Tesla draws big names in drive for sales

The United States-based electric vehicle producer Tesla Motors Inc has become the most dazzling superstar in China this week, not only by taking the fancy of the public but also by attracting willing cooperation from local industry leaders.

Chinese customers will be able to make a deposit for a Tesla car through Alipay, the electronic payment service affiliated with Alibaba Group Holding Ltd, according to both parties' websites.

A representative of Alibaba Group said no other information could be disclosed at this stage, but analysts said cooperation may go much further in the future as regards e-commerce.