2009 Detroit Auto Show: Tesla Ups the Juice in the New Roadster Sport

on January 13, 2009 at 5:25 am

Some eco-friendly cars offer great fuel economy and zero emissions but lack in the performance department. Tesla was the first company to really buck the trend and offer a vehicle with true sports car performance. Now they have taken their already impressive Roadster and added even more power with the Tesla Roadster Sport. Their second offering will travel from 0 to 60 mph in 3.7 seconds versus the 3.9 seconds it takes the base model. Both cars redline at 14,000rmp.

So, what’s the main difference you may ask? And, you may be pondered by the first part of the answer, but we will try and explain. The Sport version includes a hand-wound stator that increases winding density in order to lower resistance and raise peak torque. Essentially, the stator is the stationary part of the electric motor. The suspension has been improved with new dampers and anti-roll bars that are driver adjustable. Yokohoma’s Ultra High Performance Tires provide the rubber.

So, far 150 of the Tesla Roadsters have been delivered with 1100 people still on the wait list. There is some good new for those still waiting. If you haven’t taken delivery of your vehicle yet you can upgrade to the Tesla Roadster Sport, which will be available in late June.

Price starts at $128,000 USD and 112,000 Euros.

Source: Tesla Motors