The $35K Tesla Model 3 Is Finally Available

Way back in 2016 when the Tesla Model 3 was first revealed, CEO Elon Musk promised a starting price of $35,000. After nearly three years, the base Model 3 is finally available to order. The base—or standard, as Tesla calls it—Model 3 starts at $36,200, including $1,200 destination charge, and comes with an estimated range of 220 miles.

To help get it down to the promised $35,000 starting price, Tesla simplified the features on the standard Model 3. Inside, you’ll find manually adjusted cloth seats, “base” trim, a basic audio system, and a basic navigation system. The only exterior color available at no charge is black (all others will run you an extra $1,500-2,500), and black is apparently the only available interior color. You do still get a tinted glass roof with the standard model, however, along with four USB ports in the center console. The single-motor standard Tesla Model 3 is estimated to hit 60 mph in 5.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 130 mph.

Another way Tesla was able to bring the price down was by switching exclusively to online sales. Soon, the only way you’ll be able to purchase a Tesla will be through your phone or a computer. Tesla says by doing this it will be able to lower prices across its lineup by 6 percent on average. As a result of the switch, many Tesla stores will begin winding down operations over the next few months. A “small number” of stores located in high-traffic areas will be converted to galleries, showcases, or information centers, the company says. According to Tesla, going online-only will allow customers in all states to buy a Tesla “quickly and easily.” In a conference call with the press, Tesla said online sales circumvent franchise laws, which have dogged the company ever since it first rolled out its direct sales approach.

In addition to the standard Model 3, Tesla also announced a Model 3 Standard Range Plus, which gets a 240-mile and more premium features for $38,200. That car is said to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 5.3 seconds and do a top speed of 140 mph. Tesla says the standard model and the Standard Range Plus have battery packs with fewer cells rather than being limited by a software lock. The Standard Range Plus gets “premium” seat material and trim, an upgraded audio system, LED foglights, and a center console with docking for two smartphones.

There’s a lot to unpack here, so stay tuned as we update this post with more details.

Tesla Model 3 Performance pictured.

Source: Tesla

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