To understand what makes a Tesla Model S P100D accompany the U-2 on its take-off and landing, we have to understand the design of this plane. Conceived towards the end of the 1950s during the Cold War, as a spy plane, taking photographs at high altitude — 70,000 feet, just over 21.3 km —, its entire design was justified in that sense. So at low altitude it wasn't, and it's not an easy plane.
With a huge wingspan and turning radius, a peculiar undercarriage, and unassisted controls, take-offs and landings are particularly sensitive. To make them safer, the Air Force began using cars to support these maneuvers, resorting to muscle cars, as they were the only ones to have the performance to go with it.
These “chase cars” transported another U-2 pilot, communicating via radio with the plane's pilot for possible alerts, and information such as altitude and angles, speed, among others.
Welcome to the 19th century XXI, where the U-2 is still in service, and the muscle car was replaced by a new performance monster, the Tesla Model S P100D. Its brutal acceleration capability makes it the ideal companion to accompany the U-2 up to its take-off speed of 185 km/h. The right car for the right job.
About the “Cold Start”. From Monday to Friday at Razão Automóvel, there is a “Cold Start” at 9:00 am. While you drink your coffee or gather the courage to start the day, keep up to date with interesting facts, historical facts and relevant videos from the automotive world. All in less than 200 words.