There’s no word on whether this new Model 3 variant will be offered in other markets outside of China
Tesla has just launched a new version of the Model 3 in China, and it has the longest driving range of any vehicle in the automaker’s lineup. The new model, previously referred to as the Model 3+, is now simply branded the Model 3 Long Range, offering an impressive CLTC range of up to 830 km or 516 miles.
Read: New Model 3+ Isn’t What You Think It Its. It’s Better
As you probably could have guessed, this isn’t a special version of the Model 3 built from the ground up. However, it is the first version in China to come standard with a 78.4 kWh NMC battery from LG, paired to an electric motor with 302 hp (225 kW). The regular Model 3 has a less powerful 260 hp (194 kW) motor.
Understanding the CLTC figures
It’s important to note that the CLTC, or China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle, is usually more generous than the WLTP cycle. This is because it’s designed to mimic driving in congested Chinese cities, meaning it includes more frequent stops and moments of deceleration where an EV can use regenerative braking.
We don’t know yet if Tesla has any plans to sell this Model 3 version elsewhere, but if it does, the range figure will inevitably drop.
Performance and pricing
It’s not just the driving range of the Model 3 Long Range that’s impressive. It can hit 100 km/h (62 mph) in a very respectable 5.2 seconds. It’s also been priced very competitively, starting at 269,500 yuan or roughly $37,500.
That’s roughly 14 percent more than the base Model 3 in China, which offers a 634 km (394 miles) range on the CLTC cycle. If only we could get a Model 3 with this much range, and for this price, here in the US.
Tesla likely launched this new version in China because that’s where it’s facing the fiercest competition. Last year, Xiaomi introduced its SU7, and in range-focused Pro guise, it has a CLTC range of 830 km (516 miles) too, but it does rely on a much larger 94.3 kWh battery pack.
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