Tesla Track Mode: What Is It & What Cars Have It?

Track Mode gives drivers more control over their Tesla’s performance via software settings. This allows them to fine-tune their vehicles to handle like a track-ready race car, but it does come with some caveats, and not all models support it. Nevertheless, Tesla’s no stranger to introducing updates that grant significant improvements to their robust electric vehicle lineup.

The notion applies not only to upgraded self-driving and safety features but also to their eclectic vehicle’s racing performance. In 2018, Tesla introduced its Track Mode via an over-the-air software update. This mode lets Tesla owners manually adjust how the car behaves when driving, leading to better handling and acceleration in corners in the process. Teslas are already known for giving other sports cars a hard time in racing on a straight line, and Track Mode aims to do the same, albeit on a race track instead.

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There are currently two Tesla models that support Track Mode, namely, the Model 3 Performance and Model S Plaid. The Model 3 Performance’s Track Mode V2 update will be applied automatically, giving drivers several pre-set configurations, which can also be adjusted manually, designed to improve performance depending on the driver’s preferred scenario, whether lap racing, drifting, etc. It also comes with the option to track, download and share the car’s telemetry data and dashcam video captures. The same goes for the Model S Plaid’s Track Mode, but more optimizations take advantage of its robust tri-motor set-up and upgraded hardware.

How Does Track Mode Improve A Tesla’s Racing Performance?

Initiating Track Mode increases the EV’s powertrain cooling system to maximize its power output and endurance on a track, as well as amplifying its regenerative braking feature, which puts more power back into the battery, gives better stability and helps prevent overheating whenever the driver lets go of the accelerator. In addition, drivers can turn down Stability Assistance to have more control of how their vehicle turns, as well as adjust Handle Balance, which puts more power to either the front-end or back-end of the car. Unfortunately, doing so can make the car either more slippery for those who want to do drifting or have more grip for ones who prefer more stability or sharper turns. However, before Tesla owners attempt any record-breaking performance, there are a couple of things to consider.

For starters, turning Track Mode on disables certain driver-assist features of the vehicle, making it less safe to drive on the streets. Drivers can access track Mode under the Driving tab in the Settings menu, but drivers should first put their EV in Park mode before toggling it, as it can’t be switched while driving. In addition, adjusting the Handle Balance to either the front or rear-end of the EV doesn’t turn it into a full Rear-Wheel Drive or Front-Wheel Drive vehicle. Instead, it simply distributes more power on either end while still being All-Wheel Drive. While this might mean drivers won’t be able to do stationary donuts or burnouts using Track Mode, it can still help even amateur racers make their Teslas blaze through a race track like a pro.

Source: Tesla

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