Tesla takes a new step forward in its medium term commercial strategy with the Model E still under development which is planned for release in 2016 and offers a more accessible price but the new asset of the Californian manufacturer is the Model X, a distinctive electric crossover to hit the market in 2015, with a more familiar profile than previous Teslas.
The recently unveiled Model X will be the third vehicle developed by the firm led by Elon Musk, following the initial Roadster and the revolutionary Model S. At first, all pointed out to the creation of some kind of SUV, but the still to be produced model will be closer to a minivan. The Model X was introduced as a crossover that will allow you to install a third row of seats to accommodate up to seven passengers.
Under this hybrid formula, the Model X hopes to be the best option with zero emissions for everyday use. But the reputation of the successful Model S also means not sacrificing performance, and Tesla is well aware of that. The propulsion system is based on two battery options: 60 kWh, or for higher performance, 85 kWh. And although the company has not yet provided information about performance or weight, the vehicle is expected to accelerate from 0-60 mph in under 5 seconds.
The Model X’s doors will have the shape of “gull wings.” As in the case of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, Tesla has opted for this design, which made the brand famous in the 1950’s, to further facilitate the entry to the vehicle while benefiting from the sportier character of the legendary silhouette. Read more about luxury cars here.
Although no definitive images of the interior have been released, the Model X also promises not to disappoint those who have already experienced the luxury, comfort and technology in the Model S: it will include the now iconic 17-inch tablet in the central console from which you can access all the Tesla functions of infotainment, and a second screen as a dashboard behind the wheel.
What’s more, the Model X greatly benefits from the fact that the Model S broke many electric car barriers: although not a final figure—as in the higher version of the sedan— its autonomy will it be around 300 miles with a recharge time of just 30 minutes thanks to the superchargers installed by Tesla.
The Tesla Model X will go into production in late 2014 and will be available for sale sometime in 2015. The price is not yet known, but is expected to be between $45,000 and $50,000. Its advantage is that it will have no rival within its category. ■