Skip to main content
  1. Home
  2. Cars
  3. News

Tesla Model S gets a subtle makeover from tuner Novitec

Stephen Edelstein
By

Novitec is known for tuning high-end vehicles from the likes of Lamborghini and Maserati, but lately the company has turned its attention to greener rides. The German firm launched a line of upgrades for the Tesla Model X earlier this year, and now it’s moving on to that SUV’s sedan counterpart.

As with the Model X, Novitec’s tuning package for the Tesla Model S primarily focuses on aesthetic changes, rather than performance upgrades (not that the Model S needs help in that area). Those subtle visual changes give the Model S a more aggressive look without going overboard, as many tuners do.

Recommended Videos

Available for Tesla Model S electric cars from 2016 or later, the list of modifications includes front and rear lip spoilers, new rocker panels, a rear diffuser, and Novitec’s own 21-inch wheels. Novitec claims the spoilers, diffuser, and rocker panels have actual aerodynamic benefits. The front spoiler in particular reduces axle lift at high speeds, Novitec says, helping to improve stability.

Related

While there are no apparent changes to the powertrain, Novitec does offer carbon-ceramic brakes in place of the stock Tesla units. In addition to increasing stopping power and reducing fade, Novitec claims the brakes weigh less than the stock components. Since brakes constitute unsprung weight, that should have an outsize positive impact on handling, Novitec notes.

Novitec also offers two suspension options for the Model S. For cars not equipped with air suspension, Novitec has a coilover setup that lowers ride height by 40 millimeters (1.5 inches) and includes three damper settings: Normal, Comfort, and Sport. Novitec also offers its own control module for cars equipped with air suspension, which lowers ride height by about 25 mm (0.9 inch). This is probably more about creating an aggressive, ground-hugging look than any performance benefit.

Novitec would not discuss pricing or U.S. availability, but given the popularity of the Model S, the company probably won’t have trouble finding customers. Novitec isn’t the first company to tune Teslas, and it certainly won’t be the last. Tesla may be changing a lot of perceptions about what cars can be, but that doesn’t mean the desire of owners to modify, customize, and personalize them will go away.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics
Stephen Edelstein
Stephen Edelstein
Contributing Editor
Stephen is a freelance automotive journalist covering all things cars. He likes anything with four wheels, from classic cars…
Tesla Model 3 vs. Hyundai Ioniq 6: Which electric sedan is best?
Front three quarter view of the 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 6.

There are finally some more electric sedan options. For years, the Tesla Model 3 was really the only good electric sedan that comes at a reasonable price -- until, Hyundai recently launched the Ioniq 6. The Ioniq 6 certainly takes some cues from the larger Ioniq 5, but is smaller and sleeker, with a design seemingly inspired by the Porsche 911.

But the Tesla Model 3 is still clearly an excellent option for those looking for an electric car, and who don't want a larger crossover. Which is better? Here's a look.
Design
The exterior design of the Tesla Model 3 and Hyundai Ioniq 6 is quite different. If you've seen a Tesla car before, then you'll immediately recognize the Model 3 -- it looks largely like a slightly different version of every other Tesla (except the Cybertruck).

Read more
Tesla launches more affordable Model S and Model X, but there’s a catch
A 2021 Tesla Model S.

Tesla has launched more affordable versions of its Model S sedan and Model X SUV in the U.S. and Canada, though they come with shorter driving ranges. Deliveries of the new vehicles will begin next month.

The new Model S "standard range" vehicles cost $78,490 and offer a range of up to 320 miles (515 kilometers), which is considerably shorter than the pricier regular dual-motor and tri-motor Plaid versions that feature a range of 405 miles and 396 miles, respectively, Reuters reported.

Read more
The Ford Mustang Mach-E isn’t just getting cheaper, it’s getting better
A red 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E in a field.

Ford and Tesla have both made headlines over the past few months for engaging in a relatively aggressive pricing battle. The Mach-E and the Tesla Model Y are among the most popular electric cars out there, and they've both gotten a fair bit cheaper in the last few months. The model Mach-E now sells for $42,995, and the base model Model Y goes for $47,490 -- both before incentives.

I've reviewed a number of different Mach-E models over the past few years, and they're always one of my favorite cars to drive. But after driving the Mustang Mach-E California Route 1 Edition for a week, it was apparent that the Mach-E isn't just getting cheaper -- it's also getting better.

Read more