Model X Unveil When??

[NigelM]

Unveiling in November?

I guess this could also have been under news but....

Tesla-Model-X-set-for-2011-Los-Angeles-Auto-Show (http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1066917_tesla-model-x-set-for-2011-los-angeles-auto-show-debut)


It may have taken Tesla four years to bring out its first new model since the launch of the Roadster back in 2008 but the same won’t occur for the electric car startup’s third model, the long-rumored Model X crossover due out in time for the 2013 or 2014 model year.

Tesla’s current focus is on the Model S electric sedan due next year, which has been confirmed to include four different trim levels including a high-performance, BMW M5-rivaling sports variant.

However, work is well underway on a crossover to share the Model S’ aluminum chassis and running gear and we should see the first fruits of that labor as early as this November’s 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show.

Also specs that are "known"....

Tesla-Model-X-what-we-know-before-nov-reveal (http://www.greencarreports.com/news/1066874_2013-tesla-model-x-crossover-what-we-know-before-nov-reveal)


We know for sure that ...

The 2012 Tesla Model X crossover will be unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show in mid-November
It will carry "seven full-size adults" in three full rows of seating, unlike the optional pair of child-sized jump seats in the rear of the Model S
It will have the same level of luxury as the Model S
Tesla hopes to sell up to 15,000 Model X vehicles a year, as Musk said in an August earnings call
The Model X will "incorporate the functionality of a minivan with the consumer appeal of a sports-utility vehicle," according to Tesla's SEC filings
In June, Tesla raised an additional $210 million to fund Model X development and related projects


And suspect....



We suspect that ...

The Model X will cost as much as, or more than, the Model S
Its platform will have a longer wheelbase than the Model S sedan
The Tesla crossover will offer all-wheel drive, though we can't say whether it will be standard or optional

[bonnie1194]

I absolutely love the Model S - but I'm thinking that the Model X and a Roadster in my garage might be a better combination. I'll probably fly down in November to see the Model X in person (assuming it will be there).

What a good dilemma to have.

[AnOutsider]

firstly... wow! Model X finally got its own forum. I thought it was going to wait until the unveiling.

On to the what we "know"'s:


The 2012 Tesla Model X crossover will be unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show in mid-November
Earlier than announced, but makes sense.


It will carry "seven full-size adults" in three full rows of seating, unlike the optional pair of child-sized jump seats in the rear of the Model S
Cool, but I wonder how or if that will affect trunk space. My current crossover has 2 rows and really nice trunk space. I suspect if a third row were added (and it were comfortable) the trunk would shrink to the space behind the last row of seats in a minivan. Unless of course they extend the body back as well.


It will have the same level of luxury as the Model S
Haven't seen the final S interior and was unimpressed with the Beta, so no real feelings here.


Tesla hopes to sell up to 15,000 Model X vehicles a year, as Musk said in an August earnings call
If it's launching after the S is already in production and established, they may be able to sell more. There might be some initial woes, but Americans love their big cars. If this thing is as no-compromising as the S, I can see it outselling it (look at Audi and Porsche crossovers outselling their cars).


The Model X will "incorporate the functionality of a minivan with the consumer appeal of a sports-utility vehicle," according to Tesla's SEC filings
Let's hope so, though I'm not a huge fan of minivans in any case (interior or exterior)


In June, Tesla raised an additional $210 million to fund Model X development and related projects
Related eh?

On to the suspicions:


The Model X will cost as much as, or more than, the Model S
Figured. Though I remember an article somewhere that said less, which just can't be.


Its platform will have a longer wheelbase than the Model S sedan
Would sort of answer my trunk concern above.


The Tesla crossover will offer all-wheel drive, though we can't say whether it will be standard or optional

Which might then trickle down to the S :)



I absolutely love the Model S - but I'm thinking that the Model X and a Roadster in my garage might be a better combination. I'll probably fly down in November to see the Model X in person (assuming it will be there).

I wonder. If you took out the back 2 rows, could you then transport a roadster in the X? :)

[AnOutsider]

Also, I wonder if they'll start preorders after it's unveiled? Anyone here (aside from Bonnie) jumping on one if they do?

[VolkerP]

two thoughts on Model X
1 my kids will outgrow that 4'11" jump seats in 4 to 5 years.
2 Given the charging solution for Model S, it's probably not a good idea to road trip Europe in 2013 with it. The Tesla provided DC fast charging infrastructure won't be rolled out that soon.

Thus, I consider to go with Model X either in 2016 or right from its start.

[bonnie1194]

Also, I wonder if they'll start preorders after it's unveiled? Anyone here (aside from Bonnie) jumping on one if they do?

To be clear, I'm not sure what I'm going to do. I love love love the Model S. NOT getting it will be difficult. I'm hoping I'm equally excited by both the design and features of the Model X. That will make it easier.

For all the jokes about the cats, I do have two large labs, I head into the mountains for skiing in the winter, have lots of visitors requiring pickup @ the airport with bags, and live in the country (all requiring cargo room, which Model S clearly has). The all wheel drive is something I'd like.

[vfx]

Talked to the chief engineer about the Model X. He was excited as a schoolgirl when he talked about how the Model X would have features that no other vehicle has every had.

It seemed he was talking about the electric 4 wheel drive and how that will make it handle/preform. I can't stress enough how he said it will have things that have never been in a vehicle.

Also talked to Franz about it. He vasilated back and forth between calling it SUV and minvan in conversation. When I tried to pin him down he smiled and said it's both and neither.

[NigelM]

That would make it an AWD/MPV/SUV/EV...

[dadaleus]

Anyone here (aside from Bonnie) jumping on one if they do?

Yes. We've been looking forward to the X to replace our Highlander Hybrid. This will be my wife's primary car for the kids carpool and for our family trips.

[Kipernicus]

Cool, but I wonder how or if that will affect trunk space. My current crossover has 2 rows and really nice trunk space. I suspect if a third row were added (and it were comfortable) the trunk would shrink to the space behind the last row of seats in a minivan. Unless of course they extend the body back as well.


Don't forget about the Frunk for storage.

I, like dadaleus, will be looking to the model X to replace my wife's car, and will splurge for the largest battery to make it truly roadtrip capable (I'm going with the 160 in the model S for financial reasons). More likely, however, is that she'll end up driving the S more and I'll take the X for myself!

[Citizen-T]

The Model S is for me. Hoping my wife will fall in love with it so we can one day replace her 2011 Ford Edge (which she also loves) with a Model X.

[doug]

Tesla-Model-X-what-we-know-before-nov-reveal (http://www.greencarreports.com/news/1066874_2013-tesla-model-x-crossover-what-we-know-before-nov-reveal)

That article got updated:

We know for sure that ...

The 2013 or 2014 Tesla (http://www.greencarreports.com/make/tesla,new) Model X crossover will be unveiled in the first quarter of 2012
Tesla will show the Model X to an invited audience before the end of this year

So the LA Auto Show was a false alarm and they're just going to show it to a select few.

We suspect that ...

Its platform will have a longer wheelbase than the Model S sedan

If they nixed the frunk, Tesla could make a pretty cool micro-bus with the same wheelbase as the Model S.

[AnOutsider]

I'm guessing it will be Roadster owners and S Sig holders. Ah well, I'm sure the pics will leak out.

[Nvbob]

Driverless? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bp9KBrH8H04

[felixtb]

I have been waiting for the X since I got the roadster. I, like Bonnie, have dogs and frequent trips to the mountains, and road trips across EU. I have already told my local tesla rep. to get me all the info as soon as available. I want! need to replace my aging diesel Q7.

[WhiteKnight]

Its platform will have a longer wheelbase than the Model S sedan

With a longer wheelbase comes the space to have a larger battery. How about a 400 mile pack. (I think they're losing some of the economies of scale from the Model S if they do this).

