This South American country is the first to sell Tesla

Tesla’s growth, currently sluggish, will rely on access to new markets. Opening up to South America is a priority.

Tesla is not yet a “mature” brand. By that, we mean that its presence is not yet universal worldwide. India, Africa, South America, many Asian countries—destinations still capable of absorbing huge quantities of cars—are numerous.

In a sense, this is good news for Tesla, whose global sales in the first quarter of 2024 recorded a decline of 8.5% compared to the same period in 2023. Tesla could not establish a presence in every corner of the world at once, and the historical difficulties faced in the United States, Europe, or China still apply in emerging countries: the charging network.

At the beginning of April 2024, Tesla is thus entering its first South American country: Chile. A country where the charging station network is still in its infancy. Customers will primarily need to recharge at home or at work (with the employer’s consent). Currently, the Tesla app does not list any charging stations in the country. But this opening will boost Tesla’s sales momentum.

Is Chile a pioneer in ecology?

Two Tesla models are affected by the Chilean market entry: Model 3 and Model Y, both manufactured in Shanghai, China. The local currency, the Chilean peso, has lost a lot of value in recent years due to the economic and health crisis. One euro is worth 1023 pesos, so the purchase price of a Tesla involves a lot of zeros…

For a Model 3, expect to pay 39,900,000 pesos, approximately 39,000 euros, which is actually very competitive from a European customer’s perspective. Less so locally. For a Model Y, the price jumps to 42,900,000 pesos, or about 41,900 euros.

In both cases, the standard color is white, which ensures the best range in this very hot country. Note that the Model Y is available in six colors, compared to five in Europe. The Stealth gray and Ultra Red options are offered. Like the Chinese versions, the plastic wheel covers are dark gray. Finally, the Long Range and Performance variants are also available.

The same applies to the Model 3, which also offers the Long Range version. If the customer places an order today, delivery is currently expected between June and July.

So, why choose Chile first to tackle this vast continent? Because it’s the most proactive regarding ecological transition. By 2040, 100% of public transportation will be electric, and the target of 40% of the car fleet is set for 2050. This push to switch to electric is supported by exemptions from registration and annual circulation taxes for purchases made before February 2025.

Furthermore, between March 2025 and February 2027, the cost of the annual circulation permit will be reduced by 25%, then 50% between March 2027 and February 2029, and 75% between March 2029 and February 2031.

It’s clear that Chile aims to quickly change mentalities and then revert to fiscal reason. Similar to Europe, where eco-bonuses have halved in France within a decade, or disappeared altogether as in Germany.

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