Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com Autoblog Green http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry.<![CDATA[Drive the Model S (or maybe just the Tesla Roadster) in Gran Turismo 5]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/drive-the-model-s-or-maybe-just-the-tesla-roadster-in-gran-tur/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/drive-the-model-s-or-maybe-just-the-tesla-roadster-in-gran-tur/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/11/drive-the-model-s-or-maybe-just-the-tesla-roadster-in-gran-tur/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Yes, we know this isn't a Tesla. Watch the video after the jump.

Speaking to the video game freaks at IGN, video game designer Kazunori Yamauchi revealed that either the Tesla Roadster or the Model S will be available to drive in the upcoming Gran Turismo 5. We already knew that "the latest model" from Tesla would be in the game to drive and maybe smash all to hell, and the Model S would be a fun new option. Yamauchi mentions a vehicle called the Roadster S (while the video shows a picture of the Fisker Karma) and Yamauchi confirms it will appear in GT5. He also says he wants to get behind the wheel of the car IRL. No kidding. Watch the video after the jump.

Until GT5 releases in March, virtual Roadsters can be driven in Project Gotham Racing 4. Thanks to Patrick M. for the tip!

[Source: IGN]

Continue reading Drive the Model S (or maybe just the Tesla Roadster) in Gran Turismo 5

Drive the Model S (or maybe just the Tesla Roadster) in Gran Turismo 5 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 11 Nov 2009 16:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gran turismoGran Turismo 5gran turismo sgran turismo teslaGranTurismoGranTurismo5GranTurismoSGranTurismoTeslagt5ignKazunori YamauchiKazunoriYamauchimodel s gt5ModelSGt5tesla model stesla video gameTeslaModelSTeslaVideoGameWed, 11 Nov 2009 16:04:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Elon Musk says Fisker is "very far" from overcoming EV hurdles]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/report-elon-musk-says-fisker-is-very-far-from-overcoming-ev-h/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/report-elon-musk-says-fisker-is-very-far-from-overcoming-ev-h/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/07/report-elon-musk-says-fisker-is-very-far-from-overcoming-ev-h/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



In some ways, the all-electric Tesla Roadster and the plug-in hybrid Fisker Karma don't compete. The difference in powertrains, which will filter down to the two compaies' lower-cost models, the Tesla Model S and Fisker's Project Nina vehicle, means that slightly different consumers are going to be interested in these cars. In other ways, though, Fisker and Tesla go head-to-head for the luxury green car market, and Tesla CEO Elon Musk isn't afraid to fan the competition flames a bit.

According to Delaware Online, Musk recently told a Delaware audience (really, Delaware?) that, while he hopes Fisker succeeds, he has "some reservations about the feasibility of Fisker's approach." Why? Because "Fisker is very far from overcoming those [engineering obstacles to build an electric car]." Subtle.

This isnt' the first time there's been contention between the two. In courtrooms last year, Fisker and Tesla fought a battle over insider information that ended with "complete vindication" for Fisker. We'll see if this latest dis causes any further comment from Fisker - a company not known for taking it lying down.

[Source: Delaware Online via earth2tech]

REPORT: Elon Musk says Fisker is "very far" from overcoming EV hurdles originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 07 Nov 2009 18:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>elon muskElonMuskfiskerFisker AutomotiveFiskerAutomotivehenrik fiskerHenrikFiskerteslatesla motorsTeslaMotorsSat, 07 Nov 2009 18:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Tesla Taxi would be fun to ride in, but it's just for show]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/01/tesla-taxi-would-be-fun-to-ride-in-but-its-just-for-show/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/01/tesla-taxi-would-be-fun-to-ride-in-but-its-just-for-show/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/01/tesla-taxi-would-be-fun-to-ride-in-but-its-just-for-show/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Some people love their profession so much they decorate their cars to show the world how they earn their beans. Such is the case of the owner of a New York taxi company who lives near Monaco and operates mostly hybrid taxis in the Big Apple. Apparently, he has a few beans to show off. The car in question has been painted in the iconic yellow and black taxi cab colors and was exhibited at the French Côte d'Azur where it caused a bit of a sensation. It won't be used to ferry customers around, but that option might still be coming some day to Abu Dhabi and Qatar.

