Tesla Motors has unveiled the most detailed look yet at the Model S, showcasing Tesla’s revolutionary approach to vehicle engineering. The Model S, engineered from the ground up as an EV, is meticulously designed for superior aerodynamics, stability and handling, crash safety, performance and range. The Model S expanded view on display details how Tesla engineers have created Model S to excel in all of these areas.
Tesla is recognized for its innovation in electric powertrain engineering and battery technology. Tesla design is known for its unique refusal to compromise beauty or efficiency. Today at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Tesla introduced its excellence in vehicle engineering.
Tesla assembled the brightest, most-promising automotive engineers to build the Model S. They took a fresh approach to their task, without the restrictions imposed by traditional combustion architecture. The result includes superior aerodynamics, remarkable torsional rigidity and an in-house extruded aluminum suspension system.
“We’ve engineered Model S to be a great driver’s car,” says Peter Rawlinson, VP of Engineering, Tesla. “Suspension, aerodynamics, and the marriage of the battery pack to the body structure distinguish Model S as the superior vehicle of its class.”
Model S development includes Alpha and Beta testing phases. The Alpha testing phase began in 2010. In the alpha phase, Tesla will test Model S under extreme conditions for brakes, suspension, driving dynamics, fit and finish, and safety requirements.
Tesla already has over 3,500 Model S reservations. The car will begin production in mid-2012 at the Tesla Factory in Fremont, CA.
Tesla Roadster 2.5
The Tesla Roadster proved Tesla’s electric powertrain is the most advanced in the industry. It is the only automobile in the world to provide super car performance with zero emissions.
In just over two years, Tesla has produced four iterations of the Tesla Roadster, demonstrating Tesla’s commitment to innovation and the company's close feedback loop with its customers. In the last year, the Roadster has reached significant milestones including delivery of over 1,500 cars in over 30 countries, 8.5 million electric miles driven, and most recently VIN 1000 broke a world record, driving 347 miles on a single charge.
On display at Tesla’s booth, the Roadster is equipped with a Tesla engineered custom Roadster ski rack, and set of signature Tesla Folsom Custom Skis. The Tesla Roadster’s electric motor and advanced lithium-ion battery don’t just make it possible to drive in below-zero weather -- they make it a top choice for spirited winter driving.