Tesla is gearing up for a bold return to the high-performance EV spotlight. Heavily camouflaged versions of the refreshed Model S Plaid and Model Y Performance have been spotted testing at Germany’s iconic Nürburgring track, hinting at upcoming launches for both models.
Spy shots originally published by Autocar show both models undergoing intensive testing, draped in camouflage but revealing telltale design cues. The Model Y sports a sleek new front fascia with a full-width light bar and more aerodynamic side lines. At the same time, the Model S features the recently introduced grille and bumper update, enhancing its aggressive stance.
Under the wraps, however, the two models reveal even more performance-focused tweaks. The Model S Plaid prototype appears equipped with larger air ducts, hinting at improved cooling for high-speed runs. The Model Y Performance mule features a pronounced ducktail spoiler, likely to reduce drag and increase stability at top speeds.
Though Tesla hasn’t released any official specifications yet—true to its typical secretive style—Autocar speculates that the Cybertruck’s 800V architecture could make its way into the new Model S Plaid. If so, it would enable dramatically faster charging, giving Tesla a much-needed edge in the competitive EV space.
Despite potential changes under the hood, Tesla is expected to stick with its proven setups: a tri-motor AWD system for the Model S Plaid, delivering a brutal 1,020 hp and 0–60 mph in just 2.1 seconds, and a dual-motor configuration for the Model Y Performance.
The Model Y will also inherit the interior upgrades introduced earlier in 2024: enhanced cabin materials, more supportive seating, better sound insulation, and ride comfort improvements, transforming it into a better daily driver while still packing a performance punch.
The Model S Plaid once made headlines by setting a production EV lap record at the Nürburgring. That crown was snatched by Porsche’s Taycan Turbo GT, which outpaced Tesla by a solid 18 seconds. Now, with newer threats emerging—such as Xiaomi’s SU7 Ultra, currently the fastest electric production car—it’s clear that Tesla’s benchmark-setting days are facing serious competition.
As for the Model Y, the refreshed Performance edition will need to stand toe-to-toe with some formidable new rivals, including the Porsche Macan Turbo Electric, Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, and the bold Smart #5 Brabus, all of which are redefining what electric crossovers can do.
