Tesla Tweaks Roadster for its Final Run in Europe, Asia and Australia

While the Tesla Roadster is no longer in production for the North American market, the pure-electric open-top model will continue to be available for a little longer in other regions. To mark the final year of production for Europe, Asia and Australia, Tesla introduced a revised version of the Roadster with new options and enhanced features.
All versions get a rear snow cover and tweaked motor and inverter systems for better performance in snow and ice, Xenon headlamps, an improved air conditioning and different front windscreen seals that make the cabin quieter.
Furthermore, there are two new Mobile Connectors for charging in Europe and Japan.
Tesla said the final edition will be available with three additional shades including Cosmic Black, Galactic Gray and Magma Orange, with new, complimentary interior colors.

PHOTO GALLERY

Tesla Losses Soar to $154.3 million in 2010, Despite Gains in Revenue

Tesla Motors has just released a preliminary, unaudited financial report concerning the year than ended on Dec. 31, 2010. The company reported losses of US$51.4 million in Q4 2010 and US$154.3 million for 2010, which was almost triple the US$55.74 million loss for the year ending Dec. 31, 2009.

The EV automaker's revenue, however, rose approximately 5 percent in 2010 to $116.7 million. Revenues for the fourth quarter of 2010 were US$36.3 million, a 16% increase from the US$31.2 million reported in the prior quarter. Tesla added that gross margin improved to 26% for the full year 2010, up from 9% for 2009.
The company 's future plans include the launch of the Model S, which is scheduled to go on sale in the middle of next year. Scroll down to read Tesla CEO Elon Musk's statement.

“We are very pleased to report continued revenue growth, improving margins and a steady progression in our Roadster and powertrain activities,” said Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla Motors. “Our powertrain team delivered solid results, with an increase in orders and record deliveries of battery packs and chargers for the Daimler Smart fortwo electric drive, the completion of our development program for the Daimler A-Class, and the commencement of the phase 1 development program for the Toyota RAV4 EV.”
“The highlight of the quarter was our on-time completion of the first drivable Model S alpha,” continued Musk. “The quality and level of refinement of the alpha demonstrates the superb job of our design, vehicle engineering and powertrain teams. They have embraced the opportunity to build an EV from the ground up and have produced a vehicle which shows great potential to deliver superior aerodynamics, stability and handling, crash safety, performance and range. We believe the Model S is well on its way toward becoming the vehicle of choice for 2012.”

2011 New Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet includes

The highly appealing and emotionally charged Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet is the latest addition to the successful E-Class line-up. The open-top two-door model, which went on sale on 11 January 2010, features a classic fabric soft top, making for a stylistically pure cabriolet feeling. Viewed from the side, the new model is an intriguing proposition - with its clear proportions and a flawless cabriolet silhouette.

2011 New Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet

In keeping with the motto "four seasons, four personalities", all-year-round suitability was right at the top of the developers' list of priorities. With the new E-Class Cabriolet, the cabriolet season lasts the whole year because, while many cabriolets tend to disappear from the roads of Western Europe in the autumn, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet (length/breadth/height: 4698/1786/1402 mm) provides driving pleasure and comfort whether the roof is open or closed.

2011 New Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet

The soft top can be opened and closed fully automatically within 20 seconds - even when driving at speeds of up to 40 km/h. The cabriolet roof is stowed in a special compartment behind the rear panel. A retractable cover separates the soft top compartment from the boot area; it must be closed in order to close the soft top. If the roof is to remain closed, the cover can be slid rearwards, in which case the boot capacity is increased by 90 litres to 390 litres. A through-loading feature is included as standard for the new Cabriolet, as is EASY-ENTRY - a manually operated entry and exit aid for the rear passengers.

2011 New Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet

The powerplants for the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet are equally innovative: the new direct-injection diesel and petrol models combine efficiency with effortlessly superior power delivery. The exemplary, low fuel consumption has not only been achieved because of the new engines, but also with a number of practical measures. These include on-demand activation of the steering and fuel pumps, the use of tyres with low rolling resistance and an alternator control system which takes account of the current driving situation and the vehicle's electrical power requirements, plus the crucial factor of outstanding aerodynamics. The Cabriolet's cd figure of 0.28 is the best in its class, marking a continuation of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class success story in the field of aerodynamics.