The main thing that would hold me back from replacing my wife's minivan with the Model X is that at highway speeds that 300 mil pack becomes a 210 mile pack. That means 2 or 3 stops on the way to Disney World instead of 1. With a bigger pack we could just stop once. Not sure if I-75 will be any where close to the top of Tesla's list for charging stations.

[Adm]

It would be a shame if Tesla would not make use of newer battery technology. They could chose to make the battery lighter or pack more kWh for more range.

[WhiteKnight]

The article that folks were linking to says:


[UPDATE: Tesla Motors says it will officially unveil the Model X crossover in the first quarter of 2012 2013, and show off its new southern California design studio at the same time. CEO Elon Musk has been quoted as saying the company will show it to a select audience--presumably owners and strong prospects--before the end of the year. ]

Now that they are a public company it would be problematic to show something material like a brand new model (when you only have one active model) to a select group of people and not to the whole world - could be considered a violation of Reg FD. Hopefully they'll show the whole world in November.

[Mycroft]

Oh yeah. Reporters will be present.

[bonnie1194]

The article that folks were linking to says:



Now that they are a public company it would be problematic to show something material like a brand new model (when you only have one active model) to a select group of people and not to the whole world - could be considered a violation of Reg FD. Hopefully they'll show the whole world in November.

I think the problem would be if they didn't announce and only told (or showed) a select group of people - but certainly if they announce, then they have disclosed publicly - and as long as it is not additional material information, they can show prototypes but are not obligated to show those prototypes to everyone. To the best of my knowledge, there is no regulation that says it must be 'all or nothing' - only that material facts cannot be selectively shared. Or am I missing something here?

[AnOutsider]

I think you've got it Bonnie

[Citizen-T]

You're right. They just need to release the information about the prototype to everyone before or at the same time they show it to the select few.

[WhiteKnight]

What they did with the Model S was perfectly copacetic. They showed a select group of people (even if that group was large - measured in the thousands) and then they released a large amount of information on their website. And with everyone blogging et cetera it was like you were there.

What they cannot do (in my non-legal opinion) is show the prototype to a group of people and then release very limited information to the public via their website. There is probably very little chance they would do that. I am sure they will do it 100% right, 100% of the time.

[NigelM]

WhiteKnight is correct - as a public company you can give information to a limited group such as analysts or journalists (as they both pretty much have legal restrictions on their ability to trade). What you can't do is give information to a select group (selected owners for example) and not publicize it as you effectively make them "insiders". For that reason alone it made sense to hold the Model S event over a Saturday/Sunday, but it was also prudent to allow the press in on the Friday already.

[AnOutsider]

Also, I wonder if they'll start preorders after it's unveiled? Anyone here (aside from Bonnie) jumping on one if they do?

I was digging back through the model s forum and I noticed that people were putting deposits down the day it was unveiled back in 2009. If tesla follows suit, I guess preorders will open up around the unveiling.

As an aside, it's cool looking back at all the discussions and seeing what did or didn't pan out. I suspect we'll be doing the same with Model X, even though it should have a much shorter gestation period.

[Kevin Harney]

I was digging back through the model s forum and I noticed that people were putting deposits down the day it was unveiled back in 2009. If tesla follows suit, I guess preorders will open up around the unveiling.

As an aside, it's cool looking back at all the discussions and seeing what did or didn't pan out. I suspect we'll be doing the same with Model X, even though it should have a much shorter gestation period. That does pose an interesting question. What was the gestation on the Roadster ... then the Model S... and how much of that will be shortened again for the X especially since the platform is done for the X.

[AnOutsider]

That does pose an interesting question. What was the gestation on the Roadster ... then the Model S... and how much of that will be shortened again for the X especially since the platform is done for the X.

I'll let those, like doug, who have been in the game much longer answer that definitively... But from the time of the reveal of the S (March-ish 2009) til release, will be about 3 years (though it was talked about as far back as 2006 from what I can see). Roadster was talked about a lot as well, but I THINK 2005-2008 would be the actual time spent on it aside from setbacks.

Like I said, one of the vets can probably give a much stronger indicator. Tesla is looking to unveil in late 2011 and launch in 2013 (mid? late?), so that would be about 1.5-2 years from unveil to launch.

[Lloyd]

I asked my customer service service rep, when we would be able to place a deposit on the model x. i was told, "it has not been announced yet. Keep an eye on the Tesla Motors site for deposit information when the Model X is announced" So it seems like we will be able to place a deposit on this vehicle once it has been shown, possibly in November!

[TEG]

...What was the gestation on the Roadster ... ?

Tesla started up in 2003, and spent about 3 years, with a very small team, getting some prototypes vehicles ready.
You can find some Roadster history on Wikipedia:
Tesla Roadster - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tesla_Roadster#History)

...The car was officially unveiled to the public on July 19, 2006, in Santa Monica, California (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Monica,_California), at a 350-person invitation-only event held in Barker Hangar at Santa Monica Airport (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Monica_Airport)...
People immediately started putting deposits down as there were two seemingly finished cars on display giving rides, but they were really engineering prototypes and getting into proper production would take a while from then.
If you don't count more prototypes, and special cars for company founders, I think the first real production Roadsters (first "Signature 100") didn't show up to customers for about 2 years.

I wouldn't use the Roadster history as much a Roadmap to predict the future though. It was built with assemblies from different global suppliers. Tesla had to invent a lot of new technology to make it work. The technology was being proven as they went. The company was still getting itself established. There was a bunch of learning curve. Hopefully for future models the cycle will be shorter and more predictable...

[Kevin Harney]

Tesla started up in 2003, and spent about 3 years, with a very small team, getting some prototypes vehicles ready.
You can find some Roadster history on Wikipedia:
Tesla Roadster - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tesla_Roadster#History)

People immediately started putting deposits down as there were two seemingly finished cars on display giving rides, but they were really engineering prototypes and getting into proper production would take a while from then.
If you don't count more prototypes, and special cars for company founders, I think the first real production Roadsters (first "Signature 100") didn't show up to customers for about 2 years.

I wouldn't use the Roadster history as much a Roadmap to predict the future though. It was built with assemblies from different global suppliers. Tesla had to invent a lot of new technology to make it work. The technology was being proven as they went. The company was still getting itself established. There was a bunch of learning curve. Hopefully for future models the cycle will be shorter and more predictable...
Well my question was posed in order to see the magnitude of how fast they are speeding up the process now that they have a good bit of the experimentation. That is why I was curious about Roadster to S and then S to X should be even faster. Especially since S and X are really very similar compared to Roadster and S.

[TEG]

Well the new thing is high volume. Roadster success was achieved with 10s of units per month. Now they need thousands. Even though they are bigger, & more mature, they have new obstacles & hurdles.

[Iz]

...The car was officially unveiled to the public on July 19, 2006, in Santa Monica, California (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Monica,_California), at a 350-person invitation-only event held in Barker Hangar at Santa Monica Airport (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Monica_Airport)...
Unofficially, it appeared in Who Killed The Electric Car? a few weeks earlier. This is how many of us found the Tesla and TMC web-sites.

[TEG]

Unofficially, it appeared in Who Killed The Electric Car? a few weeks earlier. This is how many of us found the Tesla and TMC web-sites.
Yeah, there was a mysterious segment at the end showing Mule2 driving on Tesla Road...
http://www.imcdb.org/i065751.jpg
Sort of an enigmatic parting shot... In hindsight, a nod to the new movie that eventually came about.

[JRod0802]

...Tesla is looking to unveil in late 2011 and launch in 2013 (mid? late?)...

I don't have a link for you, but I remember hearing that the Model X will come out near the end of 2013. Did anyone read / see this?

[TEG]

About a year ago they seemed to be saying 2014:
Report: Tesla Model X Electric SUV Coming In 2014 (http://www.greencarreports.com/news/1051175_report-tesla-model-x-electric-suv-coming-in-2014)

...The information was revealed by Tesla CEO Elon Musk who also stated that a prototype version of the Model X could be revealed by the end of {2011} before production starts sometime in 2014...

