Tesla has started to offer different variants of the Long Range models of the Model 3 and Model Y models. Customers in the US can now choose between models that are eligible for the $7,500 Federal EV Tax Credit and those that are not.
Eligible vs. non-eligible customers
Tesla offers two versions of the Long Range models of the Model 3 and Model Y models. One of these versions qualifies for the tax incentive, the other does not. If you qualify for the tax incentive, you will receive a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for a vehicle that receives the EV Tax Credit. These vehicles have their battery and its cells manufactured in North America.
Customers who are not eligible or do not wish to take advantage of the tax incentive will receive a VIN for a vehicle that does not qualify for the federal incentive. However, these vehicles may still qualify for local or state rebates.
Panasonic vs. LG Batteries
The main difference between the two options lies in the batteries and where they are produced. The Model 3 and Model Y vehicles that qualify for the tax credit contain Panasonic batteries, which are manufactured in the USA. The models that do not qualify for the tax credit contain LG batteries.
Both battery types are not LFP (lithium iron phosphate), but 2170 cells. Despite similar charging speeds and range, there are differences: LG batteries charge on Level 3 chargers, including Tesla-superchargers, slower.
The performance variant of the Model 3 and Model Y also comes with Panasonic batteries. The LFP package in the rear-wheel drive variants of these vehicles also charges faster than the LG batteries.
How to view the vehicles
To see the vehicles with the specific battery packs, you need to select the Tesla-inventory system. Simply go to the inventory section on Tesla's website and activate (Panasonic batteries) or deactivate (LG batteries) the "Tax Credit Eligible Vehicles" switch.
Conclusion
Tesla-Customers in the USA now have the option of selecting their battery suppliers for the Long Range models of the Model 3 and Model Y models. The choice between Panasonic and LG batteries offers flexibility in terms of tax incentives and charging speeds. It will be interesting to see how these options will affect market share and customer satisfaction.
