Tesla recently released the updated Model 3 sedan, but the refreshed model lost eligibility for federal tax credits in all but the top Performance trim. A handful of Reddit users are claiming that the situation has changed, however, stating that the Tesla app reflects the $7,500 credit for the Long Range All-Wheel Drive configuration.
It’s worth noting that Tesla’s website does not reflect the change, only the Model 3 Performance available with a tax credit. The Performance’s credits bring it to around the same price as the Long Range model, so the latter variant’s newfound eligibility will help make it relevant in Tesla’s lineup. The Long Range All-Wheel Drive model will start at just under $40,000 with the credits.
Federal EV tax credits come with price limitations, which for the Model 3 is $55,000, inclusive of options and other fees. If the Model 3 Long Range does gain tax credit eligibility, it would make the car a significant bargain in Tesla’s catalog and only $1,000 more expensive than the base model. The Model 3 Long Range offers 341 miles on a charge and a quick 4.2-second 0-60 mph time, significant improvements over the base model’s 272 miles and 5.8-second 0-60 mph time.
While we will have to wait and see whether the Reddit users’ assumptions are correct, buyers can work around tax credit limitations by leasing a Model 3. Additionally, all Model Y variants are available with the credits, with the top Performance model clocking in at just under $38,000 after the discount.
[Images: Tesla]
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