Tesla Model S Embraces P100D Badge and Ludicrous Mode, Model X Follows the Lead

0 to 60 time: 2.5 seconds

With this upgrade, Tesla's Model S just became the quickest production car in the world, and Elon Musk must be rubbing his hands together since the sedan is now almost on par with the likes of Ferrari LaFerrari and Porsche 918 Spyder.

Thanks to a 100 kWh battery pack, the Model S can provide an EPA estimate of 315 miles (613 km in the EU cycle) of maximum range, but the Model X will also get the same layout, including the tire-vaporizing Ludicrous mode. Speaking of the (electric) devil, with the Ludicrous mode on, the Model S torpedoes from 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 2.5 seconds.

However, Elon Musk made it clear that at first, the P100D production won't debut at full throttle, but rather stay within a limited number, at around 200 packs per week. That's because assembling the 100 kWh battery pack is a more elaborate and complicated process than putting together the 90 kWh since increasing energy density 'gets exponentially harder'.

Moreover, the pack's cells are identical to those seen in Tesla's less potent battery packs, but engineers needed to thoroughly upgrade cooling and support structures. But since size and shape didn't suffer any mods, those who own P90D models can readily upgrade to P100D.

As far as the P100D Model X is concerned, Tesla claims that while in Ludicrous mode, the SUV goes from 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 2.9 seconds. On a full charge, the Model X P100D can travel for 289 miles (EPA-estimated) or 542 km (EU cycle).

'You've got a seven-seater SUV that can beat a McLaren F1. That's nuts.'

Elon Musk, on the Tesla Model X P100D

Pricing

Tesla says that those who ordered a P90D Ludicrous but haven't received the car yet can still tick the P100D model, provided they pay a $10,000 fee.

Those who own a P90D can also upgrade, but for a $20,000 sticker. The higher price is generated by the recycling of the used P90D battery pack.

An essential aspect here is that those looking to upgrade to P100D won't do it through Tesla's OTA (over the air) feature. The old battery needs to be physically replaced with the P100D pack, together with the wiring harness.