In a significant move as part of Tesla’s ongoing efforts to fine-tune its lineup and pricing strategy, the electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer has decided to slash the purchase price of its highly anticipated Full Self-Driving (FSD) assistance feature by a substantial $3,000.
Effective immediately, customers who opt for a brand-new Tesla EV from the Austin-based automaker can select the FSD capability option at a cost of $12,000, marking a notable reduction from the previous price tag of $15,000 for this feature.
This pricing adjustment coincides with the launch of the revamped Tesla Model 3, also referred to as Project Highland, and substantial reductions in the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRPs) for the Model S and Model X flagship models. Additionally, Tesla has made all paint options free for the Model S and Model X, while discontinuing the Standard Range trim for both these vehicles through their online configurator.
Notably, the subscription pricing for FSD remains unchanged, with a monthly fee of $99 for vehicles equipped with Enhanced Autopilot and $199 for those equipped with Basic Autopilot.
To access the Enhanced Autopilot option at $6,000, customers must specify it during the configuration of their new Tesla vehicle. This feature empowers Tesla vehicles to autonomously change lanes, navigate from highway on-ramps to off-ramps, execute parallel and perpendicular parking, and be summoned within a parking lot via the Tesla smartphone app, according to information available on the company’s official website.
The FSD feature, priced at $12,000, introduces traffic light and stop light control, allowing the vehicle to automatically halt at red lights and stop lights while Navigate on Autopilot is engaged.
It’s worth noting that some Tesla owners have previously expressed concerns about FSD being bundled with the vehicle purchase, as it could potentially undervalue used cars equipped with this feature. However, in a limited-time offer, Elon Musk, Tesla’s CEO, has announced that customers can transfer ownership of FSD from an old Tesla vehicle to a new one at no additional cost until the end of September.
Despite these developments, the promise of achieving genuine full self-driving capability remains unfulfilled, with instances of Tesla vehicles captured on camera failing to yield to pedestrians. Additionally, a simple cost analysis reveals that, even with the reduced purchase price, those enthusiastic about FSD might find it more economical to acquire a new vehicle with Basic Autopilot and opt for a subscription to access the feature. For $12,000, customers could utilize the feature for 60 months or 5 years under the most expensive subscription plan. This option offers the flexibility to cancel the monthly fee if the driver feels that FSD does not meet their expectations.