Tesla reveal new mid-size challenger in Model 3
Tesla and company figurehead Elon Musk have revealed the clean look to their new Model 3 platform. It's also been confirmed that it will be sold in New Zealand, though right-hand drive examples will be the last to roll off the production line.
“Model 3 reservations will open today in NZ,” Tesla's Heath Walker told Driven.
“The Model 3 does not go into production until 2017, and right hand drive will be the last to go into production.”
Sporting a slick look inside and out, and priced at USD35,000 (just over NZD50,000), the Model 3 shapes up as the company's biggest tilt at the mainstream car-buying market.
While unveiling the car, Musk said that the car will be capable of a 0-100km/h time of less than six seconds, with room for multiple versions capable of quicker speeds.
The car will also come with autopilot as standard, and an ability to travel 215 miles (346 kilometres) per charge.
Musk was quick to link the importance of the Tesla brand to global warming — noting Tesla's cars as a potential solution to the problem.
“This is really important for the future of the world,” said Musk.
The Model 3 is the marque's fourth entry into the electric car game, following the Roadster, the Model S, and the recently unveiled Model X. Musk noted that the four cars formed Tesla's “secret master plan”, to go from low-volume, high-price vehicles to high-volume vehicles aimed at a mainstream audience.
Musk also took the opportunity to announce his brand's further growth, in both the US and overseas — noting intentions to double their amount of world locations to 441, double their amount of supercharger and destination charger units to 7000 and 15000; all in the next 12 months. In addition, Tesla will shift their battery production operations to what the company have called their 'Gigafactory'.
While delivery time wasn't specified, Musk was “fairly confident” that they would commence next year.