Model X - Elon Musk says new SUV model due in 2013

[AnOutsider]

Surprised I didn't see this anywhere:

http://green.autoblog.com/2010/04/28/report-teslas-elon-musk-says-new-suv-model-due-in-2013/


Musk said that, after the Model S arrives in 2012, Tesla will introduce a crossover utility vehicle and other models starting in 2013.

The pic is of that silly EYE concept

[shark2k]

I believe that is the same as this thread: Tesla: Mercedes A-Class EV Destined for U.S (http://teslamotorsclub.com/showthread.php?t=4013)

Edit: Nevermind, just read the article. They do relate to each other though cause they mention the Mercedes stuff.

-Shark2k

[DRM]

Personally, I find the TTAC version of the article more amusing...

HERE (http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/quote-of-the-day-madness-this-is-tesla-edition/)

[AnOutsider]

Gotta love comments like these:


Vaporware – their finances are a train wreck. I’ll be surprised if the S ever ends up in the hands of customers. By the time they come to market Ford, Toyota, GM, Nissan, and Fiat will all have ICEs or pure electrics on the market, all at a lower price point. Agree with twotone – get payment up front.

[Iz]

By the time they come to market Ford, Toyota, GM, Nissan, and Fiat will all have ICEs

You think?

I recall similar comments when Roadster was under development. If I had the time I'd write a book on TM and include an entire chapter or appendix on some of the "better" comments.

[waltoninn]

Just looking at the cars, and the one featured car component, shown near the top of the main page should give to you some idea the disposition of the website. Could they be ... living in the past?

Just wondering.

[Cobos]

I of course agree that that specific comment was stupid, but I do sense a change. Especially in places like TTAC which was/is essentially a gathering point for Tesla-haters. Hardly anyone says vapourware any more and most of the critics are playing up something I think is irrelevant but it is an actual issue. Which is a contrast to how it was before the Roadster was in teh hands of customers, when most of the critics in places like TTAC was plain wrong and stupid. In many ways Tesla has already done a great deal for EVs in general and Tesla in particular.

To keep this slightly on-topic I though the idea of the IPO silence was that Tesla shouldn't be making statements about the future like Musk just did?

Cobos

[AnOutsider]

To keep this slightly on-topic I though the idea of the IPO silence was that Tesla shouldn't be making statements about the future like Musk just did?


good point there

[tdelta1000]

I think Tesla Motors will be able to deliver an SUV by that time frame because they are planning to use the Model S platform as a base for a proposed coupe and SUV and maybe a mini van. I think Tesla's future models are riding on the success of the Model S program.

[just an allusion]

The pic is of that silly EYE concept

Eww...I don't much like the look of that I'm afraid.

Apparently Tesla is in need of some creative design input.

[AnOutsider]

Tesla didn't come up with it, some student group or something did. They just slapped the Tesla badge on it.

[trevorlsciact]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9cfHGDoniU0


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9cfHGDoniU0

Very interesting, had no idea about it being called the Model X

[trevorlsciact]

It's called the Model X

[PopSmith]

Some cool/interesting tidbits from the video:

@~1:24 - Concerning Model X - "I'm hopeful we'll unveil a prototype towards the end of next year".

@~2:34 "What do batteries cost? Is it close to the $6-$700/kWh range?"
Answer (Starts @2:45): "A Tesla battery pack is substantially less than that but we can't comment on exact numbers but it's much less than that."

@~3:15 Musk mentions that while the Roadster contains slightly modified laptop cells, the Model S cells are "highly modified" and "the internals are quite different".

I know it's not official yet but "Model X", as a name, sounds rather boring and bland like most SUVs. :tongue:

[TEG]

Other (non-Tesla) "X" models:

Zap-X (based on Lotus AP-X concept):
http://www.zapworld.com/zap-x-electric-crossover-suv-sports-utility-vehicle
http://www.zapworld.com/files/images/zap-x-crossover_0.jpg

BMW Model-X:
http://www.bmwblog.com/2010/07/10/rumormill-bmw-looking-at-a-new-x-model-x-style/
http://www.bmwblog.com/wp-content/uploads/x4-front11_blog1-655x436.jpg

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jaguar_X-Type

[SByer]

Ugh. Skip the SUV and do a wagon / estate car first. Safer, more drive-able, more cargo room, would have more range, and can probably be done off the Model S platform with little modification. A wagon with 400 mile range, and we'd be able to ditch the oil burner.

