ESCI KSP

Smart Transportation

ST-4.3 Electric and Hybrid-Electric Vehicles

The Tesla Roadster can travel more than 321 kilometers (200 miles) on a single charge of its lithium-ion battery pack, and can accelerate from 0–96 kph (0-60 mph) in 3.9 seconds.

The Roadster is powered by a 3-Phase Alternating Current Induction Motor. Small, but strong, the motor weighs just over 52 kilograms (115 pounds). 375 volts push up to 900 Amps of current into the motor to create magnetic fields. It delivers 288 peak horsepower and 295 lbs-ft of torque at the driver’s command. At top speed, the motor is spinning at 14,000 revolutions per minute.

The Roadster is controlled by state-of-the-art vehicle software. Rooted in Silicon Valley tradition, the code is developed in-house with an intense focus on agile and constant innovation. The system monitors the status of components throughout the car, shares information to coordinate action, and reacts to changing external conditions.

The advantageous strength to weight ratio of carbon fiber means using about 30% less material (by mass) than steel to build a light, strong, and safe body.

The Tesla Roadster is nearing the end of its production run and will soon be replaced by the Tesla Model S.


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