I took delivery of the Model 3 a couple weeks ago. IMO it’s going to be a phenomenal car even with just the base model (ie no autopilot, no leather, no larger battery.) I suggest test driving when able to see what I’m talking about. The instant torque, the balance and stability of the car. It’s just a fun driving experience. Coupled with the safety of the car and the integrated infotainment/controls in the large screen, there’s no car can compare.
So the base model really is 35k. If you’re in California, you get 2500 tax credit + 7500 federal. That’s 25k + tax. Sure it’s not something everyone can afford but definitely not in the expensive luxury toy range. IMO it’s more in the “deal of a lifetime” category than the “expensive luxury toy” category.
Actually, the Federal tax credit was supposed to disappear in the tax bill, but like magic, when the smoke cleared and the dust settled at the end of the all-Republican final negotiations, it was unchanged. I think you misunderstand the current political climate. It's more likely that the phase-out will disappear.
So the base model really is 35k. If you’re in California, you get 2500 tax credit + 7500 federal. That’s 25k + tax. Sure it’s not something everyone can afford but definitely not in the expensive luxury toy range. IMO it’s more in the “deal of a lifetime” category than the “expensive luxury toy” category.