How Much Does a Tesla Cost? The Price and Advantages of Each Model

July 26, 2023

By Lennon Cihak

Tesla offers a variety of models and prices, ranging from the Model 3, all the way up to the Model X Plaid.

Tesla

With gas prices soaring and EVs becoming more affordable than ever, it could not be a better time to purchase an electric vehicle. Tesla is leading that charge in terms of performance, technology and affordability.

The Austin, Texas-based automotive company has built a strong product that sells itself and recently became the most popular car worldwide. Tesla currently produces five different models, including the Model S, Model 3, Model X, the Model Y, and the Tesla Semi. The Tesla Cybertruck will join the mix later this year, and the new Roadster is expected to begin production next year.

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The cost of a Tesla will range from $40,000 to almost $140,000, depending on the model and options. But before we get into the actual upfront and ownership costs, it’s helpful to understand Tesla’s mission: Accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable energy.

Tesla’s Mission and Master Plan

On August 2nd, 2006, co-founder and CEO Elon Musk published a blog post outlining Tesla’s master plan. It was simple:

Build a sports car (Tesla’s first-gen Roadster)
Use that money to build an affordable car (Model S, and later Model X)
Use that money to build an even more affordable car (Model 3 and Model Y)
While doing the above, also provide zero emission electric power generation options (Solar Roof, Solar Panels, Supercharging, Powerwall, Megapacks)

Tesla is now working toward their Master Plan Part 3.

What is The Cheapest Tesla Model?

The price for a Tesla ranges greatly depending on the model and upgrades you add. At the time of this article’s publishing, the Model 3, which comes in at $40,240 (before taxes and incentives) is the most affordable.

In June 2023, Tesla announced that all Model 3 variants in the United States are eligible for the $7,500 tax credit. This was due to the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, which expanded certain EVs to receive a federal tax credit of up to $7,500.

In addition to Federal tax incentives, many states offer additional incentives to EV owners.

Model 3

The Tesla Model 3

Tesla

The Tesla Model 3, introduced in 2017, revolutionized the electric vehicle market by making cutting-edge technology and sustainable transportation more accessible to the masses. As Tesla's entry-level sedan, the Model 3 combines sleek design with impressive performance and an exceptional range of up to 333 miles, making it a compelling choice for those who prefer a smaller, nimble vehicle.

With seating for five passengers and a spacious interior, the Model 3 provides comfort without compromising on style. Its minimalist yet futuristic interior features Tesla's signature touchscreen infotainment system and a host of advanced driver-assistance features, including Autopilot. The Model 3's affordability, eco-friendly credentials, and thrilling driving experience propelled it to become one of the best-selling electric cars worldwide, showcasing Tesla's commitment to accelerating the global shift towards sustainable and emission-free transportation.

Model 3 Standard Range

Price: $40,240
Range: 272 miles
Weight: 3,862 lbs
Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive
0-60mph Speed: 5.8 sec
Top Speed: 140 mph

Model 3 AWD (All-Wheel Drive)

Price: $47,240
Range: 315 - 333 miles
Weight: 4,034 lbs
Drivetrain: Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive
0-60mph Speed: 4.2 sec
Top Speed: 145 mph

Model 3 Performance

Price: $51,640
Range: 315 miles
Weight: 4,048 lbs
Drivetrain: Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive
0-60mph Speed: 3.1 sec
Top Speed: 162 mph

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The Model 3 Performance also comes with the Performance Upgrade package:

Increased top speed from 135mph to 155mph
21’’ Überturbine Wheels
Performance Brakes
Lowered suspension
Aluminum alloy pedals
Carbon fiber spoiler

Model Y

The Tesla Model Y

Tesla

The Tesla Model Y, introduced in 2020, represents a compelling addition to Tesla's lineup of electric vehicles. As a compact all-electric SUV, the Model Y combines the best of the Model 3 sedan's platform with the versatility and practicality of their higher-end Model X. Offering seating for up to seven passengers and a spacious cargo area, the Model Y is designed to accommodate families and adventure-seekers alike.

