Details are a little sketchy but it seems as though the Tesla Model S has bested the Porsche Taycan by 20 seconds!
This almost seems too much of a margin to be real. In fact, it is isn’t exactly real as the record 7:23 minute lap time was recorded using a handheld stopwatch. But even so, it’s difficult to claim that the Nordschleife-prepared Tesla Model S’ time is only marginally better than the Porsche’s.
The Tesla Model S being used to establish a new EV sedan lap-time record at the Nürburgring Nordschleife is prepared for the occasion. The first indicator is that the Model S P100D features at little “+” sign after the D, which would indicate more power. The car is or was fitted with either Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R or Goodyear Eagle F1 Supersport RS mounted on specific wheels, gained some aerodynamic upgrades, a Plaid (the step after Ludicrous) drive mode and new Raven engines. Oh, and guys like Thomas Mutsch, Nordschleife expert, Carl Rydquist and some dude named Nico Rosberg are sharing the wheel.
If you’re thinking this is cheating, remember that the Porsche Taycan that set the Nürburgring lap-time of 7:42 was a prototype. As well, the P100D+ will surely become available to the buying public so it’s all fair.
Tesla arrived at the Nürburgring last week and are expected to stay for up to three weeks. Real, or official, record attempts are scheduled for tomorrow, September 18th and Saturday, September 21st.
Tesla is visibly very serious about proving that their electric car technology is superior. Question is whether or not Porsche will return to the ‘Ring to reclaim the title in the future. We doubt this will be the case as the VAG seems satisfied with demonstrating so form of superiority only to the move on to the next challenge. The 300mph Bugatti Chiron example comes to mind.
All told, a 20-second difference between the two times almost makes Porsche’s run ordinary by comparison. We look forward to official results.
Source: auto-moto-sport
