The Model S is on a tour of Tesla’s North American showrooms that started this week. This is much more than just a peek under the hood of the company’s next-generation sedan. 

The lady isn’t shy – she’ll be baring it all on a tour of Tesla’s North American showrooms that started this week. This is much more than just a peek under the hood of the company’s next-generation sedan. Every component of the Model S’s electric drivetrain is on display, including the motor, battery pack and rear drive unit. The dealerships also feature interactive touchscreen displays and virtual design studios where buyers can customize their own cars.

The model S, which is scheduled to go on sale in mid-2012 at a price of around 50 grand, is being billed as “not the best electric car, but the best car of any kind.” The automotive striptease tour is intended to let drivers see the superiority of Tesla's EV architecture for themselves – the flat, floor-mounted battery improves rigidity and handling, and the lack of an internal combustion engine makes the Model S stronger and safer.

"Tesla stores are designed to let people explore and learn about Tesla's technology for themselves," said Tesla VP George Blankenship. "You'll never see a 'Don't Touch' sign in a Tesla store. We want everyone — from kindergartners to grandparents — to come in and see for themselves why driving electric is the future."

Images: Tesla