Tesla to expand model range

Californian firm Tesla will use the battery and drive technology it debuted in its groundbreaking Roadster in a range of new models.

The powerful battery and electric motor, which gives the Roadster model the ability to reach 60mph in 3.9 seconds and travel 227 miles on a single charge will feature on a new Tesla saloon in 2010.

Unlike the Roadster, which borrows its underpinnings from Lotus, the new saloon will use its own chassis.

Tesla claims the new model which is currently called 'Model S' will be a full five seater, interior space maximised due to the drivetrain technology being packaged under the floor.

Performance for the saloon should be as just impressive as the Roadster model, Tesla claiming a 0-60mph time of under 6 seconds and range of in excess of 225 miles.

The design of the new car is due to be signed off soon, Tesla having just employed ex-Mazda designer Franz Von Holzhausen.

That appointment should mean the styling of future models is as exciting as the performance, Holzhausen credited with Mazda's stunning Nagare and Furai concepts.

The modular nature of the underpinnings of the Model S would allow Tesla to spin-off other models from the platform, giving the small firm the ability to add an SUV or large GT car to the line-up.

Tesla's electric drivetrain uses lithium-ion batteries, allowing green motoring with no tailpipe emissions.

To be truly green though the electricity used to charge the batteries needs to be sourced from carbon neutral outlets, many wealthy early adopters of the Roadster using wind turbines and solar power to generate clean energy for their cars.

With interest in the Roadster high, the addition of a new saloon model will require Tesla to expand its production facility in California to cope with the extra demand the new model line will create.

Kyle Fortune