Tag Archives: GTX

GAS2: TESLA REMOVES PERFORMANCE-LIMITING SOFTWARE

By: NICOLAS ZART on January 20, 2017
Original Article: GAS2.ORG; Feature Photo: Arthur St. Antoine

Tesla Removes Performance-Limiting Software From Model S & Model X

Elon Musk in 2012 Tesla Model S
Elon Musk in 2012 Tesla Model S

Tesla is removing performance-limiting software from its Model S and Model X. You didn’t know about the software at all? If not, you’re not the only one, but I’ll update you.

More importantly, though, has Tesla solved the overheating issues that restrict power output?

And does this mean we can finally race a Model S on a track?

Not really.

Tesla Removes its Performance-Limiting Software

Before you inundate Tesla Motors with questions, note that this specific software limits the power output according to how many times it considers you have full-open-throttle accelerated the Model S and X. The ramifications and implications are many for Tesla and the automotive industry at large, which has been suffering from ethical business decisions.

As of now and according to Tesla’s President of Global Sales and Service, Jon McNeil, from our friends at Teslarati, the performance-limiting software will be removed from the Model S and Model X via the usual over-the-air software update.

New Tesla Model S jets to 60 mph
New Tesla Model S jets to 60 mph

The story erupted on the Tesla Motors Club (TMC) forum in recent weeks, where McNeil admitted the company was limiting the performance of some of its Model S and Model X in order to protect them from excessive wear and tear. Fair enough, but it wasn’t clear if the wear and tear are part of the rolling stock or the thermal management system of the battery and controller.

One of the reasons the Model S hasn’t been raced successfully so far is you can only use its full power for the first lap or so. Things drastically change in the second lap. The battery and controllers heat up. The car deliberately lowers its performance output, eventually to a crawl. We witnessed this clearly a few years ago when Steve Saleen was developing his own version of a performance Model S, the Four Sixteen, which we covered here. The racing restrictions were the overheating of the components and battery pack. Steve assured us he overcame that restriction eventually. Our initial test drives around an undisclosed California race track were convincing for a start.

However, racing is one thing. Buying a $135,000 performance car for its impressive numbers only to have it throttle back in an undisclosed way is quite another.

Tesla Community Members Up In Arms

CEO Elon Musk, center, with CTO J.B. Straubel, left, and Chief Designer Franz von Holzhausen watch as Tesla launched the Model S, at their factory in Fremont, Calif., on Friday, June 22, 2012. The event marked the start of its Fremont assembly line and, the company hopes, eventual entry into the mass market with its revolutionary electric car. (Patrick Tehan/Staff)
CEO Elon Musk, center, with CTO J.B. Straubel, left, and Chief Designer Franz von Holzhausen watch as Tesla launched the Model S, at their factory in Fremont, Calif., on Friday, June 22, 2012. The event marked the start of its Fremont assembly line and, the company hopes, eventual entry into the mass market with its revolutionary electric car. (Patrick Tehan/Staff)

Members of Tesla community didn’t react well to this performance-limiting software infringement on the Model S’s stated performance. A few threads on the company’s forum highlighted that the overuse of Tesla’s Launch Mode feature throttles back the Ludicrous Model S’s performance. But the issue got worse when P85D and P85 owners, post Ludicrousmode, reported the same problem on their Model S, which were not Ludicrous. It eventually culminated when other owners reported the same restrictions in Launch and Max Power modes.

What was brought to light eventually was that Tesla used an algorithm that counted how many times the cars were driven with open throttle without stating it. It would then throttle back performance, sometimes reducing the overall horsepower by as much as 100 HP. Since the claimed performance of the Model S and X wasn’t met over and over and was highlighted on Tesla’s forum, the company discreetly added a disclaimer to its online Design Studio confirming the limiting software. Tesla wasn’t upfront and took a lot of heat from some of its owners. This is something the company can’t afford to do. Here’s why:

Now What?

