Tesla Improves Roadster Powertrain, Boosts Range and Torque

Tesla Motors Inc. has selected BorgWarner Inc. for the production of a single-speed gearbox for the Tesla Roadster and is initiating a ramped-up production rate.

Tesla engineers developed the specifications for the new gearbox and provided them to BorgWarner. The new powertrain delivers about 30% higher motor torque on a single gear ratio, and it achieves a 10% higher EPA combined range.

The Roaster torque will be increased to 280 foot-pounds, while the EPA rated range of the car will increase to 244 miles, up from 221 miles. The quarter-mile time for the car is now in the 12.9 second range.

So far, 27 customers have taken delivery of Roadsters.  According to Tesla,

“Customers who own Roadsters with the interim transmission can have their powertrain upgraded free of charge.”

Tesla’s Roadster production is ramping up, as well.

“Tesla Motors starts production of 10 new Roadsters each week. Customers typically take delivery four to six weeks after production begins. The company expects production starts to ramp up to at least 20 vehicles per week within a few months and 40 per week by early 2009.”

As if the Tesla Roadster weren’t cool enough already, it just got about 20% cooler. And a free powertrain upgrade – that’s some seriously good service.

Sources: TreeHugger, Tesla Motors

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