[stopcrazypp]

Ugh. Skip the SUV and do a wagon / estate car first. Safer, more drive-able, more cargo room, would have more range, and can probably be done off the Model S platform with little modification. A wagon with 400 mile range, and we'd be able to ditch the oil burner.
The thing is, an SUV is likely to sell much better. That's why even Audi (which was pushing station wagons for very long) gave in and joined the SUV market. The only negative of the SUV is probably aero (weight also, but EVs are not as affected by weight), but there are probably ways to tweak it to be better.

[flabby]

So do we need a new model x section now?

[jasonhi]

The thing is, an SUV is likely to sell much better. That's why even Audi (which was pushing station wagons for very long) gave in and joined the SUV market. The only negative of the SUV is probably aero (weight also, but EVs are not as affected by weight), but there are probably ways to tweak it to be better.

I'm curious how a Tesla SUV will compare to the RAV4 that Tesla is helping build. Will Tesla build a bigger SUV? Or just longer range? If the Toyota is only 100 miles, then I'm sure the differentiator will be that the Tesla will likely have a 200+ mile option.

I'm looking forward to the day when we have a handful of interesting EVs to choose from to meet different peoples needs/desires. I'd love to be debating between a Model S, Model X, Toyota RAV4 etc for a people/stuff hauler to go with my Roadster in 2015 or so.

[T@oo]

While I think "Model X" will be more like a crossover (think Audi A6 Allroad), find this funny:

4:09 Q: Does this put competitive pressure on Tesla?
4:12 A: No.....(making absolutely confident face)

[trevorlsciact]

While I think "Model X" will be more like a crossover (think Audi A6 Allroad), find this funny:

4:09 Q: Does this put competitive pressure on Tesla?
4:12 A: No.....(making absolutely confident face)

Yeah, that was quintessential Musk. Gotta love it!

[tdelta1000]

The Audi All-Road went away and became the Q7 over time. If I recall, the IPO roadshow video showed an SUV truck type vehicle. Elon Musk is being coy with the real details of the SUV.

[mpt]

Ugh. Skip the SUV and do a wagon / estate car first. Safer, more drive-able, more cargo room, would have more range, and can probably be done off the Model S platform with little modification. A wagon with 400 mile range, and we'd be able to ditch the oil burner.

+1

But I guess the market will decide.

[shark2k]

Ugh. Skip the SUV and do a wagon / estate car first. Safer, more drive-able, more cargo room, would have more range, and can probably be done off the Model S platform with little modification. A wagon with 400 mile range, and we'd be able to ditch the oil burner.

If I'm not mistaking in the IPO presentation (and maybe even before that) Tesla (might have been Musk) mentioned that the Model S is using a skate platform which would allow them to essentially put on different shells to get different types of cars. If that is the case whether they go with a SUV or wagon/estate car shouldn't really matter in terms of modifying. Also, a reasonable size SUV with 400 mile range and we'd be able to ditch the oil burner also, just saying.

-Shark2k

[Roger_Smith]

Also, a reasonable size SUV with 400 mile range and we'd be able to ditch the oil burner also, just saying.

-Shark2k

Agreed... Id be able to ditch my Ford Expedition.

[Cobos]

Yeah, that was quintessential Musk. Gotta love it!

I do agree that is quintessential Musk but at the same time I think he has a good point. The only reason that people might cross-shop a Leaf and Model S is if you must have an EV. As soon as you get more EVs it will be a much more apparant that they are very different markets. I've said before that thus far no premium/high end brand has shown anything to compete with the Model S, assuming you want an EV. The Fisker Karma is as close as you get now, and probably until the Model S comes out.

