Tesla Forecasting $160 Million Lower Revenue Due to Model S

Just hours after announcing its revolutionary Supercharger electric car charging system, TeslaTeslaUnited States of America, 2003 > present4 models
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filed regulatory papers saying that it expected 2013 revenue to between $400 million and $440 million instead of its initial forecast of $560 million to $600 million. Tesla says that the loss is caused by the rollout of the Model S being roughly a month behind schedule. 

"We have methodically increased our Model S production at a rate slower than we had earlier anticipated. Certain suppliers have experienced delays in meeting our demand and we continue to focus on supplier capabilities and constraints," said the company in its Security and Exchange Committee Filing. 

Tesla has two more models that it is working on. The Model X crossover will come in 2013 and use the same platform and similar mechanicals as the Model S. A lower priced Tesla aimed at mass market consumers in also in the works for 2015.

Tesla blames its suppliers and own extensive testing on the Model S' delay. The car has not been wracked by the techinical problems that have plagued main competiror Fisker, but it has been slower to launch. Tesla says that suppliers have been slow to deliver it parts as well but is working to speed up deliveries. 

Tesla targetted sales of 5,000 Model S cars this year. It now believes that it will sell about 3,500 cars for the year. It has 13,000 pending reservations. Tesla charges $5,000 to reserve a car. 

Tesla expects to survive this rough patch. In addition to building the Model S, it is building electric powertrains for the Toyota Rav4Toyota Rav4 EVJapan, 2013 > present5 photos
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and helping DaimlerDaimlerGermany, 1889 > present12 models
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develop electric powertrains. 

Source: Automotive News