Does Tesla removing the restrictions on Ludicrous mode make it less reliable?

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Earlier this year, Tesla Model S owners discovered that the automaker was restricting power output in certain models equipped with its "Ludicrous" performance mode. The limits were tied to frequent use of "Launch Mode," essentially Tesla's version of launch control. If a driver used it too much, Tesla restricted power output to prevent excessive wear and tear on components.

That is what Tesla asserted originally anyway. Possibly against Elon's better judgement, they have now removed the launch mode restriction. Will that cause undue wear and tear on the battery, motors etc? Time will tell, for now the owners who have them will enjoy and ask questions later.

Squeaky wheel gets the grease!
This restriction is now gone in response to customer’s complaints. This kind of harkens back to the golden years of muscle cars when owners wanted to squeeze every last drop of performance from their speed machines. The big difference is now that tuning is a change in code of software instead of any mechanical change.

Tesla responds

"We've listened and are happy to tell you that for those that wish to do so, you can again enable maximum battery performance independently from Launch Mode, ensuring that you have maximum flexibility in how you use your car," Jon McNeill, Tesla president of sales and services, said. The fix was part of the 2017.32 software update launched last week.

Model 3 "D?"

If the use of Model S P100D at dragstrips around the country continue to increase, I wouldn’t be surprised to see this questioned again if we end up getting a performance version of the Model 3. Would you spend the extra money for a "D" version of a Model 3? If so, how much extra? Maybe a used Model S P100D would be more appealing. Questions to ponder for the lead footed set.

Submitted by Ross (not verified) on August 31, 2017 - 2:22PM

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In your last section, I think you mean Model 3 "P" (not D). The "D" is the dual-motor AWD, which is required for the Performance "P" version but doesn't give you full performance and Ludicrous mode. "D" is coming in Spring/Summer 2018. I thought a "P" had been mentioned as coming but I don't recall the details.