Tesla, Model 3

The Tesla Model 3 is a compact luxury sedan manufactured by Tesla, Inc. It was first unveiled in March 2016 and was initially available to order in July of that year. The Model 3 is positioned as a more affordable entry point into the Tesla lineup, slotting below the larger Model S and Model X in terms of size and price.

Design and Features

The Model 3 has a sleek and aerodynamic design, with a low drag coefficient of 0.23. It features a unique front fascia with a large grille-less design, flanked by slim LED headlights. The rear of the vehicle is characterized by a clean, rectangular shape with a diffuser-style element underneath. The overall length of the Model 3 is 184.8 inches (4,689 mm), and it has a wheelbase of 113.2 inches (2,874 mm).

Inside, the Model 3 boasts an upscale interior with premium materials such as leather, wood, or metal trim. The dashboard features a large horizontal screen that serves as both the primary display for navigation, entertainment, and controls, and also functions as the instrument cluster. This screen is supplemented by a smaller touchscreen on the center console.

Powertrain and Performance

The Model 3 is powered by three electric motor options:

• Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD): A single rear motor producing 258 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque.
• Long Range: Dual motors with 346 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, providing all-wheel drive capability.
• Performance: Dual motors with 450 horsepower and 471 lb-ft of torque, delivering enhanced acceleration and handling.

Battery and Range

The Model 3 has a range of up to 325 miles (523 km) on the Long Range variant, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The RWD model has an estimated range of 250 miles (402 km), while the Performance variant offers approximately 310 miles (500 km).

Safety Features

The Model 3 is equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, including:

• Autopilot: A semi-autonomous driving system that enables hands-free navigation and adaptive cruise control.
• Collision Avoidance System: Utilizes cameras and radar to detect potential hazards and automatically apply the brakes if necessary.
• Lane Departure Warning: Alerts the driver if they drift out of their lane without signaling.

Infotainment and Technology

The Model 3 features a range of connectivity options, including:

• Supercharger Network Access: Enables rapid charging to 80% capacity in just 45 minutes.
• Over-the-Air Software Updates: Allows Tesla to remotely update the vehicle's software and improve performance over time.

Pricing and Trim Levels

The base Model 3 RWD starts at around $35,000, while the Long Range model begins at approximately $44,990. The Performance variant is priced starting from about $56,990.

Overall, the Tesla Model 3 offers an attractive blend of style, performance, and sustainability, making it a compelling choice for those seeking an eco-friendly luxury sedan with advanced features and capabilities.