Is Tesla Taking Orders For Vehicles Based On Technology That Hasn't Been Invented Yet?

Elon Musk and Tesla have made some bold claims for the new Tesla Semi and Roadster. Those who understand batteries have been scratching their heads trying to figure out how the company can deliver the specs it’s promising – and concluding that the only possible way is some as-yet-unannounced advancement in battery technology.

Musk says the Tesla Semi will be able to haul 80,000 pounds for 500 miles, and recharge to 400 miles in 30 minutes, which would revolutionize the trucking industry. As for the Roadster, its promised 0-60 acceleration of 1.9 seconds effectively shuts down every one of the world’s baddest supercars, and its touted 620-mile range would be double that of any EV produced to date.

TomM - 12/12/2017 4:38:08 PM

+2 Boost

A radio is not required equipment in a car - However- all states I know of have Odometer laws in place - and while TESLA has MOVED the odometer off the main screens in some instances - there is indeed an odometer in the cars.

SanJoseDriver - 12/18/2017 3:51:46 AM

+1 Boost

Only to employees, they all have them now ;)

zlives - 12/11/2017 3:00:55 PM

0 Boost

solid state batteries are technically proven... so maybe when he delivers the first roadster in 2026... it will all workout.

SanJoseDriver - 12/18/2017 3:55:13 AM

+1 Boost

They are not using solid state batteries on either the Roadster or the Semi. The Roadster has two battery packs stacked on top of one another. It might be a slightly different cell chemistry than the S/X, but unfortunately they are not solid state yet.

TheSteve - 12/11/2017 4:15:51 PM

+7 Boost

Well, they took Model 3 orders before the design was finalized. There are still Model 3 deposit holders who don't expect to take possession of their vehicle for another 2 years.

As always: Caveat Emptor.

MDarringer - 12/11/2017 8:28:40 PM

+4 Boost

In a word...YES.

People are dumb enough to put down deposits which is free money. When he goes belly up, he doesn't have to pay a dime. If he sells Tesla then someone else is stuck with the mess. Meanwhile, his pockets get lined.

Vette71 - 12/11/2017 8:51:29 PM

+3 Boost

One has to wonder sometimes is this the second coming of John DeLorean on an epic scale? Always way way out in front.

skytop - 12/13/2017 11:16:50 AM

+4 Boost

Smoke & Mirrors. Beware of the man named Musk.