2010 Tesla Electric Roadster TAG Heuer Sports Car Concept

With the 2010 Tesla Roadster TAG Heuer, on display at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, pioneering luxury Swiss watchmaker TAG Heuer and electric carmaker Tesla Motors have teamed up in a worldwide partnership as the iconic Swiss brand celebrates its 150th anniversary.

2010 Tesla Electric Roadster TAG Heuer

This one-of-a-kind collector's car includes a unique interior by Tesla Chief Designer Franz von Holzhausen, incorporating TAG Heuer avant-garde design elements and a specially designed center console due to host TAG Heuer's cutting edge concept watch.

2010 Tesla Electric Roadster TAG Heuer

This car also features a TAG Heuer Meridiist mobile phone as well as a one-fifth second Heuer Limited Edition Stopwatch. This Swiss-made timepiece with mechanical movement pays tribute to the 1860 founding of the company and evoques the mythic revival of the brand's vintage stopwatches.

2010 Tesla Electric Roadster TAG Heuer

The car's exterior color scheme is Foucault Field Gray, embodying the innovative spirit of both companies. The design was inspired by the new TAG Heuer concept watch, a technical milestone in mechanical movements, which brings technologically advanced art to life through motion.

2010 Tesla Electric Roadster TAG Heuer

Since its founding in an artisan's workshop in the Swiss Jura, TAG Heuer has become one of the world's best-known luxury brands - maker of avant-garde watches, eyewear and premium mobile phones for refined consumers around the globe.

2010 Tesla Electric Roadster TAG Heuer

TAG Heuer, a star brand from the luxury group and worldwide leader Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy (LVMH), also has deep roots in the automotive sector. Company founder Edouard Heuer received in 1911 the patent for The Time of Trip, the first car dashboard chronograph, followed in 1933 by the Autavia - the first dashboard timekeeper for both automobiles and aviation. The benchmark in cutting-edge chronographs and timekeeping technology since 1860, TAG Heuer is the watch brand that can claim the longest and strongest association with motor sports and dream cars. Both watches and chronographs are inspired and driven by motor sports, from Formula One to GT cars.

2010 Tesla Electric Roadster TAG Heuer

"TAG Heuer has a rich history and expertise with the world's most prestigious racing teams - but this is the first ever partnership we've forged with an electric sports car company," said Jean-Christophe Babin, President and CEO of TAG Heuer. "We believe that high-performance drivers are increasingly searching for products that are efficient, socially responsible and stylish. TAG Heuer and Tesla are two of the few companies arleady achieving these ideals today."

2010 Tesla Electric Roadster TAG Heuer

Tesla Motors began developing an electric sports car in 2004 and remains the only automaker selling highway-capable electric cars. The Tesla Roadster accelerates faster than nearly any other supercar yet is twice as energy efficient as a Toyota Prius - the only car that delivers supercar performance guilt-free, with zero tailpipe emissions and a carbon footprint dramatically lower than any comparable sports car.

2010 Tesla Electric Roadster TAG Heuer

Based in California's Silicon Valley, Tesla has delivered more than 1,000 cars to consumers in 21 countries. Advertising Age magazine recently named Tesla one of America's "hottest brands." The Tesla Roadster is quickly becoming the must-have car among Hollywood celebrities, European royalty and socially responsible trendsetters worldwide.

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Tesla Model S Concept, 2009

Tesla Model S Concept 2009

Tesla Motors is now taking orders for the Tesla Model S, an all electric family sedan that carries seven people and travels 300 miles per charge.

The Tesla Model S, which carries its charger onboard, can be recharged from any 120V, 240V or 480V outlet, with the latter taking only 45 minutes. By recharging their car while they stop for a meal, drivers can go from LA to New York in approximately the same time as a gasoline car. Moreover, the floor-mounted battery pack is designed to be changed out in less time than it takes to fill a gas tank, allowing for the possibility of battery-pack swap stations.

The floor-mounted powertrain also results in unparalleled cargo room and versatility, as the volume under the front hood becomes a second trunk. Combining that with a four-bar linkage hatchback rear trunk and flat folding rear seats, the Tesla Model S can accommodate a 50-inch television, mountain bike and surfboard simultaneously. The packaging efficiency gives the Tesla Model S more trunk space than any other sedan on the market and more than most SUVs.

