Skip to main content

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

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

Miles Branman
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…
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.

Read more
The BMW i4 is more luxurious than the Tesla Model S, and costs way less
2022 BMW i4 M50

The Tesla Model S is the original cool electric car. It did away with the concept that EVs had to be nerdy, small, low-range cars — and instead offered a sleek and stylish design, as well as a modern interior. But over the years, a ton of competition has popped up, and these days, the Model S has to go up against some seriously great cars. 

Like, for example, the BMW i4.

Read more
Tesla Model 3 vs. Tesla Model Y: Bigger or cheaper?
A Tesla 3 sits parked beside an urban waterfront.

Tesla has a bit of a head start on the competition. Say what you will about panel gaps and its CEO, there's no denying that Tesla made the electric car cool -- and all in the pursuit of making them affordable enough to mass produce. And, while its lowest-priced cars aren't cheap, Tesla largely achieved that goal. The Tesla Model 3 and Model Y are its most affordable cars right now, and they offer that unmistakable Tesla design, with good battery and charging tech, plus a focus on a high-tech infotainment system.

But which of the two cars is actually better? Or, if neither is better, which is right for your needs? We put the two head-to-head.
Design
Tesla uses a relatively uniform design language across its lineup, and the result is that the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y look very similar. In fact, the Model Y looks exactly like what it is: a larger version of the Model 3.

Read more