Cobos

[ChrisC]

More about the Model X in this thread:

http://www.teslamotorsclub.com/showthread.php/4658-Model-X

[trevorlsciact]

I do agree that is quintessential Musk but at the same time I think he has a good point. The only reason that people might cross-shop a Leaf and Model S is if you must have an EV. As soon as you get more EVs it will be a much more apparant that they are very different markets. I've said before that thus far no premium/high end brand has shown anything to compete with the Model S, assuming you want an EV. The Fisker Karma is as close as you get now, and probably until the Model S comes out.

Cobos

I completely agree, but his confidence teetering on arrogance is still amusing. That is what it takes to be a good leader and CEO, however. That is why I am glad he ended up running Tesla. More to the point, I think what Tesla has to watch out for is Infinity, since Nissan has stated they will release an EV under that brand as well.

[doug]

More about the Model X in this thread:

http://www.teslamotorsclub.com/showthread.php/4658-Model-X
merged

[Seal]

Tesla plans Model X in 2014

Just the Facts:

* Tesla confirmed it is planning to introduce a battery-powered crossover in 2014.

* Called the Model X, Tesla CEO Elon Musk says the company hopes to have a prototype of the crossover by the end of next year.

FREMONT, California — Tesla Motors CEO Elon Musk confirmed the electric-vehicle maker is planning to introduce a battery-powered crossover, the Model X, in 2014, about two years after the mid-2012 launch of its midsize Model S sedan.

In an interview with Greentech Media at the formal opening of his company's production facility here in a former Toyota-General Motors plant, Musk said, "I'm hopeful we will unveil a prototype [of the Model X] toward the end of next year. When it will go into production is harder to predict because we want to make sure the Model S production line is operating smoothly before we introduce another variant. But certainly within two.... In less than two years when we start Model S production, we will have the Model X."

in: http://autonews.gasgoo.com/global-news/tesla-plans-model-x-in-2014-101108.shtml

[PeterW]

http://www.egmcartech.com/2011/02/07/report-tesla-model-x-suv-will-be-small-but-will-offer-minivan-space/


According to Edmunds’ Green Car Advisor, the Tesla Model X SUV will be the size of typical compact SUV but will have the interior space of a full-size passenger minivan.

[AnOutsider]

http://www.egmcartech.com/2011/02/07/report-tesla-model-x-suv-will-be-small-but-will-offer-minivan-space/

Which shouldn't be hard to do with the "skateboard" platform

[PopSmith]

Which shouldn't be hard to do with the "skateboard" platform

Very true and yet another advantage for Tesla (and maybe EVs in general).

[JRP3]

Yes it should be an advantage of all EV's but Tesla is the first to implement it.

[TEG]

http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/03/report-tesla-model-s-based-crossover-coming-to-frankfurt/

[shark2k]

http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/03/report-tesla-model-s-based-crossover-coming-to-frankfurt/

Updated saying it is not coming according to a Tesla rep.

-Shark2k

[herbvdh]

If a Tesla rep said this I would read that as it is coming. I put my name on a waiting list at my Toyota dealer in NJ for a RAV4 EV I was not told how many are waiting either but that I was added to the list.

[Lloyd]

I put my name on a list for California immediatly after the partnership release and was told I was #1 for this state. We will see.......

[shark2k]

If a Tesla rep said this I would read that as it is coming. I put my name on a waiting list at my Toyota dealer in NJ for a RAV4 EV I was not told how many are waiting either but that I was added to the list.

Why would you read that as it is coming? Tesla is focusing on the Model S right now. I would think they would want to keep focus on that and not bring another vehicle into the mix right away. I'm sure they might have maybe a small group of people working on the Model X, but I don't know if they would have enough to bring to an autoshow yet. Also, just my opinion, but I think they would want people to see them being focused on the Model S, especially since I think that car will have a lot to do with their success.

Of course we can just wait and see what happens come the Frankfurt autoshow.

-Shark2k

[vfx]

Elon Musk (http://www.morningstar.com/earnings/22083159-tesla-motors-inc-q4-2010.aspx?pindex=5)


The Model X is a variance on the Model S platform. So, it a crossover SUV. It's intended to be cooler than any other SUV in its aspiration, but actually have functionality that exceeds that of a minivan. This is a tough goal to achieve, but I think we have a better shot at doing that. That's why we we're raving it. Pricing would comparable to that of the Model S, and so this is not our third-generation last production vehicle. That vehicle is still several years away. The Model X is really just a way of generating potentially twice as much volume in the premium vehicle segment offering a crossover SUV in addition to sedan, and we are looking to unveil the design prototype about at the end of this year.

