Tesla begins delivering 'Model 3' car for masses

Tesla began delivering on a dream to make an electric car for the masses, rolling out its "Model 3," aiming to disrupt a world accustomed to automobiles powered by pollution-spewing fossil fuel.

An initial batch of the 'Model 3' cars that rolled out of the Tesla plant in Fremont, California late Friday were given to customers, most of whom were employees of the company.

Tesla founder and chief Elon Musk proclaimed it a great day for the company, saying the goal was to make a terrific electric car "that everyone can buy."   

Musk starred in a delivery ceremony at the plant, driving onto an outdoor stage in a red Model 3.

"It's the best car for its cost, either electric or gasoline," he said.

Production of the electric car aimed at the broader market -- with a starting price of $35,000 -- will ramp up quickly, according to Musk, with 100 in August and 1,500 or more in September.     

Tesla aims to produce 5,000 units of the Model 3 a week this year, and 10,000 units a week in 2018.

"Welcome to production hell," Musk quipped to the enthusiastic crowd of workers at the event.

"That is where we are for at least six months."   

He stressed that there are thousands of parts from suppliers around the world that come together to make each car, and that production could stumble if any component is delayed.

Anyone ordering a Model 3 now was advised not to expect delivery until late next year.

Musk has mentioned in Tesla earnings calls that while early models were packed with innovative engineering, they caused vexation on the assembly line.

The Model 3, he said, was designed from the outset with mass production in mind to push down cost and crank cars out quickly.