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

...intends to sell Model X, derived from its Model S sedan due next year, by 2013’s fourth quarter, Palo Alto, California-based Tesla said today in a regulatory filing...
(but that says "intends to sell" which is different from "production" and/or "delivery"...)

[AnOutsider]

I don't have a link for you, but I remember hearing that the Model X will come out near the end of 2013. Did anyone read / see this?

Yeah, that's why I had it sort of open-ended. I forget where as well, but the vibe I've been getting is end of 2013 or early 2014. So safe to say sometime that winter if things go to plan. That's really not that far off from the S release. As I said elsewhere, they should be riding the waves of the S well into Q1 2013 since that'll be around the time that the current reservations get fully delivered.

From there they MAY do some advertising, but I suspect with the cars out on the road the attention may come virally. By the time it slows down (maybe summer 2013) the X would be on the way in about 6 months, starting the interest machine rolling again.

[AnOutsider]

Had some free time in between engagements yesterday, so I swung by Tesla NYC (smaaaall store!). Talked with a cool guy, Paul, and we chatted about delivery, service etc. But then he mentioned something about there being some investment banker thing at that store in December. Got me wondering if that will be the "exclusive" Model X unveiling event.

As others have heard though, Paul said he wasn't told much more than that as he works too close with customers.

Funny aside, I thought all the staff on-hand at the October factory event were the local guys. Turns out one of the girls there in the office was in the back seat of the S when it rolled on stage. Nice of Tesla to spread the love around and not make the non-CA employees feel like outcasts :smile:

[Robert.Boston]

he mentioned something about there being some investment banker thing at that store in December. Got me wondering if that will be the "exclusive" Model X unveiling event.
Maybe, but likely not. Tesla's been good about letting appropriate groups use their stores for cocktail receptions; a renewable energy group I have ties to in DC had a great reception there. Good community building and free PR.

[AnOutsider]

Maybe, but likely not. Tesla's been good about letting appropriate groups use their stores for cocktail receptions; a renewable energy group I have ties to in DC had a great reception there. Good community building and free PR.

Understood, but he made it clear it was an event for the initial investors in TM

[Larry Chanin]

Funny aside, I thought all the staff on-hand at the October factory event were the local guys. Turns out one of the girls there in the office was in the back seat of the S when it rolled on stage. Nice of Tesla to spread the love around and not make the non-CA employees feel like outcasts :smile:

Hi,

Our escorts on the factory tour were all from the European group. They were very enthusiastic because the Fremont event was the first opportunity that the European contingent had to meet their North American counterparts.

Larry

[Mycroft]

Yeah, Tesla got a two-fer out of it. They had lots of employees on hand to help take care of the mass of guests AND they got to train up and familiarize their new army of reps with the new cars.

[WhiteKnight]

Autoblog (http://green.autoblog.com/2011/10/03/tesla-to-unveil-model-x-crossover-ahead-of-2012-detroit-auto-sho/) is saying the Model X will be at the Detroit Auto Show beginning January 10th.

I would expect then that they would unveil the Model X (and the Inter-City Charging Network) the week of December 12th.

My assumption is that Tesla does not want to announce the Model X while people are away on Christmas Vacation and since they're a public company they generally will be in their "quiet period" the last two weeks of the quarter.

[Robert.Boston]

HEARSAY ALERT!

There's a post on the Tesla boards from someone who was told by a Tesla rep that the Model X will be announced on Dec. 13.

[AnOutsider]

HEARSAY ALERT!

There's a post on the Tesla boards from someone who was told by a Tesla rep that the Model X will be announced on Dec. 13.

link?

[TEG]

Related:
Tesla to reveal Model X alpha version in December | The Car Tech blog - CNET Reviews (http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-13746_7-20087819-48/tesla-to-reveal-model-x-alpha-version-in-december/)

...During its quarterly investor call, CEO Elon Musk reportedly told listeners that the company will unveil the alpha version of the seven-seater electric SUV sometime in mid-December...

[AnOutsider]

Some pretty misinformed pro and anti tesla comments

[vfx]

All the tour guides in the factory where from Tesla stores all over. They came in the day before to get schooled on their routines. They has special red/white shirts while it looked like the locals were in gray.

[AnOutsider]

According to Paul, the Red/black/gray fleeces were for any of the employees that took part in the event.

[John_DeDe]

Yes...that was me...we were in Santana Row last weekend and the rep mentioned to us that December 13 was the day for the big reveal of the Model X...He didn't have any other information regarding deposits on it, but he was fairly confident that current Roadster owners/Model S reservation holders would have "priority". Timing works well for us...Husband will get Model S next summer/fall, and I can get the Model X by early 2014 (when Lincoln MKT goes off lease)...


HEARSAY ALERT!

There's a post on the Tesla boards from someone who was told by a Tesla rep that the Model X will be announced on Dec. 13.

[AnOutsider]

Thanks John (or DeDe :smile:), that's good to hear, and even if not 100% accurate, it's lining up with other rumblings and predictions. That's exactly 1 month from today, so not much further to go. I still wonder *how* the reveal will be done.

Since this lines up with what I was told about the Tesla investment bankers having a little shindig at the NYC store, I wonder if it still holds that the unveil will be there. It would certainly fit the definition of "exclusive".

[jimbakker666]

If the Hearsay Alert is correct, then we're only one week away from the big unveil :)

[WhiteKnight]

If the Hearsay Alert is correct, then we're only one week away from the big unveil :)

Yes, which means invitations should go out for the Unveiling in the next few days!

[Kevin Harney]

Unless it is at an autoshow ....

[AnOutsider]

Yes, which means invitations should go out for the Unveiling in the next few days!

which means the stock will never effing go down lol

[Robert.Boston]

Yes, which means invitations should go out for the Unveiling in the next few days!
...to an elite group of founders, large stockholders, and other VIPs. This unveiling isn't going to be "Fremont 2".

[WhiteKnight]

...to an elite group of founders, large stockholders, and other VIPs. This unveiling isn't going to be "Fremont 2".

You haven't unveiled anything unless you've invited the media. Just like an Apple product unveiling I would expect that the journalists would blog about it when they get their invitation.

[ETM]

Hi all, I remember reading somewhere here that the Model X will be unveiled tomorrow, December 13. If it is not tomorrow, the reveal is going to be this month if
I am not wrong. Please correct me if i am. I cannot stand the suspense! I am really excited to see what the design will be like and get at least some rough specs and prices. I am very confident in TM to make great looking functional cars. I would imagine the X will have the same or similar 17" touchscreen as the S. I expect most if not all their future cars will have the touchscreen. Thoughts? The X will be replacing my range rover assuming TM starts deliveries by late 2013/early 2014. By then I will have the Model S , Model X, and a BMW wagon (for long trips). Hopefully after that TM will have a >500 range car or replacement battery for the S or the X...

[AnOutsider]

Hey ETM,

Yes, we've been discussing the unveil here: Unveiling in November? (http://www.teslamotorsclub.com/showthread.php/6485-Unveiling-in-November/page6)

We've been speculating about features in a number of threads, but this one is the one for wishlists: Model-X wishlist (http://www.teslamotorsclub.com/showthread.php/5748-Model-X-wishlist)

[Norbert]

If it is tomorrow, then it is surprisingly quite so far...

[AnOutsider]

Indeed, but again, if it's to be an exclusive unveil at first, it makes sense. I'm sure everyone who has been invited to NY already knows (whether or not that's tomorrow and/or the reveal point). I'd like to see the X but I'm hoping they do some sort of public announcement as well as its more likely we'd get S pricing options then as well.

[Doug_G]

If I had to guess, the unveiling will not come in November. That's 11 months from now...

[AnOutsider]

If I had to guess, the unveiling will not come in November. That's 11 months from now...

You should be an analyst.

[Doug_G]

You should be an analyst.

