It’s tough enough for the Big Three to attempt a recovery under today’s challenging economic conditions, let alone respond to new competitive threats nipping at their heels like electric auto maker Tesla. Tesla kicked it up a notch yesterday with the debut of its sleek Model S, an all-electric four-door sedan; here’s the video:
 
Retail on this vehicle is $57,000; after government tax credit, net price is $49,000. Edmunds provides more stats:

– Range: approximately 300 miles
– Fast charge capability: 45 minutes
– Battery pack can be swapped out in less time that it takes to fill a typical gas tank
– 0-to-60mph in less than 6.0-seconds. Top speed: 135mph
– Approximate weight: 4,000 pounds
– Aluminum body panels
– Single speed transmission
– 7-passenger capacity via two rear-facing seats in the cargo area

What do you think? Would you pay $49,000 for this vehicle?