A Disruptive Price Claim
Elon Musk has sparked a firestorm with claims of a 2025 Tesla Model 2 priced at just $13,759, positioning it as a direct threat to competitors like BYD in the affordable EV market. Circulating on platforms like YouTube, these announcements suggest a revolutionary compact EV to dominate the U.S. and Europe. However, skepticism surrounds the price, as no official Tesla statement confirms $13,759, and industry realities point to a more realistic $25,000-$30,000 range. Is this a bold Musk promise or exaggerated hype? Let’s dive in.
Expected Features & Design
Codenamed “Redwood,” the Tesla Model 2 is rumored to be a compact crossover or hatchback, drawing design cues from the Model Y with sleek LED headlights and a minimalist aesthetic. It’s expected to use cost-efficient LFP batteries (likely from CATL) for a 250-300 mile range. Features may include a 15-inch central touchscreen, standard Autopilot, over-the-air updates, and a vegan interior. While autonomous driving is a Musk priority, the base model may skip Full Self-Driving to hit lower costs.
- Compact design, Model Y-inspired styling
- 15-inch touchscreen with Tesla UI
- 250-300 mile range with LFP batteries
- Autopilot standard, FSD optional
- Supercharger-compatible (250 kW)
Key Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Battery | LFP, ~53-60 kWh |
| Range | 250-300 miles (estimated) |
| Power | ~150-200 bhp (single motor) |
| Price | $25,000-$30,000 (likely) |
| Release Date | Mid-2025 (production start) |
The $13,759 claim is unverified and likely unrealistic without massive subsidies or tariff exemptions.
Why It’s Making Waves
The Model 2 aims to undercut the $38,990 Model 3 and gas-powered rivals like the $23,950 Honda Civic, potentially with a $7,500 U.S. tax credit. Tesla’s plan to produce 10,000 units weekly at Giga Texas, with factories in Mexico and Berlin, signals huge ambitions. However, Musk’s October 2024 pivot toward the $30,000 Cybercab and doubts about a $25,000 non-autonomous EV raise questions. X posts are split—some see it crushing BYD’s $15,000 Seagull, while others call the price “clickbait.” BYD’s 416,000 Q1 2025 sales dwarf Tesla’s 336,681, showing the real challenge.
The Road Ahead
Production is slated for June 2025 at Giga Texas, with a possible reveal at a Q1 2025 investor event. The $13,759 price seems improbable due to battery costs and tariffs, with $25,000-$28,000 more feasible using Tesla’s “unboxed” manufacturing. Check tesla.com for official updates. If Tesla delivers a sub-$30,000 EV with 250+ miles, it could shake up the market—but don’t bank on $13,759 just yet.