DETROIT -- Tesla Motors unveiled the Model S chassis and body at the 2011 North American International Auto Show. It will eventually become a full-sized electric sedan. Production is expected to begin in early 2012 with a base price of $57,400. It should have a driving range of 160 miles when fully charged. The Model S will go from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds. Larger battery packs will be available with driving ranges of 230 and 300 miles. However, those prices have not been announced yet.

"It's going to be a 4-door, seven passenger premium sedan," said Camille Ricketts, Communications Manager for Tesla Motors. "This car is still in development. What we really wanted to do at this show is emphasize our vehicle engineering capabilities. This structure really shows how strong, how powerful this car is going to be. We wanted to get under the skin and show everyone what it can do. It's going to go 300 miles on a charge, that's almost three times other electric cars that are coming out or plan to come out."

The normal charging time will range between three to five hours. A 45-minute DC fast charge will be possible when connected to a 480-volt outlet. A dead battery can be switched out with a fully-charged battery in less than five minutes.

"In 2012 when production starts, our first production run is estimated to be about 20,000 units," Ricketts added. "The interior is going to be extremely roomy. Because the battery pack lies flat along the running board of the car, it leaves the entire interior of the car for open space and cargo. It's going to be extremely spacious and comfortable. As far as the exterior goes, it's going to be an extremely beautiful car. It's going to be premium sedan all the way."

The Tesla Model S will compete with the BMW 5-Series. It will be manufactured in Fremont, California in a partnership with Toyota.

I think the Model S is a cool car. However, it is definitely out of my price range. It will cost just below $58,000 and will come with a three-year leasing option. I think the Model S will put more people behind the driver's seat of Tesla electric cars, since it is about half of the price of the Roadster.