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Tesla delivers first Model S a little early, EVs take a big step forward (update: video!)
Tesla had originally pegged the Model S' first delivery for June 22nd. At least one owner, though, is getting an early treat: one of venture capital firm Draper Fisher Jurvetson's namesake managing directors, Steve Jurvetson, just picked up his red-hued EV sedan in the San Francisco Bay Area. He can also rightfully claim to have the very first production Model S anywhere, as he's since posted photographic proof on Flickr that his car was the earliest to have completed the factory run. The arrival is no doubt a milestone for taking purely electric cars into the mainstream. Even so, we'll admit that we're just hoping Jurvetson shares what it's like to live with Tesla's four-door -- both out of curiosity as well as a vain attempt to live vicariously through someone who's had more than a test drive. Update: Sure enough, Jurvetson has posted video of the delivery, which you can catch after the break.
Tesla shows us how a Model S is made, tailors EVs to your exact liking online (video)
Tesla is just three weeks away from delivering the Model S, but that hasn't stopped it from getting more in-depth with the construction of its first four-door EV. The automaker's first peek behind the scenes shows us just how quickly it can make the aluminum body parts that make the electric sedan: a single part can be stamped out in just six seconds. If you'd rather get to ordering a Model S than watching it built, though, Tesla is about to kick off Design Studio, a new way to customize the company's EVs for orders. Build-and-price sites aren't anything new, although Tesla will be rare in eventually letting you pull the trigger online instead of having to plead with a dealer to place an order. Design Studio goes up this week, with full sales in a few months; new details of the Model S production process will go live every Tuesday if you need a steady intravenous drip of Tesla news.
Tesla CEO tweets that crash testing is complete, Model S production ready to roll
As the world awaits the arrival of Tesla's Model S, CEO Elon Musk has triumphantly tweeted (it was a busy night) that the car has passed all crash testing for a five star rating. The upshot, other than assuring prospective owners of their safety even if their limited edition ride gets dinged, is that cars can be built for sale and the first customer deliveries are scheduled for June 22nd -- just ahead of the original July projections. We've already had seat time in the sporty sedan, and if predictions hold, about half of the 10,000 who have preordered so far should get their shot in 2012, before production ramps up to 20,000 units in 2013. With a pricetag of up to $77,400 it may be time to make sure your financing is in order, although we're sure there others on the list who wouldn't mind moving up one bit. While you're counting down to the arrival of your own Model S (if, indeed, you ordered one) check out the source links for more info. [Thanks, Adam]
Tesla publishes Model S efficiency and range stats, expects 350 highway miles per charge
We've spent our fair share of time behind the dash of Tesla's gorgeous Model S, though there hasn't been an opportunity to push the all-electric vehicle to its limits on the fuel battery front. The sedan still isn't quite ready for a full-on range test, but the manufacturer has provided a teaser in the form of some updated stats, with a line graph demonstrating consistent improvements over the Roadster. Assuming constant highway travel at speeds of 50-70 miles-per-hour, the Model S is expected to continue rolling for 250-350 miles on a single charge, with the car possibly exceeding 400 miles at slower speeds (think 35 mph and below, but still on the highway). There's an 85 kWh battery on board (compared to 55 kWh on the Roadster), and despite taking a massive hit for size and weight, the Model S only consumes about 10 percent more power than its more-svelte sibling. Those figures apply to the mph listed above, and speed demons can expect to see a massive dive in range. Sounds like we can expect some fiery performance on the road -- just, hopefully not in the garage -- when the sedan begins making its way to customers next month, ahead of the original July ship proposal. Hop on past the break and hit up our source link for some nifty graphs, along with Tesla's findings in full.
