Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.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/<![CDATA[SEMA 2009: Booth Professionals are anything but stock]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-booth-professionals-are-anything-but-stock/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-booth-professionals-are-anything-but-stock/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/06/sema-2009-booth-professionals-are-anything-but-stock/#commentsFiled under: ,


Lisa Angeline, aka Catwoman - Click above for high-res image gallery

This year's SEMA show in Las Vegas didn't have quite the gravitas of years past, as the state of the economy and the automotive industry in particular seemed to be a wet blanket over the whole proceedings. Thank goodness there were plenty of friendly faces throughout the halls to keep our spirits up.

One smiling face especially caught our eye, although we weren't sure why. The eyes and smile were familiar but we couldn't quite put our finger on where we had seen them before. And then it hit us, it was our beloved Catwoman (a.k.a. Lisa Angeline) from last year's BatSmart gallery! We hardly recognized her stripped of her catsuit. We saw her in the Vertical Doors booth. We know this with great certainty because the name of the company was written in very strategic locations - like on the banner above her head and (*ahem*) elsewhere. Smart folks behind that BatSmart. But to be honest, we weren't really paying too much attention to the cars there, so perhaps this strategy is flawed.

This happened quite a bit during the week. We'd go down to shoot a certain car, and an hour later, we'd be scratching our heads wondering what we had come down for in the first place. Take a look at the gallery and you'll probably agree - down year or no, the distractions were quite spectacular.


Gallery: SEMA 2009: Booth Professionals


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio/Weblogs, Inc.

SEMA 2009: Booth Professionals are anything but stock originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 06 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>babebabe galleryBabeGallerybabesbooth babebooth babesbooth professionalsBoothBabeBoothBabesBoothProfessionalscatwomanfemale modelsFemaleModelslas vegasLasVegasLisa AngelineLisaAngelinemodelsSEMAsema 2009Sema showsema show 2009Sema2009SemaShowSemaShow2009show girlsShowGirlswomen of semaWomenOfSemaFri, 06 Nov 2009 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tokyo 2009: Makuhari Messe no Jyosei ha Bijin desu*]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/tokyo-2009-makuhari-messe-no-jyosei-ha-bijin-desu/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/tokyo-2009-makuhari-messe-no-jyosei-ha-bijin-desu/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/tokyo-2009-makuhari-messe-no-jyosei-ha-bijin-desu/#commentsFiled under:

The beautiful women of Tokyo 2009 - Click above for a high-res image gallery

As far as cars went, the Frankfurt Motor Show was the proverbial glut of riches, and the Tokyo Motor Show proved that you can't live life at the top all the time. Tokyo did, however, still provide plenty of aesthetic beauty, much of which had nothing to do with the automobiles. We won't call it a consolation prize, but it's certainly not something we're upset about.

Have a look at what arguably might have been the finest aspects of the Tokyo Motor Show in the gallery below - and the woman with the stuffed car on her head (it is still Tokyo, after all...). (*Translation: "The beautiful women of Makuhari Messe").


Gallery: The beautiful women of Tokyo 2009


Photos copyright (C)2009 Jonathon Ramsey / Weblogs, Inc.

Tokyo 2009: Makuhari Messe no Jyosei ha Bijin desu* originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>auto showauto show girlsauto show modelsAutoShowAutoShowGirlsAutoShowModelsmodelstokyotokyo 2009tokyo girlstokyo modelsTokyo Motor Showtokyo womenTokyo2009TokyoGirlsTokyoModelsTokyoMotorShowTokyoWomenwomenThu, 22 Oct 2009 19:59:00 EST<![CDATA[The Lexus LFA may cost $375k, but the paper one is free]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/lexus-lfa-paper-model/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/lexus-lfa-paper-model/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/22/lexus-lfa-paper-model/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Many people are into model cars. And... origami. Tangrams, too - which are sort of a two-dimensional, reusable form of origami. What are we on about here, why are we discussing folding paper and models? Funny you should ask. See, the all new Lexus LFA went ahead and got revealed the other day and initial reaction (at least around the Autoblog virtual office) has been pretty negative - negative towards a certain dude name Damon Lavrinc who gets to jet off to Miami and drive the latest Japanese ubercar and it's 560-hp, 4.8-liter V10 that has to propel just 3,263 pounds. Jerk.

