If you're in the market for a new Tesla Model X SUV but can't justify parting with such a large amount of money, today's news may be right up your alley.
Tesla on Wednesday rolled out a new option for the Model X which it is calling the 60D. Starting at $74,000, the 60D's battery is said to be good for a range of 200 miles between charges. In terms of performance, it'll shoot you from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.0 seconds with a top speed of 130 miles per hour.
For comparison, the Model X 75D starts around $80,000 and carries a range rating of 237 miles. The high-end 90D is good for 257 miles between charges.
Interestingly enough, the 60D carries the same size battery as the more expensive Model X 75D which is a 75 kWh unit. To create this new entry-level class, Tesla has simply limited the output of the battery artificially via software. This means that, down the road, a Model X 60D owner can pay to have the additional range unlocked.
Tesla did the same thing with its Model S line in June, introducing two lower-end configurations in the Model S 60 and 60D. Like the Model X, both of these vehicles also carry a larger 75 kWh battery that's been limited through software. Pricing for the base Model S starts at $66,000.