For genetic engineering and gene editing research in potato there is a need for a model plant for breeding and functional analyses. Traits valuable as a model plant include homozygosity, self-fertility, ability to be transformed and production of tubers for analysis. The aim of this study was to evaluate existing diploid germplasm to identify new germplasm that could be used for functional analyses. A total of seven diploid lines were selected, including three self-fertile lines from Michigan State University’s breeding program, partial inbreds UW-W4, M6 and DMRH S5 28-5 and 1S1, lines with high regeneration ability from Virginia Tech. The most notable line, MSEE737-05 had a regeneration efficiency of 76% and 100% for internode and leaf explants, respectively, it produced significantly more viable fruit after self-pollination, with percent fruit set at 88% (LSD, α<0.05), and produced greenhouse tubers with an average weight of 51 grams and acceptable tuber appearance.