Tesla Model X - Electric Crossover SUV

Elon Musk demonstrates the 'Falcon-wing doors

Named after (arguably) the most daring inventor of our time, the most daring (arguably) car company in the world unveiled it's latest model, an SUV given the name Model X. It's all electric powertrain, surprisingly, is not the most striking feature, but rather it's take on gull-wing doors, rather snazzily named 'falcon-wing' doors.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk chose to focus on the 'falcon-wing' doors during a preview for a small group of journalists at Tesla's design center in Los Angeles, rather creatively these doors lift up from the sides, then hinge in the middle before gaining their full height. This allows the falcon to spread it's wings in narrower spaces than would a 'gull-wing' equipped car, so much so that Elon Musk claims that they give the Model X the largest door openings of any passenger car. Impressively, he was able to stand in the car, his head underneath the open door, without crouching.

The Model X, uses a slightly elongated version of the Model S platform, has a full third row of seats. Musk then proceeded to demonstrate how the 3rd row could be accessed without folding down the middle-row seats, but by sliding the middle row forward.

In common with the Model S, the Model X has its lithium ion battery pack low down, built into the chassis of the car. It's assumed that Tesla will offer the same battery configuration options as for Model S, although the Model X will suffer a reduced range due to its increased weight. New to Tesla in the Model X will be a 4-wheel drive option, which, it has to be said, will further increase weight.

Sales are scheduled to start in 2014, with prices similar to the Model S. Exciting times for the Tesla team and all who wish to see creativity flourish, as what Tesla have achieved already in such a short history is truly remarkable, here's to their continuing success.