2011 New Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet

In 1989, Mercedes-Benz introduced a world premiere in the shape of a draught-stop for the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class, followed in 2004 by the AIRSCARF® neck-level heating system to further enhance comfort in open-top models. Now comes another world-first: the AIRCAP® automatic draught-stop, which can be activated at the push of a button, greatly reduces turbulence in the interior of the new Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet, creating a sea of warm air. It is also much easier to implement and use than conventional draught-stops: there is no tricky installation, the two individual rear seats remain free and the Cabriolet's flowing side lines remain uninterrupted. AIRCAP® is therefore a classic Mercedes innovation: functional, comfort-enhancing, elegant and safe.

2011 New Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet

AIRCAP® consists of two components: a wind deflector that can be extended by around six centimetres with a net in the windscreen frame and a draught-stop between the rear seats.

2011 New Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet

As well as enhancing occupant comfort and wellbeing, the reduction in draught when AIRCAP® is activated (it can be activated at speeds of up to 160 km/h and remains in use right up to the car's top speed) reduces the interior noise level - so passengers in all seats find it far easier to communicate.

2011 New Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet

The Cabriolet Comfort package includes AIRCAP® with AIRSCARF®. This patented system functions like an invisible scarf, which warms the occupants' head and neck areas. AIRSCARF® is integrated into the backrests of the front seats and provides warm air through outlets in the head restraints.

2011 New Mercedes E-Class Cabriolet

The Mercedes engineers have modified this unique innovation specifically for the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet: in this model, an adjustment wheel pivots the outlet nozzle upwards and downwards by a total of 36 degrees over and above the head restraint height adjustment, meaning that the driver and front passenger can enjoy the unique neck-level heating regardless of how short or tall they are.

2011 Tesla Electric Sports Cars Roadster 2.5

2011 Tesla Electric Sports Cars Roadster 2.5

Tesla launched the new Roadster this week and is delivering to customers now. More than 1,200 current Tesla owners in at least 23 countries have logged over five million electric miles in their Roadsters. CHICHESTER, UK — Tesla Motors (TSLA) will unveil its next-generation sports car to the public this weekend at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. The latest version of revolutionary electric sports car, Tesla Roadster 2.5.

‘Goodwood is one of the most beloved motoring events in the world and a highlight of the English summer – so it’s only appropriate that this iconic celebration will be the public launch of the latest Roadster,’ said Cristiano Carlutti, Tesla’s Vice President of European Operations.

The Festival of Speed is the world's largest motoring garden party - a unique weekend that brings together a heady mix of cars, stars and motor sport 'royalty' to create the largest car culture festival worldwide. Held in the immaculate grounds of Goodwood House, this annual hill-climb extravaganza celebrates all things automotive.

Its two newest Tesla Stores–in Newport Beach, California, and Copenhagen, Denmark–will open with evening receptions. Both will have the Roadster 2.5 on display. The 2011 Tesla Roadster 2.5 features improvements in design and technology, including a new front fascia, rear diffuser, improved seat comfort, sound dampening and an optional large touch screen navigation system with back-up camera.

Inside, the most significant alteration is undoubtedly more comfortable seats, which have larger bolsters and now include a lumbar support system. Interior noise has been reduced in several ways, including new sound-suppressing front fender liners.

Finally, Tesla has further modified the Roadster’s power-control system, adding unspecified hardware to permit “spirited driving” (which we presume means maximum electric power) in exceptionally hot climates.
Prospective customers can see the Tesla Roadster 2.5 at Goodwood or at the London showroom at 49-51 Cheval Place in Knightsbridge, near Harrod’s. Tesla is now delivering this latest version of the car in all Tesla markets in Europe, Asia and North America.

Tesla Model S Concept

Tesla Model S Concept, 2009

The Tesla Model S, which carries its charger onboard, can be recharged from any 120V, 240V or 480V outlet, with the latter taking only 45 minutes. By recharging their car while they stop for a meal, drivers can go from LA to New York in approximately the same time as a gasoline car. Moreover, the floor-mounted battery pack is designed to be changed out in less time than it takes to fill a gas tank, allowing for the possibility of battery-pack swap stations.