[Source: Le Blog Auto]

Tesla Taxi would be fun to ride in, but it's just for show originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 01 Nov 2009 15:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cote dazurCoteDazurny taxiNyTaxitaxitaxi paintTaxiPaintteslatesla roadsterTeslaRoadsterSun, 01 Nov 2009 15:07:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Tesla gets creative $28 million tax incentive in California]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/report-tesla-gets-creative-28-million-tax-incetive-in-californ/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/report-tesla-gets-creative-28-million-tax-incetive-in-californ/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/29/report-tesla-gets-creative-28-million-tax-incetive-in-californ/#commentsFiled under: ,


While not every state offers as big a rebate on the Tesla Roadster as Colorado does, there is a federal tax credit of $7,500 available to people who buy the electric sports car. Drivers aren't the only ones that various governments want to help in getting electric vehicles on the road. Tesla Motors itself will benefit from a favorable bit of tax massaging by state of California Treasurer Bill Lockyer.

We've know for a while that Tesla wants to open a new plant in the U.S. to build the Model S and, while Albuquerque was in the running, California has always been more likely. The state certainly has made it a point to offer up tax incentives. The latest offer is to waive the sales tax on EV manufacturing equipment worth about $320 million. Instead of buying the tools directly, Tesla will have the California Alternative Energy and Advanced Transportation Financing Authority, a state entity that was formed almost 30 years ago and doesn't need to pay sales tax on equipment used to make advanced vehicles, hold the deeds for a short while and then give them to Tesla. This creative move will apparently save Tesla almost $29 million dollars, and makes us wish we could do something the next time we need to buy more blogging equipment.

[Source: San Francisco Gate, Reuters]

REPORT: Tesla gets creative $28 million tax incentive in California originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 29 Oct 2009 10:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bill lockyerBillLockyersales taxSalesTaxtaxteslatesla motorstesla tax creditTeslaMotorsTeslaTaxCreditThu, 29 Oct 2009 10:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Tesla Roadster runs 313 miles on a charge in Global Green Challenge]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/tesla-roadster-runs-313-miles-on-a-charge-in-global-green-challe/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/tesla-roadster-runs-313-miles-on-a-charge-in-global-green-challe/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/tesla-roadster-runs-313-miles-on-a-charge-in-global-green-challe/#commentsFiled under: ,

Simon Hackett and co-driver Emilis Prelgauskas with the record setting Roadster - click above for high-res image gallery

It's no secret that how you drive has as much - or more - influence on a vehicle's efficiency than any technology. Case in point is this week's Global Green Challenge in Australia. Simon Hackett shipped his 2008 Tesla Roadster down under for the event and proceeded to set a new world record for a production battery-powered vehicle. Hackett and co-driver Emilis Prelgauskas managed to squeeze 313 miles out of the lithium ion battery pack of the Roadster.

As the drivers crossed the finish, approximately three miles was left on the charge at the end of the run south from Alice Springs. That easily topped the 241-mile run by another Roadster earlier this year in the Rallye Monte Carlo d'Energies Alternatives and the 244 miles the car achieves on the EPA test cycle.

Of course achieving those kinds of range numbers means completely forgoing the performance capabilities of the Roadster, just as it would in any other sports car. The 0-60 in 3.9 seconds and 244 mile range is an either/or choice, you sadly can't have both. Tesla's press release is after the jump.

Gallery: Global Green Challenge Tesla Roadster goes 313 miles


[Source: Tesla]

Continue reading Tesla Roadster runs 313 miles on a charge in Global Green Challenge

Tesla Roadster runs 313 miles on a charge in Global Green Challenge originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 19:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingglobal green challengeGlobalGreenChallengeTeslatesla motorstesla roadstertesla roadster range recordtesla-motorstesla-roadsterTeslaEvTeslaMotorsTeslaRoadsterTeslaRoadsterRangeRecordTue, 27 Oct 2009 19:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Not good: Tesla Roadster, Toyota Prius and VW Touareg meet with disastrous results]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/23/not-good-tesla-roadster-toyota-prius-and-vw-touareg-meet-with/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/23/not-good-tesla-roadster-toyota-prius-and-vw-touareg-meet-with/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/23/not-good-tesla-roadster-toyota-prius-and-vw-touareg-meet-with/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Ouch.

