Tesla developed the lithium-ion battery-powered Model S electric car, launched in 2012.
The Model S was Tesla’s second production vehicle, following the Roadster. It was designed as a premium electric sedan with a long driving range, rapid acceleration, and software-controlled features, helping electric cars gain wider public attention.
Tesla was founded in 2003 by Martin Eberhard and Marc Tarpenning. Elon Musk joined as an early major investor and became chairman before later serving as chief executive. The company also produces Model 3, Model X, and Model Y vehicles.
Tesla is sometimes described only as a car manufacturer, but it also develops battery storage products, charging infrastructure, and solar-energy products. Its market value has often reflected expectations about future electric-vehicle production, autonomous driving, energy storage, and software as well as current vehicle sales.