Tesla has consistently pushed the boundaries of electric vehicle performance, starting with the original Roadster. Even in its early iterations, the Roadster boasted sub-4-second 0-60 mph acceleration, as highlighted by Joseph White of the Wall Street Journal, who enthusiastically noted the thrill of “smoking someone’s doors off” in this groundbreaking EV.
Today, even the most economical Tesla models, the Model 3 and Model Y, rival those initial Roadster acceleration figures. However, when it comes to sheer speed and breathtaking performance, the Tesla Model S Plaid reigns supreme. This flagship model, equipped with a tri-motor setup producing a staggering 1,020 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft of torque, redefines what’s possible in an electric sedan. In this article, we’ll delve into the Model S Plaid’s acceleration and, crucially, its top speed, explore the cost of this high-performance EV, and guide you on finding a Model S Plaid at potentially reduced prices.
Unrivaled Acceleration: Tesla Model S Plaid 0-60 Times and Beyond
To truly grasp the Model S Plaid’s acceleration prowess, consider this: an object in freefall accelerates from 0-60 mph in approximately 2.73 seconds (ignoring air resistance). This benchmark puts even humorous comparisons, like a Toyota Prius achieving 0-60 mph in 2.3 seconds when falling off a cliff, into perspective. In reality, as Jalopnik pointed out in 2017, a falling Prius would take closer to 2.75 seconds to reach 60 mph.
So, how does the Tesla Model S Plaid compare? Tesla claims an astonishing 0-60 mph time of 1.99 seconds for the Plaid, achieved under laboratory conditions, leveraging its immense 1,050 lb-ft of torque. However, this figure often excludes rollout and requires highly controlled testing environments to replicate. Real-world tests, accounting for rollout, consistently place the Model S Plaid’s 0-60 mph time in the 2.28-2.3 second range, as documented by MotorTrend and other publications in 2021.
Alt text: Tesla Model S Plaid undergoing acceleration testing, showcasing its rapid speed.
Beyond 0-60 mph, the Model S Plaid continues to impress. It reaches 100 mph from a standstill in around 8.2 seconds and completes a quarter-mile in approximately 9.2 seconds. Remarkably, quarter-mile times as low as 8.77 seconds at 162.55 mph have been recorded, demonstrating its blistering pace.
Even at a more conservative 2.3 seconds for 0-60 mph, the Plaid’s acceleration is nothing short of phenomenal. It outpaces a falling Prius by 0.45 seconds, the base Model S by 0.8 seconds, and trails the McMurtry Spéirling EV hypercar by a mere 0.9 seconds.
The McMurtry Spéirling, achieving 0-60 mph in a mind-bending 1.4 seconds, is an extreme example of EV performance. However, comparing it to the Model S Plaid highlights Tesla’s engineering achievement. The Spéirling is a purpose-built, single-seat hypercar designed for one thing: speed.
In contrast, the Model S Plaid is a production sedan. It offers supercar-level acceleration for multiple passengers, daily usability, advanced self-driving capabilities, and ample cargo space. This combination of extreme performance and practicality sets the Model S Plaid apart.
Exploring the Tesla Model S Plaid Top Speed
While the Model S Plaid’s acceleration figures are headline-grabbing, its top speed is equally impressive. While many high-performance EVs typically reach top speeds between 150-160 mph, the official Tesla Model S Plaid top speed is an astounding 200 mph.
Interestingly, even the track-focused McMurtry Spéirling is limited to 150 mph for safety reasons. Tesla, too, initially imposed a speed limit on the Model S Plaid, capping it at around 175 mph due to braking performance considerations.
Alt text: Close-up of Tesla Model S Plaid carbon ceramic brakes, essential for unlocking top speed.
To unlock the Model S Plaid’s full 200 mph potential, Tesla offers an optional carbon ceramic brake upgrade. This upgrade, costing approximately $15,000 for the brakes alone or $20,000 for the complete Track Package, is essential for removing the top speed limiter.
Remarkably, real-world tests have even exceeded the official figures. One test, conducted by Sebastian Vittel, reportedly measured a Tesla Model S Plaid top speed of 217 mph after the limiter was removed and with hardware and software upgrades. This velocity rivals that of some of China’s CR400 “Fuxing” bullet trains, models CR400AF-B and CR400BF-B.
You can witness the carbon ceramic brakes in action and the Plaid’s record-breaking track performance in Sebastian Vittel’s video from Circuit de Bresse in France.