Tesla expects to start Tesla Model S production in late 2011. The company believes it is close to receiving $350 million in federal loans to build the Tesla Model S assembly plant in California from the Dept of Energy's Advanced Technology Vehicle Manufacturing Program.

Building on Proven Technology
Tesla is the only production automaker already selling highway-capable EVs in North America or Europe. With 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds, the Tesla Roadster outperforms almost all sports cars in its class yet is six times as energy efficient as gas guzzlers and delivers 244 miles per charge. Tesla has delivered nearly 300 Roadsters, and nearly 1,000 more customers are on the wait list.

Tesla do not require routine oil changes, and they have far fewer moving (and breakable) parts than internal combustion engine vehicles. They qualify for federal and state tax credits, rebates, sales tax exemptions, free parking, commuter-lane passes and other perks. Tesla Model S costs roughly $5 to drive 230 miles - a bargain even if gasoline were $1 per gallon.

The anticipated base price of the Tesla Model S is $49,900 after a federal tax credit of $7,500. The company has not released options pricing. Three battery pack choices will offer a range of 160, 230 or 300 miles per charge.

With a 300-mile range and 45-minute Quick Charge, the $49,900 Tesla Model S can carry five adults and two children in quiet comfort - and you can charge it from any outlet, without ever stopping for gas. World's first mass-produced electric vehicle offers performance, efficiency and unrivaled utility with twice the energy-efficiency of hybrids, making Tesla Model S the only car you'll ever need.

Convenience and utility bullet points:
* Up to 300-mile range
* 45-minute Quick Charge
* 5-minute battery swap
* Charges from 110V, 220V or 440V
* Seating for 5 adults + 2 child seats
* Unique hatch for oversized items
* 60/40 flat-folding rear seat
* 2nd trunk under hood
* EPA Roominess Index 121.6
* More room than station wagons
* 17-inch infotainment touchscreen
* 3G wireless connectivity

Tesla Model S powertrain includes a liquid-cooled 9-inch motor, floor-mounted battery pack and a single-speed gearbox, delivering effortless acceleration, responsive handling and quiet simplicity - no fancy clutchwork or gear-shifting required. Tesla Model S costs as little as $4 to fully charge - a bargain even if gasoline dropped to $1 per gallon. You can have affordable fun while being socially responsible.

Technical specs:
* 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds
* ¼ mile in 14 seconds
* 120 mph top speed
* Braking 60-0 mph 135 feet
* 42 kWh battery storage system standard
* 70 kWh and greater battery storage systems optional
* 9- inch liquid cooled electric motor
* Single-speed transaxle gearbox
* Curb Weight 3825 lbs
* Overall Length 196"
* Wheelbase 116.5"
* All-wheel-drive available (option available in future production models)
* Right hand drive available

The Tesla Model S Concept is a drivable vehicle that exemplifies Tesla's "no compromises" philosophy - an elegantly refined luxury sedan delivering optimal performance without sacrificing efficiency. Designed by Franz von Holzhausen, the car's aggressive stance gives way to a modern silhouette, with minimal front and rear overhangs for maximum space efficiency. The car's mature face defines the future of the Tesla brand and incorporates the touches from the Tesla Roadster. Environmentally friendly materials are incorporated throughout, including water-based paint for the exterior, chrome-free vegetable tanned Italian leather on interior, and 100 percent recycled PET carpeting from Futuris.

Other details:
* Panoramic roof with sliding moon roof
* Retracting door handles for improved aerodynamics
* Full-time 3G connectivity with Internet, HD and satellite radio
* Push button "gear" selector
* Brembo brakes
* Automatic rear lift gate
* 21-inch wheels, Front Tires 245/35ZR21, Rear Tires 285/30ZR21
* 17-inch haptic touchscreen and customizable vehicle information display
* Fully digital instrument cluster
* LED and neon headlight and taillights, with xenon Hella low beams
* Smart-key power and push button gear selector
* Brembo brake system with new one-piece monobloc calipers and integral stiffening bridge to optimize performance
* Front brake system:
o Brembo Gran Turismo
o Brembo 6-piston Monobloc Calipers
o Brembo 405x34mm 2-Piece Floating Slotted Discs with Billet Aluminum Hats
* Rear brake system:
o Brembo Gran Turismo
o Brembo 4-piston Monobloc Calipers
o Brembo 380x28mm 2-Piece Slotted Discs with Billet Aluminum Hat

