Tesla Introduces New Model S Features Including ‘Ludicrous Mode’
There are many people who are waiting around for Tesla Motors to release its Model X, but until then, they may be interested in the Model S, as it has just been given some new features. On Friday, Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, announced that there are three new options for the Model S. One of those options includes a longer battery range, while another option includes Ludicrous Mode, which allows drivers to accelerate faster.
Those who own a Tesla Model S will be able to upgrade to the 90 kilowatt-hour battery, according to Fortune. The battery that is currently used in the Tesla Model S is an 85 kilowatt-hour battery pack. The pack’s energy will increase by 5 percent, and it will give drivers around 15 miles of additional range.
The Tesla CEO said that Ludicrous Mode allows drivers to go from 0-60 miles per hour in just 2.8 seconds. Previously, the fastest time was over 3 seconds. On top of that, the Tesla Model S will be able to hit speeds of up to 155 mph in about 20 percent less time, according to USA Today.
Ludicrous Mode. Model S just got quicker and is now the fastest-accelerating sedan on the road: 0-60 in 2.8 seconds. http://t.co/65blztPLBS
— Tesla (@Tesla) July 17, 2015
Ludicrous Mode will cost $10,000 extra, while existing owners of the Tesla P85D can upgrade for half of that, but they will have to pay installation costs.
There is already a version of the Tesla Model S that has a feature called Insane Mode, according to LA Times. However, Musk said that nobody was really asking for ludicrous mode because it’s too ludicrous. He continued to say that the mode is a lot of fun and it’s like having your very own roller coaster.
Tesla’s announcements must have been welcomed by investors, as Tesla shares rose to $274.66 or 3 percent, and some analysts said that these improvements to the Model S could end up catching consumer interest.
As for the Tesla Model X, a few weeks ago the company said that it could be released as early as this September. Since 2012, more than 15,000 people have already pre-ordered the Tesla Model X. Tesla has dubbed the Model X as the answer to SUVs.
Tesla was wanting to deliver the Model X to consumers in 2014, but issues prevented that from happening. Musk said that the Model X will soon be able to drive itself, and that it could park itself after the driver has exited the vehicle. Not only that, but the Tesla Model X will be able to leave its parking spot to go and meet the driver and passengers.
[Photo By Justin Sullivan/Getty Images]
