Revised Model X and S by Tesla: Lighter weight, increased cost, and varied dimensions - implications for consumers and the industry.
Freshened-Up Tesla Electric Vehicles Bring Enhanced Features and Hiked Prices
Your favorite EVs, the beloved Model S and Model X, just got an upgrade! While battling a sales slump, Tesla unveiled new, pricier versions on Friday to roll out a host of improved features – but at a $4,500 (or €3,900) higher price tag.
Extra Smooth Rides and Advanced Lighting
Don't let the price scare you off! Tesla's latest electric crossover SUV and sedan offer some snazzy features. The refreshed models now glide on improved sound insulation, a softer suspension, and flashy dynamic ambient lighting.
The Model S Long Range boosts its range to a record-breaking 410 miles, beating out any electric vehicle to date. Both the Model X All Wheel Drive and Plaid variants have also extended their electric endurance. The updated models are also equipped with new front cameras that enhance visibility for Autopilot navigation and Actual Smart Summon (ASS) features.
A Bigger Dent in Your Wallet
Dollars, pounds, or euros – whichever currency you’re using, you might find your wallet slightly lighter after purchasing the new and shiny Model S or Model X. Both electric vehicles, already the most expensive models in Tesla's lineup, will set you back an additional $4,500. The new and improved Model S Plaid weighs in at a hefty 26 pounds (approx. 12 kg) more, and the new Model X Plaid tackles the road at 186 pounds (approx. 84 kg) higher than before. The revamped Model S Plaid maximizes speed at a decent 149 mph, which is just a smidgen less than the previous version's 200 mph.
Innovations Left Behind
The Model S and X offer design updates, but they don't include many of the more groundbreaking technologies introduced by Tesla in 2023 with the Cybertruck – such as its Steer-by-Wire feature and 800-volt battery pack. Given that these models are among Tesla's oldest, they were due for a refresh; however, the updated electric vehicles may not significantly help Tesla defeat its sales crisis since the company's global deliveries have been on a downturn due to growing competition and reactions to CEO Elon Musk's political meddling.
In Q1 2025, Tesla sold a mere 12,881 “other models”, which includes the Model X, Model S, and even the head-turning Cybertruck – a paling amount compared to their 323,800 mass-market Model 3 and Y sales. Despite being a significant part of Tesla's history, the Model X and Model S now account for only a negligible percentage of the company’s revenue.
- The refreshed Tesla Model S and Model X now offer improved sound insulation, a softer suspension, and dynamic ambient lighting, all aimed at delivering a smoother driving experience.
- The Model S Long Range now boasts a record-breaking range of 410 miles, while both Model X All Wheel Drive and Plaid variants have also extended their electric endurance.
- The new Model S and X come with updated front cameras for enhanced Autopilot navigation and Actual Smart Summon (ASS) features.
- The new Model S Plaid weighs 26 pounds more, and the Model X Plaid is 186 pounds heavier, adding to the already high price tag of these electric vehicles.
- Despite the design updates, the Model S and X do not include many of the more groundbreaking technologies introduced by Tesla in 2023, such as Steer-by-Wire and an 800-volt battery pack, and their sales may not significantly help Tesla combat its sales crisis due to growing competition and reactions to Elon Musk's political meddling.
