At Tesla, we are never immune to the sudden arrival of a new version. This is a bit less the case for the models because since the Model Y in 2020, apart from a restyling of the Model 3, there hasn’t been anything new. And the robotaxi, which was supposed to be presented in August, has been postponed to (at least) October. However, a few days ago, a new motorization on the Model 3 sedan was born: Long Range Rear Wheel Drive.
This novelty has a major advantage: its autonomy. Simply the best on the model. However, there is a major drawback: for now, it is only available in the American catalog. So, do we have a chance to see it land in our country someday?
Up to 700 km of autonomy
The new Tesla Model 3 Long Range Rear Wheel Drive is not the first of its kind. However, in terms of autonomy, it surpasses all previous Model 3s. It actually reaches nearly 700 km! In reality, in the American configurator, it is rated at 363 miles in the EPA cycle, which equates to 584 km in Europe. Compared to the 341 miles (548 km) of the Long Range version with all-wheel drive. So why talk about 700 km of autonomy when it doesn’t even reach 600 km on paper?
The reason is that the EPA approval cycle is very different from our WLTP. By comparing the EPA and WLTP autonomies of the Long Range All-Wheel Drive Model 3 sold in the USA and Europe, it can be estimated that the new version could offer 670 km of autonomy. Even more if it is considered, as frequently mentioned, that the consumption is 20% higher in EPA than in WLTP. So, it reaches exactly 700 km!
Not planned for Europe (yet)
If we don’t know much else about this Tesla Model 3 Long Range Rear Wheel Drive, it is estimated to have an 80 kWh battery. Beyond its unmatched autonomy at Tesla, its price is also very surprising: $29,990, which is $4,000 less than the basic Rear Wheel Drive version, with an EPA range of 437 km. Why? Simply because it is eligible for a $7,500 tax credit, unlike its lower-range sister.
Cheaper and with more autonomy, isn’t this the best Tesla Model 3? In any case, it would fit well in the French catalog! However, it is uncertain whether it will arrive here. The car is produced in the USA, while the Model 3s sold in Europe are Chinese, significantly reducing the chances of importing it. Even if it does arrive, it won’t be eligible for the bonus, as it is manufactured on the other side of the world, and may face additional customs duties if produced in China.
Furthermore, beyond the desirable features of this new Tesla Model 3, if it eventually arrives, it is highly recommended to compare its true autonomy with other electric cars to fully understand its benefits and specifications.