Tesla Model S-Apex Plaid for Joe Rogan

Jan 23, 2025

By Unplugged Performance

Unplugged Performance (UP) offers bespoke automotive creations for discerning Tesla enthusiasts that push the boundaries of luxury and performance beyond the mass-produced platform available from Tesla. Today, UP delivered the latest S-APEX commission for the world’s leading podcast voice, none other than Joe Rogan.

This one-of-one build blends the best of Unplugged Performance’s engineering expertise with Joe’s vision for a perfect blend of class and aggression that can be driven daily. The result is a car that’s as striking in appearance as it is in craftsmanship and performance.

Take a look around the car in a little more detail here.

Let’s take a deep dive into what makes this build so exceptional:

THE BUILD

Joe Rogan’s S-APEX build embodies everything the S-APEX vehicle comes with: a product designed to maximize the performance potential of the Tesla Model S plaid while stroking the flames of visceral excitement from piloting such a fast and capable machine, carefully detailed hand assembly approach.

CARBON FIBER EXTERIOR AND LIGHTWEIGHT UP-03 FORGED WHEELS

With all S-APEX cars, the exterior has every single extensive carbon fibre feature that a build of this magnitude should have. A 19-piece prepreg carbon fibre widebody kit that increases the width of the vehicle by 80mm. Inside those widened fenders are our notoriously lightweight and damn near indestructible UP-03 forged monoblock wheels measuring 21×10” in front and 21×11.5” in the rear, paired with 285/30 and 305/30 Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires front and rear.

The carbon fibre rocker panels include an integrated Koenigsegg Advanced Manufacturing aerodynamic shark fin at the front wheels to control airflow around the massive front wheel arches. Additional upgrades for the latest version include integrated dry carbon fibre brake ducts at the front and a full dry carbon fibre hatchback with an integrated rear spoiler for reduced weight and further improved aerodynamics.

STRIKING JUXTAPOSITION OF CARBON AGAINST UNIQUE WHITE EXTERIOR BLEND

Being unique does not always mean being loud. Joe’s S-APEX is custom painted in a subtle blue pearl white and completed with XPEL Stealth Paint Protection Film for a durable satin finish. The multi-stage paint that UP mixed to spray the exterior gives up rich blues, greens, and golds to the viewer depending on the light.

The custom-woven carbon fibre in UP’s signature large weave also appears glossy black from afar but glints with bright silvers and gold threads under the sunlight, providing the eyes more and more to appreciate as the viewer gets closer to the vehicle. The end result is a fully custom build both inside and out, both subdued and expressive that suits Joe’s needs and unique depth of personality.

HIGH-TECH CUSTOM MADE MATERIALS STITCHED TO PERFECTION BY HAND

For this vehicle, a new material was developed to reskin the interior. A unique shade of Alpine White was bespoke manufactured in Banbū leather by von Holzhausen material scientists. The stunning sustainable leather wraps Tesla’s latest next-generation Plaid sport seats in high-tech luxury. The heated and cooled seats that grip the driver with improved bolstering make the newest S-APEX Plaid even more suited for trackwork while improving around-town comfort. The intricate stitchwork applies a craftsman’s touch to enliven the interior while keeping to the sleek, monochromatic modern aesthetic.

PRACTICAL PERFORMANCE AND ROAD PRESENCE

Given the challenges of navigating the ranches of Texas, the S-APEX sits high enough to tackle challenging direct roads and is beefed up with intricately developed custom suspension pieces that improve the feel of handling and driving. Unplugged Performance forged billet suspension arms are featured at every corner. To harness the prodigious power of the Plaid, a UP Big Brake Kit with Carbon Ceramic Front and Rear brakes that tuck under UP-03 Forged Wheels and Superlight Wheel Nuts. These upgrades improve handling, acceleration, and braking while maintaining ride quality and practicality. The result is supercar capability with zero compromises for the ultimate daily driving experience.

THIS IS JOE ROGAN’S VISION

Joe has always communicated his love for his Tesla Model S Plaid and his support for Unplugged Performance, but it was a whole new ballgame to finally be able to build a car for the man himself. When he notified UP that he wanted us to build him an S-APEX, the team was excited, to say the least.

