The Tesla Model S has earned its place as one of TIME Magazine’s Best Inventions of the 2000s, a recognition that highlights its significant impact on the automotive world. What’s fascinating is that it follows in the footsteps of its sibling, the Model 3, which secured a spot on the list back in 2017.
But here’s where it gets truly captivating: The Model S didn’t just enter the market as another electric vehicle; it reshaped the entire industry much like the Ford Model T did back in the early 20th century. Just as the Model T transitioned society from horse-drawn carriages to combustion engines, the Model S revolutionized transportation by making electric vehicles desirable, practical, and mainstream.
Although not the very first electric car, Tesla’s Model S was undeniably the EV that caught the public’s eye and put electric mobility on the map. When TIME spotlighted it in 2012, they praised it not only for its sleek design reminiscent of a Jaguar but also for its impressive 265-mile range per charge—equivalent to an incredible 89 miles per gallon in gas terms—and its futuristic touchscreen technology that controlled everything from navigation to suspension.
Looking back, this recognition was justified. The Model S, accompanied by Tesla’s original 2008 Roadster, were pioneers in pushing electric vehicles from novelty status into the consciousness of everyday drivers. TIME called the Model S a “game-changer,” and it truly jumpstarted not only the EV market but Tesla’s own rise.
This vehicle also served as a financial and technological foundation for Tesla, enabling the development of the Model X and paving the way for the more affordable Model 3 and Model Y to reach wider audiences. Without the Model S and Model X, Tesla might not have been able to offer the price points that helped transform EV adoption into what it is today.
Tesla Model S Today
In the current Tesla lineup, the Model S represents only a small slice of total sales, as it’s grouped with the Model X and Cybertruck in quarterly reporting. In 2024, Tesla delivered roughly 1.789 million cars, but this trio combined only accounted for 85,133 units.
Tesla hinted at a refresh for Model S and X earlier this year, hoping to reinvigorate interest, but the updates were underwhelming and largely cosmetic. Industry insiders, including Lucid’s CEO, have openly criticized Model S for seemingly stagnating over 12 years without major advancements. Rumors suggest Tesla might phase these two models out, though no official decision has been made. Elon Musk himself once mentioned that production of these cars continues partly for sentimental reasons.
The Cybercab: Tesla’s Next Leap
In a different part of Tesla’s ambitious roadmap, the Cybercab—a futuristic robotaxi—has recently been spotted on Tesla’s Fremont Test Track for the very first time, signaling a major milestone toward production. This comes just a year after its debut at Tesla’s "We, Robot" event in Los Angeles.
The move to test vehicles on Tesla’s Fremont track typically means serious development progress. With production targeted for early 2026, sightings hint the project is moving beyond engineering and into final phases. Crash testing has even begun at Tesla’s Gigafactory in Texas, underscoring preparations for mass production.
Tesla’s history shows a pattern: the Model Y appeared on the Fremont Test Track in December 2019 and launched just a month later; the Cybertruck followed a similar timeline. The Cybercab now joins this trajectory, raising expectations that it might soon become an integral part of Tesla’s Robotaxi program, potentially serving markets in Texas and California.
Would the Cybercab revolutionize ride-hailing by operating without human safety drivers? That’s the million-dollar question, setting up a potentially disruptive future for mobility.
Chevy’s Affordable EV Challenge
The battle for affordable electric vehicles just got heated. While Tesla recently introduced "Standard" trims of its Model 3 and Model Y priced at around $37,000 to $40,000, many fans think these prices still don’t hit the truly affordable mark. Tesla’s strategy seems reliant on future efficiencies, such as its “unboxed process,” to eventually produce models under $30,000.
Enter Chevrolet, which has launched its second-generation Bolt EV starting at a much friendlier $28,995. This compact EV offers a 65 kWh battery, roughly 255 miles of range, and features like Tesla Supercharger compatibility without adapters—a notable advantage.
The Bolt also supports fast charging (10-80% in about 26 minutes), offers bidirectional power capabilities, and includes Chevy’s SuperCruise driver-assist tech. Though it lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the Bolt’s specs are impressive for its price.
In comparison, other affordable EV options like the Nissan Leaf S, Mini Cooper SE, and Fiat 500e offer ranges between 114 to 149 miles, less than the Bolt, making Chevrolet’s offering more competitive for budget-conscious drivers.
This sparks a debate: Will budget-conscious first-time EV buyers prioritize outright price over brand prestige, or will Tesla’s name continue to dominate despite higher costs? Are EV manufacturers truly catering to all segments of the market, or is there a gap between brand aspirations and consumer affordability?
Tesla’s Stock: Analysts Expecting a Rally
Tesla’s business momentum lately has stirred Wall Street optimism. After posting record deliveries in Q3 and releasing a highly advanced version of its Full Self-Driving software, many analysts have raised their price targets for Tesla’s stock.
TD Cowen boosted their target from $374 to $509, citing strong delivery results and Tesla’s ability to retain Elon Musk through lucrative compensation packages that could potentially make him the world’s first trillionaire if Tesla continues growing.
Stifel raised its target from $440 to $483, impressed by the latest advances in Tesla’s Full Self-Driving tech and the promise of Robotaxi capabilities. They envision Tesla not just as an automaker but as a leading player in artificial intelligence.
On the other hand, UBS remains cautious with a 'Sell' rating, raising only its price target modestly from $215 to $247. They highlight the Q4 delivery uncertainties and broader market risks, signaling that not everyone is convinced Tesla’s upward trajectory is unstoppable.
In just the past month, Tesla’s shares have surged 24%, but whether this momentum will sustain is a matter open for debate.
