Tesla debuts in Shanghai amid delivery controversy

Tesla delivered six electronic vehicles and unveiled its charging station in Shanghai on Wednesday amid a mix of fanfare and complaints over its CEO's first visit to China.

The U.S. electronic vehicle maker's debut in Shanghai rounds up CEO Elon Musk's trip to China that has witnessed the unveiling of two charging stations in Beijing and Shanghai and a first batch of cars delivered to anxious Chinese buyers.

It also came a day ahead of the China (Shanghai) International Technology Fair, where Tesla will showcase its stylish electronic sedan and offer test drives.

A total of 12 Tesla Model S cars were delivered at ceremonies in Shanghai and Beijing on Wednesday and Tuesday respectively, but only to some of its high-profile buyers, such as top Internet executives. Tesla said more orders are on their way to customers from the two cities.

However, some Chinese customers who pre-ordered the Model S but are not from Beijing and Shanghai are excluded from the first batch of delivery and have sought legal actions against the firm for the delay.

Tesla has cited the lack of charging facilities as the reason behind its decision to hold delivery to these customers on a later date. The two charging stations in Beijing and Shanghai each have six charging posts powered by solar panels provided by Chinese solar equipment maker Hanergy.

Musk has said during his visit to Beijing that he wants to make a huge investment China, including plans for a network of charging stations in more cities.