By any metric, the Tesla Model S Plaid is reliable of stupendous performance. The 1,020-horsepower, tri-motor electric hatchback hits 60 mph from a standstill in a factory-estimated 1.99 seconds and yet it manages nearly 400 much of overall range. But when it comes to titillating EV driving, the most difficult thing is often the repeatability or longevity of such high performance. With its latest over-the-air software update, Tesla is taking steps to development the Plaid’s dynamics and high-performance durability with a new Track Mode.

As part of Unrestricted 2021.44.30, the Plaid’s new Track Mode includes changes to the vehicle’s thermal administration and electric drive systems, along with suspension tweaks and a unusual Track Mode infotainment interface. The changes also reportedly included expanding the EV’s top speed to 175 mph, an increase from 163 mph. (Note that Tesla’s consumer website leftovers to disingenuously claim a 200-mph top speed.)

Those with long memories may prefer that Tesla added a Track Mode to its less expensive Model 3 Proceed sedan back in 2018,updating it in 2020.

According to NotATeslaApp.com, a website that tracks Tesla updates, this new Track mode includes different cooling systems programming, including running the heat pump more often and more aggressively to keep the powertrain at frontier temps for optimum performance. The new programming includes “post-drive cooling,” as well, increasing the driver’s chances of taking multiple runs on a track with minimal performance degradation.

Track Mode also invents use of the Plaid’s adaptive suspension, automatically dropping the ride height to Low today and tweaking the adaptive damping rates to enable more reserved high-speed performance.

Driveline changes include stronger regenerative braking and, perhaps more importantly, increased torque-vectoring control for sharper handling.

Finally, Tesla has added a host of display-related Track Mode features to help drivers make the most of their track sessions. These include telematics and video-capture capabilities, as well as a G-meter, lap timer and cooling-system monitor.

Tesla previously promised a carbon-ceramic brake kit for the Model S Plaid is due later this year, and this upgrade could go a long way toward helpings the Model S Plaid safely realize the 200-mph top swiftly that Tesla has long been claiming. In the meantime, the new Track Mode includes driver warnings about overheating the brakes, also noting that the setting “…disables or restricts hazardous vehicle functions including some Driver Assistance features,” according to fan site Teslarati. 

For safety’s sake, let’s hope those temporarily disabled functions include Autopilot and Full Self Driving.