The Mercedes-Benz 300SL successfully incorporated its famous gullwing doors into a production car, will the new Tesla Model X be able to do the same?
Original Article: Sam Hason on July 1, 2015
http://www.businessfinancenews.com/22929-tesla-motors-inc-model-x-what-we-know-leaked-pictures/
Leaked pictures of the Tesla Model X reveal some crucial details of the design of the gull-winged SUV
Tesla Motors Inc (NASDAQ:TSLA) has announced a robust launch of its latest offering, the Model X, an innovative gull-winged Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV), by the third quarter of fiscal year 2015. However, not many details have been disclosed by CEO Elon Musk.
Over time many spy shots of the Model X have emerged, giving a glimpse of what to expect from Mr. Musk’s long kept secret. The SUV was first announced in 2012.
Gull-Winged Doors
The gull-winged doors featured on the Model X are possibly the first time ever to be featured on an SUV. The sky-ward opening doors allow for greater accessibility inside the vehicle. Due to the fact that the doors open up instead of out, it is possibly to access the rear seats when the SUV is parked in a tight spot and has little side-clearance. Gull-wing doors also allow for greater visibility over the driver’s shoulder.
The Spoiler
Apart from many practical implications of the feature on the boot of the SUV, a spoiler on the rear end of the SUV definitely increases its appeal. A spoiler will also help decrease drag and effectively use downwards force on the vehicle applied as the Model X is in motion.
The aerodynamic feature will help the Model X retain its long mile range. According to some experts, the rear spoiler is an interactive feature and is retracted into the body of the car when not needed. Addition of the spoiler will greatly increase drive time and help improve battery efficiency.
Credit for the picture goes to “AnxietyRanger,” member of Tesla Motors forum.
Sleek Low Profile
A highly unusual feature of the Model X to be known of so far, is the incredibly low profile the SUV has. Most SUV’s are noted to be have greater ground-clearance as the vehicle is meant to be driven on rough terrain and negotiate uneven ground. The Tesla Model X is seen to sport a rather low profile, giving it a sleek and sporty look.
The Model X is reported to be about 10% heavier than the Model S as the SUV is noted to have more room. However, a heavier vehicle would automatically lead to low range. The Model X is expected to house a bigger battery panel to support its large body frame.
Autopilot
Tesla enthusiasts never seem to rest when it comes to exploring possibilities on famed electric vehicle maker, in a video uploaded by Yann Kerherve on YouTube, Mr. Kerherve notes that he “spotted the new Tesla X on 280.”
It is clearly noted that the SUV corrects its trajectory whenever the driver tries to steer it off the road.
Complete specifications of the Model X will only be known once the SUV nears its launch, later this year.
The Palo Alto, California-based electric car maker is reported to have already secured 20,000 per-orders for the SUV. Industry experts speculate the SUV to be priced at around $70,000.
Tesla stock is noted to be enjoying an upwards trajectory, as the stock closed at $268.26 per share on June 30, with a surge of more than two percent. Moreover, the upwards trend is seen to have had a spill-on effect as pre-market trading session show robust growth, share price is noted to be $271.69 as at 8:52 AM EDT.
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