Product Reviews Net » Tesla Motors http://www.product-reviews.net Information on the latest gadgets, technology, news and product reviews Sun, 27 May 2012 15:14:43 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3.2 Range compromise with Tesla Model X over S http://www.product-reviews.net/2012/02/11/range-compromise-with-tesla-model-x-over-s/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=range-compromise-with-tesla-model-x-over-s http://www.product-reviews.net/2012/02/11/range-compromise-with-tesla-model-x-over-s/#comments Sat, 11 Feb 2012 22:25:42 +0000 Peter Chubb http://www.product-reviews.net/?p=148677 The reveal of the Tesla Model X raised some good points when it comes to sharing parts from one of its cars to another, and even though 60 percent of those parts come from the popular Model S there are more than enough differences to cater for a different market.

It makes perfect sense to do this, as it will not only keep costs down but there will not be the issue of reliability issues because they already know more than half of the parts being used for the upcoming CUV are tried and tested. Whiles it’s easy to focus on the positives we shouldn’t forget about the negatives as well, so we need to consider the impact of the weight.

The Model X is around 10 percent heavier than the S and when you consider they will use the same 60 kWh or 85 kWh battery packs the range will be less than the smaller model. Many potential customers will overlook this but it’s still something that needs to be considered before you part with $60,000-$90,000 before tax credits, which is the expected price you will be paying for this latest EV.

So we know most of the Model X will share the same technology as the Model S, but it will be the other 40 percent that will make the newer model very different. The importance of this will be seen the moment you start to look at the other features of the car, such as the seven seats, the different doors and room for extra luggage – again this will have an impact on the overall range of the vehicle.

Having said that while there may be an issue with the range when compared to the Model S where the CUV will excel is in the performance, so it’s easy to tell that Tesla has tried to find the perfect balance with their latest creation.

In a recent article we can see that the entry level Model X will achieve 0-60mph in just 4.4 seconds and will come with rear-wheel or all-wheel drive options.

Upon further investigation into the range of the new Model X it looks as though the entry level 60-kWh battery will be good for 200 to 210 while the more-powerful 85-kWh battery should be good for a range of 260 to 270 miles. Both these figures are far greater than the Nissan Leaf but then again you will only be paying around $28,000, which is at least $32,000 cheaper.

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]]> http://www.product-reviews.net/2012/02/11/range-compromise-with-tesla-model-x-over-s/feed/ 1 Skepticism regarding Tesla Model S, review impresses http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/10/05/skepticism-regarding-tesla-model-s-review-impresses/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=skepticism-regarding-tesla-model-s-review-impresses http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/10/05/skepticism-regarding-tesla-model-s-review-impresses/#comments Wed, 05 Oct 2011 11:21:15 +0000 Peter Chubb http://www.product-reviews.net/?p=142170 Expectations for the Tesla Model S is now reaching fever point, as its release date draws ever closer. Earlier this week we reported that there was going to be a special performance version, as well as some of the entertainment tech that will be used inside to fulfill your needs. Although there has been excitement for this upcoming EV, there has also been some skepticism, but we are hoping that a recent visit to the plant will offer some positive reviews.

The prototype that Tesla was showing off was only 80 percent complete, which means that journalists will be all over the faults, and there are bound to be a few. Not sure they would have invited Jeremy Clarkson, as we all know how he feels about these kinds of vehicles. There are five beta version, with three used for testing either the interior equipment or the ride.

The skepticism that we spoke of was all to do if Tesla would be able to get the Model S to production in the time that they said, and Autoblog claims that after testing the electric vehicle, their fears “were laid to rest.” In the review it makes a point of saying how impressed they were with the car, considering the fact that it was a prototype. The finish to the body and interior were much better than you would imagine for a test car, and shows that Tesla is more than up for the challenge of starting production in January. However, you can clearly tell that it was a prototype, as wires were hanging down in the interior.

The ride is where it really matters for the Model S, as they do not want something that feels like an EV. Body roll was kept to a minimum, a must for a car like this. The car will surprise you in the way that it can handle being pushed a little around a racetrack. If you are one of those potential buyers with your name down for a Model S, then you will be happy to know that Tesla has done you proud.

