Tesla Model X SUV gets an entry-level 70D version

[nggallery id=2192 template=customlinks]

The Tesla Model X electric SUV was officially revealed in September, with just a range-topping 90D version. But now Tesla are to launch a more affordable 70D version.

When Tesla revealed the production version of the Model X SUV back in September, all that was on offer was the 90D with 510bhp and a 0-60mph of 4.8 seconds, or the even more expensive P90D with a frankly barking 751bhp and a 0-60mph of just 3.2 seconds.

It looked like Tesla were only going after the top end with the Model X being offered only in its most potent incarnations, but Tesla has now revealed there will be a more affordable version on offer too – the Tesla Model X 70D.

The Model X 70D will get a 70 kilowatt-hour battery pack and deliver enough performance to get the not exactly small electric SUV to 60mph in 6.0 seconds, and offer a range (if you’re gentle with your right foot) of 220 miles.

Whether the 70D was always planned or not we don’t know – and there’s still no confirmation it will come to the UK and Europe – but the threat of upcoming cars like the electric Audi Q6 – a production version of the e-tron Quattro Electric Concept – must make Tesla a little concerned about protecting their market.

The Tesla Model X will start deliveries in the US at the start of 2016, with the range-topping P90D costing from $132,000, with the 70D arriving later and costing from $80,000. So far, there are no prices for the Model X in the UK, but as it’s unlikely to arrive here for another year Tesla are in no hurry.

But as the Model X costs around $5k more than the Model S in the US, it seems reasonable to expect the Model X 70D to costs around £60k in the UK, and the range-topping P90D around £100k.