Tesla has cut the price of its US refreshed Model Y electric SUV by discontinuing the range-topping Launch Series. The only model Y sold in this country is the Long Range All-Wheel Drive (AWD) at $48,990, destination and taxes included. This is a whopping $11,000 cheaper than the $59,990 that earned the now-simmered Launch Series.
The Launch series was introduced a month ago as part of the revamp for the Model Y lineup and contained a lot of luxury amenities. Standout features among the top-of-the-range trim were Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (Supervised) system, vegan suede inside trim, specific badging, and luxury features. But you can now find that Tesla has quietly pulled the model from the US website and replaced it with a simpler and cheaper option instead.
The latest standard model, the Model Y Long Range AWD, keeps Tesla in the performance and range leader’s circle while stripping out some of the features that are no longer deemed a must for that price. It seems to be a tactical decision given the modifications in the market conditions and the downturn of the global sales.
Performance and Range Still Impressive
Since the Long Range AWD comes without Full Self-Driving (FSD) by default, an $8,000 upgrade will allow for it, or go for the subscription. As for performance, the new Model Y variant is no slowpoke. It goes 0-60 mph in just 4.6 seconds—only 0.5 gets up the Launch Series’ 4.1-second sprint. Although Tesla won’t say the horsepower or torque is down, specs for the similar Dual Motor Long Range variant from Europe suggest they take around 370 horsepower and 363 lb-ft of torque.
The range remains a strong point. With 19-inch all-season tires, the Long Range AWD has an EPA-estimated range of 327 miles. Going for the bigger 20-inch wheels cuts the range to 303 miles. This makes the SUV one of the best power-efficient electric SUVs in its class.
Tesla also provides a range of additional optional extras to improve the ownership experience. Such as $1,000 for tow equipment, $240 for all-weather interior floor mats, $35 for center console trays, and $500 roof rack. Still, the overhauled Model Y does not yet offer a seven-passenger configuration—a thing many families might be hoping for in future versions.
Moreover, the Long Range AWD Model Y is eligible for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit, which reduces the effective starting price to just $41,490 for eligible buyers. This places the electric archback in a very competitive price point, accordingly directed because of performance, range, and full charge to the strong network Transporter’s Accelerator.
Sales Challenges
The Model Y has been Tesla’s top seller and was even briefly named the world’s best-selling car, irrespective of fuel. However, recent trends suggest that Tesla is under pressure, including slow sales and competitive pressure in the EV industry. Along with that brings public sentiment towards CEO Elon Musk’s antics has suffered among a few owners who have traded in their Teslas in protest.
Even with the decline in sales, Tesla’s decision to unveil a more affordable Model Y may revive consumer enthusiasm. By pricing the entry point somewhat lower, yet keeping up the impressive performance, range, and tie to federal tax credits, the Long Range AWD version might find a wider audience.
As Tesla gets back on track in a shifting EV landscape, the end of the Launch Series and the introduction of a more affordable Model Y is a return to what first made the company exciting in the first place: innovative technology, performance, and substance at a relatively unapologetic price. Only time will tell if this change aids Tesla in regaining ground in a very tough market.
