March 13, 2025 – We recognize the heroic contributions of all dogs who have served in the military, law enforcement, and search and rescue for National K9 Veterans Day.
Image Courtesy of the Warrior Dog Foundation – Source: Warrior Dog Foundation K9 Stories
It is an incredible day and it is dogs like Dargo, a handsome and large Dutch Shepherd who retired in September 2019 that make the Warrior Dog Foundation a special organization. Before retirement, Dargo served as an explosive detection canine at one of America’s busiest International Airport. He was chosen for this role because of his special sense of smell and his ability to detect even the smallest differences in scents, even while working in busy environments with lots of distractions.
Image Courtesy of the Warrior Dog Foundation – Source: Warrior Dog Foundation K9 Stories.
And Nico, a MPC Navy SEAL who is a perfect example of a success story. Nico served in the United States Navy Special Ops Community and served two tours in the middle east. Nico’s commitment to our country saved countless human lives, provided a security that simply cannot be replicated, and is vital to the success of special ops missions. Eventually, MPC Nico spent almost 4 years at the Warrior Dog Foundation adjusting from an operational environment into retirement before reuniting with his former handler and his forever home. Nico and former handler US Navy SEAL Taylor have been seen raising awareness for the Warrior Dog Foundation on the NASCAR track.
Speaking of the Warrior Dog Foundation, earlier this year, the Unplugged Performance team stopped by to visit our good friend Richard Ryan (@Fullmag) who is a huge advocate of the foundation—an incredible initiative founded to help transition our country’s working K9s from an operational environment into retirement. Providing mental and physical rehabilitation, and rehoming options to Military Working Dogs (MWD), Contract Working Dogs (CWD) and Law Enforcement K9s that otherwise would be euthanized.
However, we didn’t just get to learn more about the amazing things happening at the Warrior Dog Foundation, we, of course, got to witness his custom Unplugged Performance Tesla Model S Plaid S-APEX.
THE BUILD
Uniquely commissioned to Richard’s tastes and tuned for his maximum enjoyment, this Tesla Model S Plaid S-APEX best suits his lifestyle. This S-APEX taps into Dark Helmet’s parts with an ultimate upgrade of UP suspension parts all dedicated to provide performance with precision, control, and engagement to the driver. It boasts our 19-piece full carbon fiber kit that widens the Tesla Model S Plaid by 80mm.
Unplugged Performance custom vinyl wrap
With the work from our AutoSpa team, we were able to custom make a vinyl wrap that best presented Richard and his support for the Warrior Dog Foundation and Full Mag.
Unplugged Performance 19-piece Carbon Fiber Wide-Body kit
With every S-APEX build, a 19-piece carbon fiber body kit is installed. Designed for both aerodynamics and aggressive styling, our lightweight yet ultra-strong kit includes an integrated Koenigsegg Advanced Manufacturing aerodynamic shark fin at the front wheels, extended rocker panels, sculpted fender flares to widen the Model S by 80mm and more carbon. Every piece enhances airflow, performance, and road presence while maintaining Tesla’s sleek design.
Carbon fiber and Cordura® interior
When it came to the car’s interior, Richard wanted it to look factory but it also needed to withstand the wear and tear of traveling with dogs. Understanding this challenge, we took a collaborative approach to create the perfect solution. After discussing materials, we landed on the rugged Cordura®, a material that we found blended durability but also upheld our premium aesthetic standards. Known for its rugged toughness, Cordura resists scratches, dirt, and wears far better than traditional materials. And of course, we had to sprinkle in some carbon fiber accents to really bring out a luxury feeling when Richard and his passengers are inside.
Source: FullMag YouTube Channel
21” UP-03 Forged Wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires
In the wheel department, this Model S Plaid is graced with a set of 21 Inch UP-03 lightweight forged wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, developed & engineered specifically for this application. This wheel setup nicely complements the aggressive nature of the exterior wrap but also work in the car’s favor by removing unsprung weight, as these are lighter than the OEM setup found on this vehicle.
Unplugged Performance Superlight Carbon Ceramic Front Big Brake Kit (BBK)
The carbon ceramic front big brake kit (BBK) installed on this Model S Plaid ensures that this Apex Predator can move and move fast without any worries about its braking system, resulting in increased driver confidence, usability, later braking, and improved braking performance. When Richard takes this car for a run, the brake system provides improved efficiency and reliable and repeatable stopping from high freeway speeds.
Unplugged Performance forged suspension arms
Regarding suspension upgrades, this Model S Plaid features our complete UP Model S Suspension Package upgrade. In total, these upgrades allow for improved cornering grip, stability, and control.
Custom fabricated Impact Crate working dog box
To create a fully functional and seamless dog transport system, Richard worked with Huhney Bee Fabrication and Impact Dog Crates® to design a custom dog box.
Some other upgrades that allow Richard to have fun by going 0-Braaaaaap in 1.9 seconds
Please have a detailed look at this bespoke Model S Plaid S-APEX “Predator” in the media gallery below:
