It seems Tesla is back on its generosity spree. Previously this year, the Austin-based automaker had slashed prices on its two best-selling models: the Model Y and the Model 3. The reason for that seems to be a production backlog, and Tesla appears intent on alleviating its inventory with appealing price cuts in the United States. In China, where Tesla is the second-biggest manufacturer, the company is cutting prices, and prioritizing volume sales, to the detriment of profit.

In the PRC, the Model X and the Model S were subjected to a 6.9 and a 6.7 percent decrease in prices, respectively. In the United States, the EV pioneer seems to be following a similar approach. On September 1st, Tesla decided to slash prices on its two most expensive EVs, the Model X and the Model S by as much as 18,500. These initiatives come amid a series of pivotal decisions made over the last couple of weeks. Tesla recently refreshed its flagship Model 3, with a new interior and more defined design, after more than seven years of the same old styling. While the latter will enjoy a reinvigorated aura, thanks to its brand-new look, the Model X and Model S.

Related: Here’s What Makes The Tesla Model X Plaid So Fast

The Premium Teslas Have Gotten More Affordable

Tesla has now removed both the Standard Range version of the Model S and the Model X from their official website. The decision comes as a bit of a surprise, considering both variants were introduced only two weeks ago. In August 2023, the Model X Standard Range on the other hand came at $88,490, and an approximate range of 269 miles. The Tesla Model S Standard Range was considerably cheaper with an MSRP of $78,490, and a range of 320 miles.

Fast-forward to September, and both variants are gone from Tesla’s panoply. This doesn’t mean, however, that Tesla has completely given up on the idea of budget-friendliness. The company in fact slashed the prices for the remaining trim levels, which made the introductory Standard Range version useless.

The dual-motor, all-wheel drive version of the Model S now starts at $74,990 in the U.S. while the base Model X now starts at $79,990, putting it in the same bracket as the Rivian R1S. The trimotor all-wheel drive Plaid now goes from $89,990 on both versions, marking a reduction of $18,500 on both models. The regular Model S was also subjected to a $13,500 price cut, while the introductory Model X is now $18,500 cheaper than before. While media outlets are attributing these decisions to poor sales numbers, it's still unclear whether that is necessarily true, or whether it is the actual motive. In any case, these price cuts should give the two high-end EVs a serious competitive edge over the rising contenders.

Related: 10 Things To Know About The 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland

Does The Price Cut Help The Model X?

We’ve previously pointed out that the Model X needs a successor. Despite being a high-end SUV, the famed EV has been anecdotally reported to have a low-end build, unworthy of its hefty price tag. Owners have reported issues of fit and finish imperfections. Glitches and technical malfunctions on the infotainment screen have also plagued the track record of the Model X. The Falcon doors can also be impractical at times, as they can refuse to open, even with an 18-inch clearance. Moving on, some customers have also complained about the suspension system, citing strange rattling noises.

Such problems on an expensive EV would entail heavy repair costs, which makes the Model X a less attractive purchase amid the growing number of options. Other premium EVs such as the upcoming Hyundai Ioniq 7 could eventually assert themselves as a serious threat. The debuting Fisker Ocean, which offers up to 360 miles of range, and falls within the same price range, could also prove to be a serious rival. Currently, the Tesla Model X is asserting its dominance thanks to the touted “T” logo.

Tesla Model X Performance Specifications

Other manufacturers still have a lot to prove to the public when it comes to their EVs. Tesla, on the other hand, has set itself apart as a pioneer of the game. However, a vehicle can only stay on top for so long before needing a proper refresh. In the case of the Model X, it has kept the same interior and exterior styling for nearly a decade. As a result, the design is beginning to look outdated, especially as more attractive options, such as the Cadillac Lyriq, the debuting Fisker Ocean and the Chevy Blazer keep emerging.

Nonetheless, the Model X remains a potent EV, with pretty amazing specs. A mid-cycle facelift wouldn't hurt, however, and could even boost sales. The newly renovated Model 3 Highland, has done a pretty good job reviving the sedan's dwindling aura, which is something the pricier versions definitely need.

Related: 10 Hybrid Alternatives To The Tesla Model S

The Model S Is In Need Of Rejuvenation

Ever since being introduced to the public, the Model S has remained a bewildering embodiment of electric prowess. Back then, the ultra-fast EV dominated the game with 785 horsepower, courtesy of a dual-motor setup. Moreover, it could sprint from rest to 60 mph in about two seconds, on its way to a top speed of 163 mph. Fast-forward years later, and the flagship sedan still remains untouched in terms of performance. The acceleration time of the $89,990 Model S Plaid is impressively close to that of the $2.2 million Rimac Nevera.

Tesla Model S Performance Specifications

As a matter of fact, the flagship Tesla sports car formerly reigned supreme over the production EV in the category in the Nürburgring, with a record lap time of 7:35.579 minutes, before being dethroned by the Croatian hypercar. Regardless of that, the Model S Plaid is still one of the fastest EVs on the market, with three electric motors churning out a total of 1,020 horsepower, and a 0-60mph time of 1.99 seconds. Furthermore, it also boasts a range of 390 miles on a full charge, making it one of the most efficient offerings in the e-segment.

Aside from that, the Model S is also plagued by an outdated interior that is starting to pale in comparison with the surging novelties in the EV industry. However, its unparalleled potency gives a unique prestige. The impressive output, however, could soon be eclipsed by the Tesla Roadster, which is touted by Elon and Co. as being the fastest production car in history. Whether those claims are true or not remains to be seen. In any case, it shouldn’t threaten the Model S in any way, considering its more affordable price tag.

Revised Pricing Of The Tesla Model S And Model X

The regular Model S, however, is less appealing due to its more modest demeanor, and its sober cabin design. Should the Lucid Air be subjected to similar price cuts, we can expect it to become a serious rival in terms of market share and mass appeal.