WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Bob Corker (R-TN), member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, rode in a prototype of the fully electric Tesla Roadster on Capitol Hill Thursday. Developed by Tesla Motors, the vehicle is a 100 percent electric sports car with an energy efficiency equivalent of 135 miles per gallon and can travel from 0 – 60 mph time in about four seconds.

"My ride in the Tesla Roadster further convinced me that it is possible to produce a reliable, energy efficient electric car without losing the performance or style Americans value in an automobile," Corker said.  "While fully electric vehicles remain too costly for many Americans, I'm convinced with time this technology can become more affordable. 

"America's long-term economic and national security depends upon our ability to pursue alternative sources of energy.  I commend Tesla Motors and others who are leading innovation in the automotive industry that will help reduce our country's dependency on foreign sources of oil."

Listed below are some of the Tesla Roadster's specifications:

  • 0 to 60 mph in about 4 seconds
  • 200 mile EPA highway range
  • 135 mpg equivalent, per the conversion rate used by the EPA
  • $3 for a full charge
  • Fully DOT-compliant: crash tested, with airbags, crash structures, etc. 

 

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