tesla model x

There’s now a car that’s specially made for women. No, it’s not in a stereotypical pink, nor does it have automatic signals that can read its driver’s mind. It’s a sports utility vehicle (SUV) known simply as the Tesla Model X – the latest offering from US-based Tesla Motors that was launched on Sept 29. The concept was revealed in early 2012, but took more than three years to be ready.

In an interview with Bloomberg, the company’s CEO, Elon Musk, said the pure-electric Tesla Model X was targeted at the fairer sex. But it isn’t just market spiel, apparently. The company conducted a focus-group study comprising 12 “soccer mum” types in the development phase of the vehicle. Their main concerns were cabin space, ease of loading (and unloading) their children from the vehicle and safety.

Elon Musk, CEP of Tesla Motors
Elon Musk (CEO of Tesla Motors)

The Tesla Model X offers three rows of seats to fit seven. But what’s interesting is how passengers access the rear rows. Tesla has used what it calls “Falcon-doors” that open vertically. Not only does this allow easier entry or egress, but strapping your child in the second-row seats will also be much easier – especially in tight parking spaces.

Like the company’s other vehicles, the Tesla Model X is able to offer shear acceleration, thanks to its electric motor that can propel the car from standstill to 100kmh in under four seconds. It is also packed with enough batteries to run 400km on a full charge.But it’s a pipe dream for anyone lusting after this latest luxe SUV. Tesla had to pack its bags barely a year after its failed attempt to kick-start a sustainable business model in Singapore. That said, based on conservative estimates, the pure-electric Model X would cost at least $650,000 (factoring in taxes, COE and rebates), if it ever made its way to Singapore shores. Do we hear sighs of relief?

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