Tesla’s Model S electric is one fine-driving sedan in regular form, but now there is the option for potentially even more electric driving fun. (Who’da thunk we’d ever say that?) The automaker has introduced the Performance Plus package, essentially a $10,000 handling kit that’s available on both the Model S and Model S Performance with either the 60- or 85-kWh battery packs. Given that we recorded 0.91 g of cornering grip in our full test of a Model S, consider us intrigued by anything that could improve on that sports-car-like figure.
The Performance Plus package is fairly comprehensive, and brings “upgraded” dampers, bushings, and anti-roll bars. It requires buyers to also order the Model S’s optional 21-inch wheels—which come with staggered-width, high-performance Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 tires—adding $3500 to the Performance Plus gear’s $6500 price tag. Considering you can’t discuss electric cars without talking driving range, Tesla claims that the handling goods somehow improve range by 6–12 miles relative to Performance Plus–less Model S sedans with the 21-inch wheels. Ride comfort apparently improves, as well.
- Instrumented Test: 2013 Tesla Model S
- Comparison Test: 2012 Chevrolet Volt vs. 2012 Fisker Karma EcoSport
- First Drive: 2013 Fiat 500E EV
We dig the way Tesla sees the Model S not just as an electric sedan, but an electric sports sedan, and applaud the introduction of Performance Plus. The car already was a capable handler but Tesla saw fit to kick it up a notch. Now that we think about it, the Model S’s 416-hp electric motor is pretty darn snappy as it is, but we wouldn’t object to boosting it for more speed.
No comments:
Post a Comment