The third vehicle from EV standard-bearer Tesla introduced itself to the world Thursday at the company’s Los Angeles design studio. 

The third vehicle from EV standard-bearer Tesla introduced itself to the world Thursday at the company’s Los Angeles design studio. 

The Model X Electric Crossover prototype is built on the same platform as the Model S sedan, which gives it a low center of gravity and plenty of available space – enough room for seven adults and plenty of gear, according to Tesla.

As you’d expect from any Tesla product, the Model X has several attention-grabbing features. The Falcon Wings – don’t call them “doors” – open upwards, and are designed to allow passengers to step in easily, even in a narrow parking space. 

An optional second motor gives the Model X all-wheel-drive capability, and increases torque by 50 percent. Zero to sixty mph in 4.4 seconds is enough juice to blow away any SUV on the road.

Compared to the Model S, the X weighs about 10 percent more, and will have about 10 percent less range. It will be available with either a 60 or 85 kWh battery pack. Tesla expects to begin production in late 2013, and start deliveries in early 2014. The price will be similar to that of the Model S, which starts at $57,400, but can end up north of 100 grand with all the goodies.

Images: Tesla