But fear not, because even if we don't get to drive the mightiest ever Lexus (and Lord knows at $375,000 we'll never be able to afford one), we can still have one, in a sense. As it turns out, an incredibly loose sense. But yes, if you click this here link, you will find a website that lets you print out a LFA pattern, and with a coupe quick folds you too can have your very own (paper) Lexus LFA. The question then becomes, how good is your printer? OK, we've got to go now, our planet needs us. Thanks to Will for the tip!


Gallery: Tokyo 2009: 2011 Lexus LFA


[Source: Lexus LFA Wiki]

The Lexus LFA may cost $375k, but the paper one is free originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Oct 2009 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Lexus2011 Lexus LFA2011 LFA2011Lexus2011LexusLfa2011LfaLexusLexus LF-ALexus LFALexusLf-aLexusLfaLFAModelsThu, 22 Oct 2009 13:29:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Daimler sells 4% of Tesla to Middle East investment fund just two months after acquiring it ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/13/report-daimler-sells-4-of-tesla-to-middle-east-investment-fund/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/13/report-daimler-sells-4-of-tesla-to-middle-east-investment-fund/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/13/report-daimler-sells-4-of-tesla-to-middle-east-investment-fund/#commentsFiled under:


Tesla Roadster - Click above image for high-res gallery

Just two months after buying 9% of Tesla Motors, Daimler has reportedly sold nearly half of that stake. According to Reuters, 4% percent of the electric car startup is now owned by Aabar Investments, an Abu Dhabi-based investment fund. In a way, the stake is still in the family, since Aabar already bought 9.1 percent of Daimler's stock earlier this year. At the time of its original investment, Daimler and the fund indicated an intention to pursue joint projects in low emissions transportation.

Aabar has indicated it would be interested in pursuing some kind of joint venture with Tesla. The fund is controlled by the Abu Dhabi government and managed by the International Petroleum Investment Company with the intent of diversifying beyond oil.

Gallery: Jason Calacanis' Tesla Roadster


Photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Reuters]

REPORT: Daimler sells 4% of Tesla to Middle East investment fund just two months after acquiring it originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Jul 2009 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aabar investements pjscAabarInvestementsPjscdaimlermodel sModelSteslatesla investmenttesla model stesla motorstesla roadsterTeslaInvestmentTeslaModelSteslamotorsTeslaRoadsterMon, 13 Jul 2009 18:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Elon Musk: "Golden handcuffs" require I stay through Model S launch]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/02/elon-musk-golden-handcuffs-require-i-stay-through-model-s-lau/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/02/elon-musk-golden-handcuffs-require-i-stay-through-model-s-lau/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/02/elon-musk-golden-handcuffs-require-i-stay-through-model-s-lau/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



For a guy who allegedly wants a lot of the credit for creating Tesla Motors, Elon Musk certainly doesn't seem to like the job of being its CEO. As part of Daimler's investment deal with Tesla, Musk needed to commit to staying on as Tesla's CEO at least until the Model S launches in 2011. Musk told Reuters:
I didn't really have a choice. This was a requirement of Daimler that I remain CEO of Tesla through the Model S launch and then continue to be part of Tesla in a chairman role beyond that. It's flattering, but at the same time it's golden handcuffs.
Well, that sure makes it sound like fun, doesn't it? It's clear that Musk has always been interested in projects other than Tesla (e.g.: electric planes and SpaceX), but does he have to make running one of the hippest electric car companies around sound like a drag?

Another nugget from the article: One of the reasons the price on the Roadster was raised was to help qualify Tesla Motors for the DOE loan it later received. Musk said, "We did the minimum we needed to do to make the business work."


