Model X marks the spot
Tesla's long-awaited Model X launched with 257-mile range, "Ludicrous" acceleration and gullwing doors.
The Tesla Model S has already been a huge hit in the 'States, or at least those parts where the ultra-wealthy want to both show off their green credentials and get free use of carpool lanes while driving solo, and there's little to suggest the Model X won't continue the trend, especially with the attention-grabbing ability of its enormous top-hinged rear doors.
Although officially pitched as Tesla's first SUV it looks as much like a big MPV to us, an impression reinforced by the fact it will come in both six- and seven-seat configurations. With the rear doors closed it looks pretty modest; like a slightly blinged-down BMW X6 from the side. But with them open it's going to attract attention like a DeLorean in 1955.
Technology is everywhere - there are a battery of sensors that will automatically open the right door as you approach the car, while the rear doors won't motor themselves up unless there's enough space to do so without touching any obstacles. A variable hinge system means they can still work even if there's only a foot of clearance to the side of the car. The vast windscreen, which extends all the way back to the B-pillar, is claimed to be the largest piece of automotive glass in the world. (The last generation Vauxhall Astra sporthatch had a similar option - remember that?)
The powertrain is effectively identical to that of the four-wheel drive Model S, with the same battery pack and twin-motor system to provide power to both ends. The fastest version will be the P90D, which features the so-called "Ludicrous" acceleration mode that delivers 0-60mph in a claimed 3.2 seconds and has a total output across both motors equivalent to 762hp; impressive considering a 2,470kg kerbweight. Range on the US EPA standard is claimed to be 257 miles.
Below the P90D are less powerful 90D and 70D variants. There's no confirmation on European pricing but the P90D Signature costs $132,000 in the U.S and American media is reporting that the basic version will be around $80,000.
Oh, and like every Tesla model, the audio system volume goes up to 11, in proof that somebody there likes Spinal Tap.
We've got a long way to go before Tesla gets close to matching its US success in the UK, but we'll be seeing early adopters in some Model Xes some times next year.
Watch the video here.
Fair play to Elon Stark...sorry Musk. He is living the dream with most of his ideas. Bring on the Hyperlopp!
I was a little sceptical of the fancy doors, ok, you are close to something and can open the rear doors, the front ones still require the normal clearance.
I think the parallel with Apple is a good one, they seem to have emerged from almost nowhere and caught the old guard napping, remember when the Iphone came out, Nokia were basking in the glory of the N95 and other rather fancy traditional phones, then the Iphone arrived and kicked the living st out of them.
There seems to be an IT startup company vibe rather than a car company one, a bit more of a sense of humour.
Secondly I could be mistaken but wasn't this supposed to be the "affordable" model to bring EV to the masses? I don't really see 80-130k as being affordable.
Why oh why can't somebody make a GOOD looking, affordable EV. Surely it can't be that f*ckin hard can it?
Not sure they thought that one through.
Not sure they thought that one through.
...and ideally a properly engineered car which doesn't need to be reconfigured by the driver so doesn't have a multitude of functions that require buttons.
I want a Rolls Royce Phantom dash - shame I'm just Mondeo Man.
Not sure they thought that one through.
The Tesla is like a vegetarian meal cooked by the world's greatest chef, no doubt very tasty with all the best ingredients and presentation, and no doubt very good for you, however the Charger was a big massive steak, served with lobster and french fries (well, he was American). Pretty sure if I had the choice, it would be a steak every single time
Was interesting to see that in the Tesla he was clearly enjoying himself, and giggling whenever he put his foot down, in the Charger he was grinning so much all the time his face was hurting. I think the quote was "The Tesla has Insane Mode, the Charger IS Insane mode".
No doubt very worthy cars, but as a petrolhead they interest me as much as magnolia wallpaper. Add in autonomous mode, and they interest me even less.
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