On April 23, 2024, Tesla unveiled the new Model 3 Performance, claiming an MSRP of merely $52,990. However, a few days later, the price was increased to $53,990. Although the timing was unfortunate, Tesla has a history of making last-minute price adjustments, sometimes for the better. One such instance is the Model S Plaid, which originally retailed for around $130,000 but is currently available for less than $90,000. However, a few weeks later, Tesla has increased the Model 3 Performance’s MSRP to $54,990 on the manufacturer’s website—the second price increase since the model’s launch.
Model 3 Performance Nearly Prevents Eligibility For A $7,500 Tax Rebate
This has significant implications for several reasons, chief among them being the Inflation Reduction Act and the $7,500 tax credit that applies to vehicles that use American-made batteries. The Model 3 Performance is the only variant in the whole revised Model 3 series that meets this requirement.
It also undercuts the government-imposed $55,000 MSRP threshold for cars (more precisely, non-SUVs and trucks) to qualify. However, the most recent price increase brings the Model 3 Performance dangerously near to that amount—just $10. Accordingly, taking one without any optional additions is the only method to receive $7,500 back at the time of purchase. While the Model 3 Performance has restricted options, your selections are now even more constrained than they were two weeks ago.
Which Performance Level of the Tesla Model 3 Is Eligible for Cash Back?
The car now exceeds eligibility requirements for any paint job beyond the standard color. Actually, a Stealth Grey Model 3 Performance on 20-inch Warp wheels is the only available option that meets the requirements. Happily, the $1,000 white and black interior is no longer an option, so you may still receive the significant discount and choose your inside color.
Achieving Complete Autonomy Qualification Still Uncertain
Uncertainty exists regarding the government’s perception of the $8,000 Full Self-Driving Capability cost as part of the MSRP. The official law states:
The reason for the ambiguity is that, as far as we can tell, the automobile already has the hardware required for FSD capability, therefore you won’t need to choose it. If you choose to pay for it, it is then enabled at the dealer. You may also use the Tesla App to activate it after you make a purchase.
These days, waiting to buy a Model 3 Performance is dangerous due to Tesla’s capricious price policies. In the short future, the brand is just as likely to lower prices as to raise them, and any price increase of greater than $10 would significantly hurt the consumer.
