Tesla Design Chief Preserves Model S Plaid #001

Franz von Holzhausen, Tesla's Chief Designer, has entrusted his personal Tesla Model S Plaid Signature Edition, chassis number 001, to Unplugged Performance for professional preservation. This decision highlights a focus on maintaining the vehicle's original condition rather than pursuing further performance enhancements. The primary objective is to safeguard the car's pristine paintwork and interior, ensuring its long-term integrity as a significant piece of Tesla's automotive history. Von Holzhausen's personal vehicle is the very first production Model S Plaid Signature Edition, making it a unique artifact from the initial rollout of Tesla's high-performance sedan.

Unplugged Performance, a company specializing in Tesla modifications and performance upgrades, has taken on the task of preserving this historic chassis. Their expertise is expected to be applied to meticulous detailing and protective measures that will prevent degradation over time. This initiative underscores the growing trend of preserving early or significant examples of electric vehicles, particularly those associated with key figures in their development. The Model S Plaid, known for its exceptional acceleration and advanced technology, represents a pivotal model in Tesla's lineup, and chassis 001 holds particular significance as the progenitor of this performance variant.

The preservation effort specifically targets the aesthetic and structural elements of the vehicle. While the Model S Plaid is renowned for its potent powertrain, capable of achieving blistering acceleration figures, von Holzhausen's choice indicates a shift in priority from raw performance to historical and aesthetic value. This approach contrasts with the typical enthusiast's desire to extract maximum power from such vehicles. Instead, the emphasis is on ensuring that the original design and craftsmanship are maintained for future appreciation. The Signature Edition designation itself denotes a special, early production run, often featuring unique trim and options, further enhancing the collectible nature of this particular Model S Plaid.

This act of preservation by Tesla's design lead suggests a recognition of the Model S Plaid's place in automotive history. As electric vehicles continue to evolve rapidly, preserving early examples like chassis 001 becomes crucial for understanding the technological and design trajectory of the industry. Unplugged Performance's involvement signifies their capability in handling such delicate preservation projects, ensuring that the vehicle remains a testament to Tesla's engineering and design prowess. The decision to preserve rather than modify underscores the intrinsic value placed on the vehicle's original state, setting a precedent for how significant EVs might be treated as historical artifacts.