Tesla Delays Deliveries Of Its First $35,000 Model 3s

Deliveries of the entry-level, $35,000 Model 3 were set to commence earlier this month, but it’s been revealed that the electric automaker has failed to follow through on its promise.

The Drive recently uncovered numerous complaints on various forums from Model 3 reservation holders who’ve received text messages from the company stating that their vehicles have been delayed.

Many of these customers claim they were told they would get their base Model 3s in the final week of March; they, however, have received text messages informing them that this is not going to happen. “Our apologies, we will need to reschedule your delivery appointment to a later date. A Tesla representative will reach out when we have a better estimate of your delivery timing from Tesla,” the messages are alleged to have read.

Customers say they haven’t been told exactly when they would get their new car. Some of them report their online Tesla accounts state deliveries will commence in six to eight weeks.

Is Tesla trying to push more expensive versions?

As those who ordered the entry-level eagerly wait to get the keys to their vehicles, some claim that Tesla has contacted them in an attempt to sell them more upscale, and therefore expensive, versions. If reports are to be believed, no Tesla Model 3 Standard Range models have been delivered so far. It has been three years since the $35,000 Tesla Model 3 was first announced.

In early March, Elon Musk said initial deliveries of the entry-level Model 3 would go to those who’ve had their reservations the longest. “They will get priority and then it will be new orders,” Musk said.

Many customers waiting for Model 3s are particularly keen to get them before the end of Jun,e when Tesla’s federal EV tax credit is reduced from $3,750 to $1,875.

We have contacted Tesla to hear their side on the issue, and will update this article once we have a response.