Tesla Confirms Model X Production in Early 2015

Tesla Motors Inc. confirms it will begin making prototypes of its Model X electric crossover vehicle this autumn and launch production early next year.

The company is taking online preproduction orders secured by a deposit of at least $5,000.

The seven-passenger Model X will use essentially the same platform and powertrain that carries the company's Model S sedan. Tesla originally planned to begin building the crossover late last year. It delayed the launch to work out supplier and production issues with its factory in Freemont, Calif., where the Model S went into production in June 2012.

The Model X features "falcon wing" doors that hinge along the centerline of the roof. Tesla CEO Elon Musk said in early 2012 that the model would have more interior room than an Audi Q7 crossover and be able to out-accelerate a Porsche 911 sports car.

Musk also indicated at the time that the Model X would be priced about the same as a comparably equipped Model S sedan, implying a price between $80,000 and $93,000.

Tesla has indicated in regulatory filings it expects to build the Model X in annual volumes of 10,000-15,000 units.