And this runs on batteries?!
0 – 60mph in 4.5 seconds. 285 horsepower rear-wheel drive. A drag coefficient of only 0.27. Top speed 130mph. And it runs on batteries?!
Yes, sir! This is the Tesla Model S, a gasoline-free automobile with so many features and gadgets the manual reads like a best-seller. But throw the book aside. That is what Tesla has done every since they designed their first roadster. This beauty is not your normal run of the mill.
Electric cars are not new, of course. In fact, the very first land speed record was set by an electric car way back in 1899. But soon oil would be gushing out of the ground everywhere and it became cheaper to produce gasoline-driven cars than electric cars. Now that we have to dig much deeper for the black gold – figuratively and literally – electric cars are back in fashion. And the Tesla Model S is rather fashionable.
Tesla Model S
The car’s key is a remote control device.When the door handles are not in use they retract into the body to improve body streamlining; approach the car and sensors in the slides the handles out so that you can slide into a plush leather interior.
The optional Panoramic Roof is state-of-the-art infrared coated to reduce solar energy transmittance to 21% and visible light transmittance to 7%.
According to Tesla, the Model S has an approximate overall length of 16’4″ (4973 mm), overall height of 4’8″ (1426 mm), and overall width (with mirrors) of 7’2″ (2189 mm). Model S has an unladen ground clearance of approximately 6″ (154mm). “Approximate,” because final touches is still being made before the car is launched in 2012.
Charging the batteries is very easy: it simply plugs into any standard outlet. The charge port is hidden from sight in the driver’s side rear taillight. A full charge should be good to give you 300 miles (480 km) of driving pleasure. Remember, no loud clucking noise or ear-piercing growl: put the foot down and you’ll drive away – very fast – in a whisper. The only sound you’ll hear is your bank manager groaning about the 50 big ones you relieved him/her from.
The Model S not fast enough for you? Need something more in the territory of a Chevy Corvette or Porsche 911 but without needing to stop for fuel? Try the Tesla Roadster Sport: 0 – 60mph in 3.9 seconds.
Tesla Roadster Sport