A three-way crash between a Tesla Roadtser, Toyota Prius and a VW Touareg didn't leave a pretty scene behind, but it appears that at least the Tesla driver walked away with only minor bruises. We don't know what happened to the occupants of the other vehicles. According to Autopia, it seems that the Roadster was allegedly stopped when the Prius hit it from behind - going about 50 mph - and pushed the Tesla under the SUV (note the piece of the EV in the VW's rear end). We'll just say it again: Ouch.

UPDATE: More from Autopia.

[Source: Autopia]

Not good: Tesla Roadster, Toyota Prius and VW Touareg meet with disastrous results originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 23 Oct 2009 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>tesla roadsterTeslaRoadstertoyota priusToyotaPriusVW TouaregVwTouaregFri, 23 Oct 2009 14:56:00 EST<![CDATA[World's Largest Rebate? Save $42,000 on Tesla Roadster in Colorado]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/worlds-largest-rebate-save-42-000-on-tesla-roadster-in-colora/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/worlds-largest-rebate-save-42-000-on-tesla-roadster-in-colora/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/worlds-largest-rebate-save-42-000-on-tesla-roadster-in-colora/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Tesla Roadster - Click above image for high-res gallery

We didn't believe it until we verified it with our own eyes, but amazingly it's true: Colorado is offering a $42,083 rebate on the 2009 Tesla Roadster until December 31st. Carry the one, move the decimal point... yep, that's a 38-percent discount on what must be the most desirable electric car currently for sale in the United States.

So, exactly how did this come about? Is the thin air that's distorting people's better judgment? Not exactly. The incentive actually applies to a slew of qualifying hybrid and electric vehicles and will be paid in the form of an income tax credit that's calculated by determining the difference in price of the alt-fuel car or truck as compared to a competitive gas-powered model. In the case of the Tesla Roadster, Colorado figures the EV costs a whopping $50K more than its competitive set... which we imagine might be the Lotus Elise.

Want to take advantage of the rebate but not interested in a fully-electric sportscar? Buyers can also get a $20K rebate on the 2009 Lexus LS 600h L or about three grand on either the new Honda Insight or Toyota Prius. See the complete list in PDF form here.


Gallery: Jason Calacanis' Tesla Roadster


[Source: Green Car Reports]

World's Largest Rebate? Save $42,000 on Tesla Roadster in Colorado originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 16:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coloradocolorado ev rebatecolorado hybrid rebatecolorado rebateColoradoEvRebateColoradoHybridRebateColoradoRebatehybrid rebatehybrid rebatesHybridRebateHybridRebatesTeslatesla motorstesla rebatetesla roadstertesla roadster coloradotesla roadster rebateTeslaMotorsTeslaRebateTeslaRoadsterTeslaRoadsterColoradoTeslaRoadsterRebateThu, 22 Oct 2009 16:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Are Tesla Roadster sales dead? Order online now for Christmas delivery!]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/are-tesla-roadster-sales-dead-order-online-now-for-christmas-de/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/are-tesla-roadster-sales-dead-order-online-now-for-christmas-de/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/are-tesla-roadster-sales-dead-order-online-now-for-christmas-de/#commentsFiled under: ,

2010 Tesla Roadster Sport - click above for high-res image gallery

We just received the October edition of the Tesla Motors newsletter and a careful read indicated a very troubling statement near the end:

If you custom-order your car online, in showrooms or by phone today, you could have your car in time for Christmas.

There have been indications for some time that Roadster sales had stalled and for over a year the company has said that they are sold out through about November 2009. While Tesla claims it has been getting new sales, they have yet to announce any new numbers. If you can custom order a Roadster now (late October) for delivery before Christmas, that certainly indicates that nearly all existing orders have been fulfilled. We contacted Tesla spokeswoman Rachel Konrad who told us:

We are just over 850 deliveries. Like all major manufacturers in production (and those who keep books according to generally accepted accounting principles), we count sales and revenue when cars are delivered. Now that we are ramped up in production, we do not provide data on the order.

