FYI: Unplugged Performance’s Tesla Model S and Model 3 secure impressive finishes at the Gridlife Laguna Festival.
Unplugged Performance Teslas Dominate at Gridlife Laguna Seca
At the recent Gridlife Laguna Festival held at the acclaimed Weathertech Raceway Laguna Seca, Unplugged Performance made headlines with their formidable entries: the Tesla Model S Plaid, nicknamed "Dark Helmet," and a reengineered Model 3 Performance called "Red Rocket." These electric powerhouses took the event by storm, achieving a remarkable double podium finish, a rare feat in this competition.
Electric Entrants Shining in a Predominantly ICE Event
With fewer than five electric vehicles in the competition, the Unplugged Performance Teslas stood out at the Gridlife TrackBattle series, which combines practice sessions, qualifying rounds, and a final podium sprint. Dark Helmet, a member of the esteemed Pikes Peak sub-10-minute club, competed fiercely in the Unlimited Class, while Red Rocket showcased its prowess in the Street GT Class.
Unique Approach to EV Racing
Unplugged Performance’s vehicles broke the mold of traditional racecars. Despite featuring aggressive aerodynamics, Dark Helmet retained its stock Tesla drivetrain, battery, and software. This approach contrasts starkly with the heavily modified engines of typical internal combustion race vehicles.
Red Rocket, modified with Unplugged Performance’s Ascension-R parts, competed within Street GT restrictions on tire width and factory aero components. This Model 3 Performance was notably driven to the event from Los Angeles, proving its versatility as both a race and everyday vehicle — a testament to its driver Craig Coker’s aim for maximum performance and practicality.
Recording Breaking Podium Sprint
Both Teslas excelled during the podium sprint, overcoming challenges like Dark Helmet’s spin-out during a lap. Despite this, Dark Helmet managed a 1:28.465 lap, securing third place in the Unlimited Class. Meanwhile, Red Rocket clinched a second-place finish with a 1:35.666 lap in the Street GT Class, further establishing records for all-wheel-drive vehicles in both divisions.
Craig Coker expressed pride in the Teslas’ performances amid varied reactions from more traditional car enthusiasts. "When we show up to the track, we consistently set records or reach the podium, which is a rare achievement," Coker explained, emphasizing the integral role of a skilled and dedicated pit crew.
Celebrating Tesla’s Achievements
Unplugged Performance CEO Ben Schaffer lauded the team’s accomplishments, highlighting the reliability of Tesla engineering enhanced by Unplugged Performance parts. He commended the successful records set by their vehicles against a competitive roster of traditional ICE cars and emphasized the significance of this in advocating for EVs within motorsports.
Gearing Up for Future Races
Following their success at Laguna Seca, the Unplugged team has set sights on the upcoming Thunderhill race. With a strong performance, they could secure a championship title in the FCP Euro Pacific Championship, marking another milestone for electric vehicles in competitive racing.
Unplugged Performance continues to change the landscape of automotive racing, showcasing that Teslas, with innovative enhancements, can challenge and surpass conventional racecars. Their achievement is not just a win for the team but a victory for the progressive presence of electric vehicles on racetracks worldwide.
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Written by William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi
