Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Tesla Model S earns 99 out of 100 score from Consumer Reports [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/consumer-reports-scores-tesla-model-s-99-out-of-100/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/consumer-reports-scores-tesla-model-s-99-out-of-100/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/09/consumer-reports-scores-tesla-model-s-99-out-of-100/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Tesla Model S

Consumer Reports is awfully fond of the Tesla Model S. The EV managed to pull down an impressive score of 99 out of 100 in the organization's evaluation, besting the Porsche Panamera Hybrid by a full 16 points. CR calls the battery-operated sedan "the most practical electric car we've ever tested" thanks to its 200 mile range and blistering 5.6-second dash to 60 miles per hour. Testers also had praise for the vehicle's excellent handling characteristics and clever packaging, but found issue with the large touch screen mounted in the center of the dash. According to CR, the screen requires too much time looking down and away from the road.

The publication also called out the car for skipping the spare tire, compressor and run flat tires, but those issues weren't enough to keep the machine from earning a top nod. You can head over to Consumer Reports to read the full review for yourself, and be sure to check out the video below for a better picture of the machine's highlights, including some EV drifting (even CR likes to have some fun).

Continue reading Tesla Model S earns 99 out of 100 score from Consumer Reports [w/video]

Tesla Model S earns 99 out of 100 score from Consumer Reports [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 May 2013 10:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consumer reportsmodel steslatesla model sThu, 09 May 2013 10:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20563544/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/09/consumer-reports-scores-tesla-model-s-99-out-of-100/20563544/article-detail.xml 20563544 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/tesla-model-s-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/tesla-model-s-628.jpg <![CDATA[Watch the Jaws of Life tear apart a Tesla Model S]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/06/watch-the-jaws-of-life-tear-apart-a-tesla-model-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/06/watch-the-jaws-of-life-tear-apart-a-tesla-model-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/06/watch-the-jaws-of-life-tear-apart-a-tesla-model-s/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



As electric vehicles become more prevalent on the roadways, first responders are facing new - and sometimes unknown - challenges when it comes to intense tasks such as the extrication of passengers trapped inside a car. Advanced Extrication, an online training resource for rescue workers, recently posted a video showing how rescuers should respond to vehicles like the Tesla Model S.

The best way to do such a video, of course, is to actually demonstrate the process, so Tesla donated a new Model S just so the Fremont Fire Department could tear it to shreds as the host explains some of the unique dangers specific to electric cars. The unfortunate demo car looks like it just came off the assembly line, meaning it is completely intact to begin with, but we wonder if it would have been more interesting to see how firefighters deal with the car's wiring and DC-DC converter (and other high voltage components) when the vehicle structure has been compromised.

Either way, the entire 37-minute video (posted below) goes in depth showing what rescuers face as they deal with a growing number of EVs. Of course, if all you want to see is the business end of the Jaws of Life going to town on the Model S' subframe, you should skip to the 27-minute mark.

Continue reading Watch the Jaws of Life tear apart a Tesla Model S

Watch the Jaws of Life tear apart a Tesla Model S originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 Mar 2013 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicle safetyfirst respondersjaws of lifemodel steslavehicle extricationvehicle safetyWed, 06 Mar 2013 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20488147/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/06/watch-the-jaws-of-life-tear-apart-a-tesla-model-s/20488147/article-detail.xml 20488147 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/tesla-model-s-jaws-of-life_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/tesla-model-s-jaws-of-life.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #322]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/26/autoblog-podcast-322/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/26/autoblog-podcast-322/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/26/autoblog-podcast-322/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

2014 Jeep Cherokee, Tesla profit, 2014 Bentley Continental Flying Spur, Ford Atlas chief designer Gordon Platto autoblog podcast logo

Episode #322 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Jeff Ross talk about the 2014 Jeep Cherokee, Tesla's cautious announcement of a first-quarter profit, the 2014 Bentley Flying Spur and Zach and Dan share an interview with Gordon Platto, chief designer for the Ford Atlas Concept truck from this year's Detroit Auto Show. We wrap with a couple of your questions, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. Keep reading for our Q&A module for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #322:



Topics:


In the Autoblog Garage:
2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek
2013 Toyota Prius V
2013 Lincoln MKS


Hosts: Dan Roth, Zach Bowman, Jeff Ross


Runtime: 01:26:23

Get the podcast
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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #322

Autoblog Podcast #322 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Feb 2013 14:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 lincoln mks2013 subaru xv crosstrek2013 tesla model s2013 toyota prius v2014 bentley flying spur2014 jeep cherokeeautoblog podcast 322bentleycherokeefeaturedflying spurford atlas conceptgordon plattojeeplincolnmksmodel sprius vsubaruteslatesla profittoyotaxv crostrekTue, 26 Feb 2013 14:45:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #322Autoblog01:26:23 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20477948/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/26/autoblog-podcast-322/20477948/article-detail.xml 20477948 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Musk says <i>New York Times</i> debacle may have cost Tesla $100 million]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/26/musk-says-new-york-times-debacle-may-have-cost-tesla-100/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/26/musk-says-new-york-times-debacle-may-have-cost-tesla-100/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/26/musk-says-new-york-times-debacle-may-have-cost-tesla-100/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Tesla CEO Elon Musk being interviewed by Bloomberg TV - screencap

Despite the old chestnut that there's no such thing as bad publicity, there's always a cost incurred - sometimes it's hidden, and sometimes it's front and center. Enigmatic Tesla CEO Elon Musk seems to think his company's now-infamous Model S range dustup with The New York Times is falling squarely into the latter category. According to Musk, fallout from the back-and-forth battle over the newspaper's cold-weather road trip story may have decimated Tesla's stock value by as much as $100 million. Musk believes the report resulted in a lot of cancelled orders, probably costing Tesla "a few hundred" Model S purchases.

According to the report, Tesla's shares have tumbled some 12 percent (going from $39.24 to $34.38) since the report was published. Bloomberg further notes that the company's market capitalization has skidded by around $553 million over that same period. With the company's stock-market value pegged at $3.91 billion, $100m represents a not insignificant chunk of money to Tesla.

So how does Musk feel about embattled Times writer John Broder, whose controversial report he previously called "fake"? During the interview with Bloomberg TV, which you can watch below, Musk opines, "I don't think it should be the end of his career - I don't even think necessarily he should be fired - but I do think he fudged an article." No word has surfaced about any actions taken against Broder after the Times' public editor admitted he did "not especially" exercise "good judgement" in the course of his reporting.

There's a lot of interesting ground covered in the Musk interview, including a discussion on the impact of early adopters on Model S sales, as well as how demand might be affected if the federal $7,500 tax credit were to end, so check it out by scrolling below.

Continue reading Musk says New York Times debacle may have cost Tesla $100 million

Musk says New York Times debacle may have cost Tesla $100 million originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 Feb 2013 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 tesla model sbloomberg tvelon muskevmodel snew york timesteslatesla new york timestesla rangethe new york timesvideoTue, 26 Feb 2013 13:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20478762/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/26/musk-says-new-york-times-debacle-may-have-cost-tesla-100/20478762/article-detail.xml 20478762 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/tesla-ceo-elon-musk-bloomberg-tv_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/tesla-ceo-elon-musk-bloomberg-tv.jpg <![CDATA[And now for a different sort of Tesla Model S review...]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/24/and-now-for-a-different-sort-of-tesla-model-s-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/24/and-now-for-a-different-sort-of-tesla-model-s-review/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/24/and-now-for-a-different-sort-of-tesla-model-s-review/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

KBB Tesla Model S Video

Our friends at Kelley Blue Book have taken an unflinching look at the Tesla Model S in a new video. The crew originally planned to pack up and whip the electric sedan all the way to Las Vegas from Los Angeles, but got sidelined by a flat tire. The ensuing detour to a Tesla service center resulted in a day of hopping from charge point to charge point and a number of close calls on the range front. Confronted with cold temperatures, a desire to make time and some serious topography, the Model S pulled up short on projected range but never left the guys stranded.

The team eventually makes it to Vegas and discovers the aggravation of trying to charge the car with anything other than the company's supercharger stations. The return trip goes quite a bit better, however, and KBB starts to figure out what makes the Model S so special. We won't ruin the end for you. You can check out the full clip below.

Continue reading And now for a different sort of Tesla Model S review...

And now for a different sort of Tesla Model S review... originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 24 Feb 2013 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 tesla model skbbkelley blue bookmodel steslavideoSun, 24 Feb 2013 18:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20473446/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/24/and-now-for-a-different-sort-of-tesla-model-s-review/20473446/article-detail.xml 20473446 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/kbb-model-s-video-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/kbb-model-s-video-628.jpg <![CDATA[Tesla takes <i>New York Times</i> to task for damning Model S review]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/tesla-takes-new-york-times-to-task-for-damning-model-s-re/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/tesla-takes-new-york-times-to-task-for-damning-model-s-re/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/14/tesla-takes-new-york-times-to-task-for-damning-model-s-re/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The social media tête-à-tête between The New York Times and Tesla CEO Elon Musk, stemming from a defamatory review by John Broder of the Model S and Tesla's new "Supercharger" network on the East Coast, is heating up in a major way. Just yesterday we summarized the Twitter spat, and now Musk has expanded upon the data recorded during Broder's test drive - adding major credence to the criticism of the NYT writer.

The smoking gun in this case is the information that was captured by the data recorder in Broder's loaned Model S. The data recording function is one that is only activated for consumers when permission has been expressly granted, says Musk, but is always turned on in the case of media vehicles. Thusly equipped, Broder's vehicle was keeping track of speed, charging data, map data and more, presumably without the writer's foreknowledge.

The evidence recorded by the in-car systems happens to contravene Broder's most damning claims of the Tesla, says Musk in his article titled A Most Peculiar Test Drive. First, and perhaps most shockingly, the Model S "State of Charge" log shows that Broder's test car "never ran out of energy at any time." Broder's reporting indicated that the car ran completely out of juice at one point and had to be evacuated on a flatbed truck. The data log also points out that the trip was made at speeds ranging from 65 to 81 miles per hour, where the writer claimed to have set the cruise control at 54 mph, with periods of driving as slowly as 45 mph.

Musk's piece also indicates that Broder - who was ostensibly driving to test the charging network - didn't tell the truth about how long he charged his Model S. At one stop he specifically writes that he charged the car for 58 minutes on his second stop, where the log indicates that he was on the Supercharger for just 47 minutes. Tesla claims that the writer charged his car to 90 percent of capacity on his first stop, 72 percent on his second and just 28 percent on his third - all despite his concerns over just barely having enough energy to complete the respective legs of his trip.

Taken at face value, Tesla's data seems compelling to say the least. With that said, we're no more in a position to attest to the veracity of the logged data than we are the claims of Mr. Broder. At the very least it will be fascinating to see what the NYT does to respond, if anything at all, to this rather serious, high-profile assault on its credibility.

For its part, Tesla is taking Elon's article as the final word on the matter. A company spokesperson released this statement, just this morning: "Please note, no one from Tesla - including Elon - will be providing additional comment on this topic moving forward as we feel the blog speaks for itself. At this time, this post is the company's final statement on the issue." We've collected all of Tesla's charts and graphs from Broder's trip in our attached gallery, so you can have a closer look for yourselves, too.

Tesla takes New York Times to task for damning Model S review originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 Feb 2013 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 tesla model selon muskjohn brodermodel snew york timesteslaThu, 14 Feb 2013 09:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20461908/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/14/tesla-takes-new-york-times-to-task-for-damning-model-s-re/20461908/article-detail.xml 20461908 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/tesla-model-s-supercharger_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/tesla-model-s-supercharger.jpg <![CDATA[Hagerty predicts this year's future classics]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/31/hagerty-predicts-this-years-future-classics/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/31/hagerty-predicts-this-years-future-classics/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/31/hagerty-predicts-this-years-future-classics/#commentsFiled under:



Hagerty Insurance, which specializes in covering cars already deemed classics, is out with its annual Hot List predicting this year's ten cars that will be future collectibles. Even though it stays under $100,000, it spans almost $74,000 in MSRPs starting with the $23,700 Ford Focus ST on the affordable end and peaking with the $97,395 SRT Viper.

Other notables include the Chevrolet Corvette Convertible 427, what with 2013 being both the 60th anniversary of the brand and the last year of the C6, the 505-horsepower 427 special edition being a send-off to the sports car that always does well in the last model year of a particular generation. The Tesla Model S collects yet another award for delivering a welcome and overdue shock to the electric-car game and is the only sedan to make the list, and the Subaru BRZ also adds to its trophy chest, the lightweight coupe doing so much with so little that it might be worth a packet after Father Time has waved his staff a few times.

You can check out the rest of Hagerty's picks in the press release below.

Continue reading Hagerty predicts this year's future classics

Hagerty predicts this year's future classics originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 31 Jan 2013 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AudiBRZCamarocamaro ZL1Caymancayman SChevroletclassicscollectiblesCorvettecorvette 427Focus STFordGTihagertyhagerty hot listhagerty insuranceJohn Cooper Works GPMiniModel SPorscheRS5SRTSubaruTeslaViperVolkswagenThu, 31 Jan 2013 17:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20444538/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/31/hagerty-predicts-this-years-future-classics/20444538/article-detail.xml 20444538 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/hagertyhotlist_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/hagertyhotlist.jpg <![CDATA[Tesla Model S sets quarter-mile record for quickest production EV [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/28/tesla-model-s-sets-quarter-mile-record-for-quickest-production-e/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/28/tesla-model-s-sets-quarter-mile-record-for-quickest-production-e/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/28/tesla-model-s-sets-quarter-mile-record-for-quickest-production-e/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Tesla Model S

