The Model 3s consideration as
The Model 3s consideration as being an affordable car is not based solely on the special lowest price model alone. Different states have different discounts and subsidies. The MSRP of the Leaf Plus, Hyundai/kia EVs, Bolt and other similar EVs all start at about the same $39K as the Model 3 Standard Range Plus. Some of them have extra features included at that price, and that Model 3 has some extra features included as well. Right now, the average new car price in the U.S. is $37,590. And that qualifies the Tesla Model 3 as affordable to most people, being right in the middle price-wise. Especially when you consider the operating and maintenance costs of the Model 3 compared to gas cars that are cheaper to buy initially. In California, that explains why it is the third best selling new car, and the 6th best selling car in the U.S. this quarter.