[nick_083]

Speaking to Tesla folks in Chicago last week, they felt AWD will never make its way to Model S and will be a feature offered on Model X instead. Looks like the Model X is in development indeed... but then - if it's sharing the same platform how come they can offer AWD on X but not S?

[JRP3]

Maybe they think it's better suited to an SUV than a sedan. It has to add a significant cost increase.

[Jaff]

Maybe the AWD feature requires more time to design / test than TM has available before the Model S launch next year...the Model X is not due for another year past the Model S...

[AndrewBissell]

AWD was never stated to be available from launch of the model S.

[vfx]

Tesla hunting for funds for Model X, the all-electric CUV due in 2014ish Autoblog Green (http://green.autoblog.com/2011/05/06/tesla-hunting-for-funds-for-model-x/)

[Norbert]

Tesla hunting for funds for Model X, the all-electric CUV due in 2014ish Autoblog Green (http://green.autoblog.com/2011/05/06/tesla-hunting-for-funds-for-model-x/)

What this article and some similar ones don't mention, is that the Model X investment is not just meant as an additional investment for an additional model. The idea seems to be that the combination of Model S and Model X will be give a better ratio of income to cost than the Model S would by itself.

[AnOutsider]

Well bring it on. Call me a typical American, but I love me some crossover action. Comfortable and fuel efficient - even more so if electric!

[JRP3]

I guess you have a different definition of fuel efficient. Typical American :tongue:

[tdelta1000]

When will TM begin to release some official renderings of the up coming SUV/CUV? Or will it be the one from the Roadshow slides?

[Norbert]

When will TM begin to release some official renderings of the up coming SUV/CUV? Or will it be the one from the Roadshow slides?

I think it will be more SUV-ish than the one on the slides, since it is meant to be usable even as a minivan. Not sure if we can expect to see something before the official introduction end of this year.

[tdelta1000]

I recently found this statement: The Model S is designed to have an adaptable platform architecture and common electric powertrain in order to allow us to efficiently create other electric vehicles, which may include, as examples, a crossover/sport utility vehicle, van or a cabriolet. By developing our future vehicles from this common platform, we believe we can reduce their development time and, as a result, reduce the required additional capital investment.

Follow the link for the full text from Tesla Motors (http://republicans.energycommerce.house.gov/Media/file/Hearings/Energy/050511/Oconnell.pdf)

[JRod0802]

I recently found this statement: The Model S is designed to have an adaptable platform architecture and common electric powertrain in order to allow us to efficiently create other electric vehicles, which may include, as examples, a crossover/sport utility vehicle, van or a cabriolet. By developing our future vehicles from this common platform, we believe we can reduce their development time and, as a result, reduce the required additional capital investment.

Follow the link for the full text from Tesla Motors (http://republicans.energycommerce.house.gov/Media/file/Hearings/Energy/050511/Oconnell.pdf)


The following contains proprietary information that Tesla Motors, Inc. requests not be released to persons outside the Government, except for purposes of review and evaluation.

Should that link be removed, or is it now public info?

[stopcrazypp]

Should that link be removed, or is it now public info?
If you are talking specifically about the platform statement, that is pretty much public info now. It was already mentioned in a slide in their investor Road Show.

[Norbert]

Tesla's own recent blog entry also has a link to the web page where this text is. So its probably public at this point in time. At least more or less.

[trevorlsciact]

Well, it is definitely public if it is on a public webpage...

[Norbert]

Seems this is the general Model X thread now. Some new info:

Tesla to Sell Electric Model X in 2013, Make as Many as 15,000 (http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-06-02/tesla-to-sell-electric-model-x-in-2013-make-as-many-as-15-000.html)


Production of the model at Tesla’s plant in Fremont, California, may be between 10,000 and 15,000 units a year, the company said.


“We anticipate that we will make the Model X available with three range variants, with pricing of each variant similar to those of the Model S,” the company said.

