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Software Update Gives Teslas Quicker Acceleration and a Crazy Launch Mode

Photo credit: Chris Perkins
Photo credit: Chris Perkins

From Road & Track

Back in October, Tesla CEO Elon Musk tweeted that an over-the-air software update was coming to the Model S and X Performance to improve power and acceleration. That software update, v.2020.12.5, is rolling out to owners for free now via over-the-air update, with a promise of quicker, more repeatable acceleration times, and something Tesla calls "cheetah stance."

Per the v.2020.12.5 release notes, the Model S and X now lower their front suspensions and adjust their adaptive dampers when Launch Mode is activated.

Per the release notes, the update adds a new functionality to Launch Mode—when engaged, the car lowers its front suspension and adjusts its active dampers to improve traction at launch.