Building on Proven Technology
Tesla is the only production automaker already selling highway-capable EVs in North America or Europe. With 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds, the Tesla Roadster outperforms almost all sports cars in its class yet is six times as energy efficient as gas guzzlers and delivers 244 miles per charge. Tesla has delivered nearly 300 Roadsters, and nearly 1,000 more customers are on the wait list.

Teslas do not require routine oil changes, and they have far fewer moving (and breakable) parts than internal combustion engine vehicles. They qualify for federal and state tax credits, rebates, sales tax exemptions, free parking, commuter-lane passes and other perks. Tesla Model S costs roughly $5 to drive 230 miles - a bargain even if gasoline were $1 per gallon.

The anticipated base price of the Tesla Model S is $49,900 after a federal tax credit of $7,500. The company has not released options pricing. Three battery pack choices will offer a range of 160, 230 or 300 miles per charge.

Convenience and utility bullet points:
* Up to 300-mile range
* 45-minute QuickCharge
* 5-minute battery swap
* Charges from 110V, 220V or 440V
* Seating for 5 adults + 2 child seats
* Unique hatch for oversized items
* 60/40 flat-folding rear seat
* 2nd trunk under hood
* EPA Roominess Index 121.6
* More room than station wagons
* 17-inch infotainment touchscreen
* 3G wireless connectivity

Tesla Model S powertrain includes a liquid-cooled 9-inch motor, floor-mounted battery pack and a single-speed gearbox, delivering effortless acceleration, responsive handling and quiet simplicity - no fancy clutchwork or gear-shifting required. Tesla Model S costs as little as $4 to fully charge - a bargain even if gasoline dropped to $1 per gallon. You can have affordable fun while being socially responsible.

Technical specs:
* 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds
* ¼ mile in 14 seconds
* 120 mph top speed
* Braking 60-0 mph 135 feet
* 42 kWh battery storage system standard
* 70 kWh and greater battery storage systems optional
* 9- inch liquid cooled electric motor
* Single-speed transaxle gearbox
* Curb Weight 3825 lbs
* Overall Length 196"
* Wheelbase 116.5"
* All-wheel-drive available (option available in future production models)
* Right hand drive available

The Tesla Model S Concept is a drivable vehicle that exemplifies Tesla's "no compromises" philosophy - an elegantly refined luxury sedan delivering optimal performance without sacrificing efficiency. Designed by Franz von Holzhausen, the car's aggressive stance gives way to a modern silhouette, with minimal front and rear overhangs for maximum space efficiency. The car's mature face defines the future of the Tesla brand and incorporates the touches from the Tesla Roadster. Environmentally friendly materials are incorporated throughout, including water-based paint for the exterior, chrome-free vegetable tanned Italian leather on interior, and 100 percent recycled PET carpeting from Futuris.

Other details:
* Panoramic roof with sliding moon roof
* Retracting door handles for improved aerodynamics
* Full-time 3G connectivity with Internet, HD and satellite radio
* Push button "gear" selector
* Brembo brakes
* Automatic rear lift gate
* 21-inch wheels, Front Tires 245/35ZR21, Rear Tires 285/30ZR21
* 17-inch haptic touchscreen and customizable vehicle information display
* Fully digital instrument cluster
* LED and neon headlight and taillights, with xenon Hella low beams
* Smart-key power and push button gear selector
* Brembo brake system with new one-piece monobloc calipers and integral stiffening bridge to optimize performance
* Front brake system:
o Brembo Gran Turismo
o Brembo 6-piston Monobloc Calipers
o Brembo 405x34mm 2-Piece Floating Slotted Discs with Billet Aluminum Hats
* Rear brake system:
o Brembo Gran Turismo
o Brembo 4-piston Monobloc Calipers
o Brembo 380x28mm 2-Piece Slotted Discs with Billet Aluminum Hat

Tesla Model S Concept

Tesla Model S Concept, 2009

The Tesla Model S, which carries its charger onboard, can be recharged from any 120V, 240V or 480V outlet, with the latter taking only 45 minutes. By recharging their car while they stop for a meal, drivers can go from LA to New York in approximately the same time as a gasoline car. Moreover, the floor-mounted battery pack is designed to be changed out in less time than it takes to fill a gas tank, allowing for the possibility of battery-pack swap stations.

