This traditional car guy now understands the hype with EVs after taking a drive in the 2026 Tesla Model S Plaid.

EVs have become increasingly popular in the last decade for their fuel economy, futuristic designs, and instant torque. While some embrace the rise of the class, others are “stuck” in their legacy ways and refuse to embrace them into the car community.

Well, whether you like it or not, EVs will be around for the foreseeable future.

In a TikTok that’s generated over 21,100 views as of this writing, Parker Jones (@stangryafterdark) shares his recent experience driving the Tesla Model S Plaid and now may even consider getting one.

My friend is trying to convince me EVs are cool

In the TikTok, Jones’ friend Foster Mills recently bought a new 2026 Tesla Model S Plaid and wants to convince Jones that EVs are actually cool. 

“Alright Foster is going to try and turn me into an EV guy. He’s going to try and convince me that EVs are actually cool and that there is a place for them in the car community,” Jones begins.

“I won’t need to convince you,” Mills confidently replies.

Jones starts by analyzing the interior and is impressed with the design and how “carbon is everywhere.”

“It’s cozy and comfy,” Jones shares during the ride.

After this remark, Mills immediately hits the pedal which surprises Jones.

“Oh my god, I smacked the [expletive] out of my head,” Jones says.

Mills then continues to show the torque possible in the Tesla Model S Plaid. On an open highway, Mills slams the pedal and the car goes 0-120 in a matter of seconds. This left Jones speechless and there is no denying this acceleration speed and torque.

The torque is insane

To continue the EV pitch, Mills lets Jones take the car out for a spin himself.

In a follow up TikTok, Jones gets full reign of the Tesla Model S Plaid to experience the magic from the driver’s seat.

“Very nervous, not because I think I’m going to wreck it, it’s all wheel drive. I’m nervous because I think I’m going to like it, want one, and get roasted for wanting an EV,” Jones begins.

Jones has built quite the following for being a car guy and creating content around car maintenance stories. All of his content has revolved around traditional engined cars so embracing an EV is quite challenging for him.

“I’m a car guy with car videos on my page. I can’t do the EV stuff, this is against the religion,” Jones continues.

Jones displays the key card similar to a hotel room card is how you enter the Tesla Model S Plaid.

“The interior is pretty nuts, not going to lie,” Jones shares.

Jones then hits the road and is immediately thrown off by the yoke wheel. After completing a turn, Jones decides to see what the EV is made of. Jones puts the petal to the metal and is in disbelief at how fast the car accelerates.

“It just goes. There’s no shifting or delay. It’s all there,” Jones says.

At a stop light, Jones demonstrates the 0-100 capability of the Tesla Model S Plaid. In a matter of seconds, the EV quickly goes from 0-100 mph.

“It is so fast,” Jones shares.

Jones is thoroughly impressed by Tesla’s Model S Plaid torque, power, driving, and technology.

“I hate to say it, it’s such a sick car. I didn’t think I would but Foster I approve of this purchase,” Jones concludes.

Commenters shared their thoughts on the Tesla Model S Plaid

Viewers went to the comment section to validate the coolness of the Tesla and how haters have never driven one themselves.

“Tesla’s are valid, people just live to hate because it’s a trend,” one TikTok commenter shared.

“It’s 100% fun. I wouldn’t want one as my daily or only but as far as a side car yes it’s super cool,” another added.

“Everyone complaining about EV and Tesla specifically have never driven one. I sold my Porsche for a Tesla and I don’t regret it at all. Hard to go back to a regular car after,” a third replied.

While other commenters replied understanding if Jones ends up buying an EV after this experience.

“Definitely wouldn’t be mad if you get an EV,” one commenter added.

“He definitely wants one,” another speculated.

Why do EVs have so much torque?

EVs have “instant torque” because their electric motors can deliver full twisting force to the wheels the moment you press the accelerator. They don’t need to build up power like a gas engine does.

In a traditional car, the engine has to rev up and go through gears before it hits peak torque. But an electric motor spins directly and smoothly from zero RPM, so all that power is available right away. Which is why EVs can leap off the line with surprising speed even without a roaring engine.

This instant torque means EVs can easily accelerate from 0 to 60 in under 2 seconds.

MotorBiscuit contacted Parker Jones via Instagram direct message. The story will be updated if he replies.