While we were looking elsewhere, a Tesla Model S Plaid modified by Unplugged Performance quietly set a new lap record on the 2.5-kilometer (1.55-mile) long Streets of Willow Springs course, which is considered a historical landmark in California. The previous champion – a tuned Corvette Grand Sport – was nearly 3 seconds slower to the finish line.
Through its nearly ten-year-long history, Unplugged Performance has worked exclusively with Tesla cars. Its headquarters is actually located near the Tesla Design Center in Hawthorne. The Plaid liftback ended up with plenty of new aerodynamic components, Öhlins adjustable suspension parts, racing wheels, carbon-ceramic brakes, lightweight polycarbonate windows and a roll cage. According to InsideEVs.com, the full treatment must have cost more than $100,000.
Piloted by Craig Cocker, the car weighing 2,222 kilograms (4,900 pounds) completed the lap in 1 minute 13.51 seconds. Its predecessor, the Corvette Grand Sport mentioned above, crossed the finish line in 1:16.45.