Gallery: Tesla Model S


[Source: Reuters]

Elon Musk: "Golden handcuffs" require I stay through Model S launch originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Jul 2009 09:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AutoblogGreenelon muskelon musk ceoElonMuskElonMuskCeomodel sModelSmusk ceomusk model sMuskCeoMuskModelSteslatesla daimlertesla model stesla motorstesla motors ceoTeslaDaimlerTeslaModelSTeslaMotorsTeslaMotorsCeoThu, 02 Jul 2009 09:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Ford, Nissan, Tesla all big winners in DoE advanced technology loans]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/23/ford-nissan-tesla-all-big-winners-in-doe-advanced-technology-l/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/23/ford-nissan-tesla-all-big-winners-in-doe-advanced-technology-l/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/23/ford-nissan-tesla-all-big-winners-in-doe-advanced-technology-l/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


Ford Focus EV Mule - Click above for high-res gallery

The U.S. Department of Energy has finally announced the first recipient of low interest loans under its Advanced Technology Vehicle Manufacturing Incentive Program. The first recipient is Ford, and analysts believe the DoE will award sums to Nissan and Tesla Motors, as well. Ford applied for up to $11 billion in loans, but instead it was awarded $5.9 billion in financing. The Dearborn-based automaker will use the money to fund its electric vehicle program that will launch a battery-powered version of the Transit Connect in 2010, and it will also likely use the capital to help pay for the $550 million renovation of its Wayne, MI sport-utility plant to build the next-generation Focus in both internal combustion and electric flavors.

For its part, Nissan wants to add production of its upcoming electric car and lithium ion batteries at its assembly complex in Smyrna, Tennessee, and it will receive $1.6 billion.

Despite receiving the smallest sum of the three automakers, Tesla is arguably the biggest winner this round, as the $465 million it may receive will allow the fledgeling EV maker to proceed with completing development and production of its Model S sedan. Recent investment in the company by Daimler was probably a big help in getting the loan approved, as companies had to demonstrate viability. And since the ATVM program favors re-tooling of older existing plants, Tesla will probably look at acquiring a closed factory from another company. Recent rumors had the company possibly getting a former McDonnell-Douglas factory in Long Beach, although there are plenty of other properties available.

The current Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings at General Motors and Chrysler made those companies ineligible in the current round. It's not known if any announcements will be made about loans for battery makers like A123 or EnerDel.


Gallery: ABG Quick Drive: Ford Focus EV mule


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: Automotive News, sub. req'd]

Ford, Nissan, Tesla all big winners in DoE advanced technology loans originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Jun 2009 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atvmatvmlpAutoblogGreenbreakingbreaking newsbreakingnewsdoe loandoe loansDoeLoanDoeLoansfordModel SModelSnissanteslatesla model stesla motorsTeslaModelSteslamotorsTue, 23 Jun 2009 13:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Spec out your own Maserati - in 1/43 scale]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/19/spec-out-your-own-maserati-in-1-43-scale/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/19/spec-out-your-own-maserati-in-1-43-scale/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/19/spec-out-your-own-maserati-in-1-43-scale/#commentsFiled under: , ,



If you're looking for a Maserati that's easier on your wallet, or a treat for a Maserati lover, then you should check out the Maserati model configurator. Three base models in 1/43 scale are available: Quattroporte, Quattroporte S, and Granturismo S. From there you can choose from among seven exterior and two interior colors, four or five different brake caliper colors, two or three different kinds of rims, and select a sunroof which is made of glass. No, it doesn't open.

You can even select a personalized license plate written in one of four fonts. Naturally, once you're finished, you can buy it. The models are €230 ($320 US), which includes shipping, and are sent within 30 days. If your Maserati doesn't match your expectations, you can return it (good luck doing that with a real car). If you don't want to go all the way then you can just display your modeling prowess in the virtual showroom. Everybody wins.

[Source: Maserati]

Spec out your own Maserati - in 1/43 scale originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Jun 2009 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>etcgiftgiftslifestylemaseratimodelmodelstoysFri, 19 Jun 2009 18:32:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Franz von Holzhausen talks about the 2011 Tesla Model S]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/09/video-franz-von-holzhausen-talks-about-the-2011-tesla-model-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/09/video-franz-von-holzhausen-talks-about-the-2011-tesla-model-s/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/09/video-franz-von-holzhausen-talks-about-the-2011-tesla-model-s/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2011 Tesla Model S - Click above for a high-res image gallery

The crew from On Cars had a chance to spend some quality time with the Tesla Model S and some of the key people bringing this sweet sedan to fruition. In the first of three videos (the other two haven't been released yet), not only are we treated to some gorgeous shots of the Model S, inside and out, but also have the chance to listen to designer Franz von Holzhausen talk at length about the object of our fastback desire. If you've been paying attention to every detail released about the all-electric so far, there might not be a lot of new material for you here, though interestingly, the Model S does get the year 2011 attached to it. That seems a little soon seeing as a factory hasn't been built or acquired yet, but we digress.

