Tesla introduces new standard variants of the Model 3 and Model Y

Tesla has unveiled cheaper versions of its Model 3 sports saloon and Model Y midsize SUV in the USA. The US car manufacturer has thus revealed the secret of new vehicles with lower entry-level prices, which have been the subject of speculation for months. In the new “standard” variants, the main cutbacks have been made in terms of comfort features. Whether and when the two versions will also come to Germany is still uncertain.

The big surprise at the presentation was above all the cheaper version of the Model 3, as Tesla was expected to offer its SUV at a lower price. As a result, Elon Musk's company is now offering new vehicles from an entry-level price of 36,990 US dollars, the equivalent of around 32,000 euros. However, the entry-level prices are still a long way from the 30,000-dollar mark that Musk once fancied. Analysts also see the price offensive as an attempt to stand up to the growing competition, particularly from China.

Offsetting the loss of subsidies

Compared to the cheapest premium version, buyers of the Model 3 Standard save around 5500 US dollars. This is Tesla's way of partially offsetting the 7500 US dollar e-car subsidy (tax cut) in the USA that expired at the end of September. Many people in the USA took advantage of this tax break, which enabled Tesla to set a record for deliveries in the last quarter.

The range of the rear-wheel-drive vehicle is around 11.6 percent lower at 321 miles (502 km) compared to 363 miles (584 km) for the Premium model. Buyers also make concessions in terms of acceleration (5.8 seconds to just under 100 km/h instead of 4.9) and 15-minute fast charging at the Supercharger (170 instead of 195 miles range).

However, the differences are more noticeable in the equipment extras. The display in front of the rear seat is missing, as are an FM radio and ambient lighting. The steering wheel and exterior mirrors have to be adjusted manually. Heated seats are available in the front, but not in the rear. There is also no front seat ventilation. Finally, there are differences in the fabrics used in the doors, the autopilot functions, and the shock absorbers.

Headlights instead of the lightbar

The situation is similar for the Model Y Standard, which is available from 39,990 US dollars. This accelerates to just under 100 km/h (60 mph) in 6.8 seconds, while the Premium model achieves this in 5.4 seconds. In addition to the Model 3's compromises, the subwoofer is also missing here, a different center console is installed, and the vehicle has classic headlights at the front instead of the striking light bar, the LED light strip.

There are also indications that a standard version will be introduced in Germany. Handelsblatt reported on Monday that the Tesla plant manager in Grünheide, André Thierig, announced at an internal event that the construction and delivery of such a variant is to begin in a few weeks. Deliveries in the USA are due to start in November.

(mki)