Tesla Model X reveal: Video, photos, pricing, and specs for one shocking SUV

LOS ANGELES— Last night at the design and engineering studio for Tesla Motors (TSLA), CEO Elon Musk revealed his company's next space-age creation. Dubbed the Model X, it's an all-electric crossover/sport-utility/category-defying vehicle that features dual-motor all-wheel-drive, three rows of seating for up to seven passengers, and roof-hinged rear "falcon wing" doors (named after the Falcon rocket from sister company SpaceX).

Based on the same platform as Tesla's electric Model S sedan that's slated for delivery to customers in July (and available with 60 or 85 kWh battery packs, which should deliver a range of 200 to 250 miles on a single charge), the Model X breaks new ground for EVs with its fore-and-aft motors. As for expected performance, Musk claimed that the Model X will accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds, which he noted is quicker than a Porsche 911. After taking a ride in a Model X prototype, I can confirm that it feels sporty even by sports car standards. The prototype was fast on straightaways and exhibited very little body roll while cornering, thanks to a low center of gravity imparted by the batteries' in-floor location.