From the article:
“I would seriously consider an entry-level model with a cheaper, range-extended hybrid driveline”
This entry level car was a requirement under the original Obama loan agreement. Musk, right or wrong, paid off the loan well early and that requirement went out the door. Maybe they just can’t come up with a low car end car of any significant quality that wouldn’t tarnish the entire line. Sounds like they are having a hard enough problem with quality as is, Consumer Reports dumping on them last month didn’t help.
This is an example of ‘entry-level’
I fully expect this one to fall on its face for safety reasons. But the ‘Smart Car’ is still on the road, so who knows...