Utilising the company's advanced lithium-ion battery pack, the Model S sprints from 0-60mph in 'under six seconds' on the way to a top speed of 130mph, a sport version apparently cutting the 0-60mph time by a further second.
Telsa are well known for their Roadster (of which 250 have now been delivered), but the Model S has been designed to carry up to seven occupants and their luggage thanks to a large space up front where the engine would normally reside, and a flat-floored interior with stowable seats.
The battery pack is located underneath the floor, which lowers the centre of gravity, as well as enhancing packaging. Tesla says that it will be possible to swap the battery pack for a fully charged one in less time than it takes to fill a conventional car's fuel tank, although the Model S can be recharged from any 120-, 240- or 480V power supply, with an impressive 45-minute charge possible if the highest rating is available - the top variant providing a range of 300-miles in ideal conditions.
The 2011 launch is, however, dependant on Tesla receiving $350 million (about £242 million) in federal loans from the US government, which the company is confident it will receive.
Tesla will expand its dealer network outside the US with Munich and London earmarked for showrooms, possibly as early late 2009. Pricing is predicted to start at $49,900 in the US - about £34,500.
(adapted from http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/)