Virtually all premium carmakers have been hit hard by the recession, but this certainly doesn't bode well for Tesla. They still have at least two years until deliveries of the Model S are scheduled to start and, apparently, significantly reduced prospects for sales revenue in the interim.


Gallery: First Drive: Tesla Roadster Sport


[Source: Tesla Motors]

Are Tesla Roadster sales dead? Order online now for Christmas delivery! originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 11:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Teslatesla motorstesla roadstertesla salestesla-roadsterTeslaEvTeslaMotorsTeslaRoadsterTeslaSalesThu, 22 Oct 2009 11:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Tesla's temporary gallery opening this Friday in Colorado]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/tesla-temporary-gallery-opening-this-friday-in-colorado/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/tesla-temporary-gallery-opening-this-friday-in-colorado/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/20/tesla-temporary-gallery-opening-this-friday-in-colorado/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Tesla Motors Roadster - Click above for high-res image gallery


It's been little more than a month since Tesla Motors opened its store in München and now comes word that its next location will be swinging open its doors for a "cocktail reception" on Friday. It seems, however, that this outpost in Boulder, Colorado will be somewhat different from its regular retail operations. According to their building permit it will be an "electric automotive demonstration gallery" for technology that includes batteries and chargers. It will also be temporary. The land at 915 Pearl St. was purchased by developers last year and should eventually be occupied by a fancy Italian restaurant with luxury condos on top, but that plan is currently "behind schedule" so, for a while at least, it will be Tesla's Centennial State squat.

The big question is, of course, whether there are more permanent plans for the automaker in the city. Colorado has, until the end of 2009 at least, a very generous tax rebate for electric cars and the city of Boulder boasts the country's first "Smart Grid". Tesla Motors also has family ties in the area. Kimbal Musk, board member and brother of CEO Elon, has a restaurant (that supposedly serves a mean lamburger) just a few blocks away. Considering they reportedly spent almost $148,000 on the renovations, this gallery should be open for a while.

For those of you curious about what kind of scene to expect at the opening party, Tesla now has a post on their company blog about the recent München affair. Apparently it was attended by nearly 400 people who mingled and admired a small bevy of battery-powered Roadsters. Of course, in Colorado there won't be many people saying "ja, es ist schnell" and Kimbal's yellow Founder's Series number five will likely be parked out front. To get a taste for yourselves, hit the jump for a bit of video.


Gallery: 2009 Tesla Roadster v1.5


[Source: Daily Camera / Huffington Post]

Continue reading Tesla's temporary gallery opening this Friday in Colorado

Tesla's temporary gallery opening this Friday in Colorado originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 20 Oct 2009 07:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Boulder ColoradoBoulderColoradoKimbal MuskKimbalMuskTesla Motors GalleryTeslaMotorsGalleryTue, 20 Oct 2009 07:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Lists? Yeah, electric vehicles get on lists. Hopeful, hopeful lists]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/19/lists-yeah-electric-vehicles-get-on-lists/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/19/lists-yeah-electric-vehicles-get-on-lists/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/19/lists-yeah-electric-vehicles-get-on-lists/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Tesla Roadster - Click above for high-res image gallery

Here are five technologies that "could change everything":

  • Advanced car batteries
  • Carbon capture and storage
  • Space-based solar power
  • Utility storage
  • Next-generation biofuels

This is the list culled by the Wall Street Journal, and we note that plug-in vehicles benefit/are tied to four of those five items. All five if you include things like the E85-capable range extender in the plug-in Chevy Volt.

Meanwhile, over at the Seattle Times, Tesla was named one of eight companies that are changing the world. Other companies on the list are working on technical, gadget-y advances (laser broadband streaming data at 1.25 gigabytes a second) and eco-advances (green building materials) and more.

What we take away from these lists is that people have a lot of hope that technology will save us. Somehow, someday. Just wait until a better widget comes along, then all will be well.

[Source: Seattle Times, Wall Street Journal]

Lists? Yeah, electric vehicles get on lists. Hopeful, hopeful lists originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 19 Oct 2009 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>biofuelbiofuelsplug in vehicleplug in vehiclesplug-inplug-in hybridplug-in vehicleplug-in vehiclesPlug-inHybridPlug-inVehiclePlug-inVehiclesPlugInVehiclePlugInVehiclestesla motorsTeslaMotorsMon, 19 Oct 2009 17:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Does a corn-ethanol vehicle beat the Tesla Roadster in lifetime CO<sub>2</sub> emissions?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/16/does-a-corn-ethanol-vehicle-beat-the-tesla-roadster-in-lifetime/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/16/does-a-corn-ethanol-vehicle-beat-the-tesla-roadster-in-lifetime/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/16/does-a-corn-ethanol-vehicle-beat-the-tesla-roadster-in-lifetime/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2010 Tesla Roadster Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery

What does it take for a car to "beat" the Tesla Roadster? With a 0-60 time that blows away almost anything else on four wheels, there aren't many vehicles that are faster. With an all-electric drivetrain, the car sits at the absolute pinnacle (along with every other EV) for lowest tailpipe emissions. But is it possible that a vehicle that burns corn-based ethanol (or gasoline!) can beat the Roadster on overall CO2 emissions?

This is the claim from the unbiased folks at Biofuels Digest, who crunched theoretical numbers like this:
  • The Tesla gets its juice from a power plant that is burning coal, which means it has 2.095 pounds of CO2 per kWh and can go 3.12 miles per kWh.
  • The theoretical corn-ethanol E85-burning vehicle puts out CO2 according to the GREET model (Greenhouse gases, Regulated Emissions, and Energy use in Transportation) for lifecycle emissions and is operating at the proposed new CAFE standards.

Over the vehicles' lifetimes (of 145,000 miles), Biofuels Digest says, the E85 vehicle creates 30 percent fewer CO2 emissions, and the Roadster will even put out 21 percent more CO2 than a car that uses straight gasoline (we tried to dig into the GREET model to see how deep the well-to-wheels model tracks CO2 generation, but didn't see how crop and oil production is specifically handled here. Since GREET has been in development since 1999, we're going to assume the system takes these factors into account). Biofuels Digest uses government data - from the EIA, DOT, Argonne National Lab, etc. - and Tesla's numbers to come to their conclusion. You can find a chart produced by Biofuels Digest after the jump.

At first glance, this reminds us of the Prius vs. Hummer debacle, but we're open to further investigation. Got an opinion?

Gallery: First Drive: Tesla Roadster Sport


[Source: Biofuels Digest via Domestic Fuel]

Continue reading Does a corn-ethanol vehicle beat the Tesla Roadster in lifetime CO2 emissions?

Does a corn-ethanol vehicle beat the Tesla Roadster in lifetime CO2 emissions? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 16 Oct 2009 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuredtelsa motorsTelsaMotorsteslatesla co2tesla corn ethanoltesla e85tesla ethanoltesla roadsterTeslaCo2TeslaCornEthanolTeslaE85TeslaEthanolTeslaRoadsterFri, 16 Oct 2009 14:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Tesla Motors, Capcom giving away a Roadster, five trips to Vegas]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/13/tesla-motors-capcom-giving-away-a-roadster-five-trips-to-vegas/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/13/tesla-motors-capcom-giving-away-a-roadster-five-trips-to-vegas/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/13/tesla-motors-capcom-giving-away-a-roadster-five-trips-to-vegas/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Last night, Tesla Motors turned their Menlo Park store over to video gamers for a promotional event with Capcom. Attendees were given some nice swag, including a Tesla Roadster Hot Wheels car. Why would a video game company be working with Tesla, you ask? Because the maker's new Dark Void video game, due out early next year, features a digital version of Nikola Tesla. See the connection?

Even if you're not a fan of the tenuous connection, you might want to know about this: Capcom and Tesla Motors are partnering to give away a custom Roadster as well as five all-expense paid trips for two to Vegas just for a test drive (ohh, tease!). Interested? Head here and give up some personal information. This is the first car-giveaway promotion that Tesla has ever directly participated in. Winners will be selected in February. One note: the rules say that the "Winner may elect to receive $25,000 in lieu of the Customized Tesla Roadster." Which would you prefer?

[Source: Capcom]

Continue reading Tesla Motors, Capcom giving away a Roadster, five trips to Vegas

Tesla Motors, Capcom giving away a Roadster, five trips to Vegas originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 13 Oct 2009 18:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>capcomdark voidDarkVoidTeslatesla hot wheelstesla motorstesla roadsterTeslaHotWheelsTeslaMotorsTeslaRoadsterTue, 13 Oct 2009 18:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Will Tesla build electric cars in Canada someday?]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/13/will-tesla-build-electric-cars-in-canada-someday/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/13/will-tesla-build-electric-cars-in-canada-someday/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/13/will-tesla-build-electric-cars-in-canada-someday/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Elon Musk - Click to enlarge

The Tesla Roadster is, quintessentially, a California car. Not only is the convertible two-seater perfectly suited for the streets of Santa Monica but the car's home is in the San Francisco/Palo Alto area. Tesla Motors CEO Elon Musk, though, has a lot of ties to Canada and a new profile of the man suggests that as the electric car company grows, it might build future Tesla models in Ontario.

The Star writes that Canada is being considered for Tesla's third model, the "cheap" one that should cost less than $30,000 when it arrives an unspecified number of years (five?) down the road. The value of the Canadian dollar at that time is one of the factors that will determine where that vehicle will be built, Musk said. He also said, "Canadian auto plants are some of the most efficient in North America, so it would be wise for us to take a close look" and that Canadians just might crush hard on his EVs:

Canadians have a strong environmental sensitivity, greater than in the United States. Also in Canada, most of the electricity is renewable from hydro and nuclear, much more so than the U.S., which still uses a lot of coal. I think in some ways it's really a better market.

Maybe not for convertibles 12 months a year, but for EVs? Sure.

[Source: The Star]

Will Tesla build electric cars in Canada someday? originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 13 Oct 2009 17:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Elon MuskElonMuskteslatesla motorsTeslaMotorsTue, 13 Oct 2009 17:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Tesla introduces Mobile Service Rangers, the Geek Squad for EVs]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/13/tesla-introduces-mobile-service-rangers-the-electric-vehicle-su/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/13/tesla-introduces-mobile-service-rangers-the-electric-vehicle-su/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/13/tesla-introduces-mobile-service-rangers-the-electric-vehicle-su/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Doctors may not make many house calls anymore, but Tesla Motors believes an at-home service is just the ticket for its pricey electric cars. The company recently announced a new Tesla Mobile Service Rangers program that makes getting the recommended annual service or any other repairs taken care of an effortless event. The Rangers (no word on if they wear brightly colored outfits and/or morph) have the ability to diagnose problems remotely before driving their service vehicles to where the Roadsters are. Tesla says that Roadster owners and cues from "pioneering retailers" like Zappos and Geek Squad helped develop the Rangers idea. At some point in the future, the Ranger service will be available wherever Roadsters are sold.

The service isn't cheap - it costs $1 per round-trip mile with a minimum charge of $100 - but if you can afford the car in the first place, then it shouldn't be too big of a hardship. We don't have the heart to calculate the cost for "Roadster owners in Honolulu, Anchorage, Banff and other locations", which Tesla's press release states can now have peace of mind. It might just be cheaper to buy two Roadsters in case one of them breaks.

[Source: Tesla Motors]

Tesla introduces Mobile Service Rangers, the Geek Squad for EVs originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 13 Oct 2009 09:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>remote rangersRemoteRangersteslatesla motorstesla rangersTeslaMotorsTeslaRangersTue, 13 Oct 2009 09:04:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Panasonic will supply batteries for the Tesla Model S]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/09/report-panasonic-will-supply-batteries-for-the-tesla-model-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/09/report-panasonic-will-supply-batteries-for-the-tesla-model-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/09/report-panasonic-will-supply-batteries-for-the-tesla-model-s/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Tesla Model S - Click above for high-res image gallery

The battery pack powering the Tesla Model S down the road will reportedly be supplied by Panasonic. Greentech Media broke the news after talking to "sources close to the Japanese electronics maker." Tesla had no comment.

Earlier this week, Panasonic said it had developed a cheaper way to string small laptop batteries together to provide enough power for an automobile. Currently, the Tesla Roadster uses 6,831 small cells (like those used in portable computers) in its battery pack. The Model S is expected to use three different packs, with either 5,500 cells (in the version that gives the car a range of 160 miles) or 8,000 cells (for ranges of 220 or 300 miles; better chemistry in the longer pack makes the difference).

The Model S is expected to go into production in late 2011. Panasonic said its cheaper packs could enter commercial production in 2013.

Gallery: Tesla Model S in motion

tesla-model-s-large-4tesla-model-s-large-2tesla-model-s-large-1tesla-model-s-large-3tesla-model-s-large-5

[Source: Greentech Media, Green Car Advisor]

REPORT: Panasonic will supply batteries for the Tesla Model S originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 09 Oct 2009 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2010 Tesla Roadster Sport - Click above for high-res image gallery

To get from zero to 60 mph in the original Tesla Roadster takes an official 3.9 seconds. The brand new 2010 Roadster Sport beats that with a wonderful 3.7 seconds. Those two-tenths of a second don't look like much on paper, but they make a difference on the road. Perhaps just knowing about the enhanced acceleration makes the Roadster Sport feel faster in the absence of expensive testing equipment, because having driven both, it does feel that way. A lot.

Whatever the reason, when we recently got to take an Obsidian Black model out for a few hours, we couldn't help but notice how incredibly punchy the Sport is, whether bursting away from a stoplight or accelerating to pass on the highway. Sometimes we even slowed down a bit on the highway just to feel the seamless thrust of getting back up to speed. With the 2010 Roadster Sport, the EV grin is still in full effect. Find out what other kinds of fun can be had in a $125,500 Roadster Sport after the jump.


Gallery: First Drive: Tesla Roadster Sport


Photos copyright (C)2009 Sebastian Blanco / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2010 Tesla Roadster Sport improves on original, keeps quirks

First Drive: 2010 Tesla Roadster Sport improves on original, keeps quirks originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 08 Oct 2009 11:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 tesla roadster sport2010TeslaRoadsterSportfeaturedfirst driveFirstDriveroadsterroadster sportRoadsterSportteslatesla roadstertesla roadster sportTeslaRoadsterTeslaRoadsterSportThu, 08 Oct 2009 11:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Fox News criticizes - and misleads viewers on - Tesla, Fisker DOE loans]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/02/fox-news-criticizes-and-misleads-viewers-on-tesla-fisker-do/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/02/fox-news-criticizes-and-misleads-viewers-on-tesla-fisker-do/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/02/fox-news-criticizes-and-misleads-viewers-on-tesla-fisker-do/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Fox News on Fisker, Teska DOE loans - Click above to watch the videos after the jump

Pop quiz: what country is Tesla Motors based in? England? Wrong. What about Fisker Automotive? Finland? Wrong again, but if you gave those two answers, you might be qualified to be on Fox News and criticize the Department of Energy for giving loans to these two companies, both of which are based in California. Fisker got $528.7 million and Tesla Motors was awarded $465 million.

Of course, the DOE loans are intended to be used to bring manufacturing and engineering jobs to the U.S., a bit of information that Fox just barely mentions. Fisker will conduct engineering work in Pontiac, MI and its Irvine, California headquarters for Project Nina, the company's lower-cost plug-in hybrid. Tesla will use the money to bring the Model S to market through a manufacturing facility, most likely to be built somewhere in California.

Fox news anchor Martha MacCallum also seems to enjoy harping on the "Karma" name, as if it's just a hippie car or something, She also made sure to highlight the connection between Fisker and Al Gore, but didn't mention Colin Powell's connection to the company. Watch the video after the jump and read the transcript of the exchange over on Media Matters.

UPDATE: Fisker responds.

