Tesla is killing off the Model S and Model X | TechCrunch

Tesla is ending production of the Model S sedan and Model X SUV, CEO Elon Musk announced Wednesday on a conference call. The company will make the final versions of both electric vehicles next quarter, he said.

Musk said Tesla will build Optimus robots instead in the same factory space in Fremont, California. Musk said his company will offer support for existing Model S and Model X owners “for as long as people have the vehicles.”

“It’s time to basically bring the Model S and X programs to an end with an honorable discharge, because we’re really moving into a future that is based on autonomy,” he said. “So if you’re interested in buying a Model S and X, now would be the time to order it.”

Tesla launched the Model S in 2012, and it is regarded as the first car that made electric vehicles widely appealing. The Model X was Tesla’s second major electric vehicle program. But sales of both models have flatlined in recent years, despite interior and exterior refreshes along the way.

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