Who wouldn’t like a lifetime free charging for their EVs but if that means you have to give extra to purchase one?
Tesla has announced a significant price hike for its Model S lineup but is offering free lifetime supercharger access to sweeten the deal. Surprisingly, a used Tesla Model S is sought after in the aftermarket even with early issues and redesigned batteries.
Why? Because it comes with free supercharging benefits and people do love freebies. Let’s break down the key details in simple terms and explore what these changes mean for consumers.
Tesla Model S Gets A Hike
Tesla has made a rare move by increasing the prices of its flagship Model S lineup that too in the holiday season. The Model S Long Range now starts at $79,990, while the Plaid version begins at $94,990—a $5,000 bump for both trims.
Interestingly, this adjustment brings their starting prices in line with the Model X and even matches the Cybertruck AWD and Cyberbeast Trimotor non-Foundation Series.
As of December 2024, here’s the new pricing:
- Model S Long Range: Now starts at $79,990
- Model S Plaid: Now starts at $94,990
While the price hike is significant, there’s a silver lining. Tesla has introduced a new perk for buyers: free supercharging, making the deal appealing despite the steeper price tag. Moreover, buyers can take advantage of other promotional discounts and offers.
Additionally, Tesla is offering three complimentary months of FSD for anyone who orders a Model S or any Tesla before December 31. For Model S AWD buyers who opt for FSD Supervised, Tesla is throwing in one paid upgrade option at no extra cost.
Is There Any Change In Configuration?
The price increase is not accompanied by any changes to the current features or configurations of the Model S. Last year, Tesla reduced prices on its Model S and Model X by as much as 15%, likely to boost sales.
This hike could be Tesla’s way to rebalance the previous cut in Tesla Model S’s prices aligning with inflation perhaps. However, it could also be a reason that Tesla wants to keep its pricing competitive in the luxury electric vehicle market.
The Return Of Free Lifetime Supercharging
To counterbalance the price hike and attract buyers, Tesla has brought back one of its most sought-after perks: Free Lifetime Supercharging.
For every new Model S purchased or leased on or after December 13, 2024, Tesla will offer free charging at any Tesla Supercharger for its lifetime. This indeed is going to be a huge selling point, as it allows drivers to charge their cars at no cost.
This offer will effectively eliminate one of the biggest challenges of owning an Electric car, the charging time and cost.
The appeal is straightforward—free lifetime Supercharging and premium connectivity, perks that earlier Model S units originally came with. Tesla is yet to announce any changes or addition of such offers to Model S. It is likely that Tesla would extend the offer to other EVs in its premium segment.
Or this could be a limited-time incentive in nudging on-the-fence buyers to finalize their purchase while the offer is still on the table. You never know!
However, not all are enjoying the offer as much as Tesla is trying to sell it with the Model S. One Reddit user said the offer is not that great as the payback time of 5 grand is a long time. To which one other user replied saying he would rather have a 5k discount on the vehicle.
Comment
byu/Mrd0t1 from discussion
inTeslaLounge
Comment
byu/Mrd0t1 from discussion
inTeslaLounge
Free Lifetime Supercharging Comes With Strings Attached?
The offer is not that very simple as there are things one needs to know before buying into the offer. The free Supercharging is tied to the buyer’s Tesla account and applies to the specific vehicle, the Model S. You cannot transfer or use the offer for another vehicle or a new owner if the car is sold.
Owners are still responsible for congestion fees or idle fees at Superchargers, ensuring charging spots remain available for others.
Tesla previously valued Lifetime Supercharging at around $5,000, which explains the current hike of a similar amount. This makes the offer especially attractive for those who have been considering upgrading to a Model S, as the incentive essentially offsets the price hike.
Why Tesla’s Lifetime Supercharging Offer Matters?
Tesla is trying a balanced approach with the latest offer, and here’s why this offer matters:
- Resale Value: Vehicles with Free Lifetime Supercharging tend to hold their value exceptionally well in the second-hand market. A 2014 Model S, for example, can still get $28,995, thanks to its free charging benefits.
- Savings for Owners: Over the lifespan of the EV, free charging can save thousands of dollars, making it justifiable for budget-conscious buyers.
- Tesla’s Strategic Play: Tesla’s recent moves are targeting the stiff competition by raising prices but introducing an even better deal with Lifetime Supercharging.
- Standing Out in the Competition: With more automakers holding strong in the EV space like BYD and Volkswagon, Tesla is leveraging its Supercharger network as a unique selling point. Other EV manufacturers rely on third-party charging networks that could give an edge to Tesla.
- Encouraging Buyers to Make The Purchase: Tesla is known for running time-limited promotions to drive sales during specific periods. This offer can help buyers to jump over the fence and make a purchase during the holiday season.
Bottomline
Currently, the free lifetime Supercharging promo is limited to U.S. buyers, with Canada and Mexico instead receiving three free months of Supercharging.
For those eyeing the Tesla Model S to make a purchase of a Model S, now might be the perfect time to take the plunge. Even with the price hike, it could actually be a profitable purchase with the supercharger offer.
Stay tuned for further updates, especially if Tesla brings the offer to the Model X or other Tesla models!
