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Tesla Revs Up Electric Racer

Tesla Motors Inc. says the track version of its Model S P100D electric vehicle, prepared for the recently announced Electric GT single-make race series, will be lighter and faster than the base sedan operating in “ludicrous mode.”
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Tesla Motors Inc. says the track version of its Model S P100D electric vehicle, prepared for the recently announced Electric GT single-make race series, will be lighter and faster than the base sedan operating in “ludicrous mode.”

The 778-hp race car will be fitted with the same 100-kW electric motor introduced last year in the top-end P100D. But the car’s zero to 60 mph time has been trimmed from 2.5 seconds to less than 2.1 seconds, according to Tesla.

The zippier speed is attributed to a 1,100-lb weight reduction achieved by gutting the vehicle’s interior. The race car also gets an upgraded suspension and brakes, along with alloy wheels and a roll cage.

This year's inaugural Electric GT season will consist of seven races in Europe and three non-championship events in the Americas. Each event will consist of a 20-minute practice session, a 60-minute qualifying run and two 60-km races (one during the day and another at dusk). Organizers aim to field 10 teams and 20 drivers.

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