Tesla announced its ‘Model Y Standard’ and ‘Model 3 Standard’, labelling them as the company’s “most affordable vehicles.” While a few were impressed by the debut, these new variants failed to impress most fans, who argued they would rather use a second-hand premium version than buy a cheaper Tesla model. Some X users claimed that the company should have launched a new range of affordable cars instead of variants of existing models. A few also tagged the company’s CEO, Elon Musk, urging him to "do better".
How did social media react?
An individual shared, “In 2020, Elon Musk promised a $25k EV and a deep EV lineup covering all segments. In the last 5 years, Tesla delivered the Cybertruck and a cheaper Model Y.”
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Another argued, “Tesla doesn't have a model that addresses the low end of the market. For example, here in New Zealand, I can buy a BYD at half that price. Tesla didn't need a slightly cheaper Y; they needed a whole new smaller model.”
A third posted, “The ‘Standard’ release for Model 3/Y is Tesla’s iPhone 5C moment. Musk, you can do better.” A fourth wrote, “I’m starting to think Tesla never planned a $25k car. The Model 3 and Y Standard trims are just a clever way to make us stop yelling for cheaper Teslas while keeping prices high and profits intact.”
Tesla’s tweet on new variants:
{{/usCountry}}A third posted, “The ‘Standard’ release for Model 3/Y is Tesla’s iPhone 5C moment. Musk, you can do better.” A fourth wrote, “I’m starting to think Tesla never planned a $25k car. The Model 3 and Y Standard trims are just a clever way to make us stop yelling for cheaper Teslas while keeping prices high and profits intact.”
Tesla’s tweet on new variants:
{{/usCountry}}In a post on X, the company shared, “Meet Model Y Standard & Model 3 Standard – our most affordable vehicles. Ultra-low cost of ownership, engineered for safety & comes with the best Tesla features you love.”
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Features included in the new variants:
“What's included: Entertainment on a 15.4" center touchscreen (Tesla Theater w/ streaming platforms, Tesla Arcade w/ video games). Integrated Grok AI. Convenience + safety features (Sentry/Dog/Camp Mode, Trip Planner, Cabin Overheat Protection). Tesla app (Phone Key, Preconditioning, Sentry Live Camera View...). Heated first-row seats — dual-tone, w/ textile & vegan leather + a heated steering wheel. Access to 70,000+ Superchargers globally,” the X post added.