I must say this is a little depressing. Three years feels like forever (as I eye Model 3).2015 will be "the Year of the Model X" just like 2012 was "the Year of the Model S."
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I must say this is a little depressing. Three years feels like forever (as I eye Model 3).2015 will be "the Year of the Model X" just like 2012 was "the Year of the Model S."
It makes sense when you consider that until the X is available, they want to steer as many people as possible towards buying the S. Giving an AWD option will help them persuade X reservation holders to act now on an S.I'm going to agree with those that think D likely stands for "dual motor" for an AWD Model S. It does surprise me that they'd release an AWD Model S before the Model X is available, from a marketing standpoint. But Tesla has often been about shipping things "when it's ready" and we know that AWD Model Ss have been in testing for a while.
Not sure where you're getting four seats, but no.Doug - if the Model S D85 is AWD with 4 seats, does that change your position regarding marketing?
Not sure where you're getting four seats, but no.
I don't really think there is much new info to read into that VIN description. Dual motors for the Model S is no surprise. It was promised as early as the Model S premiere back in March of 2009 (so it makes since to make a designation for it in the VIN). Elon specifically said it would be done with a second motor in the front which would take up some of the front trunk space. More recently, during an event in Europe over a year ago, Elon started to mention the AWD Model S, but George B cut him off. I think the reasoning was that there are Model X reservation holders that specifically want it for the AWD feature and they didn't want to cut into the success of the Model X launch.
But there are good reasons to rethink that strategy. For one the Model X is likely to be production limited anyhow as they start deliveries, so demand really won't be an issue. And second, given the delays with the Model X, might as well take advantage of those extra Model S sales now.
Going to 4 seats seems like an odd choice. Whatever it is can't wait to see it.
Going to 4 seats seems like an odd choice. Whatever it is can't wait to see it.
I think it meant 2 rows or 3 rows? Anyone check their vins to compare that?
think about the Chinese market.. 2 rear seats allows for a roomier ride, for the rich chinese owners being chaufeered around, its probably more expensive with the dual motors as well, perfect for the high end Chinese market, which is where Tesla is counting on major sales.
Sure, I think the Model S and Model X are already differentiated enough that it makes sense to offer an AWD Model S. The issue was timing. With a delayed Model X, it makes sense to go ahead with an AWD Model S.Restraint System = 4 Seats.
The Restraint System "3" is new. (FR, SR*2) is two front and two rear (which is new) and the (FR, SR*3) two front and three rear is the current system. The Dual Motor Model S will be similar to a Porsche Panamera and have 4 seats (and a higher end interior). This would differentiate from Model X in that if you want the function of seating 5 or 7 adults, go with the SUV, if you want the performance and luxury of the D85, go with the Sedan. So, from a marketing standpoint these products are clearly differentiated.