Elon Musk has officially ended the 14-year production run of Tesla’s Model S and Model X, marking the close of an era for the vehicles that once defined the electric vehicle (EV) revolution. With custom orders no longer accepted and only about 600 units remaining in global inventory, Tesla is shifting its focus toward its autonomy initiatives and the production of its Optimus humanoid robots. The move, first hinted at during Tesla’s Q4 2025 earnings call in January 2025, underscores the company’s strategic pivot away from traditional passenger vehicles and toward a future centered on artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics.
The End of an Era: Why Tesla’s Model S and X Are Discontinuing Production
Tesla’s decision to halt production of the Model S and Model X comes as little surprise given the vehicles’ declining sales and the company’s strategic realignment. In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on [insert date if available], Musk shared a nostalgic image from the original Model S launch at Tesla’s Fremont factory in June 2012, accompanied by a message: 'Custom orders of the Tesla Model S & X have come to an end. All that’s left are some in inventory. We will have an official ceremony to mark the ending of an era. I love those cars.' The announcement follows Musk’s earlier comments during Tesla’s Q4 2025 earnings call, where he described the discontinuation as an 'honorable discharge' for the two vehicles. 'If you’re interested in buying a Model S and X, now would be the time to order it,' Musk urged, signaling the urgency for potential buyers to secure one of the remaining units.
A Shift Toward Autonomy and Robotics
The end of Model S and X production is not merely a business decision—it reflects Tesla’s broader strategic vision. According to Lars Moravy, Tesla’s Vice President of Vehicle Engineering, the Fremont factory’s production lines are being reconfigured to manufacture the company’s Optimus humanoid robots. This transition aligns with Tesla’s long-term goal of focusing on 'transportation as a service' rather than traditional vehicle sales. The move also highlights Tesla’s bet on autonomy, where the company sees greater potential for growth and innovation compared to the luxury sedan and SUV segments.
The Legacy of the Model S and X: How These EVs Revolutionized the Auto Industry
The Model S, launched in June 2012, was Tesla’s first mass-market electric vehicle and a landmark in automotive history. It quickly became the world’s best-selling plug-in electric vehicle in both 2015 and 2016, with over 50,000 units sold in 2015 alone. The Model X, introduced in 2015, pushed the boundaries of electric SUV design with its signature falcon-wing doors. Together, the two models have accounted for over 610,000 deliveries during their production runs, cementing Tesla’s reputation as a pioneer in the EV industry.
The Decline: Why Sales of the Model S and X Plummeted
Despite their groundbreaking legacy, the Model S and X have struggled in recent years due to a combination of factors, including increased competition and Tesla’s own strategic shifts. In 2023, Tesla stopped breaking out individual sales figures for the Model S and X, instead grouping them into an 'Other Models' category alongside the Cybertruck and Tesla Semi. This move, as reported by industry analysts, appeared designed to obscure the declining sales of the two vehicles. In 2025, the 'Other Models' category—which included the Model S, X, Cybertruck, and Semi—delivered just 50,850 units for the entire year. Analysts estimate that the Model S and X accounted for roughly 30,000 of those units, a fraction of the 100,000-unit annual production capacity at the Fremont factory.
The Impact of the 2025 Refresh and Rising Competition
Tesla attempted to revive demand for the Model S and X with a refresh in June 2025, which included new paint colors, a front bumper camera, improved range, and ambient lighting. However, the changes came with a $5,000 price increase, and the updates were widely seen as too little, too late. The vehicles now face stiff competition from newer luxury EVs, including models from Mercedes, BMW, Porsche, and Lucid, which have captured the attention of affluent buyers with cutting-edge technology and design.
The Inventory Reality: How Many Model S and X Units Remain
As of the latest data from EV-CPO, Tesla has approximately 295 new Model S units and 301 new Model X units left in global inventory, with nearly all of them located in the United States. Canada and Europe have zero new units remaining, leaving buyers in those regions with no options unless they consider used models. Tesla’s website no longer offers a configurator for either vehicle, and potential buyers can only browse pre-configured inventory units. To incentivize purchases, Tesla is offering discounts ranging from $1,600 to over $7,000, depending on the location and whether the vehicle was used as a demo unit. Additionally, remaining inventory units come with free DC fast charging at Tesla Superchargers and free lifetime Premium Connectivity.
The Broader Implications: What Tesla’s Move Means for the EV Market
Tesla’s decision to discontinue the Model S and X is more than just the end of two iconic vehicles—it signals a broader shift in the company’s priorities. By reallocating the Fremont factory’s production lines to Optimus robots, Tesla is doubling down on its vision for the future, where AI and robotics play a central role. This pivot raises questions about the company’s long-term commitment to passenger vehicles and whether it will continue to innovate in the luxury EV segment. For competitors like Mercedes, BMW, and Porsche, Tesla’s retreat from the high-end sedan and SUV markets presents an opportunity to capture market share with their own electric offerings.
Key Takeaways: What You Need to Know About Tesla’s Model S and X Discontinuation
- Tesla has officially ended production of the Model S and Model X after 14 years, with only about 600 units remaining in global inventory.
- The decision reflects Tesla’s strategic shift toward autonomy and humanoid robot production, including the Optimus robot.
- Sales of the Model S and X have declined sharply, with estimates suggesting just 30,000 units sold in 2025, down from a production capacity of 100,000 units.
- Competition from luxury EV brands like Mercedes, BMW, and Porsche has intensified, making it difficult for the Model S and X to maintain their market position.
- Remaining inventory units are available at discounted prices, with incentives like free Supercharger access and lifetime Premium Connectivity.
The Future of Tesla’s Fremont Factory
The Fremont factory, Tesla’s original production site, has been a cornerstone of the company’s manufacturing operations since the Model S launch in 2012. With the end of Model S and X production, the facility is being reconfigured to prioritize the assembly of Tesla’s Optimus humanoid robots. This transition underscores Tesla’s commitment to its long-term vision, where AI-driven automation and robotics take precedence over traditional vehicle manufacturing. While the shift may raise concerns about Tesla’s future in the passenger vehicle market, it aligns with Musk’s broader goal of advancing Tesla’s role in the next generation of technology.
What’s Next for Luxury EVs After Tesla’s Retreat?
Tesla’s exit from the luxury EV segment opens the door for competitors to capture market share. Luxury brands like Mercedes, BMW, and Porsche have invested heavily in their own electric programs, offering vehicles that combine cutting-edge technology with high-end design. The Mercedes EQS, BMW i7, and Porsche Taycan are just a few examples of models that have gained traction in the luxury EV market. With Tesla stepping back, these brands may see an opportunity to attract buyers who previously considered the Model S and X as their top choices.
The Emotional Legacy: Why the Model S and X Will Be Missed
Beyond their sales figures and technical achievements, the Model S and X hold a special place in the hearts of EV enthusiasts and automotive historians. The Model S, in particular, proved that electric vehicles could be desirable, fast, and practical—not just for environmentalists, but for anyone seeking the best sedan on the market. For years, it was the gold standard in the EV industry, setting benchmarks for range, performance, and technology. The Model X, while less commercially successful, pushed the boundaries of electric SUV design with its innovative falcon-wing doors and spacious interior. As production ends, enthusiasts are left to reflect on the impact these vehicles had on the automotive world.
The Model S is the car that proved EVs could be desirable, fast, and practical, not just for environmentalists, but for anyone who wanted the best sedan on the market. For years, it was exactly that.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tesla’s Model S and X Discontinuation
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I still order a new Tesla Model S or Model X?
- No, Tesla is no longer accepting custom orders for the Model S or Model X. Only pre-configured inventory units are available, with roughly 600 units remaining globally.
- What incentives are available for remaining Model S and X inventory?
- Tesla is offering discounts ranging from $1,600 to over $7,000 on remaining inventory units. Buyers also receive free DC fast charging at Tesla Superchargers and free lifetime Premium Connectivity.
- Why did Tesla discontinue the Model S and X?
- Tesla cited a strategic shift toward autonomy and humanoid robot production, including the Optimus robot. The decision also reflects declining sales and increased competition in the luxury EV segment.
