Tesla could be set to confirm the release of updated versions of two of their most popular electric cars in a desperate bid to compete against European and Chinese brands. New versions of Tesla’s Model S Plaid and Model Y Performance have been seen hitting the iconic Nurburgring Nordschleife circuit for testing ahead of a possible future release.

The cars were painted in a light camouflage as they were put through their paces around the ‘Green Hell’ after a difficult start to 2025 for the EV giant. The Model S Plaid was sporting an aero-optimising refresh of its front and rear ends with updates to the vehicle's air ducts. Eagle-eyed car fanatics also spotted updates to the Plaid’s rear diffuser while the model was also fitted with an updated front end.

According to Autocar, The updated Model Y model is expected to be installed with the same dual-motor, four-wheel-drive powertrain as fitted in the Model 4.

This will see their latest model reach 510bhp, allowing motorists to zip away from 0-62mph in below four seconds. 

The model is also tipped for an interior facelift with the inclusion of sports seats and carbon-fibre trim detailing.

Tesla is facing strict competition from rival brands which is putting its position as the world’s leading EV firm under serious jeopardy.

Chinese brand BYD has started to outsell Tesla in Europe with a new wave of cheap electric models likely to be a threat.

Meanwhile, Chinese brand Nio’s sister firm Onvo has launched a model that looks identical to the Tesla Model Y for thousands cheaper in a major blow.

Closer to home, European luxury brands have also started to drip-feed models which could scupper Tesla’s advantage at the front of the field.

Mercedes-AMG is on the verge of building its own super-saloon which is likely to be capable of more than 1,000bhp.

Meanwhile, designs such as the Porsche Macan Turbo Electric and the Alpine A390 are all serious competitors.

Autocar has claimed that Tesla’s decision to test at the Nurburgring may not be a coincidence.

They suggest it could be a sign that Tesla is keen on winning back the EV lap record which it lost to Porsche last year.

Tesla’s Plaid was beaten by the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT which lapped the circuit 18 seconds faster.