Tesla has recently unveiled a new line-up of affordable versions of their popular Model Y and Model 3 vehicles. Going by the names of Model Y Standard and Model 3 Standard, these models are designed to offer a more budget-friendly option for consumers, in an attempt to bolster sales and strengthen Tesla’s position in a highly competitive marketplace. These entry-level models are targeted at a wider demographic, aiming to appeal to those who may not have previously considered a Tesla due to the traditionally high price point. Alongside the introduction of these new models, Tesla has also rebranded the Long Range versions of these vehicles under the Premium label. Currently, these new models are only available in the US market.
The Tesla Model Y Standard brings a few changes from its other variants, including the removal of the light bars seen on the front of the higher-end models. This new, more affordable version also features 18-inch wheels. While the panoramic sunroof that is a feature of the higher-end Model Y variants is absent from this model, the color options have also been limited to just three: white, black, and grey.
This model lacks a few of the “luxury” features seen in its counterparts: the second-row screen, heated rear seats, and it comes with manual steering and side mirrors, as well as a 7-speaker setup instead of the 15-speaker unit seen on the other models.
However, performance has not been compromised, with the new affordable Model Y variant powered by a 69.5kWh battery capable of producing 300hp and delivering a range of 517 km on a single charge.
The Tesla Model 3 Standard also features 18-inch wheels as standard, with the option to upgrade to a 19-inch set. This model comes in a standard grey color, with customers having the option to choose a black variant for a premium price.
On the inside, this model lacks the rear touchscreen unit seen on other variants, but it does retain the panoramic sunroof found on the other Model 3 versions.
This model shares most of its configuration with the Model Y Standard, including the same 69.5 kWh battery pack, which claims to deliver a range of 517 km. However, the new variant is slightly slower than the Model 3 Premium RWD, achieving 0-100 kmph in 5.8 seconds.
Despite their reduced-priced cost and the omission of several sophisticated exterior and interior features, both the Model Y and Model 3 Standards retain Tesla’s core digital features, such as the 15.4-inch central touchscreen, Autopilot, and Sentry Mode, among others.
The Model 3 Standard has now positioned itself as Tesla’s most affordable sedan, with a new price point of around USD 36,990, a drop of nearly USD 5,000 from its previous starting price. The new Model Y Standard is priced at USD 39,990 in the US market.
What key features have been changed in the new Tesla Model Y and Model 3 standard variants?
Some luxury features have been removed or downgraded in these models to make them more affordable. These include removal of the light bars, panoramic sunroof and second-row screen in the Model Y Standard, and the rear touchscreen unit in the Model 3 Standard.
What is the performance capability of the new cheaper variants?
Both the Model Y and Model 3 standard variants are powered by a 69.5 kWh battery pack that can deliver a range of 517 km on a single charge. The Model 3 Standard can do 0-100 kmph in 5.8 seconds.
Are the Tesla Model Y and Model 3 Standard models still equipped with Tesla’s basic digital features?
Yes, despite their lower cost, both models still include key Tesla digital features, such as a 15.4-inch central touchscreen, Autopilot, and Sentry Mode.
