News
Tesla limits availability of right-hand drive cars
Tesla focuses production on left-hand drive markets for Model S and Model X to likely frustration of UK buyers
Words by: Dan Trent
Published on 15 May 2023 | 0 min read
In a disappointing development for those holding out for a new Tesla Model S or Model X the firm has confirmed it will be ending right-hand drive production for the foreseeable future. This follows previously announced updates to both models and introduction of new high-performance Plaid versions that many fans were holding out for thanks to the promise of over 1,000 horsepower power outputs and novelties like yoke-style steering wheels.
Those already with orders in for a new Model S or X have apparently been offered the opportunity to cancel or take a credit note to put against a Model 3 or Model Y instead, both of which apparently will still be available in right-hand drive. The UK Tesla website indicates you still can buy a Model S or X, with small print below confirming “Only available as left-hand drive”.
Those already with orders in for a new Model S or X have apparently been offered the opportunity to cancel or take a credit note to put against a Model 3 or Model Y instead, both of which apparently will still be available in right-hand drive. The UK Tesla website indicates you still can buy a Model S or X, with small print below confirming “Only available as left-hand drive”.
Whether many British owners would be prepared to put up with that inconvenience for the thrill of driving a Plaid-spec Tesla remains to be seen, Ford meanwhile having fun at Tesla’s expense with a Tweet showing a picture of Mustang Mach-E GT and the caption “Still available in right-hand drive” in all caps.
In typical style Tesla isn’t saying much about the reason for the change in policy, or delay to the Model S and Model X production. Reporting on the topic suggests this may be down to a desire to consolidate and simplify production to satisfy demand that can already be met from America and other left-hand drive markets, others saying there are also some technical complications in the conversion to right-hand drive. This is nothing new in the car industry, where cars designed for predominantly left-hand drive markets like America and Europe sometimes require complex re-engineering of steering and suspension system.
In typical style Tesla isn’t saying much about the reason for the change in policy, or delay to the Model S and Model X production. Reporting on the topic suggests this may be down to a desire to consolidate and simplify production to satisfy demand that can already be met from America and other left-hand drive markets, others saying there are also some technical complications in the conversion to right-hand drive. This is nothing new in the car industry, where cars designed for predominantly left-hand drive markets like America and Europe sometimes require complex re-engineering of steering and suspension system.
