Tesla chief Elon Musk said that the automaker was preparing to sell the cheapest version yet of its newest electric car, the Model 3, maybe signaling an attempt to get back to business following months of controversy, writes The Washington Post.
Just released lower cost, mid-range Tesla Model 3 & super simple new order page https://t.co/cz0TQn7IOZ
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 18, 2018
Musk said that the sedan has a “mid-range” battery pack and would cost $35,000. However, the price takes into account federal and state tax rebates, according to The Post, and before discounts the car will go for $45,000. The company says buyers should think of the electric car as much cheaper, because of the money they will save on gas.
Costs $35k after federal & state tax rebates in California, but true cost of ownership is closer to $31k after gas savings
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 18, 2018
Tesla rear wheel drive cars do actually work well on snow & ice. We did our traction testing on an ice lake! Dual motor AWD is great, but not required for cold weather. Just don’t use sport/summer tires.
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 18, 2018
The surprise announcement comes as Tesla tries to steer attention away from Musk, who has spent the past few months battling critics, smoking marijuana during interviews and pledging that he had the money to take Tesla private, a promise for which he was sued by the Securities and Exchange Commission.
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