Tesla to Eliminate Some Model S Options

2014 Tesla Model S (Credit: Tesla Motors )

Even though Tesla recently showed off a few new versions of the Model S, which use a dual-motor all-wheel drive system, the number of options for the car are actually set to decrease. In an effort to streamline its offerings, the automaker is looking to cut out some colors, optional equipment, and other variants that up to this point car shoppers have been able to choose. According to Musk, this change in the Model S lineup will make it easier to fire up production of the car, which benefits the company and consumers.

On the chopping block for 2015 are the P85 and P85+ models, both of which are rear-wheel drive options that pack a 416 horsepower punch. Those are replaced by the P85D, which of course comes with all-wheel drive. Lest anyone be saddened by the shift, know that the P85D puts out 691 horsepower. Sometimes change is a good thing.

Of course, with greater power comes greater responsibility, or at least a higher price tag. The base price of the P85D is $104,500, which is almost $20,000 higher than the 85D. Of course, the increased price covers the increased performance drivers get to enjoy on a daily basis. Industry analysts are observing that the price of the P85D puts it in direct competition with vehicles like the BMW M5 and Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG.

Another big change is the discontinuation of the 60D, which was the bottom-of-the-line all-wheel drive Model S. The car was never made for consumers, so most people will never know the difference.

There will be only six colors available for the 2015 Tesla Model S: white, silver, black, grey, red and blue. Green and brown both didn’t make the cut for whatever reasons. A few options like the Lacewood trim for the interior and performance leather upholstery are also being dropped. If buyers want to add fog lights and parking sensors, the only way to do so will be through the tech package, which costs $4,250 and is the only way to get updates for the car’s autopilot system.