Tesla Launches Model S Reservations in Canada

TORONTO--(Marketwire - Jun 9, 2011) - Tesla Motors (NASDAQ: TSLA) is now taking reservations in Canada for Model S, the world's first premium electric sedan. Deliveries of Model S will begin in mid-2012.

Model S is the first sedan designed from the ground up as an electric vehicle. By taking a revolutionary approach to vehicle engineering, Tesla has designed Model S for superior aerodynamics, stability and handling, crash safety, performance and range. The sedan features a floor-mounted battery pack creating unprecedented space in the interior of the car, and a second storage space under the front hood.

With the most advanced electric powertrain in the industry, Model S will accelerate from 0 to 100 km/hr in less than 6 seconds. Tesla will offer three range options with Model S: 260-km, 370-km, and 480-km. Model S can be recharged using any conventional outlet and charge in as little as 45 minutes.

"Model S is a groundbreaking vehicle that will offer a drive experience that surpasses any that have come before it," says Canada National Sales Manager Hans Ulsrud. "Designed for performance and engineered for efficiency, Model S will not only have unprecedented functionality, but also be incredibly fun to drive."

The vehicle will also include a 43-cm touchscreen with in-car 3G connectivity, allowing drivers to seamlessly switch between navigation, media and internal controls -- and monitor charging status remotely from their smart phones or computers. Model S will seat five adults and two children.

Tesla will produce 5,000 Model S sedans in 2012, before ramping up to 20,000 units per year in 2013. The first 1,000 cars off the line will make up the North American Model S Signature Series, equipped with the 480-km range battery pack, unique badging and comprehensive options.

Tesla is taking reservations for Model S online. It plans to open a store in Toronto in the near future, adding to its roster of 18 showrooms around the world.

The Model S design prototype will be on display for the public in Toronto from June 11-18.

About Tesla

Tesla's goal is to produce a full range of electric cars, from sports cars to mass-market vehicles -- relentlessly driving down the cost of electric vehicles. It is currently the only U.S. automaker that builds and sells highway-capable EVs in serial production. Palo Alto, California-based Tesla designs and manufactures EVs and EV powertrain components. Tesla has delivered more than 1,600 Roadsters to customers in North America, Europe and the Asia Pacific Region. Model S, the first premium sedan to be built from the ground up as an electric vehicle, goes on the market in mid-2012.