Tesla Model X crossover revealed

The Tesla Model X concept seen in 2012 has been turned into reality. At the Freemont plant in California, Tesla founder and CEO, Elon Musk, revealed the car and outlined some of its innovative features, including, of course, its signature 'Falcon Wing' doors that come with built-in ultrasonic sensors to detect nearby objects. An active spoiler at the rear of the car automatically adjusts to three positions, depending on speed. The windshield also curves into a panoramic roof, which is the first of its kind.

Inside, the Model X’s cabin is based on that of the Model S, and includes the large 17-inch touchscreen infotainment system which has become a hallmark of Tesla cars. The Model X seats seven with the middle row getting three independently operable seats and the third row, two flat-folding seats, enhancing the option for space. It also has two boots, similar to the Model S. The front fascia includes an integrated HEPA filter system, which the carmaker claims provides "medical-grade air to the cabin, no matter what is going on outside".

Power for the SUV comes from the same dual-electric motor setup as the Model S P85D, with the front motor offering 255bhp and the rear motor producing 496bhp – giving a combined output of 751bhp and 98.57kgm of torque. These numbers help the Model X with a claimed 0-100 time of 3.2 secs and a top speed of 250kph. Even with such fast numbers, the Model X has a driving range of over 400km on a single charge. With an aim to achieve a 5-star safety rating, the standard features on the Model X include autonomous emergency braking and a side collision detection system, as well as a forward-facing camera, radar and sonar sensors.

Full pricing has yet to be revealed, but in North America, the Model X is expected to be priced at a similar level as the Model S.