PALO ALTO -- Tesla is taking the world’s first premium electric sedan, Model S, across North America. Model S Beta prototypes will be on display for public viewing from Toronto to Newport to introduce the country to the car of the 21st century. The Beta prototypes on display are 90% production intent in fit finish and performance, and provide customers the opportunity to experience how their future car will look and feel. More information on event locations can be found here: www.teslamotors.com/events

Model S is the first sedan designed from the ground up as an electric vehicle. Equipped with Tesla’s advanced electric powertrain, Model S provides instant torque and smooth acceleration from 0-60 in less than six seconds. The all aluminum body is engineered for superior handling, safety and efficiency. With the most energy dense battery pack in the industry, and best-in-class aerodynamics, Model S has the longest range of any electric car in the world.

Model S seats five adults and two children. With no internal combustion engine or transmission tunnel, the interior of the car has class-leading cargo space, including a second trunk under the hood. The centerpiece of the interior is a 17” touchscreen with wireless connectivity for streaming radio, web browsing and navigation. Model S comes with three battery pack options, 160, 230 or 300 mile range. It can be recharged using any conventional outlet and is capable of a fast charge of 45 minutes.

Model S is incredibly convenient to own. It requires less routine maintenance than conventional cars, does not need regular oil changes or exhaust system work tune ups, and there is no need to warm it up in the morning. Model S has no spark plugs, pistons, hoses, belts or clutches to replace. Tesla’s mobile service program sends Tesla Rangers to customers’ homes and offices when needed.

Deliveries of Model S begin in mid-2012. Customers can reserve their Model S in one of Tesla’s retail stores, or online. Already, Tesla has more than 6,500 reservations for Model S.

The Model S Beta vehicles represent the phase of development before final production. Their unveiling marks Tesla’s transition into a mass-production automaker, and the creation of the world’s first sedan built from the ground up as an electric car. Closely approximating Model S’ final appearance and unique driving dynamics, the Beta vehicles deliver the instant acceleration and smooth, quiet ride that defines the Tesla brand. The term “Beta” is borrowed from Tesla’s Silicon Valley roots, denoting a near-final test phase. Now that the car’s architecture and performance have been proven, Tesla will continue learning, testing and incorporating feedback into the final, polished product -- on schedule for delivery next year.

About Tesla

Tesla’s goal is to accelerate the world’s transition to electric mobility with a full range of increasingly affordable electric cars. Palo Alto, California-based Tesla designs and manufactures EVs and EV powertrain components. Tesla has delivered more than 1,650 Roadsters, the world’s first electric sports car, to customers world-wide. Model S, the first premium sedan to be built from the ground up as an electric vehicle, goes on the market in mid-2012.