Tesla announced that customer delivery of the Model S, the company's first premium electric sedan, will begin on June 22, 2012. To celebrate the occasion, select customers will be invited to receive their new cars at a private event held in Tesla's Fremont, California factory.
Excited about the upcoming release, Tesla Motors CEO and Chief Product Architect Elon Musk enthused, "In 2006, our plan was to build an electric sports car followed by an affordable electric sedan, and reduce our dependence on oil. Delivering Model S is a key part of that plan and represents Telsa's transition to a mass-production automaker and the most compelling car company of the 21st century."
Development on the Model S was particularly unique in its dedication to an electric architecture. By creating an aluminum body joined to a revolutionary lithium-ion battery cell and powertrain that sits tidily underneath the cabin floor, the Model S benefits an extra low center-of-gravity that offers improved handling characteristics. What's more, Tesla's electric powertrain packaging also allows for more cabin space for the passengers and more cargo space as well. Without an internal combustion engine or a transmission tunel, the Model S boasts a second trunk under the hood.
Not only is the Model S roomy, but the interior is packed with powerful modern conveniences as well. The centerpiece of the Tesla's center console, the 17-inch in-dash touchscreen infotainment system not only provides navigation, audio, and climate control settings, but also offers Bluetooth, internet, radio streaming, and web browsing capabailities too.
Regarding the hardware underneath, Tesla claims that the Model S comes with the most energy-dense battery pack in the industry. Combined with best-in-class aerodynamics, the Model S can reach 300 miles in a single charge, the longest range of any electric car in the world. As powerful as it is efficient, the 40kWh battery and three phase electric motor propels the sedan from 0-to-60 mph in an ample 4.4 seconds.
Beginning its deliveries on June 22, Tesla is expected to deliver 5,000 Model S sedans by year end. With a current waiting list exceeding 10,000, interested buyers may join the queue by signing for a Model S at one of Tesla's retail stores or online.
