Tesla Motors is opening its first European sales and service center in London. The first of three stores in Europe that the electric vehicle manufacturer plans to launch this year.

Tesla is also scouting sites in Munich (Germany) and Monaco. Tesla says it will begin delivering cars to European customers in late June. These cars will comply with all EU safety, environmental and durability regulations.

“We expect that Tesla sales will eventually be split evenly between the US and Europe,” said Tesla CEO, Chairman and Product Architect Elon Musk. “Opening three Tesla stores in Europe this year is a critical part of that plan.”

Greater London is a key customer market and premier showcase for Tesla – not only for the Roadster sports car but the Model S sedan, which Tesla expects to produce in 2011. The Model S, which will be among the world’s first mass-produced, highway-capable EVs, will carry five adults and two children up to 480 kilometers per charge.

Teslas qualify for a $7,500 US federal tax credit and enjoy incentives in several European countries and cities, including waivers of luxury tax, reductions in VAT, free parking and free charging. In London, Teslas are exempt from the congestion charge, a saving of up to £2,000 per year for commuters.

You’ll find the whole story in the press release.