Even if you do happen to know every bit of Model S minutiae, it is nice to hear the passion and excitement Franz has for the project as he talks with ardor about proportion and aerodynamics. You can see why Tesla chief, Elon Musk hired him on in the first place. But enough jabbering, hit the jump and check it out for yourself.


Gallery: Tesla Model S


Gallery: Tesla Model S: LIVE REVEAL


[Source: On Cars]

Continue reading VIDEO: Franz von Holzhausen talks about the 2011 Tesla Model S

VIDEO: Franz von Holzhausen talks about the 2011 Tesla Model S originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Jun 2009 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>automotive designAutomotiveDesignFranz von HolzhausenFranzVonHolzhausenModel SModelSTesla Model STeslaModelSTue, 09 Jun 2009 20:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Childhood Redeemed: Lego artist creates jaw-dropping four-wheeled creations]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/25/childhood-redeemed-lego-artist-creates-jaw-dropping-four-wheele/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/25/childhood-redeemed-lego-artist-creates-jaw-dropping-four-wheele/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/25/childhood-redeemed-lego-artist-creates-jaw-dropping-four-wheele/#commentsFiled under: ,


Firas Abu-Jaber's Lego cars - click above for a high-res gallery

This is how you tell the master from the journeyman: Give them a common task, place the same tools in each of their hands, and while journeyman's results will be acceptable, the master's results will be amazing. Firas Abu-Jaber has a way with Legos that certainly qualifies him as a master in the medium when it comes to building cars.

By his own admission, having played with Legos since he started eating cereal, he is now proficient enough with the regular blocks - not the specialized sets - to create all manner of realistic vehicles and interiors. His work speaks for itself, so have a look at the gallery below to see what passion can do with a set of Legos.


Gallery: Abu-Jaber Lego Cars


[Source: MOC Pages (via Jalopnik)]

Childhood Redeemed: Lego artist creates jaw-dropping four-wheeled creations originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 May 2009 17:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abu-jabaretclegolegosmodelmodel carsModelCarsmodelstoysMon, 25 May 2009 17:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Can the Tesla Model S be profitable at $57,400? Not according to these calculations...]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/29/can-the-tesla-model-s-be-profitable-at-57-400-not-according-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/29/can-the-tesla-model-s-be-profitable-at-57-400-not-according-to/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/29/can-the-tesla-model-s-be-profitable-at-57-400-not-according-to/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


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

Tesla Motors' charismatic frontman, Elon Musk, will be showing up on the Late Show with David Letterman tonight to dazzle America's TV audience with his gorgeous all-electric sedan. Tesla says that when the Model S goes on sale at an undefined point in the future, the cost for the base model will be just under $50,000 - $49,900 to be exact - after a $7,500 government tax break. Business Insider has a word for that: Horsefeathers.

BI teamed up with Mark Boyadjis, an auto analyst at iSuppli, and they did some math based on actual numbers used in the auto industry and a lot of educated guesses. The result? They didn't exactly find a lot of room for profit if the car sells for $57,400. Their math is based on at least one error - they say the replacement battery for the Roadster is $36,000, but that's a carry-over mistake from Edmunds - it's actually $30,000. Still, that's the equivalent to the base price of an entire "near luxury" sedan - one that conventional automakers have trouble making margins on. That big, sexy touchscreen? Estimated to cost $4,000. Add everything from chassis and body panel costs to in distribution, marketing, further engineering, and lest we forget - building a factory, and Musk's price target starts to look more and more implausible.

BI has a good point here - Tesla needs to be careful with their pricing predictions. The ambitious startup made big financial mistakes when pricing the original Roadster - which didn't make everyone happy - and there's not a lot of room left to goof up a second time.


