The 1,060-HP Tesla Plaid-Powered Cobra Kit Car An Electrifying Beast on Wheels
Electric vehicle (EV) conversions are all the rage, and Tesla’s components often lead the charge in transforming classic cars into modern performance monsters. However, few conversions venture into the extreme territory of using Tesla’s tri-motor Plaid powertrain, which boasts an astonishing 1,060 horsepower. Enter this lengthened and widened Cobra kit car, a one-of-a-kind EV conversion that pushes the boundaries of performance and design.
In this blog, we’ll delve into the remarkable features of this Tesla-Plaid-powered Cobra, its insane performance capabilities, and why it’s turning heads in the world of EV conversions.
Why the Cobra Needed an Overhaul
Fitting Tesla’s cutting-edge Plaid powertrain and a massive 100-kilowatt-hour battery pack from the Model S Plaid required significant modifications to the classic Cobra’s structure.
- Size Matters:
The Cobra had to be lengthened by approximately two feet and widened by about 10 inches. The extra space accommodates the Tesla components while improving handling and stability. - Design Tweaks:
The unpainted metal extensions showcase just how much the car has been modified. The broader and longer frame not only enhances the car’s aesthetics but also ensures a smoother and more stable ride at high speeds.
Powertrain and Performance
At the core of this Cobra’s transformation is Tesla’s Plaid powertrain, which includes front and rear subframes and three motors. Here’s what sets it apart:
- Bonkers Acceleration:
Weighing in at just 3,300 pounds, this Cobra is roughly 1,500 pounds lighter than the Model S Plaid it borrows its powertrain from. This dramatic weight reduction makes for blistering acceleration that pins passengers to their seats—even at partial throttle. - All-Wheel Drive:
Despite having all-wheel drive, the Cobra struggles to keep its tires planted. In driving videos, the car loses traction even at higher speeds, highlighting just how overwhelming its power is. - Drag Strip Potential:
While its slick tires struggle on unprepared surfaces, the Cobra’s performance could shine on a grippy drag strip. With its weight advantage and staggering power, it’s expected to outperform a Model S Plaid and rival some of the quickest-accelerating vehicles on the planet.
Other EV Conversions
The Cobra’s Plaid-powered transformation isn’t the only wild EV project out there, but it stands out for its raw power and weight advantage.
| Feature | Tesla-Powered Cobra | Model S Plaid | Dodge Challenger Hellcat Plaid Swap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 1,060 | 1,060 | 1,020 |
| Weight | 3,300 pounds | 4,800 pounds | ~4,400 pounds |
| Acceleration | Faster due to weight | Insanely quick | Quick but heavier |
| Traction Issues | Struggles with grip | Better traction | Moderate traction |
The Cobra’s ability to shed weight gives it an edge in acceleration compared to both the Model S Plaid and the Dodge Challenger Hellcat Plaid swap.
Handling and Driving Dynamics
The modifications to the Cobra’s dimensions serve more than just functional purposes—they also improve the car’s handling.
- Longer Wheelbase:
The extended wheelbase enhances comfort and provides greater stability at high speeds. - Wider Track:
The 10-inch increase in width helps with predictability and handling, making the car more manageable despite its overwhelming power.
However, the sheer intensity of its acceleration means drivers will need skill and caution to handle this beast on public roads.
Tires and Traction Challenges
This Cobra rides on fully slick tires, which typically excel on prepared surfaces like race tracks. However, these tires can struggle to provide grip under the following conditions:
- Unprepared Surfaces: The lack of traction on regular roads makes the car prone to wheelspin.
- Cold Temperatures: Slick tires need to reach optimal temperature to deliver peak performance.
On a drag strip with a grippier surface, this Cobra could truly unleash its full potential, likely outperforming even Tesla’s own Model S Plaid.
Engineering Excellence: The Role of Ingenext
The Cobra wouldn’t have been possible without Ingenext, a company specializing in custom EV controllers. Ingenext developed the special custom controller that allows Tesla’s Plaid powertrain to function seamlessly in this unconventional setup.
The result is an engineering marvel that blends cutting-edge EV technology with the classic appeal of a Cobra kit car.
Why This Cobra Matters
This unique project demonstrates the versatility and potential of EV conversions. It showcases how Tesla’s high-performance technology can be reimagined in a completely different vehicle category, opening the door to new possibilities for car enthusiasts and innovators alike.
The Tesla-Plaid-powered Cobra is more than just an EV conversion—it’s a statement of what’s possible when engineering meets imagination. With its insane power, jaw-dropping acceleration, and one-of-a-kind design, it’s a car that redefines performance and electrification in the world of kit cars.
While its raw power and traction challenges make it intimidating to drive, there’s no denying the thrill and innovation it represents. For enthusiasts dreaming of merging classic car aesthetics with modern EV performance, this Cobra is a powerful symbol of what the future could hold.
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