Tesla Model S launched in Hong Kong

[Toramana]

The world’s first premium EV sedan makes its debut in Asia

Tesla Motors new Model premium sedan, a totally electric vehicle, has been launched in Hong Kong and is available now for in-person customer demonstrations and test drives.

The model has been developed specifically in order to demonstrate to the public what a premium EV sedan would look like and what it can be. The Model S can be driven immediately on Hong Kong’s public roads and reviews of the vehicle are so far overwhelmingly positive with test drivers describing it as a ‘joy to drive’ and ‘an amazing car’. Drivers have also praised its quiet and smooth but powerful performance, elegance and responsiveness.

Tesla have also created a ‘Design Studio’ in Hong Kong within its existing service centre. Here customers can use interactive displays to design their own Model S variant on a large touchscreen.

“We are very excited to bring Model S and our new, interactive space design to Hong Kong,” said George Blankenship, vice president of worldwide sales and ownership experience. “Our approach continues to be focused on informing as many people as possible about EVs, our company, and the advanced technology behind Model S. Customers in our space are invited to ask questions and engage with informative product specialists to learn more about the many advantages of driving an electric car. We know we’ve done our job when every customer leaves smiling.”

The Model S has already received many of the motor’s industry’s prestigious awards and accolades during its first year on the market. The vehicle uses automotive-grade lithium-ion batteries and has substantial cargo space as well as a 17” in-dash touchscreen with internet capability.

Tesla has 23 premises in North America and 33 worldwide and plans to continually expand its retail network well into 2013. The company describes its goal as the acceleration of global transition to electric vehicles and designs EV components for other companies such as Toyota and Daimler. Customers can reserve a Model S at one of the company’s outlets or online.

Tesla Model S launched in Hong Kong - Renewable Energy Magazine, at the heart of clean energy journalism

[Toramana]

Worldwide electric vehicle sales to reach 3.8 million annually by 2020

Dave Hurst, senior research analyst with Pike Research, acknowledged that overall sales of EVs have not lived up to automakers’ expectations in a written statement announcing the findings, but he stressed the market is has expanded steadily as consumers sought alternatives to internal combustion engines.

“Indeed, sales of plug-in EVs will grow at a compound annual growth rate of nearly 40 percent over the remainder of the decade, while the overall auto market will expand by only two percent a year,” Hurst said.

Growth worldwide for electric vehicles, with hybrids growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6 percent, and PEVs (combined plug-in hybrid and battery electric) growing at a CAGR of 39 percent between 2012 and 2020.

While Japan is anticipated to be the largest market for hybrids in 2020, the United States is anticipated to be the largest market for PEVs that year. However, European countries, with the combination of high gas prices and supportive government policies, are anticipated to have the highest concentrations of plug-in electric vehicles.

Despite the positive momentum for the market, it still faces hurdles. The report, “Electric Vehicle Market Forecasts,” provides forecasts, market sizing, and market share analysis for light duty hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and battery electric cars and trucks.

The report includes comprehensive data for sales and underlying forecast assumptions for the consumer and fleet markets. Annual vehicle sales by electric vehicle segment and market share for key manufacturers are forecast through 2020, segmented by world region and key countries.

Worldwide electric vehicle sales to reach 3.8 million annually by 2020 - Renewable Energy Magazine, at the heart of clean energy journalism