Well at least my statements are factual.

[AnOutsider]

Well at least my statements are factual.

Right, you're already ahead of the game :smile:

[Norbert]

Looking forward to the unveiling in 11 months, then... :biggrin:

[VolkerP]

Hey ETM,

Yes, we've been discussing the unveil here: Unveiling in November? (http://www.teslamotorsclub.com/showthread.php/6485-Unveiling-in-November/page6)

True. But this thread has the advantage that the title never expires... :biggrin:

[WhiteKnight]

As far as I know the December 13th date was a process of deduction. I believe Elon Musk said that it was time to unveil the Model X before the end of the year. There were several articles to that effect.

Apple used to generally unveil their products on a Tuesday, I think because they believed that the most people were sitting at their desks in front of their computers on that day and they had the rest of the week for the buzz to reverberate. Waiting until Tuesday, next week - December 20th - would be too long since lots of people will be starting their Christmas vacations next week and Hanukkah starts on the 20th. So the thinking was (at least on my part) that they'd have to do it today. If it gets to noon or 1PM and we don't hear anything then obviously they don't share that line of reasoning.

I would have thought that we'd hear something by now because I would think they would have to invite the press and the press would tip off everybody (through blogs et cetera) to be on the lookout for the big unveiling. The fact that none of that has happened so far makes it seem like Tesla is not stealing a page from Apple's playbook. Can anybody remember the circumstances under which they unveiled the Model S years ago? Was there advance notice so that people could "tune in?"

[WhiteKnight]

Just read this in the Barclays Capital report from today:


Tesla is also making progress to the Model X, a crossover vehicle using the same drivetrain platform as the Model S, and has scheduled a formal Model X Reveal event on February 9th, 2012 at Tesla’s design studio in LA. The February event leads us to believe Tesla is also on track to launch the Model X in late 2013 as planned.

So if we get anything before then it will be just some teaser pictures or that kind of thing.

[WhiteKnight]

Just read this in the Barclays Capital research report from today:


Tesla is also making progress to the Model X, a crossover vehicle using the same drivetrain platform as the Model S, and has scheduled a formal Model X Reveal event on February 9th, 2012 at Tesla’s design studio in LA. The February event leads us to believe Tesla is also on track to launch the Model X in late 2013 as planned.

So if we get anything before then it will be teaser photos or that kind of thing.

[VolkerP]

The Model S unveiling event was announced weeks in advance.

[WhiteKnight]

Just read another report that says that Wall Street analysts are invited to meet with Tesla on December 22nd but that no pictures will be released to the public before the February 9th event.

[WhiteKnight]

Just read another report that says that Wall Street analysts are invited to meet with Tesla on December 22nd but that no pictures will be released to the public before the February 9th event.

[Mycroft]

That's the first day of Winter. I wonder if the Model S options and pricing will be revealed then. It sure would match Elon's under-promise, over-deliver.

[AnOutsider]

2/9/12? That would be a huge buzzkill. *awaits the leaks*

[AnOutsider]

That's the first day of Winter. I wonder if the Model S options and pricing will be revealed then. It sure would match Elon's under-promise, over-deliver.

I was always confused by "Winter" scheduling. If you say "Winter 2011", does that mean after 12/22 but before the end of the year? Or are Jan-March '12 considered part of "Winter 2011"? Not that they said 2011 mind you, the design studio says "this winter".

[doug]

As House Stark says, "Winter is coming."

Threads merged and title updated.

[efusco]

As House Stark says, "Winter is coming."

I get this quote! ~2/3rds through book 5...and slogging along.

[VolkerP]

2/9/12? That would be a huge buzzkill. *awaits the leaks*
It appears, then, that Dec 13 was the unveiling of the release date. Fair guess, but apparently very bad for the stock :scared:

[AnOutsider]

It appears, then, that Dec 13 was the unveiling of the release date. Fair guess, but apparently very bad for the stock :scared:

Yeah, without a public/major reveal this year, I wonder if the stock will coast and dip until the next event (X reveal? S pricing?). Good buying opportunities for sure, but bad move on the PR team's part. Gotta keep momentum and mindshare.

[AnOutsider]

Tomorrow is the supposed event, and nothing has leaked. Impressive.

[WhiteKnight]

Just read another report that says that Wall Street analysts are invited to meet with Tesla on December 22nd but that no pictures will be released to the public before the February 9th event.

If a tree falls in the woods, but nobody hears it, does it make a sound?

[TEG]

Twitter (https://twitter.com/#!/daveimai/status/149940410813394945)

David Imai
@daveimai Los Angeles
Car designer at Tesla Motors
david imai | car designer (http://www.bonimai.com)
Big smiles today at the #Tesla design studio! Indeed a merry "X"-mas for us!


By the way, check out the design sketches:
david imai | car designer | sketches (http://www.bonimai.com/design/sketches.htm)

[TEG]

Twitter (https://twitter.com/#!/Lebeaucarnews/status/150274479648550912)

Phil LeBeau
@Lebeaucarnews Chicago
Covering autos/airlines from Detroit to Japan to Europe for CNBC but still find time to follow Mizzou. Go Tigers!
Behind the Wheel - Phil Lebeau - CNBC (http://behindthewheel.cnbc.com)
Barclay's early impression of #Tesla Model X SUV: "We believe the vehicle will provide a compelling value proposition."

[TEG]

Twitter (https://twitter.com/#!/slangwise/status/150273673612369920)

Barclays touts #Tesla Model X SUV as a premium product for premium customers. Faster than 911, roomier than Audi Q7.

Twitter (https://twitter.com/#!/Bourbon_Meyer/status/150200237301055489)

Per Barclays, the new Tesla Model X goes 0-to-60 faster than a Porsche 911 w/ more interior room than an Audi Q7. Avail 2H13

[AnOutsider]

Speed in an suv? Yesssssssss! I was considering a cayenne before

[WhiteKnight]

Per Barclays, the new Tesla Model X goes 0-to-60 faster than a Porsche 911 w/ more interior room than an Audi Q7. Avail 2H13

The 'slowest' 911 goes 0-60 in 5.0 seconds! Either that is a typo or the Model X will blow the doors off the Model S (non-sport version of course).

[AnOutsider]

The 'slowest' 911 goes 0-60 in 5.0 seconds! Either that is a typo or the Model X will blow the doors off the Model S (non-sport version of course).

So, perhaps the "Performance" Model X will be a Cayenne Turbo fighter:



500 hp @ 6,000 rpm
0-60 mph: 4.4 s
Top Track Speed: 172 mph
22 mpg
MSRP $ 107,100.00

[felixtb]

this is GREAT news. exactly what I was hoping for. already told the Zurich guys that the minute it's possible I'm ordering one!!

:-)

[JRP3]

Twitter (https://twitter.com/#%21/daveimai/status/149940410813394945)



By the way, check out the design sketches:
david imai | car designer | sketches (http://www.bonimai.com/design/sketches.htm)

I know it says "VW" on the front but something like that would be a pretty sweet X design:

[AnOutsider]

I know it says "VW" on the front but something like that would be a pretty sweet X design:

My dealer has that sketch up. I THINK it ended up becoming that sleek Touareg (forget what they called it overseas?)

[Teslawisher]

So... Here's my first post on here. I've been keeping an eye out for some time. Just finally decided to join in. Even though I'm not a reservation holder, I am extremely impressed with how Tesla is coming along and anxiously have awaited all the developments of the Model S and now... ta-da!!! the X. :)

My question... I've been looking, but haven't seen any more tweets, posts, sites, etc. about the private X reveal on the 22nd. Anyone seen or heard anything new?

Lastly, I can't believe the X would have the kinds of acceleration specs mentioned above. I would guess similar to the S signature performance. Almost double the base price and very limited?

Go Tesla!!!

[AnOutsider]

Haven't seen much myself, but I'm going to guess it'll be later this month or early next month that we'll get official mention of it (likely coinciding with an update to the site and design center).


