Tesla drops Model Y Launch Series in the U.S.; Long Range AWD now starts at $48,990. Big price cut, but is it still worth buying? (149 characters)


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Tesla has dropped a bombshell once again! The company has quietly discontinued the Model Y Launch Series trim in the U.S. market. Now, the only available version is the Long Range All-Wheel Drive (AWD), priced at $48,990 (excluding destination and taxes). That’s a massive $11,000 price drop — but along with the savings, you lose some key features. Let’s break down how this move is shaking things up for Tesla fans and potential buyers.

💥 Launch Series Out, Long Range AWD In – What’s Changed?

The Model Y Launch Series was a premium trim that included Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) package, vegan suede interior, and exclusive Launch Series badging. It was priced at $59,990. Now, that version has disappeared from Tesla’s U.S. website and has been replaced by the Long Range AWD variant starting at $48,990.

The Real Strategy Behind the Price Drop

Tesla made this change quietly last week. Experts believe it’s a strategic move — global sales have slowed down, and many former fans are switching to other EV brands like Hyundai, Kia, and BYD due to Elon Musk’s increasingly polarizing behavior.

🚗 Performance, Features & Add-Ons – What You’re Getting

The Tesla Model Y Long Range AWD delivers an EPA-rated range of 327 miles with 19-inch all-season tires. If you choose the 20-inch wheels, the range drops to 303 miles.

You can also add optional features like:

  • $1,000 tow hitch

  • $240 all-weather interior floor mats

  • $500 roof rack

  • $35 center console trays

Currently, there’s no seven-seat option available in this variant.

📉 Model Y’s Popularity vs. Tesla’s New Challenges

The Model Y was once the world’s best-selling car — not just among EVs but overall. However, recent trends show that Tesla’s global sales are declining. Many customers are distancing themselves from Tesla due to Elon Musk’s controversial remarks and social media presence.

Still, the Model Y remains a powerful, reliable, and high-performance EV, and with this new pricing, it’s more competitive than ever in its class.

Is the New Tesla Model Y Still Worth It?

If you’ve been eyeing a Tesla but were hesitant due to the price tag, this could be the perfect opportunity. Even without FSD or premium trim, the Model Y AWD still offers:

  • Impressive 327-mile range

  • Strong acceleration (0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds)

  • Effective price drops to $41,490 after federal tax credit (if eligible)

If you’re okay skipping some luxury touches and FSD, this version offers solid value for money in the EV space.

FAQ

The Launch Series was a limited-run premium edition. Tesla likely discontinued it to simplify its offerings and reduce the price point amid slowing sales.

No, FSD is not included. You can purchase it for $8,000 or subscribe to it monthly.

The updated Long Range AWD version accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds, slightly slower than the Launch Series.

Yes! If you meet the criteria, you can get a $7,500 federal EV tax credit, which brings the effective price down to $41,490.

If you’re looking for a high-performance EV at a lower cost, this might be the best time to buy. The price drop makes it more accessible than ever.

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