By introducing two new entry-level versions of the Model 3 and Model Y, Tesla has shown that in an era of increasingly expensive cars, it can still offer more affordable alternatives.
Instead of following through on initial promises of a completely new low-cost model, Elon Musk has taken a different path – by systematically eliminating extras and optimizing production, he has simplified existing models, thereby significantly reducing the price. The new Model 3 Standard and Model Y Standard are the result of this strategy, targeting buyers who are willing to sacrifice some comfort and equipment for a lower starting price.
The Model 3 Standard is now the most affordable entry into the world of Tesla. For less than €40.000, it includes a single electric motor, a range of 517 kilometers (WLTP) and acceleration to 100 km/h in 5,8 seconds. Compared to the previous version of the Model 3, now called the Premium RWD, the Standard is about €5.000 cheaper, which is reflected in the reduced equipment: textile seats, manual steering wheel adjustment, simpler air conditioning and no ambient lighting or rear screen. The shock absorbers and charging capacity are also somewhat modest - a fast charge will allow up to 273 kilometers in 15 minutes, while the Premium can do up to 314 kilometers.
The Model 3 Standard is available in three basic colors (white, gray, and black), has 18-inch wheels, and can be upgraded with a "supervised" self-driving feature (FSD) for an additional fee, which is expected to cost around €7.500 in Slovenia. Given its price, it shares market space with models such as the Nissan Leaf, Hyundai Ioniq 6, and numerous other Chinese models, and deliveries are expected by the end of the year or early 2026.
The Model Y Standard follows a similar pricing strategy, which should also be available for under forty thousand euros, which is about 4.700 euros less than the previous basic Model Y - similar to the Model 3, it is now the Model Y Premium. Certain simplifications have also been made to this model: the leather seats have been replaced with textile ones, the number of lighting elements has been reduced, there are no longer heated rear seats or an 8-inch rear screen. The roof is still made of glass, but it is no longer transparent. Why? Tesla said that due to existing partnerships with the glass supplier and optimized production processes, it is actually cheaper to install a glass roof than to produce and develop a completely new metal roof.
Technically, the Model Y Standard has a range of 517 kilometers, a single electric motor on the rear axle, an output of 300 hp, and acceleration to 100 km/h in 6,8 seconds. The battery pack is slightly smaller (69,5 kWh), but still powerful enough for everyday use. Compared to the Long Range version, which offers a range of 574 kilometers and acceleration in 5,7 seconds, the difference is not drastic.
The Model Y Standard is equipped with 18-inch wheels, with 19-inch wheels available for an additional fee. There are also three basic colors available, the same as the Model 3, and for the more active type of buyer, a towbar is also available - of course for an additional fee. Here too, the FSD system is available for an additional fee. At the time of writing, Tesla has not yet revealed Slovenian price lists, but it is expected that the Model Y Standard with all additional equipment should not exceed the threshold of €50.000.
While these are still not Tesla's long-promised sub-30.000 euro models, the newcomers Model 3 Standard and Model Y Standard offer a competitive package for those who want a more affordable electric car with decent range and technology.