[Lloyd]

Alpha prototype of Model X to be revealed "mid December" (http://venturebeat.com/2011/08/03/tesla-model-x-december/)

[AnOutsider]

Alpha prototype of Model X to be revealed "mid December" (http://venturebeat.com/2011/08/03/tesla-model-x-december/)

Just wondering... aren't their naming conventions Prototype -> Alpha -> Beta -> RC#? If so, wouldn't an "alpha prototype" be... I dunno, maybe redundant?

In the article it says "alpha model", though their quote from Musk says:


“The plan is to have an unveiling of the Model X prototype in the mid-December time frame,” Musk said. “So far it’s looking good, I don’t think anything will cause an issue.”

Leading me to believe we're just going to see the prototype (like what's on tour right now for the Model S). I'd be REALLY surprised if they were far enough along to actually have Alphas.

[Lloyd]

They call it both an Alpha, and a prototype in the article. The reader will have to be the judge until we get additional infomation!

[AnOutsider]

They call it both an Alpha, and a prototype in the article. The reader will have to be the judge until we get additional infomation!

This reader is gonna stick with logic, and the words of the CEO and say "Prototype". I'd love to be wrong though.

[Norbert]

"Design prototype" comes before "alpha prototype".

[NigelM]

Morgan Stanley's Analysts wrote on 9/21:


We expect a prototype of the Model X Crossover SUV by year-end 2011...

[VolkerP]

If only I'd work for Morgan Stanley. I would get a decent earning for writing stuff up from companies' press releases...
The Model X prototype unveiling was mentioned by Elon in the very same TM Q2 2011 financial results Q&A (http://seekingalpha.com/article/284453-tesla-motors-ceo-discusses-q2-2011-results-earnings-call-transcript) where he announced the Oct 1 event, too.

Go to the Q&A session:

Elon Musk The plan is to have an unveiling of the Model X prototype by the end of this year or so, probably in the mid-December timeframe...

[AnOutsider]

If only I'd work for Morgan Stanley. I would get a decent earning for writing stuff up from companies' press releases...
The Model X prototype unveiling was mentioned by Elon in the very same TM Q2 2011 financial results Q&A (http://seekingalpha.com/article/284453-tesla-motors-ceo-discusses-q2-2011-results-earnings-call-transcript) where he announced the Oct 1 event, too.

Go to the Q&A session:

I think the implication was that MS may have had another, more recent discussion that reaffirmed plans.

[NigelM]

I think the implication was that MS may have had another, more recent discussion that reaffirmed plans.

Exactly.

P.S. If there's a prototype coming out later this year, then we'll need a Model X sub-forum.....

[AnOutsider]

Exactly.

P.S. If there's a prototype coming out later this year, then we'll need a Model X sub-forum.....

Yup, been suggested, and confirmed as "coming". I guess when we have more on it, it'll make more sense.

[Kipernicus]

I'm wondering how many Model S sales will be impacted by the Model X reveal, especially if they come out with pricing and range info in the next few months.

For me, I only need 1 vehicle for a long road trip. 4wd would be nice for going skiing, but a higher CdA (and probably more weight) would mean much higher cost to get equivalent range to Model S. The cargo capacity of Model S is pretty good already, but you know what they say about "stuff" and available space.

If I decide that Model X will be the roadtrip vehicle, I'll go for the 160 mile pack in the Model S. If I splurge for 300mi in Model S, then I may not get Model X at all and wait for bluestar.

[AnOutsider]

Personally, I'm hoping they knock the design out the box on this one. If there's AWD and range options are similar to S, then the biggest decision factor will be design.

[VolkerP]

I want my Model S so bad because it will be a revolutionary car. Never would spend so much on an ICE, though. As my kids grow up, I'd like to switch to Model X with seating for 7 adults. And I like the tow hitch which will not be available with Model S. So here is stretching my finances for the next 10 years to come.

[JRP3]

So here is stretching my finances for the next 10 years to come.If it's any consolation an EV should be a better value proposition in the long run considering the lower operating costs and mechanical simplicity. EV's allow cars to become more like boats, planes, and houses instead of disposables that only last 10 years on average. Plus they can actually get better over time with upgraded replacement battery packs. That's one of the reasons I don't think properly designed and constructed EV's need to be as cheap as ICE vehicles and, unlike some people, I think EV's will have high resale value. It's certainly been the case with the RAV4EV.

