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The Daily Roundup for 02.18.2013
You might say the day is never really done in consumer technology news. Your workday, however, hopefully draws to a close at some point. This is the Daily Roundup on Engadget, a quick peek back at the top headlines for the past 24 hours -- all handpicked by the editors here at the site. Click on through the break, and enjoy.
The Daily Roundup for 02.14.2013
You might say the day is never really done in consumer technology news. Your workday, however, hopefully draws to a close at some point. This is the Daily Roundup on Engadget, a quick peek back at the top headlines for the past 24 hours -- all handpicked by the editors here at the site. Click on through the break, and enjoy.
The Daily Roundup for 02.12.2013
You might say the day is never really done in consumer technology news. Your workday, however, hopefully draws to a close at some point. This is the Daily Roundup on Engadget, a quick peek back at the top headlines for the past 24 hours -- all handpicked by the editors here at the site. Click on through the break, and enjoy.
The Weekly Roundup for 02.04.2013
You might say the week is never really done in consumer technology news. Your workweek, however, hopefully draws to a close at some point. This is the Weekly Roundup on Engadget, a quick peek back at the top headlines for the past 7 days -- all handpicked by the editors here at the site. Click on through the break, and enjoy.
The Daily Roundup for 02.08.2013
You might say the day is never really done in consumer technology news. Your workday, however, hopefully draws to a close at some point. This is the Daily Roundup on Engadget, a quick peek back at the top headlines for the past 24 hours -- all handpicked by the editors here at the site. Click on through the break, and enjoy.
Distro Issue 77 hits the road with the Tesla Model S
In April of 2011, we spent some time in the driver's seat of the Tesla Roadster 2.5 Sport. Its throttle response and dashing good looks earned high marks, but the range anxiety left a bit to be desired. Now it's the winter of 2013, and in the latest issue of our weekly, we settle in behind the wheel of the Model S to determine if Tesla's refined offering has the chops to lead the EV fleet. Of course, these vehicles need a place to recharge, so Eyes-On visits one of the aforementioned outfit's Superchargers that look to make roadtrips a reality for electric vehicles. Aside from the automotive features, OUYA devs sound off on the pros and cons of the console while we put both the HP Spectre XT TouchSmart and Microsoft's Surface Pro through their respective paces. There's much more than we can pack into a single paragraph, so visit your weekly access link to grab a copy. Distro Issue 77 PDF Distro in the iTunes App Store Distro in the Google Play Store Distro in the Windows Store Distro APK (for sideloading) Like Distro on Facebook Follow Distro on Twitter
Tesla Model S review
As we cover the mobile industry, where the evolution of devices and processors is relentless, we're used to being impressed. We're used to seeing a new generation of a product that instantly and irrevocably makes the previous one look tame. It's just the way this world turns. However, that's not something we're used to seeing in the automotive world, where each new model year is typically such a minor step forward that without the addition of new creases or wings to the body, bigger wheels and more boisterous badges on the trunk, you'd hardly spot the improvements. That's not the case with the Tesla Model S. It comes not long after the retirement of the Tesla Roadster, a car we thoroughly enjoyed but found a bit too raw, a bit too rough around the edges for general consumption. The Model S is so much more refined, so much more polished that you can hardly compare the two. Yet they come from the same company and have one similar, defining characteristic: neither burns a drop of fuel. Join us after the break for an exploration of what makes Tesla's latest EV such an amazing ride -- and where the company must improve if it truly wants to compete with the BMWs and Mercedes-Benzes of the world.%Gallery-178184%
Tesla Model S app hits Android in beta
Sending commands to a Tesla Model S via a native smartphone app is already old hat for iPhone users who have one of Musk and Co.'s electric chariots, but Android users are just now getting their first crack at a dedicated app. Google Play has finally been graced with a beta version of the software, packing the look and features of its iOS counterpart. Armed with the application, Model S owners can remotely control charging, keep tabs on the car's battery level, adjust the cabin's climate, find and track the auto on a map, trigger door locks and more. Regarding bugs in the beta, Tesla warns that some UI glitches are on its radar. Jab the bordering source link for the download. [Thanks, Jarrod]
Tesla Model S dubbed 'world's quickest production electronic vehicle' by NEDRA, runs 1/4 mile in 12 seconds
We already knew the Tesla Model S was fast, but not this fast. After dropping a 12.371 quarter mile this past weekend at the Palm Beach International Raceway in Florida (@ 110.84 MPH), the National Electric Drag Racing Association awarded the Tesla Model S its stamp of officiation for being "the quickest production vehicle" in quarter mile tests. That's not just on a single pass, mind you, but several quarter mile runs over the course of a day at the track. Each pass reaffirmed a 12-second average from the 416HP electric beast -- more than proficient for a 4,700-lb hulk of metal, and more than competitive against much lighter and more expensive beasts. And that's all without internal combustion, lest you forget -- the thing even gets 350 miles per charge. Drag Times attended the event and promises video in the coming days, but for now you can peep the quarter mile timeslips and read their rundown. [Photo credit: Drag Times; Thanks Fred!]
60 kWh 'mid-range' Tesla Model S rated at 95 MPGe with 208 mile range by EPA
The budget version of the Tesla Model S, with its 60 kWh battery pack has been delayed. But that didn't stop the more wallet-friendly EV from swinging by the EPA. It seems that lighter power source has led to a slightly increased efficiency, though a decreased range. The 60 kWh version will supposedly run out of juice after 208 miles, which translates into 95 MPGe. That's not bad considering the higher-end 85 kWh version clocks in at 89 MPGe, with an EPA estimated range of 265 miles. Then again, it seems that rating is a bit conservative, as one father and son team managed 405 miles on a single 85 kWh charge. At just shy of $70,000, the "mid-range" Tesla S is still quite a pricey proposition. We'll just have to wait and see if "budget" model with its 40 kWh battery and $60,000 price tag is any more of a value.
