Tesla's cheapest car is no longer available

Tesla has quietly discontinued its least expensive Model 3 variant. Electrek reported on Wednesday that the Model 3 Standard Range is no longer available for purchase on Tesla's online configurator in the U.S., with no official announcement from the company.

That version, which cost $38,990 and has only the rear motor and less range than the other variants, was by far the most affordable car in Tesla's lineup.

Now, the cheapest Tesla you can buy in the U.S. is the $42,490 Model 3 Long Range Rear-Wheel drive, which also only has one motor, but has a larger battery pack and offers more range.

The change happened roughly at the same time as Tesla's quarterly earnings report, which showed that the company delivered 426,890 vehicles in the third quarter, slightly less than expected. 

While the reason behind Tesla's decision is unclear, Electrek suggests it may be linked to the sourcing of the batteries in the Standard Range Model 3, which are from China. With the recent increase in U.S. tariffs on Chinese battery cells, it could be challenging for Tesla to use them in the vehicle while still qualifying for the full $7,500 electric vehicle tax credit.

Of course, if you can get the $7,500 federal tax credit, the Model 3 Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive can be had for $34,990, which is still a pretty good deal.