The Model 3+, a new Model 3 variant that Tesla is getting ready to introduce in China, looks to be designed to have a greater range, probably around 800 km (500 miles).
The Tesla Model YL, a new six-seater version of the Model Y, was filed with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), as we reported.
We now know that Tesla has submitted a second new variation, this time for the Model 3, to MIIT.
A new Model 3+ has been filed for by Tesla. Despite being a single-motor rear-wheel drive, the new model has a larger 225 kW motor than the RWD model.
It has ternary lithium-ion battery cells from LG Energy Solutions in South Korea, as opposed to the current RWD variant’s LFP battery cells.
Because the batteries have a better energy density, the weight and size are the same.
Although range isn’t mentioned in the MIIT file, the name and all of the specifications suggest that the Model 3+ is designed to have a longer range.
In China, the three Tesla Model 3 models have respective ranges of 634, 753, and 623 kilometres. The CLTC driving cycle is the basis for those.
It is anticipated that the new Model 3+ will have a range of more than 800 km (500 miles).
It’s a much-needed improvement because many Chinese consumers have shifted to more expensive sedans with longer ranges, such as the Xiaomi SU7, which has a range of up to 830 km (516 miles).