Tesla has introduced the updated 2026 Model S and Model X to the Chinese market. However, there’s a catch: Chinese customers still can’t place factory orders. Instead, they’re limited to whatever inventory Tesla has already imported and listed as “brand new cars.”
Tesla previously stopped taking orders for its flagship sedan and SUV in China in April following escalating trade tensions between the United States and China. Because both models are built exclusively at Tesla’s Fremont factory in California, they fall directly into the crossfire of tariff retaliation between the two countries.
As a result, Tesla replaced the usual “Order Now” button on its Chinese website with “View Available Cars,” effectively blocking all custom configurations. That policy still stands today, even with the updated versions now appearing in limited supply.
According to Tesla China’s current listings, the updated Model S carries a CLTC range of 715 km and starts at ¥855,900 (C$169,700/US$120,400), while the Model X offers a CLTC range of 700 km and begins at ¥882,900 (C$175,100/US$124,200).
These pricing differences come down almost entirely to the ongoing tariff battle between China and the U.S.
The re-launch comes after Tesla rolled out refreshed versions of the Model S and X in the U.S. back in mid-June, followed by Canada a month later in July, and more recently across select European markets. These updated models brought subtle but meaningful improvements, including longer driving range, a quieter interior, and suspension refinements for improved ride comfort.
China isn’t the only market to lose full ordering access to these vehicles, either. Tesla also suspended Model S and X orders in Japan earlier this year, signaling that the issue isn’t isolated to one country, but tied to broader global trade dynamics.
