Tesla Sighting

[bennelson]

yeah, it's pretty small.

The main thing is that it is really LOW.

I guess it is based on some Lotus model.

[jamesqf]

Originally Posted by NoCO2

It looks to be about the size of a Lotus Elise...

Maybe because it IS a Lotus Elise :-) At least I think that's the model... Lotus builds the frame & body, Tesla adds the electric powerplant.

[Thalass]

Actually it's based loosely on the Elise, at least it was to start with. It shares maybe five parts with the Elise, if that. The body is built and assembled in China, and shipped to the US where they fit the batteries and motor.

[jamesqf]

That's odd: Tesla's FAQ site seems to think otherwise: Tesla Motors - FAQs

(Be warned: the site is a POC. You get to click on one question, then the screen grays out, the answer is overlaid on it, and you can't do anything more. If they use similar engineering in their car, I won't be buying one.)

[LostCause]

Tesla outsourced most of the car. The body is a Lotus design, the powertrain comes from AC Propulsion, and the battery is from A123 systems. Tesla is refining and integrating everything into one package.

I realize they are trying to break a stereotype, but I think it's stupid to call that car "green." They are aiming for the same ignorance that thinks top speed and range are inclusive of each other. They get to be green and burn rubber at the same time. What a wonderful fantasy world...

Their engineers are among, if not the best, in the industry, however.

- LostCause