Tesla has announced that a customer in Europe will be the first person to receive a Tesla Model S outside of North America. In a rather interesting turn of events, it appears that Tesla sold the first Model S (a Signature Edition) to a gentleman in Norway who, if you can believe it, also bought the first electric car imported into Norway back in 1989.
The Tesla Model S Signature Edition was delivered to Norwegian Frederic Hauge, who was quoted shortly after delivery as saying, “As Europe’s first owner of the Tesla Model S, I am very proud to be a pioneer.”
Back in the early ’90s, Hauge would intentionally drive his electric car through toll booths without paying. It was his way of protesting the fact the Norwegian government was charing him to drive his electric vehicle. Amazingly, after a few years of doing this on a regular basis, the government changed its stance.
Electric vehicles no longer have to pay tolls in Norway. Apparently you can thank Frederic Hauge for that. Who knew?
You can see a triumphant Mr. Hauge in the images provided by Tesla after being given the red carpet treatment for his delivery.
As a quick reminder, the top of the range Tesla Model S produces an impressive 416hp and 600Nm of constant torque due to its rear-mounted electric engine.