It looks as if the Tesla Model S has a new feather to stick in its cap. DragTimes.com took the five-door down to Palm Beach International Raceway for a few sprints down the quarter mile, and the EV managed to run a best time of 12.371 seconds at 110.84 miles per hour with a 0-60 time of 3.9 seconds. Those numbers were good enough for the Model S to take the crown as the world's quickest production EV according to the National Electric Drag Racing Association. NEDRA was on hand for the organization's Winter EV Nationals, and verified the new world record.

Near as we can tell, the previous record stood at 12.582 at 104.58 mph. That feat was accomplished with a Tesla Roadster owned by Zachary Vex and driven by Stella Kostolna at the Speedworld Dragstrip in Arizona. You can watch the Model S dust a Dodge Viper SRT10 in the video below. Who says you can't have any fun without internal combustion?

Continue reading Tesla Model S sets quarter-mile record for quickest production EV [w/video]

Tesla Model S sets quarter-mile record for quickest production EV [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Jan 2013 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>drag racemodel smodel s drag racequarter milerecordteslatesla model sworld recordMon, 28 Jan 2013 16:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20440673/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/28/tesla-model-s-sets-quarter-mile-record-for-quickest-production-e/20440673/article-detail.xml 20440673 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/tesla-model-s-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/tesla-model-s-628.jpg <![CDATA[Tesla Model S finally has its date with a dyno]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/17/tesla-model-s-finally-has-its-date-with-a-dyno/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/17/tesla-model-s-finally-has-its-date-with-a-dyno/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/17/tesla-model-s-finally-has-its-date-with-a-dyno/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Tesla Model S on dyno

The performance abilities - and even the burnout potential - of the Tesla Model S has already been well documented, but, surprisingly, we haven't yet seen the all-electric luxury hatchback strapped to a dyno. Fortunately, the crew over at Dragtimes has posted a video that finally gave us some real-world numbers for the family- and environmentally friendly Tesla.

As the article points out, the results might be off a little (on the low side) due to the run not starting from a dead stop, but the numbers are impressive nonetheless. Immediately upon throttle application, the dyno records almost 300 horsepower at zero miles per hour, and power peaks at 368 hp at around 55 mph (we imagine the "386HP" quoted on the video title is a typo) before trailing off to around 220 hp closer to the car's limited 130-mph top speed. This compares quite favorably to the power numbers provided by Tesla putting max output at 416 hp; the dyno provided no torque figures for the car. Dragtimes also believes this number bodes well for the car on the track, too, quoting a quarter-mile time of 12.2 seconds at 112 mph.

The video of the quiet, zero-emission dyno session is posted below, so check it out.

Continue reading Tesla Model S finally has its date with a dyno

Tesla Model S finally has its date with a dyno originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 17 Jan 2013 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 tesla model sdynodyno videoelectric carevmodel steslavideoThu, 17 Jan 2013 14:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20430684/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/17/tesla-model-s-finally-has-its-date-with-a-dyno/20430684/article-detail.xml 20430684 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/tesla-model-s-dyno_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/tesla-model-s-dyno.jpg <![CDATA[Watch <i>Wired</i> go hands-on with Tesla Model S 4.0]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/17/watch-wired-go-hands-on-with-tesla-model-s-4-0/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/17/watch-wired-go-hands-on-with-tesla-model-s-4-0/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/17/watch-wired-go-hands-on-with-tesla-model-s-4-0/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Tesla Model S

Our friends at Wired recently got their hands on the latest software release for the Tesla Model S. The 4.0 release adds a few interesting bits of functionality to the EV, including voice control for the navigation and telephone systems as well as Slacker Radio. Tesla employed Google voice-recognition software for the Model S, and Wired says the system is "far easier and more intuitive than most." High praise.

The update also adds another level of customization to the EV's steering wheel controls. The right knob now offers finer audio volume control while the left knob can be configured to handle everything from temperature setting to fan speed or even the opening and closing of the sunroof.

Wired also reports the 17-inch touch screen on the Model S now seems more responsive and that the update includes new graphical displays for the vehicle's range. Other nice tricks include revised throttle response and an adjustment to the vehicle's door handles - now owners need only approach their Model S for the door handles to pop out from their hiding places. You can check out the video below for a closer look.

