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Alternative Models
The Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1) alongside these alternatives:
Performance
The Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1) produces a maximum power of 760 kW (1033 hp / 1019 bhp) and a total torque of 1420 Nm (1048 lb-ft). It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in 2.1 seconds and reaches a top speed of 322 km/h (200 mph).
Battery, Range, and Charging
The battery has a gross capacity of 100.0 kWh and a net usable capacity of 96.0 kWh, with a 4.0 kWh buffer (4.0%) for battery protection. With a nominal voltage of 407 volts, the system is classified as a 400-volt battery system.
The lithium-ion battery uses NCA technology.
According to the WLTP (Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure) standard, the vehicle's range is 600 km (373 miles), with an energy consumption rate of 16.0 kWh/100 km (3.9 mi/kWh).
For more details about the range, see real-world data and range listings on this model’s range and consumption page.
The vehicle supports fast DC charging with a maximum power of 250 kW. A 0–100% charge takes approximately 81 minutes. A typical 10–80% session takes about 31 minutes at an average power of 129 kW.
With five minutes of overhead per stop, the optimal charging window is 7–47%. Effective average power, including overhead, is 141 kW over a session lasting about 16 minutes and 23 seconds.
In a 1000 km challenge at a constant speed of 120 km/h (75 mph) with an assumed consumption rate of 21 kWh/100 km, the trip would take about 9 hours and 9 minutes, needing three charging stops from 7% to 47%, totaling 49 minutes of charging time.
Onboard Charger
The standard onboard charger supports AC charging at up to 11 kW. A full 0–100% charge takes about 8 hours and 43 minutes with a suitable home charging setup.
Charge Port
The charge port is at the left rear corner, which suits charging stalls that require backing in.
Connector types vary by market. This model uses NACS in North America and CCS Combo 2 in Europe. See the full specifications for market-specific details.
Drivetrain
The Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1) has an all-wheel drive system supported by three motors. One on front axle, and two on rear axle.
The motors used are Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors.
Suspension
The Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1) features a double wishbone front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, both with electronically controlled dampers and air springs.
The suspension is fully adaptive on the front and rear axle, so height and damping can be adjusted manually and automatically.
The minimum ground clearance is 110 mm, and the maximum is 198 mm.
Steering
Progressive steering is standard on the Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1). It adjusts the steering ratio according to vehicle speed.
Brakes
The Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1) is equipped with cast-iron disc brakes on both the front and rear.
The front discs measure 380 mm, while the rear discs are 355 mm.
Regenerative Braking
Regenerative braking in this model is primarily available through one-pedal driving. Automatic regen and coasting are not available on this model.
This model offers three stopping modes for one-pedal driving:- Hold mode brings the vehicle to a complete stop using friction brakes
- Roll mode allows the vehicle to roll until it stops naturally
- Creep mode moves the car forward at low speed
Drivers can also adjust the regenerative braking strength when lifting off the accelerator, choosing between two levels.
The maximum regenerative braking power is 90 kW.
Exterior
The Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1), with dimensions of 5021 mm in length, 1987 mm in width, and 1431 mm in height, falls into the F-segment, also known as luxury cars.
The Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1) is available in 5 paint colors, including both solid and metallic options.
The Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1) offers multiple wheel options in different sizes. The available tire and wheel combinations include:
- 255/45 tires on 19" rims front and 285/40 tires on 19" rims rear
- 265/35 tires on 21" rims front and 295/30 tires on 21" rims rear
Narrower wheels reduce energy consumption and can increase range, while wider wheels can improve traction and handling.
The car has four regular doors and a liftgate, which makes the trunk much more usable compared to a traditional bootlid, especially for a sedan.
The power liftgate includes hands-free opening by foot gesture as standard.
There is only one roof option for this model.
A large panoramic glass roof extending from front to rear is standard. Tinted glass reduces solar heat gain.
The windows behind the B-pillar are tinted for privacy and to reduce glare and solar heat gain.
Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1)
Interior
The Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1) boasts a driver-centric interior, enhancing the cockpit feel with high-quality materials in several areas instead of hard plastic. It also includes a traditional center console that separates the driver and passenger with integrated storage.
You can choose between several interior designs.
Seats
The Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1) accommodates five passengers with two front seats and a three-seat bench in the rear.
First Row Seats
The Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1) offers a single type of front seat.
The standard seat offers:
- Fore-and-aft adjustment (electrically adjustable)
- Recline adjustment (electrically adjustable)
- Height adjustment (electrically adjustable)
- Seat cushion angle adjustment (electrically adjustable)
- Height adjustable headrest
- Heating
- Memory
- Ventilation
Available in:
- Black leatherette upholstery
- Black/White leatherette upholstery
- Black/White leatherette upholstery
Second-Row Seats
The second row features a standard three-seat bench with a 60:40 split, allowing each section to fold separately to increase cargo space.
Additional second-row features include:
Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1)
Interior Storage
The Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1) has the following interior storage:
- Cupholders: Two cupholders are located in the front center console, with an additional two in the rear armrest.
Interior Lighting
The Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1) offers several interior lighting options.
- White Ambient Lighting: Extends across the dashboard, door panels, and footwell.
Climate System
There is one climate system available:
- 3-zone climate system: Supports different temperatures in three zones for the driver, passenger, and backseat.
A standard heat pump reduces heating energy use in cold weather.
Comfort Features
The Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1) includes the following comfort features:
- Garage Door Opener: Built-in control for compatible garage doors and gates.
User Interface and Control
The Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1) uses a primarily screen-based interface while retaining steering-column stalks and a limited number of physical buttons.
This model features a dual-screen layout, separating key driver information from infotainment and vehicle controls for a more structured user experience.
Key screen details:
- Driver Information Display: The 12.3-inch screen is integrated into the dashboard behind the steering wheel. It provides essential driving data such as speed, range, and navigation prompts.
- Center Dashboard Touchscreen: The 17.0-inch touchscreen is located at the center of the dashboard. It serves as the main interface for infotainment, navigation, and vehicle settings.
The Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1) does not have a head-up display. Speed and navigation information remain on the vehicle's other displays.
Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1)
Steering Wheel
You can select from several steering wheels.
The steering wheel adjusts for tilt and reach. The adjustment is electrically powered.
The standard easy-entry function retracts the steering wheel automatically when entering or exiting the vehicle.
This is the standard steering wheel.
Design: Circular
Controls: Physical buttons, Scroll wheels
Heating: Heated (standard)
From the steering wheel you can control:
- Infotainment: Steering-wheel controls provide access to media and infotainment functions.
This steering wheel is available as an option.
Design: Yoke
Controls: Physical buttons, Scroll wheels
Heating: Heated (standard)
From the steering wheel you can control:
- Media volume
Mirrors
Both the exterior and interior mirrors use conventional mirror technology to provide a clear view of the area behind the vehicle.
Voice control is standard.
Infotainment
The Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1) features Tesla's custom infotainment system. The touchscreen interface provides access to navigation, media, and vehicle settings, with voice command support. The system supports over-the-air updates.
Navigation System
The built-in navigation uses satellite maps and supports route planning with a target charge level at the destination, plus real-time traffic.
App Store
The infotainment system includes an app store for third-party apps that run directly on the car's display without a connected phone. App availability varies by market and includes:
- Spotify: Stream music, playlists, and podcasts directly from the car's infotainment system.
- YouTube: Watch videos, channels, and playlists on the car's infotainment screen while parked.
Sound System
The Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1) has one sound system option:
- Tesla Premium Sound: The system has 22 speakers and a maximum output of 560 watts.
The model includes USB-C connectivity as standard (total: 4).
Mobile App
The Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1) has a mobile app for Android and iOS to manage and monitor the vehicle remotely. Features:
- Locate Your Vehicle: Check the current location of your car.
- Preconditioning: Preheat or cool your car before you start your journey.
- Remote Parking: Park or exit a parking space remotely from the app.
- Lock and unlock: Lock or unlock the doors remotely.
