It’s an interesting concept that hasn’t been tried too often, but there couldn’t be a better electric car than the Tesla Model S to tinker around with for customization. Following the Saleen-tuned Model S that we first heard about in the spring, Unplugged Performance has now launched its concept Model S tuner at the SEMA automotive expo in Las Vegas.
This isn’t the first time either we’ve heard of Unplugged’s Model S tuner, but SEMA 2014 marked the first time people were actually able to see the vehicle in person. It’s nice to see that Unplugged has added some exterior tweaks to the Model S, altering its front end and adding new, upgraded wheels, and also customized its interior. On the performance end, the Unplugged Model S is more aerodynamic, and boasts of a new suspension setup.
Going into the specifics, the car’s front design, as redesigned by Unplugged, has a bolder appearance and makes the Model S look wider than the stock version. An integrated Ram Air ducting system improves aerodynamic efficiency and cooling, and the car features 21-inch BBS UP-01 wheels and Toyo tires, replacing what’s offered on the stock Model S. Inside, the Unplugged tuner has retrofit sport seats, and the company’s own premium floor mats that are a hybrid of Ferrari leather and Rolls-Royce carpet.
While there don’t appear to be any tweaks to the car’s engine, Unplugged Performance co-founder Ben Schaeffer quipped in the company’s press release that he hopes the new tuner would help it become “the AMG of Tesla.” Those who want tangible performance upgrades, on the other hand, have something from Tesla itself, as the automaker recently launched the new all-wheel-drive, dual-motor “D” variant, with its two electric motors that combine for 691 horsepower and 687 lb/ft. torque.