I would guess similar to the S signature performance. Almost double the base price and very limited?

I didn't get that bit though, care to clarify?

[AnOutsider]

Here we go: Tesla plans to unveil electric Model X SUV in February Cleantech News and Analysis (http://gigaom.com/cleantech/tesla-plans-to-unveil-electric-model-x-suv-in-february/)



Musk told me that Tesla plans to unveil the Model X — its third car, which is an electric SUV — at an event on February 9th.

[Robert.Boston]

I didn't get that bit though, care to clarify?
I'm guessing that Teslawisher thought that the Model X is some "supercharged" version of the Model S. It's not, of course; it's the crossover/SUV/mini-van that will borrow heavily from the Model S "skate", with a sales target of 15,000 vehicles/year.

The "informed speculation" on the boards lead me to think that:

There will be a Signature Model X and two or three battery options
The Model X batteries will all need to be somewhat larger capacity than their counterparts on the Model S to achieve the same range
Instead of a Performance package, we'll see an AWD option that uses two PEM/motor combinations, one on each axle
A small but non-trivial portion of Model S reservation holders will shift their reservations over to the Model X

[AnOutsider]

I'm hoping there WILL be performance version. I looked at a cayenne turbo because I like performance and I liked SUVs, but couldn't justify getting rid of my perfectly capable Q5 for a vehicle almost double the price (plus Porsche vehicles just look too much like frogs to me).

I could for the X though. Especially since the Q5 will likely have 50-60k miles by then.

[AnOutsider]

More tidbits from this article (http://www.greencarreports.com/news/1071383_tesla-ceo-2013-model-x-crossover-suv-will-be-unveiled-feb-9):


Although Musk didn't confirm the location, he has previously said that the unveiling would take place at at joint event to mark the opening of Tesla’s southern California design studio.


We also suspect Tesla has something special lined up when it comes to roof design. When we visited Tesla’s Fremont facility last October, several workers hinted that the Model X’s design -- specifically its roof panels -- would completely outshine the 2012 Model S’ panoramic glass roof.

[AnOutsider]

Once it rains, it pours:
Elon Musk: Tesla Model X Set For February 9 Unveiling (http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1066917_elon-musk-tesla-model-x-set-for-february-9-unveiling)

They seem to hint they think it'll be at the Chicago Auto Show:

GigaOM recently met with Tesla CEO Elon Musk and learned that the Model X, most likely in early ‘Beta’ prototype form, will be unveiled on February 9, a date that just so happens to be the opening day of the 2012 Chicago Auto Show.

Tesla Model X all-electric crossover is very quick, very roomy and will be revealed Feb 9th (http://green.autoblog.com/2012/01/06/tesla-model-x-all-electric-crossover-is-very-quick-very-roomy-a/)
This one uses that pic that's been floating around:

http://www.blogcdn.com/green.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/tesla-model--x-maybe-628.jpg


The news comes courtesy of the nerds enthusiasts over at the Tesla Motor Club forum. A member read in a recent copy of Barclays Capital research report that the Tesla's design studio in LA would be the setting for the Model X reveal. We contacted Tesla to confirm, and were told that, "Yes, there will be a February 9th Model X event."
In the original text, "nerds" is struck out.


The upcoming reveal won't have been its first, however. The vehicle was shown to some institutional investor types just before Christmas and, going by a handful of tweets that went out across the internetz shortly thereafter, they were impressed. Quicker than a Porsche 911 and roomier than an Audi Q7, they say. Throw in four-wheel drive and this could get pretty interesting.


Lastly, TheVerge: Tesla Model X electric SUV to be revealed on February 9th | The Verge (http://www.theverge.com/2012/1/6/2686736/tesla-model-x-electric-suv-reveal-february-9th)

I think it's safe to say I'm more intrigued by the X than the S. If they hit it out the park on this one I can see it being my vehicle when it comes out and giving my wife the S.

[Teslawisher]

I just meant, that in order to get the performance from the X that was mentioned earlier in this thread, that it will be via options that will come close to doubling the price of the base model. Similar to the S, whereas to get the 4.4 second 0-60, you have to get the signature performance version. I haven't added everything up, but it seems that you'll end up near 90k as opposed to the base 50k.

I'm certainly not complaining about it, was just speculating. Wonder what the X base price will be.

Can't wait to see the X officially unveiled!

[AnOutsider]

Quick correction: You don't have to get a signature car to get a performance car. You can get a non-sig performance S for 80k (after rebate) vs sig performance for ~98k after rebate.

[Teslawisher]

Yes. I stand corrected. I didn't see the 4.4 0-60 spec on the non-sig performance version. Thanks. So, it's 60% increase in price over the base as opposed to almost 100%. :)

But, with all being said, I was just commenting that I would guess that in order to get the "faster than a 911" in 0-60 in the Model X, you will have to put out a substantial amount over what ends up to be its base price. I would have no problem however with a 6 second 0-60 all electric family hauler. Can't wait!!

[AnOutsider]

Analyst Calls Tesla Model X Electric Crossover “Fast, Roomy� (http://www.greencarreports.com/news/1071509_analyst-calls-tesla-model-x-electric-crossover-fast-roomy)

They got a hand on the report:


“At the first of two events scheduled over the next few months, Tesla provided a preview (including test rides) of its newest vehicle based on the Model S platform, the Model S SUV,” details the report. “Initial spec (i.e 0-60mph faster than a Porsche 911, 40% more room than an Audi Q7, all-wheel drive, etc.) and design (falcon door, aerodynamic body, etc) were impressive/”


We also have to admit that we’ve never heard of a Falcon door, although we suspect it refers to the same automated door handle found on the 2012 Model S, which sits flush with the door panel to reduce aerodynamic drag until needed.

I'd never heard of it either.

This timeline stuff sort of confuses me though:


Interestingly, the Barclays report cites the Model X as being ready for introduction in late 2012, with availability ready by the end of 2013, meaning it will launch as the 2014 Tesla Model X.

[Mycroft]

I'm thinking that "being ready for introduction in late 2012" means that they're planning on introducing the beta in the 4th quarter like they did the Model S. The earlier "availability" would be possible because they already have the factory up and running - they just need to set up a new line. So availability would be possible much earlier than it was for the Model S.

[AnOutsider]

Still a strange phrasing.. In what was is it "available"? Does that mean that's when pre-orders start? Rides? If preorders, that's late, if rides, that's early. If they just mean "some betas will be made", then that doesn't really go with the definition of "available" does it?

*edit* actually, it says *introduction* in late 2012, so again, if we're seeing it next month, isn't that being introduced?

[gg_got_a_tesla]

That sounds reasonable. Prototype unveiling on Feb 9, Beta (with "over 90% production intent") by December 2012 and Production by December 2013.

If, on Feb 9, the X prototype turns out to be as snappy as it promises to be, I wonder how much it might cannibalize current (and future) Model S reservations?!

If the price differential (say, <speculation> the base bare-bones X costs $59,900 before Fed tax credit </speculation>) isn't too much over the base bare-bones S, would it tempt some folks to switch allegiance from the S to the X? Could that adversely impact Tesla's short-to-medium-term health?!

[Mycroft]

It's going to be heavier and less aerodynamic, thus possibly less range. I think the performance version will be the 4-wheel drive model and the price is going to end up around $120k. Just my thinking of course.

It might draw off some Model S reservation holders, but if it were me, I would go ahead with the Model S purchase and plan on selling it or trading it in for the Model X. 2014 is a long time from now.

[dsm363]

I agree. I think they need to try and keep it under $100,000 though. That should be possible with battery prices coming down about 8% per year according to Tesla.

[Norbert]

The earlier "availability" would be possible because they already have the factory up and running - they just need to set up a new line. So availability would be possible much earlier than it was for the Model S.

