A Washington-based car dealership recently highlighted a 2017 Tesla Model S for sale at approximately $20,000, drawing significant interest on social media. The appealing price point is partly due to its eligibility for a federal electric vehicle rebate, which is set to conclude soon. The vehicle, likely a Model S 75D variant, boasts an estimated range of 259 miles, rapid acceleration, and a comfortable interior with modern amenities such as a digital touchscreen, panoramic sunroof, and a high-quality sound system. While the prospect of owning a Tesla at this price is tempting, particularly if it includes free supercharging, potential buyers must weigh these benefits against several crucial considerations.
However, acquiring an older Tesla Model S comes with potential drawbacks, primarily concerning battery longevity and range accuracy. Many online discussions reveal that used Tesla owners frequently face substantial battery replacement costs, with the original eight-year, 150,000-mile warranty for the 2017 model likely expired or nearing its end. Additionally, Tesla's reported range estimates have been a point of contention, with some owners experiencing significantly less actual range than advertised. This issue is serious enough that the U.S. Department of Justice is reportedly investigating Tesla regarding these claims. Furthermore, consumer reports indicate that the 2017 Model S may be less reliable than newer vehicles, citing various recalls related to its electrical system, seat belts, steering, and even issues with its forward collision avoidance system causing unexpected stops. The infotainment system in older models might also require costly upgrades, adding to the overall expense.
The financial implications of maintaining a used Tesla, particularly concerning its battery, can be significant. Industry sources suggest that replacing a Tesla's lithium-ion battery can cost anywhere from $12,000 to $22,000, a sum comparable to purchasing a new entry-level car. While Tesla CEO Elon Musk once stated that battery modules should last for 300,000 to 500,000 miles, some owners have reported failures much earlier. Fortunately, a growing market of independent repair shops offers battery repair services at a fraction of the replacement cost, potentially around $5,000 to $6,000. Therefore, anyone considering a used Tesla should thoroughly research potential high-cost repairs and seek out reputable third-party service centers.
Considering these factors, prospective buyers should approach the purchase of a used Tesla with a clear understanding of both its advantages and the potential long-term financial commitments. Thorough research into vehicle history, remaining warranty coverage, and local repair options is essential to ensure a positive ownership experience. By being well-informed and prepared for potential maintenance needs, buyers can still enjoy the benefits of electric vehicle ownership and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Lucid Motors is expanding its electric vehicle lineup by introducing a new mid-size EV with an anticipated price point of approximately $50,000. This new addition follows the success of its luxury sedan, the Air, and an upcoming electric SUV. This strategic move is poised to increase the accessibility of Lucid's advanced electric technology to a broader market, directly challenging popular models in the mid-size EV segment, such as the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y. The company's vision involves democratizing sophisticated electric mobility, building on its foundational commitment to innovation and cost reduction in EV production.
Lucid's former CEO, Peter Rawlinson, previously articulated the company's ambition to significantly lower EV manufacturing costs through breakthroughs in battery and powertrain technologies. This objective has already been demonstrated with the Lucid Air, which has seen its entry-level price substantially decrease since its 2021 debut. Initially launched at $169,000 for the Dream Edition, the 2025 Lucid Air is now available for under $70,000, illustrating the company's progress in making its vehicles more affordable. This new $50,000 mid-size EV represents the next phase of this strategy, leveraging an entirely new platform designed to support a family of more budget-friendly electric vehicles.
The newly confirmed mid-size EV is expected to draw inspiration from the Gravity X concept, an all-terrain, enhanced version of Lucid's electric SUV. The Gravity X, revealed last month, features robust off-road enhancements including all-terrain tires, a lifted suspension, and a more aggressive stance, along with a unique roof rack system integrated with LED lights. The interior of the Gravity X concept boasts premium amenities such as leather seats, high-performance floor mats, and a microsuede steering wheel, signaling Lucid's intention to maintain a high standard of luxury and capability even in its more affordable offerings. The confirmation of a production model based on this concept underscores Lucid's commitment to delivering versatile and adventurous electric vehicles.