Building on Proven Technology
Tesla is the only production automaker already selling highway-capable EVs in North America or Europe. With 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds, the Tesla Roadster outperforms almost all sports cars in its class yet is six times as energy efficient as gas guzzlers and delivers 244 miles per charge. Tesla has delivered nearly 300 Roadsters, and nearly 1,000 more customers are on the wait list.

Teslas do not require routine oil changes, and they have far fewer moving (and breakable) parts than internal combustion engine vehicles. They qualify for federal and state tax credits, rebates, sales tax exemptions, free parking, commuter-lane passes and other perks. Tesla Model S costs roughly $5 to drive 230 miles - a bargain even if gasoline were $1 per gallon.

The anticipated base price of the Tesla Model S is $49,900 after a federal tax credit of $7,500. The company has not released options pricing. Three battery pack choices will offer a range of 160, 230 or 300 miles per charge.

Convenience and utility bullet points:
* Up to 300-mile range
* 45-minute QuickCharge
* 5-minute battery swap
* Charges from 110V, 220V or 440V
* Seating for 5 adults + 2 child seats
* Unique hatch for oversized items
* 60/40 flat-folding rear seat
* 2nd trunk under hood
* EPA Roominess Index 121.6
* More room than station wagons
* 17-inch infotainment touchscreen
* 3G wireless connectivity

Tesla Model S powertrain includes a liquid-cooled 9-inch motor, floor-mounted battery pack and a single-speed gearbox, delivering effortless acceleration, responsive handling and quiet simplicity - no fancy clutchwork or gear-shifting required. Tesla Model S costs as little as $4 to fully charge - a bargain even if gasoline dropped to $1 per gallon. You can have affordable fun while being socially responsible.

Technical specs:
* 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds
* ¼ mile in 14 seconds
* 120 mph top speed
* Braking 60-0 mph 135 feet
* 42 kWh battery storage system standard
* 70 kWh and greater battery storage systems optional
* 9- inch liquid cooled electric motor
* Single-speed transaxle gearbox
* Curb Weight 3825 lbs
* Overall Length 196"
* Wheelbase 116.5"
* All-wheel-drive available (option available in future production models)
* Right hand drive available

The Tesla Model S Concept is a drivable vehicle that exemplifies Tesla's "no compromises" philosophy - an elegantly refined luxury sedan delivering optimal performance without sacrificing efficiency. Designed by Franz von Holzhausen, the car's aggressive stance gives way to a modern silhouette, with minimal front and rear overhangs for maximum space efficiency. The car's mature face defines the future of the Tesla brand and incorporates the touches from the Tesla Roadster. Environmentally friendly materials are incorporated throughout, including water-based paint for the exterior, chrome-free vegetable tanned Italian leather on interior, and 100 percent recycled PET carpeting from Futuris.

Other details:
* Panoramic roof with sliding moon roof
* Retracting door handles for improved aerodynamics
* Full-time 3G connectivity with Internet, HD and satellite radio
* Push button "gear" selector
* Brembo brakes
* Automatic rear lift gate
* 21-inch wheels, Front Tires 245/35ZR21, Rear Tires 285/30ZR21
* 17-inch haptic touchscreen and customizable vehicle information display
* Fully digital instrument cluster
* LED and neon headlight and taillights, with xenon Hella low beams
* Smart-key power and push button gear selector
* Brembo brake system with new one-piece monobloc calipers and integral stiffening bridge to optimize performance
* Front brake system:
o Brembo Gran Turismo
o Brembo 6-piston Monobloc Calipers
o Brembo 405x34mm 2-Piece Floating Slotted Discs with Billet Aluminum Hats
* Rear brake system:
o Brembo Gran Turismo
o Brembo 4-piston Monobloc Calipers
o Brembo 380x28mm 2-Piece Slotted Discs with Billet Aluminum Hat

Tesla Model S Concept

Tesla Model S Concept, 2009

The Tesla Model S, which carries its charger onboard, can be recharged from any 120V, 240V or 480V outlet, with the latter taking only 45 minutes. By recharging their car while they stop for a meal, drivers can go from LA to New York in approximately the same time as a gasoline car. Moreover, the floor-mounted battery pack is designed to be changed out in less time than it takes to fill a gas tank, allowing for the possibility of battery-pack swap stations.