As far as I understood, Model X will use the same line (or at least mostly, I guess). It has the total capacity to run 2 shifts of about 20,000 each.

[WhiteKnight]

I think the performance version will be the 4-wheel drive model and the price is going to end up around $120k.

"Slowest" 911 runs 0-60 in 5.0 seconds, and the Model X has to weigh more than the Model S, so I don't think it's possible to beat a 911 without two motors. By the way, I would be shocked if the Model S does not have a dual-motor performance version at the same time the Model X is introduced (that beats the current performance model by a substantial margin) to match the AWD 5-series that BMW offers (xDrive). That's the great thing about the skateboard, once developed these innovations can be used across the platform.

[WhiteKnight]

That sounds reasonable. Prototype unveiling on Feb 9, Beta (with "over 90% production intent") by December 2012 and Production by December 2013.

Sounds like I need to plan a trip to Fremont for the Model X Ride Event in December!!! All I want for Christmas is a Model X. I suppose they'll start taking reservations on February 9th!

I think Model S can beat its competition, I think Model X will smash it's competition to smithereens!!!
Model X Will Have Greater Comparative Advantage (http://www.teslamotorsclub.com/showthread.php/6524-Model-X-Will-Have-Greater-Comparative-Advantage)

This could be the real game changer for Tesla (how many !!!s is too many?)

[AnOutsider]

So I take it the race is on to see who on here gets the earliest deposit then?

[felixtb]

So I take it the race is on to see who on here gets the earliest deposit then?

You bet! luckily we are in different markets. :-). sadly you will win since you are in the home market...... ;-(

[ahimberg]

AWD coming down to the S would really tempt me to delay my S if its not too far out (given I'm already expecting late 2012, but end of 2013 is a long time to wait with S's showing up everywhere!)

[Lloyd]

AWD coming down to the S would really tempt me to delay my S if its not too far out (given I'm already expecting late 2012, but end of 2013 is a long time to wait with S's showing up everywhere!)

Or buy the S, reserve the X and keep the one that suits you best. If the backlog keeps up you should be able to get your money out of one you sell!

[JRod0802]

That sounds reasonable. Prototype unveiling on Feb 9, Beta (with "over 90% production intent") by December 2012 and Production by December 2013.

The Model S Beta was unveiled on Oct. 1st, right? With Production starting in Late July, that would be 9.5 - 10 months of beta before production. Wouldn't you think that the Model X would spend less time in Beta (not more) since they'll already know so much about the platform?

I would think Model X beta in early March 2013, production in December 2013.

[JRod0802]

By the way, I would be shocked if the Model S does not have a dual-motor performance version at the same time the Model X is introduced (that beats the current performance model by a substantial margin) to match the AWD 5-series that BMW offers (xDrive). That's the great thing about the skateboard, once developed these innovations can be used across the platform.

I think that Tesla is really out to prove that they can get everything that they promised done on time to prove their viability as a company. At this point they've promised 4 wheel drive on the Model X, but not on the Model S. I feel like that would place delivering the Model X with dual-motors (our suspected method of 4 wheel drive) as a higher priority than upgrading the Model S to have dual-motors. Having dual motors in the Model S would mean redesigning some parts of the car (they'd share the skateboard, but there'd still be some things that need to change to accommodate the extra motor up front).

Considering everything else that they're doing, I guess I'd be surprised if the Model S wasn't delayed a little on getting the dual-motors.

[dsm363]

This is interesting. Gives weights of things people actually tow on average
How Much Truck Do You Really Need? - U.S. News Best Cars (http://usnews.rankingsandreviews.com/cars-trucks/best-cars-blog/2011/05/How_Much_Truck_Do_You_Really_Need/)

[AnOutsider]

I think that Tesla is really out to prove that they can get everything that they promised done on time to prove their viability as a company. At this point they've promised 4 wheel drive on the Model X, but not on the Model S. I feel like that would place delivering the Model X with dual-motors (our suspected method of 4 wheel drive) as a higher priority than upgrading the Model S to have dual-motors. Having dual motors in the Model S would mean redesigning some parts of the car (they'd share the skateboard, but there'd still be some things that need to change to accommodate the extra motor up front).

Considering everything else that they're doing, I guess I'd be surprised if the Model S wasn't delayed a little on getting the dual-motors.

I guess I'm of the thinking that so much is shared that once they get AWD for X, it should be fairly trivial on S. remember X has OPTIONAL AWD, so they still have to design it like the S, then modify for AWD. It might transfer back to the S quite easily in that situation.

[dsm363]

Do you think early Model S owners would be upset if they offered optional second motor in the second year of production on the Model S and didn't offer it as a paid upgrade to the first run of the Model S?

[AnOutsider]

Should and will are very different. As we've seen recently, people will complain no matter what. Automakers make improvements to their cars every model year. Tesla upgraded the Roadsters between version numbers. Same thing. One thing Tesla did do though, was make some of the newer stuff available to older models. Not many manufacturers do that.

[dsm363]

I agree. I'm hoping Tesla sticks to their Silicon Valley roots and does offer upgrades when possible. That'd be something no one else has ever done in the car business that I'm aware of and would show how loyal they are to their customers. I think they'll do it if possible since it would only be a few thousand cars they're have to upgrade at most (since it would likely be a very expensive upgrade and most people wouldn't be willing to do it).

[Robert.Boston]

It's hard to imagine how a RWD Model S could be retrofitted as AWD -- simply too many changes involved, from suspension to coolant flow to electrical, and possibly even to the fundamental skateboard form factor. If you need an AWD Model S, wait (or plan to sell your first-gen).

[JRP3]

Agree with RB. Do not expect an upgrade to AWD for 2WD models.

[Doug_G]

Do you think early Model S owners would be upset if they offered optional second motor in the second year of production on the Model S and didn't offer it as a paid upgrade to the first run of the Model S?

Suppose you bought a brand-new 2012 Nissan Maxima (say), and in six months Nissan announces the all-new 2013 Maxima with AWD. Are you going to be upset about that? Why would you be? Why would the Model S be any different?

[AnOutsider]

I agree. I'm hoping Tesla sticks to their Silicon Valley roots and does offer upgrades when possible. That'd be something no one else has ever done in the car business that I'm aware of and would show how loyal they are to their customers. I think they'll do it if possible since it would only be a few thousand cars they're have to upgrade at most (since it would likely be a very expensive upgrade and most people wouldn't be willing to do it).

It would also generate more revenue from current customers.

[dsm363]

Suppose you bought a brand-new 2012 Nissan Maxima (say), and in six months Nissan announces the all-new 2013 Maxima with AWD. Are you going to be upset about that? Why would you be? Why would the Model S be any different?
No, I wouldn't. You saw what happened when the options were released. I was just asking the question. I don't need AWD but think that if Tesla is planning on introducing in in 2013, it would be helpful for them to let their customers know. I think it will go into the Model X instead.

[WhiteKnight]

Do you think early Model S owners would be upset if they offered optional second motor in the second year of production on the Model S and didn't offer it as a paid upgrade to the first run of the Model S?

(1) Any and every Model S buyer should know that a 4WD version Model S is coming it is only a question of when.
(2) Every Model S buyer should also know that when it gets here the 4WD Model S will be faster than the 2012
(3) I think the 2014 (coming end of 2013) will have 4WD because it will be perfected by then for the Model X

[Teslawisher]

Saw this article (Tesla's electric supercar discounted | Tesla Roadster (http://smh.drive.com.au/motor-news/teslas-electric-supercar-discounted-20120116-1q24q.html)) from today and read a quote from it...

"Based on the Model S’s platform, the as-yet-seen Model X will go on sale in the US next year followed by Australia in 2014. Tesla says it will release renderings and more details of the soft-roader early next month thinly disguised as a “design study”."

Does this mean what we see on Feb. 9 shouldn't be taken too terribly seriously as what we'll see in production? When the Model S was unveiled, it didn't really change too much (in my huble option) in design from then to now.

