Tesla has abandoned its trademark for the Model E name, which was rumored to be the brand's new smaller sedan that would slot in below the existing Tesla Model S. This new model was previously expected to follow soon after the Tesla Model X crossover which is set to debut this year.

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This name change makes us question whether this timeline is still in play, as we previously reported that the Tesla Model X will go into production this year, with a concept version of the Model E to debut at the 2015 Detroit auto show. However, we still have not seen a production version of the Model X, and the trademark release could mean that that the smaller Tesla's launch is pushed back until later next year. Possibly, Tesla has chosen a name other than Model E for its new sedan.

While the Tesla Model S sedan is a larger luxury car in the same size and price ballpark as flagship luxury sedans like the Audi A8 and BMW 7 Series, Tesla's upcoming smaller model is anticipated to compete with entry level luxury sedans like the Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series. This should mean a price between $30,000 and $40,000, and we've previously heard that the smaller Tesla would offer a range of approximately 200 miles on a charge. The Tesla Model X will be the brand's crossover model, with seven seats and a unique gullwing door design that makes for easier access to the cabin. While the Model X will ride on an extended version of the existing Model S architecture, the new smaller Tesla sedan is expected to debut a new platform for the company.

Stay tuned for more news from Tesla as we find out more about the company's future product plans, including the new name for the smaller sedan model and a more detailed timeline for the Model X's launch.