2024 Tesla Model 3 AWD Just Got Cheaper

For all those lamenting the fact Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD models were no longer eligible for the full $7,500 EV Tax Credit, we have good news. According to Fueleconomy.gov, 2024 models are once again eligible for the tax credit, and it appears this is reflected on Tesla’s website when building out a custom model, but the company has yet to make an announcement. This means the $47,490 model can now be acquired for $39,990 at the point of sale.

When the company introduced the refreshed Model 3 at the end of last year, there were plenty of changes and an increase in range for all models. It didn’t announce any changes to the battery makeup in its vehicles, but it was able to increase the range on the LR AWD model from 315 to 341 miles thanks to aerodynamic and efficiency updates. Along the way, it lost its EV tax credit, but thanks to some wizardry, it appears the credit is back.

Almost Every Model 3 Qualifies

The LR AWD version lost its tax credit eligibility on Jan 1st, 2024 when the US government updated requirements. This also impacted the Chevy Blazer EV and Cadillac Lyriq (though that’s changed for them too). The makeup of the battery used in the vehicle doesn’t appear to have changed, nor did the manufacturing location, but the percentage requirements to qualify went up, thereby cutting it out. It’s possible Tesla was able to source a higher percentage of materials from qualifying countries, but whatever the reason, it’s welcome news.

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For the vehicle to qualify, it must not exceed a build price of $55,000, which includes equipment physically attached to the vehicle at the time of delivery. Tesla says this doesn’t include software, miscellaneous accessories, tax, and fees, meaning Full Self-Driving shouldn’t put you over, but the 19-inch Nova wheels could. It’s important to note that the $7,500 Tax Credit can still be applied to all vehicles when leasing, regardless of if they qualify otherwise.

The Model 3 LR AWD Is An Attractive Option Again

Thanks to the EV tax credit, you can now grab a new Model 3 with no additional options for $39,990, just $1,010 more than a base Model 3 RWD. For that extra thousand, you receive 69 more miles of range and a 0-60 mph time of just 4.2 seconds. While most people won’t need performance like this, it’s great to know it’s an option for so little.

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But there is a Chinese component to making this happen.

If that isn’t enough, you can opt for the new Model 3 Performance which gives you genuine sports car capability in a model that will comfortably seat four. A comprehensive redesign has given the model an AWD system that delivers 510 horsepower and 547 lb-ft of torque, which will rocket you from 0-60 mph in just 2.9 seconds. Range is a solid EPA-estimated 303 miles, though that may be hard to achieve if you hit the top speed of 163 mph.