How cool is this?

Tesla Motors unveils an electric roadster with 250 mile range with a claimed acceleration rate of 0-60 mph in 4 seconds. Apparently they accomplish that range partly by using regenerative braking, a technique long used in electric-motored railroad locomotives.

The car is reportedly scheduled for release in 2007. Unfortunately, its $80000-$120000 price tag puts it out of reach of most people, but with that kind of acceleration, it may appeal to the Ferrari/Porsche/Lamborghini set. And with any luck we mere mortals might be able to afford one in a few years.

I don't know anything about their financing arrangements. I hope they're secure, and that the Tesla roadster doesn't become the Tucker Torpedo of the 21st century.