EVs are only becoming more popular as charging stations become more widespread and more manufacturers adopt the technology. Still, even with stiffer competition than ever, Tesla still holds 65% of the market share for US electric vehicle sales.
The most expensive Tesla model is the limited-edition 2023 Founders Series Roadster for $250,000. Tesla only plans to make 1,000 of these cars, and they will be the first-produced priority deliveries before the regular Roadsters, each of which comes with a low VIN and a Founders Series badge. All Founders Series Roadsters were already sold out in 2021.
Tesla has made a name for itself with some of its more affordable models, but even more with its state-of-the-art, pricier innovations. Let’s talk about the most expensive Tesla models and the impressive features they have to offer!
5. 2023 Tesla Cybertruck (Tri-Motor AWD) – $69,900
The strange but oddly appealing design of the Cybertruck dominated headlines for weeks when it was originally announced back in 2019. It was an immediate controversy with its unique, futuristic, albeit boxy design. Everybody seemed to have an opinion on it.
Technically, the Cybertruck is not even available. However, you can preorder the Tesla Cybertruck starting at $39,900 for the base model, but the tri-motor, all-wheel drive version comes in at $69,900. While it brought much hype after its announcement in 2019, several electric pickup trucks have been released since then, taking away Tesla’s spotlight.
While it was supposed to be released in 2021, Tesla faced some production issues. It is now set for official release in 2023, a promise that Tesla claims it is still on track to uphold.
Still, Tesla is doing well on preorders, as they have sold over 1.6 million Cybertruck models to date. Here are some reasons why.
Cybertruck (Tri-Motor AWD) Range
So, what makes the Cybertruck stand out from other electric trucks on the market? With a 40kWh per 100-mile efficiency rating, the 200kWh lithium-ion battery boasts an impressive range of 500.2 miles.
Cybertruck (Tri-Motor AWD) Power
Power is the other reason the Cybertruck has stood out from its competitors. Some of the first prototypes were used to beat the Ford F-150, the nation’s most popular pickup truck, in a game of “tug of war”.
With 805 horsepower and a top speed of nearly 130 miles per hour, the Cybertruck has plenty of power. It even has a towing capacity of up to 14,000 pounds, far ahead of the 5,000 to 7,700 offered by the most popular pickup trucks on the market. This makes the Cybertruck powerful enough to tow a large camper or perform admirably as a heavy-duty work truck.
Moreover, the truck has a 3500lb payload, which is more than enough for a work truck. If you need to, you could fill the bed with cinderblocks and drive across the country.
On top of that, the vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in as little as 2.9 seconds, a full second faster than the 2023 Chevy Corvette! This is largely due to the 600kW motor and the single-speed transmission.
Cybertruck (Tri-Motor AWD) Features
With a 6.5′ long and 5′ wide truck bed and 100 cubic feet of cargo volume in the cab, the Cybertruck is impressive in size. The interior comes equipped with a full-service touchscreen display, a classic Tesla audio system, and luxurious seating for a comfortable ride.
Moving on to the exterior, you won’t have to worry too much about scratching or damaging it. The body is made of Starship steel, a steel-based alloy produced by Elon Musk’s SpaceX that’s nearly impenetrable.
Lastly, the self-leveling suspension, incredible braking system, and unprecedented speed make the Cybertruck truly one of a kind. Even with the delayed release date, they are sure to impress when they hit the road.
Compared to other luxury car brands with more years of experience under their belts like Rolls Royce, even the base model of the new Cybertruck blows them out of the water.
4. 2023 Tesla Model Y Performance – $69,900
The 2023 Model Y has many different versions ranging from around $65,000 to over $69,900 (the performance model starts at $69,900).
Weighing in at 4,555 pounds on its own, the Model Y is a stylish crossover SUV with a slick sedan aesthetic. While they look like large sedans, they have the cargo space, leg room, and classification of an SUV. Here’s what you need to know!
Model Y Range
The EPA estimates the Tesla Model Y’s range to be around 327 miles (roughly 220 highway miles), using around 27 kWh per 100 miles. However, the range on the performance model drops to about 303 miles, according to Tesla.
Considering the weight of the vehicle, that’s quite high. The range is largely due to the 82 kWh, 360V lithium-ion battery, which also contributes to the heavy weight of the vehicle.
Model Y Power
Depending on the specific model you purchase, the Model Y can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 3.5 to 4.8 seconds. That’s not bad at all considering the 4,555-pound curb weight.
Moreover, the Model Y has an impressive payload of 1,157 lbs. For context, that’s substantially higher than the payload of many popular SUVs at only 900 lbs.
For a smaller crossover SUV, the Model Y has an impressive towing capacity of 3500 lbs. Again, that’s much higher than comparable crossovers which rarely exceed 1500 lbs. Typically, crossovers of this size aren’t designed to tow at all, making this a great bonus for families with small campers or workers who may need to transport larger hauls than the payload allows.
Model Y Features
The majority of the Model Y’s interior and exterior features come from the Model 3 sedan. The Model Y is essentially a larger version of that, rather than having the bells and whistles of the luxurious Model X. It has the same standard sedan-style doors, a similar infotainment display to most Tesla models, and luxurious seating options to choose from.
One of the biggest selling points of the newer Model Y is its incredible safety features. The Model Y has automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, as well as a 5-star safety rating from the Euro NCAP.
For an extra $3000, you can even get a third row of seats, which is perfect for a family vehicle. However, the optional back row is a little tight, so it should be reserved for younger children.
