Tesla has quietly removed the order configurators for its flagship Model S and Model X vehicles from its Chinese website, leaving potential customers with only inventory options for these premium electric vehicles.
The change, which happened without formal announcement, means Chinese customers can no longer custom-order these California-manufactured vehicles. Instead, they must select from whatever pre-configured inventory models remain available in the country.
Industry analysts point to the current trade environment as the probable catalyst for Tesla’s decision. Unlike the Model 3 and Model Y, which are produced at Tesla’s Shanghai Gigafactory, the Model S and Model X are manufactured exclusively in Fremont, California—subjecting them to China’s import duties.
“The removal of the Model S and Model X configurators appears to be a direct response to the tariff situation between the US and China,” said an automotive industry consultant who requested anonymity. “Tesla’s likely making a calculated business decision rather than maintaining options that aren’t economically viable under current trade conditions.”
This change effectively positions Tesla’s Shanghai-built Model 3 and Model Y as the company’s primary offerings in China. Locally-manufactured vehicles avoid the import tariffs that have apparently made the Model S and Model X less competitive in the Chinese market.
Will Tesla eventually bring Model S and Model X production to its Giga Shanghai?
Related Post
Tesla Model S and X 2025 Refresh: New Features Coming to Premium Electric Vehicles
Tesla V4 Supercharger Launch in China Coming Soon, Offering Compatibility with 3-Party EVs
Tesla Slashes New Model Y Price by $11K: Launch Series Gone, New Base Model Available Now