Pics Aplenty: Tesla Roadster Sport

Tesla hasn't released any more details on the Roadster Sport, but it has released a handful of renderings depicting what the Elise-based EV will look like when it goes on sale in June.

As a refresher, the Tesla Roadster Sport is an upgrade package that includes a new hand-wound stator that increases torque, resulting in a claimed 0-60 time of 3.7 seconds – 0.2 seconds faster than the standard model. Adjustable dampers and anti-roll bars are fitted underneath and a set of grippy Yokohama Advan A048s – the same tires mounted on the Elise/Exige – are wrapped around dark finish Tesla wheels. Tesla includes unique "sport" badging to the Roadster and pricing has been set at $128,500 in the U.S. Customers that have already placed an order for the standard Roadster can upgrade to Sport trim, but until we hear some revised skid pad numbers, get an independent confirmation on the 0-60 time and go for a drive, we'll keep our opinions about the validity of the Sport model to ourselves.

Hit the jump for the press release.

PRESS RELEASE

SAN CARLOS, Calif.--Tesla Motors Inc. began taking orders today for the Roadster Sport, a high-performance sports car based on the world's leading all-electric, zero-emission vehicle.

The Roadster Sport does 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds, compared with 3.9 seconds for the standard Roadster. It comes with a hand-wound stator and increased winding density for lower resistance and higher peak torque. In addition to Yokohama's Ultra High Performance tires, the Roadster Sport has improved suspension with adjustable dampers and anti-roll bars that will be tuned to the driver's preference.

The Roadster Sport starts at $128,500 in the United States and €112,000 (excluding VAT) in Europe. Deliveries begin in late June.

"This car can beat nearly anything in its price class – yet it is twice as efficient as compact hybrid sedans," said Michael van der Sande, Tesla's senior vice president of global sales, service and marketing. "If you refuse to compromise on performance or the environment, the Roadster Sport is your only option."

The Roadster Sport is the first derivative of Tesla's proprietary, patented powertrain. San Carlos, Calif.-based Tesla plans to begin producing the all-electric, zero-emission Model S five-passenger sedan in 2011.

Tesla has delivered more than 150 Roadsters to customers, and about 1,100 people are on the waiting list. Customers who haven't taken delivery may upgrade to the Roadster Sport.

"The Roadster Sport embodies Tesla's spirit of continuous improvement," said CEO, Chairman and Product Architect Elon Musk. "The Roadster has been a great success, but no one at this company remains satisfied with the status quo."