Tesla has revolutionized the automotive world with its sleek electric vehicles, cutting-edge technology, and autonomous driving capabilities. Many people are curious about how much it costs to own a Tesla that can drive itself. This article will guide you through the pricing of different Tesla models, the cost of adding Tesla’s self-driving features, and other factors that influence the final price.
What Is Tesla’s Full Self-Driving Feature?
Before diving into the costs, it’s important to understand what Tesla means by “self-driving.” Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) package offers advanced autonomous driving capabilities, but it’s important to note that no Tesla car is fully autonomous yet. Tesla’s Full Self-Driving package allows the vehicle to perform tasks like:
- Navigate on highways
- Change lanes automatically
- Park itself
- Respond to traffic signals
- Navigate in complex city streets (in development)
However, the driver must always remain attentive and ready to take control. Tesla promises that with future software updates, the car will be fully autonomous, but we aren’t quite there yet.
Tesla Models That Support Self-Driving
Tesla offers several car models, each compatible with its Full Self-Driving software. These models include:
- Tesla Model 3
- Tesla Model S
- Tesla Model X
- Tesla Model Y
Each model has its own price range, and the cost of self-driving features is added on top of the base price.
Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 is Tesla’s most affordable model. It’s a compact sedan with impressive performance and a range of around 270 to 358 miles, depending on the variant you choose. The base price of the Tesla Model 3 starts at around $40,000.
- Base Price: $40,000
- Full Self-Driving (FSD) Package: $15,000
- Total Cost: $55,000 (for a Tesla Model 3 with FSD)
Tesla Model S
The Tesla Model S is a luxury sedan with more range and performance than the Model 3. It boasts a range of 396 to 520 miles and a price that reflects its premium status. The base price for the Tesla Model S starts at around $85,000.
- Base Price: $85,000
- Full Self-Driving (FSD) Package: $15,000
- Total Cost: $100,000 (for a Tesla Model S with FSD)
Tesla Model X
The Tesla Model X is Tesla’s luxury SUV with distinctive falcon-wing doors. It offers a range of up to 348 miles and ample space for families. The starting price for the Tesla Model X is around $95,000.
- Base Price: $95,000
- Full Self-Driving (FSD) Package: $15,000
- Total Cost: $110,000 (for a Tesla Model X with FSD)
Tesla Model Y
The Tesla Model Y is a smaller SUV and a more affordable alternative to the Model X. It offers a range of around 303 to 330 miles, depending on the version. The base price of the Tesla Model Y is approximately $50,000.
- Base Price: $50,000
- Full Self-Driving (FSD) Package: $15,000
- Total Cost: $65,000 (for a Tesla Model Y with FSD)
The Cost of Tesla’s Full Self-Driving Package
The Full Self-Driving (FSD) package adds $15,000 to the price of any Tesla. However, Tesla also offers a more limited autonomous driving option called Autopilot, which comes as a standard feature in all Tesla models. Autopilot can:
- Steer within a lane
- Accelerate and brake based on the flow of traffic
While Autopilot provides a taste of self-driving technology, it doesn’t include many of the more advanced features that come with the FSD package.
Subscription Option for Full Self-Driving
Tesla also provides a subscription option for the Full Self-Driving package for drivers who don’t want to pay the full $15,000 upfront. The cost of subscribing to FSD is $199 per month. This option is ideal for those who want to experience FSD without committing to a one-time purchase.
Calculating the Subscription Cost Over Time
If you plan to keep the Tesla for a long time, it’s important to consider the long-term costs of subscribing to FSD. Over a five-year period, a subscription to the FSD package would cost about $11,940 ($199 x 60 months). While this is cheaper than the $15,000 one-time fee, it might not make sense if you plan to own the car for longer than five years.
Over-the-Air Updates
One of the benefits of Tesla’s Full Self-Driving package is that it continuously improves. Tesla regularly releases over-the-air software updates that enhance the car’s autonomous driving capabilities. This means that even after purchasing the FSD package, the car will continue to receive new features and performance improvements without needing any physical changes to the vehicle.
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Additional Costs to Consider
When calculating the cost of a Tesla that drives itself, there are a few additional factors to keep in mind.
Taxes and Fees
Just like any car purchase, buying a Tesla involves state and local taxes, registration fees, and possibly other fees, depending on where you live. These costs vary widely by location, but they can add several thousand dollars to the final price of the vehicle.
Charging Equipment
While Tesla vehicles can charge at any electric vehicle charging station, many owners choose to install a Tesla Wall Connector at home for faster charging. The cost of a Tesla Wall Connector is around $500, and installation can cost another $1,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the setup.
Insurance
Since Teslas are technologically advanced and relatively expensive vehicles, insurance premiums for Tesla cars can be higher than average. The price of insurance depends on factors such as your driving record, location, and the specific model you choose.
Maintenance and Repairs
While electric vehicles like Teslas generally have lower maintenance costs than traditional gas-powered cars, it’s important to remember that some repairs, especially those involving Tesla’s advanced software or unique parts, can be costly. However, Tesla offers warranties that cover certain repairs for a set number of years or miles, helping to offset these costs.
Is a Tesla That Drives Itself Worth It?
Now that you know the cost, you may be wondering if investing in a Tesla with Full Self-Driving capabilities is worth it. Here are some things to consider:
Future Potential: Tesla’s Full Self-Driving package is designed to improve over time, and eventually, it could become a fully autonomous system. If you believe in Tesla’s vision, this package could be a good investment.
Convenience: The current Full Self-Driving features offer a high level of convenience, especially for long road trips or navigating in heavy traffic. However, it’s important to remember that Tesla still requires drivers to stay alert and ready to take control.
Cost: The FSD package is a significant addition to the car’s price. If you are looking for a more affordable option, Tesla’s standard Autopilot may be sufficient for your needs.
Conclusion
The cost of owning a Tesla that can drive itself depends on the model you choose and whether you opt for the Full Self-Driving package or subscribe to it monthly. In 2024, Tesla’s Full Self-Driving package costs $15,000, with the option to subscribe for $199 per month. Whether you choose a more affordable Model 3 or the luxury Model X, adding self-driving capabilities will increase the total cost. However, for many, the potential of owning a car that drives itself is worth the investment.
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