Tesla has finally launched its cheaper Model 3 electric vehicle as promised by the founder Elon Musk. The rear wheel drive Model 3 Standard Range starts at $35,000, becoming the least expensive “long range” fully electric vehicle available in the market.
The Tesla Model 3 Standard Range offers 220 miles of range and has the top speed of 130 mph with the capability to reach from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds.
An upgraded variant Tesla Model 3 Standard Plus has also been announced which starts at $37,000 and delivers the range of 240 miles.
The Plus variant comes with a “partial Premium” interior having power seats, improved audio system, and vegan synthetic leather among other upgrades.
According to Tesla’s official website, the delivery of the new Tesla Model 3s will take about two to four weeks. Those who are interested in purchasing the newer models will be offered a 7-day or 1,000 miles trial period.
Customers will get to experience the electric vehicle without any cost as a full refund will be provided upon returning the car.
“Quite literally, you could buy a Tesla, drive several hundred miles for a weekend road trip with friends and then return it for free,” said the official post announcing the cheapest Tesla Model 3.
The cars are equipped with autopilot mode but to get it functional before delivery, customers need to pay an additional $3,000. If the customers want the autopilot mode after the car has been shipped, they need to shell out $4,000.
Additionally, Tesla also announced that it is shifting completely to an online sales model in order to achieve financial sustainability. This means that Tesla will shut down its offline retail stores in the US leading to layoffs of employees.
Is the cheaper Tesla Model 3 the beginning of a segment of electric vehicles that is within reach of normal (read: not filthy rich) people? How do you think it will change the electric vehicles industry? Tell us in the comments below.
