Electric vehicle enthusiasts with a preference for pure luxury are preparing for the mid-2012 release of the Tesla Model S.

 

Tesla Motors’ first electric sedan will be available with three different battery packs. The base Model S, priced at $49,900 after the $7,500 federal tax credit, is equipped with a 160-mile range battery pack. For an additional $10,000, customers can upgrade to the 230-mile range option. The top of the line battery pack provides a 300-mile driving range for a $20,000 premium over the base model. Tesla plans to produce 5,000 units in 2012, and the automaker is currently accepting fully refundable reservations for the Model S sedan.