# Tesla is Killing Off the Model S and Model X: End of an Era as Autonomy Takes Over
Tesla’s iconic **Model S** and **Model X** are officially on their way out. CEO Elon Musk announced during the Q4 2025 earnings call that production of these flagship vehicles will end by the close of Q2 2026, freeing up factory space for humanoid robot manufacturing.[1][2][3]
## A Long-Declining Legacy
The Model S, launched in 2012, and the Model X, which hit roads in 2015, put Tesla on the map as a premium electric vehicle maker. These cars proved EVs could be desirable luxury rides, not just eco-friendly commuters. They won over early adopters, racked up awards, and funded the development of mass-market hits like the Model 3 and Model Y.[1]
But sales have cratered. Tesla stopped reporting Model S/X figures separately in 2023, bundling them into an “other models” category with Cybertruck and Semi. Estimates show deliveries plummeting over 30% year-over-year by late 2024, dipping below 50,000 units globally. For FY 2025, “other models” totaled just 50,850 units—including Cybertruck and Semi—meaning actual S/X volume was likely around 30,000.[1]
Here’s a breakdown of recent “other models” deliveries, highlighting the slide:
| Period | Deliveries |
|———-|————|
| Q4 2024 | 23,640 |
| Q1 2025 | 12,881 |
| Q2 2025 | 10,394 |
| Q3 2025 | 15,933 |
| Q4 2025 | 11,642 |
| FY 2025 | 50,850[1] |
Fremont factory capacity sits at 100,000 units annually for these models, but utilization has been a fraction of that for years.[1] Competitors like Lucid Air (eclipsing Model S performance) and Rivian R1S (outpacing Model X) have eroded their edge.[1]
## The “Refresh” That Signaled Goodbye
In June 2025—mere months before the kill announcement—Tesla rolled out updates billed as a refresh. Changes? A new paint color, front bumper camera, minor range bumps, and ambient lighting already standard on cheaper models. Oh, and a $5,000 price hike, pushing base Model S to $84,990 and Model X to $89,990 (prices later climbed to $94,990/$99,990).[1][2]
Critics called it an afterthought, lacking steer-by-wire, 48-volt architecture, or Cybertruck-level innovations like advanced suspension and noise cancellation.[1][2] Tesla VP Lars Moravy had promised “some love,” but it felt more like a farewell lap for aging platforms over a decade old.[1]
## Autonomy and Optimus: The Real Reason
Musk pinned the discontinuation on **autonomy**, declaring it’s time for an “honorable discharge” as Tesla pivots to a driverless future.[1][2] Both models already pack the same Level 2 hardware as the rest of the lineup, so the logic puzzled some—until he revealed the replacement.
Fremont’s Model S/X lines will convert to produce **Optimus**, Tesla’s humanoid robot. The goal: one million units yearly long-term. Musk noted the shift is “slightly sad” but essential, with ongoing support promised for existing S/X owners. He urged buyers: “Now would be the time to order it.”[1][2][4]
No successors announced. Tesla’s focus has squarely shifted to high-volume vehicles and autonomy plays like robotaxis and robots.[1][4]
## What This Means for Tesla Fans and the EV World
This marks the end of Tesla’s origin story. Model S sedan prototype debuted in 2009; it redefined luxury EVs with blistering acceleration and over-the-air updates. Model X followed with falcon-wing doors and family-hauling prowess.[1][2]
They forced legacy automakers to electrify seriously. Yet Tesla neglected them amid Model 3/Y dominance (now over 90% of sales). Low volumes didn’t justify the hassle, especially with robots promising bigger bets.[1]
Stock reaction? Positive—Tesla beat Q4 earnings and revealed $2 billion xAI investment, plus third-gen Optimus this quarter.[2]
For enthusiasts, it’s bittersweet. RIP Model S (2012-2026) and Model X (2015-2026).[1] Will Cybertruck follow as volumes stabilize? Speculation swirls on forums.[3]
## Should You Buy One Now?
If you’re eyeing a Plaid variant ($109,990 S, $114,990 X), act fast. Post-Q2 2026, new units vanish, though used/resale markets will thrive with Tesla’s service commitment.[2] These remain quick, spacious EVs—just outdated in a world chasing 48V systems and full self-driving.
Tesla’s robotaxi event looms, but killing flagships underscores the pivot: from cars to autonomy empires. Optimus could dwarf auto revenue if it scales. For now, the S and X bow out as pioneers, not also-rans.
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Original source: TechCrunch – Tesla is killing off the Model S and Model X
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