What happens at 0%?

0% on the display doesn't mean the battery is completely empty. Tesla keeps a small reserve to protect the battery and keep low-voltage systems running. But you should treat 0% as empty.

Can you drive past 0%?

Sometimes the car will go a short distance beyond 0%, with reduced power. It's not reliable and depends on the car and conditions. Don't plan on it.

When the car stops

The car warns you and slows down before it stops, giving time to pull over. Call Tesla Roadside Assistance on 01628 450 660 or your breakdown service. Teslas should be moved on a flatbed truck. See Running out of charge.

Why leaving it at 0% is bad

A battery left near empty for a long time can drop to a very low state of charge, which can damage it and may stop the low-voltage system working. Charge as soon as you can, even a little.

The low-voltage battery

Teslas also have a low-voltage battery that runs the computers, locks and lights. It's charged from the main battery. If the main battery is empty for long, the low-voltage battery can go flat too, and the car won't wake or unlock. See 12V battery warning.