Tesla is taking the term “amping things up” a bit too literally lately, with the Model 3 possibly due to receive a Track Mode package soon. This follows recent sightings of a top-end Model S Plaid making lap record attempts at the hallowed grounds of the Nurburgring Nordschleife, perhaps in a move to regain the EV spotlight from the likes of the Porsche Taycan.
Now, back to the subject matter. A user on Reddit managed to get hold of what appears to be a page out of the Model 3’s parts catalogue, revealing the option of having Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres labelled under “Track Mode Package.”
A quick check on Tesla’s website reveals no further details, but the Michelin rubbers in question are clearly wider, with a profile of 245/35 R20. The current range-topping Model 3 Performance is the only one to get 20-inch wheels, but those roll on narrower 235/35 tyres.
Unfortunately, we are unable to gain access to Tesla’s parts catalogue, but according to another Reddit user, the Track Mode pack also includes uprated brake pads and carbon-fibre centre wheel caps. There’s also rumours of a new suspension setup, although it’s unclear how extensive this upgrade will be, if any at all.
Presently, the Model 3 is available in three flavours, starting with the entry-level Standard Plus with 400 km of range and 7.6 kW onboard charger, mid-tier Long Range AWD with 500 km of range, and the quickest-accelerating Performance, also with a range of 500 km. The latter two come with a faster 11.5 kW onboard charger. Where does Track Mode slide in, then?
Well, technically it’s not new, having been previewed nearly a year ago by Tesla. For now, Track Mode will likely be a feature reserved for the Performance variant. The system makes use of the car’s dual motor setup, enabling torque to be distributed invariably between the two drive axles. This allows drifting, if the video below is to be believed, and Track Mode also comes with brake torque vectoring for better cornering performance. What do you think of this?
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