[AnOutsider]

Tweet from Elon an hour ago:

Twitter (https://twitter.com/#!/elonmusk/status/159033103220867072/photo/1)


Model X Premier on Feb 9 is gonna rock ...

https://p.twimg.com/AjT_w8lCAAAcG0Y.jpg:large

[ckessel]

I wonder if people will be lamenting their "slow" Model S performance model in a couple years :rolleyes:

[AnOutsider]

I wonder if people will be lamenting their "slow" Model S performance model in a couple years :rolleyes:

Same way people lament when a traditional automaker produces a newer and better model? I wasn't upset when the V10 R8 came out, or the Spyders. I got the car I wanted. Can't always sit back and wait for the thing right around the corner.

Plus, hopefully Tesla will find aw ay to upgrade older models (for a fee of course)

[JRP3]

There is always a way to soup something up :wink: Could be as simple as installing a lighter weight, higher C rate pack.

[WhiteKnight]

Saw this article (Tesla's electric supercar discounted | Tesla Roadster (http://smh.drive.com.au/motor-news/teslas-electric-supercar-discounted-20120116-1q24q.html)) from today and read a quote from it...

"Based on the Model S’s platform, the as-yet-seen Model X will go on sale in the US next year followed by Australia in 2014. Tesla says it will release renderings and more details of the soft-roader early next month thinly disguised as a “design study”."

Does this mean what we see on Feb. 9 shouldn't be taken too terribly seriously as what we'll see in production? When the Model S was unveiled, it didn't really change too much (in my huble option) in design from then to now.

When I read that I took it to mean the opposite. That we would see a vehicle that they're calling a "design study" but that is actually very close to what they intend to produce.

[AnOutsider]

When I read that I took it to mean the opposite. That we would see a vehicle that they're calling a "design study" but that is actually very close to what they intend to produce.

Yeah, I saw it the same as well. It's been 3 years since the Model S debuted, and I agree, it hasn't changed all that much. In fact, I'd say there's things on it now (like that dash) that look more concept-car than some of the stuff that was originally on it (except those blue LED headlights).

IIRC, the Model S was unveiled in March 09, and the design was started (again) somewhere around October 08? So deliveries will be about 3 years and 4 months from unveil, and about 3 years and 8 months from when work began ("for realz").

Compare that with the X, and it will be 1 year, 10 months from unveil (assuming 12/2013 deliveries) and probably more like 2 years and 6 months or so from the time things got up to speed on the X.

I say all that to say, we have less time in which they'll be able to make drastic changes than we did with the Model S (going by reveal to deliveries). Couple that with the facts that Tesla is more seasoned now and that they aren't a huge car company that can afford to throw around concepts that won't remotely resemble the final product (volt, et al) and that also leads me to the conclusion that what we see in 3 weeks will be pretty dang close to what we'll get in late 2013.

[Robert.Boston]

Compare that with the X, and it will be 2 years, 10 months from unveil (assuming 12/2013 deliveries) and probably more like 3 years and 6 months or so from the time things got up to speed on the X.
Not to pick nits, but we're in 2012 now, so 12/2013 is only 1 year and 10 months away. But your central point still stands: what we see on Feb 9 is likely to be very close to what we'll see built.

[AnOutsider]

Not to pick nits, but we're in 2012 now, so 12/2013 is only 1 year and 10 months away. But your central point still stands: what we see on Feb 9 is likely to be very close to what we'll see built.

Yes, I think I was editing while you were posting. I had both numbers wrong so I edited it (added a year to both by mistake)

[vfx]

Yeah, I saw it the same as well. It's been 3 years since the Model S debuted, and I agree, it hasn't changed all that much....

I miss the cool 3-D "T" signal marker.

[vfx]

There is always a way to soup something up :wink: Could be as simple as installing a lighter weight, higher C rate pack.

Is it soup or supe?

[JRP3]

:redface: Battery soup? :biggrin:

[Teslawisher]

WK and Outsidr, I certainly hope you're right. I understand the timing from the S being carried over to the X with some expected improvements in that along the way. When a phrase like that ("design study") is used that I don't hear much (but that could be due sheerly to my own naivety about the industry), it does make me pause.

[AnOutsider]

From the green reports article:


Two separate Model X platforms are being tested (with the mention of a different platform perhaps indicating that the Model X will offer all-wheel drive)

[JRod0802]

It was announced during the conference call this morning that at the Feb 9th event, there would be test rides being given :smile:

[AnOutsider]

It was announced during the conference call this morning that at the Feb 9th event, there would be test rides being given :smile:

Yeah... I'm not flying back out to the West Coast lol.

[WhiteKnight]

It was announced during the conference call this morning that at the Feb 9th event, there would be test rides being given :smile:

I heard Elon say that there would be too many people and only 1 vehicle so there would not be enough time for test rides.

[Doug_G]

I heard Elon say that there would be too many people and only 1 vehicle so there would not be enough time for test rides.

Maybe just for the press, then.

[bonnie1194]

Has anyone on this forum been invited to the event? I'd like to go! I'm interested in the Model X, would love to see the unveiling.

[JRod0802]

I heard Elon say that there would be too many people and only 1 vehicle so there would not be enough time for test rides.

He said there wouldn't be enough time for test drives, so because of that they'd be giving test rides. At least, that's what I heard. Maybe I misheard him...

[Citizen-T]

I heard Elon say that there would be too many people and only 1 vehicle so there would not be enough time for test rides.

I think he said there would not be time for "test drives" but said that there would be "test rides". I imagine they would be similar to the Model S Prototype event, just a quick little circle with a fully loaded car. I doubt they will get to everyone, but I'm sure it'll be more than just press.

[JRP3]

I heard the same as CT and JRod.

[WhiteKnight]

I hope y'all are right!

[gg_got_a_tesla]

Has anyone on this forum been invited to the event? I'd like to go! I'm interested in the Model X, would love to see the unveiling.

Yeah, how does one get invited to such an event?! Can we simply drive down to Hawthorne and er... crash the party?! Our Model S reservations can be a reasonable excuse if a bouncer pulls us up?! :wink:

[Kevin Harney]

Yeah, how does one get invited to such an event?! Can we simply drive down to Hawthorne and er... crash the party?! Our Model S reservations can be a reasonable excuse if a bouncer pulls us up?! :wink:

Usually in the past just calling and expressing an interest got you an invite. I mean they really do want to sell cars :)

[gg_got_a_tesla]

Usually in the past just calling and expressing an interest got you an invite. I mean they really do want to sell cars :)

Tried that and heard from a Tesla product specialist that it is a very limited, private event and that all attendees have already been selected :frown: Okay, will have to wait for a public event in the future then...

[Teslawisher]

3 week countdown!! whooo hoooo!!!

[AnOutsider]

Tried that and heard from a Tesla product specialist that it is a very limited, private event and that all attendees have already been selected :frown: Okay, will have to wait for a public event in the future then...

hmm... just got an email... did you?

[dsm363]

hmm... just got an email... did you?
Didn't see you posted this already. Started a new thread but it's probably more appropriate here. I got the e-mail as well.

[Mycroft]

Most likely all Signature reservation holders received the invitation.

[Larry Chanin]

Most likely all Signature reservation holders received the invitation.

Hi Mycroft,

Yes, probably. A Signature reservation holder that I know just received an email invitation.

Larry

[neroden]

(1) Any and every Model S buyer should know that a 4WD version Model S is coming it is only a question of when.
(2) Every Model S buyer should also know that when it gets here the 4WD Model S will be faster than the 2012
(3) I think the 2014 (coming end of 2013) will have 4WD because it will be perfected by then for the Model X

I used to think I needed AWD, but I've been doing fine in a FWD car for several years now, and the Model S should be a lot more stable than the average FWD due to its center of gravity, so I just went "forget it".

