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

Home > Industry Analysis > Content

【Summary】Tesla has introduced more affordable "Standard Range" variants of the Model S and Model X, priced at $78,490 and $88,490 respectively. These new versions have shorter ranges and slower acceleration compared to the base models, but are $10,000 cheaper. It is unclear whether these models have different battery packs or if the range is software-limited. Buyers can expect delivery in September to October and may have to pay extra for additional features and customizations.

FutureCar Staff Aug 28, 2023 11:59 PM PT

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

Tesla has recently introduced new variants of its Model S and Model X vehicles that are priced slightly lower than the base and Plaid versions. 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. It's important to note that these prices do not include any potential savings from EV tax credits.

Compared to the base versions, both the Model S and Model X Standard Range have shorter ranges. The Model S Standard Range has a range of 320 miles, whereas 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, while the base version achieves the same speed in 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. The new Model X also takes 4.4 seconds to reach 60 mph, compared to the base version's 3.8 seconds.

It remains unclear whether Tesla has developed new battery packs specifically for these Standard Range vehicles or if it has simply software-locked the packs of its EVs with longer ranges. If it's 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 currently available in Pearl White with an all-black interior, along with standard wheels and steering wheel. Buyers can choose other colors and customizations, but these will come at an extra cost. Additionally, Tesla's Enhanced Autopilot ($6,000) and Full Self-Driving Capability ($15,000) features are available as optional upgrades.

For current Tesla customers, there is a limited-time offer to transfer Full Self-Driving to a newly purchased vehicle for free. This offer is 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 take delivery after September, they may have to pay for Full Self-Driving again, even if they already have it in their current Tesla EV.