How to improve performance in your Tesla

How can you improve the performance of a Tesla? The car is virtually perfect. Typically, when referring to performance, you may think of improving speed or range. Unfortunately, their are no (known) ways to make your Tesla go any faster. Sure, you can select the "Ludicrous" setting and you'll get a bit more kick out of its already ridiculous acceleration. And, yes — if you're racing your Tesla, it's best to do so on a full charge. That's when it goes quickest. However, to get any substantial difference, you'll simply have to trade your Tesla in for a higher performance model. When it comes to range though... there are some helpful tips.

Above: Tesla Model S (Image: Motor Trend)

There are some factors that will greatly affect your driving range. Racing the car as fast as you can, constantly, can eat up range quickly. And, cold weather is usually a big culprit. But, other factors — including hills, wind, and your Tesla's interior climate control system could also eat up some range. When (and if) possible you can try to mitigate these factors. An easier approach: make sure your settings have "range mode" set to "on" and regenerative braking set to "standard" in order capture as much energy back into the battery as possible. For a deeper dive on this, check out the book Owning Model S by Nick Howe. However, again... if you really want to more range, you'll have to upgrade to a larger Tesla battery size. 

Above: Cold weather will have a negative impact of range (Image: Hybrid Cars)

Beyond your Tesla's speed and range, there are a few other areas of the vehicle where you can improve its performance. There's a cheeky reference on your sound system... the volume on a Tesla doesn't simply got to "10" — it actually goes all the way to "11" — an ode to the cult movie classic This is Spinal Tap. However, many believe that the sound system could be better. We agree. For those music aficionados that want richer, deeper bass, we recommend you check out our NVX bass package for the Tesla Model S. For those who want to completely upgrade the sound system altogether, take a look at the Light Harmonic premium audio system custom-designed for the Tesla Model S.

Above: NVX bass package providing deeper, richer bass for the Tesla Model S

Another area to improve performance is with your Tesla's interior lighting. Unfortunately, Tesla's factory lights are fairly dim — this can be especially difficult when searching your trunk or frunk when camping outdoors at night, or, parked in a dark parking garage. We've got a LED lighting upgrade kit to improve brightness in your trunk, frunk and interior. In addition, check out this easy electronics modification: we can help you double your USB ports, or add USB ports to your back seat passengers. Another missing great feature unavailable on the Tesla Model S is a hitch to help you carry skis, bikes, or snowboard equipment. Take a look at our Ecohitch in order to solve that particular problem. And, if you're required to mount a front license plate, take a look at our front license plate bracket.

Above: Ecohitch for the Tesla Model S

In any event, hopefully a few of these tips, tricks, and accessories can help you to improve the performance of your Tesla.