This is just the 50 kWh Model S, rinse and repeat. Get the positive PR for launching the low cost version, attempt to sell as few as possible, then take it off the menu.
Don't forget that when the mythical $35k Model 3 was announced, Tesla purchasers could get the full federal tax credit. That would have put the price below $30k, perhaps even after destination fees.
But since they opted to only sell the higher-tier Model 3s first, the tax credits only ever went to buyers paying much more than $35k.
But since they opted to only sell the higher-tier Model 3s first, the tax credits only ever went to buyers paying much more than $35k.