Tesla will market new “Standard Range” variants for its Model S and X. But behind this more accessible offer, what are the compromises?
Tesla has just announced a new variant for its Model S sedan as well as for its Model X SUV. These new models, named “Standard Range”are added to the already existing range made up of the “Long Range” and “Plaid” versions.
However, it should be noted that these new versions are, for now, only available in the US market.
Technical details and differences between variants
Model S
With a starting price of $78,490, down $10,000 from the previous version, the “Standard Range” Model S offers a range of 320 miles, i.e. about 515 km. That’s 85 miles (137 km) less than the “Long Range” version, which offers a range of 405 miles, or approximately 652 km.
Model X
On the Model X “Standard Range” side, pricing also starts with a $10,000 discount. The range offered is 269 miles, i.e. about 433 kmwhich is 79 miles (about 127 km) less than the “Long Range” version.
New battery capacity or software clamp?
The question that arises is how Tesla was able to offer these versions with less autonomy. Is it a real difference in the batteries, or is it a software lock of the “Long Range” batteries to offer this new variant? The trend is leaning towards the idea that Tesla may have opted for a reduced capacity battery.
When it comes to performance, although the acceleration of these models is slightly slower than their more expensive counterparts, they still retain two motors, one on each axle.
Software locking: a practice already seen at Tesla
It wouldn’t be the first time that Tesla has used software locking to limit the performance or range of its vehicles.
If this strategy has been employed for the new “Standard Range” variants, it means that Tesla could, in the future, offer the possibility for owners of these models to “unlock” the additional range or performance via an update. paid software. This option would probably be offered as an in-app purchase directly from the car interface.
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