READ MORE - Tesla Model S Concept, 2009

Tesla Roadster, 2008

Tesla Roadster 2008

Tesla Roadster Specifications

* Style: 2-seat, open-top, rear-drive roadster
* Drivetrain: Electric motor with 2-speed electrically-actuated-manual-shift transmission with integral differential
* Motor: 3-phase, 4-pole electric motor, 248hp peak (185kW), redline 13,000 rpm, regenerative "engine braking"
* Chassis: Bonded extruded aluminum with 4-wheel wishbone suspension
* Brakes: 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS
* 0-60 mph acceleration: under 4 seconds
* Top Speed: 125 mph
* Range : ~220 miles (based on EPA combined city/highway cycle)
* Battery Life: Useful battery, 100,000 miles
* Energy Storage System: Custom microprocessor-controlled lithium-ion battery pack
* Full Charge: ~3.5h

Suspension
* Front: independent; upper and lower wishbone; co-axial coil spring/telescopic damper unit; anti-roll bar
* Rear: independent; upper and lower wishbone; co-axial coil spring/telescopic damper

Wheels
* Type: Forged Light alloy
* front: 5.5J x 16
* rear: 7.5J x 17

Tires
* Type: Yokohama Neova AD07 LTS
* front: 175/55 R16
* rear: 225/45 R17

Tesla Roadster Dimensions (in. / mm)
* Overall length: 155.4 / 3946
* Overall width - incl. mirrors: 73.7 / 1873
* Overall height (at curb weight): 44.4 / 1127
* Wheelbase: 92.6 / 2352
* Track - front: 57.6 / 1464
* Track - rear: 59.0 / 1499
* Curb weight: ~2690 pounds
* Leg Room (in./mm): 42.0 / 1067
* Front Head Room (in./mm): 36.7 / 932
* Front Shoulder Room (in./mm): 26.0 / 660

Tesla Roadster Standard Interior features
* Heated sport seats with inflatable lumbar support
* Three-spoke leather-wrapped sport steering wheel
* Smooth leather seats and trim in black, dark gray, light gray, or beige
* Blaupunkt stereo sound system with single-disc CD player, iPod interface, and MP3 playback
* Cruise Control
* Homelink universal transmitter to operate compatible garage, gate, and home lighting/home security systems
* Power windows and locks
* Air conditioning
* Single retractable cup holder

Tesla Roadster Standard Exterior Features

* Double-insulated black soft top
* Proprietary halogen low- and high-beam headlamp assemblies
* LED tail lights
* Forged uni-directional seven-spoke wheels in silver finish: 16" front, 17" rear
* Locking wheel lugs
* Tire Inflator/sealant
* Cold weather ESS heater for cold weather charging to -20 degrees Celsius
* Home-based charging system with integral safety features for 3.5 hour full re-charge

Tesla Roadster Standard Safety and Security Features
* Four-sensor, four-channel Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS)
* Traction control
* Tire pressure monitoring system
* Front and rear crumple zones
* Driver and passenger front airbags
* Rigid occupant safety cell
* Side impact door beams
* Seatbelt pretensioners
* Integrated headrests
* Vehicle theft-deterrent and engine immobilizer system
* PIN for security in operating the vehicle
* Valet mode to restrict speed, acceleration, and distance

Tesla Roadster Factory-installed options and accessories
* Premium leather seats available in nine colors with embroidered Tesla Motors logo
* Microfiber, non-leather seats in black
* Bluetooth cellular phone integration
* Satellite radio with 170 channels of digital sound
* Seven-speaker premium sound system tuned for Tesla Roadster cockpit
* Touch-screen navigation system with voice guidance
* Matching body-colored carbon fiber hardtop with full headliner
* Metallic and premium paint
* Tesla Motors custom floor mats
* Mobile charging system

READ MORE - Tesla Roadster, 2008

Tesla Recalls 439 Roadsters Over Potential Fire Hazard

Tesla Motors has initiated a voluntary safety recall on its battery-electric Roadster 2.0 and 2.5 models following the discovery of a potential fire hazard involving an auxiliary power cable.

The California-based automaker said it became aware of the problem after a single incident where an auxiliary cable "chafed against the edge of a carbon fiber panel in the vehicle causing a short, smoke and possible fire behind the right front headlamp of the vehicle."