[AnOutsider]

I think EV's will have high resale value. It's certainly been the case with the RAV4EV.

To be fair, couldn't that mainly be because they're pretty rare, you can't buy one from a dealer, and it serves a niche community that sees the value? Your average joe isn't scouring the internet trying to find one.

[JRP3]

True, but one of the reasons the RAV4EV has good resale value is that after 10 years and over 100K miles there is nothing wrong with them. If they had major issues the prices would be far lower. As battery technology and pricing continues to improve even an EV with a reduced range pack will have a high resale value.

[AnOutsider]

True, less moving parts and all. Ultimately though, it will depend on build quality too. I'd expect the Leaf to hold up better over time than say, Coda (and no, no facts or references to prove it, but the company just comes across cheap and "dinky" to me)

[Cobos]

Though the Model X or the new RAV4EV might finally kill the resale price of the old RAV4EV. Even though there's nothing wrong with them the design is dated, the interior looks like it's been used for 10 years etc etc.

Actually we are seeing it now here in Norway. The new MiEV has just been slashed about $5000 in price this year. That means those that bought earlier this year got a decent car but due to the agressive pricing of the Leaf their resale value just took a nosedive.

The Roadster is a small scale collectors item or so Tesla hopes anyway. Model S P4XXX will be a standard Model S that there are plenty of both new and old. Model S V2 in say 5 years might be so much better that resale value for V1 will drop. That doesn't mean Model S V1 will be a bad car at all, but I would not count on the resale value beeing even remotely as good as the old RAV4EV.

We are at the beginning of a whole new type of cars, and a rather rapid development is natural. After all the new Ford Explorer is just a small improvement over last years model, but I'm guessing it's a lot better than the very first "small" SUV from Ford?

Cobos

[JRP3]

As Outsider said it will all come down to build quality. If the rest of the vehicle is built to take advantage of the potential longer life of the electric motor and components then cars can be long term investments. If the idea of planned obsolescence is continued then nothing will change, though I argue that entire concept is not sustainable in the long run. Our disposable society is a dead end. Worth watching if you're interested in the topic Lightbulb Conspiracy (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=endUcoHsCVY)

[AnOutsider]

The Roadster is a small scale collectors item or so Tesla hopes anyway.

To go slightly more OT: if Tesla reveals a new and improved Roadster 3.0, I think the originals will be seen as quaint, but not really valuable except to a few.

[Mycroft]

Elon tweet:
"The Model X unveiling will be webcast live on TeslaMotors.com (http://teslamotors.com) at 8pm on Feb 9th. Most cars are pretty blah. This is not."

Cool or what?!!

I feel sorry for the east coasters who have to work early in the morning.

[Doug_G]

Elon tweet:

Cool or what?!!

I feel sorry for the east coasters who have to work early in the morning.

That would be 5 pm here.

[NigelM]

That would be 5 pm here.

:confused: 11.00pm.....no?

[Doug_G]

:confused: 11.00pm.....no?

Right. Duh. :redface: :rolleyes: 11 pm. In that case... the night is young!

[Adm]

Mmm. 5 a.m. CET, just 30 min before I get up anyway... do able :frown:

[AndrewBissell]

Right. Duh. :redface: :rolleyes: 11 pm. In that case... the night is young!

4 am next morning here. Swithering on getting up really early!

[bonnie1194]

4 am next morning here. Swithering on getting up really early!

I might be in your time zone then (waiting to see what happens with a meeting) .. and will definitely get up at that time to watch the unveil. But I'm hoping to be at the event in person. -fingers crossed-

[Larry Chanin]

Tesla Model X teased ahead of February unveiling (http://www.worldcarfans.com/112013040449/tesla-model-x-teased-ahead-of-february-unveiling#ixzz1kxqNKpPi)

4009

Larry

[PeterW]

SUVs the top choice for Kiwi car buyers - Motoring - NZ Herald News (http://www.nzherald.co.nz/motoring/news/article.cfm?c_id=9&objectid=10782453)


SUVs now dominate the market, enjoying a 29 per cent share after 18,684 models were sold in 2011.

