Electric car-maker Tesla has launched its long-awaited Model X, which has a “bio-weapon defence” system and double-hinged doors that open upwards.
It is the third vehicle produced by the firm, and was unveiled nearly two years later than originally planned.
The firm – which has yet to make a profit – said about 25,000 people had pre-ordered the car.
Analysts say the Model X should be a success because it will be seen as a status symbol.
“I think we got a little carried away with the X,” acknowledged Tesla’s chief executive Elon Musk at the launch in Fremont, California.
“There is far more there than is really necessary to sell a car.
“And some of the things are so difficult, they make the car better but the difficulty of engineering those parts is so high.”
One expert suggested the model filled a gap in the market.
