What is the top speed of the Tesla Model S Plaid?

The Tesla Model S Plaid has a listed top speed of 200 mph.

That figure applies to the high-performance tri-motor Plaid version of Tesla’s Model S luxury electric sedan. Tesla rates the car at more than 1,000 horsepower and says the indicated 200-mph capability requires the appropriate paid hardware upgrade, including equipment needed for high-speed operation.

The Model S Plaid became famous primarily for acceleration rather than sustained top-speed driving. Its three-motor all-wheel-drive layout gives it exceptional launches, while battery cooling, motor design, tires and electronic controls are all important when operating at very high speed.

The 200-mph figure is often confused with earlier Plaid limits and with unofficial test results. Depending on model year, wheels, tires, software and available hardware, a particular car may not be able to reach that number. It is also different from Tesla’s claims for other models, such as the Roadster, whose advertised performance targets have changed over time.