Prepare for an even faster Tesla Model S, tweets Elon Musk

By Miles Branman November 6, 2016

Tesla Model S P100d — Tesla Model S P100D Image used with permission by copyright holder

What’s even loonier than ludicrous? That’s what we’re waiting to find out as Elon Musk has hinted that an update to the Tesla Model S’s Ludicrous Mode will turn the EV into an even faster flagship.

Autocar points to a recent tweet from the billionaire inventor that sparks speculation about the Model S’ new acceleration potential:

“There will be a P100D Ludicrous Easter egg soon that uncorks the full performance.”

The hint is light on details, but considering the latest Ludicrous Mode update on the Model S P100D allowed the car to accelerate to 60 mph in 2.5 seconds, we can only imagine what’s on the way. Currently, the Model S P100D sits as the third fastest (accelerating) production car on earth. The Model S falls just behind two hypercars: Ferrari’s LaFerrari, and Porsche’s 918 Spyder. Perhaps Tesla is going for the record this time.

Besides the untold performance boost, the Model S gets a couple new options, including a panoramic glass sunroof that’s at a “five star-plus” safety rating for rollover. Musk said the new roof was “very hard to develop, but it makes the interior feel amazing.”

Speaking of glass, Tesla also announced it’s getting into the glass development game, sharing technology between Solar City’s new roof panels and the next generation of Tesla vehicles. The first fruits of this new venture will be experienced in Tesla’s upcoming Model 3 compact EV, due mid-2017 (though delays are expected).

As its stands, the Model S lineup is bigger than ever, with 60, 60D, 75, 75D, 90D, and P100D tiers of charge and performance, but a large price gap exists between the 90D and P100D. If history can be counted on, Tesla will likely introduce a model between the 90D and P100D shortly.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Miles Branman doesn't need sustenance; he needs cars. While the gearhead gene wasn't strong in his own family, Miles…

Cars

Tesla Model Y vs. Nissan Ariya: Can Tesla take out Nissan’s electric crossover?

Front three quarter view of the 2023 Nissan Ariya.

Nissan has been a little slow to the punch when it comes to electrification (besides the Leaf, of course). But now, it’s finally starting to electrify its lineup with the new Nissan Ariya. The Ariya is a crossover similar in size to the likes of the Ford Mustang Mach-E, the Kia EV6, and, of course, the Tesla Model Y.

If you’re in the market for a new electric car, you might be wondering whether you should go for the now-everywhere Tesla Model Y or stick with the newer Nissan Ariya. Both cars are seemingly more tech-focused, however, while the Ariya builds on Nissan’s decades of experience in the automotive industry, the Model Y takes a still-fresh approach to its car, at least compared to the competition.

Cars

What it means now that Kia and Hyundai have adopted Tesla’s charging standard

A Tesla car chargers on a Tesla Destination charger.

It has finally happened. After the majority of other major automakers announced the transition from the combined charging system (CCS) to the North American Charging Standard (NACS), Hyundai Motor Group (which consists of Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis) remained one of the major holdouts. But that has changed, and the company announced that it would make the shift starting with cars sold in late 2024. Presumably, that means that 2025 model year cars will get the new plugs.

But what does this mean for you if you're a current Kia, Hyundai, or Genesis driver? And what does it mean for those planning on buying a Hyundai Motor Group EV in the near or more distant future? Here's what you need to know.
How long will this transition take?
The transition to NACS simply is not going to be as immediate as Apple's transition from Lightning to USB-C ports. That's to say, there's going to be a multiyear transition period -- and even in five years, some charging stations will likely still sport CCS connectors.

Cars

Tesla Model 3 Highland: release date, range, design update, and more

A Tesla Model 3 electric car.

The Tesla Model 3 has long been one of the best electric cars out there, especially for drivers who want a high-quality car without paying a ton of cash. The Model 3 boasts a great range, along with awesome tech features and minimalistic design, all of which have helped make it a top-selling electric car.

But to date, it hasn’t evolved much. The car has been around for six years now, with thefirst deliveries of the original Model 3 coming in late 2017. But now it’s getting a face-lift. The updated car, code-named Highland, has been announced, and it offers a range of upgrades over the current-generation Tesla Model 3.