Tesla Model S Plaid, a supercar disguised as a sedan

Let’s start with the numbers, because in this case they are interesting: 1,020 horsepower and 1,420 Nm of torque. And no we are not talking about a supercar, but the most powerful sedan in the world, the electric Tesla Model S Plaid.

Technical data sheet

Great power, derived from three engines. Two, one for each wheel, on the rear axle also with the Torque Vectoring function for controlling the torque between them, while the third is intended for the front axle. On paper, therefore, it is an all-wheel drive car, but it pushes mainly on the rear wheels. Synchronous and permanent magnet motor generators, with carbon-coated rotors to reduce weathering, are powered by a battery pack with a total capacity of 100 kWh (95 efficiency) that recharges up to 25 kW of direct current power . Power supply that allows the use of 5 km per kilowatt and about 500 km of autonomy.

Minor flaws and strong points

The impressive technical sheet is balanced by several details that leave you a little worried, especially since we are talking about a car worth more than 100 thousand euros. of a small manufacturer, and yet experience to be found in assembly service. But where the Tesla Model S Plaid excels is in life. The finish is excellent, but its strong point is the multimedia sector. The 17-inch landscape display has a resolution of 2200×1300. The number of functions is decidedly differentiated (you can even watch series on Netflix) and, although there are many icons, the experience is similar to that of a smartphone. But it would be better to have shortcuts and physical buttons, because since all functions pass through the display, there is a great risk of distraction while driving.

exhibition

Obviously, another strong point is the performance that comes from the amazing motor skills. It did 0-100 km/h in 2.41 seconds, better than many supercars of similar power. Performance almost makes no sense because, let’s remember, we’re talking about a sedan, not a car designed to eat the edges of a track. However, the electronics always intervene to control this excitement, with three driving modes of Comfort, Sport and Plaid, and the last ones we do not recommend for use in the city because the power immediately released to the rear wheels is too violent. Where we could do better is in the braking system. The normal steel frame that the test car was equipped with was not stable and after several hard brakes it overheated. Therefore, our advice is to choose optional carbon ceramics.

It’s a shame about the brakes because the development in terms of setup is quite positive. The car is basically neutral, with little movement of the rear axle on release, only emphasized if you brake in a corner, deliberately leaning back to facilitate entry. The steering is precise and direct and the level of stability is adequate for the driving conditions.

Curious, why is it called Plaid

All stem from Elon Musk’s love for science fiction films, but one in particular: Space Ball, by Mel Brooks, from 1987, known in Italy as Spaceballs. It was a parody of Star Wars, and in one scene, during the chase between the good guys and the bad guys in space at the speed of hyperspace, the main characters enter an area with the color of a plaid, a Scottish wool blanket.

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