Skip to main content

Tesla brings track mode to Model 3 Performance

cdorobek/Flickr

Being behind the wheel of a Tesla can make you feel like you’re ready to race. It’s probably for the best to not pursue those urges while you’re on public streets, but the electric car company introduced a new feature that will let you live out your high-speed ambitions. The new Track Mode is designed to get the most out of your car when you’re on roads designed for speed and precision.

According to Tesla, Track Mode is designed specifically to be used while driving on closed autocross circuit courses and race tracks. When you find yourself in that situation, switch on the mode and your Tesla will tap into the motor power and torque available to it on demand because of its electric powertrains to make cornering on the track feel as easy and as smooth as standard, forward acceleration.

Recommended Videos

How Track Mode Works

— Tesla (@Tesla) November 8, 2018

Here’s how the whole thing works: Track Mode determines where torque goes in order to give you better control over the vehicle. Torque applied to the rear wheels allows the car to rotate rather than turn — think of a car drifting and you’ll get the idea. When torque is applied to the front wheels, it reduces the car’s ability to turn. Track Mode closely manages where torque is exerted to give drivers more control when taking tight corners and driving in situations that require technical precision.

There’s a system on the Tesla that would normally counteract any sort of change of balance in the car. It’s called stability control. In most driving situations, stability control is important to ensure the safety of the drivers and passengers. It applies brakes to the tires in a way that prevents the car from spinning out of control. Typically, it’s meant to be responsive and predictive of any sort of emergency situation. But when you’re on a track, you aren’t driving the same way you would on the road, and some maneuvers that would otherwise be unsafe are necessary.

While in Track Mode, stability control is replaced by Vehicle Dynamics Controller, which is software designed specifically for Tesla vehicles that maintains the necessary stability of the vehicle while also allowing the driver to continue performing dynamic maneuvers and turns on the track without interference.

Tesla’s Track Mode is available on the Tesla Model 3 Performance. It’s available to cars via an over-the-air update.

AJ Dellinger
AJ Dellinger is a freelance reporter from Madison, Wisconsin with an affinity for all things tech. He has been published by…
Watch 902 Teslas perform a funky light show in Finland
watch 902 teslas perform a funky light show in finland tesla

Yes, Tesla light shows are a thing, and there's a video to prove it.

Organized by the Tesla Club Finland and taking place at a racetrack in Espoo, west of Helsinki, the show used 902 Teslas to entertain thousands of spectators with a dazzling display of light and color set to various music tracks.

Read more
Tesla has released a cheaper Model 3 — and I really hope it comes to the U.S.
Tesla Model 3 Highland Front

The Tesla Model 3 is already one of the most popular electric vehicles, thanks to its large selection of great EV features and a reasonably low price compared to other electric cars. But it seems like Tesla is working on making the car even cheaper and has released a more affordable Model 3 with a downgraded interior in Mexico.

Don’t get me wrong. I’m glad that the Model 3 is available at a lower price in Mexico (it cuts the price of the current base Model 3 by around $4,000). But I really hope the vehicle makes it to the U.S.
What's different?
There are a few things that set the cheaper Model 3 variant apart from the current base Model 3 in the U,S. Most of these have to do with a regression of features compared to the Model 3 Highland update that was released last year. For example, the new passenger display in the back seat has been removed, and the accent lighting in the car is white only. Additionally, the seat coverings are a cheaper fabric instead of the faux leather available in the current Model 3. And there are no options for heated seats or a heated steering wheel.

Read more
Which Model Y trim should you buy? Model Y trims compared
which model y trim should you buy trims compared range tablet lhd v2 2

The Tesla Model Y has been the most popular electric car for a few years now, and it makes sense. The Model Y is reasonably priced for an EV while offering a good range and an excellent software experience. It's also larger than the Model 3 sedan -- and plenty of people need that extra room.

But there are a few Model Y trims to choose from, and the trim you should buy depends on a few different factors. So, we thought we’d put together a guide that explains the different Model Y trims, the pros and cons of each, and who should buy which trim.

Read more