According to the LA Times, there are 5 features that put the Tesla Model S on the cutting edge of automotive technology.
In no particular order, those 5 features are:

Tesla Model X Concept Image - Surely the Model X Will Make Use of the Model S' Top 5 Features Too
Reconfigurable clusters
Rather than traditional bezels, gauges and dials, the Model S has a fully reconfigurable instrument cluster, or dashboard screen.
Large center infotainment touchscreens
Tesla's use of a large center infotainment touchscreen has raised the bar for size and functionality of center screens.
Embedded telematics
Inclusion in the Model S of an embedded connection link -- as opposed to connectivity via smartphone tethering -- demonstrates that embedded connectivity is the way drivers will communicate with the digital world outside their car.
Assisted driver/autopilot
While the Model S trails the German manufacturers in advanced driver assistance systems for now, Johnson said he expects the Palo Alto automaker to catch up rapidly. He predicted that Tesla will offer some form of autopilot for limited situations in the next three to five years.
Cloud-based software
It is being used by Tesla not only to update software, but in the future will harvest critical "Big Data" on vehicle performance.
For more on the importance of these 5 features, as well as in-depth explanation as to why some of the Model S features made this list, check out the source link below.
Source: LA Times
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