2021 Tesla Model S Acceleration Modes
Touch to choose a preferred acceleration mode:
- Chill limits acceleration for a slightly smoother and gentler ride.
NoteWhen Chill is selected, Chill displays on the instrument panel, above the driving speed.
- Sport provides the normal level of acceleration.
- Insane (called Plaid on performance vehicles) (if equipped) provides access to the maximum level of acceleration immediately available.
Note
Using the increased torque and power available in Insane or Plaid mode can reduce range and efficiency. Insane or Plaid strives to keep the Battery within an optimal temperature range. In addition to heating the Battery, these settings also cool the battery when necessary (for example, while driving at high speeds, during rapid acceleration, driving for long periods, etc.) In addition, Model S features Drag Strip Mode. Using Drag Strip Mode to precondition your Model S is useful before a short distance race.
Drag Strip Mode
Drag Strip Mode preconditions the Battery and drive unit to ideal operating temperatures for timed acceleration. Model S stays in Drag Strip Mode for three hours, even if you leave the vehicle. After three hours, the feature times out to prevent unnecessary energy consumption (for example, you leave the vehicle and forget to cancel Drag Strip Mode).
When using Drag Strip Mode, Model S consumes more energy to keep the Battery within an optimal temperature range Cancel Drag Strip Mode at any time by toggling Drag Strip Mode off.
Note
Drag Strip Mode automatically disables Slip Start when enabled.
Warning
Drag Strip Mode is designed for use on closed circuit driving courses only. It is the driver’s responsibility to ensure that driving style and acceleration do not endanger or inconvenience other road users.
How to Launch the Vehicle
The touchscreen provides visual instructions on how to launch:
- Touch .
- Wait for the instrument panel to indicate that the vehicle is Peak Performance Ready.
- With Model S shifted into Drive and at a complete stop, firmly hold the brake pedal with your left foot, then fully press the accelerator pedal.
- Once step 3 is complete, the front suspension begins lowering into a “cheetah stance”.
NoteSuspension lowering for “cheetah stance” significantly reduces ground clearance.
- Wait for the instrument panel to indicate that Drag Strip Mode is Ready to Launch.
- Once you see “Cheetah Stance Enabled” and “Ready to launch” on the instrument panel, release the brake pedal to launch the vehicle.