Tesla introduces more affordable Model S and Model X options with reduced driving ranges

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【Summary】Tesla has introduced new "Standard Range" variants of the Model S and Model X, priced at $78,490 and $88,490 respectively. These versions have shorter ranges and slower acceleration than the base models, but are $10,000 cheaper. It is unclear if the battery packs are different or if they are simply software-locked. Buyers will need to pay extra for customization options and Tesla's Autopilot and Full Self-Driving features.

FutureCar Staff Aug 16, 2023 11:33 PM PT

Tesla introduces more affordable Model S and Model X options with reduced driving ranges

Tesla has introduced new versions of its Model S and Model X vehicles that are more affordable than the base and Plaid models. These new offerings, called "Standard Range" variants, are expected to be delivered in the US from September to October this year. The Model S Standard Range is priced at $78,490, while the standard Model X is listed at $88,490. These prices do not include any potential savings from EV tax credits.

Compared to the base models, both the Model S and Model X Standard Range have shorter ranges. The Model S Standard Range has a range of 320 miles, while the base variant can go over 80 miles further with its 405-mile range. The new Model S also takes 3.7 seconds to accelerate from zero to 60 mph, compared to 3.1 seconds for the base version. Similarly, the new Model X has a range of 269 miles, shorter than the base variant's 348 miles, and takes 4.4 seconds to reach 60 mph, compared to the base version's 3.8 seconds.

It is unclear whether Tesla is using different battery packs for these new releases or if it is simply software-locking the packs of its longer-range EVs. If it is the latter, there is a possibility that Tesla may offer customers the option to unlock longer ranges in the future for an additional cost. The Standard Range EVs are available in Pearl White with an all-black interior, standard wheels, and steering wheel. Additional charges apply for different colors, customizations, as well as Tesla's Enhanced Autopilot ($6,000) and Full Self-Driving Capability ($15,000) features.

For current Tesla customers, there is an opportunity to transfer the Full Self-Driving feature to a newly purchased vehicle for free. However, this offer is only valid for customers who take delivery of a new EV between July 20th and September 30th, 2023. If buyers of the new Standard Range vehicles receive their cars after September, they may have to pay for Full Self-Driving again, even if they already have it in their current Tesla EV.