With its sleek and modern design, the Model Y exudes an air of sophistication while boasting impressive performance capabilities, including rapid acceleration and an impressive electric driving range of up to 330 miles on a single charge. Tesla's commitment to cutting-edge technology is evident in the Model Y, with features such as the expansive touchscreen infotainment system and advanced driver-assistance features like Autopilot. As an integral part of Tesla's mission to accelerate the world's transition to sustainable energy, the Model Y represents a compelling choice for those seeking a versatile, affordable, and high-performance electric SUV.

Model Y Standard Range

Price: $47,740
Range: 279 miles
Drivetrain: Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive
0-60mph Speed: 5 sec
Top Speed: 135 mph

Model Y Long Range

Price: $50,490
Range: 330 miles
Weight: 4,386 lbs
Drivetrain: Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive
0-60mph Speed: 4.8 sec
Top Speed: 135 mph

Model Y Performance

Price: $54,490
Range: 303 miles
Weight: 4,439 lbs
Drivetrain: Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive
0-60mph Speed: 3.5 sec
Top Speed: 155 mph

Who is Model Y For?

Tesla's Model Y is designed for families, practicality seekers, urban dwellers, commuters, crossover enthusiasts, tech enthusiasts, environmentally conscious consumers, and those seeking a blend of luxury and performance. It offers the practicality of a compact SUV, advanced technology, electric drivetrain benefits, and a versatile driving experience to meet the diverse needs and preferences of a wide range of consumers.

Model Y is one of the best-selling vehicles in the world. The price comes in a couple thousand more than Model 3. Model Y comes with more front and rear headroom, legroom, an optional third row, and 34.3-cubic-foot in cargo space.

What is The Most Expensive Tesla Model?

The most expensive vehicle Tesla makes is its 2.7-ton SUV, the Model X. Model X Plaid with Ultra Red paint and 22-inch turbine wheels, among other additions and customizations, drifts in at more than triple the price of the base Model 3 at $133,990. The Model X being one of Tesla’s most luxurious vehicles comes with high-end features, including ventilated seats, more cargo room, a towing package for up to 5,000 pounds, additional seating options, 325+ miles of range, and mind-altering performance with a 0-60 mph speed in 2.5 seconds.

Model X

The Tesla Model X

Tesla

Tesla Uberturbine Wheel Covers

These Uberturbine wheel covers for the Model 3 and Model Y cost a fraction of new wheels and help improve range.

The Tesla Model X, introduced in 2015, represents a groundbreaking milestone in electric vehicles. The Model X boasts a falcon-wing door system, providing easy access to its spacious interior, which can comfortably seat up to seven passengers. Powered by Tesla’s state-of-the-art Autopilot system, panoramic windshield, and industry-leading infotainment system further elevate the driving experience. With a price range typically starting from $98,000 to $134,000, the Tesla Model X caters to discerning consumers seeking both sustainability and luxury on their commutes.

Model X (base)

Price: $98,490
Range: 348 miles
Weight: 5,185 lbs
Drivetrain: Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive
0-60mph Speed: 3.8 sec
Top Speed: 149 mph

Model X Plaid

Price: $108,490
Range: 333 miles
Weight: 5,390 lbs
Drivetrain: Tri-Motor All-Wheel Drive
0-60mph Speed: 2.5 sec
Top Speed: 149 mph

Who is Model X For?

Tesla's Model X caters to a diverse range of consumers, including families, adventure enthusiasts, tech enthusiasts, luxury seekers, and environmentally conscious individuals. It addresses their specific needs by providing ample space, impressive performance, advanced technology, luxurious features, and a sustainable driving experience.

The Model X comes with additional luxurious features when compared to Tesla's other models. These include cooled seats, air suspension, falcon-wing doors, auto-opening and closing doors, better noise isolation, a premium noise-canceling sound system, premium materials, an instrument cluster, and a rear screen.

Model S

The Tesla Model S

Tesla

The Tesla Model S, launched in 2012, remains a groundbreaking electric sedan that continues to set the standard for innovation and luxury in the automotive industry. As Tesla's flagship vehicle, the Model S combines elegant design, exceptional performance, and advanced technology.