3. 2023 Tesla Model S Plaid – $135,900
Yes, you read that correctly. The price starts at over $135,000 for the Tesla Model S Plaid. You’ll understand why when you hear how this vehicle handles and performs.
While it is small, it isn’t flimsy by any means. At 4766 lbs, this is no light sedan. For context, a new Toyota Corolla weighs around 3000 lbs.
Model S Plaid Range and Power
To start, the Plaid is the most expensive version of the Model S. With over 1000 hp, it’s the fastest by far, with a 0 to 60 time of around 2 seconds, which is much faster than the most popular Lamborghini model (Urus) at 3.2 seconds.
Believe it or not, this small sedan comes equipped with a 100kWh, 407V lithium-ion battery capable of ranges of up to 405 miles (EPA estimates 396 miles). This is perfect for road trips, as you can get up to 320 miles on the highway (at 70 mph).
Also, this is a speed and performance sedan, not necessarily a work vehicle. It isn’t designed for towing, but it still offers a payload of up to around 1000 lbs.
Model S Plaid Features
One of the greatest features of the Model S Plaid is its sophisticated AWD system. This allows for excellent handling on the road, even if you live in snowy or wet regions.
With a 5-star safety rating, 98% score on safety-assist features, and 91% for child occupancy safety, the Model S Plaid is as much a family vehicle as any sedan you would find.
Of course, it is a Tesla, so it comes with a stellar infotainment system, state-of-the-art customizable features, comfortable seats, and a slick interior and exterior design.
2. 2023 Tesla Model X Plaid – $138,990
Like the Model S, the Plaid is the most expensive version of the Model X. However, as a small SUV with 1020 horsepower and a curb weight just shy of 5,390 lbs, the Model X is similar in size to the Model Y. The only difference is that it’s nearly double the price.
Tesla boasts that the Model X Plaid is the highest-performing, fastest SUV in history. So, does it live up to their claims? Let’s find out.
Model X Plaid Range and Power
With a range of 333 miles and a 100kWh, 407V lithium-ion battery, the Model X Plaid doesn’t stray too far from others on this list. However, in terms of performance, the Model X Plaid can go from 0 to 60 mph in 2.5 seconds, shattering previous records for SUVs. That’s a full 1.3 seconds faster than the standard Model X.
Moreover, the Model X Plaid also boasts a towing capacity of 5000 lbs, which is very high for its size, comparable to much larger SUVs like a Toyota 4Runner.
Model X Plaid Features
In many ways, the Model X is similar to the Model Y. Once again, you can choose between 5 or 7 seats at an additional price for an extra row of seating.
It also has plenty of great user features, including auto lane change, autopilot navigation, and smart summon. It also has front-loading storage as well as a rear trunk for bigger hauls!
However, in terms of style and performance, it couldn’t be more different. The falcon-wing doors, futuristic design, new steering yoke, incredible powertrain, and three independent motors make the Model X Plaid a force to be reckoned with in the EV world.
With some upgrades to the model, you can potentially see up to 397 miles on the highway, making this a practical family model for road trips or longer hauls.
Of course, the Model X Plaid also comes with some luxurious features inside, futuristic displays, sleek design, and more.
1. 2023 Tesla Founders Series Roadster – $250,000
The most expensive Tesla model is the 2023 Founders Series Roadster that will set you back $250,000.
Moreover, this impressive sports car is one of the most hyped cars in history. It’s an electric sports car weighing between 4,400 and 4,700 lbs (much heavier than the first-generation Roadster), mostly due to the battery and incredible motor system.
The Founders Series in Tesla terminology refers to the cars that are the first-produced priority deliveries. In contrast with the regular Roadster, the Founders Series Roadsters will be the first 1,000 vehicles to be produced, they each have a low VIN and a Founders Series badge showcased on the rear of the vehicle.
One of the key reasons why this series is so expensive is how limited the series is. Tesla only intends to make 1000 of these models in 2023, making it the rarest of all Tesla models.
However, the Founders Series models still have the performance to justify their high price tag. Let’s get right into it.
Founders Series Roadster Range and Performance
Like the regular Roadster, the Founders Series Roadster accelerates from 0 to 60 in 1.9 seconds, which is an unprecedented world record for any vehicle in history. Yes, the Roadster is one of the fastest street-legal vehicles ever made.
Also, would you believe us if we told you that it has a 620-mile range? That’s due to the 200kWh lithium-ion battery and three electronic motors for maximal performance. It’s also sporting all-wheel drive for maximal speed, performance, and handling.
Founders Series Roadster Features
The regular Roadster is quite impressive in its own right. At $200,000, it deserves its own spot on this list. However, the Founders Series Roadster costs an extra $50,000, earning our number-one spot. Perhaps it’s worth the extra dough if you’re a collector.
At first glance, they are quite similar in style and performance. The original Roadster has the same acceleration, 200kWh battery, and curb weight. However, the Founders Series offers more unique features like the Founders Series badge and other features that are not disclosed yet.
Keep in mind, this is a performance vehicle. There is limited information on its safety features, and it is far from a family vehicle. Still, if you want a status symbol that can truly perform, fewer choices are as up-to-date as the Founders Series Roadster!
Interested in the Most Expensive Tesla Models?
Now that you know some of the most expensive Tesla models, you can see why it’s a luxury brand. They certainly aren’t giving these models away, but some of the base prices are fairly reasonable when you consider their speed, power, and luxurious features.
See if you can test drive one of these bad boys today, and keep reading our blog to learn more about the most expensive items in the world!