Gallery: Tesla Model S


[Source: Business Insider]

Can the Tesla Model S be profitable at $57,400? Not according to these calculations... originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Apr 2009 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autobloggreenElon MuskElonMuskgreenModel SModelSTelsatesla evtesla model stesla motorstesla roadstertesla sedanTeslaEvTeslaModelSTeslaMotorsTeslaRoadsterTeslaSedanWed, 29 Apr 2009 19:57:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Tesla CEO 99 percent sure of DOE loan, calls NYT writer "a huge douchebag"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/13/video-elon-99-per-cent-sure-of-doe-loan-calls-nyt-writer-a-hu/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/13/video-elon-99-per-cent-sure-of-doe-loan-calls-nyt-writer-a-hu/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/13/video-elon-99-per-cent-sure-of-doe-loan-calls-nyt-writer-a-hu/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Since it was announced that the highly quotable Bob Lutz would be departing from his General Motors management spotlight, automotive bloggers and reporters everywhere have been mourning the loss of an executive with such an exquisite way with words. Now it appears that the pining may have been premature, thanks to the emergence of another top management type with the brass, it seems, to freely speak his mind in public.

In a new interview with Yahoo! Tech Ticker's Sarah Lacy, Tesla CEO Elon Musk was asked what he thought of an earlier New York Times piece that voiced opposition to a government loan for the electric car maker. With a huge smile indicating his delight in the opportunity to speak about the issue, Musk announced that "Randy Stross is a huge douchebag". After a brief pause he added, "...and an idiot." Take that, Mr. Fancy Pants reporter guy!

In the course of the interview, Musk goes on to explain exactly how he felt the writer in question cherry-picked from the facts to make a case for Department of Energy loan denial, going on to vigorously defend the Tesla business model. In the conversation that followed the opening barrage, it was very interesting to note the certitude expressed by Elon that Tesla Motors would receive the low interest loan requested from the Advanced Technology Vehicles Manufacturing (ATVM) program. Noting that his company is a "perfect fit" for ATVM funds, he states, "The odds of us getting that money ($350 million) are 99 percent..." alluding to assurances given in private meetings, Musk suggested the funds are coming and coming soon. Hit the jump for the entertaining and informative video.


Gallery: Tesla Model S


[Source: Tech Ticker via Tesla Motors Club]

Continue reading VIDEO: Tesla CEO 99 percent sure of DOE loan, calls NYT writer "a huge douchebag"

VIDEO: Tesla CEO 99 percent sure of DOE loan, calls NYT writer "a huge douchebag" originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Apr 2009 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CEOelectric carElectricCarElon MuskElonMuskModel SModelSNew York TimesNewYorkTimesNYTplug-in electricPlug-inElectricRandy StrossRandyStrossTeslaTesla CEOTesla Model STesla MotorsTesla RoadsterTeslaCeoTeslaModelSTeslaMotorsTeslaRoadsterMon, 13 Apr 2009 14:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Tesla CEO vows to personally refund deposits if there's an "Armageddon scenario"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/06/tesla-ceo-vows-to-personally-refund-deposits-if-theres-an-arma/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/06/tesla-ceo-vows-to-personally-refund-deposits-if-theres-an-arma/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/06/tesla-ceo-vows-to-personally-refund-deposits-if-theres-an-arma/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,



Here's Tesla's Elon Musk, speaking in March (and just published in Car and Driver):
Even in the worst case of an Armageddon scenario, I'll personally refund people [their money] if need be.
While the U.S. federal government needs to step in and guarantee the warranties for General Motors and Chrysler vehicles should those companies enter bankruptcy, the loaded Musk (C&D calls him an "Internet zillionaire") is apparently unofficially willing to give people interested in his company's electric cars one more reason to buy. No details are available yet about what, exactly, Musk means by all of this (a Tesla spokesperson we reached declined to clarify), but this is slightly interesting, no?

Another detail from C&D's interview interview worth noting is that Musk believes that part of the money issues that became public earlier this year were caused by misrepresentations from a management team that has since left the company. The board thought the Roadster (which was selling for just over $90,000) cost $65,000 to make instead of the $140,000 it was estimated it was really costing the company to make the car a few years ago. Part of the solution was to reduce costs and to refine the car in order to offer the new Roadster Sport version at a higher price point.

