Tesla’s pioneering SUV, Model X, is finally here.

After substantial profits losses and very much behind schedule, Tesla has recently unveiled their fully electrical SUV, Model X. South African-born CEO Elon Musk admits to “getting a little carried away” with this new model in Tesla’s line-up.
“I’m not sure anyone should really make this car. There are far more things there that are needed to sell it.”
He also stated that it was the hardest car to in the world to build.

According to Tesla, Model X will be the fastest, safest, eco-friendliest way to transport seven adult passengers around town and beyond. At over two and a half tonnes, it’s as heavy as a Volvo XC90, and has a towing capacity of 5000 pounds (+/- 2270 km). The two models that are currently available, are the 90D (+/- R1.76 million) and the more athletic P90D. (R 1.89 million). The P90D has two electric motors: a 193kW motor powers the front wheels, and a 375kW rear-mounted motor drives the rear for all-wheel drive. It has a 400km range and will reach 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds, topping out at 250km/h. Not fast enough for you? Tick the ‘Ludicrous Speed Upgrade’ box and your P90D will be capable of catapulting you from 0 to a 100km/h in a blistering 3.2 seconds.

The slightly milder 90D will accelerate from 0 – 100 in 4.8 seconds and has a range of 414 km, with a 193kW motor in the front as well as the rear.

Model X shares most of its underpinnings with the Model S (launched in 2012), as well as its futuristic cabin. The impressive double-hinged “Falcon Wing” rear doors that open in a “balletic motion”, were carried over from the concept car. Musk says they extend outwards by only 30 cm. They’re also fitted with sensors that scan the area around the vehicle to determine how much available space there is, and will adjust the “wing span” of the doors accordingly. They open in under 7 seconds, and will only close if they sense there are no obstacles in the way.
Model X also has the largest all glass panoramic windshield currently in production, which is made up of seven layers. The front doors are self-opening and closing.

Safety wise, Model X scores five stars in every US federal safety category. For starters, the absence of an engine block allowed engineers a longer distance for an impact-absorbing crumple zone. The low centre of gravity (thanks to the floor-mounted battery pack) also makes the Model X about 50 percent less likely to roll over, compared to your average SUV or mini-van. But apart from cameras, radar, sonar and other advanced collision prevention systems, the medical grade HEPA filter that even removes viruses from cabin air, is the most impressive. In Mr. Musk’s own words, it creates “hospital operating room cleanliness in the car.” Boasting a ‘Bioweapon Defense Mode’ button, it can provide protection for all occupants in an apocalyptical situation, and can even create positive pressure inside the cabin.

With fuel savings of up $1 000 (R 13 360) per year, and eligibility for significant tax deductions, owning a Model X is not entirely out of reach for the upper-middle classes. The estimated waiting period for new reservations is 9 – 12 months, and there are already 30 000 plus orders for Model X. The slightly more affordable versions are still to come