Tesla Model S Price History: A Comprehensive Overview

The Tesla Model S is a luxury electric vehicle that has been on the market since 2012. Since its debut, the price of the Model S has fluctuated significantly, reflecting changes in the electric vehicle market and the overall economy.

Understanding the price history of the Tesla Model S can provide valuable insights into the electric vehicle market and help potential buyers make informed purchasing decisions.

From 2012 to 2016, the price of the Model S remained relatively stable, with the base price starting at around $70,000. However, in 2016, Tesla introduced a new version of the Model S, the P100D, which boasted a range of over 300 miles and a 0-60 mph time of 2.5 seconds.

This new version of the Model S came with a hefty price tag of over $130,000, making it one of the most expensive electric vehicles on the market at the time.

In the years since the introduction of the P100D, the price of the Model S has continued to fluctuate, with Tesla periodically adjusting prices in response to changes in the market.

Despite these fluctuations, the Model S remains one of the most popular luxury electric vehicles on the market, and its price history provides valuable insights into the rapidly evolving world of electric vehicles.

Overview of Tesla Model S

Tesla Model S is a luxury electric vehicle (EV) produced by Tesla, an American company known for its innovation in the EV industry. The Model S was first introduced in 2012 and has since become one of the most popular luxury EVs on the market.

Evolution of the Model S

Over the years, the Model S has undergone several changes and upgrades. The original Model S had a range of 265 miles and could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds. Since then, Tesla has introduced several new versions with longer ranges and faster acceleration times.

For example, the Model S Plaid has a range of 390 miles and can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than 2 seconds.

Tesla has also made several technological advancements in the Model S. For example, the car features a large touchscreen display that controls most of the car’s functions, including navigation, climate control, and entertainment.

The Model S also has advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking and a collision warning system.

Tesla’s Position in the Luxury EV Market

Tesla’s Model S has helped establish the company as a leader in the luxury EV market. The Model S has won numerous awards for its design, performance, and innovation.

Tesla’s focus on innovation and sustainability has also helped the company attract a loyal customer base and establish itself as a leader in the EV industry.

Overall, the Tesla Model S is a luxury EV that has helped redefine the automotive industry. With its advanced technology, impressive performance, and sleek design, the Model S has helped establish Tesla as a leader in the luxury EV market.

Historical Price Analysis

Initial Pricing and 2012 Model S

When Tesla first introduced the Model S in 2012, the base price was $57,400. This initial pricing was relatively high compared to other electric vehicles on the market at the time.

However, the Model S was also a premium luxury vehicle with a longer range and better performance than most of its competitors.

Subsequent Annual Price Changes

Over the years, Tesla has made several price changes to the Model S. In 2013, the price dropped to $49,900, and in 2014, it dropped again to $69,900.

However, in 2015, the price increased to $70,000, and in 2016, it increased again to $71,500. In 2017, the price increased to $74,500, and in 2018, it increased again to $75,000.

Comparative Price Trends

According to a historical price analysis conducted by skills.ai, the Model S has experienced a general downward trend in prices since its introduction in 2012. In 2018, the Model S had a starting price of $115,750, which decreased to $82,490 by late 2023.

This trend is consistent with the overall market trends for electric vehicles, which have become more affordable over the years.

It is important to note that the prices for the Model S vary depending on the specific configuration and features selected by the buyer. Additionally, the prices for used Model S vehicles may differ from the prices for new vehicles.

Therefore, it is essential to carefully consider the specific pricing and features of the Model S before making a purchase decision.

Performance and Specifications

Battery and Range

The battery pack of the Tesla Model S has been upgraded multiple times over the years. The latest Plaid Model has a 100 kWh battery pack that provides a range of 348 miles per charge according to the EPA.

The P90D, which was released in 2015, had a 90 kWh battery pack that provided a range of 270 miles per charge according to the EPA.

The range of the Model S has increased significantly over the years, making it one of the most practical electric vehicles on the market.

Acceleration and Top Speed

The Tesla Model S has always been known for its impressive acceleration and top speed. The Plaid Model S can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 1.98 seconds, making it one of the fastest production cars in the world.

The top speed of the Plaid Model S is 200 mph. The P90D, which was released in 2015, could go from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.8 seconds and had a top speed of 155 mph.

