- Tesla Model 3 and Model Y Standard with rear-wheel drive and up to 517 km EPA are arriving in the US.
- Base prices: $36.990 (Model 3) and $39.990 (Model Y), with deliveries between November and January.
- Equipment cuts to reduce costs, but the digital ecosystem with a 15,4" display remains.
- Europe still has no date or prices; the configurator continues with the previous RWD versions.
The movement that many were waiting for is finally here: Tesla has unveiled in the United States the versions Standard Model 3 and Model Y, designed to lower the access price without touching the essential technical basis. It's not the legendary $25.000 Tesla, but it is a step closer to a cheaper Model 3 and Model Y. which intensify the pressure on the segment.
the american brand seeks to strengthen itself against rivals from ChinaWith these variants, Tesla reduces entry costs in exchange for equipment adjustments, while maintaining its software and connectivity ecosystem. In Europe, for now, there is no confirmation of dates or rates.
What the new Model 3 and Model Y Standard offer
Both models are positioned as gateways to the range with a simple approach: a single rear-mounted engine (RWD), good efficiency figures and an EPA-approved range of 321 miles (517 km). In performance, the Model 3 Standard claims 0–60 mph in 5,8 s and the Model Y Standard in 6,8 s, with a maximum speed of 201 km/h in both.
Base prices in the United States are $36.990 for the Model 3 y $39.990 for the Model YAccording to the configurator, the first deliveries are planned between December and January in the Model 3 and between November and dicember in the Model Y. The difference compared to the immediately superior versions is around $5.000.
In terms of exterior design, there are no radical changes. The focus is on optimizing costs without altering the architecture. In the Model Y, however, they are noticeable. separate headlights instead of a continuous light bar of the higher versions. Tesla has not yet detailed specific batteries or motors, and is limited to highlighting the high efficiency of the set.
The technological part continues to be one of the hooks: central screen of 15,4 inches with access to Tesla Theater and Tesla Arcade, features like Sentry, Dog and Camp, trip planning and control the car from the appThe company has also highlighted the integration of AI solutions, such as Grok, within its software ecosystem.
Equipment: Where Tesla cuts corners to lower the price
To achieve a more affordable price, Tesla is applying a clear strategy: material adjustments and removal of comfort elements which, without affecting safety or the technical basis, allow manufacturing costs to be contained.
- The rear screen 8-inch present in higher versions.
- The back seats are no longer heatable; the front ones keep heating.
- El steering wheel adjustment It becomes manual and some controls are simplified.
- Suspension with most basic idiot and reduction of the sound system compared to Premium finishes.
- In certain US specifications, the requirement is waived. AM/FM radio; its endowment may vary by market.
Beyond these scissors, the core of the Tesla experience remains: the software, the charging and the route planning with integration into the infotainment system. That means fewer extras, but the brand's same digital approach.
Prices, autonomy and availability by market
In the United States, the picture is clear: $36.990 (Model 3 Standard) y $39.990 (Model Y Standard), with official EPA ranges of 517 km and deliveries starting between the end of this year and the beginning of the next. Tesla has not released figures adapted to the European WLTP cycle.
In Europe—and specifically in Spain—the configurator does not yet reflect these versions. As of today, the known rear-wheel drive variants are shown: Model 3 RWD for €39.990 and the Model Y RWD for €44.990, without Standard designation or significant equipment changes.
If they are finally launched in our market, it is reasonable to expect a price step below the current RWDs. With eventual commercial campaigns and aids such as the MOVES Plan (if they were in force), the final ticket could drop substantially, approaching figures that, with financing and scrapping, some media estimate under €25.000These are possible scenarios, not confirmed by the brand.
It is worth remembering that in the US the attractiveness of the price may be affected by the disappearance of the federal tax credit $7.500, which alters the effective cost to the customer. In Europe, the fit will depend on local incentives and the final equipment Tesla approves here.
Strategy and Competition: Why Now?
The launch comes at a particularly competitive time in the market. Brands such as BYD, Hyundai, Nissan or General Motors They have expanded their electric offering in the mid-price range, and pressure in Europe is also growing with the entry of Chinese manufacturers and adjustments by traditional groups.
For Tesla, these variants seek gain volume at a lower cost without developing a completely new model. It's not the so-called "Model 2" project, but rather a way to reinvigorate the price/performance ratio of two bestsellers while maintaining the software experience and focus on efficiency.
In design, the Model Y Standard shows visible changes in the front light signature and a selection of wheels more focused on aerodynamics, while the mechanical assembly focuses on simplicity and consistency. Tesla, for its part, avoids going into battery details and promises units “extremely efficient”.
It remains to be seen how this movement will translate in Europe and what impact it will have on the actual purchase price once local incentives, brand campaigns and other measures are applied - or not. approved equipment for our market.
The picture left by the advertisement is clear: Tesla offers a Model 3 and a more affordable Model Y in the US, with 517 EPA km, rear engine, and a selective cut in extras to adjust the price. The arrival in Europe is still pending confirmation, but if it materializes, it could reorder the segment based on aid and promotions current, maintaining the focus on efficiency and software as the main arguments.
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