Tesla’s Affordable ‘Model E’ Entry Model Coming In 2015: Report

Tesla's new entry model, known in the press as the Model E, could make its world debut as early as 2015, new reports suggest.

The new model, focused on lowering the cost of entry into the Tesla family, was originally expected to make its first appearance in 2016 before going into production the following year. 

Speaking with Germany's AutoBild this week, Tesla design boss Franz von Holzhausen reportedly suggested an unveiling could occur at the 2015 Detroit Auto Show. 

For its part, the upstart American carmaker has offered little in the way of concrete details for the new model, although founder Elon Musk has discussed plans openly in recent months.

Musk said the new model will be around half the price of the Model S, which sells at around the $50,000 mark in the US market - but it won't be a no-frills offering.

"A significant improvement in technology is needed to have a compelling affordable electric car," Musk said.

Tesla's Model X SUV, revealed last year, is also expected to make its production debut in 2014, expanding the company's showroom offerings to two models. 

As for Australia, a second-quarter 2014 debut for the Model S is expected, although final pricing and specifications are still to be confirmed.

MORE: Tesla Confirms Australian Model S Deliveries For Early 2014

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