The Pikes Peak International Hill Climb is expected to kick off in the next few days. The illustrious has attracted a surfeit of exciting vehicles, including Ken Block's incredible Hoonipigasus, a one-of-a-kind Porsche 911. Electric car fans also have a lot to look forward to. Tackling the challenging event this year is the Unplugged Performance Tesla race car, based upon the already rapid Model S Plaid.
Ahead of its Pikes Peak run, renowned racing driver Randy Pobst tackled Laguna Seca in the electric racer to test newly-added upgrades which were applied to the vehicle. Unplugged Performance says the shakedown was needed to perfect the new suspension and aerodynamic upgrades, which will set "Dark Helmet" up for even greater success this time around.
Last year, the Tesla managed to set a new record within the class it competed, with a time of 6:57.220. More impressively, it managed to clinch first place honors from a similarly rapid Acura NSX.
It may not have broken its blistering Laguna Seca lap record of 1:28.2 but, as seen in the video above, the tuned Tesla is massively quick. The new aero and suspension additions have paid off; the silent supercar killer corners flat and without fuss.
Incredible video footage captured on a drone demonstrates the Tesla's dynamic prowess, with the electric car sailing through the challenging Corkscrew with ease. Already a quick machine, the Model S Plaid was made even faster by stripping the interior of all its luxuries, including the center console and door panels. The airbags have been removed, too.
Instead, Pobst is kept safe by a dedicated racing seat with a six-point harness and a roll cage. Custom dampers and an uprated braking system lend the rapid EV superior tractability, increased by the Yokohama Advan slicks which are wrapped around the lightweight wheels. Compared to last year, the Model S Plaid is wearing a notably larger rear wing, diffuser, and front splitter.
Last year, the team failed to set a new record. Unexpected weather conditions forced event officials to shorten the sprint by three miles, making this year - the 100th Pikes Peak running - the perfect occasion for Pobst and the Unplugged Performance Tesla to chalk up some incredible achievements.
In 2020, both Pobst and Unplugged Performance suffered some bad luck. Piloting a modified Model 3, Pobst hit a bump in the road which sent the battery-powered performer off the course. Unfortunately, the Tesla was badly damaged and suffered suspension and wheel issues.
Hopefully, things will be a lot smoother this time around. Aside from the Unplugged Performance Model S, spectators are in for a treat. Ken Block will pose a serious threat, but we're also looking forward to seeing how the newly-introduced Acura Integra gets on at the event.