Weight, Range, and Charging of the Model S Plaid
Despite its high-performance capabilities, the Model S Plaid maintains a reasonable weight of 4,828 lbs, actually 175 lbs lighter than the previous Model S Performance.
In terms of range, the Model S Plaid’s 100 kWh battery pack provides an EPA-estimated range of 396 miles. This range makes it practical for long road trips and daily commutes. Furthermore, the Model S Plaid boasts Tesla’s fastest Supercharging capabilities, adding up to 200 miles of range in just 15 minutes. Car and Driver’s testing showed charging from 10% to 90% in 38 minutes, with an average charging rate of 125 kW and a peak of 250 kW.
Inside the Luxurious Model S Plaid Interior
While the name “Plaid” might evoke patterns, the Tesla Model S Plaid interior maintains a sleek and minimalist aesthetic. Available in All Black, Black and White, and Cream color schemes, the interior emphasizes luxury and high-quality materials.
Tesla has opted for premium materials throughout the cabin, avoiding имитация carbon fiber plastics. The landscape-oriented infotainment screen and the optional yoke steering wheel (though a traditional steering wheel is now standard) contribute to a panoramic driving experience.
Alt text: Tesla Model S Plaid interior showcasing the minimalist design and yoke steering wheel option.
Seating comfort is a priority, with heated front and rear seats and ventilated front seats. Redesigned front seats offer increased legroom, and rear passengers benefit from added charging ports and storage.
2024 Tesla Model S Plaid Cost: New and Used
The base price of a new 2024 Tesla Model S Plaid is $89,990 (at the time of writing). Adding options like Full Self-Driving ($12,000), premium paint, upgraded wheels, interior choices, and the yoke steering wheel can push the price to around $113,380, excluding the performance-enhancing brake upgrades.
To unlock the full Tesla S Top Speed, the carbon ceramic brakes are necessary, adding $15,000-$20,000 to the price. A fully optioned, maximum-performance Model S Plaid can reach approximately $128,380-$133,380.
For those seeking a more accessible entry point, the used Tesla Model S Plaid market offers considerable savings. Used Model S Plaids (2021-2023) typically range from $80,000 to $115,000, with some listings falling as low as $70,000. Many used models feature low mileage, making them an attractive option.
Top 5 Fastest Production EVs: Where Does the Plaid Rank?
The Tesla Model S Plaid is undeniably fast, but how does it stack up against the competition in the realm of production EVs? When initially launched, it held the top spot, but the landscape has evolved. Here’s a comparison of the top 5 fastest production EVs based on real-world testing:
| Make / Model | Acceleration 0-60 mph | Quarter Mile | Top Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lucid Air Sapphire* | 1.98* | 9.1* | 205* |
| Tesla Model S Plaid | 2.1-2.3 seconds | 9.3-9.4 seconds | 200 |
| Porsche Taycan Turbo S | 2.4 seconds | 10.5 seconds | 162 |
| Tesla Model X Plaid | 2.74-2.8 seconds | 9.83 seconds | 149 |
| Audi RS E-Tron GT | 2.9 seconds | 10.9 seconds | 155 |
*The Lucid Sapphire has impressively matched its manufacturer-claimed numbers in real-world tests. While the Plaid might not always be the absolute quickest, its performance remains consistently exceptional. Tesla has also yet to conduct a fully unrestricted top speed test of the Plaid, leaving room for potential further records. The ongoing rivalry between Tesla and Lucid in EV engineering is certainly one to watch.
Finding Your Used Tesla Model S Plaid
Considering the exhilarating performance of the Tesla Model S Plaid, owning one might be tempting. While insurance premiums may reflect its speed, the thrill could be worth it. Opting for a used Model S Plaid can help mitigate costs, potentially offsetting those insurance expenses or allowing budget for the carbon ceramic brakes.
As mentioned, used Model S Plaids can be found for significantly less than new models. If you’re looking to experience the tesla s top speed and acceleration without the new car price tag, the used market is an excellent avenue.
Start your search for a pre-owned Model S Plaid right here on our site! We maintain a consistent inventory of used Model S Plaids in various colors and configurations, including popular options like Solid Black and Pearl White Multi-Coat, and features like Full Self-Driving. Utilize our filters to pinpoint your ideal Plaid, remembering that 21” Arachnid wheels are necessary for carbon ceramic brake compatibility and unlocking the ultimate tesla s top speed.
Ready to experience the fastest Tesla? Explore our current listings of used Tesla Model S Plaids for sale today and take the first step towards owning an electrifying piece of automotive engineering.