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]]> http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/10/05/skepticism-regarding-tesla-model-s-review-impresses/feed/ 0 Tesla Model S: Review of entertainment and apps http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/10/03/tesla-model-s-review-of-entertainment-and-apps/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=tesla-model-s-review-of-entertainment-and-apps http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/10/03/tesla-model-s-review-of-entertainment-and-apps/#comments Mon, 03 Oct 2011 14:32:00 +0000 Peter Chubb http://www.product-reviews.net/?p=141857 With not long to go until the launch of the Tesla Model S (which is to also get a performance version) we thought that we should take a look at some of the other aspects of the car, such as entertainment and apps. The two things that you will notice first when looking at the interior is the two screens; you have the 12.3-inch LCD in front of the steering wheel and also a 17-inch one that takes pride of place on the center console.

The smaller of the two will display information such as speed, fuel consumption, and how much power the electric motor has until a recharge is needed. We have seen that more cars are now going with a touchscreen interface, and although this is great for you tech minded drivers, we cannot help but feel that Tesla Motors has not used some of the technology that is available.

The screen serves as the main hub for the car, but we do not understand why they have gone the way of infrared and not projected capacitive technology? That being said, it’s a start and much better than having standard buttons. However, one has to wonder if having more technology like this will drain the batteries down than going with a more conventional interior?

Forbes got to spend a little bit of time with the Model S, and did point out one reason why Tesla Motors went for that kind of screen and not one used by the iPad, and that is because you can interact with the screen even with gloves on, which is a real bonus – especially if you want to keep the heat down in the car to prolong the range.

Reading the specs of the system, it’s as if we are looking at the hardware of a tablet or smartphone. You can expect an Nvidia Tegra 2; although this could be bumped to the Tegra 3 by the time the electric vehicle sees its release. By using a powerful chip this will give developers an easier task when developing apps for the system. The only issue that we see with these apps is that they will not be designed for Android, as it is believed that Linux will be used instead.

With so much interest surround the Model S, you would have thought that the carmaker would have gone down a more popular route, such as Android or iOS. The reason we say this is because consumers would have had a far greater choice when it came to apps, although not too certain how much need there is for a huge array of apps?

Having said that, some of the apps that you can expect to see are perfect for those into entertainment, such as the Slacker radio app and text-to-voice apps. However, there are many more third-party apps coming, we just do not know what at the moment.

What apps would you like to see used in the Tesla Model S?

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]]> http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/10/03/tesla-model-s-review-of-entertainment-and-apps/feed/ 0 New performance details for Tesla Model S http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/10/03/new-performance-details-for-tesla-model-s/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=new-performance-details-for-tesla-model-s http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/10/03/new-performance-details-for-tesla-model-s/#comments Mon, 03 Oct 2011 07:33:23 +0000 Peter Chubb http://www.product-reviews.net/?p=141851 If we were to go back 5 years ago, then it looked as though the hybrid vehicle was the future, but as these still rely on gasoline to power its internal combustion engine, it’s outlook is limited. The outcome is very different for the electric vehicle, as there are many ways for an EV to get its power. There has already been an increase in the models available, but the Tesla Model S is the one that we all want – even though most will never be able to own one.

Anticipation has now started to build for this new model, but there is still a lot we do not know, such as the fact that there will be two version of the EV. We have recently learned that there is to be a performance version, and if we are to believe what WSJ is telling us, then it will be able to out-drag a 2011 Porsche 911 Carrera from standstill.

The high-performance version will not have all its own way with the Porsche though, as they to have an option that will match the Model S, both will go from 0-60mph in just 4.5 seconds. The shocking thing is, the Tesla will do that kind of speed without letting out any harmful gasses from its tailpipe.

The performance figures for this new version has certainly shocked us, as it means that it will be up there with the likes of the Audi R8 and also the Chevrolet Corvette. The technology behind an EV still has a long way to go, but the Tesla Model S has managed to utilize the technology far greater than Nissan has with its Leaf. However, like all things you pay for what you get.

Back in March we had assumed that the starting price would be around $57,000, but this figure is more likely to be about $50,000 instead when it becomes available next year.

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]]> http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/10/03/new-performance-details-for-tesla-model-s/feed/ 0 Tesla Roadster’s Hertz rental deal, price an issue http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/05/21/tesla-roadsters-hertz-rental-deal-price-an-issue/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=tesla-roadsters-hertz-rental-deal-price-an-issue http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/05/21/tesla-roadsters-hertz-rental-deal-price-an-issue/#comments Fri, 20 May 2011 23:17:45 +0000 Peter Chubb http://www.product-reviews.net/?p=131649 Back in December last year the Tesla Roadster’s Hertz rental deal became part of their electric vehicle program. We can now tell you that the green sports car is now available in a number of places throughout the US. There is still an issue with the price, yes you do not have to spend $109,000, but $1,500 for a day is considered to be a bit of a premium.