Lucid's interim CEO, Marc Winterhoff, recently confirmed at the Munich Motor Show that the company has secured sufficient funding to sustain operations until the latter half of the upcoming year, when production of the mid-size platform is scheduled to commence. While the standard mid-size SUV will be the initial focus, further capital will be necessary to scale up production effectively. This rugged mid-size SUV is projected to launch in early 2027, with a sedan variant to follow shortly thereafter. This competitive offering is anticipated to rival vehicles like the Rivian R2/R3, Jeep Recon, and Scout Terra, aiming to capture a significant share of the expanding market for affordable, capable electric vehicles. Furthermore, discussions hint at the potential availability of the mid-size platform for fleet applications, including Lucid's Gravity robotaxis, as part of its collaboration with Uber.
Lucid is strategically positioning itself to address a broader consumer base by introducing this more accessible electric vehicle. This move signifies not only a commitment to scaling production and diversifying its portfolio but also a bold step towards reshaping the electric vehicle landscape. By offering a compelling combination of performance, luxury, and affordability, Lucid aims to solidify its standing as a key innovator in the automotive industry, making sustainable transportation a reality for more individuals.
Driving the Future: BYD's Vision for European Electromobility
Unveiling Strategic Moves: BYD's Dominance at IAA Munich
At the recent IAA Munich automotive exhibition, a clear contrast emerged: while European manufacturers largely adopted a defensive stance, Chinese counterparts, particularly BYD, launched an assertive offensive. European brands like Volkswagen, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz presented their future electric and autonomous concepts, yet it was evident they are striving to match the advancements already present in Chinese automotive technology. BYD, a leading force from China, stood out as the most proactive player, showcasing its ambitious plans for the European market. Having already made significant inroads, with its vehicles increasingly visible across major European cities and even surpassing Tesla in continent-wide sales, BYD's presence at IAA Munich underscored its firm commitment to establishing a lasting foothold.
Expanding the European Portfolio: A Vehicle for Every Need
Stella Li, Executive Vice President of BYD, delivered a keynote emphasizing the company's expanding European product line. This diverse range now spans from the economical Dolphin Surf (also known as the Seagull) to the luxurious offerings from its premium Denza brand. A notable strategic inclusion, signaling BYD's deep understanding of the European market, is the introduction of a wagon — a vehicle type less popular in American and Chinese markets but highly cherished in Europe. The new BYD Seal 6 DM-i Touring, a plug-in hybrid wagon, is specifically designed to achieve substantial sales, addressing the dynamic yet sometimes unpredictable adoption rate of electric vehicles in Europe. This model, slightly larger than an Audi A4 Avant, combines a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine with a 19-kilowatt-hour LFP battery, boasting an impressive total range of 1,300 kilometers (approximately 800 miles) on Europe's WLTP testing cycle. Despite initial plans to only offer EVs, BYD now has more plug-in hybrids destined for the European market.
Local Production and Global Ambition: Strengthening European Ties
BYD is not merely importing vehicles; it's investing in the region's manufacturing capabilities. Li announced that by 2028, all BYD electric vehicles sold in Europe will be produced within Europe. This strategic move aims to circumvent potential anti-China tariffs and cement a durable presence in the market. Li openly acknowledged this strategy, stating their intention to become "more European in production." The company is set to commence vehicle manufacturing at its Hungary plant this year, with a second factory in Hungary expected to be operational next year. Furthermore, BYD's luxury brand, Yangwang, is slated for a European launch in 2027, further diversifying its market offerings.
Revolutionizing Charging: The Dawn of Megawatt Technology in Europe
Perhaps the most impactful announcement from BYD was the imminent deployment of its megawatt charging technology across Europe. This advanced 1,000-kilowatt fast-charging system, which Li claims can add 400 kilometers (250 miles) of range in a mere five minutes, was prominently displayed in Munich. Dubbed "Flash" charging, this system aims to make electric vehicle charging as rapid and convenient as traditional gasoline refueling, a truly transformative development for the industry. Having witnessed this technology firsthand in China, the author was deeply impressed by its efficiency. While these 1,000-kW speeds are currently achievable only with compatible chargers and vehicles (predominantly BYD models), this innovation is expected to spur wider industry adoption and significantly accelerate charging times across the board. BYD plans to establish 200 to 300 such charging stations by the second quarter of 2026, with all Denza vehicles launching with Flash charging capabilities. Although BYD was one among several Chinese automakers making a strong showing at IAA Munich, its comprehensive and forward-thinking strategy positions it as the most serious and enduring contender in the European market.