Tesla introduces a new Model 3 version in China, offering a travel distance of up to 830 kilometers.
New Tesla Model 3 Long Range Launched in China
Tesla has launched a new variant of the Model 3 in China, the Model 3 Long Range (LR RWD), also known as the Model 3+. This single-motor, long-range rear-wheel-drive model boasts a CLTC-rated driving range of up to 830 km (515 miles), making it the longest-range Tesla model to date.
The new Model 3 variant is powered by a 78.4 kWh Nickel-Cobalt-Manganese (NCM) battery pack supplied by LG Energy Solutions, a significant upgrade from the smaller 62.5 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery used in the base RWD Model 3. The motor power is also increased to 225 kW (about 302 hp), enabling improved acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in around 5.2 seconds.
The Model 3 Long Range variant is priced at 269,500 yuan (approximately RM159k or AUD 57,700), positioning it between the base RWD model priced at 235,500 yuan and the Long Range AWD at 285,500 yuan. This reflects a moderate price increase from the base RWD, reflecting the enhanced range and performance, but it remains below the top-spec Performance AWD variant, which is priced at 339,500 yuan.
Tesla is offering incentives to boost sales in China, including 0% interest for five years, insurance subsidies (~AUD 1,700), charging incentives, and temporary free transfers of Enhanced Autopilot features. However, these incentives do not apply to the highest-priced performance version of the Model 3 sedan.
In the competitive Chinese market, Tesla faces pressure from domestic rivals such as NIO, Xiaomi, and BYD, which offer competitive pricing, innovations like battery-as-a-service (BaaS), 800V fast charging or battery swapping, and generally higher consumer satisfaction scores. For example, local competitors like the Xiaomi SU7 Max are priced between 215,900 and 299,900 yuan, while BYD leads mass-market segments with very high satisfaction scores.
The regulatory filing for the Model Y L, a six-seat family SUV with a 751 km range and pricing around 300,000 yuan, was made last week. The new Model 3 variant is expected to be delivered in China in September, while the Model Y L is set to launch this fall.
| Feature | Tesla Model 3 Long Range (China) | Competitors / Market Context | |-----------------------------|--------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------| | Battery & Capacity | 78.4 kWh NCM battery (LG Energy) | Mixture of LFP and ternary lithium in others | | Range (CLTC) | Up to 830 km (~700 km WLTP) | Competitors like Xiaomi & BYD offer competitive ranges | | Motor Power & Acceleration | 225 kW motor, 0-100 km/h in 5.2 seconds | Competitors emphasize fast charging & battery swap | | Price | 269,500 yuan (~$41,800–57,700 AUD) | Xiaomi SU7 Max: 215,900–299,900 yuan; Model Y L: 300,000 yuan | | Sales incentives | 5 years 0% interest, insurance & charging subsidies, EAP transfer | Local brands offer innovative service models |
The new Model 3 variant represents Tesla’s efforts to maintain its position in the Chinese market, where sales have been declining for the Model Y. Despite these challenges, Tesla continues to innovate and introduce new variants, such as the Model 3+ and the upcoming Model Y L, to meet the demands of the competitive market.
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