[well-here-we]

The only version you can buy right now includes the extra-large battery pack and the premium interior, which adds up to $49k.

Source: my reservation number has come up and that’s my only option.

[jungturk]

I suppose it hinges on how we define vaporware, but it’s consistently been the case that the lower priced options arrive later.

Source: sub-$70k model S buyer who had to wait longer than preferred for that to be available.

[jfoster]

I guess the way to resolve this is by asking, when does the $35k Model 3 become available?

Once the answer is known it's not vaporware, but until then Model 3 isn't quite finished, as that's the one that many folk will be waiting for.

[greglindahl]

The answer, for your queue position, is:

https://3.tesla.com/model3/delivery-estimate

[jungturk]

Early reservation holders will see "Late 2018".

[carlivar]

> it’s consistently been the case that the lower priced options arrive later.

No it hasn't. I would like to see where, in the first year of accepting Model 3 deposits, Tesla or Musk stated this.

[omgwtfbyobbq]

Costlier versions of the Roadster, Model S, and Model X were available before the base versions were. If Tesla had done the opposite with the Model 3, that would have been the exception.

[carlivar]

The difference is the deposits Tesla accepted for the Model 3. Likely many deposits were placed based on the frequently-cited $35k price.

I do not think deposits were taken for the models you mentioned.

[greglindahl]

You're wrong about all of these: Tesla was clear that the more expensive Model 3's would ship first, and S and X both shipped the most expensive ones first.

[carlivar]

Could you cite a source on that, please? The only articles I can find talking about it start in Summer 2017.

[jungturk]

Model X deposits ranged from $5k for the base model to $40k for the Signature model. Those deposits sat for up to 3 years for early reservations.

The upcoming Roadster requires $50k and $250k deposits.

The upcoming Semi requires a $20k deposit.

The original Roadster also required a deposit.

I'm unsure of the original Model S.

Tesla's current estimate for base Model 3's is "late 2018" for early reservation holders. Take that with a grain of salt given how reliably they announce unreliable release dates.

[greglindahl]

Yes, and the queue tool has given you a time estimate for 2 other options the entire time you've been in the queue.

For me, it currently reads:

First Production: available now (for me)

Standard Battery: Early 2019

Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive: Late 2018

[carlivar]

This is incorrect. As soon as you place your deposit, you're in the queue. The queue tool didn't exist until roughly Summer 2017, but deposits started March 2016. There was a period of more than a year where everything was opaque.

[greglindahl]

I recall it being clear that, just like the S and X launch, the most expensive 3's would ship first.

[carlivar]

On another thread I asked if you have a source for this - I'll ask again, because I can't find one. I didn't follow the Model S/X stuff too closely leading up to the Model 3 (I don't spend that much money on a depreciating asset). I did put my Model 3 deposit down the first day possible, and I do not remember any such "clarity" you describe around timing and expectations.

Then again, originally my standard range Model 3 was estimated "Feb-Apr 2018" or something like that. It now just says "Late 2018" and I have no faith that will be met, either.