The Tesla Model S was the first (relatively) mass-produced vehicle to prove that driving electric vehicles is not only fun, but that it’s also possible for eco-friendly vehicles to be viable for everyday use.
Depending on the variant you choose and obviously how it’s driven, the Model S can travel between 390 and 520 miles on just one charge. As we all know, Tesla now sells more practical and affordable models (the hugely popular Model 3); however, to date, the Model S remains the flagship of the Silicon Valley giant.
Later this year, Tesla is adding even more performance to the now iconic Model S. The two top-spec models will be called Plaid and Plaid+, (This name derives from the famous spaceship chase in Mel Brook’s 1987 film Spaceballs, a favourite of Elon Musk’s and one previously referenced on Tesla products. In 2016, the Model S got a ‘ludicrous mode’ referencing a ‘bad guy’ in the well-known title orders the captain to accelerate at an inordinate speed) they boast 1020 horsepower from three on board electric motors, and are capable of 0-60 mph in less than 2 seconds. This would make the Plaid+ the fastest accelerating production car in history!
The Plaid+ can reach up to 520 miles from one single charge and reach speeds of 200mph. Pretty impressive stuff……
In the UK, prices are set to start from £110,000 for the Plaid and £130k for the Plaid+. Pre-orders have already been placed and deliveries are expected to begin later this year.
During the car’s unveiling, Tesla showed a video clip of a Model S Plaid lapping the Laguna Seca race track in 1min 30.3sec – an astonishing 6 second improvement on the prototype it tested there in 2019.
The biggest element of change in the new Model S’s interior is the steering wheel, that’s if you can call it that. Its square, futuristic gaming-type shape imitates something you would most likely see on board an air craft.
You’ll also find plenty of obvious upgrades inside the vehicle, the first being a large 17-inch screen similar to that in the Model 3 and (upcoming) Model Y; it can even be tilted towards the driver or the passenger. In addition, the passengers in the rear have full utilisation of a separate 8-inch system.
Undoubtedly, Tesla will be feeling increased pressure from other luxury brands that are launching (or have already launched) their own, respective Model S ‘rivals’. For example, the Porsche Taycan with its stand-out design, luxury interior and the fact that, after all, it’s a Porsche (!), is a bona fide alternative. Tesla, however, seem confident these refinements to the ‘S’ – the standard bearer in this class – coupled with the increased performance output, will ensure that they remain ahead of the chasing pack……
