Earlier this month, Tesla updated its website to state the Model S and X Plaid upgrades now include “higher thermal capability brake calipers,” but now this has changed (like to cause some confusion).
Tesla has updated the description of Plaid Upgrades for Model S and Model X to now say “higher thermal capability brake pads.” Tesla North reader William spotted the change on Monday.
Brake pads are replaceable friction pads that press against a vehicle’s brake rotor, creating friction which stops the vehicle’s wheels from rotating.
Brake calipers are mechanical components that house the brake pads and use hydraulic pressure to clamp the pads against a vehicle’s brake rotor, causing friction that stops the vehicle’s wheels from rotating.
Earlier this month, when the wording mentioned the addition of “higher thermal capability brake calipers”, Model S Plaid and Model X Plaid images showed red brake calipers. Also, the top speed of 200 mph was no longer had an asterisk showing. Pricing remains the same for Model S and X Plaid, which recently saw some big price drops.
Check out the older image from January 5, below:
Some owners have criticized stock brakes on Plaid models as underpowered. Tesla has a $20,000 USD ceramic brake upgrade kit available, but it has been delayed. Others have gone with third-party aftermarket ceramic brake upgrades, such as those available from Unplugged Performance.
The Model S and Model X also recently were updated to include the option of a regular round steering wheel, instead of the yoke. A retrofit is available for owners with a Yoke Steering Wheel, at the price tag of $700 from Tesla.
