Dubai - Here is why Tesla's UAE launch is a significant event
Published: Sat 18 Feb 2017, 3:01 PM
Updated: Sun 19 Feb 2017, 9:35 AM
Earlier this month, Tesla's launch in the UAE made headlines after weeks of speculation. The brand, known for manufacturing electric cars is set to open their first showroom along Sheikh Zayed Road - and orders for the cars have already started to pour in.
One of the first customers was Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority that ordered 200 Tesla Model S and Model X vehicles, which will be added to Dubai Taxi Corporation's limousine fleet. Other than this, the UAE's first two supercharger stations - to recharge the cars' batteriess, were opened at Dubai's Last Exit and in Abu Dhabi's Masdar City.
But what exactly is a Tesla car and why is it important to the UAE? Here are all the things you should know about the brand's arrival in the country.
They launched two cars here
Tesla launched both their flagship models here: the Model S and Model X. The Model S is an electric luxury sedan. Its bigger brother, the Model X is a crossover SUV. According to reports, prices start at Dh275,000 for Model S and Dh344,000 for Model X. Those are both cheaper than Dubai's favourite Nissan Patrol.
First customer: Tesla's already sold 200 cars in Dubai - guess the buyer...
Prices: Now, buy a Tesla in UAE for Dh275,000 onwards
They don't need petrol
Tesla cars pride themselves for running completely on electricity. Think of it as a smartphone on wheels - plug it in, and it 'charges' itself. Both cars can travel more than 500km before they need recharging. What petrol station again?
You can charge them around UAE
Since the launch, Tesla already has active charging stations in Abu Dhabi's Masdar City and Dubai's Last Exit near Jebel Ali. These superchargers differ from charging at homes as they can charge the cars in mere minutes. Just enough time for you to grab some 'karak' chai.
'Driverless' road trips
The Tesla Model S and Model X - as well as their upcoming models boast of state-of-the-art technology that enables them to drive on their own. The company still encourages users to keep their hands on the wheel as nothing beats being able to control your own car.
It can save lives
Their models have sensors so that the cars apply safety measures ahead of accidents. We're pretty confident that it can help you avoid those Dubai motorists who suddenly hit reverse when they missed their exit. Don't believe it? Check this link out.
Watch: Tesla car 'predicts' accident before it even happens
Sound-free cruising
via GIPHY
Being electric cars, Tesla cars don't produce any sounds, revs, anything. Though nothing is stopping you from making supercar sounds as you cruise your way around Jumeirah Beach Road.
It's fast - very fast
via GIPHY
Using either one or two motors depending on the cars specs, they can take off quickly. A Tesla Model S can go from zero to 60 in a mere 2.5 seconds. Just for reference, a Lamborghini Aventador takes 2.9 seconds to do the same.
E-Paper
Sign In
0°C 
