Tesla Sets Model S/X Order Deadline in South Korea As End of Production Nears

Tesla has begun a formal wind-down of its two flagship models. For the first time, the company has set a hard deadline for new Model S and Model X orders in South Korea, signaling that the end of production is approaching.

According to a report from Drive Tesla Canada, orders in the region will only be accepted until March 31, 2026. This is the first clear sign of how Tesla intends to phase out sales globally before production officially ends at the Fremont factory sometime in the next quarter.

An Honorable Discharge for the Flagships

The decision to discontinue the Model S and Model X was first disclosed by Tesla CEO Elon Musk during the company’s Q4 2025 earnings call. Musk described the move as an "honorable discharge," noting that while these vehicles proved EVs could be desirable, they no longer align with Tesla's high-volume, autonomy-focused future.

In late 2025, the combined sales for the Model S, Model X, Cybertruck, and Semi accounted for just 2.8% of Tesla's total volume. With demand falling and the vehicles recently losing their dedicated GPUs and internal storage capacity, the shift was anticipated. Tesla also needs floor space at Fremont to pivot toward its next major initiative: the Optimus humanoid robot.

The Model Y L: A New Flagship?

As the Model S and Model X phase out, a family-focused alternative is stepping in. The Model Y L — a longer-wheelbase, three-row, six-seat version of the best-selling SUV — has just been certified for sale in South Korea.

Previously limited to China, the variant has been expanding to international markets this month, including Australia, New Zealand, and Thailand. With a roomier 2-2-2 seating configuration and comfort-oriented suspension, the Model Y L effectively serves as a spiritual successor to the Model X for buyers seeking a premium family hauler without the "Falcon Wing" complexity.

What’s Next for Other Regions?

The South Korea cutoff likely reflects shipping logistics, as Tesla works to fulfill final orders before the Fremont lines stop at the end of Q2. It offers a preview of what may soon follow in North America and Europe. If you’ve been considering owning a piece of Tesla history, the window is closing quickly.

Tesla’s strategy is shifting toward a future centered on affordable autonomy and robotics. While it’s difficult to see the models that started it all depart, the company is focused on the "next big thing." Expect similar "Final Call" notices to appear in the Tesla app and order configurator for other regions over the coming weeks.