Tesla unveils the Model X – the world’s longest range electric SUV

"Any type of car can go electric," says Elon Musk, founder of Tesla Motors.

This week, the company unveiled their Model X, a fully electric SUV that has the electric accelleration that Tesla is known for (0-60 in 3.2 seconds) and travels 250 miles on a single charge.

Being described as "the safest SUV ever," it is the first SUV to have a 5 star safety rating in every category.  Musk explains that the star rating is not a statistical number, but of a rough reference point.  For every star, 2 and up, you begin to reduce your chance of serious injury in a high speed accident by 5%.  So, whereas a 2 star rating means a 25% chance of serious injury, 5 star means a 10% chance.  The Model X has a 6.5% chace of injury in a serious accident, surpassing the 5 star safety review.

The car has ultrasonic sensors and radar that will cause it to automatically brake to avoid a collision and steer you away to avoid side impact.  It's air filter is 10x the size of a regular car's air filter and hundreds of times more effective at filtering out bacteria, virusesm soot, smog and allergens.  Musk compares the air cleanliness inside the car to that of a hospital operating room.

The rear car opens with facon wings and take up almost no space if you are jammed into a parking spot.

Like an "invisible chauffer," the front doors can detect you arriving and open and close automatically for you.

The windshield gives a panoramic view and increases visibility, similar to being in a helicopter cockpit.  Musk details it as "transformative in the driving experience."

 

The car seats 7 and can tow 5,000 pound while full, in addition to being packed with luggage.

And, of course, the car produces no emissions.

Tesla is receiving pre-orders for the car with a $5,000 deposit and an expected deliver in the second half of 2016.  The total cost comes in around $130,000 and cheaper versions of the car are planned to be released after launch.

 

Here is Musk at the press release

 

http://inhabitat.com/tesla-unveils-the-model-x-the-worlds-longest-range-electric-suv/