Traditionally, the automotive world has relied on massive engine displacements and forced induction to set high-speed records, pushing the limits of power and performance. However, the industry is shifting with the rise of electric-driven performance EVs. These modern marvels are now achieving power outputs comparable to some of the most powerful supercars and hypercars, demonstrating that electric technology is both competitive and sustainable. It's an approach that Tesla has dominated since the first debut of its Plaid series, taking the standard Model S and supplying it with over 1,020 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft of torque. The speed demons at Drag Times have taken things to a whole new level after announcing a new World Record set by a modified 2021 Tesla Model S Plaid.
Uploaded to Drag Time's X profile, the short, in-cabin video of the record-setting EV gives us a glimpse into what it takes to push the Plaid to its limits. And while most combustion engines require mechanical upgrades and software tuning to produce more horsepower, simply shedding excess weight is all you need when it comes to EVs. A quick look at the stripped-out interior leaves us to believe that only essential options and features were kept to ensure that every unneeded ounce of weight was removed.
With eyes set on breaking the world record 1/4-mile drag time, the lightweight Tesla Model S Plaid recorded some seriously impressive figures while crossing the finish line at 8.59s/162.33mph. It's record-breaking run captured a 1.4s 60ft, 1.88s 0-60mph, 3.66s 60-130mph, 5.54s 0-130mph, 1/8-mile at 5.57s/130.46mph, 3.71s 100-150mph, and 7.20s/149.32mph 1,000ft. Now, with a newly crowned Tesla Model S Plaid World Record holder, the challenge is on to see who will harness more power from Tesla's fastest EV. View all Tesla EV models for sale on duPont REGISTRY by clicking the link below.
New Record! 8.56 @ 162 MPH by Tesla Plaid Racing in a #tesla #models #plaid - Is this what the new #roadster will run, @elonmusk @Tesla pic.twitter.com/U7Qb4HDIDF
— DragTimes (@DragTimes) July 29, 2024
Source: @DragTimes X
