Tesla unveils sticker price for its Model S electric vehicle

As Americans pursue different ways to go green in 2012, some are considering buying electric vehicles. And while sales have been somewhat limited for two of the more popular electric automobiles—the Nissan Leaf and the Chevy Volt—Tesla is hoping to invigorate the market with an updated version of one of its classic electric offerings.
The carmaker recently announced that it would start selling its latest Tesla Model S sometime in 2012. While Tesla has detailed what the Model S looks like and what features it has, it's been tight-lipped about how much it will cost.
But in late December, Tesla announced how much their newest electric model will cost in 2012, a 365-day period which the company dubbed "The Year of Model S."
Model S will fetch $49,900 after tax credits
"There have been a lot of rumors about price increases lately," said George Bankenship, vice president of worldwide sales at Tesla. "I'm happy to say that all Model S pricing remains unchanged, including the basic version with the 40 [kilowatt-hour lithium] battery at the price we announced in 2009 of $49,900 after federal tax credits."
He added that the price includes standard features such as the 17-inch touch screen on the console, 19-inch wheels and a universal mobile connector that will enable motorists to power up their vehicles quickly.
Price higher for models with higher battery capacity
While the price may be costly for some, motorists who have the ability to spend more will be rewarded with improved performance. According to Cars.com, a standard 40-kWh battery will enable a Model S to travel 160 miles while traveling at an average speed of 55 miles per hour. However, Tesla will also offer models that have battery capacities of 60-kWh and 85-kWh. At the same speed of 55 mph, motorists in these cars will be able to travel 230 and 300 miles, respectively.
The increased capacity comes at a cost, though. The website reports that each increase in battery size raises the price by $10,000. Before federal tax credits, that means a 60-kWh Model S will run approximately $77,400.
But the first 1,000 Model S vehicles produced will have an even steeper asking price. Cars.com reports that these vehicles—part of Tesla's special Signature series—will run around $105,400, as they'll be equipped with a 300-mile-range battery.

Sticker Shock: Some of the Most Expensive Hotel Suites

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AppId is over the quota
The Penthouse Suite at The Joule -- Dallas

When even the prices of the standard rooms at some of our favorite luxury hotels shock us, you can only imagine our heart palpitations when we see the nightly rates of these hotels’ top-of-the-line suites. But if we were going to splurge on anything in life, it’d probably be a stay at one of these suites. After all, they’re priced high for a reason; they are some of the most beautiful spaces we’ve ever seen, with stylized decor, all of the high-tech amenities anyone could want, and extra services for the lucky guests who can afford to book one of these spots. So would you prefer a brand-new car or a one-night stay at the most expensive suite at The New York Palace? Our photos after the jump may make you think twice »

The Penthouse Suite at The Joule -- Dallas

The Price: $7,400/night

Our Favorite Feature: The Joule is one of the coolest — and most luxurious — hotels in Downtown Dallas and it has a penthouse to match. This multi-level suite, with two bedrooms, features over-the-top amenities such as a fireplace, a martini station, and gorgeous photography by artist Bram Tihany. But we gotta say, the bathroom takes the cake; we love the black-and-white floor mosaic, the open vibe, and the staggering views of downtown from the deep soaking tub.

See more photos of the penthouse suite at The Joule »

The Royal Suite at The New York Palace

The Price: $22,000/night

Our Favorite Feature: One of New York’s most visually stunning hotels, the New York Palace has a gilded, grandiose style, huge rooms, a luxe spa, and a fantastic gym. Its Royal Suite is among the most opulent — and expensive — suites in the City, with lavish Louis XV decor. The suite’s highlight is that it includes butler service.

See more photos of Royal Suite at The New York Palace »

The Penthouse Suite at the Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona

The Price: $7,800/night

Our Favorite Feature: The 98-room Mandarin Oriental is one of the most luxurious hotels in Barcelona, and certainly has one of the most recognizable hotel brand names in the city. The gorgeous penthouse features two bedrooms, three bathrooms, a kitchen, and a cool, sleek design. But our favorite features are the massive double balconies, overlooking Passeig de Gràcia.

See more photos of the penthouse at the Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona »

The Royal Suite at the Four Seasons Washington D.C.

The Price: $15,000/night

Our Favorite Feature: Located in the historic neighborhood of Georgetown, the Four Seasons hits the high notes with luxuriously appointed rooms, a Michael Mina restaurant, a massive tri-level fitness center, and exceptional service from a devoted staff. It’s Royal Suite, with wood paneling, a gas fireplace, and an enormous outdoor terrace, showcases why the Four Seasons is the top luxury option in Georgetown and one of the best in the city. The best part? The suite even has its own small gym with two cardio machines with personal TVs, so no more having to work out with the rest of the 1% in the hotel’s fitness center.

See more photos of the Royal Suite at the Four Seasons Washington D.C. »

The Presidential Suite at the Montage Beverly Hills

The Price: $9,000/night

Our Favorite Feature: This 201-room luxury hotel located in the heart of upscale Beverly Hills is elegant in every way, from the Spanish Colonial-inspired architecture to the perfectly manicured courtyard to the presidential suite. The spacious marble bathroom is a highlight but the real cherry on top is that guests of the suite are given a Mercedes-Benz to drive during their stay.

See more photos of the presidential suite at the Montage Beverly Hills »

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Tagged as: Barcelona, Beverly Hills, Dallas, Luxury Hotels, New York City, Presidential Suites, Washington D.C.

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