Tesla's Model S and Model X Performance Get Improved 0-60 MPH Acceleration Times

author: Manish Kharinta   

In terms of sportiness, Tesla's electric Model S and Model X SUV are both impressive offerings when compared to conventional gas-powered sedans and SUVs. However, Tesla updated the Performance variants of two of its oldest running nameplates and made them even more powerful. 

The upgraded Model S now only takes 2.3 seconds to hit the 60 MPH mark from a standstill and the new Model X Performance makes the same sprint in just 2.6 seconds.

As the fastest car in Tesla's lineup, the Model S sedan has been improving its acceleration times via constant over the air updates. 

Up until recently, Tesla's Raven Model S Performance, which includes a more powerful permanent magnet synchronous reluctance motor upfront instead of an induction motor, held the title for the fastest Tesla with a 0 to 60 MPH time of 2.4 seconds. 

Tesla outshining conventional sports and hypercars becomes even more impressive with the recently updated Model S and X SUV. 

After Tesla' latest software update, the Model S Performance shares the same acceleration time as a Lamborghini Huracan Performante. Whereas the Model X Performance with its 0-60 MPH acceleration time of 2.6 seconds is similar to that of a V12 Lamborghini Aventador SV,  a supercar costing over $500,000. 

Tesla's New "Cheetah Stance"

In addition, Tesla's latest over-the-air software update now offers what Tesla calls the "Cheetah Stance" in Launch Mode. The new feature is exclusive to Model S and X.

Cheetah Stance regulates the air suspension in the two EVs to help the cars get off the line more effectively. The feature is a result of the latest software update, as the mechanicals of the two cars remain unchanged. Both Tesla Model S and X Performance are still powered by the same 100 kWh battery pack.

Plaid Mode

As we reported last year, Tesla Chief Executive Elon Musk confirmed via Twitter that "Plaid" versions of these cars will receive larger battery packs at some point. 

Tesla's more powerful Plaid Mode, a reference taken from the 1987 parody movie Spaceballs, will use three electric motors rather than the dual motor setup currently in vehicles equipped with Ludicrous Mode. In addition, these cars will get a bigger battery pack better equipped to handle the abuse on the track and still have enough juice left over for the drive back home. 

We expect Tesla will probably bump up the battery pack capacity by 20 kWh for the track-focused Plaid version of Tesla Model S. Spy shots of Plaid Mode Model S and X vehicles have already surfaced online. 

In September 2019, Musk tweeted that Plaid Mode will be available on the Model S, X and, later, in the Roadster. Tesla expected to put the Plaid Model S in production later this year, but now that seems highly unlikely due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Manish Kharinta

Manish Kharinta is a automotive writer based in the Los Angeles area. He has worked for automotive industry websites TheSmokingClutch.com, CarDekho.com and CarBikeindia.com. His experience ranges from covering auto shows, to car reviews and breaking automotive news. Manish aims to bring forth his unique perspective on automotive design and technological innovations in the automotive industry.