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Tesla Roadster 2.5 Unveiled Ahead Of Model S Debut

Electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla has announced a number of styling and interior updates to its founding model, the Tesla Roadster. This announcement joins news of new dealerships for the niche manufacturer in both Denmark and California.

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Electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla has announced a number of styling and interior updates to its founding model, the Tesla Roadster. This announcement joins news of new dealerships for the niche manufacturer in both Denmark and California.

Dubbed the Roadster 2.5, the most obvious visible tweaks for the Lotus Elise-based sports car are a new front bumper and a faux diffuser at the rear.

Inside, there are new seats, improved sound-dampening (not that engine noise is much of a problem) and a new seven-inch touchscreen with navigation and a reversing camera. 

The Roadster 2.5's electric powertrain remains unchanged, its AC induction motor producing around 215kW and 400Nm of instant torque - leading to a supercar-like 0-60mph (0-96km/h) time of 3.7 seconds.

The driving range of the Roadster's electric motor is listed at around 395km, depending on driving style.

Tesla confirmed earlier this year that it will launch its electric vehicle range in Australia "in the coming year," although it is unclear if we will see the Roadster 2.5 or the all-new Roadster scheduled to debut in 2013.

Speaking with US website Green Car Advisor, Tesla CEO Elon Musk said that while the company hasn’t yet begun work on the next Roadster, tentatively scheduled for 2013, he is exploring the idea of a larger body with a small back seat.

Tesla will soon add a second model to its line-up, in the form of the stylish 2012 Model S sedan.

The base Model S will be available in America for US$49,900 after a government rebate of US$7500. Tesla expects to sell 20,000 units annually by the end of the first year of production.

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