Tesla Model S squares off against BMW M5 in drag race, gives EVs extra street cred (video)
We already know from our own experience that the Tesla Model S is a driver's car, with acceleration and handling you wouldn't expect from a big and quiet luxury sedan. There's still nothing like a drag race to help settle the matter. Automobile has pitted the upscale EV against one of its more conspicuous rivals, BMW's M5, with performance results that might surprise those who would expect a 500HP, twin-turbo V8 to regularly come out on top. While we won't spoil the full results of the showdown video after the break, let's just say that even the M5's relatively wide torque band can only do so much when the Model S' electric motor is always at its peak. BMW's car may be better overall for those who want to travel long distances outside of certain routes, or to enjoy a burly exhaust note -- but there has to be a certain thrill for Tesla drivers who know they can hang with the speed kings while helping the environment.
Tesla behind on Model S production goals, aims for extra cash with stock sale
Sure, topping off a Model S in 30 minutes with a Supercharger is awfully handy, but production delays of the sedan will keep some future owners away from quick charge times -- and most importantly -- their cars for a little while longer. In a freshly published filing with the US Securities Exchange and Commission, Tesla revealed that it hasn't reached its goal of producing 400 Model S vehicles a week, which places them four to five weeks behind their 2012 delivery expectations. To date, just 255 of the autos have rolled off the assembly line, 132 of which have made their way to new homes. According to the Palo Alto-based outfit, ramping up production has been slower than expected for a number of reasons, including supplier delays and taking a deliberately measured pace for quality assurance purposes. Before the year draws to a close, Musk and Co. anticipate meeting their goal of churning out 400 cars each week, and a total of 20,000 by the end of 2013. Currently, the automaker has racked up around 13,000 reservations and thinks it'll be working to fulfill even more throughout 2013. As a result of the manufacturing lag, the firm has slashed its revenue forecast by as much as $200 million, estimating it'll rake in anywhere from $400 million to $440 million this year. In an effort to add cash to its coffers, the company is putting up roughly 5 million shares of stock for sale. Who's buying, you say? Tesla mentioned its CEO Elon Musk is interested in putting down a cool million bucks.
Tesla CEO teases crossover and sports car EVs for 2016
Tesla founder Elon Musk would like to remind you that the Model X isn't the terminus of his company's electric car ambitions. Far from it: Musk tells Wired that Tesla's 2016 plans include both a crossover SUV akin to the BMW X3 as well as a pure sports car that goes beyond just a Roadster redux. The racier vehicle will have speed, but "not supercar pricing," the CEO says. He also elaborated on already-known plans for an 'entry' sedan in 2015, which should resemble a 20 to 25 percent smaller Model S and cost about $30,000 if all goes well. There's a wide gap between promises and reality in all those statements, but Musk has a reputation for largely delivering on target -- which gives us hope that there will finally be Tesla EVs within range of everyday budgets.
Tesla details service plans, software updates for Model S
So you drop $50,000+ on a Tesla Model S -- then what? The all-electric automaker offered some more details on what folks can expect in the ensuing years on its blog this week, detailing service plans and software updates, and what it'll all cost. On that latter point, you can expect to pay $600 for a basic one-year service plan, or opt for a four-year package that'll set you back $1900 -- on-site visits are available for an extra $100, or as part of a four-year, $2400 plan that includes unlimited on-site visits. To provide that service, Tesla has also announced that it's nearly tripling its number of service centers, which it says will mean there's a service center within 100 miles of more than 90 percent of Model S reservation holders. What's more, it's also offered some details on what those owners will see in future software updates, including an optional "creep" mode that will mimic the slow, forward roll of a car with an automatic transmission. You can find more details and a full list of service centers at the links below.
Tesla Model S first drive: the sports sedan goes electric (update: video)
It's no secret that we have a few automobile enthusiasts in our midst here at Engadget, and we're pretty sure there are some in the audience as well -- you know who you are. Still, you don't have to be a car nut to appreciate all the innovation and technology that's gone into Tesla's sophomore vehicle -- the Model S electric sedan. So strap yourselves in and hold on to your kneecaps: you're about to ride along with us as we drive the Model S for the very first time. Excited? We are too -- hit the break for our first drive video and impressions.
Tesla Model S rolls by the EPA, keeps on going, and going
Sometimes all you want are just the cold hard numbers. With electric vehicles, this means EPA rating. The Tesla Model S just got officially measured up, and scored a reasonable MPGe of 89 (combined), 88 (city) and 90 (highway), plus an impressive single charge range of 265 miles. This isn't all that far off the manufacturer's own (albeit optimistic) early estimates. To get that range, you'll have to trump up $69,900 for the fully loaded, 85-kWh battery totin' version, but if you're planning that once-in-a-lifetime journey, it's probably money well spent.
Tesla gives Model S Signature drivers a year of free data, reveals their cars' true colors (video)
Although Tesla has already delivered the first Model S to its eager owner, the fledgling automaker is still offering a steady stream of treats to those patiently waiting for the official June 22nd date. Drivers who spring for the Signature Series trim level of the EV sedan now get a year's worth of mobile data at no extra cost, a bonus no doubt helpful for buyers who get lost on the first drive. Regardless of which Model S might eventually find the driveway in the future, Tesla is providing a look at how it paints the car's chosen color. Each aluminum shell is dipped in an electro-coating solution, baked in an oven, water-sealed and given its final clear coat paint by robots -- no dealer will be charging extra for weatherproofing here. It's all appropriately futuristic, and you can get a peek at the whole process in the video after the break as well as at the source.
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 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.
