The Tesla Model S Returns to France (the Model X as well)

After many months of unavailability, the Tesla Model S is making a comeback in the catalog in Plaid version, just like the Model X.

In November 2019, the brand unveiled the new Tesla Model S Plaid version. A performance monster that was also supposed to be doubled with a Plaid+ of 1,100 hp and 840 km of range. Since then, things have changed. CEO Elon Musk decided that the Plaid was sufficient, and it had to wait for the restyling, including a new interior.

Focused on its Model 3 and Model Y, the manufacturer only resumed production of its large sedan—and its SUV derivative, the Model X—in spring 2021. It also ceased accepting orders outside North America. Thus, since last December, the Model S and X are no longer in the catalog. Tesla has just reopened access this week, but only in Plaid versions.

Unparalleled Performance

In this version, the Tesla Model S electric sedan develops 1,020 horsepower through three motors. According to Tesla, they include “carbon-coated rotors”, and the system features a torque vectoring control. The Model S Plaid could reach 0-100 km/h in 2.1 seconds, cover 400 meters in 9.23 seconds, with a top speed of 322 km/h.

The battery remains the same, around 100 kWh (an estimate, as Tesla does not disclose the exact capacity). It would provide a range of 600 kilometers per charge here.

As for the Tesla Model X Plaid, it shares the motors and battery of the sedan. However, it achieves lower performance because it is less aerodynamic and heavier. The American crossover can still reach 262 km/h, accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.6 seconds, and has a range of 526 km.

For Tesla, this pair of electric cars is unbeatable. The Model S Plaid is “the fastest-accelerating production vehicle currently available”. The Model X is considered the best in the SUV category.

What is the price for Tesla Model S Plaid and Model X Plaid?

With such performance, one shouldn’t expect a price below 100,000 euros. The brand is quite premium, asking 138,990 euros for the Tesla Model S Plaid. Recall that the starting price announced in March 2021 was €119,990! On the other hand, compared to the most powerful Porsche Taycan, it is €54,000 more expensive! The Tesla Model X Plaid costs €141,990. It thus rivals the BMW iX M60, which is less powerful (see table).

Note that the American brand does not offer leasing or rental purchase options for these vehicles. Regarding deliveries, they will not begin before December 2022 or early 2023 according to the official site.

To see more affordable prices, you will need to wait for the base version “Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive”. However, Tesla is expected to bring it back around 100,000 euros (compared to €89,990 announced in 2021). With two motors, it will offer approximately 652 km of range on the Model S and 560 km on the Model X.

Also read: Tesla Model Y: King of Electric Cars in Europe