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Tesla unveils cheaper versions of Model Y, Model 3: Unhappy fans ask Elon Musk to ‘do better’

In a tweet, Tesla announced that ‘Model Y Standard’ and ‘Model 3 Standard’ are the company’s “most affordable vehicles”.

Published on: Oct 8, 2025, 02:45:36 IST
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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".

Tesla tweeted about unveiling the ‘Model Y Standard’ and the ‘Model 3 Standard’. (AFP, X/@Tesla)
Tesla tweeted about unveiling the ‘Model Y Standard’ and the ‘Model 3 Standard’. (AFP, X/@Tesla)

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.”

Also Read: Hyderabad man performs vahan pooja for Tesla, internet calls it 'Ultimate crash test certification'

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:

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.”

Also Read: Elon Musk replies to Indian business tycoon who bought Tesla Model Y in Mumbai

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.

  • Trisha Sengupta
    ABOUT THE AUTHOR
    Trisha Sengupta

    Trisha Sengupta works as Chief Content Producer at Hindustan Times with over six years of experience in the digital newsroom. Known for her ability to decode the internet’s most talked-about moments, she specialises in high-engagement storytelling that bridges the gap between viral trends and traditional journalism. Throughout her tenure, Trisha has focused on the intersection of technology, finance, and human emotion. She frequently covers personal finance and real estate struggles in hubs like Gurgaon, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad, while also documenting the unique challenges of the NRI experience. Her work often highlights the movements and philosophies of global newsmakers and personalities like Elon Musk, Mukesh Ambani, Nikhil Kamath, Dubai crown prince, and MrBeast. From reporting on Amazon or Meta layoffs and startup culture to the emergence of AI-driven platforms like Grok and xAI, she provides a grounded and empathetic perspective on the stories shaping our world. When not decoding the internet, Trisha is likely offline: lost in a book, exploring a historical ruin, or navigating the world as a solo traveler. She balances her fast-paced career with family time and a healthy dose of curiosity, currently trading her "human" sources for silicon ones as she masters AI to future-proof her storytelling.Read More