Tesla ’s Model S EV is nearly a year off, but the advanced propulsion upstart has already given would-be buyers a reason to whet their appetites – and not just because our spies nabbed it out testing on public streets earlier this year.
Today, Tesla confirmed that the Model S will list from $49,900 for the 40 kWh variant after a $7,500 federal incentive in the United States. From there, the price increases to $59,900 for the 60 kWh and $69,900 for the 85 kWh.
That means that Model S will be available in three basic battery flavors – 40, 60 and 85 kWh, each of which will give it a range of 160, 230 and 300 miles, respectively.
Performance enthusiasts will want to step up to the Model S Performance at $79,900, which adds the 85 kWh battery, as well as a high performance drive inverter and carbon fiber exterior accents. For $5,000 on top of that, buyers can add a Nappa leather and Alcantara leather interior, an air suspension with sport-tuned traction control and unique 21-inch alloy wheels and tires.
Other options for all models include a glass panoramic roof ($1,500), aerodynamic wheels ($1,500), metallic paint ($750), a Tech package with navigation, a backup camera, HID headlamps and a few other goodies ($3,750) and a 580-watt audio system ($950).
Twin chargers ($1,500) and a high power wall unit ($1,200) allow for a faster charging process.
For those truly intent on making the most of their Model S experience, a range-topping Signature trim level starts at $87,900 and adds a few appearance upgrades. A Signature Performance model – at $97,900 – is by far the most expensive Model S, but it is both the fastest and most exclusive. The Signature models are the first Model Ss to go on sale and they’re limited to just 1,000 examples.
When the Model S finally comes to market, it is expected to rival other EVs, like the plug-in hybrid Fisker Karma , as well as traditional luxury vehicles, like the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Tesla has yet to announce an exact on-sale date for the Model S, saying only that it will be available in the middle of 2012.
(More after video)
What we know
Model S is a rather dramatically styled four-door sedan. A sloping roofline gives it the appearance of a four-door coupe while the rear looks to have been influenced by the Jaguar XF .
Designed by Franz von Holzhausen, the front end styling of the Model S will be the future face of the electric automaker. Short front and rear overhangs not only give the Model S a clean, sporting look, but also allow for the maximum interior volume. Large 19 or 21-inch wheels sit at all four corners, giving the Model S a truly planted look.
Inside, the Model S’ interior is highlighted by a 17-inch touch screen. The large screen controls all of the vehicle’s radio, navigation and HVAC functions and is also highly customizable. The Model S comes packed with 3G wireless internet and HD satellite radio.
In keeping with the Model S’ green theme, Tesla offers chrome-free vegetable tanned Italian leather on the interior, and 100 percent recycled PET carpeting from Futuris.
Tesla claims the Model S will have “more room than station wagons,†which seems to be proven by the sedan’s seating capacity for five adults, plus optional rear-facing seats for two small children in the cargo area.
But where the Model S really shines is in its performance. The electric sedan will be offered with a range of up to 300 miles for the 85 kWh variant, and a QuickCharge system that takes only 45 minutes to top off the EV’s battery, given the correct electrical connection. For those looking for even faster fueling, the Model S’ battery can also be swapped out in just five minutes, making it compatible with Shai Agassi’s Better Place initiative.
The Model S’ door handles even retract for improved aerodynamics, proving Tesla really has an eye for efficiency. Despite its 3,825 lbs. curb weight and single-speed transmission, the Model S can make the sprint from zero-to-60 mph in 4.4 seconds if equipped with the Performance package.
The Model S’ stopping power is just as impressive as its acceleration, thanks to six-piston Brembos up front and four-pot calipers out back. The Model S can haul itself down from 60-to-zero in just 135 feet. All-wheel drive will become available down the line, giving the Model S even more sure-footedness.
Leftlane’s summary of the original Model S unveiling
Venture Capitalist Steve Jurvetson’s ride inside:
