Tesla Model S

By Sam Hardy

26th March 2009

The wraps are finally off Tesla's new Model S – a hot electric executive saloon that uses the same lithium-ion battery technology as the Elise-based Roadster.

Revealed today at the company’s Los Angeles base, the S is the second model from the electric car maker, and has been designed to compete with Jaguar’s XF and BMW’s 5-Series, widening Tesla’s appeal.

As you can see from these images, the Model S certainly takes its some of its styling inspiration from the XF, with a four-door coupe-like shape, but features a neat full-length glass sunroof too.

Inside, the Model S boasts seating for five with an extra two seats for children behind. At the front is a large luggage area. The cabin features a huge touchscreen display on the centre console, through which the car's systems are controlled. It even features internet connectivity.

Like the Roadster, the Model S gets a floor-mounted lithium-ion battery pack and electric motor which drives the rear wheels. Weighing in at around 1,700kg, the firm claims 0-60mph in 5.5 seconds and a top speed of 120mph.

Buyers will be able to choose from three battery packs, with ranges of 160 miles, 230 miles and 300 miles. Tesla says that the battery can be partially recharged in just 45 minutes.

While the two-seater Roadster costs around £90,000, the Model S is said to be much cheaper with the entry-level 160-mile model potentially costing less than £40,000. The stunning machine is likely to go on sale in the UK in 2012.