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One of the troubles with a purely electric vehicle is the fact that most of them are on the expensive side. One such model is the Tesla Roadster, which is even more expensive because it is marketed as a sports car. However, Tesla has come up with a solution to the high price tag on their Roadster by way of the affordable Model S. Even though it is only in prototype right now, Tesla unveiled a Model S at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in early 2010. An earlier prototype was unveiled last year at the Frankfurt Auto Show in Germany. By affordable, I mean in the price range of a BMW or a Lexus, but it’s still better than a $100,000 USD price tag. Let’s see what the Model S may soon offer in the coming year or so.
Electric Buzz
The high profile design of the Tesla Model S in reminiscent of a BMW or a Lexus, but it is truly unique due to the fact that it sports a rather stylish, yet futuristic design befitting an electric auto. One of the unique aspects of the Model S is the fact that the owner will have the ability to choose between three different power levels via a swappable battery module. The standard battery module (120 volt) can propel the Model S up to 160 miles on a single charge. The higher end battery modules will be able to carry the auto along for 230 (240 volts) and 300 (480 volt) miles, respectively. Chances are though that if you opt for an extended range battery module, you’ll end up paying a bit more.
The Model S doesn’t disappoint in terms of performance either, at least for an electric. It can zoom to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds using its one speed transmission and can hit a top speed of 120 mph. In order to effectively use this power, Tesla has fitted the Model S with a sporty suspension and chassis.
One problem that has plagued electrics is the fact that it can take quite a lot of time to charge up a battery after driving it around for a while. Tesla has remedied the issue with a 45 minute quick charge option, which will, at least in theory, fully charge the battery of your choice in just 45 minutes. Of course, it remains to be seen if this time frame is actually feasible (at current prices, it costs roughly $4 USD to charge). If you do not have time to charge up the battery and if you happen to have some extra cash sitting around, you can purchase an extra battery and have it installed in the Model S within five minutes on your own.
Practicality + Bells And Whistles
Another issue that the industry has struggled with when it comes to purely electric autos is the fact that they aren’t that big, which in turn leads to limited carry capacities and a lack of storage space. Tesla has managed to solve this issue with the Model S though, as it has room for up to five adults, plus two children. In regard to storage capability, the Model S comes with a unique rear hatch to fit large items in the rear of the auto. Plus, the rear seats fold down to make life easier as well. Finally, if you need even more storage, the Model S literally has a second trunk under the hood!
If you take a look at the Model S, probably one of the first things that you’ll notice is that is has a clear, glass roof. The plan is for the Model S to sport this roof when it comes time for mass production. Inside you’ll have the latest in technology, including a 17-inch touch screen that will allow you to control almost every aspect of the car. If that isn’t enough, the Model S will come with 3G connectivity, allowing you to surf the web or listen to internet radio.
Timeframe And Pricing
For those who are interested in taking a look at the Model S, you’ll have to wait a couple of years for this promising electric. The original plan was for the Model S to make an appearance at auto dealerships in mid-2011, but delays have pushed its release back to early 2012. As mentioned above, the pricing of the Model S is considerably less than the sporty Tesla Roadster, but it will still cost you a pretty penny. Depending on where you live, it will run around $57,400 USD, but with government tax credits in both Canada and the U.S., it could drop the price to around $50,000 USD. If that sounds like a bit much, Tesla is considering a leasing plan that would drop the price to around $37,000 USD.
Watch The Progress
If you are truly excited about the Model S, your best bet to obtain one or to check on its production status is to keep an eye on Tesla’s website (teslamotors.com).
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