Tesla design chief Franz von Holzhausen has taken a definitive stance on the end of an era by sending his personal Model S Plaid Signature Edition chassis 001 straight to Unplugged Performance for comprehensive protection rather than mechanical tuning.
After spending 18 years shaping the aesthetic direction of Tesla vehicles, von Holzhausen secured the very first unit of the exclusive 250-car run, a special vehicle priced from $159,420 that marks the final chapter of Model S production.
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SubscribeRather than exploiting the tri-motor setup on a dyno to push beyond its factory 1,020 horsepower, the veteran designer opted for a full-body preservation treatment handled by the Auto Spa team at Unplugged Performance's Hawthorne shop.
"The comprehensive protection system ensures the historical vehicle remains entirely untouched in its visual presentation while shielding the exterior from environmental wear," noted industry observers following the handoff.
Preserving History Over Chasing Extra Power
The vehicle features a striking Garnet Red paint job styled as a direct tribute to the original Signature Red from June 2012, complemented by unique gold badging, matching brake calipers, and a pristine white leather cabin.
The decision to prioritize preservation over modification highlights a growing appreciation for originality among top automotive creators and collectors alike.
Instead of adding aggressive aftermarket body kits or performance tweaks, the specialist team applied a multi-layered defense system consisting of full-body paint protection film and ceramic coating.
"Preserving the integrity of chassis 001 sends a clear message that this generation of flagship sedans has reached its design peak and deserves to be maintained as an untouched piece of automotive history," industry analysts state.