Tesla's Flagship

The Tesla Model S is Tesla's new electric vehicle, scheduled for release in 2012. At the recent North American International Auto Show (Detroit Auto Show), the company revealed its internal structure, emphasizing its design considerations for aerodynamics, stability, handling, crash safety, performance, and range.



Unlike the Roadster, which was developed based on the Lotus Elise, this sedan was designed from the ground up. The Model S development involved tackling challenges with entirely new methods, unconstrained by the conventional structures of internal combustion engines. It boasts superior aerodynamic performance and high torsional rigidity, with newly developed in-house components such as aluminum extruded suspension parts.



Peter Rawlinson, Tesla's Vice President of Engineering, stated, "We designed the Model S to be a fantastic car for the driver. With its excellent suspension and aerodynamics, and by integrating the battery pack into the body structure, the Model S offers outstanding performance in its class."




The development and testing phase for the Model S, first unveiled in 2009, included an Alpha and a Beta phase, with the Alpha phase commencing in 2010. This phase tested braking performance under extreme conditions, suspension, driving dynamics, overall balance and finish, and safety. Following several months of testing with these prototypes, the Beta phase, which brought the vehicle closer to production specifications, is believed to be represented by the model shown in the recent video.



According to Graham Sutherland, head of vehicle dynamics, "As a result of the Alpha phase testing, the Model S proved to be surprisingly agile for its body size. Its exceptional handling balance, smooth ride, and steering that effectively communicates road feedback are all thanks to its low center of gravity and high-stiffness body."



The Model S is powered by a 42 kWh lithium-ion battery driving its electric motor. It achieves 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds and has a top speed of 193 km/h. The estimated range on a single charge is 483 km.



Tesla Motors reports that reservations for the Model S have already exceeded 3,500 units. Production is slated to begin in mid-2012 at Tesla's factory in Fremont, California, a facility formerly operated by NUMMI.



Below is the actual video. Please observe its updated front fascia and its agile performance.