Tesla to Enter Asia Through Japan

American electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla announced today it has decided to expand its operations to Asia, with the first market to receive the electric Roadster being Japan. The carmaker already shipped 12 Japan Signature Series Roadsters to Yokohama, with the arrival date set for May.

The cars to be shipped to Japan from now on are, obviously, right-hand drive versions of the first highway capable EV. The decision to start the expansion from Japan comes both because the country is a hybrid and EV heaven and because of the local government's plan to roll prepare the proper infrastructure for the upcoming EVs.

“With its combination of high-level car enthusiasts and interest and appreciation of cutting edge technology, Japan is a natural market for the Roadster," said Tesla CEO Elon Musk. "The Tesla Roadster is a no-compromise (dakyo no nai) vehicle that makes no sacrifices on performance, design, or engineering."

Aside from Japan, the right hand drive model has already begun sales in the UK and Australia. As it left-hand drive peer, it can travel 200 miles on a single charge and can be fully or partially recharged by solar or wind power. It comes equipped with noise-reduction materials, an upgraded sound system and other enhancements. The following market to receive this version is India.

"The right-hand-drive model is our response to growing demand from high-performance car buyers," Cristiano Carlutti, Tesla's Vice President for European Sales and Operations said when the right hand drive model was presented this February.