Tesla is very adept at making its client handle marketing, while other carmakers rely on huge budgets. What can it do when it gets caught with numbers that don’t match the claimed performance?

Unlike other carmakers that spend millions of dollars on a monthly base, Tesla doesn’t officially have a marketing department, in the traditional automotive sense. Handling negative publicity is crucial. Tesla owners are notoriously technically savvy and bleeding-edge adopters. It doesn’t take much for them to realize numbers and performance don’t add up. Selling these people a product that doesn’t work as advertised is extremely dangerous. Undisclosed performance-limiting software is a mistake that Tesla must avoid at all costs, considering the scandals VW and other carmakers are currently facing. While not technically the same issue, stating one thing and acting contrary in an undisclosed way is a slippery slope. Rightfully, Tesla kept the performance-limiting software story internal and away from the news.

But what about racing? Does that mean we can now race a Model S? Not so fast. The car is still throttled back it heats up around a race track. It’s understandable. Tesla didn’t design your car for racing. We’ll have to wait for the Electric GT (EGT) Championship series to tackle that.

The moral questions are more along the lines of what if you purchase a certified pre-owned Performance Model S or X? Does it mean you will be even more throttled than buying a brand new one? Are you going to be “paying for” the consequences of the previous driver when the company sells you a used car?

Consequences and Conclusion

These are serious learning lessons for Tesla. After the VW diesel scandal, carmakers know they can’t withhold information and claim the contrary. This hinders on federal crime laws and no one wants to go that route, especially the financially fragile Tesla Motors company.

It takes an entire society to accept de facto norms imposed on it. It only takes a few vocal people to stop and sometimes reverse the process. Case in this point, thanks to Tech_Guy in the Tesla owners community, McNeil was forced to acknowledge the performance limiting software by writing:

“Based on your input, we have decided to remove all software performance reductions tied to frequent max power usage. These changes will roll out with our next software update (in about three weeks).

We had put these reductions in place to proactively protect the powertrain from wear and tear. Instead, we will monitor the condition of the powertrain and let our customers know if service is needed so that we can take proactive steps, such as by replacing parts if necessary, to maintain the vehicle’s performance.”

The conclusion is simple, bordering simplistic. Ethics are mostly interpretations based on a solid bedrock. Our political world in shamble only reflects our society subconscious and acts as a shadow self. Tesla is the darling of the EV community. It can’t afford to say one thing and hinder performance. This is something the automotive industry at large is learning the hard way.

[Source: GAS2]

SEMA 2015: SALEEN GTX ELECTRIC CAR

By: TREVOR FREEMAN on May 26, 2016
Original Article: GENERATIONHIGHOUTPUT.COM

Saleen GTX @ SEMA
Saleen GTX @ SEMA

How do you tune an electric car? The American car manufacturer Saleen has found a way. Based in Corona, California, Saleen is most famous for their performance-upgraded Mustangs and Camaros. The decision to give the “Saleen treatment” to an all-electric car is certainly an interesting one.

The company starts with a Tesla Model S sedan and adds custom front and rear bumpers, which will set you apart from the thousands of other Teslas on the road. It’s not just aesthetics, the larger front grille allows for more airflow to help the car’s cooling system. There’s also an aero hood, side skirts, rear diffuser, and a high-downforce rear spoiler.

Whereas the OEM Tesla Model S has seating for 5 adults, plus an optional 3rd row seat for kids, the Saleen GTX uses a 2+2 layout. The interior has also been upgraded with premium leather and suede materials.

The Saleen GTX is not just a Tesla with some new clothing; there are some serious performance upgrades going on as well. From the Saleen website:

“Propelling the new GTX is the 3-phase, four pole AC induction motor and copper rotor with the upgraded Saleen drivetrain including an all-new 11.39:1 final gear ratio for quicker acceleration. Also new for the GTX is a Saleen specific MAXGRIP locking differential that allows each wheel to efficiently apply rotational force and maximize traction and grip in performance environments.” The company uses proprietary programming to give the car a “High Performance Calibration,” though details about that are scarce.

