Here's a comprehensive guide on how to put a Tesla in Ludicrous Mode:
Engaging Ludicrous Mode: Unleash Your Tesla's Inner Beast
So, you're ready to experience the full, mind-bending acceleration your Tesla is capable of? You've heard the whispers, seen the videos, and now you want to feel that G-force shove yourself. Well, you're in the right place! Let's embark on this electrifying journey to unlock Ludicrous Mode.
Step 1: Confirm Your Tesla's Ludicrous Potential 類
Before we dive in, let's make sure your Tesla is even capable of Ludicrous Mode. Not all Teslas are created equal in this regard.
Do you own a Model S or Model X? Ludicrous Mode is exclusive to performance-oriented versions of these models. Specifically, you're looking for vehicles designated as P90D, P100D, or the newer Plaid models. If you have a Long Range or standard range Model S/X, or any Model 3 or Model Y (even Performance variants), you won't have Ludicrous Mode. While Model 3 Performance and Model Y Performance are incredibly quick, they don't have the "Ludicrous" designation.
Quick Check: Look at the badging on the rear of your car or check your vehicle's specifications in the Tesla app or on the in-car display. If it's a P100D or Plaid, you're golden!
Is the "Ludicrous" upgrade installed? For some older P90D models, Ludicrous Mode was an optional upgrade. If you bought your car used, it's worth verifying if this upgrade was purchased by the previous owner. You can usually confirm this through your Tesla account or by checking the "Software" section on your car's touchscreen.
Battery State of Charge (SoC): For optimal Ludicrous performance, your battery should be at a high state of charge, ideally 80% or more. A lower SoC will limit the available power, as the battery needs to be able to deliver a massive surge of energy for Ludicrous acceleration. Think of it like trying to draw a lot of water from an almost empty bucket – it just won't flow as fast.
Step 2: Prepare Your Tesla and Yourself
Ludicrous Mode isn't just about speed; it's about a violent, instantaneous acceleration that can be disorienting if you're not prepared. Safety first!
Warm Up the Battery (Crucial for Plaid Models): For Plaid models, and to a lesser extent P100D, the battery needs to be at its optimal operating temperature for maximum performance. This often means driving the car for a bit, or even engaging a specific "Drag Strip Mode" (more on that later) which pre-conditions the battery.
Tip: If your car has been sitting for a while, a few spirited accelerations (even in normal sport mode) can help warm up the battery.
Find a Safe, Controlled Environment: This is paramount. Do NOT attempt Ludicrous Mode on public roads, especially not in traffic. Find a private road, a closed course, or a drag strip where it's safe to accelerate rapidly without endangering yourself or others. Ensure there are no obstacles, pedestrians, or other vehicles in your path.
Secure All Occupants and Loose Items: Tell your passengers what's about to happen! Warn them about the impending G-forces. Ensure everyone's seatbelts are securely fastened. Remove any loose items from the dashboard, seats, or parcel shelf that could become projectiles during rapid acceleration. Trust us, your phone will fly!
Check Tire Pressure: Properly inflated tires are essential for optimal grip and safety. Refer to your car's manual or the sticker on the driver's side door jamb for the recommended tire pressures.
Step 3: Engaging Ludicrous Mode Through the Touchscreen ️
Now for the fun part! This is where you actually activate the beast.
Navigate to "Driving" Settings: On your Tesla's large touchscreen, tap the "Car" icon (usually in the bottom left corner, or accessible via the main menu). Then, navigate to the "Driving" section.
Select "Acceleration": Within the "Driving" settings, you'll see an option for "Acceleration." Tap on it.
Choose "Ludicrous" (or "Plaid"): Depending on your specific model, you'll see different acceleration options.
For P90D/P100D: You should see options like "Chill," "Sport," and "Ludicrous." Select "Ludicrous."
For Plaid Models: Your options will likely be "Chill," "Sport," and "Plaid." Select "Plaid." (Note: While "Plaid" is the mode name for Plaid models, it effectively serves the same purpose as "Ludicrous" did on previous performance models, representing the absolute maximum acceleration.)
Acknowledge the Warning (If Applicable): Tesla often presents a warning message when selecting Ludicrous or Plaid mode, reminding you of the extreme acceleration and the need for a safe environment. Read it and confirm.
"Ludicrous +" / "Drag Strip Mode" (For Maximum Performance on Plaid): If you have a Plaid Model S or Model X, you'll have an additional option for "Drag Strip Mode." This is where Tesla truly unleashes everything.
To activate Drag Strip Mode: After selecting "Plaid" acceleration, look for a small "Drag Strip Mode" button or option. Tap it.
The Pre-Conditioning Process: When you engage Drag Strip Mode, your Tesla will begin a battery and powertrain pre-conditioning process. This can take several minutes (often 5-15 minutes, depending on ambient temperature and battery state). You'll see a progress bar on the screen and hear various whirring and fan noises as the car prepares itself for optimal launch.