With its sleek and aerodynamic exterior, the Model S not only stands out on the road but also achieves remarkable electric range, thanks to its cutting-edge battery technology. Inside the cabin, passengers experience a refined and spacious environment, complemented by Tesla's signature 17-inch touchscreen infotainment system and an array of premium features. The Model S accelerates with astonishing speed, demonstrating the capabilities of electric propulsion while maintaining a smooth and silent ride.

Tesla has continuously updated the Model S with over-the-air software updates, improving performance and adding new features, further solidifying its reputation as an industry-leading electric vehicle. As one of the pioneering electric cars, the Model S exemplifies Tesla's dedication to sustainable transportation, leaving an indelible mark on the automotive landscape.

Model S (base)

Price: $88,490
Range: 405 miles
Weight: 4,561 lbs
Drivetrain: Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive
0-60mph Speed: 3.1 sec
Top Speed: 149 mph

Model S Plaid

Price: $108,490
Range: 396 miles
Weight: 4,766 lbs
Drivetrain: Tri-Motor All-Wheel Drive
0-60mph Speed: 1.99 sec
Top Speed: 200 mph

Who is Model S For?

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Tesla's Model S is designed for electric vehicle enthusiasts, performance seekers, luxury car buyers, technology enthusiasts, eco-conscious consumers, and business executives. It offers a seamless blend of technology, performance, luxury, and sustainability, making it an appealing choice for those who seek an extraordinary electric driving experience.

The Model S also comes with more luxurious features when compared to the Model 3 and Model Y. These include cooled seats, air suspension, auto-appearing door handles, better noise isolation, a noise-canceling premium sound system, premium materials, an instrument cluster, and a rear screen.

It’s worth noting that Tesla changes its pricing frequently. All the above models were priced with the free paint, standard interior and wheels, and basic Autopilot.

Cybertruck

The Tesla Cybertruck

MatthewDR/Twitter

Tesla’s Cybertruck, unveiled in 2019, is a testament to the company’s push toward automotive and electric vehicle innovation. It’s promised to be loaded with newer tech and nearly impenetrable because of its ultra-hard 30x cold-rolled stainless steel exterior. In addition to its advanced technology, Cybertruck will include a large shatterproof windshield and ultra-durable rear bed.

Its expected to be available in three variants, ranging from a single-motor RWD version, all the way up to a tri-motor AWD verison. The estimated EPA range is 250-500 miles with a 0-60 mph time of 2.9 - 6.5 seconds.

Tesla will begin Cybertruck deliveries this year, with volume production being achieved in 2024.

Semi

The Tesla Semi

Tesla

Originally unveiled in November 2017, Tesla Semi is designed to innovate the semi-truck market. Designed to have more than three times the power of a standard diesel truck, a range of up to 500 miles, and a 1,000 horsepower motor the size of a football, Tesla Semi provides true innovation for long-haul transportation.

The first bunch of Semis was delivered to PepsiCo in late 2022 at a delivery event, where its nickname, “The Beats,” was presented.

“[It has] three times the power than any diesel truck on the road right now,” Dan Priestley, Senior Manager of Tesla’s Semi Engineering, said at the time. “So you’ve got all the power you need to get the job done, but the other reason that it’s a beast is because it is efficient. You can go 500 miles on a single charge on one of these things. It’s the mix of those two—this is a game-changer. What’s awesome is both of those are enabled by our 1000-volt powertrain. This is the first vehicle we are with that.”

First-Gen Roadster

Tesla’s original Roadster began production in 2008. It was a big milestone for the company because it was their first production vehicle. Prior to the Roadster, Tesla only produced a prototype of the vehicle to generate interest and secure funding.

The Roadster was based on the Lotus Elise, a lightweight, two-seat sports car. Tesla worked with Lotus to develop the Roadster in order to tap into Lotus’ expertise in vehicle manufacturing. The final product borrowed the Elise’s chassis, but the vehicle's custom drivetrain, battery system, and body were entirely unique.

