Tesla Model S prices to top out at $77,400 for 300-mile range variant

March 8, 2011March 8, 2011 Omar Rana electric-cars, electric-vehicles, Model S, plug-in hybrids, Sedans, Tesla Model S, Tesla Model S Alpha, Tesla Model S Sedan

Tesla Motors took some time out and wrote a post on its blog to provide more details on the upcoming Model S electric sedan. Tesla said that the first Alpha prototype testing is in full swing. The first Alpha Tesla Model S hit the road in Dec. 2010.

“Final assembly of the production-intent Beta vehicles will be done at the Tesla Factory this year and provide us with further testing and development opportunities,” Tesla said.

Tesla said that the first deliveries for the North American market will start in mid-2012. The first 1,000 units to roll off the assembly line will be the top-of-the-line Model S Signature Series. Those units will be equipped with a 300 mile range battery and will feature unique badging and an extensive list of options.

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Following the first 1,000 units of the Tesla Model S Signature Series, the electric-car maker will begin production of the 230 mile range variant followed by the 160 mile range variant in later 2012.

Tesla said that it plans to produce a total of 5,000 units in 2012, with production capacity reaching 20,000 units per year in 2013.

U.S. pricing for the Tesla Model S (with a 160-mile range) will start at $49,900 after a $7,500 federal tax credit. The 230-mile range variant will cost an additional $10,000, while the 300 mile range variant will cost an extra $20,000. Final pricing figures will be announced this summer.

Refresher: The Tesla Model S sedan can be recharged from any 120v, 208v or 240v outlet. Depending on which Model S trim-level you chose, the all-electric sedan will provide you with a total range of 160, 230 or 300 miles per charge. 0 to 60 comes in just 5.6 seconds with a top speed that is limited to 130 mph. Pricing is expected to come in at $49,900 after a federal tax credit of $7,500. A $5,000 reservation fee is required but is refundable.