The wait is in spite of everything, as Tesla’s promised “affordable” electric car is sold in Oz.
Tesla’s Model S is about to get an overhaul, with changes to its motors, batteries and chassis.
A report by US website Electrek claims Tesla engineers are working on a secret new project called “Palladium”, which involves updates to both the Model S and the Model X SUV.
The Model S has remained largely unchanged since its launch in 2012, Tesla constantly updating software updates through the car.
The task is to concentrate on the batteries and drive units of the Model S, aiming at power and performance. But they can also be adjustments in style, chassis and equipment.
The website says the project involves building new production lines for both vehicles, suggesting the changes are substantial.
Secret updates are for Model S. Image: Supplied Source: Supplied
In September of the year, Tesla announced a three-engine configuration for the Model S, calling it the “checkered powertrain.” Plaid is a reference to the sci-fi comedy Spaceballs of the 1980s.
A prototype chassis deployed in September last year and Tesla said it set record time for a four-door sedan on the Laguna Seca US circuit.
Later that month, the prototype gave the impression on the test track at the Nurburgring in Germany, where a German mag unofficially timed the Plaid prototype completing the adventure 20 seconds faster than the record of 7 minutes 42 seconds set for an EV through the Porsche Taycan.
Porsche noted that its control car is a production vehicle, while the Tesla is a specially prepared prototype.
The update can come with flavor changes. Image: Supplied Source: Supplied
At this point, it is known whether Plaid models will be a functional variant of the Model S or whether they will become an advanced model.
The Electrek report indicates that a Tesla worker has hinted that there may be a new framework for the Model S and Model X. It also indicates that an internal design update planned for last year may be advanced.