In the long run I think all cars will go with independent motors for each wheel -- individually sprung with universal joints to transmit to the wheel -- but it will be a while before Tesla does this. When those start being produced in high quality, I'll want to replace my Model S, but that'll likely take quite a while, as manufacturers seem to be very slow about such advances, so I'm guessing it will be more than a decade. :biggrin:

[AnOutsider]

Just a quick clarification Nero. The model s is RWD, not FWD, so it may in fact behave differently than you're used to.

[AnOutsider]

Tesla in final stages of Model S prep; readying Supercharger network for road trips (http://green.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/tesla-in-final-stages-of-model-s-prep-readying-supercharger-net/)

This is a tad worrying for me:


Tesla wants to offer an alternative to the traditional SUV bodystyle just as it offers an alternative electric powertrain

I hope it doesn't look weird. SUV yes, minivan no.... What's the in between?

[stopcrazypp]

Tesla in final stages of Model S prep; readying Supercharger network for road trips (http://green.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/tesla-in-final-stages-of-model-s-prep-readying-supercharger-net/)

This is a tad worrying for me:



I hope it doesn't look weird. SUV yes, minivan no.... What's the in between?
Given what they have done on the Roadster and S, I'm not too worried the styling will be ugly. I think that quote might be referring to the capabilities, more than the styling (kind of like how the S looks like a Sports sedan/coupe, even though it is a hatchback and has all the capabilities of a hatchback, plus more)?

[Citizen-T]

I too am a little concerned. I trust Elon's judgement, but they've said with the Model S that they could have done some crazier stuff, but they didn't think the public was ready for it, so they made it look like a traditional car. I hope they don't go too far out on that limb this time either.

Do we know, is Franz doing the Model X design? It would make me feel better to know that he is.

[WhiteKnight]

Do we know, is Franz doing the Model X design? It would make me feel better to know that he is.

Yes he is. He is the Chief Designer so he does every design.

[vfx]

Tesla in final stages of Model S prep; readying Supercharger network for road trips (http://green.autoblog.com/2012/01/24/tesla-in-final-stages-of-model-s-prep-readying-supercharger-net/)

This is a tad worrying for me:



I hope it doesn't look weird. SUV yes, minivan no.... What's the in between?

That has been mention before. Imagine the black nose of the Model S being painted the same color as the car.

I would imagine that a new design would not try to emulate a radiator like the S but just use the low down vents and remake the upper part to be stylish and aerodynamic.

[AnOutsider]

That has been mention before. Imagine the black nose of the Model S being painted the same color as the car.

I would imagine that a new design would not try to emulate a radiator like the S but just use the low down vents and remake the upper part to be stylish and aerodynamic.

So similar to this?

http://www.bestautopics.com/wp-content/gallery/Porsche_Cayenne/porsche_cayenne_s.jpg

[Teslawisher]

Two more weeks!!!! :)

In case anyone was wondering. hehe

[jcstp]

Twitter (https://twitter.com/#!/elonmusk)


Yes, we will unveil a fully functional advanced prototype of the Model X -- almost identical to production.

[dadaleus]

I know the live feed will be available, but in case anyone wants more close up pictures, I'll be trying to post them in real time from my phone at evlife.tumblr.com. (It's not a commercial site so no one get mad at me please--and I don't have an easy way to post pictures to this forum from my phone.)

[Doug_G]

I know the live feed will be available, but in case anyone wants more close up pictures, I'll be trying to post them in real time from my phone at evlife.tumblr.com. (It's not a commercial site so no one get mad at me please--and I don't have an easy way to post pictures to this forum from my phone.)

At the factory event I was emailing photos to another list member, and he was posting them - near real time. I'd be happy to do the same for you, if you like.

[AnOutsider]

I'm switching to the iPhone for the weekend since it has a better camera. I think I can post right from tapatalk. I'll give it a try....

[dadaleus]

At the factory event I was emailing photos to another list member, and he was posting them - near real time. I'd be happy to do the same for you, if you like.

Neat. I think I'll stick with just posting via Tumblr since it's so easy, but feel free to repost those here if you have a chance. I may check out tapatalk though. (Thanks AnOutsider.)

[efusco]

Probably someone's already posted this, but found this quote on the Model X page on Teslamotors.com

Model X | Tesla Motors (http://www.teslamotors.com/modelx)

RESERVE YOUR MODEL X
STARTING AT NOON PST ON 02.10.2012

[tnawara]

Probably someone's already posted this, but found this quote on the Model X page on Teslamotors.com

Model X | Tesla Motors (http://www.teslamotors.com/modelx)

RESERVE YOUR MODEL X
STARTING AT NOON PST ON 02.10.2012


Was just about to post this. Now to get the checkbook ready...

[Doug_G]

Probably someone's already posted this, but found this quote on the Model X page on Teslamotors.com

Model X | Tesla Motors (http://www.teslamotors.com/modelx)

RESERVE YOUR MODEL X
STARTING AT NOON PST ON 02.10.2012

See Will the Tesla Website have a section for the Model X after the unveil? (http://www.teslamotorsclub.com/showthread.php/7496-Will-the-Tesla-Website-have-a-section-for-the-Model-X-after-the-unveil?p=110082&viewfull=1#post110082) :biggrin:

[AnOutsider]

Probably someone's already posted this, but found this quote on the Model X page on Teslamotors.com

Model X | Tesla Motors (http://www.teslamotors.com/modelx)

RESERVE YOUR MODEL X
STARTING AT NOON PST ON 02.10.2012

Crap, I knew I left something when packing. No checkbook :(

[efusco]

See Will the Tesla Website have a section for the Model X after the unveil? (http://www.teslamotorsclub.com/showthread.php/7496-Will-the-Tesla-Website-have-a-section-for-the-Model-X-after-the-unveil?p=110082&viewfull=1#post110082) :biggrin:
Yep, beat me by 20 minutes...sorry for the duplicate folks.

[gg_got_a_tesla]

Crap, I knew I left something when packing. No checkbook :(

They may not take reservations at the event tomorrow from the looks of it. I think everyone queues up online at Noon PST on 02/10. So, unless you are in-flight at that time and don't have WiFi, keep your credit card at the ready!

If they do take reservations at the event tomorrow, I'm sure a credit card will do just fine.

[Rifleman]

Crap, I knew I left something when packing. No checkbook :(

I bet they will take credit card (on the model S they do for P reservations, but not for Sig reservations, as I recall)

[AnOutsider]

If they do take reservations at the event tomorrow, I'm sure a credit card will do just fine.

Sweet, let me hold yours :) I actually will be in the air then, but I'm sure I'll have wifi

[Bifff67]

8PM PST, you realize what time that is Eastern? I guess its payback for them always having to watch football starting at 10AM. My real worry is will the server hold up under the load, both the show and the next day reservations!

[Citizen-T]

Man, I would love to see headlines like "Model X reservations crash Tesla's servers".

[LST]

8PM PST, you realize what time that is Eastern? I guess its payback for them always having to watch football starting at 10AM. My real worry is will the server hold up under the load, both the show and the next day reservations!

Man do you realize what time it will be in Europe ? We have to get up 05.00 am on Friday 10th !!! Reservation time is al little
better, noon will translate to 9pm, same day... hope the hype and excitement is justified ! Model X should replace our XC90 Volvo...

[markwj]

I'll sit down to watch it during my lunchtime, midday Friday (Hong Kong time).

[jcstp]

I'll sit down to watch it during my lunchtime, midday Friday (Hong Kong time).

Lucky boy! ;-)

I will be deep asleep by then!
I hope they keep the whole video on internet, so I can watch it with my breakfast! ;-)

[clea]

Just got an email about the Model X reveal and they talked again about the live webcast. The only info was a reference to the TM site Model X page Model X | Tesla Motors (http://www.teslamotors.com/modelx) so i assume that the link to the webcast will be provided there when it is time.

[Doug_G]

http://www.teslamotorsclub.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=4093&d=1328807983