Tesla has long been synonymous with groundbreaking acceleration in the automotive world, and the Model S Plaid takes this reputation to an entirely new level. Renowned for its blistering speed, the Tesla Model S Plaid has been rigorously tested and proven to be the quickest production car to reach 60 mph. Motortrend, a respected authority in car testing, put the Model S Plaid through its paces and confirmed its status as an acceleration king. Their findings highlight just how dramatically Tesla has pushed the boundaries of electric vehicle performance, particularly in the crucial 0-60 mph benchmark.
Motortrend’s in-depth testing of the Tesla Model S Plaid revealed astonishing figures that underscore its unparalleled acceleration. While the official listed 0-60 mph time for the Model S Plaid is 2.3 seconds, Motortrend’s actual tests yielded even more impressive results. On a specially prepped track, the Model S Plaid scorched its way to 60 mph in a mere 1.98 seconds. Even on their standard test track, the vehicle achieved a stunning 2.1-second 0-60 mph sprint. This minor variation emphasizes the importance of track conditions, but regardless, the 2.1-second time solidifies the Model S Plaid’s position at the top of the charts for 0-60 mph acceleration in a production vehicle. Motortrend themselves stated, “The next day we took the car to our regular testing facility, where it laid down a 2.1-second 0-60 sprint,” confirming the consistent and exceptional performance of the Model S Plaid.
To put this remarkable achievement into perspective, Motortrend compiled a list of the fastest electric vehicles they have tested from 0-60 mph. The Tesla Model S Plaid comfortably claims the number one spot, demonstrating a clear lead over its competitors. Here’s a glimpse at the top contenders:
- 2021 Tesla Model S Plaid: 0–60 MPH in 2.1 Seconds (Motortrend’s tested time)
- 2020 Porsche Taycan Turbo S: 0–60 MPH in 2.4 Seconds
- 2022 Lucid Air Grand Touring Performance: 0–60 MPH in 2.7 Seconds
- 2022 Audi RS E-Tron GT: 0–60 MPH in 2.9 Seconds
- 2022 Mercedes-AMG EQS 4Matic+ Sedan: 0–60 MPH in 3.0 Seconds
- 2022 GMC Hummer EV Edition 1: 0–60 MPH in 3.0 Seconds
- 2022 Rivian R1T Launch Edition: 0–60 MPH in 3.1 Seconds
- 2023 Kia EV6 GT: 0–60 MPH in 3.2 Seconds
- 2023 BMW iX M60: 0–60 MPH in 3.2 Seconds
- 2022 Rivian R1S Launch Edition: 0–60 MPH in 3.2 Seconds
The breathtaking 0-60 mph performance of the Tesla Model S Plaid is not simply a matter of raw power; it’s a result of sophisticated engineering and seamlessly integrated technology. The Model S Plaid boasts a tri-motor all-wheel-drive system, delivering a staggering 1,020 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft of torque. Motortrend highlighted the crucial role of the advanced traction control system, working in perfect harmony with the potent electric motors to unleash such phenomenal acceleration. This intricate combination of powerful electric motors, all-wheel drive, and intelligent traction management allows the Tesla Model S Plaid to achieve its record-breaking 0-60 mph times, offering drivers an unparalleled experience of electric vehicle performance.
