Tesla introduces more affordable Model S and Model X options with reduced range

Home > Industry Analysis > Content

【Summary】Tesla has introduced new "Standard Range" variants of its Model S and Model X vehicles, priced at $78,490 and $88,490 respectively. These variants have shorter ranges compared to the base models, with the Model S offering a range of 320 miles and the Model X offering a range of 269 miles. It is unclear if these variants have different battery packs or if the range is software-limited.

FutureCar Staff Aug 17, 2023 9:41 AM PT

Tesla introduces more affordable Model S and Model X options with reduced range

Tesla has introduced new versions of its Model S and Model X vehicles that are more affordable compared to their base and Plaid counterparts. These new offerings, known as "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. It's important to note that these prices do not include any potential savings from EV tax credits specific to the buyer's location.

Notably, both the Model S and Model X Standard Range vehicles are $10,000 cheaper than the base versions. However, they do have shorter driving ranges. The Model S Standard Range has a range of 320 miles, while the base variant can travel over 80 miles further with its 405-mile range. Additionally, the new Model S takes 3.7 seconds to accelerate from zero to 60 mph, compared to the base version's 3.1 seconds. Similarly, the Model X Standard Range has a range of 269 miles, which is shorter than the base variant's 348 miles. It also takes the new Model X 4.4 seconds to reach 60 mph, compared to the base version's 3.8 seconds.

It remains unclear whether Tesla is using specially made battery packs for these new releases or if they are simply software-locking the packs of their EVs with longer ranges. If it's the latter, there may be a possibility for customers to unlock extended ranges in the future, potentially for an additional cost. The Standard Range EVs are currently available in Pearl White with an all-black interior, along with standard wheels and steering wheel. Buyers can choose to pay extra for different colors, customizations, and Tesla's Enhanced Autopilot ($6,000) and Full Self-Driving Capability ($15,000) features.

For existing Tesla customers, there is an option to transfer the Full Self-Driving feature to a newly purchased vehicle at no additional cost, but with certain conditions. This one-time offer is only valid for customers who take delivery of a new EV between July 20th and September 30th, 2023. However, if buyers of the new Standard Range vehicles receive their cars after September, they may need to pay for Full Self-Driving again, even if they already have it in their current Tesla EV.