When it was originally released, it had a base price of $98,950 with later versions of the vehicle reaching a sticker price of $120,000.

Next-Gen Roadster

The New Tesla Roadster

Tesla

Tesla’s Next-Gen Roadster will be a marvel of automotive engineering, shattering barriers and pushing the laws of physics. Information about the Next-Gen Roadster has been sparse since its unveiling in 2017 alongside Semi, but CEO Elon Musk has stated the production of the Next-Gen Roadster will begin in 2024.

Next-Gen Roadster Specs

According to Tesla’s website, the Roadster will be capable of going 0-60 mph in 1.9 seconds, a 620-mile range, and a top speed of more than 250 mph. Similar to the Cybertruck, it’ll be loaded with Tesla’s state-of-the-art safety features, all-wheel drive, and designed for unrivaled performance and aero efficiency.

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Furthermore, in classic Tesla and Elon Musk fashion, the Roadster will have an optional SpaceX Package, which would increase the vehicle’s performance even further. Musk confirmed that with this package, 0-60 mph could be achieved in mere 1.1 seconds.

Tesla Model S Refresh Spotted With Front Bumper Camera at Nürburgring [PHOTOS]

May 21, 2025

By Karan Singh

CarScoops

Carscoops, which keeps a close eye on racetracks around the world for new models in testing, has spotted what appears to be the refreshed Model S at Nürburgring in Germany. Tesla is testing out the new Model S, which is likely a Plaid, on the track. Tesla was taking this new Model S for some laps around the track, which serves as an excellent testing ground for high-performance vehicles like the Model S Plaid.

The updated Model S was seen wearing some white and black camouflage over the front and rear, but from the photos that were provided, the changes appear to be relatively minimal and focused on aerodynamics, at least on the exterior.

Not a Juniper-Level Refresh

Tesla’s VP of Engineering, Lars Moravy, mentioned that Tesla was working on updating the Model S and Model X. However, he didn’t quite say just how much of a refresh was on its way. Lars’ comments were very general, and he didn’t mention any details.

Based on what we’ve observed at the ‘Ring,’ this Model S refresh doesn’t appear to be a full-blown Model Y Juniper level refresh, which included a light bar, new headlights, and other substantial changes to the rear and front of the vehicle.

New Front Bumper Camera

At first glance, the front fascia looks remarkably similar to the existing Model S, but there are a few key differences.

First up is the addition of a new lower lip spoiler mounted at the very bottom of the front bumper. These spoilers help to improve aerodynamic efficiency and downforce at high speeds, which is entirely appropriate for a vehicle that thrives on tracks like the Nürburgring.

On the other hand, the distinctive headlights and eyeliner-style running lights appear to remain intact, keeping the overall look of the front relatively similar. Tesla has kept the black space with the Tesla logo at the front of the vehicle. While it’s difficult to tell on the front shots, you can tell it’s still there from the side shots.

Another little item was the return of the front bumper camera. Tesla is shipping both the refreshed Model Y and the Cybertruck with a bumper camera, so it isn’t surprising to see this, but it is one of the best indications that this is a new vehicle being tested.

Can you spot the little nub with the bumper camera?

CarScoops

Wheels & Brakes

The prototype was spotted sporting some new alloy racing wheels that bear a distinctive resemblance to the Photon wheels that ship with the Model 3. If you take off the aero covers from the Photon wheels, they look exceptionally similar. This seems relatively odd, as Tesla’s top-end performance wheels are usually distinctively different from other wheel options.

We also saw the currently-available Arachnid wheels on the same Model S being tested, on the way to and from the track. Tesla likely switched out to these new wheels to test their performance and handling characteristics on the track.

The original Arachnids on this Model S tester

CarScoops

Rear End

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From the available images, the rear end of this new test vehicle appears to be largely unchanged. The tail light design, bumper shape, and overall profile look essentially the same as today’s Model S, which means that Tesla’s work has likely focused on the front of the vehicle.

The rear diffuser looks a bit different, but seems essentially the same.

