Tesla released its first car, the Tesla Roadster, in 2008, with the first customer deliveries beginning in February of that year. This milestone marked the debut of the first highway-legal serial production all-electric vehicle (EV) to use lithium-ion battery cells, signaling a major shift in the automotive industry towards sustainable transportation.
The Tesla Roadster was developed in collaboration with Lotus Cars, based on the Lotus Elise chassis, but with a fully electric powertrain. It featured impressive performance metrics, such as a 0-60 mph acceleration time of around 3.7 seconds and a driving range of approximately 245 miles on a single charge, which helped challenge perceptions about EV limitations. The term "lithium-ion battery" refers to the advanced energy storage technology that provided higher energy density compared to older battery types, enabling longer ranges and faster acceleration.
Industry authorities, like the EPA and automotive publications, recognized the Roadster for its innovation. For instance, it achieved a top speed of 125 mph and had a base price of about $109,000. Production continued until 2012, with around 2,450 units sold, laying the groundwork for Tesla's future models like the Model S.
Here are some key data points supporting the Roadster's release and impact:
| Specification | Detail |
|---|
| Release Year | 2008 |
| First Delivery Date | February 2008 |
| Model Name | Tesla Roadster |
| Vehicle Type | All-electric sports car |
| Acceleration (0-60 mph) | 3.7 seconds |
| Driving Range | 245 miles |
| Top Speed | 125 mph |
| Battery Technology | Lithium-ion |
| Base Price | $109,000 |
| Production Years | 2008-2012 |
| Total Units Produced | ~2,450 |
| Chassis Basis | Lotus Elise |
| EPA Certification Year | 2008 |
| Charge Time (240V) | ~3.5 hours |
| Horsepower | 248 hp |
| Torque | 273 lb-ft |
| Curb Weight | 2,723 lbs |
| Body Style | 2-door roadster |
| Transmission | Single-speed fixed gear |
This release was crucial for establishing Tesla's credibility and spurred growth in the EV market, influencing later advancements in autonomous driving and energy efficiency.
