Tesla has quietly removed the Model 3 Rear Wheel Drive (RWD) variant with LFP batteries from its U.S. order page. This change was first noticed by electric vehicle enthusiasts on Tuesday.
A visit to Tesla’s updated U.S. order page for the Model 3 now reveals three available variants:
- Model 3 Long Range RWD: Starting at $42,490
- Model 3 Long Range All Wheel Drive (AWD): Starting at $47,490
- Model 3 Performance: Starting at $54,990
(All prices are before options and incentives)
Previously, Tesla offered a fourth option: the Model 3 RWD. This variant featured a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, provided an EPA-estimated range of 272 miles per charge, and was priced at $38,990 before options and incentives. Notably, due to its battery composition, it did not qualify for federal incentives.
The timing of this change is interesting, coming just days after the Biden administration announced increased tariffs on Chinese-made lithium-ion EV batteries. This move by Tesla could be partly motivated by a desire to optimize production costs for their entry-level sedan.
Another factor potentially driving this decision is the presence of the Model 3 Long Range RWD in the lineup. This variant, which does not use an LFP battery pack, offers significantly better value for money. With an EPA-estimated range of 363 miles per charge – the highest in the Model 3 line – and a starting price of $42,490, it presents a compelling option for buyers.
The price difference between the now-discontinued Model 3 RWD and the Model 3 Long Range RWD was only $3,500. For this relatively small increase, customers gain an additional 91 miles of range, improved acceleration, and eligibility for federal incentives. Given these benefits, it’s likely that many U.S. customers were already opting for the Long Range RWD variant.
This streamlining of the Model 3 lineup suggests Tesla is adapting to both regulatory changes and consumer preferences in the U.S. market. It remains to be seen how this change will impact Tesla’s sales and market position in the competitive electric vehicle sector.
