It’s now 163 mph faster than the previous 163, but Tesla promises 200 mph.
The Model S Plaid was introduced by Tesla last year. It boasted a top speed of 200 miles per hour (322 km/h). The EV’s electronically controlled speed is 163 mph (262 km/h). People who are driven by speed will appreciate the new software update that lowers the limiter to 175 MPH (282 Km/h). While it isn’t the supercar-matching velocity promised, it’s still a significant improvement.
Several videos have been released showing a Model S Plaid equipped with the most recent OTA update. It also includes a Track Mode. The car can still reach 175 mph without the Track Mode selected. Tesla states that Track Mode disables some driver assistance systems. It should only be used on tracks to get “unmatched performance at many venues.”
What is Track Mode? The release notes state that Track Mode boosts powertrain performance by causing the heat pump to cool more aggressively than usual. The three electric motors have been upgraded to improve torque vectoring, allowing for better cornering at higher speeds. Regenerative braking can also be emphasized to recover extra energy.
Track Mode activates the ability to make suspension adjustments. Track Mode automatically adjusts the adaptive dampers to reduce body roll and improve handling. A dedicated screen appears upon activation. It displays a G-meter and lap timer as well as thermal monitors, vehicle telemetry, and turns on the dashcam.
Tesla previously stated that the Model S Plaid requires better brakes in order to break the 200-mph limit. The attached footage shows that the car comes to a halt at 175 mph using the standard brakes. Officially, a $20,000 carbon ceramic set was announced for a release in mid-2022.
Another software update may unlock the 200-mph speed limit. Tesla stated last year that only cars with 21-inch Arachnid wheels (or larger) will be capable of going that fast. This makes sense, since the standard 19 inch set may not have enough space to accommodate the larger rotors.
The Model S Plaid can still reach 175 mph faster than the 162-mph Porsche Taycan Turbo S or the 168-mph Lucid Air. The Rimac Nevera, a 258-mph EV for $2.4 million, is a great choice if money is not an issue.
The final point is that the Plaid can be purchased for almost $155,000 if you include the larger wheels and carbon-ceramic brakes.