[Source: Car and Driver via All Cars Electric]

Tesla CEO vows to personally refund deposits if there's an "Armageddon scenario" originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Apr 2009 19:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bailoutelon muskElonMuskModel SModelSrefundTeslatesla motorsTesla RoadsterTeslaMotorsTeslaRoadsterMon, 06 Apr 2009 19:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Tesla Model S gets over 500 reservations in first week]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/02/tesla-model-s-gets-over-500-reservations-in-first-week/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/02/tesla-model-s-gets-over-500-reservations-in-first-week/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/02/tesla-model-s-gets-over-500-reservations-in-first-week/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


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

It's been barely a week since the curtain was lifted on the Tesla Model S, and not only has its design received positive reviews, those sensuous lines have seduced 520 people to fork over some deposit cash for the new all-electric sedan. Tesla won't say, however, how many people chose the standard version that requires a refundable deposit of $5,000 or one of the 2,000 Signature Edition models that requires a $40,000 deposit.

Initial sales of the Model S have exceeded Tesla's expectations and are quite a feat considering the economic times, plus the fact that these cars are still a few years away from being delivered. The real test of the S's ability to beguile may come tonight as the all-electric sedan makes its East Coast debut. With the company attempting to secure a $350 million loan from the Department of Energy's Advanced Technology Vehicle Manufacturing Program for a plant in which to build the Model S, the car will begin a string of appearances on the right side of the country with a showing at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C.

Tesla also has good Roadster news. Production of the two-seater sports car continues to speed up and reached 104 units for the month of March. That gives the automaker a total of 170 Roadsters built for the first quarter of 2009 and about 320 altogether, in case you're keeping track. Hit the jump for the press release and bonus videos of the Tesla Model S in action, as well as having its auto-extending door handles explained by CEO Elon Musk.


Gallery: Tesla Model S


Gallery: Tesla Model S: LIVE REVEAL


[Source: Tesla Motors]

Continue reading Tesla Model S gets over 500 reservations in first week

Tesla Model S gets over 500 reservations in first week originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Apr 2009 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autobloggreenDepartment of Energys Advanced Technology Vehicle ManufacturingDepartmentOfEnergysAdvancedTechnologyVehicleManufacturingModel SModelSsales figuresSalesFiguresTeslaTesla Model STesla RoadsterTeslaModelSTeslaRoadsterThu, 02 Apr 2009 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Tesla Model S: $50,000 EV sedan seats seven, 300-mile range, 0-60 in 5.5s]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/26/tesla-model-s-50-000-ev-sedan-seats-seven-300-mile-range-0-6/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/26/tesla-model-s-50-000-ev-sedan-seats-seven-300-mile-range-0-6/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/26/tesla-model-s-50-000-ev-sedan-seats-seven-300-mile-range-0-6/#commentsFiled under: , ,


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

It's been a long and difficult road, but Tesla Motors has made it to unveiling No. 2. After a lot of hype and delivery of 250 Tesla Roadsters, the company's Model S was unveiled today in Hawthorne, California. Tesla was incredibly careful about not leaking a lot of information before today - designing the Model S at a high-security rocket facility helped with that, but we still got a peek a few hours ago - and now that it's here, we love what we see. As for new information on the Tesla For The Rest Of Us (sort of), follow the jump for all the details and check out the gallery of high res photos below.

UPDATE: We've added official pictures from Tesla, including this one of the Roadster and the Model S next to each other, to the second gallery below.


Gallery: Tesla Model S: LIVE REVEAL


Gallery: Tesla Model S


Live photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Tesla Model S: $50,000 EV sedan seats seven, 300-mile range, 0-60 in 5.5s

Tesla Model S: $50,000 EV sedan seats seven, 300-mile range, 0-60 in 5.5s originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Mar 2009 17:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autobloggreenbreakingmodel sModelStesla model stesla motorsTeslaModelSTeslaMotorsThu, 26 Mar 2009 17:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Leak! Tesla Model S pics surface on web ahead of today's debut]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/26/leak-tesla-model-s-pics-surface-on-web-ahead-of-todays-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/26/leak-tesla-model-s-pics-surface-on-web-ahead-of-todays-debut/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/26/leak-tesla-model-s-pics-surface-on-web-ahead-of-todays-debut/#commentsFiled under: , ,


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

Tesla has a big media event planned today at 12PM PST to unveil the new Model S sedan. That plan has been blow out of the water a bit thanks to social media mogul Kevin Rose, the founder of Digg.com, who has uploaded what appear to be a few official images of the all-electric sedan on his Flickr page. We get two views of the car's backside, which looks to crib design cues from modern day Jaguars and Aston Martins. The new XF comes most readily to mind, and while the Model S may be charged with being too heavily influenced by the leaping cat brand, that doesn't take away from the fact that it still looks stunning.

We also have a view of what appears to be an incomplete interior of the Model S, and the most striking element is a center stack comprised entirely of a screen. While we have no details on the car yet, it appears the Model S may feature configurable controls for most of the car's systems (HVAC, audio, etc.) on this large, touch-sensitive display.

Tesla has already revealed that the anticipated base price of the Model S will be $57,400, but will drop to below $50,000 with a federal tax credit of $7,500. We'll be at the unveiling later today and bring back live pictures of the Model S.


Gallery: Tesla Model S


[Source: Flickr]

Leak! Tesla Model S pics surface on web ahead of today's debut originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Mar 2009 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingmodel sModelSteslatesla modeltesla model sTeslaModelTeslaModelSThu, 26 Mar 2009 12:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Tesla Model S will cost under $50,000 after tax breaks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/19/tesla-model-s-will-cost-57-400-just-49-900-after-tax-breaks/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/19/tesla-model-s-will-cost-57-400-just-49-900-after-tax-breaks/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/19/tesla-model-s-will-cost-57-400-just-49-900-after-tax-breaks/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above to enlarge Tesla Model S teaser

When Tesla formally announced the Model S Sedan last June, the MSRP bandied was about $60,000 for the all-electric sedan. In its newsletter today, Tesla has confirmed that the "anticipated base price" for the Model S will be $57,400. With a federal tax credit of $7,500 available, however, the Model S should cost just $49,900. Details on what's included in the base version of the Model S should be available at the vehicle's official unveiling next week. Tesla says that even with a sub-$50,000 price tag (just barely), the Model S is really competing with cars that cost much less:

Because of tax incentives and relatively inexpensive maintenance and refueling, the lifetime ownership cost will be closer to cars with far lower sticker prices. [...] The Model S will become the car of choice for environmentally conscious and discriminating drivers throughout North America and Europe.

For comparison's sake, the Fisker Karma, a luxury plug-in hybrid sedan, will start at $87,900. The Chevy Volt will probably be somewhere around $40,000, though GM has not made any official announcement about its price.

[Source: Tesla]

Continue reading Tesla Model S will cost under $50,000 after tax breaks

Tesla Model S will cost under $50,000 after tax breaks originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Mar 2009 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autobloggreenbreakingmodel smodel s priceModelSModelSPricetesla model stesla model s priceTeslaModelSTeslaModelSPriceThu, 19 Mar 2009 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Chicago 2009: City of big shoulders... and big smiles]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/12/chicago-2009-city-of-big-shoulders-and-big-smiles/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/12/chicago-2009-city-of-big-shoulders-and-big-smiles/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/12/chicago-2009-city-of-big-shoulders-and-big-smiles/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above to view our gallery of booth professionals from Chicago

It was only a matter of time before we got around to posting our beautiful people gallery from the Chicago Auto Show. Models have been pretty scarce at all of the major shows this year, and this year's Chi-town extravaganza was no exception. We've done our level best to search out those who've shown up to give them some screen time. As always, we appreciate the tireless work of the booth professionals who have to stand in heels all day and pretend to be happy to see another camera shoved in their faces. Many have mentioned that they are fans of Autoblog, but we suspect they say that to everyone. Still, we know that many will be viewing this post (with their families in some cases) so please keep your comments to yourself if you don't have anything nice to say.

Gallery: Chicago 2009: Booth professionals


Live photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio / Weblogs, inc.

