SAN FRANCISCO: Tesla has added a new relaxed option called "chill" to its top electric models to give drivers the option of taming their wild acceleration, the US tech website Electrek reports.
The update is available for the Model S saloon and Model X off-roader made by the Californian company. Both cars are driven by powerful electric motors.
The range-topping P100D variants of the S and X are among the world's fastest-accelerating cars, with the ability to surge from a standstill to 100kph in less than three seconds. This is down to the instant torque available - one of the best things about driving an electric car.
It seems some model S and X owners have requested a calmer driving experience when they pull away from the traffic lights. The "chill" option lets them increase the length of time it takes for the car to get off the mark.
The option is among a batch of new software updates released to owners, according to Electrek.
"You can now choose between two acceleration options in your vehicle: chill and standard. Chill makes acceleration more gradual – ideal for smoother driving and a gentler ride for your passengers," Tesla said.
The calmer panorama for owners contrasts with a previous aptly named hot mode from Tesla called "ludicrous," which allows the batteries to push out more power than usual and dramatically boost acceleration.
The effect comes from an advanced fuse system in the batteries which allows them to cope with bursts of heavy current.
