Tesla Introduces New Ultra Red Paint, Enhanced Brakes, And New Glass Roof For Model S And Model X

Mar. 11, 2023 10:32 AM ET by Jarryd Neves Design / 9 Comments

It's the first new color for the range-topping models in more than five years.

Tesla has quietly introduced Ultra Red as a new paint option for the Model X and Model S, making it the first new color for these variants in seven years. Additionally, the company has made revisions to the glass roof in these models and enhanced the braking ability of the Plaid derivatives.

The gorgeous shade has appeared on the automaker's configurator, where we see it carries a $3,000 premium. Ultra Red replaces Red Multi-Coat which has become a mainstay of Tesla's color palette. Darker and richer than the outgoing hue, the new color lends the electric pair a fresh new look. The glossy metallic finish looks more premium and we're guessing prospective Tesla owners will happily fork out extra for the new finish.

Interestingly, it's very similar to the Midnight Cherry Red that is offered exclusively in European and Middle Eastern markets.

Tesla

The glass roof on the Model S and Model X has been redesigned and now weighs less, lowing the center of gravity and aiding handling (although even a seasoned pro might be hard-pressed to tell the different). Whatever Tesla has done with the roof also now lets in five times more light without compromising on UV protection.

As for the Model S and X Plaid, these models have drawn criticism over the stock brakes not being sufficient for the power and weight of these models, so Tesla is now installing better brake pads with a higher thermal capacity. This means they will resist fade and improve stopping power and repeatability.

Tesla

We're delighted to see this shade appear stateside and expected this to happen. Earlier this year, the company's chief designer Franz von Holzhausen hinted that the US would gain more color options. Midnight Cherry Red isn't the only new shade Tesla has launched in other markets. Quicksilver Metallic is another new addition to international markets, where it has replaced the Midnight Silver Metallic finish.

Perhaps we'll see the addition of Quicksilver in America, albeit under a different name.

These new colors are not just pricier because they're new. According to Tesla, the latest tones are created with special techniques and developed at Gigafactory Berlin. Musk has previously described the paint facility as the "world's most advanced paint shop" and said the new colors will "subtly change with [the] curvature" of the bodywork.

Tesla

"It's about more than the color itself, but the layers of paint [to] get the dimensionality. We are going to make a very special red, which probably a lot of people have seen. It's like 13 layers of paint. And we will also have a silver with maybe eight layers. It's also going to be special - kind of a liquid silver," said the CEO at the time.

Unfortunately, those wanting Red Multi-Coat will have to purchase the smaller Model 3 and Model Y derivatives. The color is still available on these vehicles and carries a $2,000 premium. We wouldn't be surprised if it's eventually replaced by Ultra Red at a later date, though.

Recently, Tesla reduced pricing for the Model S and Model X, which now have a starting price of $89,990 and $99,990, respectively. Even if owners were to specify Ultra Red at $3,000, it would still be cheaper than before.