A Post For My Father

My father is a PE electrical engineer, and an avid hotrodder. This should get him going.

Here ya go dad: 3-phase, 4-pole electric motor, 248hp peak (185kW), 200+ ft lbs of (constant from zero RPM) torque, redline 13,500 rpm, regenerative "engine braking", 0 to 60 in about 4 seconds, 250 miles EPA highway.

I think this quote sums it up:

The Tesla Roadster’s specs illustrate what it does (0 to 60 in about 4 seconds) — as well as what it doesn’t (zero emissions, zero motor oil). With one moving part in the motor, no clutch, and two gears, it’s not only a joy to drive, but to own as well. There is no motor oil to change; no filters, belts, or spark plugs to replace; no oxygen sensors to mistrust before an emissions test — in fact, no emissions test required ever. Other than inspection, the only service we recommend for the first 100,000 miles is brake and tire service.

And for me? This is the first (really attractive, marketable) shot across the bow of big oil and middle eastern dictatorships. Tesla Motors have my best wishes at making this a monstrous success. (Here is another article.)