Tesla, the leading electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, introduced an upgraded Model 3 with an extended driving range for markets in China, Europe, the Middle East, Australia, and Japan on Friday. This move intensifies competition among automakers who are poised to announce their own new electric vehicle offerings in the coming days.
In China, the world’s largest automobile market, the refreshed Model 3 comes with a starting price that is 12% higher than its predecessor, the base rear-wheel drive model. This pricing adjustment marks a departure from Tesla’s previous strategy of reducing prices, which had ignited a price war with Chinese EV competitors.
The updated Model 3 represents Tesla’s first newly designed or restyled vehicle since the successful launch of the Model Y in 2020. The company also has plans to commence production of its Cybertruck later this year.
The decision to unveil the enhanced Model 3 in China, along with other export markets served by Tesla’s Shanghai manufacturing facility, suggests that the Shanghai plant will be the first to produce this model. Tesla currently manufactures the Model 3 at its Fremont, California plant.
According to information on Tesla’s official website, the new Model 3 offers an extended driving range for the Chinese market. The standard version boasts a rated range of 606 kilometers (377 miles), based on China’s testing standards. This represents a 9% increase in range compared to the base model it replaces in China.
Tesla has already initiated order placement for the new Model 3 and anticipates commencing deliveries in China during the fourth quarter. In Australia, deliveries are scheduled to begin in January.
Recent data from the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA) indicated that Tesla sold 64,285 electric vehicles produced in China during July, reflecting a 31% decline from the previous month.
In a statement released by Tesla’s China operations, the company highlighted several improvements in the new Model 3, including an enhanced acoustic system, improved interior comfort, and a display screen for rear-seat passengers. Exterior images also reveal subtle changes, lending the sedan a sleeker front profile and updated headlights.
Tesla’s announcement comes just ahead of the Munich auto show, where leading German automakers are expected to unveil a series of new electric vehicles. Among these releases are a fresh iteration of the Volkswagen ID.7 and a new electric CLA model sedan from Mercedes.
In China, the new Model 3 starts at 259,900 yuan ($35,807.78), as indicated on the company’s website.
