Tesla Model S: First 50 Units Produced, 29 Delivered
Tesla has confirmed production of 50 Model S vehicles, with 29 already in customer hands and over 39,000 miles logged collectively.
Tesla has reached a production milestone for its Model S saloon, confirming that 50 vehicles have now been completed. Of these, 29 have already been delivered to customers, as the company continues to ramp up output at its Fremont plant.
The announcement follows the first customer delivery in June 2012. According to Tesla, the initial batch of vehicles has already covered more than 39,000 miles in total, providing the company with valuable data as it scales up manufacturing. Tesla’s vice president of worldwide sales and ownership experience, George Blankenship, said the quality team has signed off each car, and the company is learning from having these vehicles in use.
Production ramp and customer demand
Tesla’s Model S production is still in the early stages, with the company aiming to increase output through the rest of 2012. Demand remains strong, with the entire year’s production reportedly sold out well ahead of schedule. Early adopters have already begun to take delivery, and more vehicles are set to reach customers as the ramp continues.
Model S specifications and options
The Model S launched with a base price of $49,900 in the US. Buyers can select from several battery options, with the 60kWh version priced at $59,900 and the 85kWh variant commanding a $10,000 premium over the 60kWh model. The Performance package, available at extra cost, adds features such as Nappa leather with Alcantara accents, carbon fibre exterior details, a high-performance drive inverter, active air suspension with sport-tuned traction control, and upgraded wheels and tyres.
- 17-inch touchscreen infotainment system as standard
- 19-inch alloy wheels included in base specification
- Performance package available with enhanced interior and exterior features
With the Model S, Tesla entered the premium electric saloon segment, targeting buyers seeking a combination of range, technology and performance. The company’s strategy of offering multiple battery sizes and performance levels aims to broaden the car’s appeal within the market for electric vehicles.
What early production means for Tesla
The first 50 Model S units mark an important step for Tesla as it transitions from a niche roadster manufacturer to a company with ambitions in the mainstream executive saloon market. Early feedback from owners and the data collected from the initial cars will inform further improvements in manufacturing and quality control as production continues to ramp up.
With strong pre-orders and a sold-out production run for the year, the Model S launch demonstrates early demand for premium electric vehicles. Tesla’s next challenge will be to maintain quality and meet delivery commitments as it scales up output.
