Tesla Model S Official Photos and Details Released

The "electric" excitement that has come over the automotive world during the past few months has peaked today as the official details of the "first mass-produced highway capable EV", the Tesla Model S, were released by the San Carlos, California-based manufacturer.

We will spare you the "wows" and "greats" that should come with the Model S- even if we can't help to say this is the best EV to date- and go right into it.

And will start with the preparation needed for the trip. Model S' onboard charger can be plugged into any 120V, 240V or 480V outlet. The most powerful household outlet can charge the battery in only 45 minutes. In addition, the floor-mounted battery pack is designed to be changed out in less time than it takes to fill a gas tank. Tesla will provide three battery packs for the Model S, which will give customers ranges of 160 (257 km), 230 (370) or 300 (482 km) miles per charge.

The standard Model S leaps from naught to 60 mph in under six seconds, with the sport versions capable of reaching the same speed in under five seconds. The Model S will have an electronically-limited top speed of 130 mph (209 km/hour). The S features a single speed gearbox, allowing for better acceleration.

Infotainment is ensured via a 17-inch touchscreen with in-car 3G connectivity, which will allow its occupants access Pandora Radio, Google Maps, or check their level of charge remotely from their iPhone or laptop.

One of the other key aspect of the Model S is that it costs only $49,900, after a federal tax credit of $7,500 is applied. As Elon Musk, Tesla CEO said: “Model S costs half as much as a Roadster, and it’s a better value than much cheaper cars.” What really got us worked up is that the EV, which actually comes in two versions, Model S and Model S Signature, is already available for order. The downside is that the company will start deliveries of the cars in 2011.

We recently told you why all electric vehicles are most likely to become an everyday presence only some 50 to 100 years from now. Tesla Model S doesn't do much to change that opinion, but it does allow us to hope this segment of the industry is on the right track: much better design than other EVs, perhaps the greatest power of them all (except Tesla Roadster) and most of all, a price most of us can afford.