Tesla is racing to the finish line for Model S prep, talks up 'Supercharging'
Despite losing two of its big kahunas, electric car maker Tesla is stepping on the throttle of its new Model S project like a battery-powered bat out of hell. While recently doing some 'splainin with Autoblog, Tesla Vice President of Communications Ricardo Reyes confirmed that initial deliveries of the four-door sedan are still on track for mid-2012 in the United States, followed by a European launch six months later. Reyes also talked up the creation of Supercharging locations to help long-driving Model S users with higher-capacity 60kWh and 85kWh batteries charge their car from 10 percent to 90 percent in 45 minutes -- Model S cars with the lower-end 40kWh battery won't be able to Supercharge, though. Tesla already announced a tax-credit fueled $49,900 price tag for the base model in December. Folks who prefer their electric vehicle to come with some more chest hair will be happy to know that the Feb. 9 unveiling of the seven-seat Model X SUV is still on track.
Das Keyboard Model S mechanical keyboard heads to the Mac this April
We just got a look at one new mechanical keyboard designed for Macs at CES last week (Matias' Tactile One), and now we have word of another option for those who take their typing seriously. Das Keyboard confirmed today that a Mac version of its Model S Professional keyboard will be available on April 15th, and that you can pre-order it now for $113 (a 15% discount off its list price). It brings with it the same gold-plated mechanical key switches found on the existing Model S, but with the additional of all the keys you'd expect on a Mac-specific keyboard -- plus some other bonuses like a two-port USB hub and an instant sleep function. Unfortunately, Mac users looking to go truly minimalist with an Ultimate edition will either have to wait and hope that one's coming or break out some black paint.
Tesla loses two Model S executives, Elon Musk says it's no big deal
A pair of bigwigs over at electric vehicle maker Tesla have drawn their final checks, with Peter Rawlinson and Nick Sampson calling it quits. The former was the automaker's vice president and chief engineer, while the latter "supervising vehicle and chassis engineering." Ricardo Reyes, a company spokesman, emailed the following: "Having completed conceptual and design engineering work on Model S, Peter has decided to step away to tend to personal matters in the U.K." The Model S, if you'll recall, is the un-launched four-door sedan that has heaps riding on its success, so it's no big shock to hear that the outfit's stock plunged around 20 percent following Bloomberg's report. Elon Musk, Tesla's chief executive officer and biggest shareholder, stated that "the uncertainty around [the] Model S is now much diminished, as anyone who has seen the beta vehicles and toured the factory will appreciate; there is no question in my mind that we will start delivering vehicles in July, if not sooner." Musk took to Twitter to assure people that the shock reverberating from the news was "way overstated," insinuating that the company's still well in control of its destiny. Whatever the case, we'd still take a couple of those S sedans in our garage, regardless of who's heading up their deployment.
Tesla confirms Model S pricing and options: $49,900 and up after tax credits
Tesla Motors has talked a fair bit about pricing for its Model S sedan over the past couple of years, but it's now finally set things in stone. US pricing for the base model will start at $49,900, although that's only after you factor in the $7,500 federal tax credit. As Tesla notes, that's the very same pricing that the company first promised way back when the car was unveiled in 2009, but it does come with a few trade-offs (more on that later). Opting for that base model will get you 40 kWh battery, along with 19-inch wheels and the 17-inch touchscreen that's included on all models (complete with a number of connectivity options). The standard Model S can also be upgraded to a 60kWh or 85kWh package for an extra $10,000 and $20,000, respectively (including other performance improvements), while the top-of-the-line Model S Performance option starts at $79,900 (also after the tax credit). Somewhat curiously, while that stand-out touchscreen is standard on all models, you'll have to add the $3,750 tech package if you want built-in navigation and other options like a high definition back-up camera. You can price things out for yourself and check out all of the customizations options at the source link below.
Tesla Motors spills its guts for showroom tour, visitors wonder where the gas tank's hiding
Tesla will begin priming the car-hungry public for its next electric offering, still set for a mid-2012 launch. The Model S will be given an extensive deconstruction in Tesla showrooms, touring around both the US and Europe over the next few months. The socket-friendly sedan will show off its electrical internals, including what the manufacturer says is the most energy dense battery in the industry, apparently capable of squeezing up to 300 miles from a single charge. We're also promised interactive touchscreen interfaces dotted around the stores to help explain precisely how it all works. Check out the full Tesla Motors tour schedule at the source below.