Saleen GTX @ SEMA
Saleen GTX @ SEMA

Besides the drivetrain upgrades, there are larger 14″ vented disc brakes, 21″ or 22″ wheels with high-performance tires, and a Saleen S4 suspension that includes anti-sway bars, specific rate springs, and Saleen shocks and struts. As a finishing touch, Saleen upgraded cooling system with a larger volume radiator, a high-flow water pump, and upsampled cooling fans. The combination of all these mods results in a car that looks and performs better than when it left the factory.

As with any car (and particularly with electric cars), it all comes down to the numbers. How does this compare to a Tesla Model S?

Well, a fully optioned-out P90D will run you $134,250 and puts out 463 hp (532 hp in Ludicrous mode). The Saleen GTX weighs in at $165,000 according to Automobile Mag for the 691 hp version. To be fair, the P90D price is the actual cash price, not counting any Federal Tax Credits or gas savings.

I think the idea of performance tuning electric cars is one that will continue to grow in popularity as a growing number of people begin to make the switch to EVs.

Body and Exterior
Redesigned Front Fascia for Improved Airflow
Functional V-Shape Aero Hood
Functional Rear Diffuser
Side Skirts with Carbon Fiber Trim
High Downforce Spoiler

Performance
11.39:1 Final Gear Ratio
MAXGRIP Locking Differential
Saleen High Performance Calibration
Larger Volume Radiator
High Flow Water Pump
Upsampled Cooling Fans

Wheels and Brakes
21″ or 22″ wheels
High performance ZR tires
14″ vented disc brakes or carbon ceramic brakes

Suspension and Handling
Upgraded “S4” Suspension
Anti-Sway Bars
Saleen Shocks and Struts
Specific Rate Springs

Interior
2+2 layout
Premium leather and Alcantara suede materials


About Trevor Freeman
Trevor is a real gearhead who loves everything from classic American muscle cars to high-performance exotics. When he’s not reading about cars or taking photos at a car show, he’s probably out cruising around. He is currently working on restoring a 1977 Chevrolet Monte Carlo coupe with his friends.

WHAT IS GOING ON WITH SALEEN AUTOMOTIVE

By: URIAH NAZARIO on August 21, 2015
Original Article: GEARHEADS.ORG

There seems to be a haze in the air when it comes to Saleen and what is happening to the iconic car company. Some think that the company is selling off the assets to their 15-year-old S7, and that this is a sign of the company having financial troubles and that it is soon to fold. Or that the company just isn’t what it use to be. So in order to clear things up, I drove out to tour their facility and see for myself what the heck was going on.

2015 Saleen 302 Black Label Supercharged
2015 Saleen 302 Black Label Supercharged

When I arrived at Saleen’s headquarters I was greeted by a welcoming staff that was more than happy to let me tour and question staff members as much as I wanted to. I questioned everyone from the mechanics wrenching on a Supercharger to their lead mechanical engineer, Steve Saleen and everyone else in-between. Here is what I found out.

Saleen S5S Raptor Concept
Saleen S5S Raptor Concept

The company is performance driven in every sense, in the fact that Mr. Saleen allows his team to use the latest in technology in order to achieve results. Use of 3D printing, carbon fiber, carbon ceramics on an industrial level as well as the latest in design and engineering software lead me to believe that we will see a heavy use of state-of-the-art racing components in cars to come. Sven the lead-engineer is an engineer with an engineering background with Porsche and Fiskar and has a knowledge of electrical components making me curious as if a KERS system may be supportive of the in house twin turbo mid-engine mayhem that is being constructed. A secured area where Saleen is currently working on an American Supercar was the only “off-limits” area I couldn’t poke my nose in. Although they wouldn’t allow my curious self to enter this restricted area, I did get to sit down and talk with Steve Saleen and his lead engineer Sven Etzelsberger about the project car and future projects.

