The Tesla Model X SUV family just gained a lower-priced sibling. The $74,000 Tesla Model X 60D is a software-limited version of the current Model X 75D, as reported on Electrek .
The only difference between the Model X 60D and the 75D is the software block. The “D” in the model designations indicates all-wheel drive. Both models can accelerate from 0 to 60 in 6.0 seconds and can achieve a 130 mph top speed. What you lose with the limited battery power is a rated 37 miles of range. The 60D’s nominal range is 200 miles and the 75D can carry you 237 miles on a charge. If at a later time you decide you really need the extra 37 miles per charge, you can pay $9,000 to unlock the software, wait for the download, and you’re good to go.
Tesla used the same battery access limiting software when it introduced the rear-wheel-drive Tesla Model S 60 — again, for $9,000 you can suddenly have the same battery power as the Model S 75. With the S versions, the drop from 75kWh in the unlocked Model S 75 to the S 60 represents a 39-mile decrease in driving range from 249 to 210.
Electrek quoted the following from Tesla about the Model S 60D: “Model X is the safest, quickest, and most capable sport utility vehicle in history, and existing Model X owners are loving their cars. Following on the success of Model S 60 and 60D and in order to bring the benefits of Tesla ownership to even more people, today we’re introducing Model X 60D at a starting price of $74,000 — giving customers the flexibility to choose the Tesla model, price point and range that best fits their lifestyle. Our versatile product platform and efficient manufacturing processes make it possible to seamlessly extend these types of compelling offerings to customers.”
At least one among those who are “loving their cars” is a Model X owner who recently crashed in Montana with its semi-autonomous driving Autopilot feature engaged, according to CNN Money. His Tesla Model X had a collision on Saturday, July 9, 2016 in which the passenger side of the vehicle was in large part ripped off, though no one was injured.
The owner stated that he’d buy another Tesla, even though he wasn’t sure if the collision was his fault. Tesla issued a statement that according to their data the car issued alarms to take the wheel and the driver did not do so. The driver told CNN Money that he speaks only Mandarin. The Tesla alerts are in English.
