[Jason Lattimer]

They probably refer to it as a one speed automatic so traditional people know how to relate to it. When I told my dad, who is a classic car nut, it was direct drive with no transmission he looked puzzled and asked if it was a CVT. I had to explain to him it was like the motor was connected directly to the differential. Now being a car guy, he knows what a differential is but a lot of normal people would not. The one speed automatic thing explained it perfectly to my wife, who could care less how it was powered.

[somanywelps]

I just call it a single speed gearbox, people get the idea. Or an ~8:1 rear differential direct drive.

[bjfreeman]

watch a live stream of the Tesla first Model S' being delivered to their customers. The web link is here:
http://www.teslamoto...l-s-has-arrived

It is live from the Fremont California Tesla Factory today Friday June 22, at 3:30 PM PDT, or 5:30 in my Central time.

[Mark C]

All the great news about the Tesla sedan makes perfect sense to all of us. Purpose built EV, therefore great aero = greater range for the energy on board, the stronger body = better crash survivability & nobody anywhere can fault them for cheaping out on the structure.

The best mpge rating may be a bragging point to Mitsu, as in 112 mpge but that kinda falls down a bit when you look at the range in the low 60 miles neighborhood. So the Model S only scores 89 mpge, big deal, the base battery equipped model also EPA trumps all else in the range department at a minimum of twice a Leaf / Focus / i-MiEV range. Now, that is bragging material.

I say "GO TESLA!"

[jeremyjs]

Not to mention it'll go like a raped ape, handle like it's on rails with that low center of gravity, and have as much room inside as a mini van. A purpose built EV chassis is definitely the way to go. With everything to drive the car under your feet, providing additional structural support, leaving the whole interior of the car for seating and storage you're not as good as an ICE vehicle, you're better in nearly every way. If only I had the money to buy one.

[Tatsushige]

Do not knock the LEAF, they are getting a new battery pack that will double its range and face lift this year. they can also now power your house in case of blackouts ...

[Mark C]

Originally Posted by Tatsushige

Do not knock the LEAF, they are getting a new battery pack that will double its range and face lift this year. they can also now power your house in case of blackouts ...

I mean no disrespect to Nissan and the LEAF, far from it. The wife and I've test driven a LEAF and an i-MiEV as possible replacements for my current ride. We both liked the value proposition of the LEAF, and its comfortable ride. It's already wife approved and our delay buying is for me to get all of our ducks in a row so to speak, and means the version I get should do just fine.

I {mis?}understood the Vehicle to Home device to be an optional item, but it looks like it could be of great value.

[Tatsushige]

Originally Posted by Mark C

I {mis?}understood the Vehicle to Home device to be an optional item, but it looks like it could be of great value.

I would wait until the end of this year when the new LEAF are imported in the US/Canada .. the new LEAF has a face lift, larger battery pack doubling its range, a improved heater/Aircon so not to drain the battery and LEAF to home is standard (In Japan it is anyway, so the NA LEAF should be the same).

0.170Chrysler Ghia Dart19550.170Chrysler Ghia Dart1955

[rochesterricer]

What is your source for the info on the Leaf battery pack? I haven't heard anything about them doubling the range. I've read that the range in the cold with be significantly improved, but that is because of the new heater design.

[Jason Lattimer]

Originally Posted by rochesterricer

What is your source for the info on the Leaf battery pack? I haven't heard anything about them doubling the range. I've read that the range in the cold with be significantly improved, but that is because of the new heater design.

I've heard the same rumor, but I don't remember where. I wouldn't put much faith in it or it would be all over the news. It would also be a damn near 50 kwh battery pack.


Found it.....here it is on Tree Hugger.....http://www.treehugger.com/cars/nissa...e-by-2015.html