Tesla has radically updated the Model S and Model X and the improvements are very cool.

It has introduced the 750kW Model S Plaid and Model X Plaid, which in the Model S can propel it to 100km/h in a “beyond ludicrous mode” 1.99 seconds, making it the first production car to bust the 2.0 second mark. 

The Model X needs 0.5 seconds longer, at 2.5 seconds to 100/h. Both cars can top out at 322km/h, with the right tyres, of course.

Inside there is a new 17 inch touchscreen that is said to be much more responsive than the previous 15 inch screen. In the back, rear passengers now get to enjoy an 8 inch touchscreen, to control most functions.

 Most radical is the “stalkless steering yoke”, like what one would find on aircraft. It uses technology that “guesses drive direction based on what obstacles it sees, context and map”, says Musk.

New battery cells will give a future new model, the “Plaid +” an expected range of 850km, and this is due out later this year.

The Tesla Model S Plaid and Model X Plaid are priced from $209,990 while the Model S Plaid + is $257,900. 

For $11,400 you can add Full Self-Driving Capability. This autonomous system lets you drive from motorway on-ramp to off-ramp including interchanges and overtaking slower cars, it also changes lanes on the motorway, parks, you can summon it and it has Traffic Light and Stop Sign Control that assists stops at traffic controlled intersections.

Tesla NZ is taking orders now with deliveries expected here next year for the electric vehicles, according to the website.