Important: Do not attempt a launch until the car indicates it's ready. The screen will usually display "Launch Ready" or a similar message.
Step 4: The Ludicrous Launch Procedure
With Ludicrous Mode engaged and your car pre-conditioned (if applicable), it's time for the main event!
Heel and Toe (Optional but Recommended): For the most consistent and powerful launch, many experienced Tesla owners use a "heel and toe" technique (not the traditional ICE car method). This means:
Press the brake pedal firmly with your left foot.
Press the accelerator pedal fully with your right foot.
Hold both pedals down simultaneously. You'll feel the car "squat" down, and for some models, you might see a "Launch Control" or "Ready" message appear on the instrument cluster.
Release the brake pedal.
The Launch: As you release the brake pedal, hold the accelerator down. The car will launch with brutal, instantaneous force. You'll be pinned back into your seat, and the world outside will become a blur.
Experience: The sensation is unlike anything most people have ever felt in a road car. It's not just fast; it's the lack of delay that's truly astonishing. There's no engine revving, no gear changes, just pure, unadulterated acceleration.
Maintain Control: Keep both hands firmly on the steering wheel. The car's traction control system is incredibly sophisticated and will manage wheelspin, but being prepared for the immense acceleration is key.
Step 5: Post-Launch Considerations and Enjoyment
You've done it! You've experienced Ludicrous Mode. Now what?
Acknowledge the Power: Take a moment to appreciate the engineering marvel you just commanded.
Battery Drain: Repeated Ludicrous launches will consume battery charge at a rapid rate. Be mindful of your remaining range.
Cool Down (Especially for Plaid): After several aggressive launches, particularly in a Plaid, the car might temporarily reduce available power to protect the battery and motors. This is normal. Allow the car to cool down before attempting more launches.
Share the Experience (Responsibly!): If you have passengers, they'll likely be wide-eyed and grinning. Sharing this unique sensation is part of the fun, but always prioritize safety.
Ludicrous Mode isn't just a gimmick; it's a testament to Tesla's commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle performance. Enjoy it responsibly!
Related FAQ Questions
How to check if my Tesla has Ludicrous Mode?
You can check if your Tesla has Ludicrous Mode by navigating to the "Driving" settings on your car's touchscreen and looking for "Ludicrous" or "Plaid" under the "Acceleration" options. If these options are present, your car is equipped.
How to warm up Tesla battery for Ludicrous Mode?
To warm up your Tesla battery for Ludicrous Mode, especially in Plaid models, simply drive the car for a while, or engage "Drag Strip Mode" through the touchscreen. This mode automatically pre-conditions the battery and powertrain for optimal performance.
How to launch a Tesla in Ludicrous Mode?
To launch a Tesla in Ludicrous Mode, ensure the mode is activated, press the brake pedal firmly with your left foot, fully depress the accelerator pedal with your right foot simultaneously, and then quickly release the brake pedal while keeping the accelerator pressed.
How to turn off Ludicrous Mode in Tesla?
You can turn off Ludicrous Mode by going back to the "Driving" settings on your Tesla's touchscreen, selecting "Acceleration," and choosing "Chill" or "Sport" mode instead of "Ludicrous" or "Plaid."
How to prepare car for Ludicrous Mode?
Prepare your car for Ludicrous Mode by ensuring a high battery state of charge (ideally 80%+), checking tire pressure, and allowing the battery to warm up (especially for Plaid models) through driving or "Drag Strip Mode."
How to ensure safety when using Ludicrous Mode?
Ensure safety when using Ludicrous Mode by only attempting it on private roads or closed courses, warning and securing all passengers, removing loose items from the cabin, and maintaining a firm grip on the steering wheel.
How to tell the difference between Ludicrous and Plaid Mode?
Ludicrous Mode was the top acceleration tier for older performance Model S and X (P90D, P100D). Plaid Mode is the even more extreme, current top acceleration tier specifically for the latest Model S Plaid and Model X Plaid, indicating higher performance capabilities.
How to get the most out of Ludicrous Mode?
To get the most out of Ludicrous Mode, ensure your battery is fully warmed and highly charged, engage "Drag Strip Mode" (if available), use the "heel and toe" launch technique, and have properly inflated tires.
How to know if Tesla battery is ready for Ludicrous launch?
Your Tesla's touchscreen will typically indicate when the battery and powertrain are ready for a Ludicrous or Plaid launch, especially when "Drag Strip Mode" is engaged, often displaying a "Launch Ready" message.
How to find a safe location for Ludicrous Mode?
Find a safe location for Ludicrous Mode by identifying a private road, a dedicated drag strip, or a closed track. Avoid public roads, areas with traffic, pedestrians, or any potential obstacles.
