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Nov 13, 2008 10:00 AM
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When a customizer like BRABUS "tunes" a car, we expect more power, better handling, unfortunate chintzy gadgets and gimmicky styling. In the case of the BRABUS-tuned Tesla Roadster, a car they claim is the first ever tuned electric car, it's just the chintzy gadgets and gimmicky styling. The German tuner shop may be the first to take on the Tesla Roadster, but with no added power, no added acceleration and no changes to the suspension, we're unfortunately left with merely taking in the breathtaking addition of a "space sound generator." That's right, press the pedal and instead of a quiet whoosh of power, you get a simulated V8, simulated race car, and "two futuristic soundscapes named ‘Beam’ and ‘Warp.'" What? Yes, seriously. Hit the jump for more.
Add to the spacey sound track a truly silly marketing line of "space lights" known to the rest of the world as "under body neon," a classy lightning bolt logo below a yet even classier rear spoiler on the back, new leather interior and leather floors and you have a vehicle truly fit for Captain Kirk.
World Debut at the Essen Motor Show 2008
The Very First Tuned Electric Car Comes From BRABUS:
BRABUS Customization Program for the Tesla RoadsterThe first tuned electric car comes from BRABUS: The first project of the future cooperation between Tesla Motors, Inc. and the new BRABUS business division Zero Emission celebrates its world debut at the 2008 Essen Motor Show. BRABUS (Brabus-Allee, D-46240 Bottrop, phone + 49 / (0) 2041 / 777-0, fax + 49 / (0) 2041 / 777 111, Internet www.brabus.com) presents an exclusive customization program for the Tesla Roadster, the world’s first electrically powered production sports car.
The new BRABUS logo with added lightning bolt is the trademark of BRABUS Zero Emission vehicles.
To give the sports car a more exciting sound the BRABUS electronics specialists have developed a ‘space sound generator.’ The occupants on-board the Tesla Roadsters can choose from several simulated engine sounds including that of a typical V8 combustion engine, a racecar engine and two futuristic soundscapes named ‘Beam’ and ‘Warp.’ The volume of the sound is dependent on the momentary power output of the electric motor.
A custom-tailored BRABUS tire/wheel combination further improves handling characteristics. The two-seater is refined with weight-optimized BRABUS Monoblock S light-alloy wheels in size 7Jx18 in front and in size 8.5Jx19 in back. BRABUS technology partner Pirelli provides the corresponding P Zero Nero high-performance tires in size 215/35 ZR 18 in front and in size 255/30 ZR 19 on the rear axle. These tires were developed to deliver minimum rolling resistance.
The two-seater also receives an even more striking exterior at BRABUS. The customization measures include a special high-quality ‘matte white’ paintjob. To give the mid-engine sports car an even more enticing face the BRABUS designers treat the front apron to a lightweight carbon-fiber front lip and daytime running lights integrated into the front grille. Matte-white surrounds for the headlamps add interesting detail to the overall effect.
The sides of the Tesla are upgraded with BRABUS entrance lights shaped like futuristic space lights. They are activated with the keyless fob or by pulling on a door handle. BRABUS carbon-fiber air inlets add even more sporty flair. Immediately apparent in the rear are the BRABUS rear wing and the BRABUS rear diffuser, both made from light yet extremely strong carbon fiber. The round taillights are accentuated further by matte-white applications.
The BRABUS customization program for the Tesla Roadster also includes exclusive interior options. The range of products starts with scuff plates with illuminated BRABUS logo. They are integrated into the top of the rocker panels.
The company-own BRABUS upholstery shop masterfully handcrafts exquisite custom interiors for the Tesla. The designers chose a combination of especially soft yet durable BRABUS perforated lightweight leather and Alcantara. The cockpit features white seams to reflect the exterior color. The vehicle floor is also upholstered with lightweight leather for added exclusivity.
The goal of the BRABUS customization concept for the Tesla Roadster is to define a potential limited edition as well as an individual tuning program for the Tesla driver.
For additional BRABUS information please visit our web site at www.brabus.com
[Source: BRABUS]
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