The build process was highly collaborative, with Joe actively involved in the design decisions. His passion for the project was evident, as we exchanged ideas frequently to ensure every detail matched his vision. Throughout the process, his feedback and appreciation fuelled the team. Joe’s acknowledgment of our work in his podcast episodes with people like Elon Musk and Chris Harris only added to the honor of creating this custom vehicle for him.

Joe Rogan’s search for knowledge and open-mindedness to learning are admirable. It was an honour to work together finally. Joe’s enthusiasm for the Tesla Model S and his excitement about this build have been incredibly rewarding for our team.

Watch the handover video of this amazing car to Joe here.

FAQ

Got questions? Maybe these answers can help!

Why modify my Tesla?

There’s no single answer to that! Much of the world of car modification revolves around the reality that a mass-produced car, built to a competitive price, has to be a compromise in some way to all of us.

Whether you are looking for daily-driving comfort, upgraded replacement parts for a high-mileage car or looking to join the increasing number of Tesla owners enjoying the immense capabilities of their car on track days, autocross, hillclimbs and sprints, our range has something for every Tesla owner.

Many people start off by simply needing to replace failing parts on their Tesla (very typically worn out suspension arms/bushes), but can see the error in choosing factory replacement arms that are certain to fail again in future. Or worse, the false economy of choosing cheap Far-Eastern copy parts that are of unknown quantity when it comes to durability and indeed safety. But with the longevity that a Tesla drivetrain offers us, it makes more sense than ever to invest in quality replacement parts on the chassis side and take a longer-term view of ownership as the mileage increases.

Others aren’t looking for improved performance. Rather, it's our Luxury suspension offerings, or the growth in ‘overland’ upgrades that are fully capable of heading off the beaten track that are of interest. For these customers, it’s the certain knowledge that their car can be better for their needs than mass-production can ever allow.

So many of our customers simply love the performance of their Tesla – often the fastest car they’ve ever owned. But for those that have come from a performance ICE car, they can feel that the Tesla’s chassis and braking capabilities still have some room for improvement to match the straight-line go.

Whatever your reasons and motivations, jump in to the world of modifying your Tesla without any concerns, and let us help you tailor the perfect Tesla for you.

Do you install parts?

No, we don't provide a fitting service. All Unplugged Performance parts are designed and manufactured in a way that any competent professional can install our parts on your Tesla - just the same as on any ICE car.

Have you checked our Fitting Guides? They are a very helpful resource for anyone carrying out this fitting service.

Of course, if you have any more questions about fitting, please don't hesitate to Contact Us.

Do you ship overseas?

Yes, we do. Although we are predominantly UK-based, we serve customers all over Europe and sometimes beyond.

Click on the currency button in the header to see prices in €Euros.

Shipping costs will apply, and will be added at checkout. If your country doesn't have shipping calculated, please Contact Us and we'll get a competitive quote for you.

Please note: local taxes and duties may apply when you import products into your country which will be your responsibility.

A product is showing as 'None available from UK stock'. What does this mean?

We do our best to hold as much inventory here in the UK as possible. But of course, sometimes products go out of stock.

Or in the case of certain specialist parts or our wheel range, where there are multiple sizes, colours and configurations these are often manufactured to order in the USA.

So, orders that show as 'None available from UK stock' will be sourced from our team at Unplugged Performance in California. You may go ahead and place your order and we will get it ordered from USA and update you with expected delivery date.

Although you may prefer to Contact Us first, and we can give a best estimate on likely delivery time.

How long will it take to get my orders?

It depends on where you are. Orders for the UK will be processed immediately and typically take 5-7 business days to arrive.

Overseas deliveries can take anywhere from 7-16 days. Delivery details will be provided in your confirmation email.

However, if a product shows as being unavailable from UK stock, we will need to source from the Unplugged Performance USA team in California. In this case we will let you know the expected delivery times as soon as possible.

Of course, if you'd like to Contact Us first, we can always confirm timing estimates before you place your order.

How can I find Fitting Instructions?

We have fitting guides for many of our most popular products.

Please check out Fitting Guides for our list of useful installation resources.

What about warranty?

We are entirely confident in our products, and offer a 12-month warranty against defects or design faults within fair use.

If your Tesla is still under manufacturers warranty, please be aware that fitting aftermarket parts may affect the Tesla terms and conditions - although only for those mechanical elements relating to the fitment of our products.