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The company launched the Model Y SUV at a starting price of £39,990, while the Model 3 saloon will begin at £36,990—making both models considerably more affordable than their current, higher-end counterparts.
The new versions, labelled “Standard,” can travel up to 516 kilometres (320 miles) on a single charge. However, their acceleration is slower than the “Premium” variants.
According to Tesla’s website, both models are now open for pre-order, with deliveries planned between December 2025 and January 2026 across various markets.
The newest lower-cost models lack several advanced features available in higher trims. They do not include the “Autosteer” driver-assistance system or rear passenger screens.
Tesla also removed the LED light strip from the more affordable Model Y. The interiors feature fabric seats (with optional leather seats for the Model 3) and manually adjustable side mirrors, highlighting Tesla’s cost-cutting approach.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has long promised to make electric vehicles more affordable for a broader audience. However, last year he abandoned plans for a brand-new $25,000 EV model and chose instead to launch cheaper versions of existing cars.
This decision has sparked concerns among investors and analysts that cheaper models may erode sales of higher-end versions and limit growth potential. After the announcement, Tesla’s shares dropped 4% before Wall Street trading closed.