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End of an Era

After earlier reports saying the Model S and Model X would be discontinued, Tesla has recently sent an email to U.S. customers thanking them for their support of both outgoing nameplates. The EV maker also took the opportunity to encourage interested buyers to place orders now as it clears its limited inventory.

Tesla was not explicit in the email, saying only that the move would “make way for this autonomous future.” Still, the automaker was likely referring to freeing up capacity for upcoming products, including the Optimus humanoid robot and the Cybercab robotaxi. Both projects could help reposition the company as more than just an EV maker.

When EVs Got Serious

However, Tesla did describe the Model S and Model X as the EVs that “marked the beginning of the world’s transition to electric transportation,” and that claim is hard to dismiss. When the Model S arrived in 2012 as Tesla’s flagship, it delivered blistering performance that let it outrun several established performance cars. The Model S helped bring excitement to the mass market, thanks in large part to its instant torque, which became one of the defining traits of electric performance. One could argue that the original Roadster also played an important role, but it was a far more limited-production model.

The Model X followed three years later with similar performance, but in a larger package. It also left a strong impression, with its Falcon Wing doors wowing the market and serving as an early signal that EVs would bring more advanced technology into the mainstream.

Since then, several automakers have introduced competitors, including the Lucid Air and the Porsche Taycan in the high-performance EV sedan segment. Meanwhile, more three-row EVs have also entered the market, such as the Rivian R1S and Hyundai Ioniq 9.

Tesla’s Big Pivot Begins

Tesla did not disclose the exact end date for production of the Model S and Model X. However, it likely will not be long, as the Cybercab is scheduled to start mass production next month. The latest Optimus Gen 3 is also scheduled for production toward the end of 2026.

For those considering the Model S or Model X while inventory lasts, the outgoing flagship sedan starts at $94,990, while its crossover counterpart starts at $99,990. Opting for the performance-focused Plaid trim adds about $15,000.

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This story was originally published by Autoblog on Mar 29, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Autoblog as a Preferred Source by clicking here.