Tesla has revealed a restyled version of the Model 3 with an extended driving range in China and other key markets, such as Europe, the Middle East, Australia, and Japan. This move puts pressure on competitors who are expected to unveil new electric vehicles in the coming days.
In China, the largest auto market globally, the refreshed Model 3 comes with a starting price that is 12% higher than the previous version. This marks a reversal of the trend of price cuts, which had sparked a price war between Tesla and its Chinese EV rivals.
The updated Model 3 is the first new or restyled car from Tesla since the launch of the Model Y in 2020. Tesla also plans to begin production of its Cybertruck later this year.
The Model 3’s rollout in China and other exported markets suggests that Tesla’s plant in Shanghai will be the first to manufacture the model. The company also produces the Model 3 at its plant in Fremont, California.
The new Model 3 boasts a longer driving range in China, with a rated range of 606 km (377 miles) based on China’s testing standards. This is approximately 9% higher than the previous base model.
Tesla has started accepting orders for the refreshed Model 3 in China, with deliveries scheduled for the fourth quarter. In Australia, deliveries are expected to begin in January.
In July, Tesla sold 64,285 electric vehicles in China, all made in the country. This figure represents a 31% decrease from the previous month, as reported by the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA).
The new Model 3 features improvements such as a better acoustic system, a more comfortable interior, and a display screen for back-seat passengers. Exterior images show minor changes that give the sedan a sleeker front and new headlights.
Tesla’s announcement precedes the Munich auto show, where German automakers are anticipated to launch a series of new EVs. This includes a new version of the Volkswagen ID.7 and an electric CLA model sedan from Mercedes.
Last November, Reuters reported that Tesla was working on a revamped version of the Model 3 under the codename “Highland.” The project aims to reduce production costs and enhance the model’s appeal.
The starting price for the new Model 3 in China is 259,900 yuan ($35,807.78), as indicated on the company’s website.