Tesla has made a significant change to its vehicle lineup by discontinuing the Model 3 Standard Range Rear-Wheel-Drive, which was the company's most affordable electric car priced at $39,000. This update was reflected in Tesla's online configurator, and it marks a shift in the options available to consumers looking for a budget-friendly electric vehicle. With the removal of the Standard Range model, the least expensive Tesla now is the Model 3 Long Range Rear-Wheel-Drive, which starts at $42,500. This model offers an additional 90 miles of range compared to the discontinued version, making it a more appealing option for buyers despite the higher price. For those eligible for the federal tax credit, the effective cost of the Long Range model could drop to $35,000 after accounting for the $7,500 tax credit, along with potential state incentives and savings on fuel. The decision to discontinue the Standard Range model is likely influenced by recent changes in tariffs on Chinese battery cells, which were used in this particular trim. These tariffs have made it less competitive in the market, especially since the LFP (lithium iron phosphate) batteries used in the Standard Range model complicate access to the tax credit. As a result, Tesla appears to have opted to streamline its offerings to maintain competitiveness in the electric vehicle market. This move reflects Tesla's ongoing strategy of adjusting its vehicle trims and pricing in response to market conditions and regulatory changes, often without prior announcements. The company continues to focus on providing a range of electric vehicles that cater to different consumer needs while navigating the complexities of battery sourcing and pricing.