Tesla has officially announced the sunsetting of the Model S and Model X, marking the end of an era for these iconic vehicles. This decision comes just months after the company confirmed that production of these flagship models would cease in 2026. The Model S and Model X have played a significant role in establishing Tesla as a prominent automaker and disruptor in the car industry.
The Korean arm of the company has set a firm deadline of March 31, 2026, for new orders of the Model S and Model X, signaling the end of production for these models. This global deadline is a first for Tesla, and after this date, only existing inventory will be available in South Korea.
CEO Elon Musk has described the Model S and Model X as deserving an “honorable discharge” for their contributions to the company. The decision to phase out these vehicles is part of Tesla’s strategic shift towards high-volume manufacturing of the Optimus humanoid robot, with a production target of up to one million units per year.
Sales of the Model S and Model X have declined in recent years, with the two models accounting for only 3 percent of Tesla’s global deliveries in 2025. Competition in the luxury EV segment has intensified, with buyers increasingly opting for more affordable models like the Model 3 and Model Y. Despite their technological advancements and luxurious features, sales of the Model S and Model X have struggled to keep up with rivals in the market.
The phase-out of the Model S and Model X will allow Tesla to focus on autonomy, robotics, and higher-volume vehicles. The company’s Fremont factory will continue producing the refreshed Model 3 and Model Y while expanding into robotics. Tesla has assured that the shift will not result in job losses and could potentially increase headcount as Optimus production ramps up.
For Tesla enthusiasts, the sunset of the Model S and Model X represents a bittersweet moment. These vehicles have left a lasting impact on the EV market, proving that electric cars can compete with traditional luxury sedans. Owners can expect continued software support and service for their vehicles in the years to come.
While the Model S and Model X will soon be discontinued, Tesla’s focus now shifts to future products, particularly the Optimus robot. The decision to retire the S/X platform is in line with the company’s vision for innovation and growth in the automotive and robotics sectors.