- Scheduled Charging: Set a charging schedule.
- Charge Target: Set the battery's target state of charge.
- Find your car: Sound the horn or flash the lights to locate the car.
- Route Planning: Plan your route and send it directly to your car's navigation system.
- Driving History: Review the details of your past trips.
Lights
Standard Headlights: These use LED technology.
The taillights use LED technology.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
The Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1) offers standard and optional advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
Safety Systems
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Standard on the Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1). It prevents the wheels from locking during braking.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Standard on the Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1). It improves stability during sudden maneuvers and on slippery roads.
Lane-Keeping Assist (LKA): Standard on the Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1). It applies steering corrections if the vehicle begins to leave its lane.
The Lane Departure Warning alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to leave its lane.
Front Cross Traffic Assist (FCTA): Standard on the Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1). It detects traffic crossing ahead when entering an intersection or pulling away from a stop.
Forward Collision Warning (FCW): Standard on the Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1). It warns the driver of a potential frontal collision.
Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB): Standard on the Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1). It applies the brakes automatically if the driver does not respond to an imminent collision.
Automatic Emergency Steering (AES): Standard on the Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1). The system can steer automatically to help avoid an imminent collision.
Blind-spot Monitoring (BSM): Standard on the Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1). It detects traffic in the vehicle's blind spots.
Exit Warning: Standard on the Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1). It warns occupants not to open a door when it detects approaching traffic or another hazard.
Driving Automation
The standard Basic Autopilot SAE Level 2 system includes the following driving automation features:
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
- Lane Centering Assist (LCA) / AutoSteer: Centers the vehicle in its lane and adjusts speed in traffic. The driver must keep their hands on the steering wheel and remain attentive.
The optional Enhanced Autopilot SAE Level 2 system adds the following features:
- Navigation-guided driving: Follows the planned route, including highway entry and exit.
- Automatic parking
- Automatic Lane Change (ALC)
The optional Full Self-Driving Capability SAE Level 2 system adds the following features:
- Traffic light control: Responds to detected traffic signals.
- Stop-sign control: Detects and responds to stop signs.
Sensors & Cameras
This model uses cameras without radar or ultrasonic sensors for its driver-assistance systems. Performance can be affected by poor visibility and weather.
It uses five cameras to monitor the vehicle's surroundings.
Safety
The Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1) is equipped with the following airbags:
- Front airbags for the driver and front passenger
- Side curtain airbags for both the first and second rows
- Side airbags for the driver and front passenger
- A front-center airbag that reduces the risk of the driver and front passenger colliding with each other during a side impact
Security and Access Technologies
The Tesla Model S Plaid (GEN1) includes the following security and access features:
- Keyless Entry and Start: Unlock and start the car with the key in your pocket or bag.
- Phone-as-Key Functionality: Use your smartphone as a digital key to unlock and start the vehicle.
- Alarm System: Monitors for unauthorized entry or tampering and sounds the alarm when triggered.
- Integrated Dashcam: Records video while driving.
- Parking Surveillance: Uses the vehicle's cameras to monitor its surroundings while parked.
Cargo Capacity and Towing Ability
The trunk offers a cargo capacity of 709 liters (25.0 cu ft). With the rear seat folded down, this expands to 1828 liters (64.6 cu ft).
The maximum roof load is 70 kg (154.3 lb).
The frunk (front trunk) has a capacity of 89 liters (3.1 cu ft).
The maximum permitted vehicle weight is 2629 kg (5796 lbs), and the base curb weight is 2265 kg (4993 lbs). This leaves a payload of 364 kg (802 lbs), including occupants. Options can increase curb weight and reduce payload.
A towbar is standard. Maximum towing capacity is 1600 kg (3527 lb) for a braked trailer and 750 kg (1653 lb) for an unbraked trailer.
Availability & Pricing
This model had a world premiere on 1/27/2021, and deliveries started in June 2021. This model has now been discontinued.
Pricing
Pricing may vary depending on local conditions, incentives, and promotions. Below are the starting prices for select countries:
- $129,990 (USA)
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