Continue reading Watch Wired go hands-on with Tesla Model S 4.0

Watch Wired go hands-on with Tesla Model S 4.0 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Dec 2012 08:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>model smodel s 4.0software updateteslatesla model stesla model s software updatevideowiredMon, 17 Dec 2012 08:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20404363/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/17/watch-wired-go-hands-on-with-tesla-model-s-4-0/20404363/article-detail.xml 20404363 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/model-s-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/model-s-628.jpg <![CDATA[Tesla Model S is emissions-free burnout machine after pulling fuses]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/13/tesla-model-s-is-emissions-free-burnout-machine-after-pulling-fu/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/13/tesla-model-s-is-emissions-free-burnout-machine-after-pulling-fu/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/13/tesla-model-s-is-emissions-free-burnout-machine-after-pulling-fu/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Road & Track Tesla Model S Burnout

Add one more feather to the proverbial cap of the Tesla Model S. Road & Track West Coast Editor Jason Cammisa figured out how to make the electric luxury sedan extra frisky and then set about nuking the rear tires with electric-motor torque.

"Holy hell there's a lot of torque here," Cammisa wrote in his notes after pulling a fuse that took the ABS, stability control and traction control offline. That fuse also took out the speedometer and air suspension - no big deal - but power steering and brake assist went out, too, making hooning a parking-lot-only affair.

The best part is that they shot a video to accompany the hijinks, so you can see for yourself how the Model S does. If you want to try it for yourself, just be careful.

"There's no rev-limiter to contend with," notes Cammisa, and that means "you'll be spinning tire up to the car's 132-mph top speed." That makes the Model S capable of blowing tires very effectively. The upside to disabling the assistance systems is that the raw dynamics of the car show through, and Cammisa reports that the underlying car is very good, indeed. You've waited long enough, scroll down for the video.

Continue reading Tesla Model S is emissions-free burnout machine after pulling fuses

Tesla Model S is emissions-free burnout machine after pulling fuses originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Dec 2012 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burnout videomodel smodel s burnoutteslatesla burnouttesla model stesla model s burnoutvideoThu, 13 Dec 2012 17:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20402205/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/13/tesla-model-s-is-emissions-free-burnout-machine-after-pulling-fu/20402205/article-detail.xml 20402205 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/rt-tesla-model-s-burnout_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/rt-tesla-model-s-burnout.jpg <![CDATA[Musk reports positive cash flow for Tesla last week]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/05/musk-reports-positive-cash-flow-for-tesla-last-week/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/05/musk-reports-positive-cash-flow-for-tesla-last-week/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/05/musk-reports-positive-cash-flow-for-tesla-last-week/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Tesla Model S

According to Bloomberg, Tesla actually earned money last week. CEO Elon Musk sent out a message on Twitter saying his company was "narrowly cash positive." That's big news for a company that hasn't turned a quarterly profit as of yet. Tesla is currently in the middle of stepping up production for its Model S sedan, and has announced the vehicle's MSRP will jump by $2,500, presumably to help fund that expansion.

So far, Tesla says it has built will build around 20,000 Model S units at its California production facility next year, though analysts say the ability to repeatedly generate a positive cash flow would go a long way toward the company's evolution into a "sustainable operating entry." So far, the Model S has garnered substantive praise, earning the Motor Trend Car of the Year Award among others. Tesla shares are up 19 percent this year over the same time period in 2011.

Musk reports positive cash flow for Tesla last week originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Dec 2012 15:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 tesla model selon muskmodel steslatesla cash positivetesla earningsWed, 05 Dec 2012 15:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20394750/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/05/musk-reports-positive-cash-flow-for-tesla-last-week/20394750/article-detail.xml 20394750 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/tesla-model-s-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/tesla-model-s-628.jpg <![CDATA[Tesla Model S will get price increase]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/21/tesla-model-s-will-get-price-increase/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/21/tesla-model-s-will-get-price-increase/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/21/tesla-model-s-will-get-price-increase/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



Tesla has confirmed the Model S will soon see a price increase. The company has yet to release details on how much more the critically acclaimed electric vehicle will cost moving forward, but has released a few details about how the shift will affect buyers with existing reservations. Tesla says the increase will not apply to anyone who has a reservation so long as they configure and finalize their order "within a fair and predefined timeframe." Likewise, those buyers who deferred their reservations will be able to keep the original pricing by finalizing their order within the same timeframe.

Tesla says the price shift will also include changes to the Model S option package structure, and that some features currently considered standard equipment will become added cost options in the future. As with the overall price increase, these changes will not impact those with current orders, reservations or deferred reservations. Expect to hear more about the price increase as information becomes available, and in the meantime you can read the brief press release below for more information.

