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

Home > Industry Analysis > Content

【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 are $10,000 cheaper than the base models but have shorter ranges and slower acceleration. It is unclear if the battery packs are different or if the ranges are software-locked. Buyers can unlock longer ranges for an additional cost.

FutureCar Staff Aug 16, 2023 6:29 AM PT

Tesla introduces more affordable Model S and Model X options with reduced 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 between September and October of 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 travel 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 the base version's 3.1 seconds. Similarly, the Model X Standard Range 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 has developed new battery packs specifically for these Standard Range vehicles or if it is simply software-locking the packs of its EVs with longer ranges. If it is the latter, there may be an opportunity for customers to unlock longer ranges in the future for an additional cost. The Standard Range EVs are available at the mentioned prices in Pearl White with an all-black interior, along with standard wheels and steering wheel. Additional charges apply for other colors, customizations, and Tesla's Enhanced Autopilot ($6,000) and Full Self-Driving Capability ($15,000) features.

For current Tesla customers, there is an option to transfer Full Self-Driving to a newly purchased vehicle for free. However, this offer is only valid for new EVs delivered between July 20th and September 30th, 2023. Since the Standard Range vehicles may be delivered after September, buyers should be aware that they may need to pay for Full Self-Driving again, even if they already have it in their current Tesla EV.