Tesla launches ‘Standard’ Model 3 and Model Y — lower price, fewer features
Tesla today introduced two ‘Standard’ trims: the Standard Model 3 starting at $36,990 and the Standard Model Y starting at $39,990. Both are listed with an EPA-estimated range of about 321 miles on a full charge.
Key details
- Price: Model 3 Standard — $36,990; Model Y Standard — $39,990
- EPA range: ~321 miles (Tesla listings)
- Drive: Rear-wheel drive only (no AWD)
- Driver assistance: No Autopilot or Autosteer on these Standard trims
- Interior/features: Reduced trim levels — only front-row heated seats, no second-row touchscreen, no AM/FM radio
Tax-credit context
The US federal EV tax credit effectively ended for many buyers on September 30. Without the $7,500 federal incentive, the new Standard trims work out to roughly $2,000 more in effective cost than the comparable ‘Premium’ spec would have at last week’s prices.
What this means
These Standard trims lower Tesla’s sticker price below the $40,000 mark, making new Teslas more accessible on paper — but the cuts to features and the loss of a federal rebate reduce the real-world savings. Buyers should weigh which features they value versus the lower upfront price.
Sources & further reading
Would you compromise on driver assists and interior features to save on the sticker price? Let us know in the comments.