Performance wise, the Roadster is capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds and can travel 245 miles (394 km) on a single battery charge. It can be plugged into any conventional electric outlet, and costs less than $8 to fully charge.
The manufacturer also claims the vehicle has a low cost of ownership, requiring zero oil changes and smog checks. In addition, the lack of a combustion engine means less routine maintenance and fewer parts replacements. Tesla’s mobile service team travels to owners’ homes and offices to perform annual inspections and upgrades no matter where they are located.
The Roadster is also the only performance car that qualifies for financial incentives worldwide. U.S. customers receive a $7,500 tax credit, in addition to individual state incentives, like $5,000 tax credits and sales tax waivers. Owners in most states benefit from automatic HOV lane access – and will continue in California, after HOV restrictions go into effect for hybrid vehicles on July 1, 2011.
“The Roadster served as the catalyst that made driving electric a reality, and has helped us refine electric technology for future models – Roadster owners are part of this important piece of history,” said Tesla VP of Sales John Walker. “Demand for the Roadster is strong as more people realize the benefits of EVs and see them outperform conventional cars without the emissions.”
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