After much speculation, occasional leaked information and with some media hoopla thrown-in, Tesla has finally released all the details (except options' pricing) on their Model S, an electric family sedan that carries seven people and can travel up to 300 miles (460kms) per charge. The Model S will likely be the world's first mass-produced, highway-capable EV.
The standard Model S does 0-60mph (0-96kph)in under six seconds and will have a top speed of 130mph, with sport versions expected to achieve 0-60 mph acceleration in under five seconds.
A single-speed gearbox delivers smooth acceleration and responsive handling. A 17-inch touchscreen computer interface, with in-car 3G connectivity, allows passengers to listen to Pandora Radio or consult Google Maps, or check their state of charge remotely from their iPhone or laptop.
The Model S carries its charger onboard and can be recharged from any 120V, 240V or 480V outlet, with the latter taking only 45 minutes. The floor-mounted battery pack is designed to be swapped out in less time than it takes to fill a gas tank, allowing for the future possibility of battery-pack swap stations.
"Tesla is relentlessly driving down the cost of electric vehicle technology, and this is just the first of many mainstream cars we're developing," said Tesla CEO, Chairman and Product Architect Elon Musk.
Tesla expects to start Model S production in late 2011. The anticipated base price of the Model S is $49,900 after a federal tax credit of $7,500. It is estimated to cost around $5 to drive 230 miles (370kms) versus around $38 (at $4 a gallon, $1.06 a liter) for an equivalent sized conventional gas-powered sedan so the Tesla S price premium is likely to be recouped by much lower annual motoring costs. The company has not released options pricing.
Visit: http://www.teslamotors.com/
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