Chicago 2009: City of big shoulders... and big smiles originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Feb 2009 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 chicago2009 chicago auto show2009Chicago2009ChicagoAutoShowbabesbooth professionalsBoothProfessionalschicago 2009chicago auto showChicago2009ChicagoAutoShowmodelsThu, 12 Feb 2009 19:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Detroit 2009: Motor City guys and dolls....but mostly dolls]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/12/detroit-2009-motor-city-guys-and-dolls-but-mostly-dolls/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/12/detroit-2009-motor-city-guys-and-dolls-but-mostly-dolls/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/12/detroit-2009-motor-city-guys-and-dolls-but-mostly-dolls/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above for a gallery of high-res pics of some of the faces from Detroit '09
There are lots of people here in Detroit for the NAIAS, and there are lots of moments that have little to do with the cars themselves. So we figured we'd do a roundup gallery to show you some of the personal moments from this year's Detroit Auto Show. Some of the faces you'll undoubtedly recognize, while others you'll probably hope to get to know better. Check out the gallery and you'll see sports announcers, execs, kids, even a model or two. As always, we appreciate the tireless work of the booth professionals who have to stand in heels all day and pretend to be happy to see another camera shoved in their faces. Many have mentioned that they are fans of Autoblog, but we suspect they say that to everyone. Still, we know some will be viewing this post so please be civil and keep your comments clean.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: Detroit people gallery


Photos copyright (C)2009 Frank Filipponio / Weblogs, Inc.

Detroit 2009: Motor City guys and dolls....but mostly dolls originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Jan 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>booth babesbooth professionalsBoothBabesBoothProfessionalsdetroitdetroit 2009detroit auto showDetroit2009DetroitAutoShowmodelsnaiasnaias 2009Naias2009north american international auto showNorthAmericanInternationalAutoShowMon, 12 Jan 2009 19:58:00 EST<![CDATA[We want Limited Edition Dodge Challenger sculptures ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/09/we-want-limited-edition-dodge-challenger-sculptures/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/09/we-want-limited-edition-dodge-challenger-sculptures/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/09/we-want-limited-edition-dodge-challenger-sculptures/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above for image gallery of the Bend Rod Garage Challenger sculptures

We've come to that time of year when hear sentences that sound like this: "You wanted X (insert obscenely out-of-reach gift here), but that didn't work out so let us present Y!" And Y is always some little tchotchke that relentlessly reminds you that you don't have the X you want. Well, that's not the case with these Dodge Challenger sculptures, because we want one of them even though we're not in the market for an actual Challenger. The 12-inch resin sculptures made by Bent Rod Garage come in three factory colors, are limited to a run of just 300 units and will only cost you $120 out the door. Check out the gallery of images below, visit Bent Rod Garage for yourself and see if you think there's a better way to say "funky" this holiday season. Thanks for the tip, Tobias!

Gallery: Bent Rod Garage Challenger Series


[Source: Bent Rod Garage via Musclecars]

We want Limited Edition Dodge Challenger sculptures originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Dec 2008 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bent rod garageBentRodGaragechristmas giftsChristmasGiftsdodge challengerdodge challenger sculpturesDodgeChallengerDodgeChallengerSculpturesgiftsmodelstoysTue, 09 Dec 2008 13:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Tesla Model S sedan could have swappable battery pack]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/21/tesla-model-s-sedan-could-have-swappable-battery-pack/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/21/tesla-model-s-sedan-could-have-swappable-battery-pack/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/11/21/tesla-model-s-sedan-could-have-swappable-battery-pack/#commentsFiled under: ,



There are three main obstacles to making electric cars a viable alternative to those powered by internal combustion engines: the weight, cost and range of the batteries. Internal combustion engines have range limits based on the size of their fuel tank, but it only takes a few minutes to dump 10-15 gallons of liquid fuel in the tank and be on your way. It takes hours to recharge a battery. Fast charging systems are being developed, but they will require new infrastructure for the high currents and voltages required. The cost issue also works against range. You can reduce cost with a smaller battery, but you know what happens then. A battery with more range is both heavier and more expensive. How about a smaller swappable battery? That's one of the possible alternatives that Tesla is considering for the Model S sedan. This brings a whole different set of problems with it. Even smaller batteries will weigh several hundred pounds, making them difficult to handle. There are also safety issues with handling high voltage batteries. You also need a distribution infrastructure for the batteries and automakers have to standardize on common pack formats to make the whole idea viable. It's not like popping into a drug store for a set of AAs for you camera. Tesla's bright idea just goes to show that electric cars have a long way to go before they can replace internal combustion engines completely.

[Source: Inside Line]

Tesla Model S sedan could have swappable battery pack originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 21 Nov 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>model sModelSswappable batterySwappableBatteryteslatesla model stesla motorsTeslaModelSTeslaMotorsFri, 21 Nov 2008 10:00:00 EST