Tesla Model X electric SUV takes automotive industry to next level

Yesterday, Tesla Motors unveiled Model X: its new electric sport utility vehicle (SUV) at Fremont, California. The specifications are stunning. It seems like Tony Stark has built a luxury supercar equipped with technologies which are still a far cry for common people. The one-of-a-kinds SUV is expected to be an eco-friendly gift to the automotive industry and the world dependent on alternative fuels.

Tesla’s Model X has impressive double-hinged falcon-wing doors that open easily in a congested parking spaces; it requires only 30 cm of space on either side of the car. Inside, it offers six to seven seats, depending on the opted configuration of central seat. The Model X is fully equipped with sensors, including a radar and sonar system.

No wonder doors can open as they it detects a person moving towards the car. Using ultrasounds, doors can avoid bumping into things while opening. Sensors also help in deployment of automatic brakes in emergency conditions. Through a 43 cm touchscreen display, user can control all driving and entertainment systems. The most hyped feature of the luxury SUV is a ‘bioweapon defense mode’ that Elon Musk claims is 800 times more efficient at filtering viruses than other cars available in the market. However, the feature almost failed to convince experts, as they say the idea of calling it a bioweapon safe vehicle is ridiculous. Then, there are few who called the launch event a marketing and PR disaster.

The 4×4 electric SUV features dual motors and a 90 kWh battery pack. Front motor produces 259 hp while the rear one can go up to 503 hp to deliver a combined torque of 713 lb-ft. The car can go 0-60 in 3.2 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. Tesla’s official specifications include 8-year, infinite mile battery and drive unit warranty.

Model X is one of most aerodynamic SUVs with a 0.24 coefficient of drag. Musk demonstrated its towing as much as 5,000 pounds weight. A 550 W music system comes with 17 speakers onboard.

The SUV deserves appreciation for its safety standards. The carmaker claims chances of getting injured at a high-speed accident are as low as 6.5 percent. A huge crumple zone in the front portion is included for additional safety with a low center of gravity to prevent rollovers.

The vehicle features a large medical grade HEPA filter, which is more effective against pollutants, microbes and viruses.

Tinted glass windshield, claims Tesla, is the largest so far in any production car for a wider view.

With a whopping price-tag of $144,000, Model X is beyond the reach of an average consumer who wishes to switch to zero-emission ride. High cost of battery-technologies and low-storage capacity are two of the main reasons electric cars are expensive. That means, in future, as high-density and low-cost batteries will be available at a competitive price, cost of EVs will automatically come down.