A New Zealand article, but if this is right


"What we're seeing is not unique to New Zealand. Many overseas markets are experiencing similar changes. Lifestyle demands and the perceived advantages of SUVs means that they'll continue to dominate markets for the foreseeable future."

it suggests Tesla is on the right track developing the Model X next after the S

[medved]

Any actual photo of the X haven't leaked out yet? So many people involved. How come there's no photo of the X?

[AnOutsider]

Any actual photo of the X haven't leaked out yet? So many people involved. How come there's no photo of the X?

Haven't seen leaks like that from tesla since elon did his "leak probes". It's only a week and a day away, we might end up seeing it on the site just before the event though.

[Mycroft]

Yeah, Tesla has been pretty good at keeping the wraps on stuff. The largest leak is probably Elon himself.

This isn't surprising given the huge dedication of the employees and their very strong desire to continue their employ. Yet another reason that I'm happy with my TSLA investment. :smile:

[Teslawisher]

Haven't seen leaks like that from tesla since elon did his "leak probes". It's only a week and a day away, we might end up seeing it on the site just before the event though.

Just curious. I hadn't ever heard of the leak probes. What did he do?

[ElSupreme]

Just curious. I hadn't ever heard of the leak probes. What did he do?

Apparently he sent out a memo to a large number of people with each one slightly different. Hopefully to see who’s version was leaked. But someone else replied the whole company and copied his version so the plan was thwarted.

I don’t remember where I read this.

[Mycroft]

From Wikipedia:


In October 2008, after Musk had confirmed an earlier report that Tesla Motors had only $9 million in cash, he was reported to have hired an outside IT contractor to go through all of the company's email and instant messages, then had a forensic investigator lift fingerprints from a printout discarded near a copier used to leak the email. The email implicated employee Peng Zhou as the source of the company's reported financial status. Zhou had sought to frame other employees at Tesla by claiming in his leaked emails that he was a four-year employee. Musk offered Zhou the option of apologizing to the company and resigning, which he did, rather than face prosecution.

After Zhou separated from Tesla Motors, Musk was reported attempting to catch employees who leaked Tesla Motors corporate secrets, without the prior knowledge of other Tesla Motors executives, by sending each employee a slightly altered version of a memo which Musk expected would be leaked to the media. The plan backfired when general counsel Craig Harding forwarded his own personalized copy of the memo along with a new, stricter nondisclosure agreement mentioned in the memo to other employees, nullifying the plan

[stopcrazypp]

Apparently he sent out a memo to a large number of people with each one slightly different. Hopefully to see who’s version was leaked. But someone else replied the whole company and copied his version so the plan was thwarted.

I don’t remember where I read this.

It was originally reported by the now defunct "Valleywag" (they got absorbed back into normal Gawker):
http://gawker.com/5164035/?tag=television

Same news on autobloggreen:
http://green.autoblog.com/2009/03/05/not-at-all-quiet-on-the-western-front-is-elon-musk-questioning/

I think the new stricter non-disclosure-agreement mentioned in the article had a bigger part to do with it, than the short "leak probe" Elon tried to do (but failed).

Plus, back then most of the leaked news that was reported was negative news (as expected of Valleywag, which deals with silicon valley gossip. I guess that responsibility fell to Jalopnik, which still calls everything Tesla plans to make as "vaporware". Gizmodo articles tend to focus more on the tech and is more positive). Now that Tesla is a public company, it's even more important to control leaks (esp. ones that may be distorted in order to provide gossip). If Valleywag still existed and still had a long term inside tipster in Tesla, they could deal a lot of damage to Tesla.

[AnOutsider]

Tesla aside, I never liked Valleywag (or Gawker). Glad to see at least one piece of the puzzle is gone (or consolidated).

[zack]

never mind.

[ckessel]

The media coverage of the model X is quite extensive. It's coming up on my Google News feed with something like 150 related articles. Reactions aside, just the fact it's getting that big a splash seems like a good thing for Tesla's name recognition.