The Tesla Roadster Takes Off
The PEM and ESS of the Tesla Roadster (the motor lies below the PEM)
This weekend I was lucky enough to attend the New England Auto Show at the Boston Covention and Exhibition Center, where a host of shiny new cars (including some hybrid versions of existing models) were on display. The one that I was most excited to see and most disappointed not to be able to sit in was the Tesla Roadster. The much-talked-about electric sports car was on display with Ferraris, Maseratis, Lamborghinis, Lotuses, and Aston Martins in a small section devoted to exotics in the middle of the exhibition floor. One of the models they had on display had the hood and the trunk open, revealing some of the inner workings of the car. (left)
The Power Electronics Module (PEM), which "control[s] the motor and allow[s] for integrated battery charging," was visible, as well as the Energy Storage System (ESS), which normal-speaking people call a battery pack. The electric motor sits under the PEM in a rear mid-engine, rear-wheel drive configuration, so I couldn't get a good look at it, but the Tesla website has an interesting page that shows the layout of the Roadster as well as some additional information if you want to learn more.
Although I didn't get to sit in it or hear it running, Reuters featured a short video on Friday that shows the Roadster being started up and driven off. Take a look and enjoy!
Sources: Reuters; Tesla
December 10th, 2009 - 12:28
Will the Telsa Roadster also have a Telsa Coil attached to the roof of the car for “defensive driving”?
December 10th, 2009 - 13:25
Hahaha I think in the hands of most drivers, a car like that would be a tool for offensive driving, myself included