X

Tesla reportedly reinstates free Supercharging for new Model 3 owners in sales push

As the third quarter of the year ends, Tesla wants to pump its sales numbers up.

2018 Tesla Model 3 Performance
Enlarge Image
2018 Tesla Model 3 Performance

Free Supercharging for two years could tempt more buyers.

Nick Miotke/Roadshow

Pondering a Tesla ? Now might be the time to get one.

According to a report Friday from Electrek, citing anonymous sources, Tesla has given the OK to its sales personnel to offer two years of free supercharging with every new Model 3. Tesla has often bounced around with its free Supercharging program. Originally, all owners received free use of Supercharger stations. Then, the company took the perk away before reinstating it again in 2017. In another reshuffling, it was relegated to a referral perk. Finally, it returned in August of this year for Model S and Model X buyers.

Now, it appears any new buyer will get two years of access for free with a Model 3 purchase.

Additionally, the unnamed sources claimed that salespeople are authorized to waive fees associated with extra-cost options. Effectively, Tesla will discount a new and in-stock car to match a less expensive order someone's placed. Per the website, the discounts are limited to optional and more costly wheels, paint colors and interior finishes. Any color other than white costs more, as do the premium 19-inch wheels and white interior finish.

The only catch on the discounts: A buyer needs to take delivery by the end of the month. Obviously, it will let Tesla slap another tally mark on the sales sheet before the third quarter ends on Sept. 30.

Tesla did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the free Supercharging perk or the discounts.

A quick trip to Tesla's website also shows loan terms are more favorable. Those interested in financing a Model 3 can take the loan out for 72 months with no money down and a 3.99% APR. A lease payment still requires a $2,500 deposit and $3,500 down on the lease.

Tesla Model 3 barrels through the snow in Track Mode

See all photos
Watch this: Tesla Model 3 Performance lives up to its name, but still falls short of perfect
Sean Szymkowski
It all started with Gran Turismo. From those early PlayStation days, Sean was drawn to anything with four wheels. Prior to joining the Roadshow team, he was a freelance contributor for Motor Authority, The Car Connection and Green Car Reports. As for what's in the garage, Sean owns a 2016 Chevrolet SS, and yes, it has Holden badges.
Sean Szymkowski
It all started with Gran Turismo. From those early PlayStation days, Sean was drawn to anything with four wheels. Prior to joining the Roadshow team, he was a freelance contributor for Motor Authority, The Car Connection and Green Car Reports. As for what's in the garage, Sean owns a 2016 Chevrolet SS, and yes, it has Holden badges.

Article updated on September 13, 2019 at 1:34 PM PDT

Our Experts

Written by 
Sean Szymkowski
CNET staff -- not advertisers, partners or business interests -- determine how we review the products and services we cover. If you buy through our links, we may get paid. Reviews ethics statement
Sean Szymkowski
It all started with Gran Turismo. From those early PlayStation days, Sean was drawn to anything with four wheels. Prior to joining the Roadshow team, he was a freelance contributor for Motor Authority, The Car Connection and Green Car Reports. As for what's in the garage, Sean owns a 2016 Chevrolet SS, and yes, it has Holden badges.
Why You Can Trust CNET
174175176177178179180+
Experts Interviewed
030405060708091011121314+
Companies Reviewed
108109110111112113+
Products Reviewed

We thoroughly evaluate each company and product we review and ensure our stories meet our high editorial standards.