Continue reading Tesla Model S will get price increase

Tesla Model S will get price increase originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 21 Nov 2012 14:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>model smodel s price increaseteslatesla model s price increaseWed, 21 Nov 2012 14:14:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20385853/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/21/tesla-model-s-will-get-price-increase/20385853/article-detail.xml 20385853 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/09-2012-tesla-model-s-fd-1347336765-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/09-2012-tesla-model-s-fd-1347336765-opt.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Popular Science</i> magazine's Best Of What's New 2012 all ate up with cars]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/20/popular-science-magazines-best-of-whats-new-2012-all-at/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/20/popular-science-magazines-best-of-whats-new-2012-all-at/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/20/popular-science-magazines-best-of-whats-new-2012-all-at/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , ,



Popular Science has named the winners in its Best of What's New awards, the victors coming in the categories of aerospace, automotive, engineering, entertainment, gadgets, green, hardware, health, home, recreation, security and software. The automotive category did not go wanting for lauded advancements:
  • Tesla Model S: the Grand Award winner for being "the standard by which all future electric vehicles will be measured."
  • BMW 328i: it's 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gets called out for being more powerful and frugal than the six-cylinder it replaces.
  • Ferrari F12 Berlinetta: towering power, towering top speed, 30 percent more fuel efficient than the 599 Fiorano it replaces.
  • Toyota RAV4 EV: the all-electric SUV accelerates better than many conventional SUVs, goes 100 mph and actually beats EPA mileage estimates.
  • Porsche Cayenne Diesel: 406 pound-feet of torque, 33 highway mpg, up to 800 miles from a single tank and Cayenne style, give 'em a trophy.
  • 2013 Ford Fusion: its three flavors - standard, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid - "are the most efficient models in their classes," that latter one expected to outdo the Chevrolet Volt's EPA mileage rating.
  • The DeltaWing: gets kudos for being "the most efficient racecar in history."
  • Mercedes-Benz Magic Vision Control: a holistic solution to keeping your windshield clean and clear year-round.
  • General Motors' MyLink: takes the in-car computer out of the car, puts it in the driver's smartphone.
  • Infiniti Back-Up Collision Intervention: rear-mounted radar and sonar keep track of what's behind you and brake automatically if an obstacle is detected so you don't hit things when you back that Infiniti up.
The automotive category tied with categories like aerospace and health for the number of awards. Congratulations to all the winners, head on over to PopSci for the full details on each of them.

Popular Science magazine's Best Of What's New 2012 all ate up with cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Nov 2012 17:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>328iBack-up Collision Preventionbmwcayenne dieseldeltawingfordfusiongminfinitimagic vision controlmercedes-benzmodel smylinknissan deltawingporscherav4 evteslatoyotaTue, 20 Nov 2012 17:44:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20381608/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/20/popular-science-magazines-best-of-whats-new-2012-all-at/20381608/article-detail.xml 20381608 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/psawards_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/psawards.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Consumer Reports</i> weighs in with its first Tesla Model S review]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/14/consumer-reports-weighs-in-with-its-first-tesla-model-s-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/14/consumer-reports-weighs-in-with-its-first-tesla-model-s-r/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/14/consumer-reports-weighs-in-with-its-first-tesla-model-s-r/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Everyone has been chiming in with their thoughts on the Tesla Model S lately, and with the car taking home awards like the prestigious Motor Trend Car of the Year, this probably won't change anytime soon. Not wanting to be left in the dark, Consumer Reports has managed to get its hands on a Model S to give its own impressions of the luxurious electric hatchback.

Like many other outlets (including our own first drive), CR praised the Model S for its styling (which it compares to an Audi A7) and performance (which it says "can put serious hurt on a Corvette"). With limited time with the car, the video doesn't touch on the specific range the institute attained, but it appears most of the car's time was spent on the track anyway.

On the flip side of things, CR dinged the Model S for its retractable door handles which the reviewer refers to as "fussy," and as much as CR has blasted Ford and its MyFord Touch for being distracting and largely button-less in the past, we were surprised at how much it seemed to adore the lack of buttons on Model S. They even glossed over the fact that drivers can surf the Web on the 17-inch touch screen while driving.

Scroll down to watch the first drive video and then head over to Consumer Reports for the write-up.

