Tesla in deal with Daimler - Page 4

graham · 08-29-2008, 11:00 AM

Financial Times confirms Tesla to supply batteries for electric Smart - AutoblogGreen

Kardax · 08-29-2008, 12:21 PM

I can't help but wonder if we're seeing the TH!NK fiasco all over again.

The only way this would make any sense for Tesla is if the Model S battery pack design was basically done, thus freeing engineering resources for side-projects like this.

If this works out, Daimler could be a great business partner for Tesla, with their extensive manufacturing experience and resources. If it doesn't work out, it would be an embarrassment, but wouldn't hurt the company much, otherwise.

-Ryan

malcolm · 08-29-2008, 12:32 PM

Er.... I would sincerely hope the Model S pack design is done. Way too late if not.

Joseph · 08-29-2008, 03:54 PM

The first thing that came to my mind was, "Th!nk" when I saw this, but I'm sure they thought over this especially after they already made the mistake once.

However, there is one big difference between the two: volume. Th!nk, if I remember correctly, is aiming for tens of thousands of vehicles while Smart is only asking for 150. This should make it easier for Tesla, I believe.

DDB · 08-29-2008, 05:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Kardax

I can't help but wonder if we're seeing the TH!NK fiasco all over again.

The only way this would make any sense for Tesla is if the Model S battery pack design was basically done, thus freeing engineering resources for side-projects like this.

If this works out, Daimler could be a great business partner for Tesla, with their extensive manufacturing experience and resources. If it doesn't work out, it would be an embarrassment, but wouldn't hurt the company much, otherwise.

-Ryan

I agree. I tend to think Tesla's expertise is in the drivetrain and other mechanics, not the battery IMO. Why wouldn't Daimler go with someone safe like A123 or Enerdel? I think it's dangerous for Tesla to try to master all aspects because they're almost going to have to outsource to a third party if they are truly going to compete. Just consider the expense of the Volt's battery pack...no way does Tesla have those type of resources. Are we off base?

graham · 08-29-2008, 05:41 PM

I think most of Tesla's Patent IP is around the battery, actually. Until battery chemistry changes dramatically, their work on batteries is arguably their most valuable asset to other manufacturers.

JRP3 · 08-29-2008, 05:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by graham

I think most of Tesla's Patent IP is around the battery, actually. Until battery chemistry changes dramatically, their work on batteries is arguably their most valuable asset to other manufacturers.

Exactly. Their battery setup is the main reason the Tesla can do what it does.

jorgbrown · 08-30-2008, 03:01 AM

So autobloggreen got a story from Financial Times about Tesla supplying batteries for the SmartCar.

Financial Times confirms Tesla to supply batteries for electric Smart - AutoblogGreen

It reminded me of something I saw in the parking lot of Tesla Motors in San Carlos

Note 1: The Tesla MFG (Manufacturing) license plate.

Note 2: No exhaust

Note 3: The gearshift was the Tesla 1/2/R shifter, not the SmartCar shifter. I couldn't get a good shot with my celphone, so I had to come back with a better camera, but by then the car was gone. Sigh.

For comparison, here's a shot of a real SmartCar that shows you where the exhaust pipes would be:

malcolm · 08-30-2008, 04:30 AM

Fantastic news. Thank you jorgbrown.

The upshot of this is that a Bluestar "clone" can come to market years ahead of schedule.

The smart fortwo was originally intended to be a hybrid back in the days when swatch were involved. Various companies have made EV versions over the years including the UK's Zytek, who also made an elecrtic Elise - now in the Gaydon Motor Museum.

If Tesla are sharing battery technology, I hope that Daimler are sharing their polymer body panel processing techniques.

dpeilow · 08-30-2008, 04:58 AM

When did you see that, Jorg?