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December 5, 2014
On-Site Report from Detroit | Tesla
Tesla Model X
Arrival Next Year: Tesla's Crossover SUV, the Model X
Tesla's SUV, the Model X, announced last FebruaryIts power source is, of course, an electric motor, and it boasts styling, space utility, and performance that fully leverage its electric vehicle nature. Unveiled at the recentDetroit Motor Show, this is still a design prototype, but what did Yasuhisa Shimashita make of it upon seeing it in person?
Text by SHIMASHITA Yasuhisa
Space Efficiency and High Driving Performance Leveraging EV Advantages
Tesla recently unveiled the "Model S" in Japan. While that is also of great interest, at the Detroit show, a design prototype of the next model, the "Model X," was announced.
The Model X, created as a true crossover combining the strengths of an SUV and a minivan, features three rows of seats for up to seven occupants, as well as exceptional space efficiency with ample luggage space at both the front and rear of the vehicle. This is, needless to say, made possible by the packaging unique to EVs, which have no engine and have their batteries laid out on the floor.
The rear Falcon Wing doors that open upwards are also a striking feature. While it's claimed that rear passengers can enter and exit while standing, and that attaching and detaching child seats is easier, considering the Japanese market, where low-ceilinged parking garages and tower parking are common, usability is a point of concern.
Batteries can be selected from 60kWh or 85kWh options. While it is rear-wheel drive as standard, a dual-motor AWD is available as an option. This offers a 50 percent torque increase and a 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) acceleration time of under 5 seconds.
Production is slated to begin in 2014, and it will be sold "in the price range of premium SUVs."