RC:

I have to agree with Nick (Whoopsy): If Elon Musk advertises the Plaid on the track, well...the brakes have to deliver.

Brembo offers various pre-configured easy to adapt brake systems for car manufacturers, including ceramic brakes. Why not pay a couple of hundreds of bucks (production cost) more for an "adequate" brake system? They could even charge some extra money for it, calling it a "track package" and asking 5000 USD for it. Smiley

At least Tesla would give buyers an option.


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RC (Germany) - Rennteam Editor Lamborghini Huracan Performante (2019), Mercedes GLC63 S AMG (2020), Mercedes C63 S AMG Cab (2019), Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk (2019 EU)

 

The braking system of the Plaid is inadequate for any vehicle capable of accelerating from 0 to 150 mph in approximately 10 seconds.  Part of the braking deficiencies are down to physics. As we are acquainted with a tire has a fixed traction coefficient, mu, neglecting downforce effects, for acceleration and braking.  Tesla has optimized its traction control to maximize acceleration through a fast acting electronic feedback loop.  In essence, Tesla's traction control takes full advantage of the traction available from the tire.  

ABS systems attempt to maximize braking effectiveness by utilizing the same traction coefficient.  However, ABS systems rely on electronic and hydraulic systems with cycling speeds far less than that of Tesla's electronic traction control.  Therefore, braking distances at the extreme, will always lag behind acceleration distances.  Now add a braking system that is undersized for the speeds and the weight the Plaid is able to achieve, leading to significant issues on the track and on the road.  

Let's be realistic few Plaid are purchasing that model to not to drive gingerly but instead as a power trip.  The rash of incidents involving Teslas proves this out.