Tesla has recently made a significant move in China by filing for a new variant of the Model 3 sedan, which has the potential to become the company’s longest-range model yet. This new variant, known as the Model 3+, is equipped with a single motor and uses ternary lithium-ion batteries from LG Energy Solution. The combination of the single motor and advanced batteries is expected to enable the Model 3+ to achieve a range that surpasses the impressive 753 km offered by the current long-range all-wheel-drive version of the Model 3.
The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology in China has released a regulatory catalog for public comment, which includes the Model 3+. This filing marks a crucial step towards the approval of the vehicle for sale in China. The Model 3+ is designated with the product model number TSL7000BEVBR1 and features a peak motor power of 225 kW, higher than the existing single-motor variant.
The dimensions of the Model 3+ align with other variants of the Model 3, measuring 4,720 mm in length, 1,848 mm in width, and 1,442 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,875 mm. The curb weight of the Model 3+ is 1,760 kilograms, with a top speed of 200 kilometers per hour.
In terms of pricing, the Model 3 currently offers three variants in China, with starting prices ranging from RMB 235,500 to RMB 339,500. The Model 3 with the 753 km range is currently the longest-range model offered by Tesla. However, the new Model 3+ is anticipated to surpass this range due to its single motor configuration and the use of high-energy-density ternary batteries.
In June, Tesla’s Model 3 sales in China reached 16,636 units, representing a slight decrease compared to the previous year. Despite this, sales from January to June showed a significant year-on-year increase of 30.38 percent, totaling 91,919 units.
Overall, the introduction of the Model 3+ in China signifies Tesla’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in the electric vehicle market. With its potential to offer an extended range exceeding 800 kilometers, the Model 3+ is poised to set a new standard for electric vehicles in terms of performance and efficiency.
