Tesla Model X: SUV pricing details revealed

Speaking at a Tesla store opening in London, Musk said the Model X would be priced “very similarly to the Model S”, which currently starts at US$64,200 ($65,600). Although he did not reveal the final sale price of the SUV, he said the price increase would be the value of a “low single-digit percentage”.

Musk also confirmed the Model X would be available in all-wheel-drive configuration only, contrary to earlier claims Model X buyers would be able to choose between all- and rear-wheel-drive.

Production of the Model X is set to begin in March, delayed from the originally planned date of the end of this year. Musk says he will personally deliver the first Model X, which has been ordered by a “high profile” buyer.

The three-row Tesla Model X was first revealed in February 2012, sporting ‘falcon wing’ roof-hinged doors similar to those on the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG supercar, and a choice of 60kWh and 80kWh batteries capable of propelling the dual-motor SUV from 0-100km/h in less than five seconds.

Interested Australian buyers can put down a deposit for the Model X now, despite the Californian car maker’s Model S, released in the USA in June last year, not having yet reached local shores. Tesla says it is accepting a $6000 deposit for the standard Model X, and a $40,000 deposit for the higher-spec Model X Signature.