Tesla Motors officially confirmed on Monday that it will be adding a new hybrid sedan to its lineup, known internally as the Model S. In addition to the confirmation, Tesla also announced the new model will be built in California, but failed to name a specific location.
Tesla was originally planning to build its new hybrid sedan in New Mexico, but a recently passed incentive program will keep Tesla production exclusive to California. The program allows for a sales tax exemption on any manufacturing equipment used to produce electric vehicles and also includes grants for training new employees, which will save Tesla millions.
Tesla also announced that the Model S ‘multi-use sport sedan’ will have a range of 225 miles and retail from $60,000. A production date has not been set, but the Model S will likely see production in 2010, according to MotorAuthority.com.
Like the 2010 Chevrolet Volt , the Model S will be powered by an electric motor – believed to be powered by lithium-ion batteries – but will also carry a small internal combustion engine to recharge the batteries when needed.
