A remarkable year for Tesla Motors, the electric car company's Model S electric sedan has become a major hit in the market. Thanks to the reception, Tesla posted its first quarterly profit in Q1 2013. What's more, Tesla finally repaid the Department of Energy its $465 million U.S. loan of nine years.
On a roll, Tesla Motors isn't finished yet. Maintaining the Tesla Model S' momentum of success, Tesla is slated to introduce its next model, the Model X crossover, with production commencing at the second half of 2014.
Here are the top 5 facts we know about the Tesla Model X crossover electric vehicle so far:
The official pricing for the Tesla Model X has not been released but Tesla's 10-K document does indicate its pricing will be influenced by its powertrain options, a strategy which closely mirrors the current pricing of the Model S Sedan.
Reservations for the standard Model X require a $5,000 deposit, while the Signature version requires a $40,000 deposit.
Range for the Tesla Model X will be influenced by powertrain options. The Model X will feature with 60 kWh and 85 kWh battery pack options in rear-wheel-drive, dual motor all-wheel-drive, and performance with dual motor all-wheel-drive options.
Given the Tesla Model S also offers 60 kWh and 85 kWh options at a range of 206 and 265 miles, respectively, the Model X is expected to deliver marginally lower figures given its added weight and greater surface area against the wind.
Performance is a staple in all Tesla models. Despite its fundamentally eco-friendly powertrains, Tesla vehicle deliver serious performance as well.
In the case of the Tesla Model X Performance AWD, Tesla promises a 0-to-60 acceleration of less than 5 seconds.
Exterior design for the Model X follows along a similar vein to the Model S. Despite being a highly innovative and technologically advanced product, the Tesla Model X will feature a sleek and somewhat conservative exterior design.
According to Tesla, the "Model X is designed to offer ultimate utility in a tight, efficient package. From every angle, Model X is as big on style as it is on function."
With its short overhangs and low body height, the Model X is expected to handle as well as any car.
With human design in mind, the doors on the Tesla Model X also feature a brilliant "Falcon Wings" design, which allows the doors to fully open in tight parking spaces.
Interior layout in the Tesla Model X is particularly clever as the electric vehicle's battery cell array is located on the floor and is engineered to be as low as possible. A design that frees up a lot of space in the passenger cabin, the Model X is roomy enough to fit an additional row of seating for larger families.
As in the Model S, an enormous center screen infotainment system dominates the dashboard.
Be sure to stay tuned as we learn more about the Tesla Model X in the months ahead!
