Tesla announces 'world's quickest production car'

Tesla has announced a new P100D version of its all-electric Model S sedan, which it claims is the world's quickest production car.

Its more powerful 100kWh battery pack is said to propel the large Model S four-door to 100km/h in 2.7 seconds in 'Ludicrous Speed' mode – down from three seconds for the existing Model S P90D flagship with Ludicrous option.

Tesla says that makes it second only to million-dollar, limited-edition two-seat hypercars like the LaFerrari and Porsche 918 Spyder in terms of standing-start acceleration.

Tesla makes no mention of the discontinued Bugatti Veyron Super Sport, which can hit 100km/h in 2.5 seconds, or the Ariel Atom V8, which can do it in 2.3 seconds, although neither car is available in Australia.

Despite its extra performance, the same upgraded battery pack is said give the five-seat Model S P100D an NEDC driving range of 613km – up from 509km for the P90D.

Fitted to the heavier new Model X crossover, which can seat up to seven, the more powerful battery is claimed to allow the SUV to hit 100km/h in 3.1 seconds and drive up to 542km between recharges.

The standard Model X P90D flagship with Ludicrous upgrade claims 3.4-second 0-100km/h acceleration and a 467km driving range.

US customers who have purchased but not yet received their Model S or Model X P90D model with Ludicrous Mode can have their cars upgraded to P100D Ludicrous Mode spec for $US10,000 ($A13,000).

Existing owners of P90D model with Ludicrous Mode can upgrade their vehicle to P100D Ludicrous Mode spec for $US20,000 ($A26,000) including battery recycling.

Tesla's new 100kWh battery will only be offered in Performance and Dual Motor form with the Ludicrous Speed Upgrade (P100D with Ludicrous mode).

Tesla Australia has confirmed the availability of the Model S P100D here from next year, but with options it will likely cost more than $300,000.

The top-shelf Model S P90D sedan is currently priced at $208,344 drive-away, while a new entry-level Model S 60 opens the range at $114,104 drive-away (in NSW).

Meantime, first deliveries of the Model X, which made its Australian debut today in Sydney, will take place next year, including P100D versions.

Some early-birds who ordered the Signature launch edition may take delivery late this year and Australian customers who order their Model X now will take delivery in the second quarter of 2017, says Tesla.

In Australia, the Model X is priced between $122,812 (60D) and $201,072 (P90D) plus on-road costs.