This is not part of the normal rental service, but Hertz Entertainment. The reason for this is that larger then average rental price tag. What makes this EV so popular is that it is able to achieve 125mph, along with a 0-60mph time of just 3.7 seconds. You have two color choices, Thunder Gray or Fusion Red and two model options, hardtop or convertible.

What makes this service even more special is the fact that you do not need to go to your local Hertz dealer, as they will deliver the Tesla Roadster to your door. Now that this service has extended across North America, it is now expected for Hertz to include it in China by the end of 2012.

We know that the numbers of these vehicles are limited, so you will only be able to rent one if you are a member. However, this is a simple process, all you need do is visit the Connect by Hertz website for all the details and choose where you are based and then the rest is simple.

Would you consider hiring a Tesla Roadster considering how expensive it is to own one?

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]]> http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/05/21/tesla-roadsters-hertz-rental-deal-price-an-issue/feed/ 0 Top Gear Sued by Tesla Motors: Do they go too far? http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/03/31/top-gear-sued-by-tesla-motors-do-they-go-too-far/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=top-gear-sued-by-tesla-motors-do-they-go-too-far http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/03/31/top-gear-sued-by-tesla-motors-do-they-go-too-far/#comments Thu, 31 Mar 2011 08:46:35 +0000 Peter Chubb http://www.product-reviews.net/?p=127151 There is no denying how much fun BBC’s Top gear program is, and although informative there are times when they anger others. It is no secret that the show has had it’s fair share of issues when it comes to legal issue, so the news that Top Gear is sued by Tesla Motors over the Roadster comes as no surprise.

The carmaker has cited “malicious falsehood” over an episode of the show that was aired over two years ago. The reason was because when Jeremy Clarkson test-drove the Roadster he showed that it had run out of charge before the test was complete. Tesla had tried to contact the BBC about this, but according to the carmaker all attempts failed.

We do not want to offer any opinion on this issue, as it is now a matter for the courts, but it seems that salt is being added into the wounds all the time for Tesla, as people can see re-runs of the Roadster on Top gear, as well as videos on YouTube. The Tesla Roadster is said to be one of the most fuel-efficient cars on the road.

We have to wonder who will be taking aim at Top Gear next, this is not the first and will not be the last? We are huge fans of the show, but we will refrain from our opinion on this matter for obvious reasons.

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]]> http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/03/31/top-gear-sued-by-tesla-motors-do-they-go-too-far/feed/ 0 Tesla Roadster Competition: Artega set to take them on with SE Electric Sports Car http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/03/14/tesla-roadster-competition-artega-set-to-take-them-on-with-se-electric-sports-car/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=tesla-roadster-competition-artega-set-to-take-them-on-with-se-electric-sports-car http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/03/14/tesla-roadster-competition-artega-set-to-take-them-on-with-se-electric-sports-car/#comments Mon, 14 Mar 2011 20:47:36 +0000 Chris Maugham http://www.product-reviews.net/?p=125320 Electric vehicles are becoming more and more common amongst new cars manufactured these days. With the Geneva Motor Show having recently debuted a few more new ones. There is still plenty of space in the market for electric sports cars however with only a few so far actually making the production line.

One of these cars is the Tesla Roadster. We previously brought you news about the Tesla Roadster back in July last year but now it seems finally the vehicle has a worthy competitor the Artega SE which was one of the cars which debuted at the events in Geneva just recently.

According to an article by Omar Rana at egmCarTech the SE (sport electric) manufacturer Artega say they plan on producing 500 models a year starting in 2012. Artega are previously responsible for the Artega GT which while it wasn’t an electric sports car was still able to 0-60 in less than 5 seconds.

This Artega SE will also be capable of such speeds and will be able to comfortably travel up to 124 miles off one 90 minute charge. It reaches speeds of 155mph and has a 37kW lithium polymer battery accompanied by a 375hp engine produced with twin electric motors in the rear.

More details about this car can be found at the link above where you will find if you’re thinking of getting one of these it will cost you around $200,000 or €150,000 to be exact. What do you think of the Artega SE? Will you be getting one? Let us know in the comments below.

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]]> http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/03/14/tesla-roadster-competition-artega-set-to-take-them-on-with-se-electric-sports-car/feed/ 0 Tesla Model S New Details On All-Electric Car, Plus price http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/03/08/tesla-model-s-new-details-on-all-electric-car-plus-price/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=tesla-model-s-new-details-on-all-electric-car-plus-price http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/03/08/tesla-model-s-new-details-on-all-electric-car-plus-price/#comments Tue, 08 Mar 2011 14:12:00 +0000 Chris Maugham http://www.product-reviews.net/?p=124637 2011 has seen a lot of electric cars being announced and the Geneva Motor Show was no exception with one of them even making the final three nominees for World Car of the Year. We previously brought you specs for the Tesla Model S and today we are pleased to bring you even more details about it plus a price.

