The New York Times article has directly engaged one of the fundamental goals stated by Elon Musk, that the Model S is a viable replacement for the gasoline automobile; the car, unfortunately, fell short of one of its original intended goals.  

One can argue indefinitely if the NYT reporter deviated from the planned course, or if the vehicle was fully charged; however, these are the variabilities of life, and the real world differs substantial from the strict test environment found in the research laboratory.  

To argue that the car is a really a short distance daily driver, and not a substitute for a gasoline vehicle, again, is counterintuitive to the marketing efforts of Tesla-there is a reason why Tesla is making a large investment in quick charge facilities on the Interstate system in California and in New York and in touting the long range battery pack.  

Tesla, itself, did drive a Model S across the United States at the close of 2012 to promote its effectiveness as a long-distance cruiser.  But, once again, if the reader was careful, one would note that the distance traveled per day averaged around 350 miles.  

Unfortunately, real world tests that highlight the shortcomings of battery chemistry technology will relegate the electric vehicle to the status of an affluent family's plaything and not a practical substitute for the gasoline powered automobile.  With the question of adoption being raised, and the consequence of a limited market base, the longer term viability of car makers such as Tesla remain doubtful.