Gary Zhou 
Key Takeaways
- Tesla offers free Supercharging to buyers/lessees of new Model S or Model X, two vehicles kept for “sentimental reasons.”
- The Supercharging offer is valid for the life of ownership or lease but is non-transferable and excludes used and commercial vehicles.
- Elon Musk considers the Model S and Model X more of sentimental value rather than major contributors to Tesla’s future.
- Both vehicles are low-volume sellers and have not seen significant updates since the launch of the Plaid configuration in 2022.
- Tesla recently increased the price of the Model X by $5,000 in the US.
In an intriguing move, Tesla has introduced a Supercharging incentive for buyers or lessees of the iconic Model S and Model X. These vehicles, revered for their pioneering role in luxury electric vehicles, are more than just machines; they hold sentimental value for Tesla and its CEO, Elon Musk. Let’s explore what this offer entails and why it signals a significant moment for Tesla enthusiasts and potential buyers alike.
The Legacy of Model S and Model X
The Model S and Model X are flagship names in Tesla’s lineup, celebrated for igniting the electric vehicle revolution. Musk himself admitted these models continue production largely due to sentimental reasons, acknowledging their foundational role in Tesla’s journey.
The Sentimental Value Explained
- Elon Musk’s Perspective: Back in 2019, Musk openly shared that the Model S and Model X, while remarkable, have become less pivotal to Tesla’s future road map. They primarily exist to honor Tesla’s roots and the company’s progression from startup to leader in sustainable transport.
- Customer Loyalty and Recognition: These models have gathered a strong following, representing peak performance and luxury in the electric vehicle market. Their sentimental value also lies in how they have maintained cult status among early adopters and enthusiasts, even as Tesla continues focusing on mass-market appeal with models like the Model 3 and Model Y.
Understanding the Supercharging Offer
This Supercharging incentive is not just a sales tactic; it’s a nod to those who appreciate Tesla’s history and the unique benefits that come with owning such an iconic vehicle.
What the Offer Entails
- Lifetime Free Supercharging: New purchases or leases of the Model S and Model X now come with free Supercharging for the duration of ownership or the lease, enhancing the value proposition considerably.
- Eligibility and Limitations: The offer is strictly non-transferable, meaning it stays with the original owner and doesn’t apply if the vehicle is sold. It excludes used, business or commercial purchases, ensuring the incentive remains exclusive.
- Effective Cost-Reduction: With the recent $5,000 price increase on the Model X, this offer serves as a balanced trade-off, potentially offsetting charging costs significantly over time.
The Models’ Market Position and Future
Despite their reduced volume in sales and absence of significant updates since 2022’s Plaid configuration, the Model S and Model X remain synonymous with luxury and performance in electric vehicles.
Future Speculations
- Potential Sunsetting: Industry observers speculate whether Tesla might phase these models out. However, until any formal announcement, they remain an essential part of Tesla’s lineage and hold an irreplaceable place in EV history.
- Market Dynamics: The pricing adjustments and incentive strategies reflect Tesla’s nuanced approach to maintaining interest while preparing for a future potentially dominated by newer, more accessible models.
A Sentimental Journey Worth Partaking
For Tesla enthusiasts, the Model S and Model X offer a tangible connection to Tesla’s ambitious past. The free Supercharging incentive sweetens the deal considerably for those wanting to be part of this ongoing chapter of automotive history.
Whether a savvy investment or a cherished collector’s item, these vehicles continue to offer a blend of nostalgia, performance, and future-forward thinking. As the electric vehicle market evolves, Tesla’s commitment to its foundational models serves as a testament to its vision and the enduring significance of its “sentimental” cars.