This all-electric vehicle is due to be released in the US around the middle of 2012. The start of 2012 for European and Asian countries, with right-hand drive cars not expected until mid-2013. Tesla will roll out 5000 Model Ss through the year, 3700 of which have been reserved for $5000 each.

The first 1000 will be limited editions. These will feature ‘an extensive complement of options,’ special badging and a 300 mile range battery. Each launch across the globe will get the same limited edition releases as the U.S launch.

The Model S will offer two other options. As well as the 300 mile version which will set you back $77,400; you will also be able to get 230 mile and 160 mile versions, costing you $67,500 and $57,000 respectively. Tesla also plan on releasing another 20,000 models in 2013.

For more details on the Tesla vehicle check out GreenBeat. What do you think of this all electric Model S so far? Are the prices reasonable and will you be getting one? Let us know below.

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]]> http://www.product-reviews.net/2011/03/08/tesla-model-s-new-details-on-all-electric-car-plus-price/feed/ 0 2011 Electric Cars: Top 8 Models http://www.product-reviews.net/2010/11/10/2011-electric-cars-top-8-models/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=2011-electric-cars-top-8-models http://www.product-reviews.net/2010/11/10/2011-electric-cars-top-8-models/#comments Wed, 10 Nov 2010 08:52:14 +0000 Peter Chubb http://www.product-reviews.net/?p=113378 Over the past few years there has been a huge amount of media attention over hybrid vehicles, and although they have come a long way in the short amount of years they have been on the market – they have not taken off as much as we all had hoped. However, as with all markets things evolve, which is where the electric cars come in, and there are a host of models that should sell well in 2011.

The first model, and one that is fresh on our minds is the Nissan Leaf, this is just one of the cars that is totally electric. The vehicle has a range of just 100 miles, making this an ideal city car. Prices for this will start at under $26,000. For more details visit Nissan USA. Also remember that Nissan has three successors planned for the Leaf over the next few years.

Next up we have the Coda, this is also 100 percent electric and has a range of 90 miles – 120 miles, about the same as the Leaf then. The Coda has a top speed of 80mph, but what more do you need from an EV? For more details visit Coda.

The Tesla Roadster is an electric car with a difference, as it can reach greater speeds than most of the others. The vehicle will get form 0-60mph in just 3.9 seconds, that’s faster than most cars that run on gasoline. The Tesla Roadster has a range of 245 miles, so more than just a city car. However, this comes at a premium, as prices are much more than you standard EV. Get more details by visiting Tesla Motors.

These are just three models that will do very well in 2011, for the complete list of 8 electric vehicle models visit Practical Environmentalist.

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]]> http://www.product-reviews.net/2010/11/10/2011-electric-cars-top-8-models/feed/ 0 Tesla Motors CEO on Nissan Leaf: Primitive battery technology http://www.product-reviews.net/2010/08/09/tesla-motors-ceo-on-nissan-leaf-primitive-battery-technology/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=tesla-motors-ceo-on-nissan-leaf-primitive-battery-technology http://www.product-reviews.net/2010/08/09/tesla-motors-ceo-on-nissan-leaf-primitive-battery-technology/#comments Mon, 09 Aug 2010 13:54:14 +0000 Peter Chubb http://www.product-reviews.net/?p=106201 There are two very important cars coming up, the Chevy Volt and the Nissan Leaf. The one grabbing the headlines recently has been the Leaf and the bold claims that Nissan has made about the battery technology. However, Tesla Motors CEO is not convinced and has come out saying that the technology is primitive.

Elon Musk had said this during a recent conference call with shareholders, saying that he has no fears that Nissan will better them when it comes to cost-per-kWh. The reason is because Nissan believes that they have now broken the $400/kWh mark.

According to Josie Garthwaite from Earth2Tech, Musk was asked in the call if Tesla had any plans to try and drive down costs; it was then that he made the comment about the Japanese carmaker – believing that the Tesla system is more complex.

One of the main differences between the two technologies is how they keep themselves cool. The Tesla system cools the battery with liquid, whereas Nissan has chosen to go with the cheaper air-cooling system. However, consumers will not care too much about that, all they will care about is cost – this could force Tesla to drop their prices.

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