The affected 12 volt auxiliary cable is located in the passenger wheel well behind the right headlight. It is part of a backup system that provides power to systems including the front and rear lights, turn signals and airbags in the event the primary 12 volt power system fails or drops below a certain threshold.

Tesla said it has assured owners of the 439 affected Roadsters that it is merely a precautionary measure and does not affect the main battery pack or power systems in any way. It also does not affect Roadster 1.5 models (vehicles with a VIN ending in 500 or before), as these vehicles do not have the 12 volt auxiliary cable installed.

Owners of the affected models are being notified by email and post, and can make an appointment for Tesla service staff to inspect the cable and install a protective sleeve to prevent any further incidents. This can be done at the owner's home or place of work and takes approximately one hour. The appropriate regulatory agencies have also been notified.

By Tristan Hankins

_______________________________GALLERY_______________________________

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Lotus Elise and Exige Recall Affects Most Tesla Roadster Models

Lotus Elise and Exige Recall Affects Most Tesla Roadster Models

As most of you may already know, the all-electric Tesla Roadster is based on the Lotus Elise with which its shares numerous parts including the rear hub flange bolts that have been deemed defective. According to the NHTSA, on some vehicles the bolts may be under-torqued and could become loose. The two companies issued separate notifications on the matter with Tesla saying that the recall affects 345 Roadster models manufactured between March 2008 and April 22, 2009 (out of a total of 400 cars sold until May 2009) while Lotus is recalling 27 Elise and Exige vehicles built from January 14 through May 5, 2009.

Both recalls are expected to begin in June. Tesla owners may contact the company at 1-877-888-3752 while Exige and Elise drivers can call Lotus at 1-800-245-6887.

READ MORE - Lotus Elise and Exige Recall Affects Most Tesla Roadster Models

Mercedes-Benz Parent Company to Announce New Electric Vehicle Partner - Could it be Tesla?

Mercedes-Benz Parent Company to Announce New Electric Vehicle Partner - Could it be Tesla?

In a few hours from now, Mercedes-Benz's parent company Daimler AG, will announce details on a new "strategic cooperation" for its electric car business. While the German firm did not disclose the name of its partner, rumor has it that it could be Tesla Motors as the two companies have already struck a deal for the Smart EV program which involves the outfitting of 1,000 electric Fortwos with Tesla's lithium ion battery pack and charging systems. We'll update this story as more details become available.

READ MORE - Mercedes-Benz Parent Company to Announce New Electric Vehicle Partner - Could it be Tesla?

Mercedes-Benz Parent Company to Announce New Electric Vehicle Partner - Could it be Tesla?

Mercedes-Benz Parent Company to Announce New Electric Vehicle Partner - Could it be Tesla?

In a few hours from now, Mercedes-Benz's parent company Daimler AG, will announce details on a new "strategic cooperation" for its electric car business. While the German firm did not disclose the name of its partner, rumor has it that it could be Tesla Motors as the two companies have already struck a deal for the Smart EV program which involves the outfitting of 1,000 electric Fortwos with Tesla's lithium ion battery pack and charging systems. We'll update this story as more details become available.

READ MORE - Mercedes-Benz Parent Company to Announce New Electric Vehicle Partner - Could it be Tesla?

Tesla Accepts More Than 700 Pre-Orders for Model-S in Two Weeks

Tesla Accepts More Than 700 Pre-Orders for Model-S in Two Weeks

In spite of the fact that the first examples of the Model S won't roll off the company's production line in California before late 2011, Tesla Motors has received 711 orders for its all-electric sports sedan in the two weeks that followed the unveiling of the car. The estimated base price of the Model S is $49,900 after a US federal tax credit of $7,500, with customers required to pay a $2,000 refundable deposit. There's also a Signature Edition that will be produced in 2,000 units which requires a hefty $40,000 reserve fee which is also refundable.

The Model S that can accommodate up to seven passengers -five adults and two children at the rear cargo area- features an electric drivetrain launching the sports sedan from zero to 60mph (96km/h) in 5.6 seconds and on to a an electronically limited top speed of 120 mph (209 km/h).

The sports sedan come with three available battery pack choices that offer a range of 160, 230, or 300 miles (257, 370 or 482 kilometers) per charge. The lithium-ion batteries can be recharged from any 120V, 208V or 240V outlet or quick-charged from an external direct current supply in 45 minutes.

READ MORE - Tesla Accepts More Than 700 Pre-Orders for Model-S in Two Weeks