Tesla takes deposits via Alipay

Customers of US electric car manufacturer Tesla have been allowed to pay the deposits on its two models on its official website through Alipay, China's largest third-party payment service provider, since Thursday.

Tesla buyers can choose to pay their deposits at the carmaker's outlet, through wired remittance or by Alipay. The deposit for the Tesla Model S is 15,000 yuan (US$2,400), and that for the Model X is 30,000 yuan.

Alipay said consumers can use online banking services to complete payments of large sums, in response to some buyers who voiced concerns that online payment curbs would make such payment difficult.

Alipay confirmed its partnership with Tesla Motors Thursday but it declined to comment on rumors that parent Alibaba will seal more tie-ups with the carmaker.