Not a Tesla App

What Else?

With the exterior changes appearing to be relatively minimal, it’s plausible that more significant updates could be found within the cabin. Tesla could be working on interior updates that help bring the new Model S more in line with the new Model 3 and Model Y.

A focus point for Tesla may be the Model S Plaid’s powertrain. The S Plaid used to hold several records, at least until the Lucid Air Sapphire and Rimac Nevera came along to steal the trophies. Tesla could be improving both the front and rear motors, as well as the other portions of the drivetrain needed to grab a podium finish once again, which would be just as exciting as Plaid+ being announced again.

Given the minimalistic changes to the exterior, it seems unlikely that Tesla has made drastic changes to the vehicle as a whole, though. We don’t expect this updated version of the Model S to launch with Steer-by-Wire or any of the other new technologies pioneered by the Cybertruck. Although Tesla says they will be used in future vehicles, even Juniper launched without these Cybertruck upgrades.

Tesla could still surprise everyone, as is their habit with vehicle announcements, but we’re expecting a slightly faster, slightly cooler-looking Model S at this point.

Side-on with the refreshed Model S

CarScoops

Musk Talks Robotaxi Details: Fleet Size, Teleoperators, Avoid Certain Intersections, Scaling and More

May 21, 2025

By Karan Singh

CNBC

In a live two-part interview with CNBC’s David Faber yesterday, Elon Musk laid out his ambitious near-term plans for Tesla’s Robotaxi Network and the broader rollout of Unsupervised FSD. Speaking from Giga Texas, Elon confirmed that Tesla will be launching its initial Robotaxi pilot service on Austin’s roads by the end of June 2025.

Tesla Already Testing Robotaxi With Safety Drivers

The upcoming Austin launch is the start of Tesla’s long-stated Robotaxi ambitions. After promising true FSD for years, it appears that Tesla is finally ready to debut it, albeit it’ll be closed to the public initially, and it will only be available on Tesla-owned vehicles for now.

Elon expressed confidence in that end-of-June timeline, revealing some of the extent they’ve gone to behind the scenes. Tesla has had test vehicles driving in Austin 24/7, currently with drivers in the cars. However, they’ve seen essentially no interventions required from the safety drivers during the testing phase, which is good news.

The initial deployment in Austin will be deliberately small to ensure that everything operates as expected.

"So we want to be very careful with the first introduction of unsupervised full self-driving, meaning that there’s the cars driving around with no one in it... Well, yes, and sometimes no one in it at all. Just going to pick someone up. So the car obviously has to be incredibly safe." - Elon Musk on CNBC

How the Robotaxi Network Will Operate

Musk said that Tesla intends to launch with just 10 Robotaxis for the first week and then slowly increase it to 20, 30, 40, and higher. All of that is to be done without a safety driver. Tesla will still have teleoperators supervising the vehicles remotely if they get stuck, but other than that, they will be in motion without an occupant in the driver’s seat.

The goal is to hit 1,000 active Robotaxis within a few months and then focus on expansion towards San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Antonio. While Tesla could start with 1,000 or 10,000 - given that the initial vehicles are just Model Ys, Tesla wants to keep a tight leash on the fleet and make sure that both the safety and experience are up to snuff.

Geofenced and Avoid Certain Intersections

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To further increase safety during the early phases, Elon confirmed that Tesla will geofence the Robotaxis' operational areas within Austin, limiting them to parts of the city where Tesla has the highest confidence in the system's performance. He stated they would avoid intersections unless the system is proven to handle them well, or route around them. While the goal is for the cars to operate without safety drivers, there will be rigorous remote monitoring of the fleet's activities.

Looking at the broader regulatory picture, Elon acknowledged the current complexities, with rules varying by state and even by city. He reiterated his call for a "unified set of national regulations" for self-driving vehicles in the U.S. to ensure consistency and prevent a confusing patchwork of differing rules as vehicles travel across jurisdictions.

