American drivers have long been loyal to their gas-guzzlers, but that may be changing. MotorTrend bestowed its prestigious 2013 Car of the Year Award on the Tesla Model S, a wholly electric-powered car.
The Model S is the first car to win the award sans a combustion engine. Previously, the Toyota Prius and the Chevrolet Volt won the award, both of which operate on a combination of electric batteries and gasoline.
In announcing the award, MotorTrend didn't skimp on the praise. "It drives like a sports car, eager and agile and instantly responsive. But it's also as smoothly effortless as a Rolls-Royce, can carry almost as much stuff as a Chevy Equinox, and is more efficient than a Toyota Prius. Oh, and it'll sashay up to the valet at a luxury hotel like a supermodel working a Paris catwalk. By any measure, the Tesla Model S is a truly remarkable automobile."
The 11 judges on the MotorTrend panel were unanimous in their decision choose the Model S.
Priced between $49,900 and $97,900, depending on options, the Model S is a premium sedan, competing with Porsche, Lexus and BMW.
It plugs into an electrical outlet to recharge, rather than refuel. Recharging times vary, depending on the type of adapter and outlet used, but typically plugging in the vehicle overnight will recharge the battery, which has an EPA-rated range of 265 miles.
The award is a vindication for Tesla, which was having financial difficulties as recently as September of 2011. During the presidential campaign, Mitt money referred to the company as a "loser," lumping it together with failed solar-energy company Solyndra. Both Tesla and Solyndra received federally-subsidized loans.
While a nearly-300 mile range, the Model S is ideal for commuters, but anyone looking to take a cross-country trip, or even drive from Los Angeles to San Francisco, will need a way to recharge on the road.
Tesla is building "supercharging" stations in California and Nevada, which will be able to fill the battery to half-capacity in about 30 minutes.
The company plans to build 100 charging stations around the country by 2015.