The Tesla Model S and Model X won’t be returning to Australia after all.

    In emails to customers shared on the Tesla Model 3 & Y Australia and Tesla Owners Australia groups on Facebook, Tesla has confirmed its updated flagship models won’t be launched locally.

    That’s despite the vehicles having not only been sold here in pre-update guise, but also being confirmed and priced in updated guise back in 2021.

    Prices were subsequently removed from the local site early in 2022, and then the option to reserve one was removed earlier this year.

    “Due to recent changes to the vehicle program, [Model X and Model S] will not be available in Right Hand Drive,” the email says.

    “Unfortunately this means your order is unable to be fulfilled and will be cancelled. You will receive a full refund for any payments made.

    “We understand that this may be disappointing news to receive and want to apologise for any inconvenience caused.”

    The email goes on to say emails are forthcoming with details on refunds, while also pledging a $3000 credit to a new Model 3 or Model Y order.

    The credits are limited to one per cancelled order and are only valid for orders placed prior to October 31, 2023.

    The Model S and Model X have been confirmed to return to Europe and China, however Tesla’s UK site also confirms the models are left-hand drive only.

    With their recent facelifts, both models gained a new tri-motor Plaid performance flagship, as well as an overhauled interior with a new landscape-oriented infotainment touchscreen and a steering yoke.

    MORE: Everything Tesla Model S
    MORE: Everything Tesla Model X

    William Stopford

    William Stopford is an automotive journalist based in Brisbane, Australia. William is a Business/Journalism graduate from the Queensland University of Technology who loves to travel, briefly lived in the US, and has a particular interest in the American car industry.

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