Building on Proven Technology
Tesla is the only production automaker already selling highway-capable EVs in North America or Europe. With 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds, the Tesla Roadster outperforms almost all sports cars in its class yet is six times as energy efficient as gas guzzlers and delivers 244 miles per charge. Tesla has delivered nearly 300 Roadsters, and nearly 1,000 more customers are on the wait list.

Teslas do not require routine oil changes, and they have far fewer moving (and breakable) parts than internal combustion engine vehicles. They qualify for federal and state tax credits, rebates, sales tax exemptions, free parking, commuter-lane passes and other perks. Tesla Model S costs roughly $5 to drive 230 miles - a bargain even if gasoline were $1 per gallon.

The anticipated base price of the Tesla Model S is $49,900 after a federal tax credit of $7,500. The company has not released options pricing. Three battery pack choices will offer a range of 160, 230 or 300 miles per charge.

Convenience and utility bullet points:
* Up to 300-mile range
* 45-minute QuickCharge
* 5-minute battery swap
* Charges from 110V, 220V or 440V
* Seating for 5 adults + 2 child seats
* Unique hatch for oversized items
* 60/40 flat-folding rear seat
* 2nd trunk under hood
* EPA Roominess Index 121.6
* More room than station wagons
* 17-inch infotainment touchscreen
* 3G wireless connectivity

Tesla Model S powertrain includes a liquid-cooled 9-inch motor, floor-mounted battery pack and a single-speed gearbox, delivering effortless acceleration, responsive handling and quiet simplicity - no fancy clutchwork or gear-shifting required. Tesla Model S costs as little as $4 to fully charge - a bargain even if gasoline dropped to $1 per gallon. You can have affordable fun while being socially responsible.

Technical specs:
* 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds
* ¼ mile in 14 seconds
* 120 mph top speed
* Braking 60-0 mph 135 feet
* 42 kWh battery storage system standard
* 70 kWh and greater battery storage systems optional
* 9- inch liquid cooled electric motor
* Single-speed transaxle gearbox
* Curb Weight 3825 lbs
* Overall Length 196"
* Wheelbase 116.5"
* All-wheel-drive available (option available in future production models)
* Right hand drive available

The Tesla Model S Concept is a drivable vehicle that exemplifies Tesla's "no compromises" philosophy - an elegantly refined luxury sedan delivering optimal performance without sacrificing efficiency. Designed by Franz von Holzhausen, the car's aggressive stance gives way to a modern silhouette, with minimal front and rear overhangs for maximum space efficiency. The car's mature face defines the future of the Tesla brand and incorporates the touches from the Tesla Roadster. Environmentally friendly materials are incorporated throughout, including water-based paint for the exterior, chrome-free vegetable tanned Italian leather on interior, and 100 percent recycled PET carpeting from Futuris.

Other details:
* Panoramic roof with sliding moon roof
* Retracting door handles for improved aerodynamics
* Full-time 3G connectivity with Internet, HD and satellite radio
* Push button "gear" selector
* Brembo brakes
* Automatic rear lift gate
* 21-inch wheels, Front Tires 245/35ZR21, Rear Tires 285/30ZR21
* 17-inch haptic touchscreen and customizable vehicle information display
* Fully digital instrument cluster
* LED and neon headlight and taillights, with xenon Hella low beams
* Smart-key power and push button gear selector
* Brembo brake system with new one-piece monobloc calipers and integral stiffening bridge to optimize performance
* Front brake system:
o Brembo Gran Turismo
o Brembo 6-piston Monobloc Calipers
o Brembo 405x34mm 2-Piece Floating Slotted Discs with Billet Aluminum Hats
* Rear brake system:
o Brembo Gran Turismo
o Brembo 4-piston Monobloc Calipers
o Brembo 380x28mm 2-Piece Slotted Discs with Billet Aluminum Hat