This seems to be a great idea, at least initially. Autonomous cars will be safer if they adhere to the same rules everywhere rather than having different rule sets based on the state. However, one issue is that pedestrians and human-driven vehicles may expect the vehicles to either perform or refrain from certain actions, such as not turning right at red lights, and having different rules for self-driving vehicles could cause confusion.

Adding Your Vehicle to the Robotaxi Network

During the interview, Elon painted a picture of a rapidly expanding fleet of privately owned Teslas capable of unsupervised FSD. He offered a bold prediction for the near future:

"My prediction is that probably by the end of next year [end of 2026] we will have probably hundreds of thousands, if not—... Over a million Teslas doing self-driving in the U.S. ... Unsupervised full self-driving, where you do not need to pay attention." - Elon Musk on CNBC

Tesla eventually plans to allow vehicle owners to add or subtract their cars from the Robotaxi fleet, creating a model he likened to a combination of Uber and Airbnb. This would allow owners to generate revenue when their vehicle isn’t being used, with Tesla receiving a portion of the revenue.

He also mentioned that Tesla owners will likely even make more from their cars participating in the fleet than their lease costs. Elon seemed confident in Tesla's ability to manage the logistics, stating, "Tesla has all the ingredients necessary to offer a vast self-driving fleet overnight."

Elon on Vision-Only and Licensing FSD

Elon also took the opportunity to emphasize that Tesla’s approach to autonomy, based on vision, is the ideal approach. The road system is designed for humans with eyes, so using neural nets with cameras is the ideal solution.

"Because the way that the road system is designed is for AI. It’s basically, I should say, it’s for intelligence, biological neural net, and eyes. That’s how the whole road system is designed. So what will actually work best for the road system is artificial intelligence, digital neural nets, and cameras... And what we found is that, when you have multiple sensors, they tend to get confused. So do you believe the camera or do you believe lidar? - Elon Musk on CNBC

While Tesla previously included radar in its vehicles, the disagreements between the radar and camera data led to uncertainty, prompting Tesla’s engineers to turn the radars off instead. The decision wasn’t about the expense, as per Elon’s comments, but rather on the reducing utility of other sensor types when camera vision becomes more accurate.

Elon also confirmed that Tesla is "very much open" to licensing its FSD technology to other major automakers and is currently in discussions with several. "The more we demonstrate the capability of self-driving, the more that they will want to license it, and we’re happy to help," he added.

Optimus and Learning

While the interview primarily focused on Tesla’s ambitions for autonomy, Elon also touched on other key aspects of Tesla’s business and future. He reiterated that Optimus and autonomy will “overwhelmingly” dominate the future financial success of Tesla. At multiple Earnings Calls, Elon has said much the same, so it's not surprising to see him stick to this belief.

Elon provided more color on Optimus's development, noting that while achieving the goal of billions of humanoid robots is at least a decade away, even with insatiable demand. He reaffirmed that the target of producing a million robots by 2030 was still reasonable. The training process is evolving; currently, human operators in motion capture (MOCAP) suits perform basic tasks (picking up objects, opening doors, dancing) to bootstrap the robot's intelligence.

The next threshold, Elon explained, is for Optimus to learn from watching videos, like YouTube "how-to" guides, enabling dramatic "task extensibility." Following that, "self-play," where robots learn by interacting with objects, like a child with toys, guided by a reward function, will be key.

Within five years, Tesla envisions Optimus being capable of household chores like doing dishes, walking the dog, and even proactively understanding and fulfilling user needs. This level of AI advancement requires immense compute. Elon confirmed Tesla's own Dojo training program, based in New York, is contributing, though Tesla will continue to buy many GPUs from Nvidia.

Watch the CNBC Interview

FULL ELON INTERVIEW ON CNBC (PARTS I & II)

Here's the complete, consolidated interview of Elon Musk with David Faber, recorded yesterday in two parts at Giga Texas. (The second part starts at 23:54)

Timestamps:

0:17 Robotaxi launch in Austin
1:29 Ramping up Tesla Robotaxi… pic.twitter.com/OEtrlLNnLo
— ELON CLIPS (@ElonClipsX) May 21, 2025