Saleen S7 Competition
Saleen S7 Competition

Steve told me that his new project would bring the Supercar spotlight to America and his company would build a mid-engine car to rival anything on the road today. Now that is a bold statement that shows he is working on something legendary. Well guess what, legendary vehicles in this day & age take massive amounts of engineering, research and development especially when built in-house and all that comes at a price.

Yes the company needs funds, every company does and you have to not only raise capital to build such a monster but to also test it and perfect it and get through the litany of Californian “red tape.” The Saleen company has been troubled with financial woes and had a sort of corporate coup d’é·tat in the past just like every auto manufacturer, yet the company still remains to not only be in business but to be spearheading a successor to the iconic S7 with Steve back in the captain’s seat.

Here is the deal, I have grown up watching and drooling over Saleens and the S7 is one of my all time favorites. I want this company to not only maintain it’s legacy but to thrive. Am I biased, probably but it is because I have seen what this company can accomplish when given the benefit of the doubt. Steve Saleen has a very capable team with a long list of past accomplishments and stands for all things GearHead so yes I have to say that I wish the company well and hope to test out future cars the way his lead engineer and I did, when we stole Steve Saleen’s personal GTX and did burnouts in it. (Sorry Steve).


Uriah Nazario
If you are easily offended and like to comment about how your feelings are hurt then you won’t like my style of writing. I speak my mind (which is deranged) and yes it is often offensive. I am open for debate but not whining. I appreciate all my readers and hope my articles put a smile on your face.


Click here to participate in the discussion.

[Source: Gearheads]

SALEEN GTX TESLA DREW CROWDS AT FORMULA-E EVENT

ALL-ELECTRIC SALEEN WAS A FAN FAVORITE IN LONG BEACH

CORONA, CA–(Marketwired – Apr 6, 2015) – Saleen Automotive Inc. (OTCQB: SLNN) This past weekend, FIA’s Formula-E series made a stop in Long Beach, CA. Drawing racing and environmentally conscious fans alike, the popular new series proves that electric vehicles are more than a fad.

Coming off a successful launch of their new vehicle, Saleen Automotive was in attendance at the event in downtown Long Beach. Displaying their GTX to the hordes of electric vehicle enthusiasts, the car was a hit with the crowd. Along with displaying his version of the Tesla Model S, Steve Saleen gave a presentation on the future of electric vehicles to the Tesla Club of LA.

“The future of electric vehicles is very exciting,” asserted Steve Saleen at the presentation, “with mavericks in the industry like Tesla and BMW it is no wonder electric vehicle sales are skyrocketing.”

According to CNN Money, Tesla had record sales in the first quarter of 2015. “If there was any time to be getting into the electric vehicle market, that time would be now,” remarked Saleen.

The popularity of the Saleen GTX also proves that electric vehicle owners want to set their vehicles apart. “We get almost as many calls about our GTX performance parts as we do our 302 parts,” stated Molly Saleen, VP of Saleen’s Retail division. “Tesla owners love the fact that a name like Saleen is offering them performance and styling for their vehicles.”

Saleen offers two versions of the GTX, a 380 horsepower, rear-wheel drive version as well as the much-publicized 691 horsepower, all-wheel drive version. More information on this and all of Saleen’s vehicles and performance parts can be found online at saleen.com or by calling them at (800) 888-8945.

About Saleen Automotive, Inc.
Saleen is an American specialty manufacturer of high performance vehicles, technical performance parts, lifestyle accessories and apparel. Founder Steve Saleen has continually set the bar for automotive design and performance engineering in both street and racing applications. Saleen plans to utilize its existing strategic partnerships and dealer network to refine its design and engineering prowess, continue development of emerging automotive technologies, and expand its presence nationwide with a combination of automotive retail services, aftermarket parts and new vehicle sales to build significant long-term value. Learn more at www.saleenautomotive.com.

[Source: Saleen Automotive]