Tesla & Toyota Partnership looks like a winner
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda and Tesla CEO Elon Musk in front of the Tesla model 'S'
Arnold in front of the Tesla model 'S'.
Tesla model 'S' studio shot
Tesla Roadster
Tesla paid $42 million dollars to purchase the former NUMMI pant (New United Motor Manufacturing Inc) in Silicon Valley, and includes 207 acres which is about 55% of the site and includes all manufacturing facilities there.
As part of the deal with Tesla, Toyota has agreed to buy $50 million worth of stock in Tesla’s IPO (initial public offering).
Part of the informal agreement is a joint development of a brand new, $30,000 electric car that will contain Tesla’s unique power train design, with everything else built by Toyota.
The new Tesla ‘S’ sedan due out in 2012 and the joint venture car are scheduled to be manufactured at the former NUMMI plant.
There are plenty of things that need to be worked out, but it sounds like an exciting venture.
I spoke with someone recently that test drove the Tesla Roadster, and he said when he pushed the ‘pedal to the metal’ it literally took his breath away. “It was just SO fast, and very quiet!” And he is not a stranger to fast cars.
Tesla offers a lease for their roadster with a 3 year/ 30,000 mile contract.
The Tesla ‘S’ sedan is taking reservations, and anticipates deliveries beginning in 2012 with a base price of $49,900. It boasts a 300 mile range, a 45 minute quick charge, 0-60 in 5.6 seconds, seating for 7 (5 adults and 2 children), more cargo space than sedans typically have, 2x as efficient as hybrids and a 17” infotainment touchscreen.
Top speed is said to be 120 mph.
