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BOUNTIFUL -- It's quick, stylish and as fuel efficient as can possibly be: the Tesla Roadster, an electric sports car, will soon be on display at a Bountiful car dealership.
The car runs on groundbreaking technology that we'll likely see much more of in the future, but if you want to own one of these now, it will cost you more than $100,000.
"It's just really a phenomenal car, and the speed and the power of it is just amazing," said Kent Phippen, owner of Go Motors in Bountiful.
Phippen plans to show off the car at his eco-friendly dealership's one-year anniversary. The vehicle actually belongs to a friend, but Phippen hopes to educate the public on its purely-electric technology.
"This one also requires no maintenance, no oil changes," Phippen said. "They say all you're going to have to replace is brakes and tires."
The Roadster is powered by a large rechargeable battery, a small motor about the size of a watermelon, transmission and power electronics module. With its carbon-fiber body and 100 percent torque, this sports car goes zero to 60 in just 3.9 seconds.
"Aston Martin DB9, Porsche 911, Ferraris, I mean it's fast," Phippen said.
California-based Tesla Motors claims the car can drive about 220 miles and charges in three and a half hours. It uses no gas, no emissions; the maintenance comes out to pennies per mile and the convenience is similar to that of a household appliance.
"It's just like coming home and plugging your cell phone in," Phippen explained.
The car will be on display for Go Motors' anniversary celebration on June 27.
E-mail: wjohnson@ksl.com
