Tesla has supercharged its popular Model S car with a new Ludicrous Mode that’ll enable it to go from 0-60 mph in just 2.8 seconds.
The boost, which comes via the aid of a new “smart fuse” allows the car to accelerate at 1.1G, which CEO Elon Musk says makes it “faster than falling.”
Furthermore the quarter mile time for the car has now been reduced to just 10.9 seconds (via SlashGear).
The company has achieved the boost by developing a battery-powered electronic fuse that enables an increase in the maximum current throughput from 1300 to 1500 amps. Traditional fuses will melt when the voltage gets that high.
Beyond the fuse, Musk added: ”That was combined with upgrading the main pack contractor to use inconel (a high temperature space-grade superalloy) instead of steel so that it remains springy under the heat of heavy current.”
Those preferring a larger ride are also in luck, with the real-life Tony Stark promising Ludicrous Mode will also come to the Model X SUV following testing. That will boost its 0-60 time to 3.3 seconds.
The new functionality won’t come cheap though, with the Model S packing Ludicrous Mode to be offered at a $10,000 premium. Those those already on the road can be upgraded for $5,000 by their dealer within the next six months.
See also: What is Tesla Powerwall? The home battery to save the world explained
Friday’s announcement is the second major upgrade to the Model S in recent months. Back in April, the firm announced it was now fitting the electric car with a larger battery in order to go 240 miles on a single charge.
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Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.