A new Tesla Model 3 has rolled off the line in China, and it is advertised with an impressive driving range of 830km. Specifically, this is the new long-range RWD Model 3, which sits alongside an AWD variant that also boasts an improved range of 753km. The performance and standard RWD Model 3 variants also pack longer ranges, but it should be noted that these figures are measured in CLTC, and not in standard WLTP—take these with a grain of salt.
For context, the long-range AWD variant of the Model 3 available in the Philippines can drive up to 629km on a full charge, while the long-range RWD version is not sold locally. The performance AWD touts a shorter, but peppier 528km, but in China, it now features 647km.
The chances of these extended, long-range Model 3s coming to the local market are not likely, but also not impossible. After all, the Tesla units in the Philippines are built at the brand’s Shanghai Gigafactory.
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While the exterior and interior of the new Model 3 remain unchanged, Tesla China claims that choosing the smaller 18-inch wheels can add 15-30km of range. Although smaller wheels typically improve efficiency, the local Tesla website lists the same estimated range for both the 18- and 19-inch wheel options.
After debuting with the Model 3 and Model Y last November, Tesla Philippines brought in the facelifted Model Y Launch Series just a few months later. The brand is off to a strong start with just under 1,500 units sold in the first half of the year. This could prompt Tesla’s head offices to bring in higher variants, or even more models, as its customer base continues to grow.
