it will likely take back that crown in the future. There’s a long history of man vs. horse endurance races, but never a man vs. car race, until now. In a challenge that took more than three days to complete, one man outlasted the Model 3 when it comes to the distance covered during the challenge.

Who is the Man that Outlasted a Car?

Robbie Balenger is an endurance runner that gains his energy and endurance from a plant-based diet. He credits this for allowing him to perform at an incredible level and take on the environmental challenges some of these races present. Balenger is the world record holder for the number of loops around Central Park in Manhattan. He has also competed the 1,200-mile Colorado Crush run which took 63 days to complete. This race in Colorado covers over 300,000 feet of elevation gain through some extremely challenging terrain. Its truly no wonder that Balenger was able to beat a Tesla.

The Challenge Completed

The challenge race is simply a matter of endurance over a long distance. This race began outside of Austin, Texas where the latest Tesla plant is located. The driver of the Tesla Model 3 drive for 65 mph and rode from a full charge until the batteries died. This ride took 242 miles, setting the distance Balenger would need to cover.

Robbie took 76 hours, 54 minutes, and 46 seconds to run the entire race and beat the Tesla by 100 feet, which was all he needed to do. His original goal was to complete the run in 72 hours but running for three straight days of weather that is 90+ degrees changed this plan and required the run to take a bit longer than expected.

We know a bit about Robbie, now, let’s learn more about the car that set the distance for this challenge.

What is the Tesla Model 3?

The Model 3 is a car that arrived in the electric sedan market to offer a more accessible price point for the masses. Until the Model 3 arrived, the only car from this brand was the Model S. A couple of years after it first arrived, the Model 3 received updates in 2021 to give it refreshed styling, a unique small build, and a high-tech interior. You won’t find many changes for the 2022 version, but that doesn’t stop this from being an incredible EV to drive.

This Car is a Thrill on the Road

The Tesla brand earns its reputation for building thrilling cars and this small sedan is no exception to this at all. Even the base model offers plenty of torque and power, you’ll have the power you want when heading out on the road. The chassis is well-tuned to offer an excellent driving experience with the handling desired and impressive steering. Of course, the driver of the Model 3 in the racing challenge had to stick to a specified average speed to allow an even drive for this car.

Experience the Interior of this EV

The cabin area of the Tesla Model 3 brings you the minimalistic styling you expect from this luxury brand. Instead of showing off with high-class items, this car offers a sophisticated simplicity to the build. You’ll find tow interior options for this car with the option of either an All Black look or the Black and White build. You’ll see a large 15-inch touchscreen that controls nearly everything in the car. Enjoy the comfort and quality of the materials offered on the seats in this impressive electric car.

The Exterior Reflects the Interior

The Model 3 has sleek body lines and handsome wheels to give you a compact electric sedan that brings you the look you want to enjoy. The flat nose gives the look of continuous styling with the absence of a traditional grille. This is a unique look that makes this car instantly recognizable. The size of this car is perfect in the compact luxury class.

Features Found in the Model 3

The Tesla Model 3 delivers excellent features in the base Standard Range Plus trim. These items include:

• Heated, power-adjustable front seats
• 4 USB-C ports
• Two wireless charging pads
• Power trunk lid
• Tinted panoramic glass roof
• Simulated vegan leather upholstery
• 15-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Autopilot semi-autonomous driving system
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Pedestrian detection
  • Blind-spot monitoring
  • Surround-view parking camera

Move to the Long Range model and enjoy:

• Heated rear seats
• 14-speaker premium audio system

The Performance model gives you:

• Lowered suspension
• Performance brakes
• Aluminum pedals
• Carbon fiber rear spoiler
• 20-inch wheels

How much Power Does the Model 3 Offer?

If you’re looking for the power and driving range of the Tesla Model 3, you’ll find a few different levels to enjoy. The Standard Range Plus model has a 54-kWh battery pack with a single motor to deliver 340 horsepower, 330 lb-ft of torque, and a driving range of 272 miles. (This is the model used for the challenge, and it only reached 242 miles)

The Long Rage version of the Model 3 brings you a 75-kWh battery pack and two electric motors. Choose this model and you’ve got 447 horsepower and 376 lb-ft of torque. The driving range of this version is 358 miles. Move to the Performance trim and you’ve got the same setup as the Long Range version, but the power is tuned to 580 horsepower, 481 lb-ft of torque, and 315 miles of driving range.

Will You Drive the Car that Set the Distance?

If you’ve been thinking about driving an electric vehicle, the Model 3 is an excellent choice. This car delivers impressive comfort and quality to ensure you have the package of features and styling you want when you head out on the road. This could be the right EV to handle your daily commute. It certainly caused Robbie to need to run for three days before catching up with it, which means you’ll have plenty of driving distance.