Tesla bucks industry standard with new charging system for Model S
At a time when most EV manufacturers are converging toward charging station conformity, Tesla is still marching to the beat of its own drum. Late last month, the company unveiled a new plug and charger that looks notably different from the J1772 connector -- the SAE International standard you'll find on most electric cars, including the Chevy Volt and Nissan Leaf. The new system, which will be available for the upcoming Model S, consists of a lightweight plug and wall-mounted unit that can supply 240 volts at up to 80 amps. It also features a comparatively thin cable that promises to deliver fast charging at 480 volts, which, according to the company, should give the Model S an extra boost. When connected to a 240 volt outlet, the car will be able to re-juice at a rate of 62 miles of travel per hour of charging. And while its streamlined aesthetics may signal a shift away from the J1772, Tesla's new charger does feature standard connectors for 120 volt and 240 volt outlets, and will ship with an adapter for industry standard plugs. So why did the manufacturer choose to ignore the J1772? CEO Elon Musk certainly has his reasons. Speaking to the New York Times, Musk poetically described the standard connector as "absolutely terrible, extremely ugly and low power." Tesla's system, by contrast, is more like "a beautiful advanced alien artifact that arrived in the middle of the night." He then went on to say how he really feels. Read more, at the source link below.
Tesla Roadster to return in 2014, 3-Series fighter in the works
Didn't have enough time to count 10 million pennies before the original Tesla Roadster went out of production? Well you're in luck, because there'll be a successor. Space cadet and entrepreneur extraordinaire, Elon Musk, confirmed to Autocar that a new Roadster would return in 2014. Unlike its Lotus-based predecessor, the redux will apparently be based on Tesla's third-generation platform, which the automag muses will likely be built on a"shortened version of ... the Model S." Musk also noted that the platform will be more "mass-market," giving rise to more pedestrian cars "like BMW's 3 Series" -- his words, not ours. With the Model S sedan on its way, and the Model X after that, the company certainly has its work cut out for it. But, if either are as delightful as prior Teslas, that'll be reason to cheer.
Panasonic, Tesla rekindle romance, strike supply agreement for Model S batteries
Panasonic and Tesla renewed their corporate wedding vows yesterday, with a new supply agreement on lithium-ion batteries. Under the accord, Panasonic will provide Tesla with cells for some 80,000 cars over the next four years, effectively ensuring that the manufacturer will meet its ramped-up production targets for 2012 -- including more than 6,000 orders for its Model S EV. As for the batteries themselves, they'll be made using Panasonic's nickel-type cathode technology, which, according to the company, will offer the highest energy density known. Of course, we're still awaiting for the Model S to actually enter full production, but you can whet your electric appetite with Panasonic's full press release, available after the break.
Tesla Model S test ride and factory tour (video)
Tesla's been teasing us with the Model S electric car for what seems like a cruelly long time. But, we gadget fans need to remember that designing and releasing a car is a rather different prospect than something like a phone. If your new iDevice crashes you might lose your patience, but if your new car crashes, well, the results could be rather more disastrous.Tesla is keeping up the teasing act with the Model S Beta launch, an opportunity for a lucky few to come and check out the company's factory (once the NUMMI facility in Fremont, CA) and to take a quick ride around the company's test track -- and we do mean quick. How do we know? Well, we got to come along. Join us for our impressions after the break.%Gallery-135957%
Tesla Model S to get faster Sport edition, leave sedan in the dust
Tesla looks set to offer another slightly more aggressive, slightly faster model alongside its Model S sedan [pictured]. The high-performance, zero-emission (and tentatively-named) Model S Sport packs a larger battery, extending its single-charge range to 300 miles. Green Car Reports adds that it'll even get optional aerodynamic wheels adding another 20 miles to the car's range. Acceleration has also been boosted, with 0 to 60MPH cut to under 4.6 seconds in the sporty upgrade. This should be the perfect vehicle for evading capture in the gasoline-poor robopocalyptic future. The Sport is reportedly set to launch alongside the standard Model S next year.
