Tesla is reportedly planning to commence the production of its next-generation electric vehicle, internally referred to as "Redwood," around the middle of 2025, according to a recent report.

Tesla, now firmly established as a mainstream automaker with the highly successful Model Y ranking among the world's top-selling vehicles, still lacks a contender in the affordable car segment. Despite the premium status of the Model 3 and Model Y, recent reports suggest that Tesla is gearing up to produce its next-generation electric vehicle, internally dubbed "Redwood," around mid-2025.

Sources familiar with the matter revealed that Tesla has notified its suppliers about plans to initiate production on a new platform, targeting a more cost-effective market. Referred to as "Redwood," this upcoming model is described by insiders as a compact crossover. Suppliers reportedly received "requests for quotes" from Tesla for the "Redwood" model last year.

Anticipated production for the affordable vehicle is set at approximately 10,000 units per week, signaling a significant yet achievable target due to expected advancements in Tesla's next-generation platform. Production is slated to commence around June 2025, with full-scale manufacturing likely kicking off in 2026, according to one source.

In preparation for the affordable vehicle, Tesla has reportedly engaged in industry-standard practices such as dismantling a Honda Civic to study conventional manufacturing techniques. It's worth noting that Tesla's next-generation vehicles are expected to embrace the company's distinctive unboxed manufacturing process.

The forthcoming affordable Tesla, projected to start at around $25,000, was mentioned in the biography of CEO Elon Musk by Walter Isaacson. Musk expressed enthusiasm during the company's annual shareholder meeting, claiming that the design and manufacturing innovations for the next-generation EVs would set new industry standards. He also hinted at a unique aspect of the production plan, with the affordable vehicle being built alongside a dedicated robotaxi designed exclusively for autonomous ride-hailing services.

--------The article excerpted from TESLARATI.