Tesla Motors Inc. said Jan. 11 it has begun taking orders for its all-electric Roadster Sport high-performance sports car.
San Carlos, Calif.-based Tesla plans to begin producing the all-electric, zero-emission Model S five-passenger sedan in 2011. The Roadster Sport starts at $128,500 in the United States. Deliveries begin in late June.
The Roadster Sport can travel 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds, compared with 3.9 seconds for the standard Roadster. It comes with a hand-wound stator and increased winding density for lower resistance and higher peak torque. In addition to Yokohama's Ultra High Performance tires, the Roadster Sport has improved suspension with adjustable dampers and anti-roll bars that will be tuned to the driver's preference, the company said.
"This car can beat nearly anything in its price class, yet it is twice as efficient as compact hybrid sedans," said Michael van der Sande, Tesla's senior vice president of global sales, service and marketing. "If you refuse to compromise on performance or the environment, the Roadster Sport is your only option."
Tesla has delivered more than 150 Roadsters to customers, and about 1,100 people are on the waiting list. Customers who haven?t taken delivery may upgrade to the Roadster Sport.
