by Franz von Holzhausen has headed Tesla’s design studio since 2008. Most of what people imagine when they hear the word Tesla came about thanks to him. The Model S is one of those cars, so it is quite logical that he received the most iconic version of the model—the Plaid Signature Edition, chassis #001, i.e., the very first car off the production line.
A unique example in safe hands
Before finally settling with the car that completes the Model S story, the designer brought it to the California workshop Unplugged Performance. This company is usually associated with wheels, brakes, films, and body kits, but it also does detailing. That’s where von Holzhausen went.
The body he designed more than a decade ago was left completely stock. No changes were made to the design. The goal was to preserve authenticity and protect the paintwork from time.
Preserving his own work
Since the car was brand new, the first step was a thorough chemical cleaning of the body. This removed dirt, transport residues, iron particles, and other contaminants that could have gotten onto the surface before delivery to the owner.
After preparation, Unplugged Performance specialists partially disassembled the car’s exterior elements. This was done so that the protective film would lay as evenly as possible, without any visible seams.
According to the workshop, the polyurethane film is a physical barrier that absorbs impacts from stones, scratches, and minor wear, protecting the factory paint. For Signature Edition #001, this was only the initial stage.
Ceramic coating and glass protection
After a thorough inspection under special lighting, the craftsmen applied full ceramic coating to all panels and decorative elements. It adds hydrophobic properties, repels dirt, makes washing easier, and makes the color depth more pronounced.
Finally, all glass surfaces were covered with a film that blocks 99% of ultraviolet radiation and 98% of infrared heat. This is especially important for California, where the sun can quickly ruin the interior’s appearance. Thanks to this protection, the interior should remain in perfect condition for many years.
The farewell Model S series
The Tesla Model S Plaid Signature Edition appeared this year as a farewell special edition of the legendary model. Only 250 units are planned in total. They are offered by special invitation to select customers. The price is $159,420 per car.
Like the regular Plaid, the Signature Edition uses a tri-motor setup with 1,020 horsepower, which equals 761 kilowatts or 1,034 horsepower in the European measurement system. But the main feature is the unique styling details.
These include the signature Garnet Red color, gold emblems, special badges, and 21-inch Velarium wheels. On inspection, the gold brake calipers immediately catch the eye, complementing the carbon-ceramic brakes. The interior features white Alcantara, a yoke steering wheel, and Signature branding.
Previous experience with Model 3
This is not the first time von Holzhausen has brought his personal car to Unplugged Performance. Previously, he already brought his Model 3 there. At that time, coilovers, anti-roll bars, adjustable suspension arms, and carbon-ceramic brakes were installed on the car. The body was also left unchanged then.
This approach says a lot about the designer’s philosophy: he does not try to redo his own creations, but rather tries to preserve them as they were originally. This is especially important in the case of the Model S, which has become a true icon of modern electric vehicle manufacturing. Signature Edition #001 is now not just a car—it is a piece of Tesla’s history, carefully protected from the very beginning.
