Driving on the track after a rain shower can be dangerous but not for our good friend Randy Pobst.
Instead, we found a short dry window and took the opportunity to perform a hot lap with our 2024 Tesla Model 3 Performance dedicated track car (Red Rocket) on the new “Circuit Track”.
The result? A 1:51.79.
The Unplugged Performance Tesla Model 3 Performance leverages the latest generation performance drive unit enabling to have more than 500 horsepower and a 0 to 60 mph in as little as 2.9 seconds. On top of this powertrain, Unplugged Performance added the following suspension upgrades: Street & Track Sway Bars, Race Pro Coilovers with Adaptive Suspension Canceller Kit, Camber and Toe Billet Arms, Front Upper Control Arms (FUCA) and CFD tested and trophy winning exterior engineered specifically for the 2024+ Tesla Model 3 Performance platform: Front Carbon Fiber Aero Kit (Consists of a Front Lip Spoiler, Front Racing Diffuser, Front Canards, and Deflectors), Rear Efficiency Trunk Spoiler, Rear Carbon Fiber Wing, Rear Carbon Diffuser and Spats. To finish the build, we used our resilient UP-03 Forged Wheels in a 18×10.9 squared configuration and choice of tires? The grippy and responsive Yokohama ADVAN A052 in 295/35R18.
What We Learned:
We learned a lot from this track. It’s a fun track with many straights to really push your car on. Speed builds up quickly on the straights so mind your braking zones. It’s easy to get carried away on the straights—expect speeds approaching 120–130 mph. This makes it crucial to stay disciplined on your braking points. Regenerative braking helps, but mechanical braking needs to be planned, especially before tight entries.
Banked Corners Add Confidence and Momentum
The banked turns are a highlight of the new circuit. They let you carry more speed than you’d expect, which feels rewarding in a low center-of-gravity EV like the Model 3. The added grip gives you the confidence to stay on throttle longer through the arc.
Turn 8 – A Technical Decreasing Radius Challenge
Turn 8 is a decreasing radius corner—easy to overshoot if you’re not patient. Trail braking helps here. It’s a corner that rewards smoothness and punishes late turn-ins. A good line here sets you up for a faster sector afterward.
Lastly, just have fun!
Take it slow — thermal management is key when you want to get out there and go for your personal best. The Highland Model 3 Performance can handle heat well, but you’ll still want to space out hot laps or pre-condition the battery if you’re planning back-to-back sessions. What’s great about the Buttonwillow Track is that the Superchargers are on site, so you can easily leave your car out to charge, enjoy some cars going quick on the 50’ straight away and chat with other fellow track goers. Who knows, you might end up bumping into Randy on the next one.
We have the FULL Hot Lap Youtube Video Here:
Did you know? Unplugged Performance is currently running a Wheel Trade-In Program!
We’re currently offering a $1000 rebate when you trade in your undamaged OEM 2026 Model Y or Cybertruck wheels and purchase a set of Unplugged Performance wheels or wheel and tire package. To qualify, wheels must be undamaged—free of bends, scratches, curbrash, or modifications—and include all factory covers and/or center caps.
Learn more here: https://unpluggedperformance.com/wheel-trade-in-program
Full Gallery below:
