Tesla did not deliver model 3, worth $ 35,000, and could perhaps push a more expensive car instead – Quartz



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The legendary Tesla consumer electric car is yet to materialize.

The company recently sent a message to its customers about the delivery delays of the standard model 3 range at $ 35,000, according to several reports on customer forums summarized by The Drive's automatic information site. Some customers of these online forums claim that company representatives have also tried to sell them, claiming that they could get a vehicle faster if they switched to Model 3 "Plus" or "Long Range", each costing several thousands of dollars more. Tesla declined to comment on reports of late delivery and incentive tactics.

Upselling is a proven tradition at car dealerships. Car dealers, characterized by a sneaky sales tactic, will allow a customer to try a more sophisticated model than he came to buy and then offer him a "contract". Cars can be filled with extras that drive up the price of the sticker. Do you want a different painting? A more sophisticated engine? Heated Seats No problem, this will only add a little bit to your monthly payment. Internet abounds with articles that advise auto dealers on the art of upsell, with tips such as "become personal" and "create an emergency" (Jordan Belfort would be proud).

Tesla sells its vehicles directly to consumers online and through company-owned showrooms. The company has distinguished itself from other car vending machines by its electric model and its CEO (Elon Musk now has a single Soundcloud!), While ensuring that the purchase of a Tesla is a luxury experience. In its 2018 annual report, Tesla described its showrooms as "high-end, high-end retail outlets in major metropolitan markets." In early March, Tesla had decided to raise vehicle prices in order to keep some of these stores open.

In other words, one of the most important aspects of the Tesla brand is that it is not suspicious. That's why the relentless reports from online consumers are causing concern: they suggest that Tesla is willing to adopt the same sales tactics as any other car dealership.

Such tactics could boost Tesla's first-quarter sales and bring it closer to its second quarter profitability target. Tesla is also in the middle of a late-quarter delivery campaign – Musk on March 30 tweeted a photo Tesla semi-electric truck delivering Tesla cars – so some customers who reported delays could still get their model 3 at the end. The company is expected to announce the number of cars built and sold in the last quarter.

But the incentive and incentive sales tactics also risk angering customers, many of whom have already seen their confidence tested by multi-year expectations for Model 3 at $ 35,000. One of the last things Tesla needs right now is canceling order buyers and having trouble getting their money back.

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