Tesla is fulfilling its promise with the introduction of the long-awaited Track package for the Model S Plaid, granting access to the electric sedan’s full performance potential. While the Tesla Model S Plaid impressed with its 2.1-second 0-60 mph acceleration in Car and Driver testing last year, it was limited to a top speed of 162 mph due to brake limitations.
Nevertheless, Tesla has now addressed this restriction, allowing the Model S Plaid to reach its full 200-mph top speed. This development follows the introduction of Track mode in the previous year, which provided enhanced control and cooling adjustments.
The inclusion of upgraded brakes has been a longstanding commitment from Tesla since the launch of the Plaid in 2021; although the promised carbon-ceramic brake package was initially expected to be available in the summer of that year, it remains uncertain if Tesla installed the more powerful brakes on any vehicles at the time.
Previously hindered by its inadequate brakes, the Plaid now receives a significant upgrade with the addition of carbon-ceramic rotors, accompanied by a fresh set of wheels and tires. (Image courtesy of Tesla)
Anyhow, according to CarAndDriver, the upgrade is now officially released, featuring six-piston forged front calipers and four-piston forged rear calipers equipped with high-performance pads. These components work in conjunction with 16.1-inch carbon-silicon carbide front and rear rotors; Tesla states that the package includes “track-ready” brake fluid and the carbon-ceramic brake kit can also be purchased separately from the rest of the Track pack.
In addition to the enhanced braking system, the Track package introduces new wheels and tires — Tesla’s “Zero-G” aluminum forged wheels are part of the package, complemented by Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar 3R tires in sizes 285/35R20 at the front and 305/30R20 at the rear.
It’s important to know that while the upgraded brakes are compatible with the 21-inch “Arachnid” wheels, they are not compatible with the 19-inch “Tempest” wheels.
Tesla lists the price range for the Track package as “$15,000-$20,000.” It is presumed that the $15,000 cost covers the standalone carbon-ceramic brake kit, while the full $20,000 includes the complete Track package, including the wheels and tires. Still, Tesla has not provided explicit clarification on this matter.
The Model S Plaid Track package is expected to be available for purchase in June 2023 and can be retrofitted to 2021 and newer Plaid models.
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