Tesla Model S and Roadster play nice on video
Vroooooom.... well, more accurately, shhhhhhh. That's a Tesla Model S and its sibling the Roadster (looking rather dashing in red, we might add) above, carving corners together as a family. What actual news do we have about these "premium electric vehicles?" None, we just thought this clip (after the break) of the two sleek EVs working their way around a closed desert track was pretty darned cool. The Model S and Roadster have posed for family portraits before, but this is the first time we've seen them play nice on video. You know the deal, head on after the break for all the battery-powered, four-wheel madness your little geek heart can handle. [Thanks, nunomaia]
Take a spin in Tesla's Model S this October, if you can get past the velvet rope
Tesla's been showing off its Silicon Valley-bred saloon for months now, from the touchscreen-laden console to the mechanical bits beneath its shapely skin. We even got a spread of a road going Model S last month, and this October a lucky few will get to cruise in some beta test cars at Tesla's factory in Fremont. These beta versions are "over ninety percent" of what the production Model S will be, and after the ride, the chosen get to tour Tesla's manufacturing facility. We plan on being there when the new EV is put through its paces, so stay tuned for our impressions of the Model S this autumn.
Tesla Model X SUV to launch in December, will be gliding quietly down the highway by 2014
Well, it's not often that we hear about products being ahead of schedule. Telsa CEO Elon Musk presented some forward-looking statements during his company's quarterly earnings call this week, revealing a mid-December time frame for the unveiling of its Model X prototype, which could hit streets as soon as 2014. There hasn't been any hint as to pricing for the all-electric SUV, but we wouldn't be surprised to see Tesla's X priced comparably to BMW's identically named X model hybrid SUV -- think sub-$100,000, not "affordable." With plans to produce only 15,000 per year beginning in 2013, a high price tag won't be the only thing keeping Tesla from fulfilling the dream of having an electric car in every driveway. Range has been another obstacle for electric car makers, but with new charging stations popping up on a regular basis, we may be able to make the 165-mile drive from New York City to Albany with slightly less anxiety by the time mid-decade rolls around.
Gone in 43 seconds: Tesla's Model S gets teased on the track (video)
We've already seen a short bit of footage of a single Model S on the road, and now Tesla has released an even briefer video of not one, not two, but three vehicles on the track for some alpha-level testing. No, they're not racing (at least not on the video), but it certainly looks like they're ready for one. See for yourself after the break, and look for things to improve further from here -- Tesla says it's now already applying what it's learned from the testing to its forthcoming beta vehicles.
Tesla Roadster nears the end of its production run, company switches focus to Model S
Well, we knew this day had to come eventually: various sources are reporting that Tesla Motors has announced that production of its Roadster will soon be drawing to a close, a scant three years (and a few months) after initially launching. "I think there's a handful of cars left to sell in the US," said CEO Elon Musk. "People in Europe and Japan probably have another six months [while in] the US, it's maybe a month or two." We always thought that the company's approach was pretty gutsy, and maybe that's exactly what the automotive world needed -- a long-range (if expensive) ride that screamed: "this ain't your parents' EV." (Cue guitar solo.) For the time being, the company will be switching its focus to the more subdued Model S sedan, although we won't be surprised if we see more badass vehicles from these guys in the future. We aren't sure it'll help with the tears, but our Roadster Sport 2.5 test drive will (thankfully) live on forever.
Tesla Model S is almost production-ready, does photo shoot to prove it
You're looking at an unlikely picture: two Tesla EVs on the same street. The Silicon Valley carmaker is hoping to become more mainstream, however, when it releases its Model S sedan next year to complement the exuberantly expensive Roadster 2.5. Tesla has just released photos of the latest, nearly production-ready build of the Model S to whet our appetites. The shots reveal a couple of sleek cosmetic changes to the front bumper and body panels, but mainly we're just happy to see the S rolling on schedule. Oh yes, and there's another glimpse of the 17-inch infotainment console, which Auto Evolution now reports will be accompanied by built-in 3G. Sounds dandy, but that $57,400 starting price had better include a data plan. Man, who are we kidding? [Thanks, Lucian]
