Tesla’s Vice President of Engineering recently announced that the Model S and Model X will be receiving some much-needed updates this year. With both vehicles starting to show their age, these updates are long overdue. Spy shots taken at the Nürburgring show Tesla testing a revised Plaid version of the Model S, hinting at possible changes coming soon.
It’s no secret that Tesla, despite its reputation for innovation, can sometimes be slow to bring new products to market. The Cybertruck, for example, took nearly five years from its initial reveal to production, and when it finally arrived, it was clear that shortcuts had been taken in the validation and testing process. The same can be said for the Model S, which was originally introduced back in 2012, making it a 13-year-old design in the automotive world.
While Tesla has made updates to the interior, powertrain, and battery technology of the Model S over the years, certain fundamental aspects of the vehicle, such as its overall design, dynamic capabilities, and suspension, have remained largely unchanged. The lack of advancements like 800-volt architecture, ultra-fast charging, and improved range have made the Model S feel outdated compared to newer electric vehicles on the market.
The spy shots of the updated Model S Plaid suggest that Tesla is working on some changes to address these issues. While the overall design remains similar to the current model, new aero elements at the front and rear could potentially improve the vehicle’s grip and handling. Tesla’s VP of Engineering has also hinted at upcoming updates for the Model S and Model X, promising some “love” for the vehicles in the near future.
Speculation is rife about what these updates could entail, with hopes for improved motors, an 800-volt system, and even four-wheel steering. However, the prototype seen in the spy shots doesn’t reveal much about the extent of these changes. Tesla’s slow pace of product development has been a point of concern for some, especially as other automakers continue to iterate and update their electric vehicle offerings at a faster rate.
In conclusion, Tesla’s upcoming updates to the Model S and Model X are eagerly anticipated by fans and critics alike. The company’s ability to keep its product line fresh and competitive will be crucial in maintaining its position in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market. Hopefully, these updates will address the Model S’s shortcomings and bring the flagship sedan up to par with its more modern competitors.