Tesla has delayed the rollout of Tesla Model 3 vehicles in 2019, CEO Elon Musk has revealed.
Launches for the left-hand drive Model 3 variants in Asia and Europe are now tipped for the first half of 2019, several months later than the original 2018 release target.
Those living in the UK or other countries where the steering wheel is located on the right side will have to wait a bit longer. Musk says the Model 3 will probably not arrive until the middle of 2019.
"Model 3 was designed for min engineering & tooling change for RHD. Note left/right symmetry. LHD for Europe & Asia first half of next year. RHD probably middle of next year," Musk confirmed in a tweet.
Tesla's Production Goal
For a company like Tesla, which has spent months overcoming production woes, the delay doesn't come as much of a surprise. Most likely, the company is still trying to fulfill orders in the United States before venturing out into other countries.
After all, its original goal of making 5,000 cars per week is still unachieved but well within reach, according to its recently released earnings report.
Electrek speculates that Tesla is maximizing its release strategy to optimize the Federal tax credit in the United States. The $7,500 tax credit is cut in half in the next quarter once the company delivers the 200,000th car, which means timing is extremely important for Tesla. If the company hits its target of 5,000 cars produced per week, its tax credit savings could go as high as $240 million.
The good news is that when Tesla finally becomes ready for a large-scale international release, it will have the production capacity required to deliver Model 3 orders quickly, including performance variants and the anticipated "entry" Model 3 that costs $35,000.
Also, demand is likely to fall significantly once the U.S. tax credit starts to phase out, so Tesla will be able to focus on higher production rates for deliveries in international markets.
Tesla Model 3
The Model 3 is Tesla's smaller, simpler, and more affordable electric car. It has a range of up to 310 miles and can seat up to five adults. It also boasts the much-talked-about Autopilot feature, which lets the car drive on its own without human intervention.
Thrilled for the international launches for the Tesla Model 3? As always, if you have anything to share, feel free to sound off in the comments section below.
