Model S

Make
Tesla
Segment
Sedan

Putting an end to this little chapter in its history, Tesla has packed up its prototype Model S and returned home. No "official" lap time was set at the legendary German track but the company has said that it plans to return with a Model S again next month. it also boasted that its capable of a 7 minute and 20 second lap time and, with some improvements, could even lay down a 7 minute and 5 second time. However, that's absolutely not confirmation the Model S did that. To be fair though, Tesla did show some data on laps the Model S laid down at the Ring.

Eyewitnesses reported that the heavily modified Tesla Model S clocked a 7 minute and 23 second lap time during industry-pool sessions. That means any time recorded by Tesla or otherwise was from a standing start, rather than starting after a warm-up lap and already up to speed across the start line. Whether Tesla didn't intend to schedule private time or just couldn't book it at short notice is pure speculation. However, it does mean that the drama will continue. For as long as Tesla has the budget to nip at Porsche's heels, anyway.

We also don't know if Tesla will be returning with a car nearer production model standards. There have been reports that at least one of the cars is completely stripped out, with extra aerodynamic elements and a triple-motor set up added. The problem Tesla has is that if it wants to get some publicity for the Model S being faster around the Ring than Porsche's Taycan, which appears to be the whole point, then it needs to be a lot closer to a production car. Musk has said that the Nurburgring car previews a new Model S Plaid coming late next year, but the Taycan is already being made.