[Source: Fox News, Media Matters via Hybrid Cars]

Continue reading Fox News criticizes - and misleads viewers on - Tesla, Fisker DOE loans

Fox News criticizes - and misleads viewers on - Tesla, Fisker DOE loans originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 02 Oct 2009 11:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Peter Rawlinson custom-designed sports car - Click above for hi-res image

Peter Rawlinson might not be the most familiar name to green car fans, but he's been working on plug-in vehicles and in the auto industry for many years. Rawlinson, whose custom sports car is pictured above and who worked on the Th!nk City, just joined Tesla Motors as vice president and chief vehicle engineer. Rawlinson will now be responsible "for the technical execution and delivery of the Model S." Previously, Rawlinson worked on projects for Jaguar, Land Rover, Ford, Honda, BMW and Bentley and led vehicle engineering at Corus Automotive.

Tesla's other new hire is Henry Brice, who will become program director for the Model S. Brice has worked for Ford on the Fiesta, Crown Victoria, Grand Marquis, F-Series and Town Car Vehicle lines.

[Source: Tesla Motors]

Continue reading Tesla Motors announces new senior engineering and manufacturing execs

Tesla Motors announces new senior engineering and manufacturing execs originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 01 Oct 2009 17:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>peter rawlinsonPeterRawlinsonteslatesla motorstesla motors peter rawlinsonTeslaMotorsTeslaMotorsPeterRawlinsonThu, 01 Oct 2009 17:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Tesla Model S to spawn other derivatives including van, CUV, minivan]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/29/tesla-model-s-to-spawn-other-derivatives-including-van-cuv/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/29/tesla-model-s-to-spawn-other-derivatives-including-van-cuv/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/29/tesla-model-s-to-spawn-other-derivatives-including-van-cuv/#commentsFiled under: ,


Tesla Model S - Click above for high-res image gallery

While fans of electric vehicles were largely ecstatic to see Tesla's application for a low cost loan under the Advanced Technology Vehicle Manufacturing program approved a few months ago, not everyone was. Some people were skeptical about giving so much money to a startup with potentially shaky finances. Tesla VP of Business Development Diarmuid OConnell has written a post on the company blog about what Tesla plans to do with the money.

It's been known since long before the DOE approved the loan that the money would be used to complete development of the Model S and build a plant to produce it. Some of the money will also go toward a separate powertrain plant to produce motors, electronics and batteries for the car.

What was new in OConnell's post was this statement:
The Model S platform will also be used for derivatives including a minivan, cross-over utility vehicle and a utility van for fleets and other industrial or civic uses.
It shouldn't come as a surprise that Tesla realizes that it will need a more fleshed out lineup in order to reach long-term viability and the idea of a crossover has been mentioned in the past. This, however, appears to be the first reference of a van and minivan version of the platform, and can only mean good things for all those EV fans.

Gallery: Tesla Model S


[Source: Tesla]

Tesla Model S to spawn other derivatives including van, CUV, minivan originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 29 Sep 2009 11:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Tesla Model S - Click above for high-res image gallery

Recently-resigned Tesla Motors engineering chief Michael Donoughe revealed an interesting tidbit of information on his way out the door. Speaking to Green Car Advisor, Donoughe said that the Model S has been designed to accommodate fast (sub-five minutes) battery swaps. While a quick battery exchange has implications for how the car would be received and used in the real world, Donoughe said that it also helps at the factory when the car is assembled. "As long as you're designing for manufacturing and assembly you can also design for manufacturing, assembly and swap. That's basically what we're looking to do," he told GCA.

Tesla's design "is not at all wedded to Better Place," Donoughe said, referring to the biggest proponent of battery swap technology. The two companies' technologies could work together, he said, but don't have to. Considering that Tesla is planning on selling the Model S, due in late 2011, with different battery options (a base model with 160-mile range pack; and then more expensive packs with 230-mile and 300-mile ranges), figuring out how to swap these different batteries in random locations seems like a logistics problem of tremendous proportions.

Gallery: Tesla Model S


[Source: Green Car Advisor]

REPORT: Tesla Model S was designed with battery swaps in mind originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sun, 27 Sep 2009 19:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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