This is not the first time we’ve discussed Tesla Motors’ entry plans into China, but it is the first time we’re able to show you photos of an actual Model S on The People’s Republic soil.
The black example that you see in this post’s opening shot is believed to be the very first one to ever be imported into the country, although we don’t believe it was brought in via an official source.
For all intents and purposes, it’s a bit of a grey market car now and its owner must have really wanted it, because it apparently cost him $410,500 / €298,600 for the privilege. Most of it is probably due to VAT and delivery charges on top of the regular price.
Besides, when Tesla does officially break the Chinese ice, they will be doing so under a different name, after a would-be speculator snagged up the local rights to use the company moniker. Its owner is a 24 year-old man from the city of Dongyang, who reportedly had it ordered from Hong Kong, and may make it part of the luxury wedding car rental service that he’s involved in.
We’re still waiting for a long-wheelbase version of the Model S, a variant which would make it so much more appealing in China. We tried our hand at making a quick mockup of what it could look like here.
By Andrei Nedelea
Story References: scmp and weibo
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