Continue reading Consumer Reports weighs in with its first Tesla Model S review

Consumer Reports weighs in with its first Tesla Model S review originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Nov 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 tesla model sconsumer reportsmodel steslavideoWed, 14 Nov 2012 15:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20379054/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/14/consumer-reports-weighs-in-with-its-first-tesla-model-s-r/20379054/article-detail.xml 20379054 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/consumer-reports-tesla-model-s_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/consumer-reports-tesla-model-s.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #308]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/13/autoblog-podcast-308/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/13/autoblog-podcast-308/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/13/autoblog-podcast-308/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Motor Trend Car of the Year, 2013 Honda Civic, 2014 Ford Mustang, Global Ford Ranger wins award

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Episode #308 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Jeff Ross talk about the Tesla Model S being named Motor Trend Car of the Year, the 2013 Honda Civic and the new hybrid systems and Micro Commuter concept also coming out of Honda, the 2014 Ford Mustang and the departure of the Boss 302, and the global Ford Ranger winning an International Truck award. For those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. Keep reading for our Q&A module for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #308:



Topics:

In the Autoblog Garage:
2013 Volvo S80 T6 AWD Inscription
2013 BMW 640i Gran Coupe
2013 Infiniti FX37

Hosts: Dan Roth, Zach Bowman, Jeff Ross
Runtime: 01:17:54

Get the podcast
[UStream] Listen live on Mondays at 10PM Eastern at UStream
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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #308

Autoblog Podcast #308 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Nov 2012 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 bmw 6 series gran coupe2013 honda civic2013 infiniti fx2013 volvo s802014 ford mustang6 series gran coupeautoblog podcastautoblog podcast 308bmwcar of the yearcivicfeaturedfordford rangerfxhondahonda civichonda micro commuterinfinitimicro commutermodel smotor trend car of the yearmustangpodcastpodcast 308s80teslatesla model stesla motorsvolvoTue, 13 Nov 2012 17:29:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #308Autoblog01:17:54 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20378598/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/13/autoblog-podcast-308/20378598/article-detail.xml 20378598 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[2013 <i>Motor Trend</i> Car of the Year: Tesla Model S [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/12/2013-motor-trend-car-of-the-year-tesla-model-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/12/2013-motor-trend-car-of-the-year-tesla-model-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/12/2013-motor-trend-car-of-the-year-tesla-model-s/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2012 Tesla Model S

Eleven cars enter, one car leaves. Silently and with zero emissions.

Tesla has earned one of the most coveted prizes in the automotive world, as its Model S has taken home the Golden Calipers as the 2013 Motor Trend Car of the Year. In the process, the Model S beat out a field that included 10 other contenders.

In case you were wondering, this is the first time an electric car has earned this accolade. No internal combustion here, folks. In an impressive run the Model S was also named Automobile Car of the Year and one of the 25 Best Inventions of the year by Time Magazine.

Motor Trend's very own Angus MacKenzie calls the Model S "perhaps the most accomplished all-new luxury car since the original Lexus LS 400." High praise indeed, considering how Toyota's luxury division ruffled feathers in challenging Germany Inc. way back in 1989. MacKenzie goes on: "At its core, the Tesla Model S is simply a damned good car you happen to plug in to refuel."

Two aspects of the Tesla Model S that weighed heavily on Motor Trend staffers were performance and efficiency. With maximum horsepower sitting at 416 and torque an astounding 443 pound-feet - resulting in a dash to 60 in just 4.0 seconds and an average of 75.5 miles per gallon equivalent during MT's testing - this all-American electric sedan is worthy of accolades.

Somewhat shockingly, every single judge for Motor Trend picked the Tesla Model S as their winner, causing MacKenzie to sum up the pick this way: "America can still make things. Great things." Indeed. Read the official details from Motor Trend here, and scroll down below for a video.

Continue reading 2013 Motor Trend Car of the Year: Tesla Model S [w/video]

2013 Motor Trend Car of the Year: Tesla Model S [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Nov 2012 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 tesla model s2013 car of the year2013 motor trend car of the yearmodel smotor trendMotor Trend Car of the YearteslaMon, 12 Nov 2012 18:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20377892/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/12/2013-motor-trend-car-of-the-year-tesla-model-s/20377892/article-detail.xml 20377892 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2012-tesla-model-s-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/2012-tesla-model-s-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #307]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/06/autoblog-podcast-307/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/06/autoblog-podcast-307/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/06/autoblog-podcast-307/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Suzuki bankruptcy, Hyundai/Kia mileage, Scion FR-S supercharger, Tesla Model S awards, Consumer Reports top 10 most reliable American cars

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Episode #307 of the Autoblog Podcast is here, and this week, Dan Roth, Zach Bowman and Jeff Ross talk about Suzuki departing the US market, the debacle surrounding Hyundai and Kia fuel economy numbers, rumors of a Scion FR-S supercharger kit, the Tesla Model S being named one of the best inventions of 2012 by Time magazine and Consumer Reports ranking its top 10 most reliable American cars. For those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. Keep reading for our Q&A module for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #307:



Topics:

In the Autoblog Garage:
2012 Scion iQ
2012 Nissan Frontier
2013 Mazda MX-5 Miata

Hosts: Dan Roth, Zach Bowman, Jeff Ross
Runtime: 01:17:49

Get the podcast
[UStream] Listen live on Mondays at 10PM Eastern at UStream
[iTunes] Subscribe to the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes
[RSS] Add the Autoblog Podcast feed to your RSS aggregator
[MP3] Download the MP3 directly

Feedback
Email: Podcast at Autoblog dot com

Review the show in iTunes

Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #307

Autoblog Podcast #307 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Nov 2012 16:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoblog podcastconsumer reportsfeaturedfr-sfrontierhyundaihyundai fuel economyiqkiakia fuel economymiatamodel smx-5 miatateslaTue, 06 Nov 2012 16:45:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #307Autoblog01:17:49 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20372396/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/06/autoblog-podcast-307/20372396/article-detail.xml 20372396 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Tesla: Earnings still down, but rate of Model S production way up]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/06/tesla-earnings-still-down-but-rate-of-model-s-production-way-u/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/06/tesla-earnings-still-down-but-rate-of-model-s-production-way-u/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/06/tesla-earnings-still-down-but-rate-of-model-s-production-way-u/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Tesla Model S - black - rear three-quarter view at sunset

According to its Third Quarter 2012 Shareholder Letter, Tesla "is now at over 200 cars per week or 10,000 cars per year, which is at the critical threshold needed for Tesla to generate positive operating cash flow."

That's an important milestone to be sure, but the news is actually even better; Tesla expects to ramp Model S production up to 400 cars per week (20,000 units/year) by December of 2012, and says it will deliver 2,500 to 3,000 units in the fourth quarter of 2012. That's lower than the previous target of 5,000 in 2012, but it's more an issue of delayed achievement rather than missing the mark altogether.

All of that production bodes well for the future, but as of today, the automaker has yet to earn real money. Revenue for the third quarter of 2012 was $50 million, equating to a net loss of about $110 million after expenses were tallied. The stock market likes the numbers, with TSLA shares rising 8.9 percent on Monday after the report was released.

With production up to 400 cars per week, we're pretty sure company CEO Elon Musk isn't able to personally inspect each Model S as he was when Tesla was producing fewer than 80 cars per week. In any case, accolades have been rolling in for the Model S, with two recent scores including being named Automobile Car of the Year and one of the 25 Best Inventions of the year by Time Magazine.

Check out Tesla's complete Q3 earnings report here.

Tesla: Earnings still down, but rate of Model S production way up originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 06 Nov 2012 11:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 tesla model selon muskmodel steslatesla earningstesla financialstesla profitTue, 06 Nov 2012 11:33:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20370918/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/06/tesla-earnings-still-down-but-rate-of-model-s-production-way-u/20370918/article-detail.xml 20370918 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/tesla-model-s-rear_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/tesla-model-s-rear.jpg <![CDATA[<i>Time</i> slots Tesla Model S among best inventions of 2012]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/04/time-slots-tesla-model-s-among-best-inventions-of-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/04/time-slots-tesla-model-s-among-best-inventions-of-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/04/time-slots-tesla-model-s-among-best-inventions-of-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Tesla Model S

Time Magazine has released its list of the best inventions of 2012, and while a few automotive products made the cut, the Tesla Model S was the only vehicle to nab the honor this year. The magazine cites the electric sedan's sexy aesthetics, lofty 265-mile range and touch-screen cabin controls as reasons for the laurel, though Tesla's network of supercharger stations certainly factored in as well. This is just the latest in long list of accolades for the Model S. As you may recall, Motor Trend recently called the EV the most important car since the Ford Model T, and Automobile Magazine named the five-door its Automobile of the Year.

A total of 25 inventions made the Time list in all, including the self-inflating tires we saw from Goodyear earlier this year. From whimsical indoor clouds crafted by Dutch artist Berndnaut Smilde to a potentially life-saving in-home HIV test, the selections showcase the diversity of human innovation. Check out the complete list here.

Time slots Tesla Model S among best inventions of 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 04 Nov 2012 16:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>best inventions of 2012inventionsmodel steslatesla model stimetime magazineSun, 04 Nov 2012 16:04:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20370016/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/04/time-slots-tesla-model-s-among-best-inventions-of-2012/20370016/article-detail.xml 20370016 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/tesla-model-s-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/tesla-model-s-628.jpg -1 2