Tesla’s second best-selling car globally, the Model 3 electric sedan, got some much-needed cosmetic and mechanical upgrades back in August. It became more chiseled, got some aerodynamic oomph, and received a bunch of new features. Now the fun one, the Model 3 Performance, seems right around the corner with unique upgrades of its own.
Unsurprisingly, X (the social media channel formerly known as Twitter) users haven’t been able to hold their curiosity. One X user posted screenshots of a leaked document from the South Korean Ministry of Environment. The document, which InsideEVs cannot independently verify at this time, revealed the addition of a new 412 hp rear motor.
If this addition is indeed true, it could give the electric sedan a substantially big power boost. Some have also speculated the car could be renamed the Model 3 Ludicrous, but that also remains to be seen.
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The Tesla Model 3 got a big upgrade last year.
Tesla revamped its second-best-selling electric car last year. It gets slimmer headlamps, better sound insulation, improved efficiency, and a bunch of new features. But Tesla launched it in only RWD and Long Range AWD variants. The Model 3 Performance was missing. That is about to change.
The previous Model 3 Performance had a combined power output of about 505 hp. The leaked documents suggest that the new rear motor, labeled 4D2 (different from the Model S Plaid 5D2 rear motor), has been rated for 406 hp. Meanwhile, the front motor retains its 211 hp rating.
Enthusiasts quickly reacted by adding these numbers to conclude that the Model 3 Performance’s combined output would be 618 hp, a 113 hp boost over the prior model.
While the power boost could certainly be substantial, the combined power output isn’t just the sum of individual motor outputs. The motors could have a different transmission ratio, and the power distribution managed by the EV’s computers could be optimized differently. So take that exact power figure with a grain of salt for now.
A translated chart showing the Model 3 Performance’s updated specs.
The leaked document also indicates that the rear motor would reach peak power at a higher speed, 68 mph versus 47 mph previously, so expect more punch at the top end. Typically, electric cars have neck-snapping acceleration off the line. As you gain speed, the torque curve flattens, depending on the model.
Also impressive is the possibility of the weight being identical to the earlier Model 3 Performance. The EV tips the scale at 4089 pounds, the same as before. It could also get the same 82 kilowatt-hours of battery capacity, with a speculated range of around 267 miles. That’s apparently based on a stricter testing cycle—the EPA range will likely vary.
We might have the official details as early as tomorrow afternoon. Tesla’s Chief Designer Franz von Holzhausen and Vice President of Vehicle Engineering Lars Moravy will stream a live chat on the new Model 3 tomorrow at 5 p.m. ET (2 p.m. PT). Tesla’s livestream will also coincide with another big reveal tomorrow—the Rivian R2.
The ever-evolving world of electric vehicles has taken another exciting turn with the recent leak of documents suggesting that the Tesla Model 3 Performance may be receiving a significant power boost in its upcoming updates. The leaked documents indicate that the already impressive performance of the Model 3 may be further enhanced, making the vehicle even more formidable in the electric car market.
Tesla has been a pioneer in the development of electric vehicles, consistently pushing the boundaries of what is possible with electric technology. The Model 3 Performance, with its sleek design and impressive acceleration, has already won over many enthusiasts and critics alike. With news of a potential power increase, the Model 3 is set to become an even more attractive option for those looking for a high-performance electric vehicle.
While details of the power bump have yet to be confirmed by Tesla, the leaked documents suggest that the Model 3 Performance may receive a significant increase in horsepower and torque. This could result in improved acceleration and overall performance, further cementing the Model 3’s reputation as a top contender in the electric car market.
The leaked documents have sparked excitement and speculation among Tesla enthusiasts, who eagerly await official confirmation from the company. If the power bump is indeed implemented in the updated Model 3 Performance, it could give Tesla an edge over its competitors and solidify its position as a leader in the electric vehicle industry.
As Tesla continues to innovate and push the boundaries of electric vehicle technology, the leaked documents hint at even greater advancements to come. The upgraded Model 3 Performance promises to be a thrilling addition to Tesla’s lineup, offering enhanced performance and driving experience for electric car enthusiasts. With the electric vehicle market rapidly expanding, the updated Model 3 Performance may prove to be a game-changer for Tesla and further solidify its position as a driving force in the future of transportation.