While the KBB crew didn't need a flat-bed to finish the trip they demonstrated once again that the electric driving range is all about the 3 Ts, temperature, terrain and technique. Even with a 1,000+ pound 85 kWh battery (that's equivalent to about 2.5 gallons of gasoline) they barely made it from the charging station in Barstow California to Vegas once the mountainous terrain and the mid-30 degree nighttime desert temperatures took their toll. Heading back west required setting the cruise control at 58 mph. 

The Model S is a fantastic piece of engineering, but even with it's maximum battery, it's still probably not the best choice for a road trip. If you can afford $60-100K for a car, you should probably just consider renting something that runs on liquid fuel for trips that take you farther afield.