Model S Variants Over the Years

Over the years, Tesla has released several variants of the Model S. The P90D was released in 2015 and was the first Model S to feature a Ludicrous mode, which allowed it to go from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.8 seconds. The P90D also had a range of 270 miles per charge according to the EPA.

In 2016, Tesla released the Model S P100D, which had a 100 kWh battery pack and a range of 315 miles per charge according to the EPA. The P100D could go from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.4 seconds and had a top speed of 155 mph.

The Plaid Model S, which was released in 2021, is the latest and greatest version of the Model S, with a range of 348 miles per charge according to the EPA and a top speed of 200 mph. It can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 1.98 seconds, making it one of the fastest production cars in the world.

Ownership Experience

Cost of Ownership

The Tesla Model S is a luxury electric vehicle that has a reputation for being expensive to own. However, the high initial cost of purchasing the vehicle is offset by the savings in fuel and maintenance costs.

According to Tesla Motors Club, a Model S owner reported spending $0 in maintenance costs over a period of 5.5 years.

This is due to the car’s electric powertrain, which requires less maintenance than a traditional gasoline engine. Additionally, the Model S has a high safety rating, which can lead to lower insurance premiums.

Resale Value and Car Worth

The Tesla Model S has a reputation for holding its value well, making it an attractive option for those looking to sell their vehicle in the future. According to Capital One, a Model S that was originally priced at $57,400 is still worth 38% of that price, or $21,900.

In comparison, a 2012 Lexus LS holds just 21% of its value with similar mileage. However, it’s important to note that the resale value of a Model S can vary depending on factors such as mileage, condition, and location.

Customer Satisfaction and Reviews

Overall, Tesla Model S owners are highly satisfied with their ownership experience. According to Consumer Reports, the Model S has a high owner satisfaction rating of 97%. Owners praise the car’s performance, handling, and technology features.

However, some owners have reported issues with quality control and reliability. It’s important to note that Tesla is known for continuously updating and improving their vehicles through over-the-air software updates, which can address some of these issues.

In conclusion, the Tesla Model S has a reputation for being an expensive but rewarding vehicle to own. Its high initial cost is offset by savings in fuel and maintenance costs, and it has a reputation for holding its value well.

Overall, owners are highly satisfied with their ownership experience, praising the car’s performance and technology features. However, it’s important to consider factors such as quality control and reliability when making a purchase decision.

Future of the Tesla Model S

Upcoming Features and Updates

Tesla has been known to constantly update and improve their vehicles with new features and technology. The 2023 Model S saw a major update with a refreshed exterior design and an entirely new interior.

The 2024 Model S is expected to have even more updates, such as a new battery pack that will increase the range to over 520 miles. Additionally, Tesla has hinted at the possibility of a fully autonomous driving system in the near future.

The Cybertruck, Tesla’s highly anticipated electric pickup truck, is also expected to have a significant impact on the future of the Model S.

The Cybertruck is expected to have a starting price of $39,900, which is significantly lower than the current starting price of the Model S. This could potentially lead to a decrease in demand for the Model S, unless Tesla is able to offer unique features and updates to distinguish the two vehicles.

Projected Price Trends

It is difficult to predict the exact price of the Model S in the future, as it is subject to a variety of factors such as production costs, demand, and competition.

However, it is expected that the price of electric vehicles will continue to decrease as battery technology improves and production costs decrease. Additionally, as more competitors enter the electric vehicle market, Tesla may need to adjust their pricing strategy to remain competitive.

Overall, the future of the Tesla Model S looks promising with continued updates and improvements. However, the impact of the Cybertruck and the evolving electric vehicle market may have a significant impact on the demand and pricing of the Model S.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the Tesla Model S has undergone several price changes throughout its history, with some models experiencing significant fluctuations. The prices have varied from year to year, depending on the model, features, and market conditions.

Despite the fluctuations, the Model S remains a popular and innovative electric car that offers impressive performance, range, and features. It has won numerous awards and accolades for its design, performance, and safety features.

For those interested in purchasing a Model S, it is important to research the current market conditions and compare prices from different dealerships and online retailers.

It is also essential to consider the various features and options available, such as battery range, autopilot features, and interior amenities.

In the end, the Tesla Model S is a top-of-the-line electric car that offers a unique driving experience and cutting-edge technology.

While the price history may be a consideration for some buyers, it is important to weigh the value of the car against its cost and to make an informed decision based on individual needs and preferences.