Image Credit: Tesla Motors Inc.
Tesla Motors Inc. will start shipping its newest model – the four-door Model S – next month, reports the Los Angeles Times. The company is scheduled to deliver the new electric cars to customers on June 22, nearly a full month before previously scheduled. Over 10,000 people have already ordered the Model S but only about 5,000 of them will take delivery of their car before the end of the year.
In a prepared statement today, Tesla CEO Elon Musk said that “in 2006 our plan was to build an electric sports car followed by an affordable electric sedan, and reduce our dependence on oil. Delivering Model S is a key part of that plan and represents Tesla’s transition to a mass-production automaker and the most compelling car company of the 21st century.” Last night, it was reported that Musk tweeted that the Model S had passed all its crash testing and received a five star rating.
The Model S is a full-electric vehicle, meaning it has no combustion engine and does not burn any gasoline. It has four doors, seats five adults, and will be offered with three battery options – 40 kWh, 60 kWh, 85 kWh – which deliver ranges of between 160 miles and 300 miles between charges and differences in acceleration and top speed. The 60 kWh battery, for example, will go from 0 to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds and will achieve a top speed of 120 mph. It recharges at a rate of 62 miles range per hour and can be plugged in anywhere there is a 240-volt outlet, standard 120-volt wall outlet, or a public charging station.
The Model S Signature model, priced between $87,900 and $97,900, will be the first version of the car delivered next month. The standard Model S starting at $49,900 will be available this fall.
[via the Los Angeles Times]
