Tesla launches new lower cost Model 3: Details here
What's the story
Tesla has launched a new lower-cost variant of its famous mass-market car, the Model 3. The vehicle, which Elon Musk announced on Twitter, is a mid-ranged variant and not the $35,000 base model, which has been delayed until 2019. It costs $45,000 and comes with a single-motor rear-wheel drive option. The battery, range, and speed are different from the other variant. Here's more.
Changes
What are the changes in the mid-ranged Model 3?
The new $45,000 variant carries the same battery pack as the dual-motor variant, but with fewer cells, and hence it offers lower range. Essentially, instead of 500km, the new Model 3 variant can cover up to 420km on a single charge. Its top speed has gone down to 200kmph (from 233kmph), while 0-100kmph acceleration takes 5.6 seconds (4.5 seconds in long-range variants).
Quote
Statement from a Tesla spokesperson
"Our new mid-range battery is being introduced this week in the US and Canada to better meet the varying range needs of the many customers eager to own Model 3, and our delivery estimate for customers who have ordered the Standard Battery is 4-6 months".
Price details
How to get the best price?
If you're willing to shell money for the cheapest Model 3, pick the new 'Rear-wheel drive' in black (exterior and interior), and skip the enhanced autopilot option. The final price will be $45,000 and on taking delivery by the end of 2018, you'll get $7,500 tax credit. Also, if we consider gas savings for six years, the final cost would be $33,200.
Information
Model 3 color choices
Model 3 is available in black, midnight silver metallic, deep blue metallic, pearl white, and red, but going for any color other than black costs $1,500-2,500 more.
Cheapest variant
Standard $35,000 Model 3 also coming soon
While the introduction of a $45,000 variant gives an enhanced set of choices, it is worth noting the base Model 3, with a standard battery-pack, will start shipping after 4-6 months. However, it will be 2019 by that time and customers will only get $3,750 as Federal tax credit. Tesla recently sold 200,000 vehicles in the US, triggering a phase-out from the savings option.